PODCAST · health
A Little View
by gwyndrabek
A Little View is a podcast that provides a unique perspective on health, wellness, and life from the viewpoint of a little person.The podcast dives into the challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences that come with being a little person in a world built for taller individuals.While the focus is on the little person community, A Little View is for everyone—whether you’re a little person or not. The podcast is a space where listeners can feel seen, supported, and empowered through real conversations about everything
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49
Breaking Free from Diet Myths with Therapist Sam Graham
Today we sit down with eating disorder specialist Sam Graham. We discuss so many important topics such as different communites, GLP-1, what health looks like and what can someone do when they are feeling out of tune with their body.
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48
Fueling the Court with Detroit Pistons Head Chef
Today Host Gwyn sits down with Chef Shawn for another episode for Nutrition Month. Gwyn learns what it takes to be a chef and the meaning behind his cooking. Chef talks about the passion he has cooking for elite athletes and how it was different than other jobs, but how is truly so grateful for this position.
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47
Celebrating the Wins in Cancer Care: A Dietitian’s Perspective
Keeping up with Nutrition Month, we have Emily Hoy on the podcast! She is a dietitian who uses food to support people undergoing cancer treatment. I’ve been following Emily for a while now, and in this episode, she shares what it takes to work in this field—the joys, the challenges of watching clients go through treatment, the impact her clients leave on her, and the misconceptions about working with this population. Many people assume it must be a sad job, but Emily shows us that it’s actually deeply rewarding. I think her work is so important, and I hope everyone listening can feel the passion she brings to her clients. They are truly lucky to have someone who genuinely cares and always wants the best for them.
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46
When Patients Can’t Speak: Renee Gawel’s Approach to ICU Nutrition
In this episode, we sit down with Renee Gawel she is a dietitan. Renee specializes in tube feeding and is a strong advocate for being the voice for her patients when they are unable to make decisions for themselves. In this episode, she talks about the importance of nutrition in the healing process. We also end the conversation discussing her passion for plant-based nutrition, how she incorporates it into her work, and how she lives that philosophy in her own life
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45
Nutrition Month: Finding Balance with Dr. Cress
My favorite month is finally here..WOOHOOO Nutrition Month! To kick off this series, I’m starting with my favorite professor, Dr. Diane Cress. She’s the chair of the Nutrition Department at Wayne State University, holds a PhD, and has been an inspiring professor for many students. In this episode, we get to know her not just as a professor and registered dietitian, but as a person as well
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44
James Ayers: Saying Goodbye to Your Comfort Zone
This week I’m joined by James Ayers, who shares what it really looks like to say goodbye to your comfort zone. From moving from Texas to Jacksonville and eventually to Chicago, to stepping into leadership, public speaking, and even training for a half marathon — James talks about choosing growth even when it’s uncomfortable. As a little person navigating new environments and big cities, he shares how faith, confidence, and taking the first step have shaped his independence. If you’ve been waiting to feel “ready” before making a move, this episode is your reminder that you probably never will. Growth starts with one step.
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43
Jeremy Smith: Lightest Man to Lift 700 Pounds
In this episode of A Little View, host Gwyn Drabek interviews Jeremy Smith, a powerlifter and advocate for individuals with dwarfism. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey in the fitness world, discussing how he overcame challenges, broke records, and found purpose in lifting. He emphasizes the importance of self-belief, community support, and the mental health benefits of fitness. Jeremy also talks about his unique journey traveling across the United States in his truck, aiming to inspire others and create a positive impact in the community.
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42
Kelli Christensen:Navigating PA -School Against the Odds
In this conversation, Kelli shares her inspiring journey towards becoming a Physician Assistant (PA). She discusses her educational background, the challenges she faced during her application process, and the importance of representation in healthcare. Kelli emphasizes the significance of teamwork, building patient relationships, and advocating for those with disabilities. Her story highlights the need for confidence and self-advocacy in pursuing one's dreams, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way.
