Disabled and Proud
Brooke Millhouse
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Top 10 Disabled and Proud Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Disabled and Proud episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Disabled and Proud for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Disabled and Proud episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
Challenging Ableism and Embracing Disability - with David Burroughs
Disabled and Proud
06/11/24 • 48 min
Brooke meets David, a wheelchair user with cerebral palsy who shares his journey and experiences with disability. David discusses his childhood surgeries, the impact of his disability on his education, and the challenges he faced in the workplace. He also talks about the creation of Buddies For All, a social isolation tackling initiative born out of the pandemic.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- David created a platform called Buddies For All to tackle social isolation among disabled individuals, providing opportunities for social and leisure activities.
- There are challenges in navigating the university experience as a mature student, highlighting issues of ableism and social integration.
- David shares experiences of ableism in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of addressing uncomfortable conversations around disability.
- We require nuanced conversations and discomfort in addressing misconceptions.
- We need to take a nuanced view on being disabled and proud, acknowledging that it depends on the day and circumstances, reflecting the complexity of disability identity.
BEST MOMENTS
"The trouble with me is I can't see, my good points tend to focus on the bad stuff, so I tend to feed that to other people too."
"I suppose that I never give up, I keep trying. So it's a never say die attitude."
"I do think that point is really quite key is that sometimes it is a yes or no answer, and it completely depends upon the person."
"Kids being curious around disability is a good thing because it's almost like it gives you a moment to be like, do you know what, like being disabled, like it happens, it's fine."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
06/04/24 • 55 min
Brooke talks to Kelly, the CEO and co-founder of With Not For, a dynamic and disruptive content and talent agency, to look at topics related to disability, acceptance, and their work experiences. They delve into Kelly's personal journey of acceptance as a wheelchair user and reflect on the complexities of navigating disability in different environments. The conversation also looks at their collaboration with Guinness on a project involving accessibility and inclusion at Twickenham Stadium, showcasing their commitment to creating positive change in the industry.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The proudest moment for Kelly was when they said no to someone for the first time, realising the power and responsibility they have in shaping their company's values and working with the right people.
- The experience of working on the Guinness project, especially the pitch-side moment during the England versus Ireland match, was a significant achievement and a memorable experience.
- Kelly and her team provided training and consultation to England Rugby and Scotland Rugby, focusing on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity for disabled fans during match days.
- Building a strong community of like-minded individuals within With Not For, where everyone feels supported, respected, and valued, was emphasised as a key achievement and source of pride.
BEST MOMENTS
"I think honestly, my proudest moment, I think that the Guinness pitch side moment was up there, you know, when you're up there, especially as well when Rag and Bone Man came on."
"The first time we said no to someone... that is huge and I don't want to sound negative in any way but I think that that was the moment where it really clicked for me
"That might have been the best day of my life!"
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Embracing Cerebral Palsy - with Abbie Hills
Disabled and Proud
03/13/24 • 50 min
Brooke is joined by Abbie, who shares her journey as a disabled woman with cerebral palsy in the film and TV industry. She discusses her experiences growing up with hemiplegia, a type of cerebral palsy affecting one side of her body, and talks about the challenges she faced in school, the lack of support from medical professionals, and her journey towards self-acceptance and confidence.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Abbie has developed resilience and stubbornness over time, allowing her to speak out and advocate for herself and others in the face of ignorance and ableism.
- There is great value in finding a community of people with similar lived experiences.
- Abbie has learned to be unapologetic about her disability and not hide parts of herself, leading to increased confidence and self-acceptance.
- Use your platform for advocacy and allyship. This is how we encourage everyone to use their voices for positive change.
BEST MOMENTS
"I have cerebral palsy. The two default responses I get are 'What's that?' or 'Oh, my mum's cousin's mate has that and you don't look the same as them.'"
"I think little me would be proud of bigger me now for all the stuff I've done and the fact that I'm not hiding anymore."
