More Than a Smile – Mary’s Journey Through Bullying, Advocacy, and Belonging

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to find your voice when the world labels you before you speak?In this deeply moving episode of the Ride The Wave Podcast, Jeff Fisher sits down with Mary, an outspoken advocate who was born with a cleft lip. From bullying and behavioral labels in the classroom to a pivotal courtroom moment involving her father, Mary’s story is one of courage, growth, and unshakable purpose.But this is more than a personal story — it’s a movement.Mary introduces us to the often-overlooked cleft lip community, revealing a network of support, advocacy, and healing that most don’t even know exists. With guidance from her mentor Dr. Bowe (founder of BeTheChangeNJ.com), Mary has become a shining example of resilience and leadership — and yes, Dr. Bowe also officiated her wedding!You’ll walk away from this episode with:A deeper understanding of cleft lip awarenessA new perspective on how schools respond to behavior and differenceInsight into how mentorship can change the trajectory of a lifeRenewed belief that every person has a story worth listening to🌊 At Ride The Wave Foundation, we believe "The Path is to the Person." This episode lives that mission out loud.👉 CALL TO ACTION:Follow the show on Spotify, Apple, or your favorite podcast appLeave a review if Mary’s story moved you — your words amplify the missionVisit www.RideTheWave.org to get involved or support our mentorship workShare this episode with someone who needs to hear it today—🎙️ Hosted by Jeff Fisher🚀 Produced by Ride The Wave Foundation🌐 More stories and mission updates at www.RideTheWave.org—Tags/Keywords (for SEO):#CleftLipAwareness #RideTheWavePodcast #MarysStory #DisabilityAdvocacy #BullyingRecovery #MentorshipMatters #BeTheChangeNJ #Inclusion #EducationReform #MentalHealth #WaveMaker #PodcastForChange #SpotifyPodcasts #BuzzsproutSupport the showThank you for riding the wave with us! If this conversation resonated, please consider leaving a review and sharing it with your community. Your support helps us spread messages of unity.© 2025 Ride the Wave Podcast. All Rights Reserved.