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41
Allie O’ Connell: Raising a Little You as a First-Time Mom
In this episode of A Little View, host Gwyn Drabek sits down with first-time mom Allie O’Connell for a heartwarming and honest conversation about motherhood from a little person’s perspective. They dive into the highs, the challenges, and the unexpected surprises of pregnancy and parenting, sharing laughs, lessons, and real talk along the way. Allie opens up about the importance of confidence, self-advocacy, and building a supportive community, while showing how love and resilience can guide any parent through the journey. This episode is full of inspiration, insight, and encouragement for new moms—and anyone curious about parenting in a world that doesn’t always make room for difference.
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40
Dr. Huser:Choosing What’s Best for You & Your Quality of Life
In this episode of A Little View, host Gwyn Drabek speaks with Dr. Aaron Huser, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon specializing in limb lengthening and deformity corrections for individuals with skeletal dysplasia. They discuss the importance of arm lengthening, the surgical procedure, recovery, and the emotional impact of such surgeries. Dr. Huser emphasizes the need for self-acceptance and the importance of making personal choices regarding surgeries, while also addressing the societal judgments that individuals may face. The conversation highlights the significance of improving quality of life through informed decisions and community support.The key takeaway in this episode: Is doing whats best for ones self. No matter who you loose in the process, this is your life no one else's.
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39
Danielle Cekanor: From Paralympian to Parenthood — The Power of Showing Up
In this episode of A Little View, host Gwyn Drabek interviews retired Paralympian Danielle Cekanor, who shares her inspiring journey from competitive swimming to starting a family. Danielle shares how she became a Paralympian and then her retirement. Why she did that? And the importance of her decision. Also, she discusses her relationship with her now husband how that evolved. They discuss the role of faith in Danielle's life, the challenges of transitioning from sports, and the importance of relationships. Danielle reflects on her experiences, the lessons learned, and her hopes for raising her child in a faith-based environment.
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38
Rising and Shining for My Patients
In this episode of A Little View, host Gwyn Drabek speaks with Dayle Federico, a passionate pediatric physical therapist. Dayle shares her journey to how she became a PT. She discusses the importance of building trust with families, creating individualized treatment plans, and the joy she finds in her work. Dayle also opens up about her recent transition to entrepreneurship, launching her own practice, Rise and Shine, and the challenges and rewards that come with it. The conversation emphasizes the significance of listening to oneself, overcoming fear, and the power of community support in pursuing one's dreams.
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37
Leading from the Front, with Every Stroke
Today we sit down with college athlete Emily Overholt. We discuss her college life, what she went to college for and what it takes being a college athlete. Then we discuss what her nutrition looks like + what her life looks like now post graduation
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36
No Place like Camp Ell-Ell-Bee
This weekend we sit down and do a recap of the camp I recently went to called CampEllEllBee. It was so fun and definitely more than just a regular camp
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35
The Value of Realness with the Jewelry Man
David Walker joins me to share how he rebuilt a 90-year family business, stayed grounded through uncertainty, and found purpose beyond work. We talk social media, balance, authenticity, and what it means to show up as a real human.
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34
Your Worth Isnt Measured in Pounds
This week, I’m sitting down with a guest I’ve been wanting on the podcast for a long time someone whose work and mission align so closely with what A Little View stands for.I’m so honored to welcome Dietitian Laura, a Registered Dietitian who specializes in eating disorders. As many of you know, this topic is deeply personal to me, so having someone who truly understands the complexities and emotions behind it means so much.Laura shares her journey to becoming a dietitian the moments and experiences that led her into this specialty, and the gaps she saw in the healthcare system that inspired her to help people who often feel misunderstood or overlooked.We also dive into something incredibly important: what needs to change in our society and the medical field when it comes to how people are viewed based on their weight. Laura talks about weight stigma, the harm it causes, and why health can never be determined by appearance alone. Everyone deserves to be cared for without assumptions being made about their worth or their health.Because the truth is… your weight is the least interesting and least defining thing about you and it’s time the world starts acting like it.
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33
Moment with Gwyn: You are Enough
This episode is a reminder that you don’t have to overcompensate or constantly prove yourself to be enough. I share a personal story from my week — a moment in class that left me doubting myself — and how it brought up old feelings of comparison and pressure. I also reflect on how being a little person has shaped that need to “prove” my worth, and how I’m learning to let that go.If you’ve ever felt like you need to do more to deserve love, respect, or belonging, this episode is your reminder that you already are enough — right here, right now.
