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Nick Speaks

Nick Speaks is a podcast dedicated to empowering adults and young people with disabilities. Join me as I share insights and experiences from my own journey of self-discovery and advocacy. Tune in and find your voice!

Latest Episodes:

Dating While Disabled: Humor, Challenges, and Breaking Stereotypes Dec 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock delves into the world of dating and disability, starting with a holiday greeting. He shares personal experiences and examines how Independent Fundamental Baptist (IFB) culture affects views on dating with a disability. With humor, Nicolas encourages able-bodied listeners to consider dating disabled individuals, sharing family anecdotes to highlight the importance of inclusivity. He explores mixed-ability relationships, public displays of affection, and financial aspects. Nicolas humorously navigates dating apps, warns about online scams, and invites community feedback, wrapping up with holiday wishes. (0:00) Introduction to Nick Speaks and holiday greeting (1:10) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (3:14) Dating and disability: Personal experiences and IFB culture (7:22) Challenges in dating with a disability and perceptions (10:44) Intimacy and disability: A humorous perspective (17:06) Encouraging able-bodied listeners to consider dating disabled individuals (20:46) Humorous family anecdotes related to intimacy (27:47) The importance of giving disabled people a chance in dating (31:16) Dating complexities within the disabled community (34:08) Mixed-ability relationships and the desire for integration (37:01) Public displays of affection and relationship advice (39:14) Financial aspects of disabled relationships (41:04) Navigating dating apps with humor and practical advice (43:02) Online dating scams and financial caution (43:56) Community feedback request (44:25) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (44:54) Episode wrap-up and holiday wishes

Reclaiming Respect: Addressing Derogatory Language and Policy for the Disabled Community Dec 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock opens with a warm greeting and highlights the ongoing GoFundMe campaign for podcast expenses. He then delves into a monologue on the impact of the word "retard," sharing personal encounters with derogatory language. Nicolas examines the word's evolution in society and politics, discussing how humor and self-perception play roles in the disabled community. He analyzes disability policies across political parties and suggests alternatives to offensive terminology. Inviting feedback and guest participation, Nicolas calls on Congress to engage in discussions on disability policy. The episode concludes with a listener call to action.

Our Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness https://cbusrestorativemassage.com/

(0:00) Introduction and host greeting (1:32) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (2:34) GoFundMe for podcast expenses (3:30) Monologue on the word "retard" and its impact (5:25) Personal encounters with derogatory language (7:26) The evolution of "retard" in society and politics (14:07) Self-perception and humor in the disabled community (20:32) Analyzing disability policies across political parties (26:29) Alternatives to offensive terminology (28:10) Feedback and guest participation call-out (28:52) A call to Congress for disability policy discussion (30:02) Episode conclusion and listener call to action

Disabled and Demanding: The Truth About Entitlement, Nicks Stunning View Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock tackles the themes of entitlement and self-reliance, starting with an introduction and a reflection on social media engagement and TikTok growth. He delves into the concept of entitlement among people with disabilities, discussing the healing process and the day-to-day challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. Nicolas explores employment opportunities and the pursuit of the American dream, emphasizing the balance between government assistance and self-sufficiency. He advocates for self-employment and evaluates government support, offering insights on financial alternatives and personal empowerment. The episode concludes with Nicolas's final thoughts.

Our Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness https://cbusrestorativemassage.com/

GET THE BOOK: Trailblazing and Transforming: Success Stories of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities https://amzn.to/4k0mNs4

Nicks LinkTree https://linktr.ee/comstock33?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b8ad5d4a-6c5b-4134-ad36-fb09a7caf2e2

This Video is Sponsored by Goodknight Podcasting Solutions If you want to ignite your podcasting journey! They specialize in helping new and existing podcasters with strategy, growth, and connecting with their ideal clients to grow their business.

