Iconically Ill

We talk Congenital Muscular Dystrophy with Kelly Berger and Avery Roberts Kelly and Avery are dynamic, empowered, rare disease warriors and disability champions who share their stories, spark conversations, and build a world that listens and activates real change. Their spirited advocacy is bold, personal, and impossible to ignore. They both live with the ultra-rare form of congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD), Collagen 6. They've turned their lived experiences into powerful platforms for global change. The fierce changemakers are driving visibility, authentic representation, and access, championing the next generation for a brighter, more inclusive future. Their podcast, Wheel Talk gives a front row seat to bold conversations about the thriving disability community. The show amplifies voices, breaks down barriers, and celebrates the power of disability identity. It's where wit, wisdom, and wheels are all part of the party. Follow Kelly at @thekellyberger and Avery at @Avery.nicole916 and their podcast at @thewheeltalkpodcast on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and screenwriting with Caitlin Rose Arcand. Caitlin is an award-winning screenwriter, producer and script exec. Her directorial debut feature, "Burn Baby Burn" (the chaotic gay mob movie), is currently in development after winning Best Feature Screenplay at Hollywood International Diversity, Best Feature Dialogue at Flight Deck Film Festival and Outstanding Achievement for a Feature Screenplay at the Massachusetts Independent Film Festival. She recently wrapped her directorial debut short "Starlyfe," to be released this spring. Previously, she produced the two award-winning queer short films, "Happy Hour" and "Oreo," in addition to working in production for Netflix, Luminant Media and Dirty Water Media. As a comedian and writer, Caitlin specializes in "the worst people you know," bringing to life all the unsavory characters that the East Coast has to offer. Her candid stories have been heard on stages all over the country, notably appearing at The North Carolina Comedy Festival, Solocom NYC, and The Portland Comedy Festival. In 2021, she was named one of CitiBank and Buzzfeed's Women to Watch for her women/LGBTQ+ centered humor platform, inspired by two sold-out years of Boston's only all-female comedy show, which she founded and hosted. Caitlin works in film and TV as a marketing & screenwriting executive through her company Arcand Entertainment & Creative.  Follow Caitlin @caitlinrosearcand on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We Talk Rheumatoid Arthritis with Jennifer Chassman Browne.  Jennifer has been an educator for over 25 years, and has experience working with students ranging from 3rd grade through the university level. Most of her work has been as an English, Creative Writing , and Social Studies teacher and a school leader. The majority of her leadership experience has been at the secondary level as an Assistant Principal, Associate Head, or Curriculum Director, where she has been focused on directing curricular programs and supporting teachers in developing instructional practices.  Jenn has lived with Rheumatoid Arthritis since she was six years old and has recently founded a non-profit aimed at developing education and understanding around issues related to ability and advocacy for those living with disabilities. More Than a T-Shirt Company is a project that develops and sells t-shirts and stickers with disability positive messages. The company donates proceeds to partner organizations including the Arthritis Foundation and Autism Speaks. Five years ago, Jenn founded New Ground Educational Consulting​. Her focus has been to develop and present workshops related to Inclusion and Belonging. She leads sessions on topics such as: Social Justice and Physical Space, Identity and Belonging, Implicit Bias, and The Weight of Disability for a variety of public and independent schools, non-profit organizations, and professional institutions. Jenn has been a featured guest on Pushing Limits, one of the only public radio shows focused on disability, and has also contributed columns to a variety of publications. Most recently, Jenn was the keynote speaker for the Pacific ADA Center's annual conference where she presented a session entitled, Beginning with Belonging; Reimagining the ADA. She has recently published a collection of poetry that includes pieces about living with a disability. Currently, Jenn is completing her book, See Us, Know US: Profiles of Disability which is a collection of profiles about people with disabilities. Each profile includes a portrait, a narrative biography, and an original poem written by Jenn for the person being profiled. Look for See Us, Know Us, which will be published in October. You can follow Jenn at @jenniferchassmanbrowne on Instagram. Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk endometriosis and writing with Samara Breger. Samara is a writer and performer from Sleepy Hollow, New York. Her vampire Gothic, A LONG TIME DEAD, was named "the best Sapphic vampire book since...Carmilla" by the New York Times, as well as one of the best romances of 2023. She regularly performs musical improv in New York as well as around the country at comedy festivals. She lives in a little house with her wife and dog, both of whom are big fans of her work. Follow Samara at @yesjbreg on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS) with Jay Trivedi. Jay is a 34 year old individual diagnosed at birth with an invisible disability known as Congenital Central Hypoventilation Syndrome (CCHS). This disability is very rare and it involves a genetic mutation impacting the respiratory system. There are approximately 2000 cases of diagnosis worldwide. Patients diagnosed require mechanical ventilation during sleep. However, some patients require mechanical ventilation 24/7. Each patient's diagnosis is different. Some other symptoms of the diagnosis can include poor eyesight, poor temperature controls, and cognitive delays in young children. Most patients with CCHS can live full and healthy lives. They can achieve an education, build a successful career in the job market, and have families. Although there is no cure for CCHS and very little research is being done, CCHS Family Network and The CCHS Foundation are working together to continue raising funds and encourage friends/family to donate so the money can help go towards research and education.   