In this powerful conversation with disability advocate Jenna Udenberg, we explore the profound journey of living with juvenile arthritis since age seven and transforming personal challenges into a platform for disability rights. Jenna doesn't just share her story—she fundamentally reshapes how we think about disability, accessibility, and human dignity.
Disability advocate Jenna Udenberg shares her journey of living with juvenile arthritis since age seven and her mission to create more inclusive, accessible spaces through education and storytelling. She challenges negative disability stereotypes while offering insights on advocacy, self-care, and the complexities of navigating a world not designed for wheelchair users.

• Disability is not a bad word – negative connotations come from historical treatment and ableist thinking
• People with disabilities face infantilization despite their accomplishments and capabilities
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes minimum requirements but is an unfunded mandate with limited enforcement
• Disabled Americans spend $10,000-$30,000 more annually just to exist while systems keep many below poverty level
• Finding your community is crucial – seek out disability centers, independent living resources, and immerse yourself in disability culture
• Overcome other people's interpretations of who you are by being self-reflective and giving yourself grace

To learn more about Jenna's work or to purchase her memoir "Within My Spoke: A Tapestry of Pain, Growth, and Freedom," visit AboveAndBeyondWithU.com.

Listen to this episode to gain a transformative understanding of disability rights and walk away with Jenna's powerful message about overcoming "other people's interpretations of who I am or who I should be" through self-reflection, purpose, and grace. Ready to see accessibility through a new lens? This conversation will change how you think about inclusion.

Thank you for listening!

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Thank you for listening!