CP State(d)

About CP State(d)

CP State(d) brings you real conversations from the front lines of New York’s disability services field. Hear from professionals, advocates, and leaders about what drives them, what challenges they face, and where the field is headed. From funding to frontline stories, CP State(d) connects you to the people powering progress. Subscribe and stay CP State(d).

Publisher

CP State

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

3 Jun 2025

Latest episode

7 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Oct 2026

   Building the Future Together: CP State, Affiliate Impact, and 80 Years of Advocacy

   How do state associations and local agencies work together to drive real progress for individuals with disabilities? In this episode of CP State(d), host Laura Beth Malkowski (Vice President of Day Services at Aspire of WNY and CP State Emerging Leader Member) sits down with Mike Alvaro (CP State President & CEO) and Renee Filip (Aspire of WNY President & CEO and CP State Board Member). Together, they reflect on CP State’s 80th anniversary milestone, discuss the power of affiliate collaboration, and explore what’s next for advocacy, education, and human service agencies across New York State.

2. 

   8 Sept 2026

   Seeing the Right Side with Derrick Tennant

   In this episode, Tim Ferguson, Director of Partnerships and Training and Kelsey Massyk, Communications Specialist at CP State, sits down with the keynote speaker of the CP State 80th Anniversary Annual Conference, Derrick Tennant. Derrick is an inspirational speaker and a comedian, among many other talents. When a brain injury rendered him paralyzed on the left side, Derrick Tennant had every reason to give up. Instead, he chose to rise — seeing the RIGHT side, even when life went left.

3. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Innovation in Accessibility: The Future of Adaptive Design

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progressfor individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In this episode, Layla Hazlett, Director and Clinical Coordinator of Adult Services at Pathfinder Village, sits down with Connor McGough from Arise Adaptive Design in Syracuse, New York. Arise Adaptive Design is a community-based organization that creates custom, low-cost equipment to meet the specificfunctional needs of individuals with disabilities. As an Occupational Therapist, Layla is passionate about the intersection of clinical research and functional independence. Joining her is Connor, whose work at Arise proves that the most impactful assistive technology doesn't always come from a catalog. Together, they discuss the art of "Adaptive Design"—the process of building custom, low-cost, and highly effective equipment to ensure that every individual has the physical access they need to participate fully in theircommunity and workplace. We hope you enjoy this look at how custom adaptive design and clinical expertise can work hand-in-hand to remove physical barriers and foster true independence. Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and several other platforms. We have a full slate of new and exciting topics coming your way as we continue to explore the cutting edge of the disability service field. From all of us at CP State(d), thank you for listening, and we look forward to having you with us next time!

4. 

   18 Feb 2026

   GameU: STEAM Education & Gaming Development in the I/DD field (Video)

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are excited to continue our tech series, kicking off 2026, where CP State(d) discovers how technology and innovation are enhancing the lives of the I/DD community. In this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker sits down with three members of GameU, an organization that takes virtual learning to a whole new level! Their STEAM-based curriculum was developed by gaming & technology professionals and designed to turn your student’s screen time into valuable skills that are productive and meaningful, all from the comfort of home. GameU is committed to an inclusive model that also focuses on empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the high-tech space. Brianne chats with Brett Winters, Director of Enrollment Services; Susan Kittle, Lead Generation Specialist and Adam Coleman, Senior Instructor/Trial Team Manager. They focus on the mission and approach of GameU, including their core offerings, the role of STEAM education and the impact made in the community by connecting technology and inclusion. Interested in GameU? Visit game-u.com (https://www.game-u.com/). Workshops and Game Nights and other curriculum-based programming is available for all ability levels and interests. Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. Our Tech Series continues in the weeks to come, as well as more new and exciting topics to be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.

5. 

   18 Feb 2026

   GameU: STEAM Education & Gaming Development in the I/DD field

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explorethe people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are excited to continue our tech series, kicking off 2026, where CP State(d) discovers how technology and innovation are enhancing the lives of the I/DD community. In this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker sits downwith three members of GameU, an organization that takes virtual learning to a whole new level! Their STEAM-based curriculum was developed by gaming & technology professionals and designed to turn your student’s screen time into valuable skills that are productive and meaningful, all from the comfort of home. GameU is committed to an inclusive model that also focuses on empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the high-tech space. Brianne chats with Brett Winters, Director of EnrollmentServices; Susan Kittle, Lead Generation Specialist and Adam Coleman, Senior Instructor/Trial Team Manager. They focus on the mission and approach of GameU, including their core offerings, the role of STEAM education and the impact made in the community by connecting technology and inclusion. Interested in GameU? Visit game-u.com (https://www.game-u.com/). Workshops and Game Nights and other curriculum-based programming is available for all ability levels and interests. Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. Our Tech Series continues in the weeks to come, as well as more new and exciting topics to be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.

