Podcasts about disability advocate

“The whole purpose of the book is to kind of reach kids who might be experiencing some difficulties in life, whether they feel isolated or alone, or maybe they're special needs. So, I really wanted there to be more out there that is inclusive.” – T. L. McCoyToday's featured award-winning, bestselling author is a wife, glam-mom, U.S. Air Force veteran, registered nurse, former educator, and the founder of Blue Round Book Group, LLC, T. L. McCoy. We had a fun on a bun chat about her first book, “Delilah Versus the Ghastly Grim”, her journey from military service and living in Japan to becoming a psychiatric nurse and educator, the importance of inclusion in literature, and more!!Key Things You'll Learn:The benefits and challenges of military lifeHow her experience as a teacher for children with behavioral and developmental disabilities helped her support her grandchild diagnosed with Dravet syndromeWhat she learned about herself through writing her bookThe impact of Dravet syndrome on families and the importance of support and awarenessTL's Site: https://blueroundbookgroup.com/TL's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0F925Z2RP/allbooksThe opening track is titled, “Unknown From M.E. | Sonic Adventure 2 ~ City Pop Remix” by Iridium Beats. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://www.patreon.com/posts/sonic-adventure-136084016 Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…Ep. 484 – “What's Wrong with My Child” with Elizabeth Harris (@elizabethwwwmc): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-484-whats-wrong-with-my-child-with-elizabeth-harris-elizabethwwwmc/Ep. 710 – “Trusting Your Mommy Instincts” with Colleen Faul: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-710-trusting-your-mommy-instincts-with-colleen-faul/Ep. 389 – “Unshakable, Undaunted, & Undefeated” with Elizabeth Meyers (@thelizmeyers): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-389-unshakable-undaunted-undefeated/Ep. 463 – “Crushed” with Linda Bjork (@Linda_Bjork_1): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-463-crushed-with-linda-bjork-linda_bjork_1/247 – “Cozy Mysteries & Inclusive Children's Books” with Kelly Brakenhoff (@inBrakenVille): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/247-cozy-mysteries-inclusive-childrens-books-with-kelly-brakenhoff-inbrakenville/Ep. 969 – Music, Memoirs, and Making a Difference As a Disability Advocate with Jenna Udenberg: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-969-music-memoirs-and-making-a-difference-as-a-disability-advocate-with-jenna-udenberg/Ep. 844 – Different But Special with Owen Rex Daughtry (@daughtry_owen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-844-different-but-special-with-owen-rex-daughtry-daughtry_owen/Ep. 494 – “Living With Cerebral Palsy & Inspiring Others to Achieve the Extraordinary” with Christopher Powell (@overcomelimits): https://shorturl.at/k5evfEp. 344.5 – “Poohlicious” with Mary Elizabeth Jackson (@Mary_E_Jackson): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-3445-poohlicious-with-mary-elizabeth-jackson-mary_e_jackson/Ep. 385 – “From Wheels to Heals” with Barby Ingle (@BarbyIngle): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-385-from-wheels/Ep. 471 – “How to Turn Suffering Into Something Good” with Darci Steiner (@DarciJSteiner): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-471-how-to-turn-suffering-into-something-good-with-darci-steiner-darcijsteiner/Ep. 918 – From the Boxing Ring to the Book Page with Craig Stilley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-918-from-the-boxing-ring-to-the-book-page-with-craig-stilley/

Mandeep Lotta is a Kenyan-born poet and author who overcame physical impairment and blindness to share a message of compassion and human connection through his poetry collections Magic mines: The Treasure of Love. His work explores how love is often misunderstood and commodified, reminding readers to slow down, understand one another, and let love grow naturally. Through his personal story of resilience, he shows how disability does not define one's capacity to inspire and create meaning.In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Mandeep discusses how life experiences, pain, and perseverance shape his poetry and worldview. He shares insights on the misconceptions people have about relationships, the importance of openness and communication, and how ambition fuels purpose even through hardship. His journey encourages listeners to embrace their vulnerabilities, own their stories, and find fulfillment through empathy and creativity. Quotes: “Love grows when you give it time and space to breathe.” “I own my blindness. It's not a weakness; it's my identity.” “Life is the vehicle. Ambition is the fuel.” “When you open up, you give others permission to do the same.” Resources: Get "Magic Mines: The Treasure of Love" on Amazon

A disability advocate who relies on social media for his work has had his long-standing Facebook account shut down for unspecified reasons. Ruth Hill reports.

A disability advocate is wanting answers over why his Facebook account has been suspended - joining a growing number of people shut out of social media accounts. Dr Rachel Faleatua spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Disability Advocate, Blogger (The Able Diary), and founder of Disability Matters; Sophie Hagy. We talked with Sophie about the shooting that resulted in the death of her friend Alex and her winding up with a spinal cord injury, the awful medical treatment she was provided early on in her injury, and being able to reenter rehab a couple of years post injury and how much more beneficial that was to her. We also discussed how she dealt with the mental strain this injury puts on you, the decision to start blogging and launch The Able Diary, and designing clothing and other goods for the company she founded; Disability Matters. Connect with Sophie at the links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Sophie Hagy: IG: @sophiexhagy TikTok: @sophie_hagy The Able Diary: https://www.theablediary.com/ Disability Matters: https://www.etsy.com/shop/disabilitymatters/?etsrc=sdt&dd_referrer= Gofundme: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-for-sophie-hagy/donate?utm_campaign=unknown&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=linktr.ee  

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This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Erica Predum who is a Disability Advocate, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, and in the Cofounder of Next Step Fort Wayne. We talked with Erica about the car accident that left her paralyzed, the massive challenges she went through during her rehab from the injury, and the tragic loss of her mother less than a year after her accident. We also spoke about overcoming the massive obstacles that were put in her way, the help she was given through the Walking With Anthony Foundation, and her motivation for starting Next Step Fort Wayne. Connect with Erica at the social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Erica Predum/Next Step Fort Wayne: IG: @nextstepfortwayne       @epredum FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576275480349     https://www.facebook.com/erica.lynn.992976    

