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Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey

"Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey is a deeply personal and educational podcast that explores the intersection of disability rights, personal growth, and societal change. Hosted by advocate and storyteller Dawn Olson, this podcast creates a space where vulnerability meets strength, where difficult conversations become opportunities for connection, and where listeners are invited to reimagine what's possible.Each episode weaves together Dawn's lived experiences with thoughtful reflection and practical insights to challenge perceptions, provide valuable knowledge, and inspire action.

  1. 27

    The Maze That Never Ends: What Fighting the System Actually Looks Like

    Last episode, I told you about the reality of living with cerebral palsy and trying to stay in my own home — the 30% gross income rule, the attorney I hired, and the hope that didn't pan out.This episode is the next chapter.This is what happens after the hope runs out and you keep fighting anyway.I'm pulling back the curtain on what navigating the Medicaid system actually looks like from the inside — the asset spend-down rules that forced me to spend $30,000 I wanted to save, the legal tool that should have been available to me but wasn't because of my age, and the real cost of fighting back that nobody puts in a policy document. Not just the money. The energy. The emotional toll. The depression and despair that come from doing everything right and still feeling like you're losing.I also talk about what freedom really means when you live with a disability — and why the nursing home isn't just a financial question for me. It's a question of identity, dignity, and everything I have spent my life fighting to protect.Because my life started in an institution. And I have spent every year since making sure it doesn't end in one.This isn't just my story. It's a window into what millions of people with disabilities and their families are navigating right now — quietly, exhaustedly, and mostly alone.But not anymore.If you are a parent, a sibling, a friend, or a neighbor of someone living with a disability — this episode is for you too. Because awareness without action is just a ribbon. And it's time to act.I need your help. I cannot do this alone. Listen, share, and reach out — because every voice added to this fight makes the sound harder to ignore.📧 [email protected]

  2. 26

    Aging, Independence, and the System That Fails Us

    This isn’t about awareness anymore.Last month, we talked about why visibility matters. Why speaking up matters. Why making noise matters. And I meant all of that. But this episode is about what comes after that. Because awareness without action doesn’t change anything.This is the reality behind the ribbon.In this episode, I’m walking you through what it actually costs to live independently as you age with a disability. Not just financially, but emotionally and personally. What it means to rely on a system that makes it harder, not easier, to stay in your own home. What it feels like to do everything right and still end up back at square one.I’m sharing what’s happening in my life right now—navigating Medicaid, losing support after 65, facing decisions that no one should have to make. Decisions between independence and survival. Between staying in your home or being pushed into a system that was never built with you in mind.This is not a polished story. This is the real one.And I’m not sharing this for sympathy. I’m sharing it because something has to change. And change doesn’t happen quietly.If this resonates with you, don’t just listen—share it. Start the conversation. Ask the questions.Because we deserve more than awareness.We deserve to live on our own terms.

  3. 25

    No One's "No" Is the Final Word: CP Awareness Month

    March was CP Awareness Month — and today I'm making sure it doesn't pass quietly. In this episode, I'm getting personal about what cerebral palsy truly means in my daily life: the spasticity that takes over my whole body, the learning disabilities nobody sees, and a story involving 911, a locksmith, and my bare behind that I've never forgotten. I'm also celebrating three things I was told I'd never do — drive, wear contacts, and graduate college. I did all three. This episode is for anyone who has ever been underestimated.

  4. 24

    Women’s Month: The Power of Being Seen

    Sometimes the most powerful thing someone can do is simply see potential in you—and say it out loud.In this deeply personal episode of Unfiltered Resilience, Dawn reflects on the women who didn’t just influence her life, but truly shaped it. In honor of International Women’s Month, she shares the story of Dr. Carlson—a woman who quietly defied every expectation placed on her—and the lasting impact of one simple but life-changing reframe: not stubborn, but determined.This episode isn’t about loud victories or polished moments. It’s about the kind of resilience that shows up quietly, over and over again. The kind built by people who believe in us before we’re ready to believe in ourselves.Dawn also opens up about her experience within the Relief Society, where she found belonging, leadership, and the courage to speak up—not just for herself, but for others who couldn’t. From advocating for inclusion to navigating moments of dismissal in everyday life, she shares what it really looks like to live with both strength and vulnerability as a woman with a disability.This is a conversation about being seen, about using your voice, and about honoring the women who came before us by continuing to move forward—determined.If you’ve ever felt overlooked, underestimated, or unheard, this episode is for you.

