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:

Christine Olson on TIFF: Advocating for Families Through Tragedy and Community Support Aug 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Christine Olson, who shares her journey to Florida and the inception of To Inform Families First (TIFF). Christine discusses the notification issues that led to the creation of TIFF and its significance for the special needs community. They delve into how TIFF operates and its policy impact, highlighting the role of faith in overcoming tragedy and expanding TIFF's reach to various vulnerable groups. Personal anecdotes underscore the initiative's importance, and they conclude with a call to action and a preview of upcoming episodes. (0:00) Sponsor: To Inform Families First (0:37) Introduction by Nicolas Comstock and guest Christine Olson (2:04) Christine Olson's background and move to Florida (5:26) TIFF initiative and the story behind it (15:20) Notification issues and birth of TIFF initiative (22:03) TIFF's importance for the special needs community (27:18) How TIFF works and policy impact (35:01) Role of faith in overcoming tragedy and TIFF's broader reach (41:53) Expanding TIFF to various vulnerable groups (46:08) Personal anecdotes and the initiative's significance (49:28) Call to action and mention of upcoming episodes

Building Community and Future Goals of The Nick Speaks Podcast Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock is joined by Kyle Goodknight, who brings a playful twist as he hijacks the show. They discuss the podcast's origins and expansion, touching on Nick's speaking opportunities and appearances on other podcasts. They emphasize the importance of building a community and seek assistance for guest bookings. A heartwarming encounter with a podcast listener and gratitude to medical staff are shared. The conversation delves into service animals and Nick's unique voice, future goals, collaborations, and the aspiration to interview notable guests. They also explore planning a live podcast event, addressing skepticism, and supporting the podcast. The episode concludes with a special announcement and closing remarks.

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

(0:00) Introduction and Kyle Goodknight hijacks the show (4:12) Origin and expansion of the podcast (7:03) Nick's speaking opportunities and other podcast appearances (12:23) Building a community and seeking help for booking guests (21:07) Meeting a podcast listener and gratitude to medical staff (26:35) Service animals and the uniqueness of Nick's voice (29:16) Future goals, brainstorming growth, and collaborations (33:40) Relationship-building and aspiring to interview notable guests (37:08) Planning a live podcast event (42:16) Addressing skepticism and podcast support (46:09) Special episode announcement and closing remarks

Megan Metzger on Capernaum: Inclusion, Belonging, and Empowering Communities Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock chats with Megan Metzger about Capernaum, a ministry dedicated to inclusion for people with disabilities. Megan shares her journey from Young Life to Capernaum, discussing its training, inclusive approach, and global impact. They explore the unique aspects of Columbus Metro Capernaum and a leadership program for adults with disabilities. The conversation also touches on parenting a child with autism and the difference between inclusion and belonging. They highlight the importance of teaching boundaries and community involvement. The episode wraps up with insights on future topics and encouraging listener engagement.

Megan Metzger has been on Young Life staff for nearly five years and recently stepped into the role of Greater Columbus Capernaum Coordinator in April 2025. She is passionate about creating spaces of true belonging for individuals with disabilities and believes she has come to know the heart of Jesus more deeply through her friendships in the disability community. Megan is married to her husband Joel and is the proud mom of three kids—Leah (12), and twins Elliot and Nora (9).

Young Life Capernaum's website is = https://capernaum.younglife.org

Our Greater Columbus website is https://columbuscapernaum.younglife.org

You can email me at meganmetzgeryl@gmail.com or columbuscapernaum@gmail.com

(0:00) Introduction and welcome by Nicolas Comstock (1:01) Show notes, podcast platforms, and book promotion (2:22) Guest introduction: Megan Metzger and Capernaum overview (3:16) Megan Metzger's background and connection to disabilities (5:52) Megan's ministry journey with Young Life and Capernaum (10:28) Capernaum's training, inclusive approach, and global impact (17:03) Programs, activities, and community impact of Capernaum (24:07) Unique aspects and local involvement with Columbus Metro Capernaum (26:54) Leadership experience program for adults with disabilities (32:36) Life lessons from Capernaum's work (34:33) Insights on parenting a child with autism (38:54) Discussing inclusion versus belonging (43:21) Importance of teaching boundaries (49:47) Community involvement's role in empowering people with disabilities (52:23) Closing remarks, future episodes, and Capernaum involvement (55:33) Sign-off and listener engagement encouragement

