Born Fabulous

Send a text

Navigating life with young adults who have intellectual disabilities can be a complex dance of fostering independence and cherishing interdependence. This heartfelt narrative unfolds as we reconnect with June and Jim Zoll alongside Melody and Bob Ruppel, who unveil the empowering decisions that shaped their children's growth into well-rounded individuals. Their stories breathe life into the everyday moments that, while often overlooked, form the bedrock of capability and joy. By integrating their children into family life and holding them to equal academic standards, our guests demonstrate that the pursuit of normalcy isn't merely about blending in—it's about standing out and thriving.

As the conversation sweeps us into the vibrant tapestry of school years and life beyond, the parents reflect on the milestones they celebrated and the support they yearned for. Hear how the children's participation in regular life events like sports, proms, and graduations has woven a richer narrative of inclusion and accomplishment. The journey doesn't pause after high school; the exuberance continues through community college adventures in dance and sign language, culminating in the blossoming of a beautiful relationship. This episode not only salutes these remarkable young adults but also previews the next chapter: James and Kristen's personal and professional strides, set to the resonant lyrics of Melissa Riggio performed by Rachel Fuller. Join us as we honor these narratives that reshape the landscape of what's possible, one heartfelt story at a time.

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Have you ever witnessed a moment that beautifully defies the odds? That's precisely what we unravel in our latest conversation with June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel, as we celebrate the extraordinary lives led by their children, James Zoll and Kristen Ruppel. This pair of young adults, bound by love and a shared experience of Down syndrome, take us on a journey marked by achievements in sports, arts, and the blossoming of a heartfelt romance. Their story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the power of inclusion and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.

Together, we reflect on James's vibrant involvement in the Special Olympics and the pivotal role sports played in enhancing his social skills and self-esteem. His segue into high school extracurriculars, such as chorus and varsity basketball, exemplifies the importance of inclusive opportunities. Kristen's artistic pursuits, beginning in a K-8 arts magnet school and evolving through her high school experience, illuminate her journey towards independence and highlight the significant strides she has made. The narrative of how a summer of friendship turned into a lifetime of love, marked by James's touching birthday proposal, underscores not just the individual stories of James and Kristen, but the universal longing for connection. Join us as we discuss the vital balance between integration and fostering relationships within the disability community, and witness firsthand the creation of initiatives that pave the way for a more inclusive world.

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Have you ever witnessed the transformative power of a community that opens its arms to every member, no matter the challenges they face? That's the heartwarming reality June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel have lived as they raised their children, James and Kristen, who both have Down syndrome. In our latest episode, we're honored to invite these exceptional parents to share their compelling narratives. They reveal the formidable struggles and uplifting victories of advocating for inclusive education, where every child is given the chance to thrive. Their stories highlight the meaningful changes that occur when children are embraced for who they are, as James's evolution from 'Jimmy' to 'James' poignantly exemplifies.

Our conversation isn't just a journey through the halls of academia; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of families striving for independence and interdependence for their loved ones. The Zolls and Ruppels offer insights into the importance of forging strong partnerships with teachers, fostering understanding among peers, and the crucial role that parental advocacy plays in shaping a fulfilling educational experience. Listen as we celebrate Kristen's blossoming in a performing arts magnet school, and James's trailblazing path to full inclusion from elementary school onwards. This episode isn't just a narrative—it's a blueprint for hope, determination, and the belief that an inclusive world is not only possible but imperative.

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

How do you navigate the joys and challenges of raising young adults with intellectual disabilities? Join us for this heartwarming episode of Born Fabulous, where we uncover the inspiring stories of two extraordinary couples, Jim and June Soule and Melody and Bob Ruppel. You'll hear Melody's journey managing government contracts at WestEd, where her professional mission of full inclusion for special needs children was deeply influenced by her personal experiences. June shares the emotional rollercoaster of welcoming their son James after a long struggle to have a child, emphasizing the vital role family support plays in fostering independence for young adults with Down syndrome.

In a candid conversation, Melody and Bob Ruppel open up about their initial reactions to their daughter Kristen's diagnosis of Down syndrome and the early interventions that shaped her development. Bob's immediate sense of joy contrasts with Melody's initial challenges, offering an authentic glimpse into their parenting journey. Don't miss our preview of upcoming episodes that focus on James and Kristen's educational paths, highlighting advocacy for full inclusion and the complexities of IEP meetings. Tune in for heartfelt anecdotes and valuable insights on the importance of community, inclusion, and unwavering family support.

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send us a Text Message.

Imagine navigating the uncharted waters of parenting, now add the unique joys and challenges of raising children with Down syndrome to the equation. That's the inspiring journey we explore with Jim and June Zoll, as well as Melody and Bob Rupple, who have not only embraced this path but also witnessed the beautiful union of their children in marriage. Our conversation unveils the layers of love, determination, and the relentless pursuit of inclusion that have framed their lives, offering a testament to what can be achieved when we see beyond the diagnosis to the heart and potential of our kids.

Strap in for a heartfelt exploration of the early years, diving into the world of specialized preschool programs, the fight for genuinely inclusive education, and the reinforcement that a child's potential can't be measured by a mere test. Our guests recount moments defying expectations—like the sweet victory of a two-year-old's first steps and the development of a sharp memory—which serve as powerful reminders for educators and parents alike that the sky should be the only limit. These stories are not just narratives of personal triumph but beacons for the future, as our guests share how their family's commitment to advocacy and support for learners of all abilities continues to resonate today, shaping a better tomorrow for every child.

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode.  Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the last of three episodes. Micah and Katherine talk about his strong Circle of Support, goals for the future, technology that helps Micah, social media, advice, sweet and funny stories, and more. 

Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives".  He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker,  and respected disability rights advocate.  Micah has an intellectual disability.  Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them.  Katherine does not have a disability. 

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode.  Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the second of three episodes. Micah and Katherine share her role as support staff, the concept of paid neighbors, what makes great support staff, what is an ideal roommate, how Micah's parents raised him to be strong and independent, and more. 

Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives".  He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker,  and respected disability rights advocate.  Micah has an intellectual disability.  Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them.  Katherine does not have a disability. 

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode.  Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the first of three episodes. Micah updates listeners on his life since his episodes in season 2 of Born Fabulous Podcast.  Micah and Katherine talk about getting through the pandemic, Micah having Covid, share an update on Tori from season 2, Micah's job, Micah's new house, roommates and more. 

Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives".  He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker,  and respected disability rights advocate.  Micah has an intellectual disability.  Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them.  Katherine does not have a disability. 

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman continue their discussion about the sibling perspective, sharing a very poignant quote by their daughter Emma. They also talk about fighting and loving hard, share many resources, give some advice, and sprinkle in more sweet stories. Their wisdom, advice, and experiences have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies. 

Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet. 
Richard and Janice and the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability. 

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast

Send a text

Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman discuss Micah's ability to reach out to others, generational sense of security, giving a teacher hope, interdependence, how this journey has made lifelong profound personal changes, a sibling's perspective, and much more.  Every one of Janice and Rich's episodes are impactful, but this one has even more profound moments. Their wisdom, advice, and stories have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies. 

Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet. 

Richard and Janice are the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability. 

www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
Facebook Page: Born Fabulous Podcast
Instagram: bornfabulouspodcast
Twitter: @PodcastBorn
Threads: bornfabulouspodcast
#BornFabulousPodcast