Embrace It with Lainie & Estela - Smashing Disability Stigmas

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In this empowering episode, we sit down with Maddi, an extraordinary individual whose journey has been defined by resilience and determination.

Graduating from Georgetown University with a passion for Spanish and Justice and Peace Studies, Maddi's life took an unexpected turn when a hemorrhagic stroke left her paralyzed on her left side. Amidst her recovery, she discovered a new passion for fashion, channeling her love for the arts into writing her first book, "Fashion Fwd: How Today's Culture Shapes Tomorrow's Fashion," published in September 2018.

But Maddi's story doesn't end there. Driven by her own experience with stroke recovery, she embarked on a new book project aimed at inspiring survivors of trauma. Through her words and experiences, she aims to empower others to seize control of their lives and transform obstacles into incredible opportunities.

Join us as Maddi shares her journey of resilience, creativity, and empowerment, proving that challenges can be the catalyst for remarkable transformation and personal growth.

• Follow Maddi on Instagram
• Read Maddi’s Books!
• Visit Maddi’s Website
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

More Links from Maddi!

• Register your interest for my Fast Fwd stroke survivor summit to take place on April 19 in NYC: 
• Book your spot to join my group trip to Bali (code MADDIBALI100 for $100 off): 
• Sign up for my community page: 

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

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In this inspiring episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Dustin, who was diagnosed with profound bilateral hearing loss at the young age of five. Despite this life-changing diagnosis, Dustin's story is one of resilience, empowerment, and a determination to spread positivity.

From school hearing exams to facing unexpected challenges, Dustin’s experiences have been both unique and universal. We explore the transformative moment in his life when a simple divider during a hearing test changed everything. No longer able to rely on lip reading, he surprised not only the school nurse but also his entire family.

Join us as Dustin shares how he navigated the challenges of growing up with hearing loss, turning adversity into an opportunity for growth. Through his platform, HearsDustin, he advocates for accessible and inclusive experiences, collaborating with brands and organizations to create a world where everyone, regardless of hearing ability, can thrive.

• Follow Dustin on Instagram
• Visit Dustin’s Website
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

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Send us Fan Mail

Despite the disability or condition, the path from denial to acceptance is anything but linear and smooth. We all have our own journeys to becoming the person we want to be. Sometimes that journey requires us to travel alone and other times we have are fortunate enough to find the support and guidance we need.

Becky Etchberger is a successful TV producer for many shows such as American Idol, The Voice & Last Week Tonight with John Oliver. She is also navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and disability due to CMT. In this episode, Becky reveals how she went from hiding her symptoms from dates and coworkers to embracing CMT with a life-changing surgery and all of its powerful lessons.

• Follow Becky on Instagram
• Read Becky’s Post on TREND-ABLE
• Watch Becky’s Mini Documentary, Date-ABLE
• Learn About CMT Surgery with HNF
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Yarelbys Túa Pachano, a Venezuelan model and influencer who is defying expectations and advocating for inclusivity. Yare’s story is not only about overcoming cancer and disability but also about the power of communication and kindness in her interactions.

We'll explore how Yare discusses her disability with strangers, shedding light on the misconceptions and taboos surrounding disabilities in her home country and beyond. She shares her experiences of responding to well-intentioned but offbeat questions and comments and addresses the common misunderstanding that being disabled prompts pity.

Moreover, Yarelbys reveals her approach to communicating effectively within her close circle—her partner and friends—especially when it comes to traveling and attending concerts and music festivals. Her story demonstrates that communication can bridge gaps, challenge stereotypes, and foster a more inclusive world.

• Follow Yare on Instagram
• Follow Yare on YouTube
• Follow Yare on TikTok
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

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Send us Fan Mail

In this episode, we're diving into how privilege can shape our access to healthcare and opportunities with the fabulous Dr. Akilah Cadet, who has spent an extensive part of her career designing training, coaching executives, and informing systematic change to improve the workforce experience for large organizations. 

We’re shedding light on how many forms of privilege can act like a golden ticket affecting how easily we access medical care and career opportunities. Tune in to gain Dr. Cadet’s valuable insight and resources for patient advocacy and why privilege matters to us all.

• Visit Dr. Cadet’s Website 
• Follow Dr. Cadet on Instagram
• Preorder Dr. Cadet’s Book
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Get ready to dive into a bubbling pot of heartwarming stories and culinary delights in this episode of 'Stirring Up Joy'! We're pulling up a seat at the virtual kitchen table with none other than the fabulous Alexis Hillyard, the mastermind behind the YouTube sensation Stump Kitchen. Join us as we savor every flavorful moment of her journey – from connecting over food with her partner to becoming a cooking sensation with a twist.

