Everything You Know About Disability Is Wrong

In this episode, hosts Lily Newton and Erin Hawley sit down with actor, model, content creator, and CEO of the lifestyle brand Live Solo,  Lolo Spencer. Known for her advocacy work and trailblazing efforts in changing the narrative around disability, Lolo shares her incredible journey and vision for a more inclusive world.

We also explore the broader implications of representation in Hollywood and the importance of community building, with Lolo emphasizing the need for disabled actors to be cast in diverse roles. 

Tune in and be part of the movement towards a more inclusive society!

Timestamps

00:00 Lolo Spencer, actor and disability advocate, succeeds.

03:26 Misconceptions about ambulatory wheelchair users' disabilities.

07:51 Difficulty accessing doctor's office due to age.

10:48 Feeling judged for being young and able.

14:03 Friends collaborate, enjoy and resonate with humor.

18:28 Importance of clear communication for disability accommodations.

19:38 Production must fully support disabled talent's needs.

25:47 Enhancing audience experience through laughter and enjoyment.

26:34 Season's exciting trailer, surprisingly, accessible to all.

30:46 Creating community through inclusive lifestyle brand blog.

34:34 Bringing community together through events and activities.

38:19 US healthcare detrimental; bias against black women.

40:51 Questioning the healthcare system's dismissiveness towards accessibility.

45:15 Lily searching for EDS diagnosis and medical diversity.

47:18 Collaboration of traditional and alternative medicine beneficial.

50:55 Community ties into information sharing and health.

55:08 Attitude towards disability needs to change.

57:25 Lolo praised for support and collaboration efforts.

Connect with Lolo Spencer

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

Visit Live Solo: https://www.livesolo.

In today's episode, Erin and Lily are joined by Tina Friml, a New York-based comedian who shares her unique experiences navigating the comedy scene. We'll explore the misconceptions about disabilities, the role of humor and radical self-acceptance, and turning casual ableism into comedy gold.

From the sometimes illogical things Tina can and cannot do, to her decision to only perform in ADA accessible venues, this episode is packed with insights.

Get ready to tune in, laugh, and learn as we welcome you to another episode of Everything You Know About Disability is Wrong. Let's get started!

Timestamps

00:00 Disabled with mild cerebral palsy needing accommodations.

09:39 Challenges of being labeled and misunderstood.

10:56 Navigating disability and others' perceptions and actions.

19:37 Comedy often exploits societal expectations for jokes.

25:25 Some struggle to understand disabilities, affecting interactions.

29:18 Prioritizing ADA accessibility at event venues promoted.

34:04 Struggling to find accessible venues in various cities.

43:59 Unexpectedly positive experience appearing on Jimmy Fallon.

50:27 Easterseals podcast highlights equity, access, and accommodation.

51:41 Traveling alone, finding increasing airport accommodations.

01:00:45 Comedy community support, challenges of being underestimated.

01:02:22 Disability can be both a benefit and drawback.

Connect with Tina Friml:

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

In today's episode, your hosts Lily Newton and Erin Hawley have a heartfelt conversation with our guest, Rawan Tuffaha. Rawan is the lead singer of the ASD Band, a group composed entirely of autistic musicians, which shines a light on talent within the autistic community. Besides her music career, Rawan is an advocate for autism acceptance and disability employment, challenging misconceptions and pushing for more inclusive practices.

Join us as we delve into Rawan's journey, from forming the ASD Band to her academic pursuits at Metal Works Institute, her experiences with the documentary about her band, and her thoughts on the misconceptions people often have about individuals on the autism spectrum. We'll also hear about her challenging yet rewarding experiences managing school, autism, and her music career, including her exciting upcoming album, "Almost Flawless."

This episode is not only an exploration of Rawan's personal and professional life but also a broader discussion of the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities as they transition into adulthood, particularly in accessing employment and continuing to receive support.

Stay tuned as we celebrate the exceptional contributions of individuals like Rawan and discuss how organizations like Easterseals are paving the way for full access, equity, and inclusion for people with disabilities and their families.

Timestamps

00:00 Podcast featuring Rawan Tuffaha, lead of ASD Band.

04:10 Documentary creation, album release amidst COVID-19 impact.

08:18 Performed with Roger Hodgson, formed a band and overcame setbacks.

11:23 Started playing the toy piano and learned by ear.

14:41 Honest, raw music conveying autistic experience powerfully.

19:44 Gratitude for positive influences and values learned.

22:28 Struggle with identity and trust in popularity.

25:32 Teenagers realize the importance of loyal, caring friends.

29:47 Passion for the Jonas Brothers, autism acceptance.

31:58 Struggling with travel plans, rehearsals, and charity.

35:04 Understanding the travel process with help from family.

38:26 Autism diagnosis at 1, received varied support.

