Episodes
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Mary Williams Saw the Gap in Care and Started New Start Health
We speak with Sian Welch and her mother, Mary Williams, about New Start Health, a care center for respirator-dependent quadriplegics. Mary began this work decades ago after seeing young patients discharged to nursing homes without a real plan. They developed small, home-like skilled nursing…
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"Beyond Accommodations: Creating True Disability Inclusion with Dr. Jess Nerren"
We speak with Dr. Jess Narren, the Faculty Inclusion Fellow for Disability, Difference and Accommodation at Cal State San Bernardino, who leads campus efforts and oversees accommodations for over 2,000 students. She explains the social model of disability and how she works to change systems and...
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David Christopher Explains Boccia: Rules, Strategy, and How to Start
Addie and I speak with David Christopher, a national and international boccia referee who teaches the rules, strategy, player classifications, and how to get involved. I am Doug Vincent and I am Addie Rich and we host Walk and Roll Live. David explains how boccia is played, how points are scored,...
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Ms Wheelchair America, Jamie Clendening Reveals Her Focus for the Year: Healthcare Access and Systemic Change
We help Jamie Clendening reveal her focus for the year: pushing for systemic change in healthcare so people get the therapy, equipment, and accessible exam rooms and scales they need. As Ms. Wheelchair America 2027, I will travel to states, meet with lawmakers, and work with organizations to…
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We Discuss Autonomous Vehicles, Brain Interfaces, and Disability with Rabbi Mike Rothschild
We welcomed Rabbi Mike Rothschild to discuss AI and how it can serve the disabled community. We examined both philosophical and pragmatic dimensions, foregrounding how AI, assistive robotics, autonomous mobility, and advanced prosthetics can enhance independence while insisting upon the…
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I Turned a Greeter Job into a Voice for Disability Rights: Spann Cordle
We focus at the outset on how AI and media shape public views of people with disabilities and why that matters to our community. We speak with Spann Cordle, who shares his lived experience as a Walmart associate and the deep impact of his service dog, Finn, on his work and advocacy. We describe...
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From Foster Care to Future Leader: Jay Sowell's Path
Jay Sowell's remarkable journey, marked by his birth with Spina Bifida and subsequent experiences in the foster care system, serves as a testament to resilience and determination. Throughout this discourse, I recount how Jay, driven by an unwavering desire for independence, has embarked on an...
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Navigating the Complexities of SCN8A: A Conversation with LaRa and Solara
A profound exploration of SCN8A awareness unfolds as I engage in a compelling dialogue with LaRa and Solara Ashton. Their narrative is emblematic of resilience in the face of adversity, as they navigate the complexities of a life marked by the challenges of multiple diagnoses, including epilepsy,...
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Navigating Life After Disability: Rick Hayden shares Insights from Spinal Network
This podcast episode features an enlightening discussion with Rick Hayden, the founder of Spinal Network, who expounds upon his journey from sustaining a spinal cord injury to establishing a vital support network for individuals with disabilities. He articulates the necessity of fostering…
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Reclaiming the Wilderness: Sebastian Zaghoubi's Journey to Embrace Nature Again
Sebastian Zaghoubi's journey exemplifies resilience and a profound connection to the outdoors, despite the profound challenges he has faced following a life-altering accident. After sustaining a spinal cord injury, Sebastian embarked on a tumultuous path of recovery, grappling with the realities…
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Finding Community: The Power of Connection in the Disability Experience
This podcast episode features an enlightening discussion centered on the upcoming event titled "Rage and Rewrite," which aims to provide a unique space for individuals to express their emotions and navigate the complexities of life’s challenges. The host, a polio survivor, articulates the...
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Navigating Life with Cerebral Palsy: Insights from Abddalah Anwar
Abdallah Anwar, known affectionately as AB, joins us this week on Walk and Roll Live to share his profound journey as an individual living with cerebral palsy. In this enlightening discussion, we delve into the intersections of mobility, independence, and personal growth, as AB recounts his...
