Special Olympics Missouri is about so much more than competition.

Meg Ward and Special Olympics athlete Namande share what the Special Olympics experience looks like from both the program and athlete perspectives. They talk about sports, competition, teammates, and the experiences that make Special Olympics Missouri such an important part of athletes’ lives.

Learn more about Special Olympics Missouri and find out how you can get involved:

somo.org

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👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

What if accessibility wasn't something added at the end of a project, but something that shaped the design from the very beginning?

Aaron McIntosh returns to The Whole Podcast to share how his work with NorthStar has continued to evolve since his previous conversations with us. He discusses his work in multisensory design, including projects involving tactile wayfinding, sound, touch and other ways of experiencing a space beyond sight.

Aaron also talks about the importance of collaboration and designing with people rather than simply designing for them.

From his work on the Kansas City Art Institute's wayfinding system to a proposed multisensory celebration of Kansas City's jazz history, his projects demonstrate how accessibility can be creative, engaging and beneficial to everyone.

The conversation also explores why accessibility shouldn't become just another box to check. Aaron shares why keeping the passion and human connection behind accessible design is just as important as meeting established standards, and why people with disabilities need to have a greater voice in the spaces and communities being designed around them.

Learn more about Aaron and NorthStar and explore his work in accessible and multisensory design.

northstarinitiative.net

Watch more conversations on The Whole Podcast and subscribe for more stories about disability, accessibility, advocacy and independent living.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.For more: https://thewholeperson.org

What if we've been thinking about disability all wrong?Author and disability advocate Rebekah Taussig explores why needing support is part of being human, how universal design creates better communities for everyone, and why accessibility should never be treated as an afterthought.

Through personal stories and thoughtful conversations about friendship, advocacy, and belonging, she challenges the idea that people with disabilities are a burden and instead shifts the focus to creating a world that works for everyone. Many of the ideas in this conversation are explored in Rebekah's acclaimed book, Sitting Pretty.

If this discussion resonates with you, it's a must-read for anyone wanting a deeper understanding of disability, accessibility, and what true inclusion looks like.

Check out her book and get reading with this link: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/sitting-pretty-rebekah-taussig?variant=32914662981666

Watch more conversations from The Whole Podcast and subscribe for stories that challenge perspectives, promote accessibility, and celebrate independent living.

Learn more about The Whole Person: https://thewholeperson.org

#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Disability advocate and author Rebekah Taussig shares reflections on disability, visibility, and the stories we tell about our bodies. Drawing from her book Sitting Pretty, the conversation explores how everyday experiences reveal deeper truths about access, belonging, and identity.

The discussion touches on the pressure to appear resilient, the emotional labor of advocacy, and what meaningful allyship looks like beyond good intentions. Rebekah offers insight into how listening, design, and language can shape more inclusive communities.

Learn more about Rebekah’s work and explore her writing: rebekahtaussig.com

Read Sitting Pretty and explore her book:https://a.co/d/0eDpqy4Z#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

After breaking his neck in a skateboarding accident, Garrett Gonzales sustained a traumatic brain injury that caused him to lose nearly all memory of who he was before age 17. What followed was not just recovery, but a complete rebuilding of identity.

Garrett opens up about living with a TBI, relearning himself through feeling instead of memory, and how skateboarding became a way to remember who he is. He shares why watching his own videos helped reconnect pieces of his life and how creativity continues to play a role in healing.

You can find Garrett’s work and storytelling on his YouTube channel and on Instagram.

Instagram: instagram.com/huskmanee

YouTube: youtube.com/@huskmane

This conversation is part of The Whole Person’s ongoing commitment to supporting people with brain injuries. If you or someone you know is living with a brain injury, The Whole Person offers a Brain Injury Support Group that provides connection, understanding, and peer support.

Brain Injury Support Group: https://thewholeperson.org/peer-support/brain-injury-peer-support/

This is a powerful story about identity, resilience, and finding yourself again when everything you knew disappears.

#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility

...

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...

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Listen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week!

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...

