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Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Hereditary Neuropathy Foundation. This episode may contain discussions of political viewpoints that are personal to each guest. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions based on various perspectives.

In this Episode:

What if the key to championing disability rights and political activism lies in the experiences of a 22-year-old trailblazer? Meet Cassidy Huff, a remarkable disability rights activist, actress, and social media influencer. Cassidy’s life is a testament to resilience and passion, having faced 41 spine surgeries and living with Conrad-Hierman syndrome, yet never wavering in her pursuit of the arts. From serenading crowds of 17,000 at just four years old to leading grassroots movements, Cassidy’s story is one of extraordinary grit and inspiration.

Our conversation with Cassidy dives into the critical role of representation in media and politics. She shares her journey from a passionate performer to the executive director of the Disabled Voters for Harris campaign, illustrating the profound impact of disability advocacy in the electoral process. Discover the broader implications of disability rights and how every political decision can affect the disabled community, as Cassidy highlights the urgency of accessible healthcare and anti-discrimination measures.

We also tackle the pressing issue of voting accessibility. Cassidy provides practical advice for ensuring ADA compliance at polling places and empowers listeners with strategies to overcome barriers, whether through curbside voting or early absentee ballot applications. Concluding with a heartfelt discussion on self-acceptance, we celebrate the powerful messages of embracing one's disability and the potential for future leadership that Cassidy embodies. Don’t miss this inspiring and informative episode that highlights both the personal and political aspects of disability advocacy.

• Learn more about Disabled Voters for Harris
• Follow Cassidy on Instagram & TikTok
• Connect with Cassidy on LinkedIn
• Visit Cassidy’s Website
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: embraceit@lp516.com

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id

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What if you could lead an entire team, present complex ideas, and engage in high-stakes discussions without ever speaking a word? This episode of the Embrace It podcast introduces you to Delaney Novor, an inspiring young leader who has mastered this art. As the Director of Product Management at the National Apartment Association, Delaney uses cutting-edge text-to-voice technology to navigate her professional and personal life seamlessly. Learn how she overcame communication barriers caused by dystonia and revolutionized her career, making her a beacon of empowerment for underrepresented professionals.

From her first encounter with assistive technology in middle school to the sophisticated Speech Ninja platform she uses today, Delaney shares her transformative journey in an authentic and compelling manner. She recounts her experiences with a high school transcriber and the pivotal moment a remote job led her to fully embrace text-to-voice tools. Delaney’s story is not just about technology; it’s about resilience, innovation, and redefining what’s possible. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of tech and accessibility, and how it can enable everyone to work and live on their own terms.

• Follow Delaney on Instagram
• Connect with Delaney on LinkedIn
• Visit Delaney’s Website
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: embraceit@lp516.com

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show

Send us a text

What if an initial misdiagnosis at the age of 13 led you down a winding path of medical challenges and remarkable resilience? This episode features Cori Fischer, a longtime member of our Trend-Able community, who reveals her incredible journey from being incorrectly diagnosed with dystonia to uncovering the true cause of her symptoms—a tethered spinal cord. Cori takes us through her experiences with multiple surgeries, and recoveries, and shares the profound emotional and physical toll that came with waking up with minimal sensation and movement from the waist down.

Cori's story is not just one of medical challenges but also a testament to her unwavering determination and advocacy. Transitioning from a college freshman to an occupational therapy (OT) student, Cori faced the life-altering challenge of adapting to life in a wheelchair after 14 surgeries. With the incredible support of her family, especially her sister, she overcame significant obstacles to return to school and pursue her aspirations. Cori’s unique perspective as an OT in a wheelchair allows her to deeply connect with her patients, offering them comfort and inspiration through her lived experience.

This heartfelt conversation also delves into the valuable lessons Cori has learned about resilience, support systems, and the importance of community. She emphasizes embracing imperfections, recognizing the value of mentors, and finding strength in others' struggles. Tune in to be inspired by Cori’s journey and the profound impact of sharing and learning from each other’s stories.

• Follow Cori on Instagram
• Connect with Cori on LinkedIn
• Watch Cori’s Graduation speech
• Learn more about SMERF.org
• Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
• Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
• Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
• Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis

Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.

Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.

For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: embraceit@lp516.com

Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898

Support the show