Nick Dempsey is an Australian disability advocate, motivational speaker, and content creator whose life changed dramatically after a diving accident on his 21st birthday left him with a spinal cord injury and quadriplegia. While celebrating with friends at his parents’ home, he misjudged a dive into a shallow backyard pool, dislocating his neck upon impact.

"Just after talking about how good my mates are, they broke my neck and then went down to the pub..."

Nick has since become a powerful voice in the disability community. He shares his journey candidly on platforms like TikTok and through his podcast “Chats From A Chair,” where he explores life with a disability and broader issues of representation and accessibility.

In an episode of the ListenABLE podcast, Nick discussed his lived experience and the innovative solutions he’s developed to maintain independence—including an adaptive drinking glove he designed himself. He also speaks openly about the mental health challenges and relationship dynamics that come with life post-injury.

Nick’s efforts go beyond advocacy. He has become a registered marriage celebrant, further proving that life after injury can still be filled with purpose, creativity, and connection. His story highlights the importance of normalising disability through storytelling, embracing vulnerability, and finding strength in community.

Want to support Nick? Check our the links below!

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickkdempsey/
• The Rolling Celebrant: https://www.instagram.com/the_rolling_celebrant/
• Drinking Buddy: https://www.instagram.com/_drinkingbuddy_/
• Chats from a Chair: https://www.instagram.com/chatsfromachair_podcast/

Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/gTxHIdWFz1A

Grab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.
https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch

Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.