Parenting Impossible – The Special Needs Survival Podcast Annette Hines

It can be difficult for families to find fitness classes oriented toward individuals with different abilities, whether neurodivergence or physical. However, an emerging fitness category is designed for those who need adaptive and inclusive therapy.
On this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette sits down with guest Karen Hurley, a physical therapist and strength and condition specialist with more than 20 years of experience. Karen received a bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Brown University, where she was a varsity athlete and captain of the women’s gymnastics team. She then received a master's degree in physical therapy from Boston University. Karen has worked in various settings and spent the past eight years as a districtwide physical therapist for a local school district. Karen is the founder and president of A.I.M. Therapy located in Needham, Massachusetts, which offers adaptive inclusive movement therapy, including CrossFit and functional fitness sessions for kids, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, processing challenges, and anxiety.
Annette and Karen explore Karen’s background as a physical therapist, creating connections with students, and how that ultimately led to her establishing her business, A.I.M. Therapy. You’ll also hear what makes CrossFit an inclusive and adaptable activity, who she works with, and what Unified Sports is. Karen explains how the goals of her business have changed since founding it, what makes A.I.M. unique, and why CrossFit benefits neurodiverse athletes. Finally, she outlines how A.I.M. meets clients where they’re at, her encouragement for someone hesitant to attend these classes, and what you can do to get started with adaptive and inclusive therapy in your community.
Adaptive and inclusive therapy can tremendously impact communities where it’s offered. Karen Hurley is excited to share the difference it can make for individuals with different abilities.
In this episode, you will hear:
Karen Hurley’s background working as a physical therapist with students, creating meaningful connections with them, and how that led to teaching CrossFit CrossFit as a scalable, inclusive, and adaptable activity Why Karen works primarily with individuals with disabilities and how it led her to open her own business An explanation of Unified Sports and the Special Olympics How the goals of Karen’s business have changed over time because of the importance of community A.I.M. (Adaptive Inclusive Movement) Therapy and what makes it unique from other adaptive and inclusive classes A typical day at A.I.M. Therapy What differentiates adaptive and inclusive CrossFit from traditional physical therapy CrossFit’s variability and how that benefits athletes with neurodiversity Relative high intensity scaled to meet you where you’re at, which is functional fitness The encouragement Karen gives to those who are hesitant to attend her classes Her advice for those who would like to start their own adaptive and inclusive therapy in their communities Resources from this Episode
adaptiveaimtherapy.com
www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093139387607
www.instagram.com/aim_therapy
www.linkedin.com/in/karen-hurley-9141b41a2
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Navigating the complexities of the special needs community is fraught with challenges, and the current workforce crisis in the disability sector is a cliff we're all facing together. Annette has seen firsthand how the pandemic has eroded the support program landscape as a special needs mom, attorney, and author. It's time we discuss the dire statistics and what they mean for our loved ones. The scarcity of direct support professionals (DSPs) is at a critical point.
In this episode of Parenting Impossible, we're pulling back the curtain on the harsh realities service providers are grappling with, from program cuts to the tough competition for attracting dedicated workers. Yet, amidst the stark outlook, there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon.
Annette is excited to share the recent settlement poised to relieve SSI beneficiaries and the proactive steps the Social Security Administration is taking to rectify overpayment issues. But let's not lose sight of the impending expiry of federal funding that could spell a reduction in community-based services. It's a heartfelt plea for awareness and action—we must bolster the ranks of DSPs and ensure the support structures our community relies on don't crumble. Your involvement is critical, and by sharing your thoughts and spreading the word, you can help ignite the changes we so desperately need.
Join me in this crucial conversation, and let's pave the way toward a more supportive future for those with special needs.
In this episode, you will hear:
The critical workforce crisis in the disability sector post-pandemic Some personal insights from Annette An examination of the direct support professional (DSP) shortage and service program cutbacks Recent settlements benefiting SSI beneficiaries and SSA's resolution of overpayment issues The implications of expiring federal funding from the American Rescue Plan on community-based services The need for legislative action to stabilize the DSP workforce and ensure sustainable disability support Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.
Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

As the clock struck midnight, marking the start of a new year, Annette found herself immersed in a flood of memories and significant events.


On this episode of Parenting Impossible, carrying the weight of sorrow from the loss of her beloved daughter Elizabeth but strengthened by ten years of affection and the development of the Special Needs Law Group, Annette extends an invitation to you to partake in a personal journey of transformation and the intricate process of decision-making that defines our lives. Annette shares a cherished story from her childhood, in which setting a butterfly free symbolized the infinite potential of wishes. This experience profoundly shaped her perception of influence and purpose in her life and career.


Annette communicates her hope for the coming year—a desire for empowerment and the capability to navigate the often stormy seas of social support systems. Eager to improve this process, she is excited to announce the launch of new group coaching programs designed to offer a guiding light of support, consultation, and advice beyond the scope of traditional legal services. You will sense this podcast's renewed vigor, infused with the energy to spark change and foster connections through these shared coaching experiences.