"I think something that has really helped me, particularly in the last couple of years, is finding my community as well, like finding other people with lived experience who are a similar age to me."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
10/17/23 • 57 min
Brooke welcomes Keron Day, an actor and disability advocate., to discuss the journey of embracing disability and using the term "disabled" proudly.
They delve into the importance of representation in film and TV, challenging ableist narratives, and creating a more inclusive and realistic portrayal of disabled people. Keron also talks about what it's like to work in the film and TV industry, highlighting the accessibility changes brought about by online platforms.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Disability representation in film and TV is crucial for creating a more inclusive and realistic narrative about disabled people.
- The journey to embracing and proudly identifying as disabled can be a process of unlearning ableist narratives and challenging societal perceptions.
- The film and TV industry is slowly starting to address access needs and the importance of having disabled individuals in key roles, both in front of and behind the camera.
- Disability is not a monolithic experience, and diversity within disability representation is essential to accurately reflect the disabled community.
BEST MOMENTS
"Diversity without disability is not diversity."
"The exclusion of disabled people within film and TV perpetuates this idea that disabled people are other, disabled people are a very small minority that we can afford to ignore."
"Disability is not a monolith, it's very much an umbrella term for a whole multitude of different things."
"Everyone's just human. Just speak to people like normal people and you're going to get so much better response."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Humour and Kindness: The Resilient Traits of a Punk Artist
Disabled and Proud
04/02/24 • 55 min
Brooke is joined by the amazing Jason, a disabled artist, who shares his journey of acquiring a disability and how it transformed his life. Jason discusses his experiences growing up in a working-class family, becoming disabled at a young age, and the challenges he faced in the care system.
Despite the difficulties, Jason's resilience and sense of humour shine through as he navigates the art world and advocates for disability rights. The conversation delves into the importance of kindness, humour, and activism in the face of adversity.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Jason uses art as a form of activism, creating pieces that convey powerful messages about disability rights and societal issues.
- You cannot overemphasise the importance of humour and kindness in navigating difficult situations and advocating for change.
- Jason highlights ongoing challenges with accessibility, including inaccessible venues and the need for reasonable adjustments.
- Jason draws inspiration from artists like Philip Guston and Frida Kahlo, using art as a medium to express personal experiences and societal commentary.
BEST MOMENTS
"I became disabled as well in 1980, which was apparent. I was told as well that it was the best year to become disabled because it was the international year of disability."
"There's so much to be said from creating art, particularly from pain points in our life. And I think that it's really laudable for you to almost put that on display, because even though it might not look exactly how it was, you know, it's not like it's realism."
"I always say, when I became disabled, it was a transformative experience. So very working class background, like I said, not much money, but I was introduced to education in a big way."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Casual Ableism - Social Media For Change
Disabled and Proud
01/17/24 • 54 min
Brooke talks to Laura from Casual Ableism, a popular Instagram account that raises awareness about ableism through humour and truthfulness.
Laura talks about her personal journey with disability, from being diagnosed with muscular dystrophy at a young age to navigating the challenges of school and societal perceptions. She also shares their experiences of embracing her disability and finding empowerment through understanding and acceptance.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Casual Ableism is a social media platform that raises awareness about ableism and provides a community for individuals with disabilities.
- Disability is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and it is important to recognise and respect the unique experiences and perspectives of each individual.
- It is okay to feel frustrated or overwhelmed by the challenges of disability, and it is important to give yourself permission to feel and process those emotions.
- Finding a supportive community of friends and allies who accept and understand you for who you are is crucial for navigating the challenges of disability.
- Adapting and finding solutions that work for you is key in overcoming barriers and moving forward in life with a disability.
BEST MOMENTS
"I think sometimes we have to take a bit of tragedy with humour."
"I'm definitely proud to say I'm disabled and have a physical disability."
"It's progressive. And for a lot of people, it can be stable for lots of years and then it can progress or it can develop later on in life."
"It's okay to have those moments where you don't feel proud to be disabled, or you don't feel like it's kind of, oh, it's fine, you know, I'll just get on with it."