6. 

   6 Jan 2026

   Leveling the Playing Field: Gaming, Accessibility, and Inclusion with SpecialEffect

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas, and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. On this episode, titled "Leveling the Playing Field: Gaming, Accessibility, and Inclusion with SpecialEffect," CP State Communications & Operations Specialist, Kelsey Massyk, sits down with Jacob Holden, an Occupational Therapist from SpecialEffect, a UK-based organization that uses innovative technology to help people with physical challenges control video games, aiming for greater inclusion and quality of life. We discuss how SpecialEffect provides individualized setups, using tools like the Xbox Adaptive Controller, to help players with physical disabilities access video games for leisure and fun, advocating for accessible design in the gaming industry. SpecialEffect is 100% reliant on donations and runs events like Game Blast every February. They also offer support worldwide, even if they don't send equipment outside the UK. You can learn more by visiting their website, specialeffect.org.uk , and check out their resources on accessible equipment and games at their other website, Game Access, at gameaccess.info Don't forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and most other major podcast platforms. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.

7. 

   19 Dec 2025

   SUNY Microcredentials for NYS Direct Support Professionals

   Happy Holidays and welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas andinnovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In this episode, Laura Beth Malkowski from Aspire of Western New York and Nichole Belonge from CP North Country sit down with Kathleen Dowd, MSW Professor of Human Services, Human Services Department Chair at North Country Community College. NCCC offers several micro-credentialing programs, notably inDirect Support Professional (DSP) fields (Levels I, II, III) for working with individuals with developmental disabilities, funded by SUNY/OPWDD, offering stipends and pathways to national certification and degrees. Thank you for tuning into this episode of CP State(d). We hope you enjoyed learning about the value of micro-credentialing programs for career advancement of Direct Support Professionals. Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube and several other noted platforms. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field. From all of us at CP State(d), we wish you a healthy and successful New Year!

8. 

   24 Nov 2025

   Radiant Abilities: Empowering Self-Esteem in Dating and Sexuality - Part 2

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. We are happy to have you joining us for Part 2 of our interview with Kathy O’Connell. Brianne and Laura Beth will continue to explore The Confidence Gap in Dating, Disclosure & Dating Visibility, Debunking Sexual Ableism & Media Myths and Empowering self- Advocacy in Individuals. The team will also touch on ways to connect with Kathy at Radiant Abilities. Thank you for tuning into Part 2 of our conversation with Kathy O’Connell. Don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.

9. 

   24 Nov 2025

   Radiant Abilities: Empowering Self-Esteem in Dating and Sexuality - Part 1

   Welcome back to CP State(d), the podcast where we explore the people, ideas and innovations powering progress for individuals with disabilities in New York State and beyond. In Part 1 of this episode, Brianne Flewelling from Racker and Laura Beth Malkowski from Aspire of Western New York have a conversation with Kathy’ O’Connell, the leader of Radiant Abilities and organization based in Syracuse, N.Y. Radiant Abilities is devoted to increased self-esteem, confidence, and empowerment for people in dating, relationships, and sexuality, particularly folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For more information, please visit radiantabilities.com Please listen to Part 2 of our interview and don’t forget to catch all the CP State(d) and CP Short State(d) episodes on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. New and exciting topics will be shared in both audio and video formats as we continue to explore the disability service field.

10. 

    21 Oct 2025

    CP State(d) Live at the 2025 Annual Conference

    Welcome to a special live edition of CP State(d) — recorded at the 2025 CP State Annual Conference in Saratoga Springs! This year’s theme, Powering Progress, is all about innovation, leadership, and the people driving the future of services for New Yorkers with disabilities. In this episode, we’re spotlighting the Emerging Leaders Committee — a dynamic group of professionals from CP State Affiliates across the state who are shaping the next generation of leadership in our field. Joining us for this conversation are: Nichole Belonge, Director of OPWDD Services at the Cerebral Palsy Association of the North Country Brianne Flewelling, Senior Team Director at Racker Laura Beth Malkowski, Vice President of Day Services at Aspire of WNY Donovan R. McKenzie, Sr., MSA, Senior Coordinator of Operations at ADAPT Community Network Together, they’ll share what inspired them to step into leadership, how they’re fostering growth and innovation across their agencies, and how emerging leaders can influence systems change statewide. We’ll also explore the committee’s two major initiatives — a supervisor training series designed to strengthen the workforce and this very podcast, CP State(d) — which gives a platform to fresh voices in the disability field. So, get ready to hear from four leaders who are not just imagining the future — they’re Powering Progress right now.

