Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Celeste Franco, a young woman stepping into adulthood while navigating life with chronic illness and special needs.Celeste shares her story — from the beginning of her life, to friendships, to the challenges she faced during high school, and now the transition into adulthood as she prepares to move out on her own for the first time.With honesty, strength, and a lot of personality, Celeste opens up about what independence looks like for her, what she’s learning along the way, and how she continues to grow through both challenges and new opportunities.This episode is for young adults, parents, and caregivers — anyone navigating the transition into adulthood while facing uncertainty — and a reminder that independence looks different for everyone, and that’s okay.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Independence doesn’t look the same for everyone — but every step forward matters.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🌱 A young adult’s journey with chronic illness and special needs🏫 The realities of friendships and high school challenges🏠 What it means to move toward independence💡 How to navigate the transition into adulthood🫶 Encouragement for young adults and families figuring it out⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, and YouTubeFor more about inclusion and our mission, visitwww.merrillbudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Kasey Walsh to begin a powerful conversation about her journey as a mother raising her daughter, Robbie Edwards, who lives with a rare disease.While Robbie was not part of the interview, she is at the center of this story and spoken of with deep love.In Part 1, Kasey shares the early stages of their journey — noticing differences, searching for answers, and navigating the uncertainty that so many families face in the beginning. She opens up about the emotional and practical realities of becoming both a parent and a caregiver, and what it takes to advocate for your child when the path is unclear.This episode offers connection, understanding, and hope for families who are just beginning or still searching for answers.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“The beginning of the journey can feel unknown, but you don’t have to walk it alone.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode👩‍👧 The early journey of raising a child with a rare disease🔍 What it’s like searching for answers and a diagnosis🫶 The emotional reality of becoming a caregiver💬 How advocacy begins within the family❤️ Encouragement for families in the early stages⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, and YouTubeFor more about inclusion and our mission, visitwww.merrillbudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this special episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte and her sister Caroline — also known as “Sweet Caroline” also lives with Cerebral Palsy — share a conversation originally recorded with Blossom of the White Mountains, hosted by Kayla True, Kasey Rives, and Jacob Hakenewerth.Together they talk about Sweet Salvation Bakery, an inclusion bakery in Snowflake, Arizona that creates employment opportunities for people of all abilities while serving the community with delicious healthy baked goods and a mission rooted in belonging.  “Everyone Happier and Healthier; A Belonging Initiative” NonprofitThis conversation celebrates local business, community support, and the idea that meaningful work should be available to everyone.Charlotte and Caroline are grateful to the Blossom team for highlighting their story and helping spread the message that inclusion can grow anywhere — even in a small mountain town bakery.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Inclusion grows when communities believe everyone has something valuable to contribute.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode🧁 The story behind Sweet Salvation Bakery🫶 Why inclusive employment matters🏔️ Community support in the White Mountains of Arizona👩‍🍳 Opportunities for people of all abilities to work and grow❤️ How local businesses can create belonging⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, and YouTubeLearn more about our mission atwww.merrillbudz.orgwww.sweetsalvationbakery.org   ~To Call or TextFind them on Facebook @BlossomOFTheWhiteMountains🎵 Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill

