The Post Secondary Transition Conversation

Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) have an in-depth conversation with Lavonne Smith, a parent of an adult with special needs. Ms. Lavonne shares her son Thomas’s journey from exploring different work experiences in high school to securing long-term employment at Weis Markets. She reflects on how supportive managers, community involvement, and opportunities tailored to Thomas’s strengths helped him grow in confidence and independence—while highlighting the importance of finding the...

Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) kick off Season 5 with Thomas Smith, a former student and adult with special needs who has worked at Weis Markets for 16 years. Thomas discusses on his various roles, customer interactions, and experiences training new employees. He also shares stories about his favorite coworkers, his Special Olympics adventures, and the upcoming events he’s most excited about. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords: Post Secondary Transition, students with dis...

Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) speak with Beth Brady, director of admissions and student services at Sunflower Bakery, about the organization’s programs for young adults with disabilities. Beth explains how students build soft skills and technical expertise through culinary arts, pastry arts, hospitality training, and immersive commercial-kitchen experiences. Drawing on her background in education and behavioral intervention, she also shares how individualized strategies, prog...

Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) finish the second part of their discussion with Beth Brady from Sunflower Bakery. Beth explains the individualized support provided to students, including behavioral strategies and progress charts. Drawing from her education background, Beth also highlights the importance of simplifying expectations, providing visual aids for inclusive employment and more. Join the conversation! Episode Keywords: Sunflower Bakery, Beth Brady, IEP, job placement, ...

Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) discuss the Sunflower Bakery program with Beth Brady, their director of admissions and student services. Established in 2009, the bakery serves young adults with disabilities through culinary arts, pastry arts, and hospitality programs. With a background in behavioral intervention, Beth walks through the program's structure including the importance of soft skills and technical training, followed by immersive experiences in a commercial kitchen. J...