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Hi, Eric Goll here. Today, we’ll talk about independence for adults with developmental disabilities, and why it does not mean doing everything alone. Many families picture independence as their loved one managing with no help at all, and that picture feels impossible. The truth is gentler, and more hopeful. In this video, you’ll discover: 🌟 Why independence does not mean doing everything alone 📈 The two real goals that make your loved one’s future safe ✅ A simple place to start this week 👉 Watch now to rethink independence in a way that is realistic, respectful, and full of hope for your loved one.     — About Eric Goll: Welcome to Empowering Ability! I’m Eric Goll, and my mission is to help you ensure your loved one with an intellectual/developmental disability lives an Awesome Ordinary Life! As a family member and coach, I support families touched by autism and developmental disabilities by providing the knowledge and tools to cultivate an awesome, ordinary life for your loved ones, ensuring their care and support now and in the future.   🎁 Download your FREE copy of the "Life Planning 101 Guide": https://www.empoweringability.org/lif... 🎙️ Follow the Empowering Ability Podcast: https://bit.ly/EmpoweringAbilityPodcast 🌐 Visit the Empowering Ability Blog: https://www.empoweringability.org/blog/ 🔔 Subscribe to this YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll 👨‍👩‍👧 Join the Empowering Ability Family Members Only Facebook Group:   / empoweringabilityfamilygroup     Related reading on the blog: Disability and independent living: https://www.empoweringability.org/dis... What is a Circle of Support: https://www.empoweringability.org/wha...

In this episode, Eric shares what his family learned when they began looking beyond the group home model for his sister Sarah, and what actually helped her build a safer, more independent life. You’ll learn: Why Eric’s family started looking for alternatives to a group home The three things that helped Sarah build more safety and independence Why safety is about more than a building or staff How to help your loved one build skills one small step at a time A simple place to start this week, even if moving out is still years away The goal isn’t for your loved one to do everything alone. It’s to help them grow their capability over time and have more people in their life they can depend on, not just mom and dad. — About Eric Goll: Welcome to Empowering Ability! I’m Eric Goll, and my mission is to help you ensure your loved one with an intellectual/developmental disability lives an Awesome Ordinary Life! As a family member and coach, I support families touched by autism and developmental disabilities by providing the knowledge and tools to cultivate an awesome, ordinary life for your loved ones, ensuring their care and support now and in the future. 🎁 Download your FREE copy of the "Life Planning 101 Guide": https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide-yt/

Today, we’ll talk about friendships for adults with developmental disabilities and where to start. Many adults with a disability are surrounded mostly by paid people. What is often missing are freely given relationships, the people who are not paid to be there. In this video, you’ll discover: 🌟 The one question to ask about the people in your loved one’s life 📈 Why freely given relationships make your loved one’s future more safety proof ✅ One small step you can take this week    — About Eric Goll: Welcome to Empowering Ability! I’m Eric Goll, and my mission is to help you ensure your loved one with an intellectual/developmental disability lives an Awesome Ordinary Life! As a family member and coach, I support families touched by autism and developmental disabilities by providing the knowledge and tools to cultivate an awesome, ordinary life for your loved ones, ensuring their care and support now and in the future. 🎁 Download your FREE copy of the "Life Planning 101 Guide": https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide-yt/

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into the real fears families face when considering community inclusion developmental disabilities and offers compassionate, practical advice to move forward. If you’ve been feeling stuck between the safety of segregated programs and the promise of ordinary community life, this episode is for you.   Listeners will discover: - The four most common fears families have about inclusion - The truths and data that dispel misconceptions - Real-life stories that bring hope and understanding - Practical first steps you can take toward inclusive community living   Why this matters: Moving toward genuine inclusion is a pathway to independence, valued relationships, and a fulfilling daily life for your loved one — and peace of mind for your family.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a personal story about his sister Sarah and the challenges of traditional disability-only day programs. He explores why these segregated settings often create isolation rather than connection. Listeners will learn what true community inclusion means and why it matters deeply for the quality of life of people with developmental disabilities.   Discover: - The hidden realities of day programs and how they limit independence - What authentic community inclusion for people with disabilities looks like in everyday life - Practical first steps families can take to move toward meaningful community participation - How embracing inclusion transforms lives, relationships, and opportunities   This episode matters because every person with a developmental disability deserves to belong fully in their community. Segregation not only limits potential but also reinforces outdated societal views. Real inclusion builds belonging, growth, and contribution.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll explores the empowering concept of self determination disability and how it can transform the way families support their loved ones with developmental disabilities. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode breaks down the key ideas, benefits, challenges, and practical steps to get started.   Listeners will discover:   - What self determination disability actually means and how it works - The difference between agency-managed supports and individualized funding - The pros and cons families face when choosing self determination - Tips for creating a life plan to guide meaningful supports   Understanding self determination is vital because it shifts control and choice to your loved one and family, fostering independence and dignity. With the right tools and knowledge, families can create supportive environments tailored to real goals and dreams.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll dives into one of the most essential yet often overlooked topics for families: teaching safety skills to loved ones with developmental disabilities. Eric shares practical strategies to empower your loved one to recognize danger, set boundaries, and respond confidently to emergencies.   What you’ll discover: - Why adults with developmental disabilities face higher safety risks - The five foundational safety skills every family should teach - Real-world examples of teaching boundaries and emergency response - Simple, actionable steps to start building these skills today   Safety skills aren’t just about avoiding harm—they are the foundation for true independence and dignity for your loved one. Eric’s warm, empathetic guidance helps families feel hopeful and prepared to tackle this critical area.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll tackles the challenging but crucial question that every family member faces: What Will Happen to My Loved One with a Disability When I'm Gone? Rather than avoiding the topic, Eric shares practical insights and real-life stories to help you create a customized Life Plan that protects your loved one’s independence and well-being.   Listeners will discover: - The common risks families face without a written plan - Why informal assumptions can lead to chaos and hardship - A clear, four-step process to build and implement a Life Plan - Legal and financial strategies to protect social benefits and ensure proper guardianship alternatives   Planning your loved one’s future isn’t just paperwork—it’s about ensuring an Awesome Ordinary Life filled with connection, dignity, and purpose. This episode empowers families to move from fear and uncertainty to hope and action.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares the powerful 8-step roadmap that transformed his family’s approach to future planning for adults with disabilities. If you’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, this episode offers clear guidance to create a customized life plan centered on your loved one's strengths, dreams, and independence.   Listeners will discover: - Why defining a "good life" must come before legal or housing discussions - The importance of nurturing genuine friendships and meaningful community roles - How to increase capability and independence with small, steady steps - Ways to design a home and support system that truly fits your loved one   Planning for the future can be daunting, but with the right tools, any family can build an Awesome Ordinary Life full of dignity, contribution, and belonging.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