Caregiving Insights with Deritus: Challenges, Rewards, and Building Strong Relationships Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock welcomes Deritus, a primary caregiver and founder of Rekindle Living. Deritus shares his background and the personalized, client-centered approach of his caregiving service. They discuss the challenges and rewards of caregiving, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal care plans. The conversation explores staffing challenges, contrasting American and foreign workers, and the cultural differences that impact caregiving. They highlight the significance of passion, flexibility, and effective communication in caregiving roles. Deritus offers insights and advice for caregivers, touching on advocacy and community engagement. The episode concludes with a book recommendation and a teaser for the next episode.

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

(0:00) Welcome and Introduction to Nick Speaks (2:23) Introducing guest Deritus, primary caregiver (3:41) Deritus's background and opening Rekindle Living (7:17) Personalized approach and client-centered scheduling (12:54) The dynamics of caregiving: Challenges and rewards (16:10) Enhancing accessibility and personal care plans (22:19) Staffing and commitment in caregiving (27:20) Staffing challenges: American vs. foreign workers and cultural differences (30:28) The significance of passion and flexibility in caregiving (37:06) Discussing cell phone usage and staff limitations (41:13) Overcoming language barriers and the value of cultural training (45:02) The key role of communication and building relationships (49:32) Insights and advice for caregivers (55:25) Advocacy and community engagement (56:02) Book recommendation and the role of humor in caregiving (56:50) Closing remarks and next episode teaser

From Origins to Impact The Story of Disability Pride Month Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Daniel Rivera discuss Disability Pride Month, its origins, and critiques. They explore equality, political views, and Daniel's personal experiences with bullying and caregivers. The conversation touches on disability pride in relation to other social movements, media representation, and balancing acceptance with the desire for change. They also discuss the influence of family and society, and separating identity from disability. The episode highlights community support and concludes with a call to action for listeners to share their disability acceptance stories.

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

(0:00) Introduction and Announcements (1:29) Introduction of guest Daniel Rivera (3:35) Disability Pride Month: Origins and Critique (7:23) Equality for People with Disabilities (8:20) Political views and Disability Discussions (12:16) Disability Experiences: Bullying and Caregivers (17:45) Empowering Caregivers in the Disabled Community (23:01) Disability Pride vs. Other Social Movements (25:10) Disability Representation in Media (26:59) Balancing Acceptance and Desire for Change in Disability (31:20) Influence of Family and Society on Disability Acceptance (33:07) Listener Engagement: Alone Time and Safety (36:29) Weekly Call to Action: Disability Acceptance Stories (41:05) Identity and Disability Separation (46:38) The Importance of Community and Support Networks (49:29) Closing Remarks and Sponsor Mentions

Aspen Sage's Journey: Advocacy, Accessibility, and Life Beyond Paralysis Jul 08, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock speaks with Aspen Sage, who shares their journey through early life trauma and experiences with paralysis. Aspen discusses adapting to life after paralysis, facing mental health challenges, and navigating stigma in healthcare. They talk about founding Accessibility with Aspen Sage and the transition from hospital to home. Aspen explores topics like advocacy, social security disability, and the influence of social media on disability language. The conversation covers educating children about disabilities, friendships, and dating. Aspen shares insights into their project of creating a fully accessible tiny home. The episode concludes with ways to connect with Aspen Sage and information on how to be featured on Nick Speaks.

Aspen (Sage) Baxter is passionate about promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Living as a paraplegic with Autism and a Neurological Condition, Aspen has first-hand experience navigating the challenges of multiple disabilities. Following a medication injury in 2021 that resulted in her paralysis, Aspen has become an advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in all aspects of life.

