Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
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Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
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EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
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Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
All content for Kessler Foundation Podcasts is the property of Kessler Foundation and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
=====================================================================================
EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
Creating a New Vision for Life with Spinal Cord Injury
Kessler Foundation Podcasts
1 hour 22 minutes 18 seconds
1 month ago
Creating a New Vision for Life with Spinal Cord Injury
Welcome to this special podcast series for people living with paralysis due to spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or related conditions and their families. We know that finding a new path forward can be challenging, but through expert talks and peer discussions, we’re here to help you set meaningful goals and take actions to experience a fulfilling life—whether in health, recreation, family, work, or community.
Our first event, "Creating a New Vision for Life with Spinal Cord Injury," features Reveca Torres, founder of BACKBONES, who shares insights on identity and goal setting. You’ll also hear from inspiring BACKBONES Leaders who offer real-life stories and practical tips for navigating your journey and achieving your goals.
Join us to explore resources, strategies, and research opportunities that empower you and your loved ones to create positive change—both personally and in your community. Together, we’ll build new paths forward with hope and determination.
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Podcast Timestamps:
00:04 – Welcome by Jeanne Zanca, MPT, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Jeanne-Zanca
01:19 – Reveca Torres
04:54 – Panel Discussion with Shante Nelson, Andrew Lewis, Michael Maruzzi
1:00:21 - Episode Wrap-Up with Jeanne Zanca, MPT, PhD and Announcer
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Guest speaker:
Reveca Torres, founder of BACKBONES, https://www.linkedin.com/in/reveca-torres-539b816/
Panel:
BACKBONES Leaders Program members, https://www.backbonesonline.org
LEARN more about this event series:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2025-spinal-cord-injury-community-event-series
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TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SCI RESEARCH:
LISTEN to more podcasts:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/spinal-cord-injury-research
EXPLORE our website:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-spinal-cord-injury-research
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
===========================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in July 2025.
===========================================
Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
Kessler Foundation Podcasts
Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
=====================================================================================
EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
