5. The Shape of Self-Acceptance with Michelle Steiner

In this episode, Celeste sits down with Michelle Steiner—writer, advocate, para educator, and photographer—to explore what it means to build a meaningful life while living with a learning disability. Michelle shares how early doubts about her potential shaped her, how she moved from grief to acceptance, and why she now sees her disability as a source of unique insight and connection. From college struggles and career choices to book projects and garden metaphors, this conversation is a gentle, honest look at resilience, self-definition, and allowing our lives to "bloom" in their own time.     Brief Episode Summary Michelle reflects on her journey with dyscalculia and other learning disabilities, the discouraging messages she received growing up, and the long process of redefining success on her own terms. She talks about making Dean's List, finding fulfilling work in schools, becoming a published author, and dreaming up new books that educate and encourage others. Along the way, she reframes disability from a limitation into a different way of moving through the world—one that has opened unexpected beauty, empathy, and purpose.     5 Key Takeaways [0:02:48] – Michelle balances work, advocacy, writing, and book clubs, building a life full of creativity and connection. [0:06:01] – Her book ideas—Chasing Butterflies and a children's book on dyscalculia—use storytelling to educate and empower others with learning disabilities. [0:09:09] – Despite discouraging messages about college, career, and relationships, Michelle chose to pursue her own path and eventually proved those doubts wrong. [0:11:10] – Making Dean's List, graduating, marrying, and working in education reshaped her sense of what happiness and success can look like. [0:19:32] – Michelle defines resilience and success as doing her personal best, focusing on what she can control, and continuing to "bloom" despite challenges.     Featured Quote "Sometimes it's almost like grieving that person who didn't have a disability and didn't have to struggle—but once we process those emotions and accept them, then we come to acceptance, and it's a lot easier." — Michelle Steiner  Resources:   Michelle's Website: michellesmission.com