The Different Ability® Podcast

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In this powerful episode, I sit down with Guita Movallali, a passionate advocate, psychologist, and leader in the world of early intervention for deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Born and raised in Iran, Guita shares her incredible journey of resilience, determination, and service. From earning a PhD in Psychology to founding Iran’s first parent support organization for families with deaf children, Guita has spent more than 30 years transforming lives through education, language, and inclusion.

Now living in Canada, she continues her mission through leadership roles in nonprofit organizations and her own foundation, all while uplifting families and building accessible systems of support. We talk about her personal and professional experiences, the importance of early childhood connection, and what it means to truly empower families from the start.

If you're passionate about advocacy, inclusion, and global stories that inspire, you won't want to miss this one.

Guita's Bio

Guita Movallali is a passionate leader and advocate in Family-Centred Early Intervention (FCEI) for deaf and hard-of-hearing children, with more than 30 years of experience spanning education, clinical practice, and nonprofit work across Iran and Canada. With a PhD in Psychology and a background in Audiology, Guita has dedicated her life to empowering families and transforming systems of support for Deaf children.

In Iran, Guita founded Parvaneha, the first parent support organization for families with deaf children, and introduced Persian Cued Speech to help deaf children access language visually. She was a university professor for over two decades and led numerous initiatives advancing inclusive early childhood education. Her innovative work earned her the 2016 Educator Award for Excellence and Innovative Leadership from the National Cued Speech Association.

Since relocating to Canada in 2021, Guita has continued her mission as Program & Development Manager at VOICE for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children, and currently as Executive Director of the Parent-Child Mother Goose Program®. She founded Faranak Impact Inc. and the Faranak Foundation, where she leads programs focused on family empowerment, inclusion, and early childhood learning.

A strong believer in the power of language, story, and culture, Guita has written, translated, and edited numerous books and children’s stories to reflect the experiences of Deaf children and their families. Through every project, she remains committed to ensuring that every family feels connected, supported, and empowered from the very beginning.

Connect with Guita

Instagram 

Website

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In this inspiring episode, Katey sits down with Rebeka Acosta, an advocate, educator, and proud mom, to talk about raising children who use their voices with confidence. Rebeka shares how her sons, both navigating medical complexities, have learned to advocate for themselves at a young age.

With honesty, heart, and a touch of humor, Rebeka reflects on the journey of watching her boys speak up for their needs, make their own decisions, and succeed in powerful ways. This episode is a celebration of growth, resilience, and the deep pride of a mom watching her children step into their own strength.

What You’ll Hear:

• How kids can learn to advocate for themselves
• Why trusting your children’s voice matters
• The power of modeling and encouraging self-expression
• Celebrating the small and big wins along the way

You’ll walk away feeling hopeful, empowered, and reminded of what’s possible when we lift each other up.

Rebeka's Bio

Rebeka Acosta is Nevada’s first Board Certified Patient Advocate and the Founder of A+J Patient Advocacy. After a 15-year career in healthcare business, she welcomed two children with complex medical conditions to her family. Those years pushed Rebeka to create a place where support and information would be readily available for families in need.

Rebeka is published in medical journals, has presented at national and state conferences, and was recognized as Pediatric Advocate of the Year at the 2023 Healthcare Advocate Summit. When not advocating, Rebeka enjoys curating a large house plant collection and floating in the pool. She lives in Las Vegas with her husband and two teens.

Connect with Rebeka

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Listen to Rebeka's first interview on the podcast HERE! 

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Author and Advocate Ted Neill joins the show to share his powerful journey from working at a home for orphans in Nairobi, Kenya, and then in human services, to becoming a full-time author of nearly 30 books! We explore his middle-grade book series that celebrates disabilities through young superheroes, as well as his advocacy work amplifying the voices of children he once cared for, who are now grown. 