Annette welcomes everyone to join her as they confront the challenges and celebrate the victories in creating significant legacies for themselves and those they advocate for in the disability community.


In this episode, you will hear:
Reflections on a decade of personal milestones: the loss of Annette’s daughter Elizabeth, her marriage, and the growth of the Special Needs Law Group The importance of transformation and the power of choices in personal and professional life A heartfelt letter from one of Annette’s clients and the profound impact of the Special Needs Law Group on the lives of those in the disability community Annette’s New Year's wish for empowerment and enabling individuals to navigate social support systems and take control of their futures New group coaching programs offering support, consultation, and guidance to those seeking to create a secure and fulfilling plan for their lives Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Supporting Resources:
Sign up for the Special Needs Advocacy and Planning Masterclass AND Coaching Program: enroll.specialneedsfamilyservices.com/p/individuals-family-caregivers-cohort-group-coaching ***
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at
Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Sometimes, it’s essential to step back and assess the path we're on - that's exactly what I did this year. After years of fighting the impacts of a global crisis on both my personal and professional life, I made the radical decision to take a sabbatical year. A year to disconnect from “extracurriculars” and focus on my business, my team, and myself. A year to reflect on what truly brings me joy, and rediscover the activities and people I truly missed. 
Join me as I recount the unanticipated benefits of this self-imposed sabbatical. Listen to how I navigated the process of refocusing my energy, honing my business, and fostering team cohesion. I'll share how this radical change led to the acquisition of new skills and realizations about my membership community. As I look back at the past year, I'll discuss my plans to gradually reintroduce aspects of my life, emphasizing only those that truly bring me joy. I'll also share my plans to revamp this podcast and my community outreach. This episode is a must-listen if you've ever considered a sabbatical or a reset in your life.
In this episode, you will hear:
Why I decided to take a sabbatical year to refocus on my business, team, and personal growth. The impacts of the global crisis on my personal and professional life led me to the decision of a sabbatical year. Exploring new hobbies and skills, such as baking bread and playing golf. How I decided to revamp my podcast and community outreach based on the insights I gained during my sabbatical. Follow and Review:
We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.



Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Ever felt the pangs of frustration trying to navigate public spaces with a disability or care for someone who does?  This frustration fueled the journey of an extraordinary parent advocating for change, Jayme Betts who serves as the Massachusetts Chapter Leader of the Changing Spaces Campaign.  She shares an illuminating exploration of her mission to make public spaces more accessible for people with disabilities, inspired by her own experiences with her daughter, Sophia, who has Soto Syndrome.

Jayme’s story is one of determination and resilience, as she used her personal struggle to fuel her advocacy for universally accessible changing tables. With the lack of adequate facilities, she was compelled to start a chapter of Changing Spaces in Massachusetts, a national organization dedicated to enhancing accessibility in public areas. She shares her experience with the transformative impact of using a universal changing table for the first time, adding a powerful, personalized perspective that only a parent facing these challenges could offer.

Additionally, we delved into a potential solution that Jayme has championed – height-adjustable, secured changing tables with a significant support capacity. This innovation, which is set to be included in the International Building Code for 2024, could revolutionize the lives of individuals with disabilities. Jayme gives listeners a glimpse into her world of advocacy as she recounts her experience testifying before a joint committee, providing a firsthand understanding of the battles and triumphs on the road to making public spaces more accessible. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who seeks to understand more about the need for inclusivity and accessibility in our everyday spaces.
Learn more about the Changing Spaces Campaign in Massachusetts:
Website: https://www.changingspacescampaign.com/machapter
Link Tree with Resources: https://linktr.ee/changing_spaces_ma
Instagram: https://instagram.com/changing_spaces_ma
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089054724819
Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

What's one of the biggest issues most special needs families worry about?  Housing.   This episode unlocks the complexities of the intricate world of housing for those with some form of intellectual or developmental disability or (IDD) with the help of special guest, Pam Blanton, founder and CEO of Partners4Housing.   Tune in to discover how Partners4Housing is changing the lives of families in Washington state by empowering families to create housing solutions that meet the unique needs of their loved ones with IDD and create a real solution for the future.

Hear about Partners4Housing's unique roommate matching pool and shared living development services, and also dive into the challenges and strategies of a family-driven housing model. The figure of the caregiver stands central to our discussion as we unpack the various aspects of caregiver supports available and the importance of making the right choice. Housing issues can often feel daunting, but we've got you covered with discussions on Medicaid waivers and housing vouchers, serving up practical solutions for families in need.

To cap it all off, we take a deep look into shared living for families and how to navigate through the legalities of setting up a home for a loved one with special needs. From landlord-tenant law to caregiver agreements and household budgets, we've got it all covered. And don't miss out on learning about our Circle of Care on Mighty Networks - a refreshing platform for our disability community to connect, learn, and share experiences. This episode holds key insights for anyone looking to understand better the housing landscape for adults with disabilities, so sit back, relax and let's get the conversation started.
Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.