In this supportive episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Britany to talk about Early Intervention and how it helps families of children with disabilities find the support and connections they need.Early intervention helps parents navigate doctors, therapies, and services — especially when they don’t yet know where to turn. Together, Charlotte and Britany discuss how Early Intervention supports children with special needs and how families can find help whether they live in Arizona or anywhere in the world.This episode is for parents and caregivers who feel overwhelmed, unsure, or alone — and for anyone looking for answers, encouragement, and a reminder that support exists.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“ Know that asking for help is a strength — not a failure.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode👶 What Early Intervention is and who it supports🧩 How families get connected to doctors, therapies, and services🌍 Where parents can look for Early Intervention support worldwide💰 How Early Intervention is funded and ways families can access support🫶 Why inclusion matters for children of all abilities❤️ Encouragement for parents and caregivers navigating the early yearsAdditional Resources:About Early Intervention in ArizonaArizona's team-based early intervention services implement the key principles of intervention, which are recommended by the national technical assistance centers funded by the United States Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP).Key Principles of Early Intervention  Infants and toddlers learn best through everyday experiences and interactions with familiar people in familiar contexts.  All families, with the necessary supports and resources, can enhance their children's learning and development.  The primary role of a service provider in early intervention is to work with and support family members and caregivers in children's lives.  The early intervention process, from initial contacts through transition, must be dynamic and individualized to reflect the child's and family members' preferences, learning styles and cultural beliefs.  IFSP outcomes must be functional and based on children's and families' needs and family-identified priorities.  The family's priorities, needs and interests are addressed most appropriately by a primary provider who represents and receives team and community support.  Interventions with young children and family members must be based on explicit principles, validated practices, best available research, and relevant laws and regulations.Additional Key Principles Resources  Seven Key Principles: Looks Like / Doesn't Look Like (https://ectacenter.org/~pdfs/topics/families/Principles_LooksLike_DoesntLookLike3_11_0 time=1771608457079)  Key Principles of Early Intervention and Effective Practices: A Crosswalk with Statements from Discipline Specific Literaturetime=1771608457079) 2014)(https://ectacenter.org/-pdfs/topics/eiservices/KeyPrinciplesMatrix_01_30_15.pdf?⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, and YouTubeFor more about inclusion and our mission, visit www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this continuation episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte shares Part 2 of a powerful conversation originally featured on Health with Sveta.Dr. Sveta Silverman reconnects with Charlotte’s mom, Anna Merrill and her Dad, Loren Merrill, to go deeper into what daily life really looks like while raising children with both physical and mental challenges. Building on their earlier discussion about neuroplasticity, this episode focuses on real-life routines, adaptations, setbacks, and small victories — the parts of the journey that don’t always get talked about.Together, they explore how hope, consistency, faith, and support shape growth over time — and how neuroplasticity shows up not just in science, but in everyday family life.This episode is for parents, caregivers, educators, the medical field and anyone walking alongside someone with disabilities — reminding us that progress is personal, and growth often happens quietly.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Remember, progress looks different for everyone — and every step forward matters.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🧠 How neuroplasticity shows up in everyday life🏠 What daily routines and adaptations really look like🫶 The emotional side of caregiving that often goes unseen💡 Why consistency and hope matter more than perfection❤️ How families find strength in the long journey⸻🌐 Now streaming onSpotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, and YouTubeFor more about inclusion and our mission, visit www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte shares a special conversation originally recorded on the podcast Health with Sveta, hosted by Dr. Sveta Silverman.Dr. Sveta sits down with Anna Merrill, a mom raising three children with both physical and cognitive challenges, to talk about family life, resilience, and the role neuroplasticity can play in growth, learning, and hope.This episode offers a real-life look at adapting as a family, believing in possibility, and supporting brain health and development — even when the road is hard.It’s a reminder that progress doesn’t always look the same, but hope can still grow.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Hope grows when we believe in what people can become.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🧠 What neuroplasticity means in everyday family life🫶 How families adapt through physical and cognitive challenges💡 Why hope and belief matter in long-term growth👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Real stories of resilience and love❤️ The power of listening and understanding⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, YouTube, and Amazon MusicFor more about inclusion and our mission, visit www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill

In this episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Michael and his grandmother, Maryann — members of our Sweet Salvation Bakery sourdough team.This is Michael’s first job, supported through inclusive employment at the bakery and through our Unified Special Olympics community. Together, Michael and Mary Ann are not only learning the art of sourdough — they’re building confidence, skills, and even creating their own sourdough brand, supported by Sweet Salvation Bakery.This conversation is about dignity, teamwork, patience, and what happens when people are given the opportunity to belong and contribute in meaningful ways.It’s inclusion in action — one loaf, one lesson, and one relationship at a time.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Everyone deserves the chance to work, learn, and feel proud of what they create.” 💛“I love seeing people discover what they’re capable of — one step and one dream at a time.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🍞 What supported employment looks like in real life🫶 How family, community, and patience build confidence💡 Why meaningful work matters for people of all abilities👵 The power of learning and creating together across generations❤️ How inclusion grows when people are believed in⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, YouTube, and Amazon MusicLearn more about our mission at www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill

In this special Christmas episode of So Let’s Be Friends, we share a beautiful example of inclusion in action.People of different abilities, from different places around the world, come together to read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” in a collaborative project created by ABLE Radio. Each voice is unique, and each voice belongs.Charlotte and her mom were honored to take part in this meaningful project, which reminds us that inclusion isn’t just something we talk about — it’s something we live.This short episode is meant to be listened to and felt, as a reminder of connection, belonging, and the true spirit of the season.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Inclusion means everyone gets to share the story — together.” 💛Merry Christmas! I love you!⸻✨ What You’ll Experience in This Episode🎄 Voices of different abilities from around the world🎙️ A collaborative storytelling project by ABLE Radio🫶 A living example of inclusion through shared storytelling🌍 A reminder that everyone belongs — especially at Christmas⸻🌐 Now streaming on YouTube, Audible, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon MusicLearn more about inclusion and our mission atwww.MerrillBudz.orgSpecial thanks to Able Radio  More Informations:  http://NomadSanta.substack.com🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this warm Thanksgiving episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte gathers with her cousins to talk about what it’s like growing up together — cousins with special needs and cousins who are typical — and how family naturally teaches love, patience, and inclusion.Together they share memories, laughter, lessons they’ve learned from each other, and the gratitude that comes from belonging to a family that loves every ability.If your family is coming together this week or has come together, this episode is a reminder that inclusion begins at home — one cousin, one moment, one small act of love at a time.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Family teaches us how to include.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🧡 How cousins create natural inclusion in everyday life🦃 Gratitude and meaningful moments from growing up together👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why family is the first community we learn from❤️ Real stories about love, patience, and helping each other💡 How typical and special needs cousins strengthen one another⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible and YouTube!For more about inclusion and our mission, visit www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte welcomes Bruce Solsten, director of KDSTR Radio Corp and creator of ABLE Radio Lab — a media platform that empowers people with disabilities and underserved communities to share their stories.Bruce shares the history of Perry Damone’s original mission, the creation of the ABLE Radio Portal, and the heart behind his Nomad Santa storytelling project. Together, he and Charlotte explore what it means to build a world where every story matters and every voice can be heard.Whether you’re a creator, a student, or someone who believes in the power of inclusion, this episode will remind you why belonging begins with listening.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Belonging happens when your voice is heard — just the way it is and noticing others. ”  "There is no box, get out of the box and kick it away "💛✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode🎧 The 30-year legacy of KDSTR and Perry Damone🫶 How ABLE Radio Lab creates a space for every voice🌐 What the ABLE Radio Portal offers new storytellers📚 The origin of the Nomad Santa project🤝 Why community partnerships strengthen inclusion💡 Advice for young people who want to share their stories⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible and YouTube!Visit MerrillBudz.org to learn more about our mission of inclusion and how to be Happier and Healthier, we can support you.🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte reflects on the life and legacy of Judith Heumann — the fearless disability rights advocate and author of Being Heumann.Charlotte shares stories from Judith’s journey that remind us what it truly means to “act human” — to see people first, to stand up for what’s right, and to lead with love in every interaction.Through laughter, honesty, and heart, Charlotte helps listeners connect Judith’s story to their own lives — reminding us that inclusion isn’t something extra; it’s the essence of being human.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“I wish people understood that disability isn’t something to fix — it’s part of who we are. Just like Judith said, it’s not about feeling sorry for us, it’s about seeing us as equals.”✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode📚 Who Judith Heumann was and why her story still matters💛 How ‘acting human’ means seeing and including everyone🫶 The power of advocacy through kindness and courage💬 Lessons from Being Heumann that inspire everyday inclusion🌎 How one person’s story can start a movement for change⸻🌐 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Buzzsprout, Amazon Music, and YouTube!For more about inclusion and our mission, visit www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 (Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with three incredible moms — Nancy Ruffell, Lynette Nicoll, and Leah Clarke — to talk about the real, everyday journey of raising children and adults with special needs.These women share their stories of love, faith, exhaustion, laughter, and hope. Together, they explore what it means to advocate, to include, and to never give up — even when life looks different than expected.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or friend to someone with special needs, this episode will remind you that inclusion begins at home — and that every family’s story adds strength to the community we’re building together.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Every mom has a story that helps another one keep going.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode👩‍👧 The heart behind motherhood in the special needs community🫶 How faith, friendship, and advocacy build resilience💡 Tips from moms on creating inclusion that lasts💬 Real stories of strength, exhaustion, and everyday miracles❤️ Why families are at the heart of inclusion⸻🎧 Listen Now OnSpotify • Apple Podcasts • YouTube • Amazon Music🌐 Learn more about our mission at www.MerrillBudz.org🎵 Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with her best friend Enya to share their personal stories, friendship, and wisdom as young adults with unique abilities.Building on their recent talks about turning trials into blessings, Charlotte and Enya open up about what it means to celebrate all abilities, support one another, and dream big for the future. Together, they show us that inclusion isn’t just an idea—it’s lived out through friendship, resilience, and love.Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone who just wants to understand inclusion better, this episode will leave you inspired by their voices, honesty, and hope.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote💛 “Abilities are worth celebrating—because every person has something amazing to offer.”  "Practice makes Awesome!"“Being included doesn’t mean being the same. It means being celebrated for who you are.”⸻"Love me for me" -Enya✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode👯 The story of Charlotte & Enya’s friendship🌱 How trials can turn into blessings in real life💼 Dreams and goals of young adults with disabilities❤️ What true inclusion and belonging look like💡 Advice for peers, parents, and communities to better support all abilities⸻Reach out to us, connect, and learn more at www.Merrillbudz.orgWe would love to hear from you!🎶 Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and YouTube.(Music, written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this heartfelt and personal episode of "So Let’s Be Friends," Charlotte shares her powerful talk about trials, tribulations, and how they can become blessings in disguise. Freshly called to serve an 18-month service mission, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs that shaped her journey and strengthened her heart.Charlotte is joined by her friend Enya and community friend Eric Scott — both sharing inspiring messages about hope, resilience, and how to see blessings even in hard times. Together, they remind us that whether you believe in Christ, a higher power, or simply in the strength of the human spirit, there is a place for you here. No matter your religion or beliefs. This episode is a moving invitation to see hope, purpose, and compassion in every season of life.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote"The path isn't always easy, but every step can bring unexpected blessings." Charlotte⸻✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode🌟 Charlotte’s heartfelt speech on turning trials into blessings🤝 Enya’s uplifting message of hope and perspective🎤 Eric Scott’s insights on walking through challenges with strength💡 How faith, compassion, and higher purpose can unite us across beliefs🎶 Young voices singing about living with Christlike love and kindness❤️ Encouragement for anyone facing challenges or seeking hope⸻🔗 Learn MoreVisit http://www.Merrillbudz.org to learn more about inclusion, our mission, and how to be part of the movement. We believe in Everyone Happier and Healthier.🎙️ So Let’s Be Friends — where we listen, learn, and love one another.⸻📡 Streaming InfoNow streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.(Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)⸻