  5. 23

    Blizzards, Blocked Curb Cuts, and Caramel Rolls: My Winter Survival Guide

    Winter in North Dakota isn't just cold. It's 30 below, blizzards every weekend, and windows buried under snow kind of cold. In this episode, I'm getting real about what winter actually looks like when you navigate the world in a power wheelchair. Blocked curb cuts, caregiver worries, a patio door frozen completely shut, and a cat who blames me personally for all of it. I'm sharing what's gotten me through the hard seasons, what I learned from a particularly brutal blizzard year, and why making caramel rolls for my neighbors might be one of the best coping strategies I've accidentally stumbled onto. No perfect solutions here. Just honest conversation about survival, slowing down, and finding something warm to hold onto when you're stuck inside.Got your own winter survival story? A coping strategy I didn't mention? I really want to hear it. Reach out and let's keep this conversation going. You can find me at [email protected]. And if this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who gets it or someone who needs to. New episodes drop regularly, so subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss one.

  6. 22

    The Power of Being Understood

    Last time, we talked about grief — not just from death, but from all kinds of loss.Today, I want to talk about what helped me carry it.For most of my life, I didn’t even know that what I was carrying had a name. I thought I was too emotional. Too much. The problem. I believed that if I had been better, quieter, less difficult… things would have been different.But they weren’t different because of me.In this episode, I share how moving into a nursing home brought back memories of being institutionalized as a child at the Ann Carlson School — and how that led me to a trauma group connected to the North Dakota Center for Prisons with Disabilities.I talk about what it was like to sit in a room with other adults who grew up in institutions because we had developmental disabilities. To hear a social worker explain what trauma actually is. To slowly connect the dots. To understand that being isolated for crying wasn’t because I was bad — it was because I was a child expressing normal human emotion.For decades, many of us believed we were the problem.We weren’t.In this conversation, I share how being given permission to feel changed everything. How understanding trauma reshaped the way I see grief. How finding language for what I lived through brought a kind of peace I didn’t know was possible.If you’ve ever carried something heavy without knowing what to call it…If you’ve ever been told — directly or indirectly — that your emotions were too much…If you’ve ever wondered whether what happened to you really “counts”…This episode is for you.You didn’t do anything wrong.And you don’t have to carry it alone.

  7. 21

    Learning to Live Honestly With Loss

    In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, Dawn Olson opens up about a kind of grief that often goes unnamed—and unvalidated.Not just the grief of losing people, but the grief of losing abilities, independence, privacy, spontaneity, identity, and versions of ourselves we once knew. Through deeply personal reflections—on caregiving, physical decline, anticipatory grief, and the quiet heartbreak of having to ask for help—Dawn shares what it means to mourn while still moving forward.This is an honest, unpolished conversation about living with cerebral palsy, navigating increasing dependence, and learning that healing doesn’t always mean acceptance. Sometimes it simply means learning how to live truthfully with loss.If you’ve ever felt sadness over changes in your body, your life, or your independence—or if you’re a caregiver walking alongside someone through these shifts—this episode is for you.Because some losses don’t end. They change shape. And giving ourselves permission to mourn may be one of the most human things we can do.

  8. 20

    Scared, Excited, and Still Showing Up: Setting the Tone for 2026

    As we step into 2026, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and fear, and I wanted to be honest about that with you.In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, I’m talking about what this new year is bringing up for me: setting boundaries, finding my voice, and learning how to take up space without apologising for it. I share some personal stories that shaped how I see myself, including moments where I’ve felt like I was “in the way,” and what it’s taking to unlearn that belief.We talk about family, independence, and how hard it can be to set boundaries with the people who love you most. I also share some of the goals I’m carrying into this year, from staying physically fit with a disability to continuing the work of advocacy while also learning how to advocate for myself.Finally, I open the door to where this podcast — and this community — might be heading in 2026. From conversations about employment, finances, and fitness, to hearing from parents, siblings, and others living alongside disability, this year is about going deeper, together.If Unfiltered Resilience is going to be a community, I want you to be part of shaping it. I’d love to hear what you want to talk about, what I’m missing, and what perspectives we need to explore.