Although Jay has been living with this extremely rare and invisible diagnosis, it has never stopped him from achieving his two main goals, which are achieving an educational degree in Business Administration and gaining work experience needed to become successful in today's job market. Currently, he works full-time at one of the biggest retailers, Walmart. Jay is a volunteer advocate and member of two well-known disability organizations called The CCHS Foundation and Diversability Leadership Collective (DLC).  On a professional level, Jay is heavily active on LinkedIn where he networks with individuals who can resonate with his life experiences.  Follow Jay at jt.trivedi on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk bone tumor with Rachel Kenaston. Rachel is an actor, comedian, artist and filmmaker. She earned a BFA in Theatre from Marshall University and studied at Upright Citizens Brigade, the Squirrel and Magnet Theater. She can be found performing and photographing improv, sketch & standup comedy around NYC or working at House of Yes as Artist Liaison. Rachel is a founding member of Maxipad Productions, Flower Power Comedy, and the sketch team, Pitchfork Patty.  Follow Rachel @rachelkenaston on IG/tiktok and rachelkenaston.com for her latest film & comedy projects  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk OCD and live performing with Steve Whyte. Steve Whyte thought he had it all figured out until he left the womb. He was Elf #2 in the Old Greenwich Elementary School production of Twas The Night Before Christmas. Later, lured by the prospect of big money, Steve joined the improv world, and can be seen performing with The Armando Diaz Experience on Saturdays at 7:30 at the Magnet Theater in Chelsea. For money he edits video, and for fun he plays the drums. Follow Steve @steveinnyc on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Functional Neurological Disorder with Nieta Greene. Nieta Greene, a dedicated advocate for inclusivity and a sense of belonging, serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Disability Community for Democracy, Inc. She also serves as a member of the Cambridge Commission for Persons with Disabilities. She has experienced various disabilities since childhood that influence her daily existence. Yet, she remains resilient and proud as a Disabled Puerto Rican, Black, gender non-conforming, gay woman who openly champions her identity. Nieta's work is rooted in core principles of disability justice, emphasizing intersectionality, community-led solutions, and political empowerment. Her steadfast confidence precludes the need for her to apologize for her authentic self, as she diligently advocates for those unable to voice their concerns. Her inspiring determination motivated her to establish Disability Community for Democracy, Inc., following the 2024 election cycle, recognizing the need to safeguard the rights of individuals within the disability community and to provide a platform for political engagement grounded in intersectional disability justice. Her leadership exemplifies a commitment to transforming systemic barriers into opportunities for collective liberation and equity. Follow Nieta at @DCDinc12 on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Cerebral palsy and journalism with Erin Tatum. Erin is a Journalist, Copywriter, Project Manager and Entertainment Liaison.  As a multidisciplinary journalist, she gravitates towards stories that illuminate an artist's perspective and highlight the unsung protagonists of the world around us. She is particularly invested in elevating subjects from marginalized communities and amplifying impactful social issues. She is passionate about spreading awareness for disability through laughter and sarcasm. Follow Erin at allegedly_erin on Instagram and TikTok. After this recording Erin's beloved mother passed away. We dedicate and honor her in this episode. Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We Talk ME/CFS and live performing with Dan Fishback. Dan Fishback is a playwright and musician in NYC, with a two-decade body of work exploring the shadows of Jewish and queer life in the United States. His musical about Jewish socialists, The Material World, was called "the best downtown musical in years" by Time Out New York in 2012. From 2013 through 2020, Fishback ran The Helix Queer Performance Network--a series of programs designed to bring queer generations together and redress inequities in the world of queer arts and culture. In recent years, as Fishback has struggled with myalgic encephalomyelitis (also known as chronic fatigue syndrome or ME/CFS), he has reoriented his artistic practice towards disability justice, with the rock musical Dan Fishback is Alive, Unwell & Living in His Apartment, which was commissioned by Joe's Pub at the Public Theater in 2024. Fishback is a member of Jewish Voice for Peace, and sits on the Joe's Pub Council. Follow Dan @dangerfishback on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk eczema with Farshad Khansari. Farshad Khansari is a fully vaccinated comedian, sketch performer and clown, based in New York by way of New Jersey. So really, he's based in New Jersey. He thought he wanted to be a doctor due to immigrant parental expectations, but was so disappointed with how our healthcare is run in America that he decided to become a clown instead. You can find Farshad performing around New York City in spaces like UCB, Caveat, Second City, and many a small venue. Sometimes you can find him on Twitch @falukun meming on himself while playing a game. You can also find him leading food tours in Chinatown on the weekends! There are so many ways to find him!! Follow Farshad @farshadkhansari on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Dwarfism with Jillian Curwin. Jillian is a writer, content creator, and advocate for dwarfism and disability awareness based in New York City. She has written for Culxtured and has collaborated with Betches Media and FEMINIST to discuss disability representation in fashion, sports, and entertainment along with highlighting current events in the disability space. In addition she has consulted with brands and organizations in the fashion and fitness spaces about accessibility and inclusion. She is the host of the podcast Always Looking Up where she talks to people about living in a world that was not necessarily designed for them and how they are changing it. Follow Jillian @jill_ilana on instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Hyperthyroidism with Molly LaFlesh.  Molly is a writer, performer, and producer based in New York. You can find her work on the Internet and on stages across New York, most recently as part of Boogiemanja Sketch Collective, where she is a board member, as well as Gold Comedy and many other projects.  Follow Molly at @mollylaflesh on Instagram and @peeppeepwhatsthatcheep on eBird Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Stevens-Johnson Syndrome with Shaz. Shaz is a Steven Johnson's survivor. She is 32 from South Africa born and raised. Shaz is a beauty teacher and wellness coach as she can no longer work as a beautician after having blurred vision from SJS . Follow Shaz at @Shaz_the_beautician on Tiktok, Instagram, and Youtube Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk right arm upper amputee with Melanie Waldman. As an advocate for disability rights and overall inclusion, Melanie's history & career include presenting her connection(s)—as a woman with both physical and non-apparent disabilities—to a wide range of audiences.  She's a 3-time Easterseals Disability Film Challenge Winner, an adaptive yoga teacher, professional speaker, and works as on-air talent in adaptive fashion at QVC. In 2025, she launched her podcast platform "Disability Reality Media", which she's taken to Sundance, Tribeca, and Reelabilities.  Artists she's interviewed include Gerard Butler, Steve Way, Rose Byrne, Marissa Bode, Jillian Mercado, and more!  While political advocacy was never on her intentional professional path, one of the highlights of the last year included working with the AAPD (American Association of People with Disabilities).  Melanie participated in the "Disability Power on the Hill Day", speaking on raising the income asset limit for people with disabilities (among many other proposed bills and topics).  Nothing means more to Melanie than her work, along with her community, as she truly connects with the notion that we are stronger together. Follow Melanie @whereswaldman on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk rare undiagnosed muscle disease with Danielle Connolly. Danielle Connolly is a disability advocate, content creator, speaker, and business and marketing professional. Born with a rare, still-undiagnosed muscle disease, Danielle has navigated unique life experiences that have shaped her passions and purpose. She shares her perspective through "Daniellevates," a platform dedicated to elevating conversations about disability, rare disease, and chronic illness with a mix of humor, storytelling, education, and real-life adventures featuring accessibility reviews. Follow Danielle @_daniellevates on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI    

We talk Covid and Ventilators with Ashley Estes. Ashley Estes is a COVID-19 survivor who was hospitalized early in the pandemic, an experience that permanently reshaped her understanding of fear, recovery, and resilience. During her illness and the long recovery that followed, she also experienced domestic violence, a reality that compounded the physical and emotional toll of being sick and isolated. Ashley speaks openly about her story to highlight the overlapping vulnerabilities that crises can expose and the strength it takes to survive them. Her journey reflects both the visible and invisible aftermath of COVID, as well as the courage required to heal from trauma that occurs behind closed doors. By sharing her experience, she hopes to help others feel less alone and to encourage empathy, awareness, and compassion. Follow Ashley at @letthem3atcake on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We Talk Cerebral Palsy and Drag Queens with Ron Hill. Ron is an editor/producer based in Los Angeles. Born with Cerebral Palsy and raised in a small New Hampshire town, his path to working with drag queens on the West Coast has been an unexpected but appreciated experience. Due to the fact that his disability goes largely unnoticed by his peers, he has only recently become comfortable identifying as disabled and raising awareness for his condition.   Follow Ron at @artofwot on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We're back January 6, 2026! See you there. 