"Disability is not one size fits all. It's so individual for every single person." VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Celebrating 100 Episodes - Exclusive Giveaway Alert: Win Epic Prizes from Disabled Business Owners in the 100th Episode Special
Disabled and Proud
04/09/24 • 23 min
To celebrate 100 episodes of the podcast Brooke is here with a solo episode reflecting on the origins of the podcast and the importance of disability representation.
Brooke shares her personal journey of growing up as the only physically disabled person in her family and the challenges she faced in society's perception of disability. She discusses the impact of social media on changing the narrative around disability and highlights the diverse conversations she has had with guests on the podcast. Brooke also answers questions from listeners, revealing her surprise at the positive reception of the podcast and the impactful conversations that have challenged her own views on disability.
Finally, there's a big giveaway to celebrate the milestone, showcasing items from disabled business owners.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- The 100th episode of the podcast includes a big giveaway with epic prizes from disabled business owners and allies.
- The idea for Disabled and Proud stemmed from the lack of representation of disabled individuals in media and the desire to hear conversations between disabled people that weren't the typical extremes portrayed.
- Social media has played a significant role in changing the narrative around disability by providing representation and community for individuals with disabilities.
- The most impactful conversations on Disabled and Proud are those that challenge the host's own thoughts and perceptions about disability, particularly when guests are at different stages of acceptance.
- Guests for Disabled and Proud are chosen based on their background, past work, success, failure, openness to conversations, and ability to bring a unique perspective to the table.
BEST MOMENTS
"I knew from a really young age that I had to be okay with my disability, because if I wasn't okay with my disability, other people were going to find it a bit difficult."
"No two people in the disabled world are the same. No two people in the world are the same."
"I think having those conversations with people who might be right at the very beginning of their journey or who have been in this journey for years and years and years and just still aren't necessarily there is always really interesting."
"I think they're the most impactful conversations when it's completely different to my point of view."
"I'm always really surprised when people open up to these conversations with open arms and listen and I'm always like I love it so much when people send messages in saying that this podcast has impacted them like powerfully."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Moving Forward Whatever The Size of Your Step
Disabled and Proud
07/04/23 • 39 min
Dee talks with Brooke about her rare genetic condition and how she is disabled and proud.
They discuss ableism and why disabled people are so strong, confident and able to advocate for themselves
It's one step at a time on any journey and the steps can be big or small, the important thing is to keep making them
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- There is a stigma around using mobility aids but they are something that can help It’s the way people treat disability that brings the stigma
- Until you have a disability you are completely blind to how ableist the world is
- There isn’t a choice around being strong you have to be to get through
- If you feel like you have a disability you have to push and advocate for yourself
- I’m proud to call myself disabled now but it hasn’t always been so, it’s a journey you have to go through and now I wouldn’t change it for the world
- Sometimes you have to walk away from those who are ableists, you are the only person who knows what you are going through
BEST MOMENTS
‘I learnt to listen to my body and my head because it's important’
‘It’s a journey you have to go through and it can be lonely, finding your people can be really important’
‘When people find you are confident and love yourself it can be difficult for some people to compute’
‘It was scary needing to use something to help with my mobility but it’s those aids that help me to be independent’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
Disabled & Proud Podcast
ABOUT THE HOST
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Changing Attention and the Narrative
Disabled and Proud
06/20/23 • 48 min
Nicole talks with Brooke about her journey, from being part of a very small community to winning the title of Miss Iowa and taking part in the Miss America Pageant along with the transition from being a disabled child to a disabled adult and how the attention changes.