Schedule your FREE Podcast Strategy Call today at: https://pages.kylegoodknight.com/podcast-strategy-call

(0:00) Entitlement and self-reliance (0:39) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (1:42) Introduction to the episode (4:25) Social media engagement and TikTok growth (5:21) Discussion on entitlement among people with disabilities (9:11) Understanding disability and the healing process (12:29) Navigating everyday challenges with a disability (17:00) Exploring employment and achieving the American dream (23:43) Balancing government assistance with striving for self-sufficiency (30:08) Advocating for self-employment in the disabled community (32:26) Evaluating and reforming government support for the disabled (33:05) Considering financial alternatives and adapting to disability (34:01) Weighing government aid against personal empowerment (34:49) Episode closing and final thoughts (34:56) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio

No One CARES! Accessibility in Healthcare for Disabled Individuals, It's a JOKE!!! Dec 02, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock extends holiday greetings and delves into the pressing issue of accessibility within medical facilities for wheelchair users. He shares personal experiences with sleep studies and the challenges of dealing with medical equipment providers and Medicaid. Nicolas emphasizes the necessity for improved medical equipment and staff training to ensure true accessibility in healthcare. He advocates for updates to ADA laws and invites medical professionals to contribute solutions. The episode also touches on Medicaid reimbursement rates and the need for system improvements. Through shared experiences, Nicolas aims to empower individuals with disabilities. The episode concludes with closing remarks and a podcast sign-off.

Our Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness https://cbusrestorativemassage.com/

GET THE BOOK: Trailblazing and Transforming: Success Stories of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities https://amzn.to/4k0mNs4

Nicks LinkTree https://linktr.ee/comstock33?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b8ad5d4a-6c5b-4134-ad36-fb09a7caf2e2

Schedule your FREE Podcast Strategy Call today at: https://pages.kylegoodknight.com/podcast-strategy-call

(0:00) Introduction and holiday greetings (0:50) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (4:12) Accessibility and challenges in medical facilities for wheelchair users (7:09) Sleep study experience and accessibility issues (10:46) Struggles with medical equipment providers and Medicaid (14:41) Need for better medical equipment and staff training (23:38) The importance of true accessibility in healthcare (28:09) Advocacy for updates to ADA laws and medical care improvements (30:20) Inviting medical professionals to provide solutions (31:01) Discussing Medicaid reimbursement rates and system improvements (33:04) Medical equipment needs in healthcare settings (34:29) Empowering disabled individuals through shared experiences (36:06) Closing remarks and podcast sign-off

Navigating Church Accessibility: A Call for Inclusivity and Understanding Nov 25, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares his experiences within church communities, focusing on exploitation and inclusivity. He begins with Thanksgiving wishes and discusses the challenges of church involvement, including feeling used and ignored. Nicolas recounts both positive and frustrating encounters with leaders like Pastor John Wilkerson and Pastor Rod Parsley. He highlights the struggle of being treated differently and his decision to leave World Harvest Church. Offering advice to pastors on fostering inclusivity, he encourages listeners to cultivate a personal connection with God. He concludes with a message to Pastor Parsley and shares his current stance on church attendance. Our Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness https://cbusrestorativemassage.com/ (0:00) Introduction, Thanksgiving wishes, and exploitation in churches (0:45) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (4:00) Christmas gift idea: Massage from Columbus Restorative (4:57) Struggles with church involvement and exploitation (10:00) Being used as a sermon illustration and feeling ignored (18:07) Positive experiences with Pastor John Wilkerson and leadership frustrations (22:17) World Harvest Church and Pastor Rod Parsley experiences (29:36) Persistence in meeting Pastor Parsley and exclusion at church (35:24) Being treated differently and leaving World Harvest (37:28) Advice to pastors on inclusivity and accessibility in churches (39:05) Encouraging personal connection with God (40:03) Direct message to Pastor Parsley and current church attendance stance (42:42) Future plans and advice for church leaders (45:01) Closing remarks and sponsor mention

Navigating Loneliness and Relationships with Disabilities Nov 18, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock explores loneliness among individuals with disabilities, examining the paradox of feeling lonely despite constant presence of caregivers. He discusses maintaining boundaries, independence, and the silent challenges of needing assistance. Nicolas addresses issues like personal space, friendships, holidays, financial struggles, and parenting. The episode highlights the importance of relationships, dispels misconceptions about the social needs of disabled individuals, and emphasizes the universal need for affection. Nicolas invites listeners to engage with future episodes and shares his final thoughts. (0:00) Introduction to loneliness and podcast purpose (1:26) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (3:30) The paradox of never being alone yet feeling lonely (5:25) Understanding the role of caregivers vs. personal friendships (8:21) The complexity of boundaries and independence with disabilities (14:55) Silent moments and the constant need for assistance (21:55) Challenges of personal space and forming friendships (25:19) Coping with holidays, financial struggles, and parenting concerns (31:25) Recap of loneliness and the importance of relationships (33:07) Addressing misconceptions about social needs of disabled individuals (38:08) The human need for affection and episode inspiration (40:36) Listener engagement and future episode plans (41:43) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (42:13) Final thoughts and goodbye