What happens when the worst moment of your childhood becomes the catalyst for a lifetime of creative power, advocacy, and audacious dreams? In this episode of Wickedly Smart Women, host Anjel B. Hartwell welcomes Lolita Milena, a paraplegic actress, author, and digital creator whose journey from Siberia to the stages of America is nothing short of extraordinary. In this deeply honest conversation, Lolita opens up about transmuting trauma into purpose through dark humor, sisterhood, and relentless creativity. We dive into the hard truths about the U.S. foster care system, what actually keeps kids safe, and how she's building a sustainable creator business while staying true to her mission.  Whether you're interested in disability representation in media, survivor advocacy, or simply how to build an audience that truly cares, this episode delivers proof that your darkest moments don't have to dictate your future.   What You Will Learn: How to turn trauma into creative fuel without letting it consume you through dance, theater, writing, and digital storytelling. Why dark humor became Lolita's survival tool and how she uses comedy to bridge grief and agency while always punching up, never down. The real problems in the U.S. foster care system that most people never hear about, from understaffing to inadequate background checks. A smart awareness strategy for child abuse prevention that starts with people who don't know what they don't know and equips them to share. The difference between performative activism and tangible action, and why survivors need both to create real change. How to build a multi-interest audience that sticks with you by leading with story first, niche second. The meaning behind 2,4,5,9 as Lolita's sci-fi novel title and how she honors family through art and memory. A simple two-part self-soothing practice for hard days using oldies or folk music that grounds your body and soul. Why nuance and independent thinking matter more than ever when you're advocating for systems change.   Connect with Lolita Milena Instagram  TikTok   Connect with Anjel B. Hartwell Wickedly Smart Women Wickedly Smart Women on X Wickedly Smart Women on Instagram Wickedly Smart Women Facebook Community Wickedly Smart Women Store on TeePublic Wickedly Smart Women: Trusting Intuition, Taking Action, Transforming Worlds by Anjel B. Hartwell Listener Line (540) 402-0043 Ext. 4343  Email listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com  

The USA Today bestseller “Bury Your Gays” by Chuck Tingle explores what it takes to succeed in a world that wants you dead. Jacob Shymanski and Aamer Khan review the book and explore its themes, its variety of writing styles and its potential to become adapted into a movie.  In the latter portion of the show, Jacob chats with first-time author Valerie D. Maidment about her 2024 memoir “From Daylight to Dark: Finding Work in an Inaccessible World.”   This episode was produced by Andrika De Lanerolle.  Audiobook Café is broadcast on AMI-audio in Canada and publishes two new podcast episodes a week on Saturdays and Sundays.Follow Audiobook Café on Instagram @AMIAudiobookCafe We want your feedback!Be that comments, suggestions, hot-takes, audiobook recommendations or reviews of your own… hit us up! Our email address is: AudiobookCafe@ami.ca About AMIAMI is a media company that entertains, informs and empowers Canadians with disabilities through three broadcast services — AMI-tv and AMI-audio in English and AMI-télé in French — and streaming platform AMI+. Our vision is to establish AMI as a leader in the offering of accessible content, providing a voice for Canadians with disabilities through authentic storytelling, representation and positive portrayal. To learn more visit AMI.ca and AMItele.ca.Find more great AMI Original Content on AMI+Learn more at AMI.caConnect with Accessible Media Inc. online:X /Twitter @AccessibleMediaInstagram @AccessibleMediaInc / @AMI-audioFacebook at @AccessibleMediaIncTikTok @AccessibleMediaInc Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we are lucky enough to visit with Emily Powell who is a Disability Advocate, Licensed Professional Counselor, and a Spinal Cord Injury Survivor. We spoke with Emily about the tragic car accident two days after her 16th birthday that left her paralyzed, the grit and determination it took for her to earn a Masters Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and the incredible support she received from her family, especially early on after her accident. We also talked about the devastating loss of her boyfriend Zach in a hit-and-run accident, the courage it takes to live on your own as a quadriplegic, and her amazing dog Azul. Connect with Emily at the social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Emily Powell: IG: @emiii21 FB: https://www.facebook.com/emily.powell.7731 Tik-Tok: @Theoneandonlyemilypowell

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Snellbaker, better known as Nicki Whitechoc who is an Entrepreneur, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, Disability Advocate, and Founder of Nicki Strong. We spoke with Nicki about the car accident that left her paralyzed in 2003, laughing at the doctors when they told her she would never walk again, and turning daily tasks into outpatient therapy. We also discussed the immense friend/family support she's had, what Nicki Strong is all about, and sharing her story through social media. Connects with Nicki at the links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Nicki Whitechoc/Nicki Strong: IG: @nicki_whitechoc      @nicki.strong https://gofund.me/015d423a

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Derek Demun who is an Adventurer, Disability Advocate, and Spinal Cord Injury Survivor. We spoke about the work accident that left Derek paralyzed at the T8 level, transitioning from snowboarding around the world to hunting/fishing all over the country, and how important his family support was and still is after his injury. We also talked about some of the crazier experiences he's had since finding his love for hunting and fishing, having his dad with him on a lot of his trips, and fighting workers compensation in the state of California for the last 11 years. Connect with Derek and his social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Derek Demun: IG: @t8_outdoorsman Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@T8_OUTDOORSMAN https://linktr.ee/t8_outdoorsman  

In this WYSO Youth Radio episode, high schooler Tobias Ashlock interviews his mentor Tracey Schalk about navigating life with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC).

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Trish Brookes who is a Spinal Cord Injury Survivor and Disability Advocate. We chatted about the sequence of events that led to her spinal cord injury, Trish's work fundraising for the Spinal Injuries Association, and the impact the SIA has on the spinal cord injury community in the UK. We also talked about some of the fundraising adventures she's had up to this point, including diving with sharks, rifle shooting competitions, reppelling down a 100 foot building, and this year's upcoming challenge of competing in a Marvel Superhero themed triathlon. Connect with Trish and the Spinal Injuries Association at the links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Trish Brookes: IG: @trish.brookes.3       @spinal_injuries FB: @trish.brookes.3       @spinalinjuriesassociation https://www.justgiving.com/page/trish-brookes-7?utm_medium=FA&utm_source=IG  