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Transforming Lives: How Options for All Supports the Disabled Community
This week's podcast features an enlightening discussion with Leo Zuno from Options for All, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The core focus of our conversation revolves around the essential services provided by Options for...
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Overcoming the Odds: The Inspiring Tale of a Combat Veteran
Geoff Quevedo, a combat veteran who sustained life-altering injuries while serving in Afghanistan, shares his profound journey of resilience and recovery. After losing an arm and a leg while sweeping for mines, Geoff faced months of intensive medical care, during which he grappled with the...
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Navigating Life with Dwarfism: Experiences and Insights from Becky Curran
This podcast episode elucidates the impactful narrative of Becky Curran, a distinguished advocate for individuals with disabilities, as she shares her journey and experiences. Central to our discussion is the profound emphasis on community, resilience, and the importance of open dialogue...
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"Amplifying Disability Voices: A Journey through Sports and Life with Rudy Garcia-Tolson"
This podcast episode elucidates the profound significance of adaptive sports and the invaluable resources provided by organizations such as the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF). We delve into the personal narrative of Rudy Garcia Tolson, whose journey as a double above-the-knee amputee has…
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"Revolutionizing Adaptive Sports: Kelly Brush's Vision for the Future"
Kelly Brush, a distinguished downhill skier who sustained a spinal cord injury, has transformed her personal adversity into a powerful movement through the Kelly Brush Foundation. This organization is dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities by providing them with access to adaptive...
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Revolutionizing Hearing: The Breakthrough of Cochlear Implants for Newborns
The discussion centers on the availability and significance of cochlear implants for infants, highlighting the transformative impact these devices can have on early childhood development. We engage with Dr. Nancy Young, a pioneering figure in the field, alongside Doug and Ewa Tweedy, whose...
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Aging and Disability: Insights from Joyce Reynolds of the ADRC
Joyce Reynolds from the Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) elucidates the critical role her organization plays in providing vital resources and support for seniors and individuals with disabilities. At the forefront of her discourse, she emphasizes the necessity of accessible assistance...
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"Aspiration Over Inspiration: Shonna Counter's Powerful Narrative"
Shonna Counter, diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 3, imparts her profound journey of resilience and self-discovery in this enlightening conversation. From her early childhood experiences to her current endeavors as a multifaceted individual, Shonna emphasizes the importance of viewing...
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Reclaiming Strength: Jesi Stracham's Advocacy and Empowerment Journey
In this enlightening discussion, we engage with Jesi Stracham, a prominent social media influencer, health coach, and advocate for the disabled community. Jesi shares her profound journey of overcoming personal adversity following a life-changing injury, illustrating her resilience and...
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Surviving the Streets: Bernard Taruc's Encounter with Violence and Change
Bernard Taruc's narrative is an evocative testament to the transformative power of experience, underscored by a life-altering incident that irrevocably changed his trajectory. After immigrating to the United States as a teenager, he became captivated by the vibrant culture, yet inevitably found...
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Empowering Expression: Building Confidence in Dance
The adaptation of dance and theatre to accommodate diverse physical and cognitive abilities is a central theme of our conversation. We delve into the prevalent misconceptions surrounding students with disabilities in the performing arts, illuminating the need for a paradigm shift in public...
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Navigating Life After Injury: A Candid Discussion on Disability and Advocacy
This podcast episode centers on the compelling narrative of Suzie Gulshan, a C7 incomplete quadriplegic, who shares her journey of resilience following a life-altering injury sustained during a fitness class. We delve into the intricacies of her recovery, highlighting the critical role of...
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"Life After SCI: Arthur Martinot’s Road to Recovery"
Arthur Martinot, a C6-C7 quadriplegic, shares his transformative journey following a life-altering diving accident during a vacation in Spain. This episode illuminates the resilience of the human spirit, as Arthur recounts not only his struggles but also the remarkable progress he has achieved in...