We talk LGMD 2i and podcasting with Cerys Davage.  Cerys is a 24 year old podcaster and content creator from Cardiff, Wales. Through her podcast, 'Unbalanced', she has created a community of young disabled adults, showing them that they're not alone and that life can still be great regardless of any life barriers. She has Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy 2i, and discusses the reality of life with this condition whilst also raising awareness of other conditions through a range of interviews.  Follow Cerys at @cerysdavage and @unbalancedpodcast on instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Lyme Disease with Ilana. Ilana has been healing from Lyme Disease and its co-infections since 2016. Undiagnosed for nearly two years after the onset of symptoms, she explored nearly every medical, psychiatric, holistic, and even spiritual intervention available. Along the way, she became deeply engaged in the Lyme patient and provider community, founding a Facebook support group in 2022 that has since grown to nearly 1,600 members worldwide. A professor, writer, and business owner, she is slowly reclaiming a full and meaningful life. Deeply humbled by the experience of chronic illness, she is committed not only to her own healing, but also to empowering others as they navigate their own journeys. Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

Keisha is the Founder & CEO of Girls Chronically Rock, which is adaptive and non-adaptive clothing options with inspiring phrases on them. She is a Board Member at Disability Law Center and Chairperson of Cambridge Comission for Persons with Disabilities. She's also a public speaker and disability advocate.   Follow Keisha at @ownerofgirlschronicallyrock on Instagram. Show transcript: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-9ihAJfJUGlIYWD_KImPokkziG0PLMLx/view?usp=drive_link

We talk ME/CFS with Dani Hanks. Dani is a disabled writer/director based in New York City. As a kid, Dani grew up elbow-deep in human organs at their mom's pathology lab in Porterville, California. A direct result of inhaling too much formaldehyde in their formative years, they dove headfirst into the entertainment industry. After receiving their BFA in Drama at NYU Tisch, they directed the Banff-nominated comedy web series "Fake News Writer," which was optioned after winning the Webby Award for Video Entertainment in 2019. Most recently, Dani was named one of I.S.A.'s Top 25 Screenwriters to Watch in 2025 after winning the 2024 Austin Film Festival. Drawing from their experience as the only purple-haired snowflake in a deeply conservative family, Dani promotes empathy for underrepresented identities through offbeat stories centering diverse found families. They approach the taboo with both levity and nuance, and love finding humor in the mundane. Dani has worked on projects in development at FilmRise, RKO, and Josephson Entertainment, and is a fellow of Stowe, Disability Belongs, and the WGAE SSTP. They are a full-time meme connoisseur, part-time AD, former member of Mensa, and have 10 years of experience cutting animal tissue for medical research (much to the dismay of their pet rats). Follow Dani at @dani_hanks on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk partial blindness with Matthew Thomas. Matt is a British TV writer and children's author, based in LA. He won Best Drama Pilot in the 2018 Fresh Voices competition and Best One Hour in the 2021 Screencraft TV Pilot. You can see his work in the upcoming TV drama 'Joker's Downfall'.  Follow Matthew on X @mrmattthomas Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk dating while disabled with Jacqueline and Alexa Child Jacqueline and Alexa are sisters and founders of Dateability, the only dating app for disabled and chronically ill people. After becoming disabled as a teenager, Jacqueline experienced a great deal of ableism, particularly in the dating space. Together, Jacqueline and Alexa collaborated on creating a safe and inclusive platform for the world's largest minority. When they're not working together, they still spend all their time side by side, watching TV, checking out vintage shops, and grabbing coffee. Follow Jacqueline at @jacquelinechild Alexa at @alexabchild and Dateability at @dateabilityapp on instagram  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Fibromyalgia with Anna Hamilton. Anna is a writer and comedian based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their hobbies include watching bad movies with their partner, reading, and spending time with their very spoiled Yorkie mix, Sushi. Anna's essays have appeared in the Disability Visibility Project, Welcome to Hell World, and many other publications. They also publish a humor newsletter called Citizen Cane. You can learn more about their work via their website (annaham.net)  Follow Anna on Instagram at @annaham_stagram and Bluesky @annaham  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk acromegaly with Ellen Ko. Ellen Ko was diagnosed at age 26 with acromegaly