About this episode:  Medicaid cuts from the recent budget reconciliation law are raising fears of cutbacks among Americans with disabilities who rely on the program for services that allow them to live independently. In this episode: Demi Eckhoff, who has a rare form of muscular dystrophy, and who relies on Medicaid in North Carolina, explains the uncertainty and what people with disabilities are doing to advocate for themselves. Guest: Demi Eckhoff, MPH, is a disability advocate, a registered dietitian, and an incoming doctoral student at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Host: Dr. Josh Sharfstein is vice dean for public health practice and community engagement at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, a faculty member in health policy, a pediatrician, and former secretary of Maryland's Health Department. Show links and related content: Disabled Americans Fear What Medicaid Cuts Could Do to Them—New York Times Five Ways the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill' Could Make It More Difficult to Get Health Insurance in N.C.—The Assembly America's Caregiver Crisis—Public Health On Call (July 2025) The Potential Impacts of Cuts To Medicaid—Public Health On Call (March 2025) Transcript information: Click here for a transcript of this episode. Contact us: Have a question about something you heard? Looking for a transcript? Want to suggest a topic or guest? Contact us via email or visit our website. Follow us: @‌PublicHealthPod on Bluesky @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Instagram @‌JohnsHopkinsSPH on Facebook @‌PublicHealthOnCall on YouTube Here's our RSS feed Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.

The Smart 7 is an award winning daily podcast, in association with METRO that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week...With over 18 million downloads and consistently charting, including as No. 1 News Podcast on Spotify, we're a trusted source for people every day and the Sunday 7 won a Gold Award as “Best Conversation Starter” in the International Signal Podcast Awards If you're enjoying it, please follow, share, or even post a review, it all helps...Today's episode includes the following guests:Guests Yuji Iwasawa - The President on the International Court of Justice, The HagueRalph Regenvanu - Climate Minister for the Pacific Island State of Vanuatu Antonio Guterres - UN Secretary General Will Guyatt - The Smart 7's Tech Guru Tilly Lockey - Influencer, Disability Advocate and Bionic Woman Michael Shanks MP - UK Energy Minister Paul DeGedler - Shark Conservation Activist and host of “How to Survive a Shark Attack”Kinga Philipps - Travel journalist and host of “Dancing with the Sharks”Jessica Toale MP - Member of Cross Party Lobby Group for DES Victims Professor Karen Millinger - Expert in Neuro Imaging at the University of Nottingham Hans Skov - Board member of the organisation Stork Denmark Contact us over @TheSmart7pod or visit www.thesmart7.com or find out more at www.metro.co.uk Presented by Ciara Revins, written by Liam Thompson, researched by Lucie Lewis and produced by Daft Doris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we were lucky enough to visit with Disability Advocate, Racecar Driver, and Spinal Cord Injury Survivor; Torsten Gross. I spoke to Torsten about the diving accident in The Bahamas that left him paralyzed more than 30 years ago, how he became the world's first paralyzed rescue diver, and the unique story of how he became a racecar driver and the fire that lived under him to start the Just Hands Foundation to bring that experience to other people battling with mobility issues. We also talked about the new Amazon documentary series releasing on 7/31, Just Hands: For the Love of Racing. We also discussed the just hands foundation venturing into mountain bike riding, and the amazing bikes and wheelchairs that Bowhead Reach is making Connect with Torsten and the Just Hands Foundation at the links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Torsten Gross/Just Hands Foundation: https://www.torstengross.com/ https://www.justhands.org/ IG: @torstenfgross      @justhandsfoundation FB:  @torstenfgross        @justhandsfoundation YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@justhands  

In this episode, we are joined by romance author, disability advocate, and writer of “fiercely inclusive happy endings,” Evie Mitchell! Evie is the author of multiple series across many romance subgenres, including small-town romance, biker romance, bodyguard romance. Her small-town romance series, All Access, focuses on disabled characters as romantic leads! We had a wonderful conversation with Evie and are excited to share this episode during Disability Pride Month. We asked Evie about her journey to becoming an author, why she got into indie publishing, learn more about her personal experiences have influenced her writing, talk about what inclusivity means to her (and to us), touch on the importance of sensitivity readers, expert readers, and editors, and much more! Visit Evie's website to learn more and check out Evie's books on Kobo.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Michelle Keshk who is a Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, Disability Advocate, Artist, and Ambassador Coordinator at the Triumph Foundation. We talked to Michelle about the freak accident that left her paralyzed, documenting her journey through this injury on social media, and how she doesn't let the injury get in the way of living her best life. We also chatted about how she connected with the Triumph Foundation, using her artwork as therapy, and the importance of the art she makes through her business Begin Within Creations. Connect with Michelle at her social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Michelle Keshk/Begin Within Creations: IG:  @meesh.peace       @beginwithincreations       @beginwithinbodyart www.etsy.com/shop/BeginWithinCreations   FB: @michellekeshk TikTok: @meeshpeace

Hi Team, I’m under the PhD pump at the moment, but I’ll be back tomorrow with a brand new ep. Today we’re revisiting one of my favourite chats and favourite people Dr. Dinesh Palipana, who since this recording was named Queensland, Australian of the Year (2021). *Medical Doctor, Lawyer, Disability Advocate, Researcher, TED Speaker and Order of Australia recipient Dinesh Palipana does life from a wheelchair because half way through his medical training, a car accident left him a quadriplegic. He is a truly remarkable human with a truly remarkable story. For me, this conversation was a privilege and if there was an ounce of self-pity in me before this podcast, it’s definitely gone now. If you know someone who needs some inspiration, hope and maybe perspective, please share this with them. Enjoy. youtube.com/watch?v=9GxtQo1Xj-sSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the opportunity to visit with friend of the podcast, Tyler Dunham. Tyler is a Wheelchair Bodybuilder, Disability Advocate, Stem Cell Recipient, and a Spinal Cord Injury Survivor. I spoke with Tyler about taking part in the 2025 NPC Wheelchair Nationals Bodybuilding competition, how he's been feeling a year or so after receiving stem cells, his continuing goal of checking out wheelchair accommodations that NFL and NBA arenas, and his future plans and bodybuilding and in life. Connect with Tyler at his Instagram link below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Tyler Dunham: IG: @tyler_duhman90

