This Ability Podcast

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, Mary sits down with Acadiana mother, author, and advocate Emily Wolf to talk about her journey raising her son Seth, who lives with autism and congenital muscular myopathy (RYR1). Emily shares what daily life looks like for their family, the challenges and emotional “dark moments” that many special needs parents face, and the powerful joy that can come from embracing a child’s individuality. Through honesty and reflection, Emily discusses the lessons Seth has taught her about confidence, authenticity, and seeing differences as strengths rather than limitations. 

Emily also shares the story behind the children’s book she co-created with Seth, A Different Kind of Sea Star, a whimsical underwater tale designed to help children understand that being different is something to celebrate. She reflects on the role faith plays in her parenting, her work with the JoyHeart Collection, and her mission to encourage and uplift other families in the special needs community. This conversation is filled with encouragement, reminding listeners that every child—and every family—has a unique story worth embracing.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, our host Mary Baudoin sits down with Annie Watkins, Site Manager of GiGi’s Playhouse New Orleans, to talk about building a community where individuals with Down syndrome and their families are celebrated, supported, and empowered. From its founding mission to “change the way the world views Down syndrome” to its 62 locations across the U.S. and Mexico, GiGi’s Playhouse delivers free, purposeful programs for participants of all ages — from prenatal support and early childhood classes to teen leadership, adult independence programs, one-on-one tutoring, and speech therapy.

Annie shares powerful stories of “best-of-all moments,” explains how GiGi’s removes financial barriers so no family is excluded, and discusses the importance of positive messaging at the time of diagnosis. The conversation also highlights Down Syndrome Awareness Month, World Down Syndrome Day (3/21), volunteer opportunities, the 321 Champion monthly giving program, and hopes for future Louisiana locations. Whether you are a parent, advocate, volunteer, or community supporter, this episode is a reminder that awareness begins with conversation — and acceptance grows through community.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of This Ability Podcast, Sierra Stevens shares her journey as a nurse, a mother of two children with diagnoses, and a woman living with sickle cell disease. Sierra opens up about raising her autistic, non-speaking son Micah and her daughter with ADD, navigating early diagnoses, embracing observation as a parenting tool, and learning to celebrate her children for exactly who they are. She speaks candidly about advocacy in schools, the importance of organizations like Families Helping Families, and how connecting with other parents transformed her sense of isolation into empowerment.

Sierra also discusses her own health journey with sickle cell disease, including a recent battle with sickle cell retinopathy and retinal detachment surgeries. With honesty and strength, she reflects on balancing motherhood, marriage, nursing, and board leadership while prioritizing her health and her family’s safety. From elopement prevention and practical safety tools to the healing power of exercise, music, faith, and community, this episode is a reminder that resilience is built one intentional step at a time—and that no parent should walk this path alone.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, Mary sits down with Jo Faulk, a disabled student leader, advocate, and future educator whose lived experience has shaped her understanding of disability, resilience, and voice. Jo reflects on growing up with disability, the influence of her mother’s disability on her own journey, and why advocacy often becomes an “inherent skill” for disabled people. From navigating early self-advocacy to managing the emotional labor that comes with speaking up, Jo offers an honest look at what it means to advocate for yourself while also standing alongside a broader disability community. 

The conversation also dives into education, leadership, and systemic change. As a history student pursuing teaching certification and the president of her college’s disabled student organization, Jo shares her perspective on where the education system continues to fail disabled students—and how it can be reimagined with disabled voices at the center. She discusses campus advocacy, intersectionality across disability, gender, religion, and society, and what she hopes the disability rights movement prioritizes in the coming decade. This episode is a powerful reminder that disabled students are not just navigating systems—they are actively shaping the future of them.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, host Mary Baudoin sits down with Latasha Holt, a mother, educator, and advocate in Acadiana, to share her family’s journey navigating an ultra-rare medical diagnosis. Latasha opens up about her daughter, Blakelee, who is living with isolated (central) adrenal insufficiency—an exceptionally rare condition affecting approximately one in one million individuals—alongside epilepsy. Together, they break down what this diagnosis means medically, how it differs from more commonly known adrenal disorders, and the challenges of receiving answers when no clear triggering event is present.

Latasha also offers an honest look into daily life managing complex medical needs, from medication routines and emergency preparedness to the emotional and psychological realities faced by both parent and child. She reflects on Blakelee’s perspective, the importance of building strong support systems, and the role of advocacy in raising awareness for rare diseases. This conversation highlights resilience, preparedness, and hope—while providing encouragement and practical insight for families navigating similar journeys and for listeners seeking to better understand the lived experience behind rare medical conditions.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this episode of This Ability Podcast, host Mary Baudoin sits down with Elizabeth Duplechain and Amanda Anderson for a heartfelt conversation about Elijah and the journey that surrounds him. Elizabeth, Elijah’s mother, shares what it means to raise a young man diagnosed with Down syndrome, autism, ADD, and ADHD, while navigating advocacy, education, and daily life. Amanda adds her perspective as someone who has walked alongside Elijah and his family, highlighting the importance of support, belief, and community. 