due to a pituitary tumor. Acromegaly is a growth hormone condition which affects every aspect of the body - it causes changes inside and out, and both physical and mental. She underwent surgery and is on a medical regimen which has stabilized and controlled her hormone levels. Over two decades after her diagnosis, Ellen continues to be an active acromegaly community member and patient advocate. For patients or caregivers dealing with acromegaly, Ellen recommends visiting acromegalycommunity.org/ and reaching out to others for support. Despite her health condition, Ellen enjoys being involved in theater as an actor, artistic director, and professor. She lives with her husband and two chihuahuas in New York City. Follow Ellen at @ellenkogram on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia with Natalia Surin. In the spring of 2018, at the age of 21, Natalia was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) during her senior year at UMass Amherst studying hospitality & business management. Born and raised in Boston with only a couple months left until graduation, her life was turned upside down sending her down a grueling treatment plan. For the next 2+ years, cancer monopolized her life. Now at 28 years old, she's still somehow chronically a patient—but never a victim. With humor as her sidekick, Natalia cracks jokes about IV poles, getting probed, and everything in between, proving that even when life isn't funny, you can still laugh your way through it. Update: Natalia relapsed after this recording. She's currently in the middle of CAR T-Cell Therapy and is aiming to be back in remission by November 2025. Until then, consider this podcast her laugh track through treatment. Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Intestinal Autoimmune Disease with Katerina Vrana Katerina is one of Greece's top stand-up comedians, performing stand-up in both Greek and English all over the world, her shows selling out in Athens and London and at the Edinburgh Fringe and Melbourne International Comedy Festivals. CNN included her in its list of "Female Comedians To Watch" and in 2016 she came third in the Laugh Factory's international competition "Funniest Person in the World". In April 2017, while on tour in Malaysia, Katerina fell seriously ill and nearly died. Her survival came at the cost of multiple physical impairments and she now moves around mainly in a wheelchair. She got back on stage in 2019 with her solo show "Staying Alive (I nearly died, you know)" which became the best selling stand-up comedy show of the year in Greece, selling out the entire run before it even opened. Post Covid, Katerina was finally able to take "Staying Alive" on a European tour, in English, in 2023, selling out all 12 cities of the tour. Katerina has spent the last two years doing her new show "Derbederissa" to sold out theatres in Greece, recording two comedy specials, one in English and one in Greek, and going on another sold out European tour. Katerina spends most of her time between performing and rehabilitation, as she has difficulties with her balance, movement, eyesight, and speech.  Follow Katerina at @katerinavrana on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk limb differences Madeleine Stewart Disability advocate and award-winning comedian Madeleine Stewart charms audiences everywhere with a sweet demeanour, veiling razor-sharp wit. With over a decade of experience in standup comedy, you may have seen Madeleine perform with the likes of Adam Hills, Rove McManus, & Reuben Kaye. Creator of the viral video on Marriage Equality for ABC Iview (reaching 2.4mil views in 2 days) earned her the 2024 Story Teller Scholarship. Madeleine continues to work with ABC creating viral videos on employment, period care and various other disability issues… all with a healthy dose of humour. Practicing what she preaches, Madeleine won the Stella Young Award (2024) and the AMP Tomorrowmaker award (2019) for her advocacy and production of inclusive, accessible comedy shows- specifically Crips & Creeps. Her satirical short film 'Inspire Me' which explores inspiration porn, won Best Documentary at the Australian Independent Film Festival (AIFF). Currently, Madeleine is touring her comedy show "Are You Pulling my Leg?" across Australia- celebrating disabled comedians and heavily advocating for more accessible creative spaces.  Follow Maddy at @Its_madeleine_stewart on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk chronic illness with Bloom Davis. Bloom is an outdoor educator, facilitator, and artist with a passion for creating inclusive spaces that empower individuals and communities. As someone living with chronic health conditions, Bloom is dedicated to supporting others to get outdoors in ways that are accessible and meaningful. With experience as a backpacking guide in Yellowstone and a JMT and PCT thru-hiker, Bloom combines a love for natural spaces with a commitment to fostering connection, promoting health, and encouraging personal growth through outdoor adventures. You can follow Bloom on Patreon at @bloomsy  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk narcolepsy with Kathryn Dunn. Kathryn Dunn has been learning and teaching improv in and around New York for decades. She's studied at renowned New York theaters The People's Improv Theater (PIT), Upright Citizen's Brigade (UCB), and The Magnet. She has extensive training in various techniques for long form Improv, short form improv, musical improv, puppet-prov, sketch comedy, coaching improv, and teaching improv. She has taught a wide range of classes, led workshops, and taught date coaching applying improv to real life.  