Different, Not Less - Real People, Real Ability Podcast

In this episode of *Different, Not Less: Real People, Real Ability*, hosts James Carey and Jacob Carroll are joined by Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer for an open and meaningful conversation about community, inclusion, representation and creating opportunities for everyone to feel heard and valued.Mayor Homer shares his perspective on the role local leadership can play in building a more connected and inclusive Shellharbour community, while James and Jacob bring the lived experience, honesty and humour that sit at the heart of the podcast.Together, they explore why listening to people with disability matters, how stronger communities are built through understanding and respect, and why every person deserves the opportunity to contribute, succeed and be recognised for their abilities.*Different, Not Less* is about real conversations with real people—challenging assumptions, celebrating achievement and proving that disability does not define potential.Host: James CareyCo Host and Producer: Shane BitschkatProduction Company: Iron Monarch Studios

Different, Not Less – Episode 3: Jacob CarrollIn this inspiring and entertaining episode of Different, Not Less, James sits down with his long-time mate Jacob Carroll for a conversation about friendship, disability, independence, and everything in between.From their school days as two of the first students with disabilities to serve on their school's leadership committee, to navigating life as young adults, James and Jacob reflect on the challenges, achievements, and funny moments that have shaped their journey.Jacob shares his experiences living with cerebral palsy, what people often misunderstand about disability, and how he has developed a strong sense of independence. He opens up about managing his own supports, travelling away from home, building confidence through sport, and giving back to the community through volunteering.The conversation also explores family life, friendships, basketball, relationship advice, and the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, stories, and good-natured banter between two mates who have known each other for years.Most importantly, Jacob offers valuable insights for young people with disabilities who want to become more independent, while reminding us all that disability does not define what a person can achieve.A heartfelt, honest, and uplifting conversation that proves being different is not a limitation—it's a strength.Different, Not Less. Real people. Real stories. Real ability.#DifferentNotLess #PodcastAustralia #DisabilityAwareness #CerebralPalsy #InclusionMatters #DisabilityAdvocate #NDIS #IndependentLiving #FriendshipGoals #RealPeopleRealStories #RealAbility #DisabilityPride #AccessibleAustralia #YoungAdults #Leadership #CommunityInclusion #AdaptiveSports #BasketballCommunity #VolunteeringMatters #InspiringStories #DisabilityInclusion #BreakingBarriers #AbilityNotDisability #LifeWithoutLimits #PodcastLife #AustralianPodcast #SupportCoordination #IndependentLivingSkills #DifferentNotLessPodcast #JamesCareyHost: James CareyCo Host and Producer: Shane BitschkatProduction Company: Iron Monarch Studios

Different, Not Less. Real People, Real Ability PodcastSeason 1 | Episode 2In this episode, host James Carey sits down with Kellie Marsh, Deputy Mayor of Shellharbour City Council and dedicated disability carer, for an honest and insightful conversation about community, advocacy, inclusion, and the realities of caring for others.Kellie shares her experiences balancing public service with her role as a carer, discussing the challenges, rewards, and lessons learned along the way. Together, James and Kellie explore the importance of creating inclusive communities, supporting people with disabilities, and ensuring every voice is heard.This episode offers valuable perspectives for carers, families, community leaders, and anyone interested in building a more understanding and accessible society.🎙️ Guest: Kellie Marsh – Deputy Mayor, Shellharbour City Council & Disability Carer🎙️ Host: James Carey🎙️ Co Host: Shane Bitschkat🎥 Produced by: Iron Monarch StudiosAbout the PodcastDifferent, Not Less. Real People, Real Ability celebrates the achievements, experiences, and stories of people living with disability, along with the families, carers, advocates, and professionals who support them. Through authentic conversations, we aim to educate, inspire, and promote greater understanding throughout our communities.👍 Like, Comment & Subscribe to support the podcast.#DifferentNotLess #JamesCarey #KellieMarsh #Shellharbour #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityAdvocacy #Carers #Inclusion #Accessibility #CommunityLeadership #ShellharbourCouncil #RealPeopleRealAbility #PodcastAustraliaHost: James CareyCo Host and Producer: Shane BitschkatProduction Company: Iron Monarch Studios

In this heartfelt and insightful episode of Different, not less. Real People, real ability Podcast, host James Carey sits down with special guest Alex, a dedicated carer whose story goes far beyond the title of the job.Alex opens up about how he entered the caring profession, the emotional highs and challenges that come with supporting people living with disabilities, and the powerful life lessons he has learned through his journey with James. Together, they explore the realities carers and families face every day from navigating support systems and public misconceptions to celebrating the small victories that mean everything.This episode is honest, emotional, inspiring, and filled with real conversations that parents, carers, support workers, and people living with disabilities will deeply connect with. It’s a conversation about dignity, inclusion, resilience, humour, and the importance of seeing the person before the disability.Whether you’re a parent beginning your journey, a carer looking for understanding, or someone wanting greater insight into the disability community, this episode delivers authentic perspectives and powerful reminders that different does not mean less.Real People. Real Stories. Real Ability.Host: James CareyCo Host and Producer: Shane BitschkatProduction Company: Iron Monarch Studios