Empowering Disabled Entrepreneurs Amid Government Challenges Nov 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock delves into the theme of self-reliance against the backdrop of current events, starting with an introduction to the topic. He discusses the implications of a government shutdown on individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the need for empowerment among disabled entrepreneurs. Nicolas analyzes political party policies regarding disability benefits and explores ways to move beyond government assistance. He highlights the importance of understanding asset limits and spend down programs, advocating for backup plans within the disabled community. The episode concludes with insights on a GoFundMe campaign and contact information for speaking engagements.

GET THE BOOK: Trailblazing and Transforming: Success Stories of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities https://amzn.to/4k0mNs4

Nicks LinkTree https://linktr.ee/comstock33?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b8ad5d4a-6c5b-4134-ad36-fb09a7caf2e2

Schedule your FREE Podcast Strategy Call today at: https://pages.kylegoodknight.com/podcast-strategy-call

(0:00) Introduction to self-reliance and current events (0:58) Sponsor: Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (2:50) Government shutdown and its impact on people with disabilities (4:01) Empowerment for disabled entrepreneurs (6:16) Analysis of political party policies on disability benefits (10:49) Moving beyond government assistance for the disabled (14:21) Understanding asset limits and spend down programs (20:53) The importance of backup plans for the disabled community (22:08) GoFundMe campaign and contact details for speaking engagements

Why Caregiving is More Than a Job with Tony Britt of ViaQuest Nov 04, 2025

Show notes

The Nick Speaks Podcast goes on the road! This special episode was recorded live during Nick’s speaking engagement at ViaQuest. The tables are turned as Nick steps into the guest seat, interviewed by Tony Britt, Vice President of Day Services at ViaQuest. Together, they explore Nick’s personal journey with legal blindness, the challenges and triumphs that shaped his path, and how vocational rehabilitation helped him discover his career purpose. Nick also reflects on his podcasting journey, favorite moments, and the powerful role technology plays in his success. The conversation dives into the heart of caregiving—both its emotional and physical sides—offering real insight and encouragement for anyone on a similar path.

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock was on site for one of his public Speaking events. He is introduced by Tony Britt from ViaQuest and shares his personal journey with legal blindness, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he has faced along the way. Nicolas discusses his experiences in vocational rehabilitation and how they led to career discovery. He reflects on his podcasting journey, favorite episodes, and future goals, emphasizing the impact of technology on his life and work. The conversation also touches on the emotional and physical aspects of caregiving, offering valuable advice for caregivers. The episode concludes with closing remarks and an invitation for listeners to engage further.

WANT TO HIRE NICK TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
Schedule a call with him from his Linktree https://linktr.ee/comstock33?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=b8ad5d4a-6c5b-4134-ad36-fb09a7caf2e2

Never let anyone define your worth or potential based on their limited perspective.
Technology can be a game-changer in providing independence and opportunities for people with disabilities.
Surrounding yourself with supportive people and finding purpose can transform even the most challenging circumstances.

GET THE BOOK: Trailblazing and Transforming: Success Stories of Entrepreneurs with Disabilities https://amzn.to/4k0mNs4

(0:00) Opening story and introduction to the episode (0:44) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (2:29) Introduction of special guest Tony Britt (3:33) Nicolas's journey with legal blindness and overcoming challenges (5:01) Vocational rehab experiences and career discovery (8:21) Podcasting journey, favorite episodes, and goals (14:42) Impact of technology on Nicolas's life and podcast (18:09) Emotional and physical aspects of caregiving (24:47) Advice for caregivers and conclusion (33:58) Closing remarks and invitation for engagements

Building Bridges: Supporting DSPs and Transforming Disability Services Oct 28, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Bethany Toledo McFray about her journey in disability services and managing group homes. They tackle staffing challenges and the vital role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Bethany discusses the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP) and its credentialing and leadership initiatives. They also cover preparing high school seniors for DSP roles, feedback from OADSP programs, and Lighthouse Cove's rebranding goals. The episode highlights community building, supporting DSPs, and events like "Beat the Winter Blues," ending with advice for DSPs and resource contacts.