She has produced numerous shows including "Yes, Yes, Yes, And!," ''Moulin Rogue," "Satanic Bingo," "The Grass Route," and her podcast Dunn Sun.  Follow Kathryn at @Kathryn Dunn on Facebook and her weekly youtube channel The Kathryn Dunn Show  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk blindness with Dustin D'Addato. Dustin is an Emmy Award winning writer, director, producer and performer based in New York City.  Despite being legally blind he's been involved in some of the largest events in television and streaming history.   Follow Dustin at @ddaddato on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk breast cancer with Lauren Stripling. Lauren grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, where she was that girl who played the harp at your cousin's wedding. Colder climes called, and she got her B.A. in English from Yale before pursuing a Master's in Education while teaching English in the Bronx. She taught creative writing to thousands of students over a decade of work with Story Pirates and spent years singing as part of Musical Megawatt at the Magnet Theater. Now, Lauren is  a script editor by day and a doting Dog Mom to Cookie Dough by always.  radioactive playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3SGwJocxmtiDoQeUpYeMng?si=AlptM2lwTTu-vDuANKp3wA&pi=u-HBY4vjEtRLKo Follow Lauren at @striplingo on Instagram After this recording, Lauren's father passed away from cancer, we dedicate this episode to him. Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Deafness with Adam Pottle. Adam is a Deaf writer whose works span multiple genres. His books include the prairie gothic novel Apparitions, the dark fantasy musical The Black Drum, and the historical suspense novel The Bus. He was the 2021-22 writer in residence at Sheridan College and was a 2022 Warner Bros Discovery Access screenwriting fellow. He has a PhD in English literature and has taught English, creative writing, and professional communication for nearly twenty years. He lives in a small town just outside Saskatoon. Follow Adam at @adam.pottle on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk stroke with Sean Chang. Sean is a Brooklyn-based performer and writer originally from California. He is a young stroke survivor, having had a stroke when he was 22, that resulted in invisible disabilities, right sided weakness, and tremors. He started comedy as a way to find joy and make others laugh, and it's helped him better understand himself and his relationship with his disability. He currently performs on UCB's Lloyd Night and around the city with his improv team The Lake at Dawn in NYC. Follow Sean at @hahaitssean on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk stomach cancer with Madelein Murphy. With over a decade of experience and a dynamic stage presence, Madelein Murphy has conquered comedy stages around the globe. From headlining at prestigious colleges and comedy clubs to entertaining audiences on cruise ships, Madelein's hilarious performances have garnered international acclaim. Her debut album, "Belle of the Ball," soared to #1 on iTunes Comedy Charts!  She also sold a network adult animation pilot! Her second album and debut special, produced by Comedy Dynamics, will premiere in 2025. Follow Madelein at @Madeleinmurphy on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Spina Bifida with Jack Freeman. Jack was born with spina bifida, a neurological birth defect, and walks with a leg brace. This past year he's been touring a solo show called Embrace Me about dating with a disability. He's performed at the Edinburgh Fringe, IndyFringe, as well as theaters around the country. Jack has also played LaughFest, Plano Comedy Festival, Portland ME Comedy Festival.  