Actress & Disability Advocate Geri Jewell Bio   Geri Jewell is an American actress, comedian, motivational speaker, and author, known for her groundbreaking roles that have helped increase disability awareness in Hollywood and beyond .  The following is a brief overview of her life and career: Early Life: Geri Jewell was born on September 13, 1956, in Buffalo, New York. She was born prematurely and spent her first three months in an incubator, unable to be physically touched due to beliefs about caring for premature babies at the time. Career Beginnings: After dropping out of college, Jewell began her career in stand-up comedy at The Comedy Store in Hollywood in 1978. "The Facts of Life": In 1980, Jewell became the first actress with a visible disability to have a recurring role on a prime-time series, playing Cousin Geri on "The Facts of Life". Producer Norman Lear discovered her at the 2nd Annual Media Access Awards and personally chose her for the role. Other Roles: Jewell has appeared in other TV shows, such as "Deadwood," "21 Jump Street," "The Young and the Restless," and "Glee". She also appeared in "Deadwood: The Movie" in 2019. Advocacy and Motivational Speaking: Jewell is a leading advocate for disability rights and awareness. She is a motivational speaker who promotes understanding of disabilities and diversity for Fortune 500 companies. She is also one of the original trainers for the internationally recognized disability awareness program, WINDMILLS. Author: Jewell wrote an autobiography titled "I'm Walking As Straight As I Can: Transcending Disability in Hollywood and Beyond," which won the Independent Publishers – First place Gold Award for best Memoir of 2012. Personal Life: Jewell was previously married to Richard Pimentel. In her autobiography, she discussed her struggle with chronic pain and revealing her true sexual identity. She has publicly stated she is a proud gay woman with cerebral palsy. Awards: In 2011, Jewell received the SAG-AFTRA Disabilities Awareness Award at the Media Access Awards. In 2024, the Media Access Awards established the Norman Lear-Geri Jewell Lifetime Achievement Award. 

Our guest this week is Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ who is executive director at EPIC Schools located in Paramus, NJ, author of dozens of publications and books, an internationally recognized Autism expert and outspoken advocate for the disability community.Peter has three degrees from Rutgers University: a BA in Psychology, an EdM in Special Education, and a PhD in Education Psychology and Special Education. He has dedicated his life to researching Autism and serving the disability community.  He has developed workshops and given hundreds of presentations domestically and internationally.  Some of his publications include: Make it Meaningful: Creating Programs that Matter into Adulthood for Learners with Autism and Related Disorders (2024).Handbook of Quality of Life for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series (2022).Transition to Adulthood for Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism: Can We Improve Outcomes? (2022) Social Skill and Adaptive Behavior Intervention with Learners with Autism (2013). Peter also served as a consultant for the widely respected documentary In A Different Key (2021) co-producers: Caren Zucker, John Donovan & Ray Conley with music by Wynston Marsalis.Given the scope of Peter's work we decided to split his interview into two parts. This is part #2. Show Links:Phone – (210) 576-0600Email – PGerhardt@epicschool.orgLinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-gerhardt-112a4b29/Website - https://www.epicschool.org/Organization for Autism Research (OAR) - https://researchautism.org/Books – - Make it Meaningful: Creating Programs that Matter into Adulthood for Learners with Autism and Related Disorders - Handbook of Quality of Life for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series - Publication- Transition to Adulthood for Adolescents and Young Adults  with Autism: Can We Improve Outcomes?. Movie – https://www.inadifferentkeythemovie.com/Special Fathers Network -SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 800+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: "I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated.  There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through."SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations.Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA/videosPlease support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/  SFN Mastermind Group - https://21stcenturydads.org/sfn-mastermind-group/

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Brandon Parkes who is a Disability Advocate, Digital Creator, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, and a Twitch Streamer. We talked to Brandon about the rare infection that caused damage to his spinal cord and left him paralyzed at the T5/6 level, his love of wheelchair basketball, and the content he's putting out from gaming to comedy to motivation for other people dealing with an SCI. Connect with Brandon at his social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!!   Brandon Parkes: IG: @professorparkes Twitter: @professorparkes Twitch: @professorparkes12 Tik-Tok: @professorparkes_               @professorparkesclips  

“Don't be afraid to ask for help, because we all do better when we all do better.” – Jenna Udenberg Today's featured author is a former music educator, accessibility educator, disability activist, and the founder of the non-profit, Above & Beyond With U, Jenna Udenberg. Jenna and I had a fun on a bun chat about her book, “Within My Spokes: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth & Freedom”, navigating the world as a manual wheelchair user since age eight, her shift from music education to disability advocacy, challenging assumptions, and more!!Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired Jenna to become an authorHow her teaching skills and lived experience inform her work in accessibility and nonprofit leadershipTerms to avoid and the advocacy for respectful terminologyWhy finding joy in creative activities and building supportive communities is a mustJenna's Site: https://www.aboveandbeyondwithu.org/Jenna's Book: https://a.co/d/5O957BAThe opening track is titled, “North Wind and the Sun” by Trevin P. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://compilationsforhumanity.bandcamp.com/track/north-wind-and-the-sunPlease support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…Ep. 844 – Different But Special with Owen Rex Daughtry (@daughtry_owen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-844-different-but-special-with-owen-rex-daughtry-daughtry_owen/Ep. 494 – “Living With Cerebral Palsy & Inspiring Others to Achieve the Extraordinary” with Christopher Powell (@overcomelimits): https://shorturl.at/k5evfEp. 344.5 – “Poohlicious” with Mary Elizabeth Jackson (@Mary_E_Jackson): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-3445-poohlicious-with-mary-elizabeth-jackson-mary_e_jackson/Ep. 385 – “From Wheels to Heals” with Barby Ingle (@BarbyIngle): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-385-from-wheels/Ep. 471 – “How to Turn Suffering Into Something Good” with Darci Steiner (@DarciJSteiner): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-471-how-to-turn-suffering-into-something-good-with-darci-steiner-darcijsteiner/