  9. 19

    The Work Isn’t Finished : What I’ve Learned After 15 Years in the Classroom

    This week on Unfiltered Resilience, I’m reflecting on something I didn’t even realize until I sat down to prepare for this episode—I’ve been teaching a disability studies class for fifteen years.In this episode, I share what the class looks like, why perspective matters, and how we walk students through the full lifespan of disability—from history and education to employment, parenting, and end-of-life decisions. I talk about accommodations, why we all use them whether we realize it or not, and why disability is simply part of being human.I also share what teaching this class has taught me—about my parents, about my own diagnosis, and about the love and strength it took for my mother to raise me after hearing life-changing news at just twenty years old.We’ve come a long way, but the work isn’t finished. Advocacy is still necessary. Education still matters. And speaking up is still required.Whether I’m teaching in a classroom or talking through your earbuds, the mission is the same: living out loud, sharing real experiences, and helping build a world that works for everyone.The work continues—and I’m not going anywhere.

  10. 18

    The Year the Stuffing Failed — and Other Lessons on Gratitude

    In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, I take you with me through the Thanksgivings that shaped me — the ones spent at the Ann Carlson School, the few treasured trips home, the makeshift celebrations with chosen family, and the quiet holidays that look different as life and abilities change.These stories aren’t just about Thanksgiving. They’re about how all of us, disabled or not, learn to adapt — to new family dynamics, aging parents, limited energy, shifting abilities, and the emotional weight that holidays can carry.I share these moments not because they’re extraordinary, but because they’re relatable. Almost everyone has navigated holidays that didn’t go as planned, traditions that had to evolve, or unexpected feelings of loneliness after the celebrations end.In this episode, I talk about gratitude, frustration, bittersweet memories, and the small mindset shifts that can bring comfort when things don’t look like they used to. And if you’ve ever felt that post-holiday sadness, or had to reimagine what “holiday tradition” means in your own life, I hope you’ll hear a bit of your story in mine.You’re not alone.

  11. 17

    $900 a Month for Independence: The Math That Doesn’t Add Up

    Disability Awareness Month may have ended, but the reality behind the statistics hasn’t. In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, Dawn Olson goes deeper into why awareness alone will never be enough — because right now, she’s living the consequences of a system that wasn’t built to support disabled people as they age, work, or try to stay independent.Dawn shares her personal case study in real time: navigating soaring Medicaid client shares, the loss of Medicaid buy-in at 65, the fear of losing long-time care providers, and the emotional toll of being penalized for working. She breaks down how well-intentioned programs fall apart with age limits, outdated asset caps, and policies that punish earning instead of empowering independence.With honesty, vulnerability, and her signature clarity, Dawn walks us through the steps she’s taking — from exploring special needs trusts to leaning on faith — and reminds us why disability employment awareness must lead to real systemic change.If you’re facing similar barriers, you’re not alone. And if you’re not disabled, you’ll finally understand what those barriers look like from the inside. It’s time for action, not just awareness.

  12. 16

    What Happens After Awareness Month Ends

    “Awareness Isn’t Enough: What Disability Employment Really Looks Like”Disability Employment Awareness Month may be over, but the work isn’t.In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, Dawn Olson gets real about what “awareness” actually means—and why it’s not enough. From outdated laws to the fear of losing benefits, Dawn shares her own experiences navigating employment as a person with a disability and how the system still fails to make real inclusion possible.This isn’t about inspiration—it’s about action. Dawn breaks down the misconceptions employers still hold, the everyday barriers people with disabilities face, and why systemic change—not just celebration—is what’s truly needed.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes for someone with a disability to not just get a job, but keep it and thrive, this conversation will open your eyes.Let’s talk about real solutions, not just awareness.