Bio: Bethany Toledo-Mcray has worked in the field of developmental disabilities for over twenty years. Throughout her career, she has developed a strong passion for supporting DSPs to develop the skills and knowledge they needed to be successful in supporting people with disabilities. This passion led her to volunteer with the Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals, where she became their first full-time executive director. Bethany and her team have developed a wide variety of nationally recognized and award-winning programs and resources for DSPs and frontline supervisors in Ohio. Bethany’s experience has led her to provide support and consultation to stakeholder groups outside of Ohio to build strong support networks for DSPs, and replicate successful and sustainable models of credentialing and leadership development

Press Release About Lighthouse Cove https://myemail.constantcontact.com/For-Immediate-Release-.html?soid=1104301294540&aid=djFZEmo7_VA

New Year's Eve Countdown to Lighthouse Cove celebration https://www.oadsp.org/event/jamming-4-dsps-new-years-eve-celebration/

(0:00) Introduction to Nick Speaks and Role of Disabilities Advocacy (0:51) Sponsor: Columbus Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (2:06) Guest Introduction: Bethany Toledo McFray (4:06) Bethany's Journey in Disability Services (5:01) Transition to Disability Group Homes and Staffing Challenges (7:10) Comparing Care Facilities for People with Disabilities (9:11) Elevating and Educating the Role of Direct Support Professionals (DSP) (12:28) OADSP Mission and DSP Credentialing (15:17) Leadership Initiatives and Education for DSPs (19:25) Preparing High School Seniors for DSP Roles (21:18) Feedback and Success Stories from OADSP Programs (23:05) Lighthouse Cove: Rebranding and Expansion Goals (26:17) Supporting DSPs with Programs and Resources (29:10) Establishing a DSP Hotline and Ensuring Safety (32:31) Community Building and Overcoming Isolation in DSP Work (33:12) Special Events: Beat the Winter Blues and Jammin' for DSPs (38:49) Advice for New and Experienced DSPs (41:14) Contact Information and Additional Resources (42:22) Closing and Sponsor Acknowledgment

Real Talk: Dating, Consent, and Advocacy for People with Disabilities Oct 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Tiff Bowen as they dive into a range of topics centered around disability advocacy and personal experiences. They begin with Thanksgiving stories and the mission of Tiff's Real Talk initiative. The conversation shifts to the importance of good food at events, touching on Synergy Conference challenges. Tiff shares insights on Real Talk, sexual education, and the complexities of dating with disabilities. They discuss media influences, online scams, and the need for empathy and double staffing in caregiving. The episode wraps up with a recap, promotion of Tiff's classes, and a parental advisory note.

Tiff Bowen is an authenticity coach, speaker, and creator of The Pursuit Coaching — a movement dedicated to helping people reconnect with who they are, what they value, and how they love. Through her signature Real Talk: Relationships & Respect series, Tiff creates powerful conversations that challenge people with intellectual disabilities and Direct Support Professionals to think deeply about how they show up in love, communication, and connection.

With over two decades of leadership experience in human services and coaching, Tiff brings a rare blend of humor, heart, and honesty to every discussion. Her approach isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence, self-awareness, and building relationships that feel like home.

Whether she’s guiding teams, speaking to audiences, or sharing real talk on her platforms, Tiff’s message is clear: authenticity isn’t a destination — it’s a daily choice to live, love, and lead on purpose.

https://pursuitof.life/ hello@pursuitof.life

(0:00) Introduction and guest introduction (1:01) Sponsor: Columbus Restore Restorative Massage and Wellness Studio (6:00) Thanksgiving stories and Real Talk's mission (11:00) The importance of good food at events and Synergy Conference food issues (19:34) Tiff Bowen on starting Real Talk and when to have sex (27:00) Nick's dating app experiences and misconceptions about disabilities and sex (38:16) Sex education challenges for people with disabilities (42:34) Sexual compatibility, consent, and Nick's personal journey (50:02) Media influence on sexual awareness and consent in online dating (55:33) Online scams and trust issues for people with disabilities (1:03:14) TikTok advocacy and caregiver shift issues (1:07:12) Financial and personal challenges with caregiving (1:13:15) Medicaid waivers, medical equipment, and funding issues (1:24:10) Empathy for people with disabilities and need for double staffing (1:32:02) Fast food favorites and critiques (1:34:47) Recap and mission statement (1:35:43) Promotion of Tiffany's real talk classes (1:36:07) Parental advisory note and closing remarks

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