Our guest this week is Peter Gerhardt of Rich Hill Park, NJ who is executive director at EPIC Schools located in Paramus, NJ, author of dozens of publications and books, an internationally recognized Autism expert and outspoken advocate for the disability community.Peter has three degrees from Rutgers University: a BA in Psychology, an EdM in Special Education, and a PhD in Education Psychology and Special Education. He has dedicated his life to researching Autism and serving the disability community.  He has developed workshops and given hundreds of presentations domestically and internationally.  Some of his publications include: Make it Meaningful: Creating Programs that Matter into Adulthood for Learners with Autism and Related Disorders (2024).Handbook of Quality of Life for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series (2022).Transition to Adulthood for Adolescents and Young Adults with Autism: Can We Improve Outcomes? (2022) Social Skill and Adaptive Behavior Intervention with Learners with Autism (2013). Peter also served as a consultant for the widely respected documentary In A Different Key (2021) co-producers: Caren Zucker, John Donovan & Ray Conley with music by Wynston Marsalis.Given the scope of Peter's work we decided to split his interview into two parts. This is part #1. Show Links:Phone – (210) 576-0600Email – PGerhardt@epicschool.orgLinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-gerhardt-112a4b29/Website - https://www.epicschool.org/Organization for Autism Research (OAR) - https://researchautism.org/Books – - Make it Meaningful: Creating Programs that Matter into Adulthood for Learners with Autism and Related Disorders - Handbook of Quality of Life for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism and Child Psychopathology Series - Publication- Transition to Adulthood for Adolescents and Young Adults  with Autism: Can We Improve Outcomes?. Movie – https://www.inadifferentkeythemovie.com/Special Fathers Network -SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 800+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: "I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated.  There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through."SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations.Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA/videosPlease support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/  SFN Mastermind Group - https://21stcenturydads.org/sfn-mastermind-group/

Empowering Advocacy: A Deep Dive with Isaac Harvey In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Isaac Harvey MBE, an influential disability advocate, entrepreneur, and content creator. Isaac shares his inspiring journey from East London, living with limb pelvic hypoplasia and other conditions, to becoming a leading voice in the disability community. The conversation explores Isaac's accomplishments, including his role as President of Wheels and Wheelchairs, his awards, and his viral impact on LinkedIn. They discuss challenges and triumphs in accessibility, community support, and the power of storytelling in advocacy. Isaac's insights offer a powerful message of resilience, independence, and the importance of breaking down societal barriers for people with disabilities. Minute Markers and Must-Know Points 00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia 00:25 Meet Isaac Harvey: Disability Advocate and Influencer 02:14 Isaac's Early Life and Overcoming Challenges 05:17 Accessibility in London and Personal Experiences 08:42 Wheels and Wheelchairs: Skating from Brighton to Paris 17:55 Advocacy and Recognition: Awards and Impact 24:20 Future Goals and Ongoing Projects 27:31 Advice for the Younger Generation 30:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts A Quote from Isaac “Pushing out of your comfort zone really helps you grow and become a better advocate.” ~ Isaac Harvey MBE What This Episode Unpacked

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Jerod Nieder who is a Disability Advocate, a Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, and a Disability Consultant among many other titles you could put on him. We spoke to Jerod about the diving accident that left him paralyzed in Mexico, immersing himself in SCI research and the subsequent trials he participated in after his injury, and starting his consulting company Positively Paralyzed. We also chatted about his relationship with his beautiful wife Hanna and having their wedding documented on the Love Stories TV Youtube channel, competing in the 2021 and 2022 New York City marathons using his hand cycle, and the PositivelyFit Wheelchair Guided Workouts he does on his YouTube channel. Connect with Jerod on his social media channels!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Jerod Nieder/Positively Paralyzed: IG: @positivelyparalyzed  https://positivelyparalyzed.org/ Twitter: @PstvlyPrlyzd FB: @positivelyparalyzed  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@positivelyparalyzed Jerod & Hanna's Wedding Story:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wv1RWOkPzXQ&list=PLCcjPP2aelyMWaLU0YeA1kfQoqJknVx6Y

Sara is a seasoned Human Resources/Recruiting leader  who helped  thousands of individuals navigate the employment jungle and pursue their career goals. Sara often recruited people from under-represented areas to find jobs in the traditional workforce by providing practical tools, advice and encouragement.    She reluctantly wrote her first inspirational self-help book 25 years ago. Now the recently released third edition ,”Turning Stones into Gems -Learn how to find purpose in your life & career” is reigniting people again after the Pandemic, Great Resignation & now Great Gloom in the workplace. Now reinventing herself as an Author/Speaker, Disability Advocate and Career Navigator since suddenly losing her vision due to a genetic condition 20 years ago.     Sara went  from a ‘Pity' party to a ‘Propel' party. She attributes her success to her faith, passion and perseverance. Her mission remains clear: to encourage, equip, and empower individuals in their personal and professional pursuits regardless of their   circumstances! She also is dispelling the myths about employment of individuals with visual impairments and other disabilities.      https://www.urgems.com/   InstaGram   https://www.instagram.com/sarafreemansmith/   Facebook   https://www.facebook.com/urgemsgroupinc   LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-freeman-smith/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/u-r-gems-llc/   X or Twitter   https://x.com/sarafsmith_ About The Flare Up Show Find Chrissy Cordingley at ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.risethrive.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow the Flare Up Show on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join the Rise and Thrive Wholeness Community on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠   Welcome to The Flare Up Show with Chrissy Cordingley. We tackle tough health topics with humor, share epic comeback stories, and explore ways to boost your mind and body. Whether you're feeling meh or need a laugh, join us for expert tips, inspiring chats, and a dash of fun to help you flare up to your best self. Ready to rise and thrive? Tune in and let's set your journey on fire! #TheFlareUpShow #RiseAndThrivePodcast #WholenessCoaching #WholeBeing #WellBeing #ReAlign #ReAlive #ElevateYourLife VIDEO MUSIC Credit; Happy Place Courtesy of ClipChamp Audio version Music Credit: Y2K by Lunareh

Our guest this week is Rebekah Taussig of Shawnee, KS who is a mother, wife, author, podcast host, outspoken advocate for those with disability and who, herself is a paraplegic.  Rebekah and her husband, Micah have been married for seven years and are the proud parents of Otto, who is typical five year old. Rebekah was diagnosed with spine cancer at age one and due to multiple surgeries lost her ability to walk at age four.  She was the youngest of six children and despite her disability, still slept on the top bunk upstairs in her family home.  She credits much of her success and resilience to her parents and siblings, who didn't treat her any differently.  Prior to Otto's birth, Rebekah was a high school English and Literature teacher.  Rebekah combined her PhD in Creative Non-Fiction & Disability Studies from University of Kansas, with her passion for writing to author Sitting Pretty: The View From My Ordinary, Resilient Disabled Body (2020). and more recently, a children's book entitled: We Are the Scrappy Ones (2025).More recently Rebekah has partnered with Caitlin Metz to host the Scratch That: Parenting & Re-Parenting Off Script Podcast, now with more than 50 episodes. It's an uplifting story about family and a woman's resilience all on this episode of the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast. Show Notes -Phone – (913) 940-1714Email – rebekahgracetaussig@gmail.comLinkedIn –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-g-taussig-458668139/Website - https://www.rebekahtaussig.com/Books - Sitting Pretty: The View From My Ordinary, Resilient Disabled Body - https://tinyurl.com/mv4nc9tkWe Are The Scrappy Ones - https://tinyurl.com/49h7rdb4Special Fathers Network -SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 800+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: "I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated.  There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through."SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations.Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA/videosPlease support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/  SFN Mastermind Group - https://21stcenturydads.org/sfn-mastermind-group/

