In this episode, I am joined by Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger, the hosts of the Wheel Talk podcast. Together, they dive into the vital importance of building community and creating accessible spaces for disabled voices.

Both Avery and Kelly, who live with an ultra-rare neuromuscular condition (congenital muscular dystrophy), share their personal experiences as advocates within the disability community. As podcast hosts themselves, and disability advocates, Kelly and Avery connect with groups from all over, online and  IRL to talk about the importance of creating space and advocating for disability and rare diseases. 

The episode serves as an empowering call to action, reminding listeners that advocating for universal design benefits everyone and that authentic storytelling is essential for normalizing disability in everyday life.

• The discussion emphasizes that accessibility is the bare minimum, while equity, ensuring that spaces and systems are designed for everyone from the start, is the goal.
• The guests explore the nuances of identity, including person-first versus identity-first language, and the importance of respectful, accurate terminology.
• They highlight the positive, albeit slow, shifts toward authentic disability representation in media, such as in Broadway productions and film, stressing that true inclusion involves having disabled individuals in writer's rooms and director's chairs, not just in front of the camera.
• They discuss how technology and social media have been transformative tools for connecting people with rare conditions who are geographically scattered, allowing them to share resources and find mutual understanding.

Kelly is a disability and rare disease advocate based in Ohio. Living with Congenital Muscular Dystrophy, she is passionate about using her platform to enact real change for the disability community and putting a face to the rare disease experience. Kelly is dedicated to normalizing disability and fostering equity, ensuring that the community's voice is heard in all spaces.

• Find Kelly: @thekellyberger

Avery is a New York-based professional dancer and disability advocate. Also living with Congenital Muscular Dystrophy, she is deeply focused on the importance of disability representation and authentic inclusion—both in front of the camera and behind the scenes in writer's rooms and director's chairs. Her unique perspective as a performer allows her to bridge the gap between the disability community and the entertainment industry.

• Find Avery: @avery.nicole916 

Kelly and Avery co-host the Wheel Talk podcast, a space created to connect the community, share resources, and discuss the "good, the bad, and the wild" realities of life with a disability. They cover essential topics often ignored by mainstream media, from universal design to the nuances of identity and language.

• Listen to Wheel Talk: Search for "Wheel Talk Podcast" on your favourite streaming platform or follow them on social media at @thewheeltalkpodcast.
  

Website: https://www.ladieslivingrare.com/

In This Episode of Cozy Chats 

In this episode of Cozy Chats, Sarah Householder (The Witty Ladybug) and I tear down the 'hustle culture' myth and get into why you need to channel the 'audacity of a mediocre white man' to override imposter syndrome. 

We talk about the overall struggles of building a business with a chronic illness and neurodivergence and the common necessity of building a business that can pivot when your capacity fluctuates, and why building sustainable, imperfect systems is better than burning yourself out. 

We want to acknowledge and normalize the idea that we aren't doing it wrong; the system is just broken. If you're a business owner struggling to find a sustainable path, stop forcing yourself into a box and start building on your own terms!

• When imposter syndrome hits, adopt the "audacity of a mediocre white man." Stop asking for permission or waiting until you feel fully qualified. If people with less experience and skill can do it, you can too.
• If traditional advice like "hustle culture," "post every day," or rigid business plans doesn't work for your brain or body, it’s not because you’re failing. Stop trying to force a disabled/neurodivergent reality into an able-bodied box.
• You cannot rely on constant, high-energy output. Focus on building systems and automations that keep your business running during flares or when you’re unable to show up, rather than relying on manual labor.
• Your brand should be specific enough to repel people who don’t "get" you. Alienating the wrong audience isn't a failure, it’s an energy-saving strategy that clears the way for the right customers.
• Waiting for perfection is just a way to delay starting. Ship the work, see what happens, and iterate later. Done is better than perfect, especially when your capacity is unpredictable.
• Forget the formal business plans unless you are seeking funding. Create simple, internal roadmaps to keep yourself focused and prevent you from chasing every "shiny new thing" or distraction.
• Entrepreneurship is isolating, but it doesn't have to be. Connecting with other chronically ill and neurodivergent business owners normalizes the reality of fluctuating capacity and helps you realize you aren't the only one struggling.

Sarah Householder is the founder of The Witty Ladybug, a shop built on the premise that you can—and should—navigate chronic illness and late-stage capitalism with a sense of humor. Three years after her own health took a sharp turn, Sarah ditched the traditional "hustle culture" myth to build a business that actually respects the reality of fluctuating capacity.

Instead of conforming to standard business models that demand constant, high-energy output, Sarah prioritizes sustainable systems and dark humor to stay afloat. She is an advocate for dropping perfectionism and building a business that accommodates your needs rather than fighting them.

