Life In The Ted Lane

Autumn Plans, HCBS Benefits Appeal, And Halloween Audio Fun

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Autumn brings momentum—and a little mischief. We’re sending a compact update packed with big announcements: real progress on a benefits appeal that affects daily life, and a creative sprint toward Halloween with a brand-new horror audio piece in the works. Think of this one like a voice note from friends on a crisp evening walk: quick, warm, and full of hints about what’s coming next.We share why a stipulated agreement with the Department of Human Services matters, and what “cautiously optimistic” looks like when the outcome supports Ted’s home and community based services. Next we shift into the art of fear. We’re entering the 11th Hour Audio Challenge, crafting a scary story that leans on sound design, pacing, and the eerie intimacy of headphones. Expect callbacks to our earlier piece Martin’s Glaring, inspired by the classic tale Wait Till Martin Comes, plus a special Halloween release you’ll want to queue up after dark.There’s more: a tease of a ghost encounter in Cape May, New Jersey—historic streets by day, whispers by night. No Muppet news this round, but plenty of October joy, Philly pride, and an open invitation to shape what we make next.We want this to be a two-way conversation. Tap the link in the show notes to ask questions, share your own spooky tales, or tell us what you’d like to hear when the longer, juicier episode lands. If this update made your walk fly by, follow the show, leave a quick review, and share it with a friend who loves fall, folklore, and real-life wins. For more information, visit us at 6630 Productions Write us a review on Podchaser or Apple Podcasts May your life be filled with magic!

Benefits, Gonzo in a Dress, and Upcycling; a Catch‑Up

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. A benefits renewal went sideways, and the fallout hit hard: cognitive rehabilitation therapy vanished, routines unraveled, and a household had to rebuild momentum from the ground up. We open the door on that process—what the county measured, what they missed, and why “not qualifying for nursing home care” doesn’t equal “no support needed.” You’ll hear the steps we’re taking to appeal, how we’re tracking needs in plain language, and the small scaffolds that keep a day moving when executive function stalls.Between phone trees and forms, we chased curiosity. A trip to the Academy of Natural Sciences became a case study in sensory‑smart planning, from loud summer camps to quiet corners with dioramas. We dug into the fashion waste crisis—yes, a garbage truck of clothing goes to landfills every second—along with hands‑on ideas for upcycling that double as calming, creative routines. At the Ambler YMCA pool, we talk accessibility, simple rules, and why familiar community spaces can be the best therapy you don’t have to call therapy.Then we shift to culture and policy. We assess the proposed Caesars Palace in Times Square through a Broadway lens—jobs promised, neighborhood character at risk, and lessons remembered from Atlantic City. Muppet fans get double servings: RunDisney’s “12Ks of Christmas” celebration and a reported Disney+ special with Sabrina Carpenter that could revive the classic variety format. We untangle viral claims about PBS funding cuts (spoiler: not about Gonzo in a dress) and point to the larger, long‑running effort to weaken public media that supports education and inclusion. Finally, we spotlight a new Temple Grandin documentary and the power of different minds to solve real problems, connecting the dots with stories that teach acceptance—from Mr. Rogers’ Planet Purple to the Sneetches.We close with a porch‑level parable: our hand‑painted mini library was taken, a neighbor responded with a flood of books, and we’re rebuilding with better safeguards and bigger hearts. If you’ve navigated waivers, fought for cognitive rehab, or built resilient sharing in your neighborhood, we want to learn from you. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs practical hope, and leave a review—your notes help others find a roadmap when the system says wait.More info:PA Health Law Project Broadway marquees will decry proposed Times Square casinoSeth Rogen Revives ‘The Muppet Show’ as a Disney+ Special Starring Sabrina CarpenterDocumentary Explores Life Of Temple GrandinWritten, hosted, and edited by Ted Harris. Co-hosted and co-edited by Lindsay Harris Friel.Theme Music by Vincent Friel.Additional music by Apple Logic Loops.   For more information, visit us at 6630 Productions Write us a review on Podchaser or Apple Podcasts May your life be filled with magic!

