LD Lee

In this episode of the LD Lee Podcast, Lee shares his personal journey of growing up with a learning disability, facing challenges, and discovering that learning differently does not mean you are any less intelligent or capable. Through honest conversation and encouragement, Lee reminds listeners that their struggles do not define their future—and that sometimes the qualities that make us different become our greatest strengths.

What advice would Joe give his freshman self—the young man sitting in an LD class? In this powerful clip, Joe looks back and shares the encouragement he wishes he had heard then.

“Welcome back to the LD Lee Podcast. Today’s episode is a pretty special one for me, because we’re coming to you from the wrestling room at Independence High School—just a few steps away from the classrooms where my guest and I grew up together.Joe Malugian and I were classmates, and Joe’s one of those guys you don’t forget. He’s big, strong and athletic, with an even bigger smile and an even bigger heart. He’s kind, genuine, fiercely loyal, and just one of those people you’re glad to know.But just like me, school wasn’t always easy for Joe. Today we’re going to talk about learning differently, growing up together, the struggles nobody always saw—and how those experiences helped shape the men we became.So from the wrestling room, welcome my old classmate and my friend, Joe Malugian, to the LD Lee Podcast.”

The conversation explores the themes of first impressions and misconceptions, highlighting the impact of initial perceptions and the subsequent realization of their inaccuracy.TakeawaysFirst ImpressionsMisconceptions

LD Lee shares his personal journey of living with a learning disability, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and the impact of supportive individuals. He emphasizes the power of perseverance and the importance of understanding and empathy for those with learning disabilities.

😂 Mr. Hallsworth had the Full Metal Jacket approach: “Act like a jerk, and I’ll treat you like a jerk!”JoJo and I are taking it back to freshman yearsharing the teachers, tough moments, and funny stories that helped shape us. You won’t want to miss this episode of the LD Lee Podcast! Full episode comes out Wed!🎙️ Real stories. Real laughs. Real people who simply learn differently.#LDLeePodcast #LearningDisabilities #JoJo #SchoolMemories #LearnDifferent

Our next guest is the kind of guy you don’t easily forget. Joe Malugian is big, strong, athletic—and he has a smile and a heart that are even bigger.Joe’s hard work and determination gave him the opportunity to play NCAA college football. But his accomplishments didn’t stop on the football field. He also tackled the demanding CDL exams, earning the endorsements needed to haul bulk trailers and hazardous materials—something that takes intelligence, discipline, and serious attention to detail.More importantly, Joe is a loyal friend and devoted family man who genuinely cares about the people around him.I’m excited for you to meet the man many of us know as JoJo. He has a powerful story, a great personality, and plenty of lessons to share.Joe Malugian is coming soon to the LD Lee Podcast—and trust me, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!

Episode 2 of the LD Lee Podcast features Michael Hughes Tex a husband, father, retired combat veteran, successful barber, and owner of two barbershops. After serving 22 years in the Marine Corps and Army, Michael received the National Army Humanitarian of the Year Award for donating a kidney to a fellow soldier. Join us for an inspiring conversation about service, sacrifice, family, and building a new life after the military.

I’m really excited about this one.22 years of military service. Multiple combat deployments. A kidney donated to a fellow soldier. Successful business owner. Husband. Father. And a lifelong journey with a learning disability.Meet Michael Hughes.Here’s a little sneak peek at his upcoming conversation on the LD Lee Podcast.His story is one you’re going to want to hear. 🎙️Coming soon.

COMING UP ON LD LEE…What does a learning disability have to do with becoming a Marine, a soldier, a decorated humanitarian, a kidney donor, and a successful business owner?Meet Michael Hughes.Michael served our country for 22 years, including multiple combat deployments. He was named the Army’s National Humanitarian of the Year after donating a kidney to a fellow soldier.Today, he’s a husband, father, and owner of two barbershops, where he continues giving back to his community.But behind all those accomplishments is another story—a lifelong journey with a learning disability.How did he overcome it? Did it actually help shape the man he became?Find out on the next episode of LD Lee — Different Doesn’t Mean Less.

Welcome to LD Lee — where people with learning disabilities finally get the microphone. (What could possibly go wrong?)