Ted's Bio

Globetrotter and writer Ted Neill has worked on five continents as an educator, health professional, and journalist. His writing has appeared in The Washington Post, Recovery Today, and he has published a number of novels exploring issues related to science, religion, class, and social justice. He is the 2013 winner of the Martin Luther King Jr. Torch of Peace Award. His 2017 novel, The Selah Branch, attempts to confront issues of racism and the divided political environment of the US today and the 1950s. His debut novel, City on a Hill, examines the fault lines of religious conflict in the Middle East. His 2019 novel, Reaper Moon, takes place against the backdrop of a global virus pandemic and explores how the aftermath unfolds along familiar social divides of race and politics. His young adult series, Snog Team Six, is a romp through global mythology, science fiction, video games, the Old West and Southeast Asia. His high-fantasy series, Elk Riders, has won numerous awards including two Kirkus starred reviews. His upcoming series, The Post Apocalyptic Space Shakespeare, will provide an updated and exciting entrée to seventeen of the bard’s plays for old and new readers alike.

He is also an accomplished author of nonfiction. He is the author of two memoirs about his time working at a home for orphans with HIV/AIDS in Nairobi, Kenya.

Neill’s passion project is his illustrated middle grade series Mystery Force. Mystery Force is a collaboration with friends in the disability community to create a series where children with disabilities are the protagonists and heroes. Mystery Force came about when Neill’s friend who uses a motorized wheelchair and has a canine companion approached him and said, “There needs to me more stories where kids with disabilities can see themselves as heroic.” So, they made one.

Connect with Ted

Website Check out Ted's books on his website under the "books" tab!

Follow Ted on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram @therealauthortedneill

TikTok

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This RE-RELEASE episode is a blast from the past! It was episode 4.. so definatley sounds different but so fun to listen to again! And I'm so excited about my amazing mom as my FIRST guest! 

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Many people always want to know my Different Ability Story, which is great, I appreciate it. However, I believe the loved ones around you have a story that should be heard as well.

In this episode I pulled the audio from a video interview I did with my Mom a few months ago on my Youtube Show, Motivation Moment. (link for that video is below if you'd like to see it)

I know for a fact my Mom's side to this story is a very important story. It's My Mom's story, it's my Mom's viewpoint and her struggle as well.  I know for sure her story will connect with a lot of parents that are going through or have gone through a struggle with their own kids.

You're not alone, and that's why I believe my Mom's story is just as important as mine! We are all in this together, you don't have to walk through this alone!

Youtube Show, Motivation Moment - Bonus Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R_ylMlWSdQ&t=3s

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Website:
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Instagram:
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https://www.instagram.com/differentabilitypodcast/ 

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It was a breath of fresh air talking with Tess on this episode! She shares her journey with growing up with Hong Kong, attending a boarding school in London along with her wellness health journey. She is a wealth of knowledge and it's so great learning a bit of what she teaches! This is not your normal "fad diet" talk, nope! She beleives our health is way more than a diet! Listen in and share with others.

Tess's Bio

Tess Cheng is a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience, dedicated to helping individuals achieve lasting success through sustainable wellness practices. Having navigated her own journey with hypoglycemia and a family history of diabetes, Tess advocates for holistic lifestyle changes that foster both personal and professional growth. With a Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from NYU, she integrates practical strategies focused on mindset, self-care, disease prevention, and longevity. Tess believes that prioritizing wellness not only enhances daily health but also paves the way for long-term vitality and success in all areas of life.

Connect with Tess

Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Facebook

Her Free Wellness Tracker - get it HERE!

I talk at the end of the episode about soaking my feet in magnesium. Below is the link for you to get it from Amazon and try it yourself! It's a huge game changer!

Magnesium Link HERE

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This is a Re-Release Episode with my friend Dustin. I definately need to have him back on! 

Dustin was diagnosed with CP, Cerebral Palsy, at the age of one and he shares some of his story on today's episode. "People are people no matter what ability" is one of the many amazing things Dustin said on today's podcast episode.

Listen in, Dustin's story is amazing!

Check out the blog post to read more about Dustin here!