40:57 Seeking support in university, aiming for success.

46:00 Struggles finding a job as an autistic person. Need for inclusion and understanding.

49:51 Multitasking autism advocate defies stereotypes with grace.

Connect with Rawan Tuffaha

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rawansinger/?ref=tablehopper.com

Navigating Independence and Relationships: Subodh and Aarti's Journey on EYK | Season 3, Episode 2

Welcome to a special episode of Everything You Know, presented by Easterseals. Today, we've got a truly enlightening conversation lined up with our guests, Subodh Garg and his sister, Aarti Garg. Subodh, a charismatic individual diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, shares his journey towards independence, his exceptional memory, and his experiences with dating and social interactions. Aarti, who plays a crucial role in managing Subodh’s social engagements and safety online, provides insight into their sibling dynamics and the support systems that help Subodh navigate his challenges and aspirations.

In this episode, we delve into the importance of the diverse representation of autism in media, the critical role of technology in improving communication skills, and the universal struggles with dating and social skills. Subodh also discusses his participation in the show Love on the Spectrum, his employment goals in accounting, and his passion for travel. Join hosts Erin Hawley and Lily Newton as they explore these topics and more, offering a broader perspective on neurodiversity and the common human desires for love and connection. 

Stay tuned as we challenge the misconceptions about autism and celebrate the diverse capabilities and aspirations of individuals on the spectrum.

Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction to today's episode with hosts Erin Hawley and Lily Newton, featuring guests Subodh and Aarti Garg.

2:45 - Subodh Garg discusses his journey towards independence and his aspirations in accounting.

5:20 - Exploring the sibling dynamics between Subodh and Aarti Garg, including the misconceptions about their relationship.

7:40 - Aarti Garg talks about her role as a manager rather than a caretaker in Subodh's life.

10:15 - Challenges of making and maintaining friendships as adults, emphasized by Subodh's experiences.

13:30 - Subodh's take on his participation in Love on the Spectrum and developing his dating skills.

18:29 - The impact of "Love on the Spectrum" on Subodh’s life, as discussed by Aarti.

21:10 - Conversation about the universal struggle with dating and social skills.

24:05 - Subodh and community building: From online dating to maintaining connections with the show's cast.

27:50 - The transportation hurdles and Subodh's use of Access, a paratransit service.

30:16 - Subodh’s employment ventures at Teledelis and Insight, and his educational goals.

33:45 - Lily Newton and Aarti Garg critique the representation of disability in mainstream media and specific TV shows.

37:12 - The role of digital content in Subodh’s life, including his Instagram engagement and travel posts.

40:40 - Detailing the disability readathon initiative and its significance, shared by Erin Hawley.

43:28 - Reflections on maintaining friendships amidst life changes and busy schedules.

45:35 - Subodh’s exceptional memory skills and affinity for recalling specific dates and personal milestones.

49:20 - Deep dive into Subodh's past therapies, ongoing supportive services, and aspirations for travel.

52:15 - Discussion on the broader spectrum of autism and the personal ambitions of individuals with autism.

55:00 - Closing thoughts, upcoming initiatives, and a thank you to Subodh and Aarti Garg for their participation.

57:10 - Call to action for disability advocacy and an invitation to listen in to future episodes presented by Easterseals.

Connect with Subodh Garg

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

Connect with Aarti Garg

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

Join our hosts, Lily Newton and Erin Hawley, as they sit down with the riveting Gaelynn Lea, whose voice and violin strings resonate with the force of change, challenging our perceptions of ability and accessibility.

Imagine being told that your dream career is not designed for someone like you. Now picture breaking that mold and redefining what is possible. Gaelynn Lea did just that. Born with a physical disability, Gaelynn transformed the way the violin is played, gripping it like a cello. With this twist, she orchestrated her way to stardom after winning NPR's Tiny Desk concert. But her journey is more than a story of musical success it's a powerful narrative of breaking barriers and rewriting the stanzas of inclusivity.

Tune in, and you may just find that the key to unlocking true inclusivity and happiness lies within the stories that defy silence and demand to be heard.

Key Moments

10:39 Disability is more than just assumptions.

12:18 Name experiences, avoid overgeneralizing, and amplify underrepresented voices.

27:01 Rant on marriage inequality and divorce advice.

30:49 Advocating for disabled rights and innovation.

35:18 Teachers adapt instruments without needing deep disability knowledge.

43:41 Importance of owning your work and feelings.

46:09 Discovering hidden desires through writing memoirs.

54:48 Recognize the knowledge gap, educate, and make events accessible.

56:47 Advocate for accessibility and supporting accessible businesses.

01:01:52 Inappropriate discussion led to realization and job.

01:09:53 Disabled community excels; companies should embrace inclusion.

Connect with Gaelynn Lea

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

Website: https://violinscratches.com/