  13. 15

    Not a Step Backward: Redefining Independence as We Age

    Welcome back to Unfiltered Resilience.Today, I want to talk about something universal yet rarely explored — aging, and what it means to age with a disability. For many of us, independence isn’t just a goal; it’s part of who we are. But as our bodies change, that definition begins to shift.In this episode, I reflect on how assistive devices — like walkers and wheelchairs — are often misunderstood as symbols of limitation, when in truth, they can be tools of freedom. I share stories from my own life, from my days at the Ann Carlson School to the quiet rebellions that shaped how I see mobility and independence today.We’ll explore what happens when parents, caregivers, and even we ourselves equate “doing it alone” with strength — and how letting go of that idea can actually open the door to more control, confidence, and peace.Aging isn’t a step backward. It’s a step toward wisdom, toward grace, and toward redefining what freedom looks like. Because real independence isn’t about doing everything on your own — it’s about knowing when to ask for help and having the courage to embrace change.If you have stories or reflections about aging with a disability, I’d love to hear from you. Write to me at [email protected].

  14. 14

    Diagnosis Day: What Families Feel but Rarely Say

    Welcome back to Unfiltered Resilience.Today’s episode is deeply personal — and yet, it’s one that many families will recognise. We’re talking about diagnosis day — that pivotal moment when a label is given, and everything you thought you knew about the future suddenly shifts.This episode was inspired by a classroom story from a parent — and by my own mother’s experience when she first learned about my disability. Through her voice, I discovered feelings and details I had never known before — the sadness, the guilt, the fierce love that carried us through.We’ll talk about:What families really go through on diagnosis dayHow hope and uncertainty can coexistThe quiet strength of parents learning to adaptWhy “never” is a word that deserves to be challengedAnd the beauty of seeing life not as a detour, but a different destinationWhether you’re a parent, a child, or simply someone learning to live in a changed world, this episode is about finding grace and resilience in unexpected places — and remembering that a diagnosis is not an ending, but a beginning.If you have questions, thoughts, or topic suggestions for future episodes, I’d love to hear from you. Email me at [email protected] or connect on Instagram at @unfilteredresiliencepodcast.Until next time, this is Unfiltered Resilience — where every story reminds us that difference isn’t a limitation, it’s another way of being whole.

  15. 13

    Workplace Rights & Realities: My Road Through Setbacks, Accommodation, and Resilience

    In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, I share the hard truths and unexpected lessons from my employment journey as a person with a disability. Starting with the stark reality that in 2024, only 22.7% of people with disabilities were employed compared to 65.5% without, I walk you through my own experiences navigating those numbers.From rejection after graduation to landing my first role with the U.S. Forest Service, from the highs of advancement at the IRS through the Schedule A Hiring Authority to the lows of being downgraded and let go, my path has been full of both setbacks and surprising breakthroughs.I reflect on the sting of humiliation, the relief of fair accommodations, and the dignity found in meaningful work. You’ll also hear how teaching Disability Studies and contributing to trauma-focused grants at the North Dakota Center for Persons with Disabilities brought me healing and purpose.This isn’t just a story about jobs—it’s a story about courage, persistence, and finding hope even when the system feels stacked against you. If you’re in the middle of a difficult season at work or searching for the right opportunity, I hope my story reminds you that your worth isn’t defined by rejection or quotas.I’d love to hear your own employment stories—victories, frustrations, or even the funny moments. Email me at [email protected], and your story might be just the encouragement someone else needs today.

  16. 12

    Leaps of Faith and Finding My Voice

    This episode is a milestone — Episode 10. Looking back over the journey so far, I can honestly say that telling my story hasn’t always been easy, but it has always been worth it. Each time I step out of my comfort zone, I can feel myself growing.In this episode, I reflect on what the past nine episodes have meant for me — from sharing about my early life and independence, to navigating healthcare and travel, to opening up about relationships and faith. Some parts were hard, some were scary, but each time I’ve told my story, I’ve felt healing and connection.Podcasting wasn’t my original plan — it felt terrifying at first, like jumping out of a plane with a parachute. But with the right support and a little courage, I’ve discovered the power of having a platform. Stories really do matter more than statistics, because they change hearts and minds.So today, I want to encourage you to tell your story too. Find your platform, step out of your comfort zone, and keep growing.If anything in this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment on Apple or Spotify, or email me at [email protected] next time — this is Unfiltered Resilience.

