In this episode of IDD Health Matters, Dr. Craig Escudé sits down with long-time advocate and leader Shelly Chandler to explore a lifetime of service and passion in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). From growing up immersed in the world of special education to running provider agencies and leading the Iowa Association of Community Providers for 17 years, Shelly shares how her personal and professional journey continues to influence better health outcomes for individuals with IDD.

Recorded live at the Kansas InterHab Conference, this conversation dives into the challenges of bridging communication gaps between providers, healthcare professionals, and managed care organizations—and why learning to "speak the same language" is essential for improving equity in healthcare. Shelly also offers key advice on building human-centered relationships, listening without assumptions, and staying relentless in the pursuit of opportunity and dignity for every person with IDD.

🎧 Tune in to hear:

• Shelly's insights from four decades in the field

• The critical role of communication in healthcare equity

• Why managed care needs to learn the language of IDD supports

• Her three powerful pieces of advice for advocates and professionals alike

Learn more in the show notes and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations that move the needle toward health equity.