Using Stories to Change How We See Disability – Sean Adelman episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 7, 2026 · 33 MIN

Using Stories to Change How We See Disability – Sean Adelman

from Empowered Conversations · host Precious Dee

Sean Adelman is an orthopedic surgeon, Air Force veteran, and father whose daughter has Down syndrome. He shares the moment of her diagnosis, what he would tell a new parent, and what was missing from his medical education.In this episode of Empowered Conversations, we talk about:‎- The moment Sean's daughter was diagnosed – and what went through his mind‎- What he would tell a parent of a child with a new diagnosis‎- What was missing from his medical education and life experiences‎- How his perception of success has changed‎- What Raise Expectations is – and why that name‎- How low expectations become a self-fulfilling prophecy‎- How his daughter Devon lives independently, is employed, and coaches‎- The difference between inclusion and acceptance‎- How schools and workplaces can move from token inclusion to true belonging‎- Why representation matters in books, media, and entertainment‎- How his other children have been shaped by having a sister with Down syndrome‎- How being a trauma surgeon affects his perspective on disability‎- One small thing you can do today to raise your expectations‎‎If you want to understand inclusion, acceptance, and the power of expectations – this conversation is for you.‎Our expectations shape not only our own perspective, but the lives of those around us. When we raise expectations, we open doors. When we share stories, we change minds. And when we truly accept, we create belonging.‎‎Connect with Sean Adelman‎Website: raiseexpectations.comFollow and rate the show.

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 7, 2026

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Using Stories to Change How We See Disability – Sean Adelman

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