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32
Little Legs, Big Heart and Endless Love
This week is another solo episode where Gwyneth sits done and discusses her weekend at the LLBH convention and what it truly meant for her
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31
The Yes That Made Me Mom
In this heartfelt episode, Gwyn sits down with Megan, an adoptive mom from Ontario, to share the beautiful story of how she became a mother to her son Lincoln — a little boy with achondroplasia. Megan opens up about the adoption process, the moment she learned about Lincoln’s diagnosis, and how their journey has been filled with love, growth, and learning. Together, they talk about breaking stereotypes, navigating the medical system, and celebrating the joy and determination that make Lincoln so special.
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30
Mental Health and Whats Left Unsaid
This week we sit down and talk to Dr. Legare all things mental health
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29
When Love is Stronger, Distance Means Nothing
In this episode, we sit down with Brooke Swan to hear her beautiful love story and how she met her now husband, Mark. 💕Brooke opens up about navigating long-distance , the good, the hard, and everything in between. Even when others doubted their relationship, she trusted her gut and knew she couldn’t imagine life without him.From months apart and countless FaceTime calls to finally packing up her life and moving , not just to a new state, but an entirely new country , Brooke’s story is a reminder that when love is strong enough, distance can’t stand in the way
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28
Enjoyment First, Then Results will Follow
In this episode of A Little View, I sit down with Sam, a personal trainer with achondroplasia. We talk about his five non-negotiables for fitness, how little people can adapt in the gym, and why consistency and enjoyment matter more than perfection.
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27
When Faith Meets Mental Health
In this episode, Dacey Triplett joins me to talk about faith, confidence, and finding a true personal relationship with Christ beyond just “going through the motions.” We dive into mental health, identity, and trusting God’s purpose, with encouragement to lean on prayer, scripture, and community in every season.
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26
How Comparison Impacts Mental Health
Gwyn opens up about the comparison trap how measuring ourselves against others can intensify feelings of depression, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts. As part of Suicide Awareness Month, she shares her own experiences with comparison spirals, practical ways to shift perspective, and gentle reminders that everyone’s timeline looks different. This episode also highlights the importance of self-compassion, gratitude, and recognizing your own progress. Whether you’ve struggled with comparison or know someone who has, this conversation offers validation, hope, and tools for moving forward.Trigger warning: this episode includes discussion of suicide and suicidal ideation. If you are in the U.S., dial or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For international support, visit findahelpline.com.
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25
When Darkness Meets Light
Today we sit down with Jeremy. He shares his story. He shares his journey growing up as the only little person in his school, facing bullying, depression, and feeling deeply misunderstood. At 20, he reached his lowest point and attempted suicide — but through therapy, faith, and the support of his parents, he began the slow work of healing. Now, as a husband and father of two daughters, Jeremy reflects on the life he once thought he didn’t deserve. His story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, we are worthy of love, hope, and purpose.
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24
The Hardest Battle was Inside Me
In this powerful solo episode of A Little View, Gwyn opens up about her deeply personal journey with mental health, eating disorders, and the hidden weight of feeling different as a little person. She reflects on pivotal moments—from the pain of school dances, to the dangerous spiral of her eating disorder, to the wake-up calls that came with hospitalization and multiple surgeries.With honesty and vulnerability, Gwyn shares how isolation, comparison, and stigma shaped her struggles, and why Suicide Awareness Month carries such importance for her. She highlights the often overlooked connection between disability and mental health challenges, while reminding listeners that they are never alone in their battles.This episode sets the stage for a month of raw and empowering conversations on survival, resilience, and hope.
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23
Owning the Role. Owning the Stage.
Today we sit down with the one and only Nic Novicki. He is 4 in 1 type of guy haha.. a comedian, writer, actor and advocate. Nic is paving the way for new disabled people in the media industry by creating the Easter Seals Disability Film Challenge. He also tells us what inspired him to become a comedian and whats his why behind everything.
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22
The Doctor Behind Voxogo
Today we sit down with the lead researcher Dr.Ravi who was the lead researcher in Voxogo, while BioMarin created it, he is the one who did the trials with familes. We discuss the misconceptions of the drug and how people view the drug.