👉 About The Whole Person

Based in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

What happens to intimacy when disability enters a relationship, and no one talks about it? Brandon and Lindsey from Beyond This are helping couples navigate the emotional and physical realities that traditional rehab often overlooks. From feeling like a burden to redefining romance, this conversation offers real insight, real hope, and real next steps for couples at any stage.If this conversation resonates with you or someone you love, learn more about their work, upcoming workshops, and resources by visiting beyondthis.org.Don't forget to subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs to hear it, and join us in continuing conversations that truly matter.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

Access to technology can be life changing when the right tools are in place. David Baker from Missouri Assistive Technology shares how assistive technology supports independence, digital access, and opportunity for people with disabilities across Missouri. The conversation covers device loan and reuse programs, common barriers to accessibility, and how individuals and families can connect with resources that make technology more inclusive.If you want to find out more about assistive technology services, programs, and resources available statewide, visitMissouri Assistive Technology#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility ...🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

What if an ice cream shop could change lives one scoop at a time?The Whole Podcast welcomes Kris Stevens, General Manager of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream, along with one of the shop’s incredible Heroes, Tommy.Kris shares what truly sets Howdy Homemade apart, what a successful day looks like beyond the register, and the meaningful lessons she has learned working alongside Heroes. Tommy gives a behind the scenes look at his role at the shop, his favorite part of connecting with customers, and what being a Hero means to him.This conversation is full of joy, purpose, and reminders that inclusion builds stronger communities. And yes! Favorite ice cream flavors make an appearance too.#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility 🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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For more: https://thewholeperson.org

The transition from high school to college can be overwhelming, especially for autistic and neurodivergent students and their families. Matt Gunter shares insights from his research, lived experience, and his work supporting families through one of the highest stakes transitions they will face.

The conversation focuses on why college struggles are often less about academics and more about executive functioning, mental health, and self-advocacy, and why a student’s willingness to seek and accept help can make all the difference. Matt also explains the important shift parents must make from being a manager to a consultant and how allowing productive struggle can lead to long-term success.This is a must-listen for parents, educators, and anyone supporting neurodivergent young adults as they navigate independence, identity, and life after high school.

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Save 25% when you use code WHOLEPODCAST at checkout.

Shop now at college-ready.com

FOR EDUCATORS AND PROFESSIONALS:

Bulk paperback orders are available through college-ready.com with discounted pricing options for schools, therapists, and organizations.

Both of Matt Gunter's books are also available for purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0GMK118MK/allbooks

Check out more of Matt's work

https://www.youtube.com/@InclusiveAcademia

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-gunter-1946b96?trk=people-guest_people_search-card

https//www.facebook.com/groups/598191639524338https://www.instagram.com/inclusive.academia/#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility 🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org

James McGinnis is a traumatic brain injury survivor whose life changed in an instant and rebuilt itself over time. What began with uncertainty and difficult medical conversations slowly turned into a journey shaped by persistence, support, and a renewed sense of purpose.

James shares how recovery became less about returning to who he was before and more about discovering who he could become. From relearning movement to setting ambitious goals, his story highlights the importance of celebrating progress, leaning on community, and finding joy along the way. He also talks about why sharing his journey through James 9 Recovery matters to him and how connection has become a key part of healing.

This conversation centers on hope, growth, and the momentum that can come from choosing to keep moving forward. Even when the path looks different than expected.

To learn more about James’ recovery and involvement in the community, check out his website: https://www.james9recovery.com/#kansascity #disabilitypodcast #accessibility 🌎 Stay Connected with The Whole PersonBe the first to hear about events, stories, and opportunities to get involved! Join our conversation on our social media accounts about disability rights inclusion, and advocacy.

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🎙️ Subscribe to our PodcastListen to powerful conversations about accessibility and inclusion from people in the Kansas City metro. Get to know their stories every week! https://www.youtube.com/@TheWholePerson/podcasts

👉 About The Whole PersonBased in Kansas City, The Whole Person connects people with disabilities to the resources they need by supporting independent choice and advocating for positive change in the community. We envision a fully accessible community where opportunities and choices are not limited by disability.

For more: https://thewholeperson.org