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What happens when you finally get the diagnosis that explains your whole life… and what doesn’t it change at all? In this powerful episode of ListenABLE, Angus sits down with disability advocate and podcaster Kelly Berger, who shares her journey living with an ultra-rare form of congenital muscular dystrophy, Collagen 6. After years of misdiagnosis, Kelly received her genetic confirmation as an adult, a moment that brought clarity, community and a new sense of direction, without changing who she fundamentally is. Kelly speaks candidly about the emotional weight of diagnosis, navigating healthcare systems, building community, and what real accessibility actually looks like in daily life. From the realities of infrastructure in the US to the gaps between performative inclusion and genuine integration, this conversation goes well beyond awareness and into what meaningful change requires. We also dive into Kelly’s podcast 'Wheel Talk', her advocacy work, and how she’s helping reshape how disability, rare disease and identity are spoken about in public spaces. This is a conversation about resilience, identity, leadership and how visibility changes everything. Living with Collagen 6 congenital muscular dystrophy The emotional impact of finally receiving a genetic diagnosis Rare disease advocacy and disability representation Accessibility in infrastructure and public spaces Navigating healthcare systems and misdiagnosis Disability identity and pride Building community with and without disability Language, inclusion and allyship Performative vs meaningful disability representation Creating podcasts within the disability community Why visibility matters Kelly Berger is a disability advocate, podcaster and rare disease community leader living with Collagen 6 congenital muscular dystrophy. She is the co-host of Wheel Talk, a podcast exploring disability, identity and lived experience through honest, accessible conversations. Kelly works actively in advocacy, accessibility awareness and rare disease representation. ListenABLE is a podcast created to amplify disability voices, challenge stereotypes and explore what inclusion actually looks like in practice. Hosted by Angus O’Loughlin alongside Dylan Alcott, the show brings real stories, lived experience and meaningful conversations into the mainstream. Podcast: Wheel Talk with Kelly and Averyhttps://www.instagram.com/thewheeltalkpodcast/

Episode out Tuesday!

In this episode, Elizabeth Wright shares her journey from being a Paralympic swimmer to becoming a sports journalist. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of her career, the importance of representation in media, and her personal experiences with disability. Elizabeth emphasises the need for more coverage of Paralympic sports and the significance of embracing one's identity and pride in the face of ableism. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of disability representation in journalism and the importance of community support. Connect with Elizabeth  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethlwright/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-wright-ply-300610129/  Website: http://www.elizabethwright.net/  What we cover: Elizabeth Wright transitioned from Paralympic swimmer to sports journalist. She emphasizes the need for more representation of disabled individuals in media. The Sydney 2000 Paralympics were a turning point for public support of para sports. Elizabeth faced challenges in her identity after retiring from swimming. She found empowerment through photography and art. Living with a disability requires daily practice of self-acceptance. Elizabeth advocates for more coverage of Paralympic sports. She reflects on the ableist perceptions in society. The importance of community pride in disability is highlighted. Elizabeth aims to inspire more disabled individuals to pursue journalism.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:58 Elizabeth Wright's Journey in Sports Journalism 05:51 Reflections on the Paralympic Games 09:05 Life After Competitive Swimming 11:51 Exploring Identity Through Art and Photography 14:54 Understanding Disability and Personal Experience 21:19 The Journey of Adaptation 22:34 Prosthetics: Tools of Empowerment 26:54 Disability Pride: A Daily Practice 31:10 The Future of Disability Representation in Journalism 33:43 Confronting Ableism: Personal Experiences and Growth See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLE, Dylan and Angus sit down with Storm and Holly, the founder and brand ambassador of ByStorm Beauty, a trailblazing inclusive beauty brand designed for people with disabilities. They explore the challenges of inaccessible makeup, the importance of representation in beauty, and how ByStorm is creating products that empower the disability community while building a profitable, inclusive business. Storm shares the journey from co-designing accessible tools to collaborating with major brands, while Holly reflects on the personal impact of independence, confidence, and visibility. Discover how thoughtful design, community consultation, and advocacy are reshaping the beauty industry—and learn why accessibility benefits everyone. Connect with Holly and Storm: Storm: https://www.linkedin.com/in/storm-menzies/  ByStorm: https://bystormbeauty.com/  Holly: linkedin.com/in/holly-sultana-b37410212  Chapter Titles & Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Listenable 00:01 – Accessible Makeup Inspiration: How breaking a hand led to a new approach 01:40 – Meet Storm & Holly: Founders and ambassadors of ByStorm Beauty 03:00 – Empowerment Through Representation: How ByStorm impacts the disability community 06:10 – The Problem With Inaccessible Beauty: Everyday struggles and barriers 07:27 – Normalizing Struggle: Holly’s perspective on accessibility and independence 08:33 – Overcoming Ableism in Beauty: Challenges convincing others accessibility matters 12:12 – Building a Disability-Led Business: From prototypes to a thriving brand 16:20 – What is Accessible Makeup?: Tools, attachments, and co-design 18:08 – Collaborations & Industry Impact: Celeste Barber and mainstream engagement 19:43 – Representing ByStorm: The ambassador experience and social impact 25:08 – Community & Advisory Board: Lived experience shaping product development 27:00 – Retail & Global Expansion: Inclusion in stores and future plans 31:04 – Time & Independence: How accessibility saves time and fosters autonomy 33:06 – Product Design Details: Shapes, grips, and user experience 34:52 – Packaging & Unboxing: Accessibility beyond the product itself   accessible makeup, inclusive beauty, disability advocacy, disability-led business, ByStorm Beauty, makeup for disabilities, co-design products, empowerment, representation in beauty, inclusive product design See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian Senator Jordon Steele-John joins Dylan Alcott and Angus O’Loughlin to share what life is really like inside Parliament as a wheelchair user and one of the few disabled politicians in Australia. From rushing to Senate votes without extra time allowances to reshaping accessibility in politics, Jordon gives a candid and inspiring look at how inclusion, policy, and representation intersect in Australia’s most powerful building. The conversation spans his journey from a 23-year-old Greens candidate from WA to a national advocate for accessibility, neurodiversity, and disability rights. Jordon opens up about moments of misunderstanding on the campaign trail, how his ADHD and cerebral palsy shape his leadership, and why true inclusion starts with “getting our own house in order.” This episode is full of insight, humour, and practical advice for anyone—disabled or not—who wants to create change in their community. Connect with Jordon: https://www.instagram.com/jordonsteelejohn/?hl=en  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordon-steele-john-656ba917a/  Key Topics Life as a Senator with disability Accessibility barriers in Parliament House Ableism in political systems How Parliament handles (or doesn’t handle) disability inclusion The power of lived experience in politics Jordon’s journey to the Senate at age 23 Disability pride and representation ADHD, cerebral palsy, and leadership Advice for young people with disability wanting to enter politics Building collective action for change Quotes “If Parliament is going to make laws that fix accessibility in the community, we’ve got to literally get our own house in order first.” – Jordon Steele-John “People thought I was collecting for charity, not running for office. That moment showed how deeply society equates disability with needing help, not giving leadership.” – Jordon Steele-John “Politics should represent every voice—including people with intellectual and cognitive disabilities. The system can and should be rebuilt to meet everyone’s access needs.” – Jordon Steele-John About Jordon Steele-John Jordon Steele-John is an Australian Greens Senator for Western Australia and the youngest person ever elected to the Australian Senate. A proud disabled man with cerebral palsy and ADHD, Jordon has been a leading advocate for disability rights, climate justice, and inclusive reform since 2017. His work includes helping establish the Disability Royal Commission and pushing for systemic accessibility across Australian institutions.   Jordon Steele-John, Dylan Alcott, Angus O’Loughlin, ListenABLE podcast, Australian Parliament accessibility, disability politics Australia, cerebral palsy, ADHD, Greens Senator WA, disability representation, ableism in politics, Disability Royal Commission, inclusion, accessibility reform, disabled leaders, advocacy Australia See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the ListenABLE with Karni Liddell she opens up about her incredible journey from being diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition at birth to becoming a world class Paralympian, advocate, and mother. Karni reflects on her experiences in elite sport, the evolution of disability representation, and the personal challenges that shaped her strength and perspective. She speaks candidly about the realities of motherhood with a disability, the significance of the Paralympics in shifting public perception, and the ongoing fight to ensure people with disabilities are supported and seen.   Follow Karni: https://www.instagram.com/karniliddell/ https://au.linkedin.com/in/karniliddell   Key Takeaways • Karni was diagnosed at birth with a neuromuscular wasting disease and was told she wouldn't live a long life. • Sport became a powerful avenue for confidence, independence, and connection. • The Paralympic movement has transformed dramatically over the past 25 years. • Motherhood brought new purpose along with new challenges. • Visibility and media representation play a critical role in changing perceptions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 05:37 Karni Liddell’s Journey with Disability 18:38 Motherhood and Disability 24:39 Celebrating 25 Years of the Paralympics 25:39 Reflections on the 1996 Paralympics 28:11 The Impact of Sydney 2000 30:00 The Evolution of Disability Representation 32:54 The Future of Paralympic Sports 35:39 Challenges and Triumphs in Swimming 37:30 The New Generation of Paralympians 40:10 Representation in Media and Personal Identity Karni Liddell, Paralympian, disability advocacy, motherhood, neuromuscular disease, Paralympic movement, representation, inclusion, athlete stories, resilience See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Listenable, hosts Angus O'Loughlin and Dylan Alcott sit down with Sean Pollard, a para snowboarder and shark attack survivor whose story embodies resilience, courage, and reinvention. Sean