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Mrs. Cher Lewis, who leads the Transition School to Work (TSW) program at the high school.The TSW program helps students with disabilities prepare for life after graduation by teaching real-world skills, creating job opportunities, and building the confidence to live independently.Charlotte and Mrs. Lewis talk about how families, teachers, and communities can partner together to create smoother transitions from school to adult life. This episode is filled with practical advice, encouragement, and stories of what’s possible when students are truly supported.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote “When we believe in students and give them opportunities, they can do more than we ever imagined.” — Charlotte 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode•🏫 How the Transition School to Work (TSW) program supports students•💼 Steps families and teachers can take to prepare for life after high school•🌱 Ways students with disabilities can grow independence and confidence•🤝 The power of schools, general education students/partners, parents, and businesses working together•❤️ Real success stories of students who found their place in the community🌱 Learn more, connect and join our mission at www.Merrillbudz.orgNow streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.(Music, written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte welcomes Nancy—a mother and teacher—along with her two amazing adult daughters, Elizabeth and Emma. Together, they share what life looks like beyond school: navigating jobs, independence, friendships, and belonging in the adult world with special needs.You’ll hear wisdom from a mom who has walked both the parenting and teaching paths, and powerful voices from her daughters who are stepping forward, contributing, and shining in their own ways.This conversation is filled with hope, honesty, and practical insight for families, educators, and anyone who believes in the power of true inclusion.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote“Everyone deserves the chance to grow up, find their place, and shine in their own way.” 💛⸻✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode•👩‍👧 Lessons from a mother and teacher navigating school and adulthood•💼 How adults with special needs can find jobs and contribute to society•🌱 The importance of community support in building independence•💡 Advice for parents and teachers planning for life after high school•❤️ Real stories of inclusion, resilience, and dreams coming true🌱 Learn more and join our mission at www.Merrillbudz.org.Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.(Music, written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