Connect with Dustin!
Instagram

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Places you can reach me at:
Website:
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Instagram:
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https://www.instagram.com/differentabilitypodcast/ 

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Sometimes I just have these crazy ideas I have to run with... let's be real, I have crazy ideas daily, but this one is extra speical! I decided to write a bonus chapter to the book that will NOT be published in the book. Listen in and find out why.

If you'd like to join the email list for when the book is launched and the bonus chapter is ready to send out, please join HERE. It's free and once the book it's published, you will recieve the email with the bonus chapter! 

If you sign up to get the bonus chapter after the book is launched, it will be sent to you right away! 

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Places you can reach me at:
Website:
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Instagram:
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https://www.instagram.com/differentabilitypodcast/ 

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Brittany is back! I'm so happy to have her back on the podast, she's such a delight. In this episode we talk so much more about motivation in all aspects of life! Be sure to listen in and share with others!

Listen to Brittany's First Episode HERE! It's episode 209. 

Brittany's Bio

Brittany has spoken for the Growth Credo team, Ladies of All Nations South Africa, Life Streams International Church, Rock Mining Components, and the Insure Group. She has been interviewed on local South African shows like The Red Corner Show and Tina Talks, and for the marketing company Creative Space. Brittany has also been interviewed on radio stations Radio Pulpit and CCFM. She was the August 2024 cover woman for Joy Magazine and Karoo Sisters online magazine. She has appeared on The Different Way of Seeing podcast and The Qotivated podcast and has been featured in PPMC South Africa. She has also spoken for the Subrena Love Foundation.

Connect with Brittany

LinkedIn

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Brittany mentioned in the episode one of her favorite speakers, Nick V, and his documentary. I believe as of right now you can find it on AppleTV+, Hulu or on his YouTube Channel. Here's his YouTube Link.

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Website:
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In this episode, I sit down with a passionate homeschool mom who carved her own path, both in how she educated her children and how she's pursuing her dream of publishing a book. Over 15 years after writing her manuscript, she's finally bringing her words to life! We talk about her homeschooling journey with her kids, how her kids all learn differently, and why it's never too late to chase your dreams. If you even put a dream on the shelf, this one's for you!

Mindy's Bio

Melinda Meyer is a mom of five thriving adult children with families of their own, a homeschool veteran of 26 years, and a trusted voice for faith-filled mothers. As a speaker author, and ministry leader, she equips moms to partner with God and raise children who know His voice and follow His ways.

Connect with Mindy

Facebook Group - Kingdon Joy At Home: Faith & Family Community

Instagram

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Places you can reach me at:
Website:
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Instagram:
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https://www.instagram.com/differentabilitypodcast/ 

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In this episode Jill shares so much about her amazing journey! I learn she's dyslexic, had no idea, and she talks about her jouney of being a mom and learning her child is autistic. We also dive into time management and no it's not the boring time managament! She breaks it down and makes it fun to talk about! Listen in and share with everyone. Also check the links below - she shares a lot of resources for you to have for free! 

Jill's Bio

Jill Wright is an author, podcaster, and speaker who helps busy professionals, parents, and students find balance, reduce burnout, and create the lives they desire through holistic time management. As a sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator, Jill shares her expertise through engaging talks and workshops. Her work empowers individuals to integrate self-care, create systems for personal and professional success, and reclaim their energy for a more intentional life.

Jill is also the author of Happy Healthy Wealthy and Wise, a page-a-day style inspirational guidebook, and the creator of the Time Magic Planner, a revolutionary tool for holistic weekly planning that blends productivity with rest, focusing on creating a life that aligns with your values and vision. Through her podcast “Grow Like a Mother”, Jill inspires listeners to thrive in both their personal and professional lives by embracing balance and intentional living.

Connect with Jill

Website

Instagram - Grow Like A Mother

Instagram - Life Time Management 

Facebook

LinkedIn

Resources

Transform Your Time Quiz

Grab her Book Here!

Grab her Planner Here!

Podcast - Grow Like a Mother

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Places you can reach me at:
Website:
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https://kateyfortun.com/podcast

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