Social Media Links:

https://www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-aspens-path-to-greater-independence?attribution_id=sl:f25bf215-d2f8-4d40-a13b-f220479cb73b&lang=en_US&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLSkuxleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp8V3rZgXTPNgPVvO8wxDf5lfhhJB69rZTLGIKjS4CrcfZZXCSfPH10nCRRbV_aem_3IIWrfLV5Q8JOsb5cLBXNg

https://www.instagram.com/accessibility_with_aspen_sage/

https://www.facebook.com/100088896653501/

https://m.youtube.com/@accessibilitywithaspensage?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLSkxZleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp6iMgWrJF2wtbdbIIsA9anmz_gjGXlmFWFKECopMwYfgNifeFJEf802vDozw_aem_eOK3ePr_imTJyDe_Ztw-cg

https://substack.com/@accessibilitywithaspensage?utm_source=user-menu&fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLSkyNleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABp-8vmv_OxuNOpS5MuthWPJVZ7lSG_Rw5KL1iMmFURP1n_O2gvTijm4Q9vaeA_aem_Rv4KJ6zFXd5z8PlvL9KDag

(0:00) Introduction to Aspen Sage and the term "disability" (2:03) Aspen's life, trauma, and early experiences with paralysis (5:33) Adapting to life after paralysis and mental health challenges (9:13) Medical power of attorney and adverse medication reactions (12:32) Stigma and challenges in healthcare settings (17:05) Starting Accessibility with Aspen Sage (22:27) Transitioning from hospital to home and the role of support (28:32) Advocacy, purpose, and travel (33:12) Social security disability and collaborations (37:08) Social media influence and disability language (40:54) Educating children about disabilities (42:17) Friendships and dating with a disability (56:24) Aspen's project: a fully accessible tiny home (59:11) Closing thoughts and where to find Aspen Sage (1:02:42) How to be a guest on Nick Speaks (1:03:30) Sponsor: "Trailblazing and Entrepreneurial Stories of People with Disabilities" (1:03:57) Support the Nick Speaks GoFundMe (1:04:34) Final remarks and sign-off

Two reasons the Nick Speaks podcast exist Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock shares insights into his journey of advocacy and public speaking, addressing employment and financial challenges faced by the disabled community. He discusses the significance of ABLE accounts and GoFundMe support, offering expectations for his role as a speaker. Nicolas critiques current disability policies and the ADA, stressing the need for improved opportunities. He encourages self-advocacy and reflects on personal struggles, faith, and building a fulfilling life. The episode includes calls to action for support and donations, highlights upcoming guests, and concludes with empowering messages for the disabled community.

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

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

(0:00) Introduction and podcast mission (1:27) Book release and availability (2:23) Purpose and gratitude (3:50) Shoutout to producer and Sponsor: Goodnight Podcasting Solutions (5:19) Journey to advocacy and public speaking (10:37) Employment and financial challenges for the disabled (12:22) ABLE accounts and GoFundMe support (15:14) Expectations from Nicolas as a speaker (18:09) Advocacy and political views on disability policies (23:18) Critique of ADA and need for better opportunities (26:22) Encouragement for self-advocacy and podcast's purpose (29:19) Personal struggles, faith, and building a fulfilling life (30:26) Calls to action for support and donations (34:21) Empowering the disabled community and upcoming guests (36:17) Closing remarks and sign-off

How Tech Empowers Disabled Lives: Carly Dauch on Need for Assistive Tech in Disability Services Jun 24, 2025

Show notes

Join Nicolas Comstock and Carly Dauch as they delve into the transformative impact of assistive technology in Ohio. Carly shares her journey and work with Wood County's services, discussing challenges in transportation, health support, and innovative solutions like virtual tours and remote support. They explore medication management, wearable tech, safety sensors, adaptive cooking, and smart home devices. Carly also touches on the assistive tech lending library, privacy concerns, and community involvement. The episode concludes with career advice for those entering the disability sector and reflections on job satisfaction within the Technology First initiative.

Link: https://www.woodcountydd.org/health-supports - this page has both the device inventory and virtual tour. Carly Dauch, OTD, OTR/L is the Health Supports Coordinator for the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD). She is the Technology First lead for the WCBDD, where she oversees the Innovative Technology Grant, Region 1 Technology Hub, TwinTech 2.0 and all Technology First initiatives for the agency.  She has been in this position for 8 years.