11. 

    17 Sept 2025

    Building Digital Resiliency in Nonprofits

    How can nonprofits build digital resiliency in a rapidly changing world? In this episode of CP State(d), CP State Technology Specialist Kelsey Massyk interviews Adam Eads, Senior Program Manager at TechSoup, about cybersecurity, technology literacy, and creating a culture that embraces innovation. Together, they explore how nonprofits can protect themselves from emerging threats, overcome barriers to tech adoption, and build the confidence needed to integrate new tools effectively. Whether you’re just starting your digital journey or looking to elevate your organization’s practices, this episode offers actionable insights to keep your mission secure and sustainable.

12. 

    5 Sept 2025

    Human Connection in a Digital Age

    In this episode of CP State(d), we preview the keynote address from communication expert and author Tim David at the CP State Annual Conference (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-cp-state-annual-conference-powering-progress-tickets-1264324341139?aff=oddtdtcreator) on October 9. Tim shares why strong human connection is a learned skill -not an innate gift - and how it can transform leadership, teamwork, and the quality of our lives. From the science behind his bestselling books to practical takeaways for everyday interactions, this conversation offers a taste of what’s in store at the conference. Learn more about Tim at https://www.timdavidspeaks.com/ (https://www.timdavidspeaks.com/).

13. 

    25 Aug 2025

    Building Opportunities: Jawonio’s Brick It Again and Brick-A-Palooza

    In this episode of CP State(d), we sit down with Sara Trowers from Jawonio to talk about Brick It Again,  an innovative LEGO resale shop that provides job training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Sara shares the story behind the program, how it’s grown,and the impact it’s having on both the community and the individuals it supports. We’ll also look ahead to Brick-A-Palooza (https://brickitagain.org/pages/brickapalooza), an exciting event happening on September 20 that brings LEGO fans of all ages together to celebratecreativity, inclusion, and possibility. Whether you’re passionate about employment opportunities, creative programming, or just love LEGOs, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical ideas.

14. 

    8 Aug 2025

    Breaking Barriers in Disability Healthcare

    Dr. Maria Kansas Devine, Chief Medical Officer at theCenter for Disability Services, joins CP State(d) to discuss what it takes to deliver better medical care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. From expanding telehealth options and addressing unconscious biases, to empowering patients and families through advocacy, Dr. Kansas shares actionable strategies for creating more equitable and effective healthcareexperiences. Whether you’re a clinician, caregiver, or advocate, thisconversation offers valuable insight into making care more person-centered, accessible, and respectful.

15. 

    23 Jul 2025

    Diabetes in Disabilities: Causes and Management

    In this Short Stated episode, Dr. Maria Kansas Devine, Chief Medical Officer at the Center for Disability Services, offers a brief but vital look at how diabetes uniquely impacts people with developmental disabilities. She shares clinical insights on early warning signs, barriers to effective care, and why person-centered education and proactive monitoring are essential. Whether you're a provider, family member, or caregiver, this quick hit will help you better support the health and well-being of those you serve.

16. 

    9 Jul 2025

    Episode 2: Person-Centered Progress Through Technology

    In this episode of CP State(d), we sit down with Constance Harrington, Director of Education and Accreditation for Tech First SHIFT, to explore the real-world impact of enabling technology in disability services. Constance shares how SHIFT is helping organizations across the country adopt tech-forward, person-centered supports that promote independence and inclusion for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We cover what enabling technology really means, how to get started, how to train staff, and what funding options exist in New York to make it all possible. Whether you're new to enabling tech or looking to deepen your impact, this conversation offers insight, guidance, and inspiration.

17. 

    20 Jun 2025

    Short Stated 01 - Pathfinder Village Farmstead Market

    Layla Hazlett, Director at Pathfinder Village, describes the Farmstead Market Project, which provides vocational training and fresh produce in a food desert community, in this interview.

18. 

    3 Jun 2025

    CP State(d) Episode 1 - Emerging Leaders Talk Work/Life Balance & The Future of the Field

    Emerging leaders discuss work-life balance and the future of their field, offering reflections on what drives them in an interview on CP State(d).

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

5,901

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 41 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

55

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

0

Contact CP State(d)

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.