Find Sarah online:

• Website: thewittyladybug.com
• Socials: @thewittyladybug (Instagram, Facebook, and Threads)

chronic illness, neurodivergence, small business, branding, audacity, pivoting, self-acceptance, entrepreneurship, mental health, community

In this episode, I sit down with Liz Cruz to explore sustainable social media strategies for creators navigating chronic illness, neurodivergence and low-energy seasons. We deconstruct the "hustle" culture of content creation, offering a roadmap for building an authentic community without the burnout. Together, we cover actionable approaches to platform management, effective content pillars, and overcoming the mental barriers to showing up online—helping you find a rhythm that feels uniquely yours and genuinely cozy.

• Sustainable Strategy: Prioritize content creation that fits your capacity, especially when managing chronic illness or neurodivergence.
• Platform Alignment: Choose platforms based on your energy and strengths; Facebook for community, Instagram for connection, and LinkedIn for lower-frequency, high-value posts.
• Faceless Content: Showcase products, processes, or your space using text overlays and personal stories to connect without needing to be on camera.
• Authenticity: Focus on building community through a clear message rather than chasing perfection.
• Energy Management: Ditch outdated rules and "shiny object syndrome." Create content you genuinely enjoy, and batch-capture B-roll to save time.
• Efficient Workflow: Use scheduling apps like Metricool to streamline planning, and focus on repurposing and reusing content to stay consistent without burnout.
• Meaningful Analytics: Ignore vanity metrics. Focus on engagement that drives growth, such as shares, saves, and watch time.
• Sustainable Consistency: Define a posting schedule that works for you, rather than feeling pressured to meet generic growth targets.

Liz Cruz is a Social Media Strategist and the founder of Cruz Social Co. She specializes in helping creators navigate the complexities of social media, particularly those managing chronic illness, neurodivergence, or low-energy seasons. With a focus on sustainable, authentic community building, Liz helps her clients create strategies that feel manageable and genuinely cozy. You can find her online at @cruzsocialco or visit her website at cruzsocial.co.

Thanks For Listening!! 

Work With Me - https://chronicallycozylife.com/work-with-me/

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Join the Cozy Creators Club  - subscribepage.io/jointhecreatorsclub

Discover More Chronically Ill and Neurodivergent Owned Businesses - https://chronicallycozylife.com/business-directory-2-0/

Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/chronicallycozylife/

Threads

https://www.threads.com/@chronicallycozylife

Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Af)

I talk to Tiffany Leader to discuss the challenges of burnout, especially for chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs. 

After commiserating together and sharing our own experiences, tiffany share 

various strategies for managing energy, the importance of self-compassion, and the role of support systems in preventing burnout. 

We explore the ways hustle culture has gotten its hold on us and how the culture is changing, especially with the increase of more chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs in the workforce. 

Tiffany also shares her experiences with RV life as a means of avoiding burnout and emphasizes the significance of creating micro moments of wellness. 

Tiffany Leader is the CEO and Licensed Clinical Social Worker of See the Wonder, a mental health and wellness company focused on helping chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs and service providers recover from burnout and compassion fatigue. Her approach emphasizes observing awe and wonder in the world to facilitate healing. Tiffany offers a variety of services, including virtual therapy in Florida and Nevada, specialized coaching, and training for organizations and nonprofits. You can find more of her work at seethewonder.net.

Cozy Chats is a podcast normalizing a cozier way to do business for chronically exhausted entrepreneurs. 

My name is Randi - and I am a Cozy Content Strategist helping Chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs, grow their business in a way that works with their capacity. 

Work With Me - https://chronicallycozylife.com/work-with-me/

Looking for More Episode - https://chronicallycozylife.com/blogs-cozy-chats-podcast/

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Join the Cozy Creators Club  - subscribepage.io/jointhecreatorsclub

Discover More Chronically Ill and Neurodivergent Owned Businesses - https://chronicallycozylife.com/business-directory-2-0/

I talked to Abigail Alvarez - a podcast manager and content repurposing specialist - and together we explored the world of podcasting, discussing its anti-capitalistic nature, the importance of community, and strategies for content creation and SEO. 

She also shares her personal experiences as a chronically ill entrepreneur, and emphasizes the flexibility and adaptability of podcasting as a medium. 

We covered practical tips for starting a podcast, including hosting options, marketing strategies, and the significance of finding the right guests. Overall, the conversation highlights the empowering aspects of podcasting and the importance of creating a supportive community.

Meet the Cozy Creator

Abigail Alvarez is a podcast manager and content repurposing specialist who advocates for an anti-capitalistic approach to business through community building and sharing expertise. 

