The life of sobriety and navigating mental disability is something Louise Barnett understands. There have been so many misconceptions and misunderstandings about addiction and sobriety. In addition, mental disabilities are attacked rather than understood. Because of this, Louise discuss these topics on the show to bring awareness and effective advice she can provide so many. Even though many struggle with sobriety and mental wellness, Louise is determined to show that anyone can succeed. With a rich life as a writer, advocate, mother, wife, and businesswoman, Louise inspires others to aim high. Moreover, her warm spirit, witty personality, and goal-driven edge will motivate anyone.

"Disability isn't a definition. It does not define us. It's just a piece of the puzzle. It's my super power."~~~~ Louise Barnett

As a low vision individual, Angel Sapp represents the BIPOC, LGBTQIA, and disabled communities. With this week's discussion, Angel aims to let everyone know that the low vision, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA communities hold space and are just as viable in the workforce and anywhere else. Further, Angel discusses future plans of attending college as a psychologist, as well as various career work professions over the years (seamstress, receptionist, and freight shipping) and their lifestyle in the LGBTQIA community. Angel's on-point, direct, and humorous approach will captivate you. 

"Disability isn't limited."~~~Angel Sapp

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is here. According to a 2022 statistic from the National Breast Cancer Foundation, an estimated 287,500 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women in the U.S. as well as 51,400 new cases of non-invasive (in situ) breast cancer, and over 3.8 million breast cancer survivors in the United States.

This is a subject that will be discussed on Phenomenal Disabilities with upcoming guest during the month of October. Additionally, Tree Lowe will be documenting her journey after recent discovery she found. So STAY TUNED for this months showcase.

For Support:

Call us at: 1-800-227-2345

Other resources can be found at: https://www.cancer.org/support-programs-and-services.html

After surviving osteosarcoma and learning to navigate life on a whole new level after losing her hearing, Katie Farmer shares how she is processing everything and finding her creative flow along the way. With Katie's insight, parents can approach disabilities differently. Having worked in multiple fields: Special FX, music, fitness training, etc., Katie is committed to ending social stigmas and ableism. "Disabilities do not limit us because it does not make us less, but make us more because we have so much to offer."~~~Katie Farmer

With Myofascial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Environmental Illness / MCS, autoimmune, and other disabilities, Irina Rivkin provides the world with an educated perspective into her world. This is especially true in light of the COVID pandemic. Irina understands the challenges associated with various disabilities. Even so, it doesn't stop her from doing what she enjoys most: supporting college students in their educational journeys. Irina will not only provide informative information about herself and her personal life, but she will also perform live. So hold tight and enjoy this amazing show!

If you would like to donate to the scholarship fund Irina has created for college students, please go to https://theneverthelesswepersistscholarship.funraise.org 

Background music provided by Epicsounds, song and artist: Almost Sumer by Franz Gordon

As a paraplegic, Ushonda Wilson has learned to adapt to life despite losing mobility. Although she works full-time and juggles other responsibilities, she did not give up on her media dreams. With Ushonda's passion for life, career, supportive network, and family, she demonstrates what she wants of others. Ushonda provides her direct approach to enjoying life since so many people forget to embrace the simple aspects of it. In order to fulfill her dream, Ushonda continues to pave the way in the world, striving to bring joy to people's lives. With Ushonda's "super fly" attitude, she will bring the world's eyes to the bigger picture.

Melissa Jennifer Gonzales is not only a non-binary actor/singer, but also someone of the autistic community and an advocate. There is a widespread misconception about autism because so many people do not know what it is. Melissa's goal is to increase people's understanding of autism. In today's uncertain times, Melissa finds advocating to be a continuous process, but their passion for it will never waver. Melissa's story will captivate, educate, and provide clarity on finding an authentic drum. The most important thing is that Melissa is committed to making it up the Hollywood ladder.

The story of Mean Dave's journey from addiction to sobriety is heartfelt and direct. He has found the right seasoning for his sobriety palette thanks to a supportive network group. He mixes stand-up comedy with straight-forward messages about a variety of life topics. Throughout his performance, he leaves his audience in stitches with every punch line he utters. From community advocacy to comedy stand-up performances on stage, Mean Dave's journey toward sobriety continues. The purpose of this episode is to educate the world about addiction and sobriety, since many people do not understand why addiction can be classified as a disability. With Mean Dave's crassly direct approach about sobriety and everything that comes along with it, his core message is about keeping your eye on the prize of life and maintaining balance.

Nina G., is from the Northern California Bay Area. Despite having dyslexia and stuttering, she is an advocate for others proud and strong on her own terms. This talented woman strives to be heard on stage and is unapologetic about her disability. She has been in the industry for quite some time now, bringing joy to everyone's souls and filling them with humor. The most meaningful thing to take away from Nina's work is her motivation to live authentically in all contexts. Throughout the podcast, Nina will leave no stone unturned when it comes to humor and truth. In this episode, we aim to provide a direct and uplifting message about embracing who you are regardless of your community.

Diana Elizabeth Jordan is no newbie to the acting world, activism, and owning a business. In addition, she has not let her cerebral palsy hinder her career as an actress. Even as a child, she was involved in acting. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from California State University Long Beach. In addition to teaching acting, she has worked as an actress in theater, television, and film. Additionally, Diana is an artist, influencer, and online host of the Rainbow Butterfly Cafe. As a disabled actress and woman of color, she strives to break down stigmas and stereotypes in order to achieve her goals. In spite of the lack of understanding about cerebral palsy, it is important to provide the world with the truth from Diana's mouth about her journey as a rocking soulful woman who just loves to show off her magic both in front of and behind the camera.

Disclaimer: Listeners please understand that Diana does have cerebral palsy, so allow yourself to sit in a quiet space to fully listen to her clearly.