Although Elijah speaks very little during the interview, his story, presence, and impact are powerfully felt throughout the episode. This conversation serves as an important reminder that ability looks different for everyone—and that unwavering support can make all the difference.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this extended episode of This Ability Podcast, we sit down with Justina Plowden, Miss Wheelchair Louisiana and founder of We Matter, a support and advocacy group for individuals with disabilities across the Acadiana region. Justina shares her journey as a powerful advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and representation. From her experience competing in the Miss Wheelchair America pageant to leading regional conversations around disability rights, Justina speaks candidly about the challenges she’s faced, the community she’s built, and her mission to uplift others through visibility and action.

As Miss Wheelchair Louisiana and founder of We Matter, Justina is a true SCI warrior whose work embodies strength, advocacy, and inclusion. In honor of Spinal Cord Injury Awareness, this episode is especially meaningful. 

She shares her powerful journey as an advocate for accessibility, representation, and community empowerment across Acadiana and beyond. This episode also includes inspiring excerpts from two other guests:

Sam Primeaux — who shares how his life was transformed after a motorcycle accident at 17 and how he continues to push forward with grit, faith, and determination.

Katie Haynes — who made history as the first person to compete in the Miss United States Agriculture pageant in a wheelchair, and who spreads hope through her nonprofit

Together, these stories highlight resilience, leadership, and the power of representation in the disability community.

Through We Matter, Justina works to unite individuals across all parishes in Louisiana, focusing on advocacy, peer support, education, and outreach. In this conversation, she reflects on the importance of community empowerment, her commitment to changing perceptions, and how her lived experience fuels her work. Whether you're a caregiver, advocate, or part of the disability community, Justina’s voice is a meaningful reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Extended Episode: Empowerment in Action – Donielle Watkins & Coach Damon Vincent

In this extended edition of This Ability Podcast, we revisit our conversation with Donielle Watkins, Executive Director of the DREAMS Foundation of Acadiana, and expand the story by weaving in insights from Coach Damon Vincent, founder of Train Unique.

Donielle shares the heartfelt journey behind DREAMS—an organization dedicated to creating inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities through sports, art, theater, galas, summer camps, and more. She also highlights their one-of-a-kind meat pie manufacturing food truck, which not only serves delicious food but also employs individuals with disabilities in meaningful ways. Her deep faith and unwavering commitment to community are at the heart of this powerful conversation.

But the story doesn’t stop there.

Because many DREAMS participants also train with Coach Damon at Train Unique, we’ve enhanced this episode with a special excerpt from his interview. Coach Damon talks about his inclusive approach to fitness, the athletes he trains, and the role that confidence, respect, and tailored support play in helping people reach their full potential—on and off the gym floor.

Together, Donielle and Damon offer a shared vision of what’s possible when we invest in ability, inclusion, and community.

Tune in for an inspiring, two-voice conversation filled with passion, purpose, and real impact across Acadiana.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this extended episode, we discuss the topic of autism with Season One guest Paul Ganucheau and interview the 2024 Acadiana Teen Spirit Award Winners who are making a difference in the community.

🏆 Aubrey David – 9th-grade student at Teurlings Catholic High School
🏆 Chloe Songne – 9th-grade student at New Iberia Senior High School

Aubrey David is an inspiring teenager with a heart for service and a drive to make a meaningful impact in her community. Through her initiative, Aubrey’s Amazing Grace, she has raised thousands of dollars to support families facing hardships, from cancer patients to those in need of housing assistance. Motivated by the example of her former teacher and her own family’s experience with fundraising, Aubrey has turned her compassion into action, organizing bake sales and fundraisers that not only provide financial relief but also bring hope to those in need. Beyond her philanthropic efforts, she is an active member of multiple school organizations and has ambitious goals for the future, aiming to become a chiropractor. Her dedication, empathy, and relentless pursuit of helping others demonstrate wisdom and kindness beyond her years, making her a role model for her peers and a young leader with a bright future ahead.

Chloe Songne is an inspirational teenager whose compassion, dedication, and vision for inclusivity set her apart as a true changemaker. As the oldest sibling to six brothers, including two with autism, she is deeply committed to advocating for individuals with special needs. Her work with the Autism Society of Acadiana, her efforts to improve accessibility at festivals, and her involvement in the Very Special Pageant highlight her drive to create a more inclusive world. Beyond her advocacy, Chloe’s leadership as Miss Teen Scott Boudin Festival Queen and her involvement in 4H and Beta Club demonstrate her well-rounded ambition and determination to make a difference. With a heart for service and a passion for education, Chloe’s future is undeniably bright, and she will continue to leave a lasting impact on her community and beyond.

We provide some background information about Aubrey's Amazing Grace, the Scott Boudin Festival as well as current statistics in the United States on the topic of autism.

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

In this extended interview, our host Mary Baudoin provides listeners with some background information about the ULL LIFE Program and a little background about our guest Mary Frances Avera.

In this inspiring interview, Mary Frances Avera opens up about her rare ZMIZ1 diagnosis, the profound role faith plays in her life, her deep love for animals, and her journey to graduating from the ULL LIFE (Learning Is for Everyone) Program. 

At end of the episode, our host wraps up the highlights of the conversation and announces the featured guests for next week's episode. 

Thanks for listening to This Ability Podcast. If you are enjoying our podcast, be sure to like us on Facebook at This Ability Podcast page and subscribe to our YouTube channel.