As a chronically ill, neurodivergent entrepreneur, she focuses on flexible content strategies that allow creators to reach multiple platforms without burnout. Abigail specializes in helping business owners launch and manage podcasts, turning long-form audio into sustainable marketing assets through SEO and strategic repurposing.

Threads: @abigailralvrez

Email: [email protected]

Schedule a Strategy Session (mention this episode for $30 off!)

Social Media Solutions Etsy Store

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Podcasting and Connection

01:50 Navigating the Freelance World

04:19 The Anti-Capitalistic Nature of Podcasting

07:55 Content Creation and Repurposing Strategies

11:59 Understanding Podcast Hosting and Distribution

16:06 SEO Basics for Podcasters

23:58 Overcoming Marketing Challenges

31:16 Flexibility and Freedom in Podcasting

37:56 Finding Balance with Chronic Illness

44:20 Connecting with Guests and Building Community

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04 

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate) 

I talked to Abigail Alvarez - a podcast manager and content repurposing specialist - and together we explored the world of podcasting, discussing its anti-capitalistic nature, the importance of community, and strategies for content creation and SEO. 

She also shares her personal experiences as a chronically ill entrepreneur, and emphasizes the flexibility and adaptability of podcasting as a medium. 

We covered practical tips for starting a podcast, including hosting options, marketing strategies, and the significance of finding the right guests. Overall, the conversation highlights the empowering aspects of podcasting and the importance of creating a supportive community.

Abigail Alvarez is a podcast manager and content repurposing specialist who advocates for an anti-capitalistic approach to business through community building and sharing expertise. 

As a chronically ill, neurodivergent entrepreneur, she focuses on flexible content strategies that allow creators to reach multiple platforms without burnout. Abigail specializes in helping business owners launch and manage podcasts, turning long-form audio into sustainable marketing assets through SEO and strategic repurposing.

Threads: @abigailralvrez

Email: [email protected]

Schedule a Strategy Session (mention this episode for $30 off!)

Social Media Solutions Etsy Store

Takeaways

• Podcasting as an anti-capitalistic platform
• Repurposing content across multiple platforms Podcasting is adaptable to the needs of chronically ill individuals
• Podcasting allows for flexible content creation and scheduling

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Podcasting and Cozy Energy Saving Tips
• 05:59 Monetization and Community Building in Podcasting
• 16:59 Search Engine Optimization (SEO) for Podcasting
• 25:20 Organic Learning and Skill Development
• 31:02 The Freedom of Podcasting
• 36:07 Adapting to Chronic Illness in Business
• 43:00 Finding Guests for Your Podcast

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04 

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate) 

I spoke with Candice, a mental health therapist and burnout coach, about the challenges and strategies of balancing parenthood, neurodivergence, and running a business. 

We discussed the importance of building a burnout-proof life, and the necessity of aligning values and intentions. Candice shares insights on creating effective systems, the significance of communication in relationships, and how to involve children in work and hobbies. 

Of course we also emphasize the need for self-care, understanding personal limits, and finding creative solutions to manage overwhelm.

Candice Catoire is a mental health therapist, author, and a burnout and balance coach who specializes in supporting freelance creative moms, particularly those who are neurodivergent and chronically ill. 

Her mission is to help clients build a "burnout-proof life" by establishing personalized rhythms and systems that align with their values and intentions. Through her coaching, Candice offers strategies for managing the mental load of motherhood and entrepreneurship, enabling women to find balance and confidence without sacrificing their well-being. 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soul_cadence_coaching/

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:45 - Navigating Parenthood and Business

02:10 - Transitioning to Coaching During the Pandemic

04:44 - The Impact of Telehealth on Therapy

05:59 - Building a Burnout-Proof Life

07:49 - Identifying Values and Intentions

10:48 - Systems for Managing Overwhelm

13:59  - Creating Effective Systems

16:58 - Communication and Delegation in Relationships

21:13 - Supporting Those with Limited Resources

32:20 - Involving Kids in Work and Hobbies

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04 

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate) 

In this episode I took some time to slow down and get cozy with Kirien, a multi-passionate mindfulness practitioner, about the importance of slowing down and creating a cozy space around you. 

He talks about building his practice and space all around the concept of mindfulness, and wanting to help others find that peace as well. Kirien shares insights into various modalities such as Reiki, sound healing, and forest therapy, emphasizing the role of the environment and energy in promoting relaxation and healing which includes the concept of kawaii (which means cute in chinese) and how creating a cozy space can enhance the healing experience. 

Kirien also discusses the use of tarot as a tool for self-discovery and the importance of communicating with our surroundings to foster a sense of belonging and peace.

As collector of knowledge Kiran is working to put together his collection of healing skills and modalities to create a cozy and healing space to help his clients relax and connect with themselves. 