On today's episode I sit down with the WICKEDly talented Jenna Bainbridge. We discuss everything from her Broadway journey to Suffs then Wicked to her staunch belief that brownies are the greatest food on the planet.If you're looking for handmade wooden home decor then my Etsy shop is perfect for you! For a look at my catalog go to: JohnMadWoodworking.Etsy.com You can find more info about my work as an actor and voiceover artist on my website at: www.johnmaddaloni.com Rate and Subscribe to my show on Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you're listening to this podcast!Support the show

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the pleasure of speaking with Martin Quinn who is a Disability Advocate, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, and a Defier of Odds. We caught up with Martin just after he completed the Boston Marathon working with the Christopher and Dana Reeve's Foundation to raise money for spinal cord injury research. We talked about the illness that left him temporarily paralyzed from the waist down 25 years ago, still dealing with some issues from the SCI while outwardly looking completely healed, and the thrill of being able to raise money for SCI research and the perspective that gives him having dealt with the injury. Connect with Martin at the Instagram link below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Martin Quinn: @martinquinn2207 https://www.givengain.com/project/martin-raising-funds-for-christopher-and-dana-reeve-foundation-89096 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/hIv464E8hGI

In this inspiring episode of The Brand Called You, Sonali Saini—founder of Sol's ARC—shares her journey from special educator to changemaker. Learn how she's reshaping India's approach to disability inclusion in education, livelihoods, and policy through data, tech, and heart-led leadership.00:38- About Sonali SainiSonali is the founder of Sol's ARC, and she's a disability advocate.

A recent survey surprisingly found only 41% of physicians were “very confident” about their ability to provide equal quality care to patients with a disability. Megan Morris, Ph.D., and her allies are trying to figure out why and how to boost that percentage. STAT News' STATUS List recently added Morris to its prestigious collection of influencers because of her role as founder of the Disability Equity Collaborative. In an interview with “Conversations on Health Care” hosts Mark Masselli and Margaret... Read More Read More The post Healthcare Disability Advocate, Fueled by Personal Experience: Megan Morris appeared first on Healthy Communities Online.

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Our guest this week is Jamiel Owens, of Hatfield, PA who is a volunteer firefighter, advocate for those with disability, founder of Ausomeness Inc. and a father of two, including a son who is autistic.Jamiel and his wife, Marta Santa, have been married for 5 years and you are the proud father of two children: Alejandro (3) and Shane (16), who is Autistic.With little more than a GED, Jamiel has become a disability advocate and role model for others raising children with disability.  Through Ausomeness, Inc. Jamiel has created a social enterprise that provides education, empowerment, engagement, and support to families of children with autism.We also learn about Jamiel's faith, his overcoming the issue of father absence in his youth and how that has informed him about the importance of being present. All on this episode of the SFN Dad to Dad Podcast.Show LinksPhone – (445) 247-2071Email – owensjd@chop.eduLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiel-owens-75a985213/Website - https://ausomenessinc.com/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ausomenessinc/Register for the 6th Annual SFN Dads Virthual Conference on May 10, 2025: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/TLkN_ViJTTqnaK-M8pHPNA After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.Special Fathers Network -SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 800+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: "I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated.  There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through."SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations.Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA/videosPlease support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/  

Paralympian, and unapologetic voice for change—Al Viney joins ListenABLE hosts Dylan Alcott and Angus O'Loughlin for a bold conversation about disability, elite sport/rowing, and the systems that still need fixing. "Differentiating between an injury was bad and my disability is not bad". Al breaks down what really happens after a life-changing injury, from navigating inaccessible medical language to challenging the rules of Paralympic classification. She shares the highs and hard truths of competing on the world stage, and why the separation between the Paralympics and Olympics still needs to be discussed. This episode cuts through the fluff—touching on adaptive tech, sport governance, the realities of drunk driving, and what meaningful inclusion actually looks like in healthcare and high performance sport. Whether you're in the disability space or just catching up, this one’s essential listening. Want to support Al? Check our the links below! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/al.viney/ Mazenod Panthers All Ability Football Club Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/56OY2SgJ4AcGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we had the honor of speaking with Christa Jo Cairus ( @roll_andsparkle ) who is a Disability Advocate, Author, Mother, Wife, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor among so many other titles. We talk about how Christa suffered a spinal cord injury, the abuse she dealt with four and after the injury at the hands of her former fiancé, and how she was able to finally escape that abuse. We also discussed the two books she's written; Beautiful Survivor: Escaping the Statistics and Turning Adversity into Glitter and the inspiration behind writing them and getting her story out there, and discussed her weight loss journey. Connect with Christa at her social media links below and check out the two books she's written at the Amazon links. Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!! We're just trying to find a cure for paralysis!! Christa Jo Cairus: IG: @roll_andsparkle FB: https://www.facebook.com/christa.j.sexton https://www.instagram.com/p/DEh6n4Dowa0/   Books: Beautiful Survivor: Escaping the Statistics https://a.co/d/dq8BIx1   Turning Adversity into Glitter https://a.co/d/iWFBHvt  