Imagine whipping up gluten-free vegan eats and stumptastic treats using her 'stump'! Alexis's infectious enthusiasm and creative spirit have transformed cooking into a joyous adventure. What started as a way to share her love for cooking has blossomed into a platform of empowerment for limb-different individuals, all with a pinch of Pride!

Discover how Alexis's kitchen became a stage where diverse voices shine as co-hosts, all while cooking up delicious dishes and sparking conversations that simmer with authenticity. With a dash of determination and a sprinkle of community, she's cooking up connections that span generations, cultures, and walks of life.

So grab your apron and tune in to this episode, where the sizzle of LGBTQ+ & disability pride meets the sizzle of culinary creativity. Let's celebrate the magic of Alexis Hillyard and Stump Kitchen as she stirs up not just recipes but a delicious sense of unity and joy!"

• Watch Stump Kitchen on YouTube 
• Follow Stump Kitchen on Instagram
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Ross, a seasoned veteran with 17 years of service, suffered an injury during his time in the military. As he transitioned into the civilian workforce, he participated in numerous workshops aiming to translate his skills effectively. However, it wasn't until his career counselor at the Department of Veterans Affairs introduced him to Inclusively that he realized what had been missing all along. 

Reflecting on his journey, Ross expresses, "I felt like I was exerting tremendous effort to align myself with employers, rather than finding a mutual meeting ground." Ross faced additional challenges due to his service dog named Perrin, his reliance on various assistive technologies, and his limited mobility stemming from his injury. When creating his profile on Inclusively, he swiftly realized that this platform provided what his previous experiences lacked—an opportunity for open and transparent conversations about his disability and the accommodations he requires.

• Check Inclusively’s Website
• Watch HNF’s Inclusively Website & Demo 
• Watch HNF’s Canine Companion Webinar
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Eliza is a musician, writer, speaker, and advocate — changing the way the world views disability.

Having established herself as one of Australia’s most important voices and striking songwriters of recent years, Castlemaine-based artist Eliza Hull has proven the longevity of her art, and continued evolution.

Growing up with CMT, Eliza recalls visiting dozens of doctors and being required to “walk in a straight line.” Decades later, she has transformed her journey into the powerful music and lyrics of her new single ‘Running Underwater.’ It’s the first song Hull has written about being disabled and living with CMT.  

In recent years, Hull has emerged as an accessibility advocate within the industry, her determination and approach to educating and sparking change for disability inclusion through her podcast and 2 powerful books. 

• Listen to Eliza’s Music
• Watch Eliza’s Powerful Music Video
• Check out Eliza’s Website
• Buy Eliza’s Book We’ve Got This
• Pre-order Eliza’s Children’s Book
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

Stacie Swindler has been drawn to horses since childhood. During her career in education, she began volunteering at a therapeutic horseback riding facility for  individuals with disabilities. After being amazed by the interactions she observed between the students and the horses, Stacie changed the trajectory of her life. Instead of returning to the classroom, she decided to partner with horses to improve the lives of those living with autism, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and a variety of physical disabilities.

Today Stacie is having a big impact with her work ! She holds a master's degree in education with an SV endorsement for special education and is trained in (CPI) Nonviolent Crisis Intervention, therapeutic horseback riding instruction, and as a certified Equine Assisted Therapy (EAT) practitioner.

Join us on a unique ride to the magic of horses and all of the gifts they have to offer!

• Check out Stacie’s Website
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace it with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us Fan Mail

After living with severely debilitating psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis for over 30 years, Nitika Chopra found that no matter how hard she tried, she always felt completely isolated and alone. For a long time, she assumed that it must have been because something was inherently broken or wrong with her. After getting the courage to open up about her health, she realized that every time she met someone who had a chronic illness, they felt the exact same way.

While Nitika’s career started over 10 years ago as the founder of a popular online magazine, the host of her own talk show on global television, and a brand ambassador for some of the most prestigious beauty brands on the market, in the midst of her success she felt a deep longing for something more. Something she could create that would truly have an impact on the lives of others. That passion sparked the idea to create Chronicon. After 10 years in content creation, Nitika launched Chronicon in the fall of 2019, an inclusive community-building event focused on those living with chronic illness. The New York City event sold out and had 2,000 live stream viewers. Join us as we share Nitika’s powerful journey and resources!

• Follow Nitika on Instagram
• Follow Chronicon on Instagram
• Check out Chronicon Event & Community
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Please leave us a review and help others find us! 

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: [email protected]

Subscribe to Embrace it with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show