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"Living with Functional Neurological Disorder: A Personal Account"
This episode of Walk and Roll Live delves into the intricate and often misunderstood realm of Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) through the compelling narrative of our guest, Gemma Davies. In our discussion, we explore the profound impact of her diagnosis on her life, illuminating the...
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"Unveiling DateAbility: A Podcast Exploration of Love and Disability"
This episode presents an insightful dialogue regarding the complexities of dating as individuals with disabilities. Doug and Addie not only share their personal stories but also emphasize the transformative potential of the DateAbility app. They discuss the app's unique features, which allow…
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From Challenges to Triumphs: A Conversation with Dena Peterson
The salient point of this podcast episode centers around the profound resilience and adaptability inherent within the disability community, as exemplified by the inspiring narrative of our esteemed guest, Dena Peterson. We delve into Dina's extensive journey, encompassing her experiences with...
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Navigating New Realities: Dan Fernandez's Life After Spinal Cord Injury
Dan Fernandez's life underwent a profound transformation following a catastrophic car accident in April 2018, resulting in a broken back, a severed spinal cord, and various other injuries. Once a successful retail executive, overseeing 70 stores as a Regional Director, Dan's transition to living...
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From Client to Leader: Rene Rojo on Advocacy, Community Impact & Using Your Voice
The primary focus of this podcast episode is to illuminate the multifaceted narratives within the disability community, specifically through the lens of our esteemed guest, Renee Rojo. We delve into the profound impact of community engagement and advocacy for individuals with disabilities,...
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"Abilities Expo Long Beach 2026 Wrap-Up | Adaptive Tech, New Connections & Inspiring Stories"
This week on Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Addie and I are joined by past guests Bobby Rohan and Robert Soto as we wrap up our weekend at the Abilities Expo in Long Beach. We spent two full days exploring the new venue, meeting innovators, reconnecting with friends in the disability...
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"From Surviving to Thriving: Lera Alexandrova’s Journey of Overcoming Change"
On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug and Addie sit down with Lera Alexandrova, founder of Overcoming Change, to talk about resilience, motherhood, and finding purpose after life-altering challenges. Lera’s story began with a devastating childhood accident that led to...
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"When the Blur Finally Makes Sense: Ky Westcott on ADHD, Humor, and Healing"
Content creator Ky Westcott, known for “The Vibe With Ky,” joins Walk and Roll Live to talk about the life-changing moment when he was diagnosed with inattentive ADHD at age 34 — and how that diagnosis finally helped him understand the experiences he had struggled with for years. Ky opens up…
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Caregiving, Courage, and the Open Road: Sandy Gilbreath’s Journey Raising a Son with Spinal Muscular Atrophy
What does life look like when motherhood, caregiving, advocacy, and adventure all intersect? On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, host Doug Vincent and co-host Addie Rich welcome Sandy Gilbreath — blogger, travel influencer, caregiver, and mother to Cory, who lives with...
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"From Hot Mess to Holy Success: Jeana Nunez on Faith, Motherhood & Living with a Rare Neuromuscular Disease"
This week on Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich welcome Jeana Nunez — life and business transformation coach, mom of four, woman of faith, and a warrior living with a rare neuromuscular disease. After years of misdiagnosis, ER visits, and hospital stays, Jeana’s...
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"From Rehabilitation to Recreation: How Casa Colina Is Redefining Life After Injury"
What happens after the hospital stay ends? In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live, Doug and Addie sit down with two dynamic leaders from Casa Colina in Pomona, California, to explore what true recovery really looks like after neurologic or traumatic injury. Dr. Rachel Tabak Tran, Director...
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“Defying the Odds: Ty Gipson’s Journey Through Illness, Transplants, and Purpose”
On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent sits down with Ty Gipson, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and resilience advocate whose life has been shaped by extraordinary medical and personal challenges. Diagnosed with Type 1 juvenile diabetes at a young age, Ty’s...
