THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion

Episode 311- Seeing Beyond Limitations with Sara Freeman Smith


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What happens when your entire life changes in an instant? For Sara Freeman Smith, losing 95% of her vision wasn't the end of her story—it was the beginning of something much greater.

In this profound conversation, Sara shares her remarkable journey as a disability advocate, career navigator, and author of "Turning Stones Into Gems: Learn How to Find Purpose in Your Life and Career." With warmth and wisdom, she reveals how her greatest challenge became her greatest gift, teaching her the power of asking for help and the patience to receive divine guidance.

"God does not call the equipped; He equips the called," Sara explains, describing how her initial resistance transformed into acceptance and eventually purpose. Through her "Six P's" approach beginning with prayer and planning, she demonstrates how detours and challenges actually prepare us for future opportunities we couldn't imagine for ourselves.

The episode showcases remarkable accessibility technology, from smartphone features to the revolutionary Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses that allow Sara to read menus, mail, and navigate the world independently. For employers wondering about accommodations, Sara offers practical insights on creating accessible environments and understanding that simple adjustments make all the difference.

Perhaps most powerful is Sara's approach to disclosure and self-advocacy in professional settings. With the mantra "rejection is protection," she demonstrates how confidence in explaining one's needs while highlighting one's abilities creates the right match between talent and opportunity.

Whether you're facing your own challenges, supporting someone with a disability, or simply seeking inspiration to transform obstacles into opportunities, this episode will move you from what Sara calls a "pity party" to a "propel party." Visit urGems.com to discover more resources and connect with Sara's transformative message.



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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of InclusionBy Sara Gullihur-Bradford aka SJ Childs

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