As 2025 ends, many families care deeply about creating a secure, independent future for their loved ones with developmental disabilities. In this episode, Eric Goll shares four essential keys—from persistence to positivity and planning—that families can use to make 2026 their best year yet.   Listeners will discover: How to turn persistence into intentional, strategic action Why pacing goals to your loved one’s unique rhythm matters The power of celebrating small wins to build momentum How to create and use a customized life plan for steady progress   These keys are vital because steady progress builds hope, independence, and real change. Planning with intention and patience creates a roadmap to a good life, offering peace of mind for families and dignity for your loved one.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-101-guide/

In this episode, Eric Goll shares a powerful personal story about his sister Sarah and the mindset shifts that unlocked her potential. Discover why focusing on what your loved one can do, rather than what they can’t, is the most important step you can take.   Listeners will discover: - How low expectations limit opportunities and how to break that cycle - The importance of strength-based thinking over deficit-based approaches - Why moving away from "special needs" thinking creates freedom and inclusion - Practical tips to practice a high-expectation mindset every day   This episode matters because your mindset is more powerful than any funding or program; your belief can open doors for a fulfilling, connected, and independent life.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide

In this episode, Eric Goll shares heartfelt and practical insights gained from his sister Sarah’s journey to more independent living. Discover how shifting your role from caregiver to coach can unlock your loved one’s potential and build their confidence step by step. Eric breaks down essential life skills into manageable groups and offers actionable guidance to help families support adults with disabilities flourishing in their communities.   What you’ll discover: - Why independence means interdependence and the right support, not zero support - The three key groups of living skills to focus on: Essentials, Adulting, and Advanced - How to overcome low expectations and set a high-expectation mindset - Practical tips to shift from doing tasks for your loved one to coaching alongside them   This episode matters because teaching life skills gives your loved one freedom, dignity, and a richer life — and brings peace and less worry to your entire family.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide at

In this episode, I share the story of my sister Sarah and how we found better alternatives to group homes that gave her a life of independence, dignity, and joy. Many families feel forced to accept group home placements, but there are real options that offer more privacy, control, and community connection.   What you’ll discover: - What group homes are and why they may not suit everyone - The ins and outs of Supported Independent Living and Shared Living - How creating a customized home can transform lives - Practical steps to begin planning for a better future   Deciding where and how your loved one lives is one of the most important choices you’ll make. Learning about these alternatives empowers you to make intentional decisions that lead to meaningful, secure, and fulfilling futures.   Ready to start planning? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide

In this episode, Eric Goll opens up about a common but challenging question many families face: what is a group home, and is it truly the right choice for your loved one with a developmental disability?   Listeners will discover: - The three main types of group homes and how they differ - The real pros and cons families experience with group homes - Important safety considerations every family should know - Practical, hopeful alternatives to create a true home environment   This conversation matters because housing impacts not just safety, but independence, dignity, and quality of life. Group homes are not the only path—there are ordinary, empowering options that honor your loved one’s unique needs and dreams.   Ready to start planning a future that fits your family’s hopes and needs? Download your FREE Life Planning 101 Guide and take your first step with confidence and hope.

Whether you're getting ready for your loved one to move out of the family home, OR - just trying to prepare them for independence, There is one important life skill they need to learn. And no, it's not about cooking, cleaning, or handling money... It's about knowing how to ask for help. I remember when I first started to gain more independence. Then when I moved out of my parents home for the first time and went to college. I did not know everything that I needed to know. (Even though I thought I did) I couldn't cook, clean, or manage my schedule properly. I learned as I went, and that's how most of us do it. What got me through was... the ability to ask for help. Many families may fear that their loved one isn't ready to move out. But no one ever has every skill they need at first. Listen to this episode to learn how to support your loved one to learn how to ask for help.   🚀 If these strategies resonate with you, Subscribe for Weekly Goodness here: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll --- About Eric Goll: Welcome to Empowering Ability! I'm Eric Goll, and my mission is to help you ensure your loved one with an intellectual/developmental disability lives an Awesome Ordinary Life! As a family member and coach, I support families touched by autism/ developmental disabilities. I provide the knowledge and tools to cultivate an awesome, ordinary life for your loved ones, ensuring their care and support now and in the future. 🎁 Download my FREE copy of my “Life Planning 101 Guide” to start your loved one's Life Plan Now:  https://www.empoweringability.org/life-planning-guide/ 🎙️ Follow the Empowering Ability Podcast: https://bit.ly/EmpoweringAbilityPodcast 🌐 Visit the Empowering Ability Blog: https://www.empoweringability.org/blog/ 🔔 Subscribe to this YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/YoutubeEricGoll 👨‍👩‍👧 Join the Empowering Ability Family Members Only Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweringabilityfamilygroup