In this episode, I’m joined by Scott Whitney, a passionate social entrepreneur and founder of All 4 Inclusion , an award-winning social enterprise tackling loneliness in the disability community. Scott acquired his disability in 2020, and after an 18-month journey of adjustment, he turned his experience into a mission to support others. We dive into his journey of adapting to disability, the impact on mental health, overcoming disability guilt, and the power of community in fostering inclusion.…

Navigating the world while living with a learning disability and a hearing impairment is no easy feat, but Patrise's journey is nothing short of inspiring. From her early struggles with memory and requiring support for everyday tasks to overcoming barriers in education and employment, Patrise shares her story of resilience and determination. Her candid conversation reveals the challenges she has faced and her drive to step outside her comfort zones, ultimately showcasing her growth in confidence and self-empowerment. As Patrise recounts her experiences, she highlights the often-overlooked complexities faced by individuals with disabilities in the job market and social settings. Despite these challenges, she celebrates milestones such as gaining employment and learning to drive. Her story underscores the importance of understanding, inclusivity, and the power of personal advocacy. Join us for this heartfelt episode that celebrates the strength found in unique experiences and the journey towards self-acceptance.…

Join me on an emotional and insightful journey as we explore the transition from creating humorous TikTok videos to becoming an advocate for mental health. In this episode, Rachel shares their personal story of coping with the loss of their mum seven years ago and the recent diagnosis of OCD. Discover how social media became a platform for serious discussions about grief, self-care, and mental health support. From the struggles of finding the right therapist to understanding the impact of social media on well-being, we dive deep into what it means to be kind to oneself. Rachel shares her inspiring story of resilience, this episode offers valuable insights and a sense of solidarity for anyone facing mental health challenges or looking to support others. Find out more about Rachel here: Rachel Kitcat | Instagram, TikTok | Linktree…

In this powerful and emotive episode of our podcast, we sit down with an inspiring advocate for disability rights who began her journey at Leeds Uni in 2016. With the evolution of her blog into a force for societal transformation, she challenges us to rethink our perceptions of disability. Join us as we delve into topics such as Down Syndrome Day, the personal impact of living with a disability, and the complex dynamics of social media interaction. My guest candidly shares the emotional toll that comes with her lived experience, emphasizing the need for empathy and allyship in the fight against ableism. We discuss the critical role of support systems and celebrate the contributions of disabled people in all aspects of society. Listen to personal stories, laugh with us, and be part of the conversation as we explore how to make the world more inclusive for everyone. Don't forget to connect with us on social media for more engaging and meaningful content. Chapters: 00:06 - Advocating for Disability Rights and Visibility 13:12 - Navigating Challenges of Disability Awareness 17:58 - Challenging Ableism and Empathy 25:27 - Lackluster Conclusion and Social Media Promotion Key Quotes: "I'm a very emotional person and when I'm out and about, I'm very observant and I can see how people see me and I can see that they're not seeing me the way that I am." - Advocating for Disability Rights and Visibility "I break bones regularly. That's what I do. So when people ask me like what's the beginning, like how it all started, first of all, I don't know, because I was a baby and no one remembers that." - Navigating Challenges of Disability Awareness "Don't be scared to get it wrong... Try, have the conversation, ask. Ask about access requirements, just like you would about dietary requirements. Make it a normal conversation and it will become a normal conversation." - Challenging Ableism and Empathy Connect with Gem: - Follow our guest on social media: Gem Turner (@gem_turner) - Visit her website: www.gemturner.com Join our podcast community for more discussions that inspire change and foster understanding. Thank you for listening and remember to subscribe for more episodes that shine a light on important social issues.…

In this episode, Pete's Ascent Beyond Boundaries in Para climbing, where we delve into the extraordinary journey of Pete, an athlete with cerebral palsy who defies all odds in the competitive world of climbing. Pete's story is not just about scaling physical walls but also about overcoming societal attitudes and financial challenges that athletes with disabilities often face. From his early days finding a sense of belonging in the Sheffield University climbing club to his current endeavours on the GB team, Pete exemplifies determination and resilience. 💪 In this episode, we explore: - The transformation in perspectives towards disabilities and the power of community support. - The significant funding obstacles para-athletes face and how we can contribute to their success. - Pete's personal experiences with ableism, prejudice, and the ongoing battle for better representation in para-sports. We invite you to be part of this conversation and call to action. Support Pete and para-athletes like him by engaging with their stories and helping to provide the financial backing they crucially need. Your engagement can make a real difference in fostering the growth of this inclusive sporting community. Don't miss out on this eye-opening discussion. Tune in, be inspired, and help champion the change for athletes with disabilities. Let's climb these mountains together! Chapters: (0:00:06) - Challenges and Perspectives on Disability (14 Minutes) (0:14:32) - Funding Challenges in Climbing Community (1 Minute) Remember to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more content that moves and motivates. Drop a comment below to show your support for Pete and para-athletes worldwide. Together, we can push beyond limits and celebrate the victories of all athletes. #ParaAthlete #InclusiveSport #motivationalvideos…

"Embracing Differences and Finding Community With Neurofibromatosis" is a podcast episode that brings to the forefront the inspiring stories of individuals living with neurofibromatosis (NF). Join me as, I speak with Kristen, a personal trainer / senior manager at an advertising agency, from New York City, whose life has been shaped by the condition since infancy. From the physical manifestations of NF to the social and emotional hurdles, Kristen has faced. Kristen shares the reality of chronic pain, the nuances of post-pandemic relationships, and the search for acceptance in a world that often overlooks disability. This episode is not just a sharing of personal narratives but a collective call to redefine the understanding of invisible disabilities.…

In this episode, I speak to Kiera about being diagnosed with a brain tumour. Immerse yourself in our conversation which looks at the challenges in getting support and the impact of diagnosis on friends, family, and how to live well and embrace disability. highlights of each Podcast episode: The onset of headaches & the path to diagnosis Coming to Terms with having a brain tumor diagnosis Finding what works for Kiera and how she adapted to health challenges #Podcast #BrainTumorAwareness #TriumphOverAdversity #JourneyToRecovery #Hope #Courage #NavigatingChallenges #StudentLife #HealthJourney…

Join me as for this episode of the Rights Upfront podcast as I speak to Kelly Gordon, a wheelchair user, mother, and a trailblazer in advocating for disability inclusivity in creative industries. Kelly shares her transformative journey from the competitive world of football to becoming a voice for change in advertising and creative production. Episode Highlights 🎙️ - Kelly's path to becoming a Creative Director at Hot Octopus and CEO of her creative production agency, With Not For. - The challenges and triumphs of navigating life with spinal muscular atrophy. - The intersection of identity, disability, and sexuality, and how open communication fosters authentic relationships. - Celebrating the strength of the disability community and the importance of platforms that amplify diverse voices. Chapters 🔊 (0:00:06) Advocating Inclusion in Creative Production (0:11:48) Journey of Self-Discovery With Disability (0:20:27) Embracing Identity and Overcoming Challenges (0:33:40) Empowering Disabled Voices in Community What to Expect 🌟 Prepare to be moved by Kelly's candid revelations and the life-affirming impact of community support. This episode is not only an eye-opener to the struggles faced by individuals with disabilities but also a celebration of the collective power when voices unite for change. Connect with Kelly: Follow Kelly Gordon's work and join her mission to reshape perceptions of disability and champion authentic representation in the creative industry. https://www.instagram.com/mskelgee/ https://www.instagram.com/wnfcreative/ #DisabilityInclusivity #CreativeIndustries #EmpoweringVoices #KellyGordon #WithNotFor #RepresentationMatters #AuthenticStories #Podcast --- Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes that challenge the status quo and shine a light on the unsung heroes making a real difference in our world. Hit the bell icon to get notified of our latest uploads!…

In this episode, I sit down with Joe, the inspiring force behind Dystrophy Dad and Sons of Dystrophy, to explore his transformative journey through the world of muscular dystrophy. Joe candidly shares how his personal experiences with the condition evolved into a global mission to connect and empower others affected by different forms of dystrophy. Listen as we delve into the creation of worldwide "chapters" that foster a strong community spirit, mirroring the camaraderie of biker gangs but united by the challenges of living with dystrophy. We also engage in an honest dialogue about the societal misconceptions of disability, emphasizing the need for a person-first approach and inclusivity. Joe's powerful stories illuminate the path toward self-acceptance and leveraging creative expression to reshape narratives around disability. Moreover, we touch on the intimate aspects of his life, revealing how he overcame fears of romantic isolation to find a partner who sees beyond his condition and the profound influence of family and community support. Throughout the episode, we provide insights on how to be an effective ally to the disabled community, with Joe's heartfelt advice to cultivate curiosity, invest in personal learning, and embrace the diverse human experience with an open heart. Whether you're affected by muscular dystrophy, know someone who is, or simply wish to expand your understanding, this episode is a testament to the resilience and unity that can emerge from shared adversity. Join us for an episode that is not just about living with disability, but thriving with it, as we celebrate the strength and solidarity found in the global dystrophy Movement. #DystrophyDad #SonsOfDystrophy #DisabilityAwareness #CommunityStrength #LoveAndAcceptance…

In this episode I meet Madelyn, a 21-year-old advocate from Minnesota, bravely living with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). Madelyn shares her intimate battle with these invisible chronic illnesses, revealing the day-to-day adversities she overcomes and the triumphs that define her resilient spirit. Listen to Madelyn discuss the stigmas surrounding mental health, the overlooked hardships within the education system, and the financial burdens of managing chronic illness in America. With profound courage, she talks about embracing mobility aids as tools of independence, not defeat, and advocates for policy reform to better support those living with chronic conditions. This episode not only shines a light on Madelyn's individual story but also celebrates the victories and sense of community found within the broader chronic illness and disability sphere. Discover how role models and public figures in the disability rights movement have fueled Madelyn's strength and her dedication to fostering inclusivity and belonging. Madelyn's advice to allies of the disabled community is invaluable, emphasizing empathy, action, and the importance of inclusive representation. Her narrative is a testament to the transformative power of hope and an invitation to listeners to join the conversation and support the cause. Tune in to be moved, educated, and inspired to act. #ChronicIllness #DisabilityAdvocacy #InvisibleDisabilities #Resilience #Community #PolicyReform #Empowerment…

Join us for this enlightening episode with Danielle from Boston, who shares her vibrant journey as a disability advocate. Despite living with an unidentified muscle disease, Danielle's narrative is one of humor, resilience, and empowerment. We delve into the evolution of disability rights, the influence of films like "Crip Camp," and the digital era's role in shaping advocacy. Special guest Daniel brings a cross-cultural perspective, comparing the nuances of disability understanding between the UK and America. Tune in for a celebration of inclusivity and the strength of the human spirit.…

In this epiosode, I am joined by Amit Ghose, who opens up about his life with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a condition that's shaped his identity and advocacy journey. Amit shares the highs and lows, from the stinging stigma he faced growing up to the unconditional support from his family and wife, which has been a cornerstone of his resilience. His viral leap into social media advocacy paints a vivid picture of how one voice can ignite a global conversation on disability acceptance. Listen in as Amit discusses his recent leap of faith into full-time content creation and speaking engagements, all fueled by his passion for educating and inspiring others to embrace diversity and overcome adversity. In our heartfelt conversation, we explore the transformative power of vulnerability and authenticity in promoting diversity and inclusion. Amit's story is a testament to the importance of humanizing every aspect of life, including the medical experiences that often define disabled people. By sharing his journey, Amit demonstrates the impact of visibility and open dialogue in breaking down barriers and fostering a more inclusive society. Discover the profound message that lies in treating individuals holistically, recognizing that our shared human experiences are far greater than our differences. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that celebrates the human spirit in the face of challenges and the beauty of a world that values every person's unique story. (00:03 - 00:38) Amit talks about his diagnosis and impact on his life. (06:30 - 08:25) Impact of TikTok and Social Media (15:13 - 16:06) Creating Value Through Sharing Stories (20:59 - 22:23) Treat Everyone as Human Beings…