  17. 11

    Anchored in Faith: Questions, Doubts, and the Journey to Belief

    Faith can be fragile, but for me, it has always been my anchor. In this episode, I take you deeper into my personal faith journey—the doubts I carried as a young girl, the songs I sang in chapel, and the questions I never dared to ask out loud. I share the pivotal moments that led me to the missionaries, the struggle between honoring my parents and following my heart, and the life-changing decision I made at 18 to be baptized into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.Through prayers that seemed unanswered, family opposition, and moments of clarity that felt heaven-sent, I discovered what it means to hold onto faith even when life doesn’t unfold as planned. This is a story of seeking truth, wrestling with doubt, and finding strength in the promises of God.Until next time—keep asking, keep seeking, and hold on to what makes you stronger.

  18. 10

    Faith, Stubbornness, and a Little Bit of Grit

    In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, I’m taking you on a journey through the many “they said I couldn’t, so I did it anyway” moments of my life. From a stubborn fight for contact lenses, to the bumpy road of learning to drive, to barely scraping by in college but still walking away with my degree—every step taught me that determination isn’t about speed, it’s about never losing sight of the finish line.I share the detours, the flops, the little victories, and even the deeply personal decision that shaped my faith. My story isn’t everyone’s story—but maybe it will remind you that it’s okay to take the long way around… as long as you keep going.

  19. 9

    Loved, Not Managed: Dating, Family, and Friendship with a Disability

    This episode is one of the most personal and vulnerable I’ve ever recorded. Today, I open up about the complex and often painful experiences of navigating dating, friendships, and family dynamics while living with a disability.I share what it was like to date in high school, why online dating often left me feeling misunderstood, and how the message “I’ll take care of you”—though well-intentioned—never sat right with me. What I want, what many of us want, is to be loved for who we are, not seen as a burden or a project.I also talk candidly about my family—about sibling distance, the unspoken tension between caregiving and favouritism, and the moment I realised my sisters were more supportive than I ever gave them credit for. From Christmas in July traditions to weekend barriers caused by lack of accessible vans, I examine how environment—not just diagnosis—shapes disability.Finally, I highlight the friendships that have carried me through: the women who’ve become like sisters and shown up for me in some of my hardest moments. Their reflections on why our friendship works say more than I ever could.Topics Covered:What dating with a disability taught me about self-worthNavigating sibling resentment and family favouritismWhy accessible transportation changes everythingThe power of long-term, judgment-free friendshipsHow humour, honesty, and asking for what you need creates real connectionKey Message:You deserve to be loved — not managed, not pitied, not fixed. Just loved.Contact and Feedback:Have a story or reflection to share? I’d love to hear it. Reach out via my website or email, and don’t forget to subscribe to Unfiltered Resilience for more honest conversations about life, access, and identity.

  20. 8

    No Exceptions: Advocacy at 30,000 Feet

    In this episode, I share what happened during my recent trip to Washington, DC — a trip meant to present important research but marked by frustrating and painful travel experiences. From inaccessible seating to equipment failures, I break down what went wrong, what worked, and what needs to change.I walk through my experience of being transferred down a narrow airplane aisle, the challenges of being placed in row 27, and how bruised hips and delayed boarding were the result of poor planning and lack of accessibility. I also explain how I advocated for myself on the return flight and how that made all the difference.I share my personal advocacy approach: don’t ask — state. Say what you need clearly, directly, and respectfully. I also talk about the risks of renting mobility equipment and what happened when I ended up with a chair that didn’t meet my needs. Despite the setbacks, I highlight what worked in Washington — accessible metros, accessible cabs, and a community that made getting around possible.This episode is more than just a travel story. It’s a call to recognize how inaccessible systems block people with disabilities from professional, personal, and life-changing opportunities. I offer real-world strategies and practical takeaways for anyone navigating these same challenges.Topics Covered:Unsafe airline practices for wheelchair usersThe importance of proper seat assignmentsMy advocacy method for air travel and beyondThe risk of broken or inadequate rental chairsThe value of accessible public transportation and cabsThe need for structural changes like tie-down systems on planesKey Message:Traveling with a disability should not require this much sacrifice. When we speak up clearly and consistently, change becomes possible.Contact and Feedback:If you have a travel story, advice, or feedback, I’d like to hear from you. You can reach me through my website or email. Subscribe to Unfiltered Resilience for more conversations on access, dignity, and advocacy.