In this week's episode I sat down with Mark Povinelli. Mark is an activist as well as an actor on stage and screen. He is currently portraying Benjamin Lay, shepherd, sailor, revolutionary, the British Empire's first revolutionary abolitionist, and someone whose story for too long has not been told, in the Off-Broadway production of The Return of Benjamin Lay. We discuss who Benjamin Lay was, how this show came to be, the importance of telling this story at this time, much more. Join The Patreon: Click Here Get your tickets to see The Return Of Benjamin Lay (Use the discount code"LPA"): Here Follow The Return Of Benjamin Lay Play: Instagram: @benlayplay Follow Mark: Instagram: @markpovinelli IMDb: Mark Povinelli Follow Me: Instagram: @jill_ilana , @alwayslookingup.podcast TikTok: @jillian_ilana Website: https://www.jillianilana.com Email: alwayslookingup227@gmail.com Read With Me: Goodreads The StoryGraph Relief For Disabled People Impacted By The Los Angeles Fires: Richard Devylder Disaster Relief Fund: https://disabilitydisasteraccess.org/rd-relief-fund/ United Spinal Disaster Relief Grant: https://unitedspinal.org/disaster-relief-grant/ Inevitable Foundation Emergency Relief Fund: https://www.inevitable.foundation/erf This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin

Rabia Khedr is a passionate advocate for equity, justice, and inclusion, particularly for people with disabilities and diverse communities. She's served on the Accessibility Standards Canada board, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, and the Minister's Disability Advisory Group. As the National Director of Disability Without Poverty and CEO of DEEN Support Services, she's also a co-founder of Race and Disability Canada. Rabia, a motivational speaker, has earned awards like the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for her humanitarian work.

In this week's episode I sat down with Rachel Wherley, Erin Elswood, and Shelby Holloway, the co-directors of the Mascots Matter campaign. Mascots Matter is an independent grassroots advocacy initiative calling for the retirement of offensive disability mascots. We discuss the origins of the “m” slur and its continued, harmful use through to present day, the founding of Mascots Matter and its advocacy efforts thus far, why discriminatory disability mascots are not just a local issue and much more. For reference, this conversation was recorded on March 18, 2025. Also, the “m”-slur will be used in context when explaining it as a slur as well as referring to these mascots. It is important to note that neither myself nor my guests condone the use of this word nor is it a part of our vocabularies. Follow And Support Mascots Matter: Website: https://mascotsmatter.net Donate Here Instagram: @mascotsmatter Facebook: Mascots Matter Follow Rachel: Instagram: @thatlittlemom TikTok: @thatlittlemom Follow Erin: Instagram: @erinkaseyhughes Follow Shelby: Instagram: @shelbyhollowayy TikTok: @shelby_holloway Follow Me: Instagram: @jill_ilana , @alwayslookingup.podcast TikTok: @jillian_ilana Website: https://www.jillianilana.com Email: alwayslookingup227@gmail.com Read With Me: Goodreads The StoryGraph This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin

In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Jayne Mattingly, an inspiring figure in the realms of chronic illness and disability advocacy. We dive into the concept of body grief and explore its seven stages, offering insights and strategies that can resonate deeply with those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Jane shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting how acknowledging body grief can lead to healthier coping mechanisms and a more resilient approach to managing chronic illnesses. Our discussion provides valuable perspectives aimed at improving your quality of life with MS while navigating the challenges it may bring. Tune in for a heartfelt and insightful conversation filled with expertise and encouragement for your MS journey! About our guest: Jayne Mattingly, 33, is an Eating Disorder therapist turned, Chronic Illness and Disability Advocate, Author and Body Acceptance social Media Influencer and Artist. Jayne is a leader who speaks up for those that are disabled, chronically ill, struggling with eating disorders, and/or mental illness. Her vulnerable, open, and honest content breaks barriers for those who are left out and unseen in an ableist-focused world. She holds a Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, specializing in eating disorder recovery and body image struggles. Jayne candidly shares her learnings, hardships, and growth, all while breaking stigmas and normalizing body grief. Her content, mission, upcoming book; This is Body Grief (published by Penguin Random House) and newsletter, Body Grief (on Substack), non-profit, provide a safe space and support for an unseen and unheard community. Jayne is also newly disabled by her progressive and degenerative illnesses; Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, intracranial hypertension, and now a severe allergy to the metal that has been implanted in her body and as a result has had more than 19 brain procedures and total hysterectomy. She relies on her rollator, wheel chair and her service dog Wheatie. Jayne is a Chicago, Illinois, native and now lives in Charleston, South Carolina, with her husband and pets. Connect with Jayne: Website: https://www.jaynemattingly.com/ Resources mentioned in the episode: Jayne's book, This Is Body Grief - https://www.jaynemattingly.com/the-book Jayne's substack: https://jaynemattingly.substack.com/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In this week's episode I sat down with Melanie Waldman. Melanie is a multi-award-winning filmmaker with the Easterseals Disability Film Challenge, a member of SAG-AFTRA, an on-air talent member at QVC, host of the Disability Reality Podcast (which, yours truly, will be making an appearance on very soon talking all things on Bravo), and she STILL somehow finds time to teach adaptive yoga to the disability community & beyond! We discuss disability as a collective and the healing power of connection within, turning adversity into joy, the opportunities that arise from authenticity and much, much more. Relief For Disabled People Impacted By The Los Angeles Fires: Richard Devylder Disaster Relief Fund: https://disabilitydisasteraccess.org/rd-relief-fund/ United Spinal Disaster Relief Grant: https://unitedspinal.org/disaster-relief-grant/ Inevitable Foundation Emergency Relief Fund: https://www.inevitable.foundation/erf Follow Melanie: Instagram: @whereswaldman TikTok: @whereswaldman Listen to Disability Reality Podcast: Spotify Apple Podcasts Follow Me: Instagram: @jill_ilana , @alwayslookingup.podcast TikTok: @jillian_ilana Website: https://www.jillianilana.com Email: alwayslookingup227@gmail.com Read With Me: Goodreads The StoryGraph This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of the Starter Girlz podcast, host Jennifer Loehding interviews Alyssa Cleland, an amputee advocate and influential social media creator. Alyssa shares her powerful journey of disability advocacy, resilience, and authentic content creation. The conversation explores disability representation, breaking stigmas, social media authenticity, and inclusive content strategies. Listeners will learn about navigating challenges as a person with a disability, building an engaged online community, and the importance of disability education and awareness. Alyssa's story demonstrates how embracing your unique journey can create meaningful impact and opportunities for positive change in the digital landscape.TakeawaysAuthenticity on social media creates genuine connections—Alyssa's real-life experiences as an amputee resonate deeply with her audience.Breaking disability stigmas through education and visibility is central to Alyssa's mission as an advocate.Living with a disability presents challenges but also unique opportunities for impact and personal growth.Creating positive online communities requires balancing vulnerability with boundaries.Alyssa's journey from para-dressage athlete to disability advocate demonstrates how embracing your unique story can lead to meaningful influence.