In Part Two of this two-part series, Charlotte continues her heartfelt conversation with her speech therapist and physical therapist friend. Together, they share stories, practical advice, and real wisdom about how therapy is more than a session—it’s a bridge to independence, confidence, and inclusion.…. we dive deeper into how therapy helps individuals with disabilities find their voice, grow their strength, and build confidence. This isn’t just about exercises or goals—it’s about real people, real support, and real inclusion.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, support or friend, this episode will remind you that every voice matters, every step forward counts, and we’re stronger when we walk this journey together.💛 “Inclusion is stronger when everyone has the tools to shine.” —Charlotte👂 You’ll hear:• How therapy builds confidence & independence• Ways parents and educators can support therapy at home and school• The heart behind being a therapist and why relationships matter• Why every small step is worth celebrating🎙️ So Let’s Be Friends — where we listen, learn, and love one another.📍 Farm life disclaimer! 🐓🌾 Yes, the roosters, sprinklers, dogs barking and maybe even a tractor make their cameo again. Thanks for smiling with us through the real-life soundtrack of inclusion!Now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.(Music, written and performed by Kalicia Merrill)

📢 A brand-new episode of So Let’s Be Friends is live — and it’s so good, we had to split it into two parts!This week, Charlotte chats with her amazing speech therapist and her friend, a physical therapist, about what it really takes to support individuals with disabilities—at school, with doctors, and in the community.💬 Learn how to find your voice and be heard🤝 Discover how therapists can be powerful allies🏫 Hear how to work with schools and doctors—not against them📣 Gain real steps to begin advocating for yourself or your child🛠️ And learn how professionals help build confidence and independence!⸻🐓 P.S. — Yes, you may hear a rooster or a sprinkler in the background.That’s just life on the farm! 🌾We record from our homestead, so thanks for loving the podcast and the background music of horses, dogs, chickens, and sprinklers. 😂🎙️ and maybe even a duck.⸻💛 Charlotte’s Quote:“Having support doesn’t mean you’re not strong—it means you’re ready to rise.” 💛⸻📱 Now streaming on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Podcasts!And top of the charts when searching "embracing inclusion" wherever you listen.🎧 Like. Share. Subscribe. And join Charlotte in building a more inclusive world—one story at a time.(Music, "When it Rains" written and performed by Kalicia Merrill) 

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte interviews a remarkable family, the Sandoval Family,  who lives out love and inclusion every day. Their daughter, who lives with seizures, is a proud Little Caesars employee and a vibrant part of her community. Her parents and brothers are passionate about giving back and lifting others—especially through Special Olympics Unified.Get ready to meet a family that shows us what it means to contribute, include, and love without limits.⸻💡 In this episode, you’ll hear about: • How a young adult with seizures and Cerebral Palsy contributes to her community and workplace and how to handle a seizure. • The power of a supportive and inclusive family • Real ways families give back to others with special needs • Encouragement for parents raising children with disabilities • Why showing up matters more than being perfect, while gaining confidence.💛 Charlotte’s Quote:“Inclusion isn’t just a word—it’s something you do, together.” ⸻🎙️ Hosted by Charlotte | So Let’s Be Friends PodcastNow streaming on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts & more.Music written and performed by Kalicia Merrill

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Charlotte steps into the spotlight—not as host, but as guest.Interviewed by her mom, Charlotte shares her story of growing up with disability, the friendships that shaped her, and how she became a voice for inclusion. She opens up about her faith, her family, and the powerful influence of disability rights legend Judith Heumann—who once trained with Charlotte on Zoom and helped her believe she could lead, speak, and spark change.You’ll hear:•How Charlotte found her purpose through love and friendship•What inclusion means to her and her family•A special tribute to Judith Heumann•And the strength it takes to speak up—and invite others in💛 Charlotte quotes “Because of Judith, I don’t feel alone. I feel part of something bigger.”Whether you’re new to the podcast or have been following since episode one, this heartfelt conversation will stay with you.🎙️ So Let’s Be Friends – where every story matters, and every person belongs.🎙️ We are also Introducing: Acting Heumann WeekAnd so this his week on So Let’s Be Friends, we’re doing something special while interviewing Charlotte.We’re calling it “Acting Heumann Week”—a tribute to the extraordinary Judith Heumann, disability rights leader, advocate, and author of Being Heumann.Judith didn’t just write about justice—she lived it. She made space, lifted voices, opened doors, and demanded inclusion—not just for herself, but for generations to come.So this week, we’re not just talking about disability and inclusion.We’re "Acting Heumann."We’ll be sharing stories, interviews, and reflections inspired by Judith’s life and leadership—including voices of people she inspired, like Charlotte.🧡 Because inclusion isn’t just a conversation—it’s a commitment.And Judith taught us that real change starts with real people choosing to act.Welcome to Acting Heumann Week.Let’s be bold. Let’s be kind.Let’s be Heumann.(Music, "When it Rains" written and performed by Kalicia Merrill  Speech, Charlotte speaks at Tgen -bringing awareness to rare disease  -11 yrs. old "Let's Be Friends")