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21
Teaching More Than the ABCs
In this episode, Gwyn sits down with kindergarten teacher Emmy Brown to discuss the joys and challenges of teaching as a little person. Emmy shares her journey into education, the importance of fostering inclusivity from a young age, and how she teaches more than just academics — from social skills to resilience. She opens up about navigating perceptions from students and parents, balancing authority with fun, and the deep emotional connections she builds with her students. Through heartwarming and eye-opening stories, Emmy shows how representation in the classroom can shape how children view leadership, empathy, and differences.
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20
Too Different to Belong with Peet Montzingo
Today we sit down with Peet Montzingo and if you’ve been on TikTok or YouTube, you’ve probably seen him making videos by himself or with his mom. But Peet is so much more than that. He’s an advocate, artist, creator, and a voice for people who often feel left out of the conversation.In this episode, Peet opens up about what it was like growing up as the only average-height person in a little people family, navigating life with undiagnosed ADHD, and constantly feeling like he didn’t belong — until he found purpose in using his voice to speak up and create change.This conversation is a reminder that no matter how someone presents online — we’re all carrying something. And it’s in those stories, the real ones, that we find connection and healing.
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19
More than a Medal: Morgan Rays Journey
Paralympic swimmer Morgan Ray shares his journey from learning to swim as a kid with achondroplasia to winning silver medals on the world stage. He opens up about the physical and mental challenges of elite training, the lack of financial support in Paralympic sports, and how faith and family keep him grounded.Morgan and Gwyn dive into the importance of nutrition and health in the little people community, emphasizing how fueling your body well supports long-term strength and confidence. He also reflects on the impact of being a role model for younger LPs—and how it’s not just about medals, but showing others what’s possible.
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18
Becoming the Barbie I needed
In this episode, Gwyn chats with Jillian Curwin, host of Always Looking Up. Jill reflects on how she had to be her own Barbie because mainstream culture never offered one for little people like her. From the struggle of finding a prom dress to dressing as a Disney princess and Barbie herself to celebrate Dwarfism Awareness Month, Jill illustrates the emotional labor of claiming space when the world wasn’t made for you. This conversation is a bold reminder: representation matters—and sometimes you just have to create it.
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17
When Healing Meets Creativity
In this episode, I sit down with art therapist and fellow little person Bri Beck to talk about the emotional side of disability that often gets overlooked. From identity and internalized shame to the power of grief, art, and community—we explore what it means to truly heal and live life for yourself, not the world watching.
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16
My Legs and My Choice
Today we sit down with Chandler Crews, she talks about her decision to lengthening and what made her choose it, and even though she had haters she said F the haters. She has started a nonprofit called Chandler foundation, she discusses what made her have her nonprofit and what its all about
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15
Faith Over Fear: A Mothers Journey
Today we sit down with Julia and talk about a real honest raw conversation. Something that no parent should ever have to go through. Julia shares her experience with her son getting diagnosed with DD and her challenges but also how she relied on god in all of it. Julia makes sure her sons name will never be forgotten no matter what.
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14
Zach's First Rule: The Players First
Today we sit down with Zach Roloff who has grown up in DAAA and his journey through DAAA and what he has for plans in the future, as become the new DAAA president.What his plans are in the future and what he wants every athlete to have an opportuntiy and they always come first.
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13
Food is Fuel Even for a 4 Foot Frame
Today we sit down with Nora, she does medical sales but also helps people with Nutrition on the side. She sees the importance of what food does to our bodies and how eating the right foods can fuel you properly. She opens up about misconceptions but also her past experience with food disorder/ misconception.
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12
Love Without Limits: A Father-Daughter Bond Beyond Size
Today in honor of Fathers Day we sit down with Michael Drabek Gwyneths Father and talk about more of him raising Gwyneth
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11
Her Pain was Heavy. Her Purpose was Heavier.
Today we sit down with Becky Curran, who is a public speaker, a mom, advocate and a survivor. Becky shares her childhood growing up with achondroplastic dwarfism, navigating health challenges, social exclusion, and discovering resilience. She opens up about her challenges these past couple years but also has made it clear she isnt giving up. She is not going to let the world tear her down no matter what comes her way. She is a true testimony and inspiration of someone who is resilient
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10
They Told Me to Be Afraid. She Taught Me to Be Brave
This week on A Little View, we sit down with Kate—a first-time, average-height mom—who opens up about the emotional journey of learning her daughter was born with dwarfism.Kate shares: The moment the doctor told her The challenges she faced navigating the unknown Why she doesn’t want to change her daughter—but wants to change how the world responds to difference The gaps in the medical system when it comes to dwarfismAnd most of all, the unconditional love she has for her daughterThis is a powerful and emotional conversation about motherhood, advocacy, and raising a child to believe she can do anything she sets her mind to.🎧 Tune in and let Kate’s story remind you what it means to truly see and support someone for who they are.
