Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong

"The journey of self-acceptance is ongoing and deeply personal."

Jennifer Gasner, author of *My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis*,

shares her journey of self-acceptance and understanding of her own identity. She explores the importance of supportive workplaces, the power of tell your own story, and addressing misconceptions about disability.

Jennifer also highlights her personal growth in accepting help and fostering inclusivity. Her story is a powerful testament to self-acceptance, resilience, and the push for a more inclusive world, providing guidance for anyone navigating their own journey.

Timestamps

0:00 Jennifer Gasner’s Story 

10:45 Finding Balance

20:30 Embracing Change

30:00 Breaking Barriers

45:15 Everyday Triumphs

55:00 Redefining Strength

1:05:00 Looking Forward

Connect with Jennifer Gasner

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gasner-4b1aaa50/ 

Website:https://jennifergasner.com/ 

My Unexpected Life by Jennifer Gasner: https://www.amazon.com/My-Unexpected-Life-Finding-Diagnosis/dp/B0CCCPG1ZJ 

Author and Activist, Lauren Melissa, shares a powerful story of resilience and creativity. Diagnosed with autism in her twenties, Lauren Melissa turned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic into an opportunity, hand-writing a novel that was later accepted by Bold Strokes Books. 

Based in New York City, she passionately advocates for the representation of queer, BIPOC, and disabled individuals in fiction, bringing to life diverse, multiracial, neurodivergent, and queer characters. Her journey is a powerful testament to the strength found at the intersections of identity and creativity.

Timestamps

08:27 Getting Into Writing

16:03 Having Relatable Characters in Fiction

21:16 Portraying Neurodiversity in Fiction 

25:09 Getting Published As An Independent Publisher

33:34 Advocacy on Autism, Race, and Queerness

44:12 Social Expectations, Codependence, and Autistic Identity

Connect with Lauren Melissa Ellzey

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenmellzey 

Website: https://laurenmelissaellzey.com/ 

"I don't concern myself with what they get wrong. I like to just show up as myself and then let any preconceived notion, if there is any, flow like, float away”

Oliver Scheier, is a 19-year-old filmmaker, artist, and sophomore in college. Oliver discusses his approach to authenticity in both his work and personal life. He shares insights on his short film "Read a Page," his journey as a young artist, and how he navigates the perceptions of others.

Key Moments

00:00 Embracing individuality

13:01 Life-changing question

15:12 Gaelynn Lea's inspiring violin journey

23:54 Grateful for diverse talent support

26:59 Joy in directing, beyond acting

37:43 University program: ADHD, autism support

49:50 Educators' role in accessibility

Connect with  Oliver Scheier

Website: https://news.tulane.edu/news/tulane-freshman-muscular-dystrophy-finds-joy-and-fulfillment-campus 

Read a Page: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9SfkFG3lL4 

Your co-hosts Erin & Lily have a special in-person segment for the first time ever on the podcast. They Kick things off by discussing the significance of Disability Pride Month and the joys of creating content together as friends who are both disabled.

They also discuss some light-hearted topics like newfound interests—Erin’s evolving relationship with pizza and Lily’s dive into the world of fantasy books, including some great disability representation in certain titles. They get real about the power of virtual friendships, especially within the disability community, and how these connections help navigate their experiences authentically.

Timestamps

09:19 Embracing wheelchair for comfort

21:02 Public perception and aging with disability

26:21 Masculinity, ableism, and disability

31:51 Susan B. Anthony's advocacy

35:09 Government, ableism, and organizing change

48:18 Theater accessibility solutions

52:19 Budget pushback on accessibility

59:55 Theater, friendships, and community

Connect with Lily Newton

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-newton-3b0b5b229

Website: https://www.easterseals.com/

Connect with Erin Hawley

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinhawley2

Website: https://www.easterseals.com

In this episode, hosts Erin and Lily interview Jenna Bainbridge, an actress, singer, and accessibility advocate. Jenna shares her journey as the first wheelchair user to perform in a new musical on Broadway, debuting in the award-winning "Suffs." She discusses her career and daily life as an ambulatory wheelchair user, challenging misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal freedom.

Jenna explains how her wheelchair enhances her ability to navigate New York City, offering independence in an often inaccessible environment. She highlights the spectrum of capabilities and needs, breaking down binary views of disability. Her role in "Suffs" underscores the power of collective activism and the importance of every action in contributing to a larger movement.