They discuss the importance of community and body autonomy and why Niccole is proud to be disabled
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Every day, in my job, I’m thinking about, talking about and serving the amputee community, it’s my every day
- It was crazy when I won because up until that point the messaging for me was that I wasn’t any different
- I competed alongside all the other girls for Miss America and felt like I won fair and square but the focus was on how inspiring it was
- Inherently me stepping on that stage was a really big thing and I was used as a marketing tool and treated differently
- I didn’t have a community surrounding me who could help me to make sense of it
- My life shifted drastically with the experience and it was full on as an experience the saving grace in all of it was the community
- Socially structures have been built to keep us out and it’s a lot of work to break those barriers
- I wish I’d been taught earlier about body autonomy and how to reach a point of peace with your body
- I understand that when people first interact with me I am representing everyone on my community
BEST MOMENTS
‘I went from winning one night to being world news the next day and that really freaked me out’
‘Let’s change the narrative, it doesn’t have to be pity narrative or a superhuman narrative or overcoming I’m living in my disabled body every day and doing things’
‘My disability isn’t my only attribute’
VALUABLE RESOURCES
ABOUT THE HOST
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
Unhiding and Embracing Disability: A Journey of Self-Acceptance - with Ruth Rathblott
Disabled and Proud
02/14/24 • 55 min
Brooke welcomes special guest, Ruth Rathblott to discuss the concept of "unhiding." Ruth shares her personal experiences of living with a limb difference and the challenges she faced in accepting and embracing her disability. They discuss the different perspectives within the disability community regarding terminology and identity, highlighting the importance of individual experiences and the need for open dialogue.
Ruth also reflects on her childhood, where she initially didn't see herself as different until a pivotal moment in high school. They delve into the impact of societal beauty standards on individuals with disabilities and the lack of representation in media. The conversation explores the journey of unhiding, which involves acknowledging, finding support, building a community, and ultimately sharing one's experiences to help others.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Acknowledging and accepting one's disability or difference is an important step towards self-acceptance and building deeper connections with others.
- Finding a trusted person to share one's experiences with can provide support and help in the journey of unhiding.
- Building a community of individuals with shared experiences can create a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of loneliness.
- Sharing one's experiences and story can help others who may be going through similar struggles and create a sense of connection and understanding.
- Representation and visibility of diverse experiences, including disability, in media and society is crucial for breaking down stereotypes and promoting acceptance and inclusion.
BEST MOMENTS
"I think my hand has been my greatest struggle and it's my greatest gift because it also allows me to connect with people."
"I think hiding, for me, is the problem. And it affects us in so many ways. And then unhiding becomes the bridge to connection, to self-acceptance, to leadership."
"I think sometimes with disability, we don't allow for the questions... So why not be able to ask a question to me if you're wanting to build a relationship with me?"
"I really welcome your prayers. They're not gonna do anything for the growth of this if that's what you're praying for, but I accept all prayers because there are things in my life that I wanna grow."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878
HOST BIO
Disabled and Proud is the show that brings listeners a different perspective on disability. Each week this podcast highlights an awesome disabled guest speaking about their own disability; why they are proud to be disabled and why they are proud to be themselves.
The conversations in this show will look at what challenges these amazing people face socially, mentally, physically and life in general. This show is raw, open, honest, funny, welcoming and educational.
Disabled & Proud does exactly what it says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without the need to conform to society, this is also not about toxic positivity. This show will be shining a big, bright light on disability without it being “Paralympic or pity”.
As you will hear disability is WHOLE, COMPLETE & PERFECT and whilst the topic of disability can be quite heavy - and we definitely don't shy away from the bad days - this podcast is also about having fun too! Our aim is to play a part in reclaiming the word disability - turning it from inadequacy to perfection!
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FAQ
How many episodes does Disabled and Proud have?
Disabled and Proud currently has 126 episodes available.
What topics does Disabled and Proud cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture, Personal Journals, Podcasts, Self-Improvement and Education.
What is the most popular episode on Disabled and Proud?
The episode title 'Moving Forward Whatever The Size of Your Step' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Disabled and Proud?
The average episode length on Disabled and Proud is 50 minutes.
How often are episodes of Disabled and Proud released?
Episodes of Disabled and Proud are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Disabled and Proud?
The first episode of Disabled and Proud was released on Apr 26, 2022.
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