Follow Jack at @Unrealjackfreeman on Instagram and his Podcast Thought Outhouse on Youtube Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk CIPD with Anna DiBlosi At 26, Anna DiBlosi experienced the sudden onset of an undiagnosed autoimmune disorder that completely turned her life upside down. She went from working full-time, having a social life and living her dream in Los Angeles, CA to being fully bed-bound and reliant on her family for care. For years, she was a "medical mystery," struggling to be heard by medical professionals and fighting for answers. She was eventually diagnosed with CIDP, a rare autoimmune disorder that targets the nerves. Her diagnosis allowed her to access the right medical treatment, but her life is still far from what it once was. She now spends her time focused on advocacy and community building. Through her social media channels, Anna raises awareness for invisible illnesses and shares her experience living with CIDP. She also hosts a monthly support group in Los Angeles called the Chronic Illness Support Club, offering a space for others navigating similar challenges to connect and find support. Follow Anna at @Anna_DiBlosi on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Mast cell activation syndrome with Katie Hutch. Katie Hutch is an NYC-based award-winning performer, writer and director. Hutch stars as Abe Lincoln in the Amazon Prime feature film Lincoln the Musical, a Hamilton parody mockumentary. She has been seen Off-Broadway in Frankenstein the Musical, Off Off-Broadway roles including Super Crazy Fun Times and Hungry, Hungry Games as well as winning Best Singer for NY SummerFest in the US premiere of A Word of Love. Hutch has been featured on resident house teams at major NYC comedy theaters including The PIT and The Tank and in dozens of film shorts including Mashable's Good Day, Deathstar and U Need to Know This. Hutch's original one-woman show, Allergic to Being Alive, journeys through the challenges and chuckles of living with chronic illness and invisible disability through stories and songs. She released an EP of the same name featuring catchy tracks from the show about everything from anxiety attacks to masturbation inspiring us all to find the laughs through the struggles of surviving. Allergic to Being Alive is streaming on all platforms.  Follow Katie and get an original song written just for you at @katiethehutch and @allergictobeingalive on Instagram  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk Stage IV Breast Cancer with Robin Browne. Robin Browne is a Brooklyn-based writer and artist. She's had cancer twice, and has been living with stage IV breast cancer since 2015. Robin has written a long-standing column for Amy Poehler's Smart Girls website called "What's my Stage Again." She's collaborated with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation on several awareness campaigns, and is on the education committee for The Pink Agenda. In her spare time, she enjoys illustrating, writing poetry, spending time with her cat, and watching Bravo.  Follow Robin at @robinmbrowne and @robinmbrowneart on Instagram, @robinmbrowne on Bluesky, and https://substack.com/@robinmbrowne on Substack    

We talk Lupus with Kristina Stasi. Kristina Stasi is a multiracial actress, singer, certified sound healer, and overall funny girl living in Los Angeles. She previously performed sketch, musical improv, and hip-hop improv at Magnet Theater and Peoples Improv Theater in NYC. She loves playing trivia and has been on numerous game shows including Cash Cab and $100,000 Pyramid. One day, she hopes to be a guest judge (and then secret contestant) on RuPaul's Drag Race.  Follow Kristina at @stasi.kristina on instagram  Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk jaw surgeries and Endometriosis with Shannon Krowicki. Shannon Krowicki is an actor, singer and comedian based in NYC. In her twenties, she had three major jaw surgeries that changed the course of her life and career. She now has titanium jaw joint prosthetics, fibromyalgia and Stage IV endometriosis that went undiagnosed for 25 years. When she's not suffering from her medical ailments, Shannon performs every Thursday night on Magnet Theater's musical improv house team, "Secret, Secret!" Her performance credits include off-Broadway and regional theater shows, local commercials and TV/Film productions, most notably Nickelodeon, The History Channel, Starz!, Amazon and Investigation Discovery. In her free time, she loves spending time with her husband-to-be, Jon, their dog, Wiley and listening to ghost and murder podcasts. Follow Shannon at @krowchickie on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk 5 auto-immune disorders with Dena Paduano. Dena Paduano is a radiant soul, born and raised in Orange County and Los Angeles, California. After years of pursuing her passion for acting, life took an unexpected turn when chronic pain and illness entered her story. Diagnosed with five advanced autoimmune diseases and enduring 34 surgeries, Dena faced immense challenges. But through it all, she started to develop her profound gift within herself—her intuition. Today, Dena is an intuitive coach and psychic, using her abilities to help others navigate their own struggles. Through psychometry and her deep empathetic connection, she taps into the emotional and physical pain others carry, guiding them to release it before it manifests into chronic conditions. Dena has a special heart for working with young people, helping them reframe their mindset and build a strong foundation to avoid the pitfalls of chronic pain and autoimmune issues. Her journey is one of transformation—mind, body, and spirit. It's about resilience, self-love, and