The episode also touches on Jenna's work with Consultability, a consulting company she co-founded to make theater spaces more accessible. Her experiences offer a rich discussion on the intersections of art, disability, and advocacy, providing listeners with a deeper understanding of inclusivity's importance in all areas of life.

Timestamps

00:00 Wheelchair allows freedom and less exhaustion.

09:19 Embracing wheelchair use for everyday comfort.

12:06 Navigating public perception of disability is exhausting.

21:02 Disability euphemisms conceal the reality of aging.

26:21 Masculinity and ableism 

31:51 Susan B. Anthony's advocacy, protests, and power.

35:09 Messy government, ableist viewpoints, organizing for change.

43:06 Inclusion in SUFFs provides representation for disabilities.

48:18 Theater accessibility efforts focus on practical solutions.

52:19 Budget pushback about accessibility improvements. 

59:55 Theater creates close friendships and community quickly.

01:01:42 Interview wrap-up 

Connect with Jenna Bainbridge

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bainbridgejenna/?hl=en

Website: https://www.jennabainbridge.com/

Suff the Musical: https://suffsmusical.com/

Your co-hosts Erin & Lily have a special segment today called “Just Between Us!” Today’s episode is all about the importance of Disability Pride Month. They share their thoughts on why it's crucial to celebrate being disabled and not just focus on ableism. Erin & Lily also discuss how pride in their identities as disabled people and as friends empowers them. 

We hope you enjoy today’s real (and unfiltered) episode. Happy Disability Pride Month!

Timestamps

04:06 Claiming pride in queer and disabled identity.

06:46 I understand the need to educate, but...

13:14 Navigating disability pride in online content.

14:12 Discussion on sharing disabled experiences and challenges.

18:06 Experience of cultural recognition.

21:38 Embracing disability pride, simplifying routines for ease.

28:25 Being proud of oneself fights ableism.

Connect with Lily Newton

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lily-newton-3b0b5b229

Website: https://www.easterseals.com/

Connect with Erin Hawley

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinhawley2

Website: https://www.easterseals.com/

Amanda McGrory, a four-time Paralympian and seven-time Paralympic medalist shares her journey as an elite athlete. She addresses the pervasive stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding disabled athletes and how they are often misrepresented in the media.

Throughout the conversation, the importance of authentic representation in media and sports is highlighted, focusing on the significance of community support. She discusses her struggles with eating disorders and finding community through adaptive sports.

Amanda discusses the critical need for authentic representation in sports and media, highlighting how real portrayals can create a more inclusive society. Her insights reveal that being a disabled athlete is just one facet of her multifaceted identity. Amanda advocates for a broader recognition of the everyday achievements of people with disabilities without sensationalism.

Erin, Lily, and Amanda discuss disability pride and the power of community. Amanda shares about the lack of control she felt as a child and how that led to her struggles with eating. They talk about the power of finding community with other disabled people and how finding adaptive sports brought Amanda the community that led her to her own healing and sense of pride in her identity. 

Timestamps

08:53 Amanda’s athletic career trajectory.

12:19 Athletes and inspiration are both complex issues.

19:21 Realizing potential through disability and the inspiration narrative.

24:55 The harm of overcoming narratives, Disability Pride Month.

31:14 Amanda’s unexpected career in broadcasting.

34:12 Lived experience is crucial for understanding disability.

39:15 Amanda’s experience struggling with eating, finding support, and control.

48:57 Airline staff often disregard the needs of disabled passengers.

54:37 The importance of disability history.

57:16 University of Illinois Galesburg campus program summary.

01:02:18 Emphasizing the importance of accessibility, University of Illinois Accessibility

Connect with Amanda McGrory

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-mcgrory

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alittlechipped/?hl=en

Website: http://www.amandamcgrory.com/

In this episode, Chelsea Bear, a content creator and disability advocate, shares her experiences and challenges as a lifestyle influencer. Chelsea highlights the importance of embracing her disability wholeheartedly and the sense of community and validation it brings. She discusses how Disability Pride Month encourages individuals to own their disabilities proudly, even on tough days.

The co-hosts Erin and Lily resonate with Chelsea's experiences, sharing their struggles and triumphs in accepting their disabilities, while emphasizing the transformative power of community and shared experiences.