  21. 7

    Hiring and Navigating Life with a Personal Care Assistant (PCA)

    Hi everyone – welcome back. It’s Dawn here.This episode is especially close to my heart because today, I’m talking about something that has played a huge role in my daily life: Personal Care Assistants (PCAs). These are the amazing people who come into our homes and help us live with dignity, safety, and independence. But as important as they are, navigating this relationship can be complicated.In this episode, I walk you through the full journey of finding and hiring a PCA—starting with how to write a job description that really reflects your needs. We’ll talk about important questions to ask during interviews, the value of soft skills (like being able to hold a conversation!), and how to be clear and transparent about your expectations.I also open up about the difference between hiring independently versus working through an agency—what’s worked for me, what hasn’t, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. We’ll also get real about some of the emotional stuff: setting healthy boundaries, navigating friendship versus professionalism, and recognising PCA burnout before it affects your care.If you’re receiving care, providing it, or supporting someone who is, I hope this episode makes you feel seen. These relationships are never simple—but they’re incredibly important.In this episode, I talk about:How I would write a PCA job description and why every detail mattersThe pros and cons of hiring independently vs going through an agencySetting boundaries when lines between care and friendship start to blurWhat it’s like dealing with high turnover and having to retrain new carersSpotting signs of burnout in your PCA and having those tough conversationsWhether you're just starting to look for a PCA or you’ve had one for years, I hope my story helps you feel a little more prepared—and a little less alone.If this episode resonates with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future conversations like this.Until next time, take care.

  22. 6

    Navigating Healthcare When the System Works Against You

    In this episode of Unfiltered Resilience, I’m sharing some deeply personal — and frankly, frustrating — experiences navigating a healthcare system that often overlooks, delays, or outright dismisses the concerns of people with disabilities. From a shoulder injury ignored for years, to a gallbladder issue no one wanted to take seriously, I talk about what it took to finally get the care I needed. Spoiler alert: ableism shows up more than you think.I reflect on the subtle and not-so-subtle ways bias creeps into exam rooms, how it wears you down over time, and why self-advocacy — even when it’s exhausting — can’t be optional. This isn’t just about me. It’s about the very real barriers many of us face just trying to stay healthy.If you've ever had to fight just to be heard in a doctor’s office, this one’s for you.

  23. 5

    Redefining Independence: My Personal View on Living Fully with Disability

    In this episode, Dawn Olson reflects on what “independence” truly means for someone living with a disability. Speaking from her own lived experience, she acknowledges the complexities of the term—recognizing how different levels of support and ability shape what independence looks like from person to person.She shares candid moments from her life—from her 30s to now—highlighting how her routine, mindset, and support systems have evolved. Dawn also explores the challenge of accepting help while maintaining a sense of agency, especially as aging intersects with disability.Through stories, practical tools, and a nod to the Independent Living Movement led by Ed Roberts, Dawn offers listeners both encouragement and direction—especially for those navigating similar paths or supporting loved ones with disabilities.

  24. 4

    The Financial Reality of Disability

    In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, host Dawn Olson unpacks the financial challenges that come with living with a disability—what she calls the “disability tax.” From hidden costs like time and transportation to overwhelming medical expenses and restrictive government program rules, Dawn shares how these realities have shaped her life and career.She also opens up about her work history, her current Medicaid situation, and the frustrating financial bind she’s found herself in after turning 65. Dawn offers practical advice for listeners navigating similar situations and issues a powerful call to action for policy change and advocacy.What the “disability tax” really means—beyond moneyHow time becomes a hidden cost for people with disabilitiesThe challenges of transportation, paratransit systems, and daily planningMedical expenses, personal care assistance, and utility costsDawn’s employment journey before and after the ADAWhy turning 65 changed everything in her access to supportThe Medicaid “catch-22” and client share systemPlanning ahead: Trusts, financial planners, and ABLE accountsState-by-state differences in disability support programsCalls to action for listeners, advocates, and lawmakersABLE Accounts – Achieving a Better Life ExperienceFind your state’s UCEDD (University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities)National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)Social Security Disability BenefitsConnect with local advocacy groups in your area for guidance and supportIf you are a person with a disability or a caregiver, now is the time to start planning financially. Advocate for inclusive policies, get educated about your state’s programs, and support legislation that eliminates barriers and expands opportunities for the disability community."Disability is a universal human experience—if we live long enough, it touches all of us." – Dawn Olson