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“Built for Impact: Myles Pearson, Wheelchair Rugby, and Redefining Possibility”
Myles Pearson is a British Paralympian whose journey in wheelchair rugby is defined by talent, resilience, and fearless honesty. Born with Arthrogryposis and raised in Lytham St Annes, Myles first made his mark in wheelchair tennis—reaching the world top 25 as a junior—before discovering…
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Empowering Rural Women & Children With Disabilities in Uganda | The TORUWU Story
In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we travel to rural Uganda to shine a light on the powerful work of Training Of Rural Women in Uganda (TORUWU). For more than two decades, TORUWU has been empowering women, children, and families through education, income-generating programs, healthcare, and...
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Seen, Heard, and Empowered: Michelle Steiner’s Journey with an Invisible Disability
In this episode of Walk & Roll Live, we’re joined by Michelle Steiner, advocate, writer, photographer, and founder of Michelle’s Mission. Michelle lives with an invisible learning disability and grew up being told there were limits to what she could achieve. Today, she’s a college graduate,...
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“Back on Track: Avriel’s Journey Through Spinal Cord Injury, Leadership, and Rediscovery”
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Walk and Roll Live, Doug and Addie welcome Avriel, a former railroad executive whose life took an unexpected turn following a back surgery that resulted in a T5 spinal cord injury. Avriel takes us back to his roots—growing up in Charleston, moving…
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“Kent’s Never Give Up: Mike Kent on Surviving Medical Trauma, Stroke, and Reclaiming Identity”
In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, host Doug Vincent welcomes Mike Kent, a stroke survivor whose life changed in an instant after a routine surgery in Paris went catastrophically wrong. What was meant to be a simple nose operation in 2019 resulted in a massive...
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“Rolling Forward with Purpose: Ms. Wheelchair USA RaeAnne Lindsay on Healing, Advocacy, and Representation”
Diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis at just 10 months old, RaeAnne Lindsay has spent her life navigating disability — and transforming that lived experience into powerful advocacy. In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, host Doug Vincent sits down with Ms. Wheelchair USA 2024 to explore her...
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“Rolling Forward: Stories That Moved Us in 2025 — and What’s Ahead in 2026”
As we close out 2025, Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories takes a moment to reflect on the conversations that moved us, challenged us, and inspired us throughout the year. In this special year-end wrap-up episode, host Doug Vincent revisits powerful stories from guests who shared their lived...
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Choosing Life: Anna Keibler on Mental Illness, Motherhood, and Writing a Legacy
On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, hosts Doug Vincent and Addie Rich welcome author and mental health advocate Anna Keibler for a powerful and honest conversation about living with mental illness as a disability. Anna shares her journey with bipolar disorder and...
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“Camaraderie, Courage, and Community: The Daniel Palacios Story”
In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with U.S. Army veteran Daniel Palacios, whose life changed forever after a tragic motorcycle accident left him paralyzed at the T5–T6 level. Daniel takes us through his journey—from serving…
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“Life With a Rare Muscle Disease: Donald Allison’s Story of Strength”
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, hosts Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with Donald Allison, who shares his lifelong journey from growing up in Fontana, California, to living today in Yucca Valley near Joshua Tree National Monument.…
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"Rebuilding Life at T-6: Chris Pecson’s Journey from Street Bike Accident to Computer Science Dreams"
In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with Chris Pecson from Reno, Nevada, whose life changed in 2015 after a devastating street bike accident left him with a complete T-6 spinal cord injury. Chris opens up about the day of the...
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“Building Champions: The Carl Vereen Story – Junior Wheelchair Basketball & The Rolling Cubs”
On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug and Addie sit down with legendary adaptive sports coach Carl Vereen, founder of the Rolling Cubs Junior Wheelchair Basketball Team. Carl shares his incredible journey from coaching championship teams in Michigan to creating new...
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“From the Ashes of War: Suhrab Zarifi’s Journey from Childhood Tragedy to Triumph”
At just five years old, Suhrab Zarifi’s life was forever changed when a bomb blast in war-torn Afghanistan left him paralyzed. What could have been a story of loss became a story of unbreakable spirit. In this moving episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, hosts Doug Vincent and Addie...