Look For The Helpers: Endangered Zoo Babies, Arts for Autism Benefit, and a Health & Human Services Announcement

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. The animal kingdom delivers a profound lesson in resilience at the Philadelphia Zoo, where we witnessed history in the making. Four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings—the first in the zoo's 150-year existence—represent an extraordinary conservation breakthrough. The parents, century-old "Mommy" and "Abrazo," demonstrate that it's never too late to contribute to species survival. These tiny miracles, initially weighing no more than chicken eggs, embody hope for a threatened species. Learn more about the Galapagos Tortoise Hatchlings at the Philadelphia Zoo. Beyond the conservation triumph, we explored the zoo's sensory-friendly spaces that make wildlife encounters accessible for everyone. The Treehouse area provides a peaceful retreat for autistic members needing respite from stimulation. We share practical strategies for creating an enjoyable zoo experience: visit early on weekdays, utilize quiet zones for breaks, consider noise-canceling headphones, and embrace a relaxed pace rather than rushing through exhibits. The "Zootopiaries" – plant sculptures shaped as animals – offer a unique perspective on environmental stewardship and our relationship with nature.Meanwhile, Broadway stars will gather for the Arts for Autism benefit concert at New Amsterdam Theatre on June 16th, with proceeds supporting autism organizations. Learn more at Arts for Autism. The Muppets celebrate their 70th anniversary this May, with Disney preserving Jim Henson's final project, Muppet Vision 3D, for the archives. We recorded this before May 9, but you can celebrate every day. Learn more: Disney Filming MuppetVision 3D for Archival Ahead of Closure, Digital Future PossibleOn a more concerning note, the Department of Health and Human Services plans to create a database using Medicare and Medicaid patient data to study autism causes, raising serious privacy concerns among experts and advocates. During challenging times, we find wisdom in Mr. Rogers' advice to "look for the helpers" – those dedicated individuals working to create a more inclusive world.  Source: HHS plan to use Medicare and Medicaid data to study autism alarms experts, by Berkeley Lovelace Jr., Erika Edwards and Akshay Syal, M.D. for NBC NewsHave you encountered someone making positive changes for the autistic community? Share their story with us for an upcoming episode!Written and edited by Ted Harris. Writing and editing assistance by Lindsay Harris Friel. Music by Vincent Friel.  For more information, visit us at 6630 Productions Write us a review on Podchaser or Apple Podcasts May your life be filled with magic!

Exploring Theater and Autism, Dismantling Vaccine Myths, and Honoring Jim Henson's Legacy

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Ted Harris invites us into his vibrant world as he shares his transformative journey at Theater Horizon, a professional theater offering specialized programs for people with autism. Through games, performance, and community, Ted's pursuing his Broadway dreams while developing crucial social skills. His enthusiasm radiates as he describes finding a place where he can truly express himself among peers who understand his experience.The conversation shifts to a passionate critique of how South by Southwest has evolved from championing independent artists to becoming an exclusive playground for the wealthy. Ted's advocacy for accessible creative expression reveals his deep belief that art should be available to everyone, regardless of resources or connections.A highlight emerges when Ted explores the upcoming 70th anniversary of the Muppets in May 2025. Despite Disney's lack of celebration plans, Ted and his sister Lindsay enthusiastically brainstorm delightful ways fans could honor Jim Henson's legacy—from Muppet movie marathons to themed parties featuring "Kermit Cupcakes" and "Miss Piggy Punch." Their joy in planning these celebrations mirrors the wonderfully imaginative spirit of the Muppets themselves.Drawing from Jim Henson's biography, Ted distills a powerful philosophy: "When in doubt, make art. When you're happy, make art. When you're sad, make art." This mantra of creative expression as a response to life's circumstances beautifully captures Ted's own approach to navigating the world.The episode takes a meaningful turn when Ted emphatically addresses harmful misinformation, stating repeatedly that vaccines do not cause autism. His personal reflection on autism as "a blessing in disguise" celebrates neurodiversity and the unique perspectives it brings—a refreshing counterpoint to damaging narratives that often circulate.Connect with us on Instagram @LifeintheTedLane or email info@663productions.com to share your Muppet celebration ideas, questions, or artwork. We'd love to feature your contributions and continue this conversation about creativity, inclusion, and embracing what makes each of us uniquely wonderful. For more information, visit us at 6630 Productions Write us a review on Podchaser or Apple Podcasts May your life be filled with magic!

Fin-tastic Adventures, Autistic Fire Hero, and Muppets vs. The LA Wildfires

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Dive into an underwater journey as we recount our adventures at the Adventure Aquarium! We met fascinating marine animals, including sharks, hippopotami, and adorable blue penguins. Ted shares heartfelt insights about marine conservation and why nurturing our environment is crucial. We highlight a young hero with autism who took quick action during a fire emergency, showcasing real-life applications of safety skills that every family should know. Learn how autism helped him follow safety procedures without becoming overwhelmed. We also explore the intersection of Hollywood and autism advocacy as we discuss an upcoming event to benefit the autistic community. We invite you to join us, engaging in the conversation between fun and important life lessons. Recommended resources: Adventure AquariumThe Muppet Script at Muppet FandomHolland 12-year-old with Autism honored for putting out house fire (WTVG News)Night of Too Many Stars and Next for Autism For more information, visit us at 6630 Productions Write us a review on Podchaser or Apple Podcasts May your life be filled with magic!