  25. 3

    Finding My Voice – Dawn's Story

    You know, there's this moment that happens sometimes. When you're facing what seems like an impossible barrier, and everything in you wants to turn around and walk away.I've been there. More times than I can count. In hospitals, in workplaces, in government offices with mountains of paperwork... Just trying to live my life with dignity and independence.I'm Dawn Olson, and I've spent my life navigating systems and spaces that weren't designed with people like me in mind. I've felt the frustration, the isolation, and yes, sometimes the defeat.But I've also experienced the power of finding my voice. The community that emerges when we share our stories. And the change that's possible when we refuse to accept the world as it is.That's what this podcast is about. It's about the hard conversations and the honest truths. It's about acknowledging the struggle while celebrating the strength. And it's about creating a future where disability doesn't mean difficulty—it just means difference.Each week on “Unfiltered Resilience:" I'll explore the practical challenges of navigating systems not built for us. We'll dive into the emotional impact of living with disability in an ableist world. And we'll celebrate the small victories and the big breakthroughs that make it all worthwhile.This isn't just another inspirational podcast. This is real talk about real life—the struggles and the successes, the fears and the triumphs.Whether you're living with a disability, supporting someone who is, or simply want to be part of creating a more inclusive world, this podcast is an invitation. An invitation to learn, to grow, and to join a community that believes in the power of both vulnerability and resilience.

  26. 2

    Trailer Episode

    You know, there's this moment that happens sometimes. When you're facing what seems like an impossible barrier, and everything in you wants to turn around and walk away.I've been there. More times than I can count. In hospitals, in workplaces, in government offices with mountains of paperwork... Just trying to live my life with dignity and independence.I'm Dawn Olson, and I've spent my life navigating systems and spaces that weren't designed with people like me in mind. I've felt the frustration, the isolation, and yes, sometimes the defeat.But I've also experienced the power of finding my voice. The community that emerges when we share our stories. And the change that's possible when we refuse to accept the world as it is.That's what this podcast is about. It's about the hard conversations and the honest truths. It's about acknowledging the struggle while celebrating the strength. And it's about creating a future where disability doesn't mean difficulty—it just means difference.Each week on “Unfiltered Resilience:" I'll explore the practical challenges of navigating systems not built for us. We'll dive into the emotional impact of living with disability in an ableist world. And we'll celebrate the small victories and the big breakthroughs that make it all worthwhile.This isn't just another inspirational podcast. This is real talk about real life—the struggles and the successes, the fears and the triumphs.Whether you're living with a disability, supporting someone who is, or simply want to be part of creating a more inclusive world, this podcast is an invitation. An invitation to learn, to grow, and to join a community that believes in the power of both vulnerability and resilience.This is "Unfiltered Resilience:" New episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

"Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey is a deeply personal and educational podcast that explores the intersection of disability rights, personal growth, and societal change. Hosted by advocate and storyteller Dawn Olson, this podcast creates a space where vulnerability meets strength, where difficult conversations become opportunities for connection, and where listeners are invited to reimagine what's possible.Each episode weaves together Dawn's lived experiences with thoughtful reflection and practical insights to challenge perceptions, provide valuable knowledge, and inspire action.

HOSTED BY

Dawn Olson

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey have?

Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey currently has 26 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey about?

"Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey is a deeply personal and educational podcast that explores the intersection of disability rights, personal growth, and societal change. Hosted by advocate and storyteller Dawn Olson, this podcast creates a space where vulnerability meets strength, where...

How often does Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey release new episodes?

Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey has 26 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey?

You can listen to Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey?

Unfiltered Resilience: Dawn Olson's Journey is created and hosted by Dawn Olson.
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