The episode showcases Chelsea's impactful transition from a public relations professional to a dynamic social media advocate. Her authentic and organic approach to content creation, driven by personal stories and unfiltered passion, sets her apart. Chelsea candidly discusses the pressures of being a disability advocate and the balance between addressing systemic issues and sharing her narrative.

Timestamps

00:00 Intros and Audio Descriptions

03:39 Addressing assumptions about living with physical disability.

08:24 PR career taught communication and brand values.

11:45 Creating social content to connect and share.

15:41 Pressure to advocate for disabilities in lifestyle.

17:29 Learning journey, advocacy, spread awareness, disability, daily impact.

20:34 Discussion on disability experience and authenticity concern.

24:25 Welcoming community addressing accessibility and disabilities.

29:20 Accepting disability empowers connection and self-worth.

30:50 Taking ownership of identity leads to pride.

36:38 Social media expanded my disability community connections.

38:29 Social media can connect and empower people.

42:37 Learning to navigate health challenges with openness.

45:53 Medical schools need to be more inclusive.

49:56 Embracing disability transformed my life positively.

Connect with Chelsea Bear

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelseabear/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realchelseabear/?hl=en 

Website: https://chelseabear.com/ 

In this episode, Cory shares his experiences exploring the world as a wheelchair user, from group trips to international destinations to navigating the challenges of air travel accessibility. Learn about Cory’s blog, Curb Free with Cory Lee, and its company non-profit, The Curb Free Foundation, which funds dream trips for wheelchair users. Discover practical tips on accessible travel planning, insights on preparing for travel obstacles, and the importance of building a strong community for people with disabilities. 

Cory also talks about his children's books that feature characters with disabilities, aiming to educate and promote inclusivity among young readers. 

Don't miss hearing Cory's positive travel experiences and the joy of accessible tourism. 

Timestamps

00:00 Cory’s work includes a children's book and foundation.

03:34 Public disregard for me becomes increasingly unsettling.

09:24 Excited traveler faces job rejection, plans trip.

10:41 Lack of travel info inspired Curb Free with Cory Lee blog

14:34 Launched the Curb Free Foundation in 2022.

17:41 Promote travel to more accessible destinations.

23:04 Book promotes wheelchair travel and representation for children.

24:24 Children's books shape perception and combat ableist stereotypes.

29:40 Wheelchair broke, duct taped, urged DOT report.

32:24 Air travel for wheelchair users is improving.

34:17 Switzerland trip with incredible accessibility experiences.

38:15 Wheelchair user plans trips 6-12 months ahead.

40:14 Double-sided Velcro and Able Sling improve transfers.

45:12 Community brings joy and understanding to members.

47:18 Advocate for visibility and living full lives.

51:30 Travel insurance with preexisting conditions saves money.

Connect with Cory Lee

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-lee/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curbfreecorylee/?hl=en

Website: https://curbfreewithcorylee.com/

In today’s episode, we have Spencer West! From discussing the challenges of accessing queer spaces and nightlife to setting boundaries as a disabled content creator, this conversation sheds light on pivotal issues affecting the LGBTQ+ and disabled communities. 

Spencer shares his personal experiences, advocacy work, and the role of social media in promoting awareness.

Don't miss this engaging episode with Spencer West!

Timestamps

00:00 Spencer West: Keynote speaker, activist, trailblazer, author.

06:00 Navigating intersectional identities and privacy boundaries on TikTok.

12:47 The importance of sharing disabled experiences in media.

16:24 Relate stories to others, especially healthcare workers.

17:17 Sharing personal stories, lessons, and avoiding inspiration porn.

20:41 Learning boundaries from an older mentor, embracing self.

26:46 Struggles with queer identity in nightlife venues.

28:16 Toronto has organizations creating accessible spaces.

36:03 Creating regular content as a revenue stream.

38:04 Grateful for age and experience in authenticity.

43:23 Learning about disability justice, confronting internalized ableism.

46:02 RuPaul's reminder: love yourself, love others.

48:56 Recognition of mutual support in personal relationships.

51:34 Privilege of walking, trouble with wheelchair damage.

54:49 Agreement on disability visibility through social media.

57:35 Celebrate LGBTQ+ and disability pride this month.

Connect with Spencer West 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spencer2thewest/?hl=en

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer2thewest?lang=en