In this heartwarming episode, Charlotte interviews two incredible high school graduates—recipients of the Kika Inclusion Award, named after her sister, a true symbol of love and inclusion. 💫Join us as we celebrate these two students, one young woman and one young man, who are leading with kindness, compassion, and a heart for others. They share what inclusion means to them, stories from their school experiences, and how they plan to carry inclusion into the future.These young leaders share what inclusion means to them, the moments that shaped their journey, and how they plan to carry the spirit of kindness forward into their next chapter.🌟 Why it matters:Every friendship, every small act of inclusion, makes the world a better place.This episode is a powerful reminder that one act of friendship, one welcoming smile, and one inclusive choice can change a life.💛 Quote from Charlotte:Inclusion means no one is left out—and everyone is seen, heard, and loved. They share powerful stories of friendship, leadership, and what it means to create a community where no one is left out. These young award winners are continuing the legacy of love and inclusion through their everyday actions.🔊 Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, or advocate—this conversation will leave you moved, motivated, and hopeful.🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share!🎧 Tune in and be inspired by the voices of the next generation of changemakers!

In this special episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte takes us inside the incredible 77 Subaru event—a vibrant day dedicated to raising awareness, celebrating ability, and championing inclusion for all.Charlotte interviews a dozen amazing guests, including athletes with disabilities, their Unified Partners, parents, coaches, and volunteers. Each conversation highlights the power of inclusion, teamwork, and what it means to belong—both on and off the field.From stories of resilience to moments of joy and connection, this episode is a beautiful reminder that when we make room for everyone, everyone wins.✨ You’ll hear about:• What inclusion looks like in sports and everyday life• How Unified Partners and athletes support one another• Parents’ hopes and dreams for their children• How events like these are changing hearts and communities• Why building friendships across differences matters💛 Quote from Charlotte:“When we create spaces where everyone is seen and celebrated, something beautiful happens—we grow closer, kinder, and more unified.”

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with 63-year-old Desiree Scholin, a wise and joyful woman who shares her powerful journey of living with special needs over the last six decades. From early challenges to faith-filled breakthroughs, Desiree’s story is one of courage, community, and deep hope.Together, they discuss how inclusion has changed through the years, the power of friendship, and what it means to be seen, heard, and loved. This episode is a beautiful reminder that everyone belongs—and every voice matters.✨ Topics Covered:• Living with a disability in earlier decades• The evolution of inclusion• The role of faith in daily life• Lessons for younger generations• Building a more inclusive world❤️ Quote from Charlotte:“Every conversation like this brings us one step closer to the kind of world Jesus would want—full of love, friendship, and inclusion.”

Discover the power of inclusion, love, and the beauty of differences in the first episode of So Let's Be Friends. Join Charlotte, who lives with cerebral palsy and a rare disease, as she shares her journey and invites her family to introduce themselves and discuss their unique bond. This podcast is a celebration of resilience and the strength found in unity. Charlotte's family opens up about the challenges and triumphs they have faced together, offering insights into their lives and the lessons they've learned along the way. Experience the warmth of a family that works hard and plays hard, and discover how they support each other through every obstacle. From early days filled with uncertainty to moments of joy and growth, their story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive. Through heartfelt conversations, Charlotte and her family aim to raise awareness, foster understanding, and show that everyone belongs. Embrace the journey of learning, loving, and living life to the fullest, regardless of the pace. Looking forward to interviewing and learning more about others on this podcast. #SoLetsBeFriends