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9
Healing Honesty and Hard Truths
Todays Episode we sit down with Coach Ang. We discuss how she manages being a single mom + a business owner. She tells us the life of a business owner (the good and the ugly). Then later she discusses the challenges she has faced along the way and how she has learned from them.
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8
Seeing the Person, Not the Diagnosis
On today’s episode, we sit down with the one and only Dr. Feldman — a true legend in the world of orthopedic surgery. Known not just for his skill in the operating room, but for the deep care and advocacy he provides for his patients, especially those in the Skeletal Dysplasia community. We talk about his work, the mission behind it, and what makes his approach so different. Then, we wrap up the episode by getting to know Dr. Feldman beyond the scrubs — the heart, the perspective, and the person behind the title. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss
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7
Being Different isnt the issue, judgement is
In today’s episode of A Little View, we sit down with a courageous and compassionate mom who shares her journey raising a son with Apert Syndrome—a rare genetic condition that affects the shape of the skull, face, hands, and feet.This conversation is raw, real, and emotional. She opens up about the beauty of her son’s spirit and the unconditional love she has for him, but also the heartbreaking moments when strangers stare, make comments, or treat him differently simply because of how he looks.She speaks candidly about the challenges of navigating a world that often judges people by their appearance, and her deep wish that others would take the time to really see her son for who he is—a funny, smart, kind, and beautiful soul who has so much to offer
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6
Breaking Barriers in Medicine
Today on A Little View, we sit down with Ruth Buck, a passionate student of Naturopathic Medicine at Bastyr University in Washington.We dive into what it's like studying at one of the top holistic health schools in the country, what inspired Ruth’s journey, and the empowering perspective she brings to healing and wellness. 🌿Ruth shares what she wishes more people understood about health, and we chat about how true healing goes beyond just the physical.Tune in for a refreshing and inspiring conversation about naturopathic medicine, whole-person care, and finding your path in health. 💛
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5
When your community doesnt accept you
On this episode of A Little View we sit down with Kristen DeAndrade who is the founder of Little Legs Big Heart, she discusses what exactly is the foundation and what made her start the foundation. Then we go into discussing how she feels after a life challenging decision to enhance the quality of her life, made her feel estranged from her own community
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4
Fuel that Heals
This is a Solo episode with just Gwyn today. Talking about her struggles and how she has grown from struggling with food and seeing food as the enemy to how it has healing properties now. Gwyn talks about her biggest staples with food and what it does for you.
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3
Not Your Mascot with Shelby
This week we sit down with Shelby Holloway, who is making big stride in the lpa community but also in the disability community has a whole. We talk about her campaign she has and the future of what is coming with the campaign. Shelby and the whole team at Mascot Matters are doing powerful things to make a bigger difference
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2
The Power of Perspective: Introducing A Little View
In this very first episode, host Gwyneth Drabek introduces A Little View, a podcast created from the unique perspective of being a little person—but made for everyone. Gwyn shares her story, why she started the podcast, and what listeners can expect from future episodes. From navigating surgeries and body image to food freedom, relationships, and living in a world not always built for you, A Little View is a space where real, raw, and empowering conversations happen.Whether you’re a little person or just someone looking to feel more seen and supported in your wellness journey, you’re welcome here. So grab your favorite snack and tune in—you’re officially invited to see the world through A Little View.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
A Little View is a podcast that provides a unique perspective on health, wellness, and life from the viewpoint of a little person.The podcast dives into the challenges, triumphs, and everyday experiences that come with being a little person in a world built for taller individuals.While the focus is on the little person community, A Little View is for everyone—whether you’re a little person or not. The podcast is a space where listeners can feel seen, supported, and empowered through real conversations about everything
HOSTED BY
gwyndrabek
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