Website: https://www.reclaimingbelonging.com/

Socials: https://www.instagram.com/reclaimingbelonging/

Key Takeaways:

• The practice of Mindfulness is about being present and accessible to everyone and every individual's healing journey is unique and should be respected.
• Modalities like Reiki can help facilitate relaxation and energy flow and Sound healing can interrupt mental noise and promote mindfulness. Forest therapy encourages engagement with nature for healing.
• Creating a cozy environment can enhance the healing experience and Kawaii culture can bring joy and comfort into healing spaces. Communicating with our environment can foster a sense of belonging.
• Tarot can serve as a tool for self-discovery and reflection.

• 00:00 - Introduction to Mindfulness and Healing
• 02:38 - Exploring Reiki and Energy Healing
• 05:54 - The Journey into Mindfulness Practices
• 08:50 - Sound Healing and Its Impact
• 11:48 - Forest Therapy and Nature's Role in Healing
• 14:49 - The Concept of Kawaii in Healing Spaces
• 17:42 - Creating Cozy and Healing Environments
• 20:58 - Communicating with Space and Place
• 23:46 - Virtual Healing Practices
• 26:39 - Using Tarot for Self-Discovery
• 29:41- Conclusion and Resources

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04 

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate) 

A Cozy Chat with Jess of Jess Creatives About How your Website and SEO can Work while you Rest

Jess and I dive into the importance of websites and SEO! If you're feeling overwhelmed by digital marketing, this guide will break down the essentials for you.

With social media's growing dominance, many may question the necessity of owning a website. However, Jess argues that having your own platform is essential. She describes SEO as a form of self-care, allowing entrepreneurs to attract clients without the constant pressure of social media.

While many entrepreneurs find SEO intimidating and often feel lost amidst the jargon, Jess emphasizes that at its core, SEO is about understanding what potential clients are searching for and integrating those keywords into your content. The landscape of SEO has evolved; it’s no longer enough to simply stuff your content with keywords. 

Meet the Cozy Creator

Bio

Jessica Freeman, the founder of Jess Creatives, has built her business over the past 15 years, specializing in website design and SEO. Unlike many who shift between businesses, Jessica has remained steadfast in her mission to help entrepreneurs, particularly those in the health sector, enhance their online visibility. Her passion for both aesthetics and the technical aspects of SEO makes her a unique voice in the industry. As she puts it, “I love making it look nice, but I’m also here to nerd out about the keywords, the fonts, the data.” 

Website: https://jesscreatives.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesscreatives/

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04 

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate) 

On This Episode of Cozy Chats I had such an engaging chat with Lyndsey Hanna where we dove into the importance of setting boundaries, especially for neurodivergent folks.

Lyndsey shared her whole journey in HR, talking about the challenges of speaking up for yourself at work and how crucial it is to know your own energy and environment.

We also dove into some really practical stuff like using contracts for setting boundaries, how the workplace culture is shifting with generational change, and just how important communication is for getting your needs met.

Meet the Cozy Creator

Lyndsey Hanna is an HR professional with 15 years of experience, who is now an independent consultant dedicated to changing the world by changing our relationship with work. As a neurodivergent entrepreneur, she uses her experience to advocate for authentic self-expression and boundary-setting in the workplace.

You can find her work under @NorthStarHR or @NorthStarHRAZ.

Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/northstarhraz
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/northstarhraz/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Boundaries
03:09 Lyndsey's Journey in HR and Neurodivergence
06:06 Understanding Self and Setting Boundaries
09:11 Advocating for Yourself in the Workplace
12:01 The Importance of Communication and Contracts
15:04 Navigating People-Pleasing Tendencies
17:59 Building Relationships and Asking for Clarity
29:43 Observing Interactions: The Art of People Watching
32:32 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: A Mindset Shift
34:41 Learning from Conversations: Embracing Mistakes
36:45 Setting Boundaries: The Challenge of Language
40:59 Dealing with Disrespect: The Asshat Dilemma
42:45 Advocating for Yourself: The Greater Good
46:39 The Future of Work: Neurodivergence in the Workplace
50:53 Chronic Illness and Advocacy: Navigating the Workplace
52:44 Finding Your Voice: Self-Communication and Purpose

Thanks again for listening!

Learn More about the Chronically Cozy Creators Community - https://chronicallycozylife.com

If you enjoyed this episode, you can support the podcast by leaving a tip - https://buy.stripe.com/aFaeVede58pu9DYe7L9sk04

Want to be our Next Guest? Fill out the Application - https://chronicallycozylife.com/cozy-chats-podcast-feature-request/

Podcasts are filmed and edited using Riverside.com Podcasting software - https://riverside.sjv.io/jeoE7Z (#Affiliate)