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

(0:00) Introduction and show notes (1:43) Book promotion and GoFundMe campaign (3:24) Introduction of guest Carly Dauch (4:42) Carly Dauch's background and motivation (9:01) Assistive technology in Ohio and its impact (17:33) Wood County's assistive tech services and programs (30:10) Addressing transportation and health support challenges (33:09) Virtual tour and remote support features (38:42) Medication and wearable tech devices (46:40) Safety tech: Bed sensors and fall detection (50:08) Kitchen technology and adaptive cooking (55:16) Summer programs and daily living assistive tech (59:27) Smart home devices and staffing solutions (1:06:14) Assistive tech lending library and expansion efforts (1:16:38) Privacy concerns and tailored support (1:21:37) Community involvement and innovative grants (1:24:15) Sharing resources through tech hubs and human interaction (1:26:24) Planning and advice for working in the disability sector (1:29:38) Job satisfaction and the Technology First initiative (1:32:06) Guest participation and episode conclusion

Empowering Communities: Kelly Schuck on Advocacy and Ohio's Developmental Disability Services Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock talks with Kelly Shuck about her role as a Community Life Engagement Project Manager and her impact on disability advocacy. Kelly shares her career journey, highlighting achievements and challenges in the field. They discuss Ohio's Technology First initiative, family support, and teaching children about disability work. Topics include inclusivity in education, career aspirations, leadership changes, and the importance of advocacy. Kelly offers advice for those entering disability services, emphasizing passion and Ohio's supportive environment. The episode wraps up with closing remarks and promotions.

Bio: Kelly Schuck, MOD, (she/her) serves as a Project Manager with the Community Life Engagement Team at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. In this role,e she supports people with disabilities, families, and professionals with resources, training, and technical assistance related to technology, community inclusion, the transition from school to adulthood, and employment. Kelly has over 22 years of experience in the field supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live their best life.

(0:00) Introduction and show notes (2:11) Guest introduction: Kelly Shuck (3:16) Duties and impact of Community Life Engagement Project Manager (5:53) The significance of community in disability advocacy (7:04) Kelly Shuck's background and career in the disability field (12:06) Highlights and challenges in disability services (14:19) Ohio's Technology First initiative and family support (21:21) Fostering children's understanding of disability work (25:22) Inclusivity and disability awareness in education (28:45) Career aspirations in the disability sector (30:18) Leadership changes and Director Hauk's retirement (32:33) The importance of advocacy and knowing service directors (35:00) Advice for pursuing a career in disability services (37:56) Passion in disability services and Ohio's supportive environment (39:17) Closing remarks and promotions

Empowering Voices: Phillip Bramwell on Self-Advocacy, Medicaid, and Overcoming Government Neglect Jun 10, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Phillip Bramwell delve into the challenges facing disabled adults, focusing on the victim mentality and lack of investment. They discuss the implications of Medicaid cuts, the importance of stable caregiving, and inconsistencies in the healthcare system. The conversation touches on advocacy for Medicaid improvements, physical therapy, and gym memberships. They explore vocational rehabilitation, employment challenges, and the value of early education. Personal experiences with Medicaid, the fear of losing benefits due to employment, and self-advocacy are shared. The episode also covers dating, Phillip's comedy career, and concludes with advice, comedy show details, and contact information. (0:00) Victim mentality and lack of investment in disabled adults (1:15) Episode introduction, show notes, and support encouragement (4:21) Reintroduction and recap with guest Phillip Bramwell (5:44) Concerns and implications of Medicaid cuts (10:23) Impact of attendant care on disabled individuals (13:19) Caregiving challenges and the importance of stability (19:03) Healthcare system issues and Medicaid inconsistencies (23:03) Advocacy for improved Medicaid services (25:04) The role of physical therapy and gym memberships for the disabled (26:08) Therapy coverage differences from childhood to adulthood (27:25) Personal experiences with Medicaid and state support (31:05) Vocational rehabilitation and employment challenges (34:37) Volunteer work vs. paid employment for people with disabilities (38:35) The value of early education and special programs in employment (45:19) Overcoming victim mentality and promoting self-advocacy (56:12) Dating and relationships for disabled individuals (1:00:01) Overcoming fears of benefit loss due to employment (1:03:13) Personal development in public speaking and podcasting (1:04:16) Phillip's comedy career and job search (1:06:27) Final advice and upcoming comedy show details (1:09:23) Book promotion and contact information (1:11:04) Closing remarks and episode wrap-up

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