00:00 – The Day Everything Changed

Steve and Cheryl share the deeply personal story of the autism diagnosis that changed their family forever.

05:00 – The Early Signs

What they noticed before the diagnosis — and the subtle indicators that something wasn’t quite right.

10:00 – Keeping It Inside

The internal struggle, fear, and hesitation to voice concerns out loud.

15:00 – “Have You Heard of Autism Spectrum Disorder?”

The doctor’s words that marked a turning point — and the shock that followed.

20:00 – Processing the Diagnosis

The emotional impact of hearing the word “autism” and what that meant for their future.

25:00 – Every Autism Journey Is Different

Why comparison is dangerous — and how understanding the spectrum changed their perspective.

30:00 – Public Misunderstanding & Judgment

Facing outside criticism and the emotional strength required to protect your child.

35:00 – The Decision That Changed Everything

A critical choice that shaped Harry’s long-term development and outcome.

40:00 – Legal Guardianship & Future Planning

Why long-term planning matters — and how guardianship plays a role in protecting your child.

45:00 – Growing as Parents

How the journey reshaped them as individuals and strengthened their resolve.

50:00 – Lessons for Other Parents

What they would tell families walking through a new diagnosis today.

55:00 – A Difficult Journey — With Hope

Reflection, resilience, and encouragement for parents navigating autism.

In Episode 4 of Remarkable Futures, Stephen and Cheryl Norton share the story of the day everything changed — the day they received their child’s autism diagnosis.

They open up about the emotions, uncertainty, and pivotal decisions that followed, offering insight into what families experience in those early stages of special needs parenting.

This episode explores:
• Processing a new autism diagnosis
• Navigating fear and uncertainty
• The importance of early planning
• Finding strength as a family
• Taking the first steps toward a secure future

For parents, caregivers, and professionals working with special needs families, this conversation offers honesty, clarity, and encouragement.

Because while a diagnosis changes everything, it can also become the beginning of a remarkable future.

Welcome to the first episode of Remarkable Futures.

In this introductory episode, host Steve Norton explains why this podcast was created and who it’s for—families navigating financial planning for individuals with disabilities.

Steve shares what listeners can expect in future episodes, including conversations with parents, professionals, and advocates, as well as practical guidance around long-term planning, ABLE accounts, and building financial confidence.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or well into planning, Remarkable Futures is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

In Episode 3 of Remarkable Futures, we answer a critical question for special needs families: When do you hire an advocate, and when do you need an attorney?

Andrew Feinstein and Terry Bedard explain the differences, discuss navigating IEP meetings, and outline how families can protect their child’s educational rights.

This episode offers clarity for parents facing school-related challenges and difficult educational decisions.

Welcome to the first episode of Remarkable Futures.

In this introductory episode, host Steve Norton explains why this podcast was created and who it’s for—families navigating financial planning for individuals with disabilities.

Steve shares what listeners can expect in future episodes, including conversations with parents, professionals, and advocates, as well as practical guidance around long-term planning, ABLE accounts, and building financial confidence.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or well into planning, Remarkable Futures is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

00:00 IEP Meeting Mistakes Parents Don’t Realize They’re Making

04:30 What Schools Are Required to Provide Under IDEA Law

09:15 How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting the Right Way

14:20 Understanding IEP Goals and Measurable Progress

19:10 When to Push Back in an IEP Meeting

24:05 The Role of an IEP Advocate Explained

29:00 Warning Signs Your Child’s IEP Isn’t Working

34:10 Parent Rights in Special Education

39:20 How to Document Concerns Before the Meeting

44:00 What to Do After the IEP Meeting Ends

48:30 Final Advice for Parents Navigating Special Education

In Episode 2 of Remarkable Futures, Terry Bedard discusses the critical steps families must take when planning for a child with special needs.

This conversation explores common mistakes, guardianship decisions, protecting benefits like SSI and Medicaid, and why early planning provides long-term security.

Designed for parents seeking clarity and direction, this episode offers practical insight into building a stable future.

Welcome to the first episode of Remarkable Futures.

In this introductory episode, host Steve Norton explains why this podcast was created and who it’s for—families navigating financial planning for individuals with disabilities.

Steve shares what listeners can expect in future episodes, including conversations with parents, professionals, and advocates, as well as practical guidance around long-term planning, ABLE accounts, and building financial confidence.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or well into planning, Remarkable Futures is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Remarkable Futures is a podcast for families navigating the financial, emotional, and practical realities of planning for a loved one with special needs.
Hosted by Stephen Norton of Able Planning, the show brings real conversations to the forefront—about long-term care, independence, advocacy, and peace of mind.
In this first episode, Stephen is joined by Helen Bosch and Marty Schwartz, parents who share their personal journey navigating life and planning for a loved one with special needs. They speak candidly about the questions they didn’t know to ask, the challenges they faced along the way, and the lessons they wish they had learned sooner.
Their story reflects what so many families experience—uncertainty, resilience, and the deep responsibility of wanting to do the right thing for someone you love.
This episode sets the foundation for the Remark(able) Futures podcast. It’s not about products or quick answers. It’s about listening, learning, and planning with intention.
If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional supporting individuals with disabilities, this podcast is here to inform, encourage, and remind you: you are not alone—and your story matters.

Welcome to the first episode of Remarkable Futures.

In this introductory episode, host Steve Norton explains why this podcast was created and who it’s for—families navigating financial planning for individuals with disabilities.

Steve shares what listeners can expect in future episodes, including conversations with parents, professionals, and advocates, as well as practical guidance around long-term planning, ABLE accounts, and building financial confidence.

Whether you’re just starting your journey or well into planning, Remarkable Futures is here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.