For context, this episode was recorded on February 19, 2025. In this week's episode I sat down with Eliza Orlins. Eliza Orlins is a career public defender who has represented close to 4000 people charged with crimes in Manhattan over the last 13+ years. She's an outspoken advocate and can be found raging against injustice on her social media platforms. We discuss the misunderstandings and misrepresentations of the criminal legal system, the ways in which the system and how it is designed impacts those in marginalized communities including persons with disabilities, how she is pushing for change within the system as an advocate and as an activist, and much, much more. Relief For Disabled People Impacted By The Los Angeles Fires: Richard Devylder Disaster Relief Fund: https://disabilitydisasteraccess.org/rd-relief-fund/ United Spinal Disaster Relief Grant: https://unitedspinal.org/disaster-relief-grant/ Inevitable Foundation Emergency Relief Fund: https://www.inevitable.foundation/erf Follow Eliza: Instagram: @eorlins TikTok: @eorlins Substack: Objection: Everything Follow Me: Instagram: @jill_ilana , @alwayslookingup.podcast TikTok: @jillian_ilana Website: https://www.jillianilana.com Email: alwayslookingup227@gmail.com Read With Me: Goodreads The StoryGraph This episode was edited and produced by Ben Curwin

The Americans with Disabilities Act is unquestionably in the premiere class of landmark legislation in American History. On this episode, Greg sits down with the original author and co-sponsor of the ADA -- avid disability rights advocate, the Honourable Tony Coelho, former Representative from California. Tony first introduced the ADA alongside Senator Lowell Weicker in the 100th Congress in 1988 and battled the red tape, opposition and criticism to finally get the bill passed and signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1990.  Greg is joined by his Talk About It partner Ken Lowenberg to talk with Tony about his personal history with epilepsy, how the bill came into existence, the importance of enforcing the ADA by presidential administrations, and the dangers of stigma. This episode is so important to listen to, because it's easy to overlook how widespread the impact of the ADA is, touching every American in ways that might be subtle or even hidden. Don't miss it! The Talk About It podcast is excited to be sponsored in part by Neurelis. The Talk About It podcast is excited to sponsored in part by Seizures Are Signs — dedicated to educating families on the importance of early and specific diagnosis by providing an assessment to help get the conversation started, educational information, stories from families who have found a diagnosis, links to advocacy groups, and more. For more information, go to SeizuresAreSigns.com. Seizures are Signs is made available by Jazz Pharmaceuticals.

This week on the Live to Walk Again Podcast we were lucky enough to visit with Emmie Brookins who is an Influencer, Spinal Cord Injury Survivor, and Disability Advocate. After a brief senior moment from Ricardo (interview starts at about the 6 minute mark) we chat with Emmie about a wide range of topics from the car accident that left her paralyzed at 16 to her adorable service dog Levi. We also talked about the decision to document her story and answer questions related to SCI through her social media and YouTube channels, having a baclofen pump installed in November, and the incredible support she received from her family after her injury. Connect with Emmie at her social media links below!! Please listen, like, rate, review, and share the podcast!!   Emmie Brookins: IG: @_itsemmielynn https://www.youtube.com/@Em-Erin

*Trigger warning: mention of suicide Dan reunites with Jonathan Mooney, an award-winning writer, activist, and friend. Their conversation is an intensely personal and rich discussion about purpose, service, disability, difference, and ultimately, humanity. Jonathan is a Neurodiversity and Disability Advocate with dyslexia and ADHD who did not learn to read until he was twelve years old. He shares intimate stories about his parents, his challenges, and his deep purpose to change the world's view of differences. Dan and Jonathan challenge us all to collectively work towards equity by focusing on asking “What is right with you?” and not “What is wrong with you?” because every individual has value intrinsically. Every. Single. Human. An activist and writer, Jonathan aims to shift cultural perceptions of neurodivergence and disability away from the traditional pathology model and towards a social justice-centric model that embraces different experiences across the human continuum. Jonathan has spent his professional career as a social entrepreneur helping improve the lives of marginalized groups. At Brown University, he co-founded Project Eye-To-Eye, a non-profit advocacy organization for students with learning differences and currently, he is co-founder of The Divergent Fund, a venture philanthropy investing in high-impact social ventures that support and empower neurodivergent individuals and their families. For more information jonathanmooney.com and follow @thejonathanmooney on Instagram. Please listen, follow, rate, and review Make It a Great One on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow @drdanpeters on social media. Visit www.drdanpeters.com and send your questions or guest pitches to podcast@drdanpeters.com. We have this moment, this day, and this life—let's make it a great one. – Dr. Dan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Workshops that equip educators to support children with disabilities and engage parents are essential in bridging knowledge gaps for better care. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines speaks with Jenny Nechvatal, an Early Childhood Teacher, Author, and devoted parent, who shares her journey raising three children, including twin boys diagnosed with level three autism. Their conversation explores the importance of accepting children's abilities and highlights the diverse support systems available in both Australia and the U.S. Embracing and celebrating a child's unique strengths is a crucial part of parenting children with disabilities. A strong support network ensures they receive the care, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive. Join us to discover how all of these elements work together to ensure empowered children and supported parents.   In this episode, you will hear: How educators can enhance communication with parents of children with disabilities by fostering open, empathetic, and consistent dialogue. Ways play-based learning is essential in early childhood education for children with disabilities, promoting cognitive, social, and motor skill development. Why acceptance at different stages of raising children with disabilities is crucial for fostering confidence, resilience, and a supportive environment. How workshops provide educators and managers with valuable skills and insights to better support children with disabilities. Why strong support systems are essential for individuals with disabilities and their families, ensuring access to resources, advocacy, and community connections. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://innovativedisabilitysolutions.squarespace.com/ Read: Embracing Disability in Early Childhood: Supporting Children Living with a Disability and their Families in Early Childhood Settings LinkedIn: @jenny-nechvatal Instagram & Facebook: @innovativedisabilitysolutions Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   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.