the power of rewriting your narrative. Dena is living proof that even in the face of chronic illness, at 55 you can become "ionically un-ill" and thrive. Through her platforms, she shares daily inspiration, tools, and mindset shifts to help you navigate your own journey—whether it's chronic pain, depression, mental health challenges, or simply finding your way back to yourself. Dena offers psychic readings and intuitive coaching sessions, where she connects with you on a deep level to provide clarity, direction, and inspiration. Whether it's once or twice a month, her coaching helps you pivot, reframe, and conquer whatever stands in your way. Dena's mission is to help you see yourself not as a victim of your circumstances, but as the empowered creator of your life. To receive $50 off your first session with Dena you can use the special code offer Queen! Follow Dena at @Denapaduano on Instagram and Intuitive Coach Dena on YouTube, and TikTok Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk wheelchairs and acting with Shannon DeVido. Shannon DeVido is an actress seen on Difficult People, Cross on Prime Video and Lucky Hank on AMC+. She has won the Elliot Norton Award, BAFTA Breathrough Award, The VIacomCBS Showcase 2021 Award and Casting Society of America Top 20 Award Follow Shannon at @shannondevido on instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk ADHD with Kento Morita.  NYC-based actor & comedian Kento Morita has lit up stages at SketchFest Seattle, Toronto Sketchfest, SF Sketchfest & the Asian Comedy Festival. He starred as Shintaro Nakaoka in Rise of the Ronin, and appears in an upcoming Warner Bros Animation, as well as does improv for kids with The Story Pirates. He's also a one of the producers and creator of shows, Duty Free Live! and Cyberpunk Live With Kento. Follow Kento at @kento.nyc on Instagram and TikTok Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI  

We talk PMDD with Lauren Brickman.  Lauren Brickman is a NY-Based performer, creator, and educator. As a performer Lauren has been featured in such projects as FBI: Most Wanted, Ghost: Book of Power, Bull, Gloria Bell, and more! She performs monthly in the Pop-Culture Comedy show, We Stan Together, at the Upright Citizen's Brigade Theatre in NYC. When not living her artist life she can be found in academia! She's an adjunct lecturer for both City Tech and QCC in CUNY System as well as part of the Brooklyn College Future Ready/College Now support team. Somehow she's also the associate chair of liberal arts & sciences/Director of the Center of Excellence in Teaching & Learning at the NY Film Academy.  Follow Lauren at @LaurenABrickman on Instagram and check out WeStanTogether.com for updates Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Locked-In Syndrome with Jake Haendel.  Jake Haendel, the "miracle man," is the only documented person to survive stage four Acute Toxic Progressive Leukoencephalopathy, a rare brain disease that left him locked in. While he couldn't move, speak, or breathe on his own, Jake remained fully aware and retained all feeling in his body. His covert consciousness and eventual recovery have fascinated Boston's top medical doctors, who continue to study his case to better understand this disease and others like it. For the last four years, Jake has dedicated himself to his recovery while prioritizing helping others along the way. When he finally moved out of the hospital in 2020, he was met with a series of accessibility challenges. He quickly realized that "accessible" doesn't always mean truly accessible. Thinking back to the many patients he met during his years in the hospital, he saw an opportunity to improve the lives of millions navigating similar obstacles. Jake is the co-creator of Blink: The Jake Haendel Story and the inspiration behind Ahoi, a startup dedicated to making the world more accessible. Ahoi's app helps users find locations that best fit their accessibility needs—whatever they may be. Follow Jake at @miraclman31 and @blinkthepodcast on Instagram, Youtube, and TikTok Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Cerebral Palsy with Keha Brown.  Keah Brown is an award winning journalist, author, and screenwriter. Her work on disability, identity, and pop culture has appeared in Town & Country Magazine, Teen Vogue, Elle, The LA Times, Marie Claire UK, And The New York Times, among other publications. Her essay collection, The Pretty One, picture book, Sam's Super Seats and  young adult novel, The Secret Summer Promise are out now. Find out more at keahbrown.com Follow Keah at @keah_maria on Instagram and @keahbrown on Bluesky Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI

We talk Clubfoot with Virginia Dickens.  Virginia Dickens is a NY based comedian who has written for the Onion and Reductress. She has a podcast called Hyper Focus. Virgnia has a recurring show called marketplacelive in New York City. Follow Virginia @v_dcknz and her podcast Hyper Focus @hyperfocuscomedy on Instagram Show transcript bit.ly/3UKUymI