opens up about the life-changing moment in 2014 when he lost both arms to a shark attack, and how he transformed that trauma into motivation—becoming an elite athlete with his sights set on the Paralympics. The conversation explores the emotional and physical recovery process, the role of mindset in overcoming adversity, and how Sean found freedom and purpose through snowboarding. It’s an inspiring discussion about identity, adaptability, and redefining what’s possible after loss. Key Takeaways Dylan Alcott hints at a potential comeback to tennis. Sean Pollard introduces himself as a para snowboarder. Sean lost both arms in a shark attack in 2014. He uses a split hook prosthetic for daily activities. Sean prefers the hook over an electronic hand for versatility. He recalls the traumatic details of the shark attack. Sean stresses the power of mindset in recovery. He found freedom and purpose through snowboarding. Sean is training for the upcoming Paralympics. He reflects on how the attack reshaped his identity and outlook on life. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction and Comeback Discussion 02:01 — Meet Sean Pollard: A Snowboarder’s Journey 05:53 — The Shark Attack Experience 11:51 — Life After the Attack: Adapting to Disability 17:23 — Snowboarding: Finding Freedom on the Slopes 23:30 — Preparing for the Paralympics 29:20 — Reflections on Identity and Life Lessons   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLE, hosts Dylan Alcott and Angus O’Loughlin sit down with Carly Salmon – athlete, teacher, and captain of the Para Matildas. Carly opens up about her journey with cerebral palsy, how sport shaped her identity, and why representation in disability sport matters now more than ever. From her early years in athletics to leading Australia’s Para Matildas, Carly shares the highs and lows of competing, teaching, and empowering others. She reflects on the impact of women’s football, the importance of mental health in sport, and her mission to inspire young people to see their disabilities as strengths. Follow their journey: Carly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlysalmon ParaMatildas: https://www.instagram.com/paramatildas/  Para Volley: https://www.instagram.com/ausparavolley/    Key Takeaways Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at 18 months, Carly has grown into a leader in sport and education. Represented Australia in athletics before transitioning into football. Captain of the Para Matildas, leading by example on and off the field. Teaching is central to her advocacy – showing kids that disability doesn’t limit potential. Women’s football’s rise has created more visibility and momentum for para athletes. Advocates strongly for funding and support to grow para sports in Australia. Believes sport is a powerful way to build identity, community, and empowerment. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 03:09 – Carly Salmon's Journey with Cerebral Palsy 05:55 – Teaching and Impact on Students 08:59 – Realizations of Disability in School 11:43 – Finding Strength in Disability 14:46 – Transitioning from Athletics to Football 17:49 – Leadership in Team Sports 20:44 – The Rise of Women's Football and Its Impact 23:49 – Pride in Disability Beyond Sports 26:37 – Future Goals for the Para Matildas 29:56 – Addressing Funding and Support for Para Sports See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLe, we explore the complex and often overlooked connection between disability and sexuality with guest Oliver Morton Evans, a leading disability and sexuality advocate. Oliver shares his personal story of growing up with cerebral palsy, the unique challenges of navigating intimacy, dating, and relationships, and how accessibility barriers continue to shape the lives of people with disabilities. The conversation dives into the role of sex work, the impact of recent NDIS funding changes, and the importance of advocacy to ensure equal rights to intimacy, connection, and inclusion.   Hire him to model your clothes or brand: https://theright.fit/talent/oliver-m-1  Connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivermorton-evans  Get your ‘Sambrella’ here: https://sammysworldofcolour.com/products/sambrella  Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/HqevPrCAUNo Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au   Key Takeaways Conversations around disability and sexuality should be normalised and accessible. Oliver Morton Evans is a passionate advocate for inclusion in dating, relationships, and intimacy. Growing up with cerebral palsy created significant barriers to forming intimate connections. In pursuit of learning intimacy, Oliver once joined a meetup group that revealed itself as a sex cult. Accessibility in both social and sexual spaces remains a major challenge. Recent NDIS restrictions limit funding for sexual services, affecting many in the disability community. Sex work can play a vital role in providing connection, intimacy, and advocacy for people with disabilities. There is a pressing need for better sex education that is inclusive of people with disabilities. Oliver has produced erotic film content showcasing disabled bodies and intimacy to challenge stigma. Advocacy continues for the right of people with disabilities to access sexual expression and services. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Disability and Sexuality Conversations 02:11 – Oliver's Journey and Advocacy in Disability 07:19 – Navigating Intimacy and Dating as a Person with Disability 12:50 – Accessibility Challenges in Social and Sexual Spaces 18:59 – The Role of Sex Work in Disability Advocacy 23:46 – Funding and Support for Sexual Services in Disability 26:04 – Future Aspirations and Ongoing Advocacy   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the ListenABLE podcast, hosts Angus and Dylan sit down with Sara Shams — a pharmacist, model, and disability advocate — to share her inspiring journey as a bilateral above-knee amputee living with the rare genetic condition tibial hemimelia. Sara opens up about her early life and multiple surgeries, how advances in prosthetics technology have shaped her independence, and the confidence she’s built through advocacy and representation in media. The conversation dives into cultural perspectives on disability, the impact of the Shift 20 initiative on increasing authentic representation, and how brands can move beyond tokenism to embrace true inclusion. From breaking into the modelling industry to launching consultancy work for accessible runways, Sara shares the importance of personal choice in mobility aids, resilience in the face of stigma, and the power of visibility in changing perceptions. What You’ll Learn: How prosthetic advancements are transforming independence and mobility. Why authentic representation matters for the disability community. The business and social impact of the Shift 20 initiative. How to address tokenism through education and cultural change. The role of confidence, resilience, and personal choice in disability advocacy.   Get in contact with Sara: https://sarashams.au/  Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarashams Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/ux5keqFJjTM  Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 03:00 Sara Shams: A Journey Through Disability 05:53 Understanding Tibial Hemimelia and Its Impact 08:56 Surgical Journey and Early Life Experiences 12:04 Evolution of Prosthetics and Technology 15:01 Building Confidence and Embracing Disability 17:54 Cultural Perspectives on Disability 18:25 The Journey into Modeling 21:37 Advocacy through Shift 20 Initiative 22:42 Navigating Tokenism and Authentic Representation 26:51 Launching her Consultancy 30:16 The Balance of Representation and Tokenism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode of ListenABLE, we’re joined by Jessica Horner, a neurodivergent journalist and policy advisor living with autism, ADHD, and multiple medical disabilities. Jessica offers a powerful and deeply personal conversation about what it means to navigate life and work through the lens of disability and neurodivergence. Together, we explore the dynamic nature of disability and how traditional models often fall short of recognising the full spectrum of lived experience. From unpacking the emotional and physical toll of masking and autistic burnout, to examining the recent rise in ADHD diagnoses, Jessica reflects on the evolving language, systems, and stigmas surrounding neurodivergence. We also delve into how medical disabilities intersect with mental health, the role of support systems, and the importance of creating safer spaces for disclosure, especially in workplaces where harassment and bias remain widespread. Drawing from her background in journalism, Jessica discusses how the media shapes public perception of disability and why self-diagnosis is a valid and vital part of identity for many. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in disability advocacy, inclusive mental health practices, and challenging the assumptions we make about what disability looks like.Trigger Warning: Themes of Suicide Discussed Want to connect with Jessica? Check out the links Below! Website: https://www.spoonfulsofwhimsy.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spoonfulsofwhimsy Email: [email protected] Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/4yAC4QLQ1ec If you feel like you need support after today's episode please look at the links below: Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636): https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Lifeline Australia (13 11 14): https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Grab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLE, registered psychologist Kellie Forrest shares her experiences living with cerebral palsy and working in mental health. As both a parent and a professional, Kellie provides insight into how internalised ableism, societal attitudes, and systemic gaps impact people with disability in day-to-day life. Kellie speaks candidly about parenting with a disability, navigating hospitals and schools, and the assumptions she’s encountered as a disabled parent. She reflects on how these experiences intersect with her work as a psychologist, where she supports neurodivergent clients and applies trauma-informed and behaviour support frameworks. The conversation dives into the complexity of the NDIS, including inconsistent access to support and difficulties with innovative treatments. Kellie also recounts her personal experience with a car accident and the barriers faced during the insurance claims process—especially when dealing with modified vehicles. Throughout the episode, Dylan and Angus explore how lived experience can shape professional practice, and why representation within psychology and healthcare matters. Want to contact Kellie? Reach out to her clinic: [email protected] Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/Yul1SVSnomAGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLE, Angus O'Loughlin and Dylan Alcott are  joined by Rita Havea, a model, content creator and disability advocate living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a progressive genetic neuromuscular condition, "Went and saw a genetic counsellor, linked myself to CMT support groups, did as much research as possible,'cause I felt that made me feel stronger in myself". The conversation also delves into how disability can affect family dynamics, particularly when conditions go unrecognised across generations. Rita reflects on her mother’s undiagnosed CMT and how this shaped their family’s understanding of disability. As someone working within the fashion and creative industries as a model/creator, Rita shares her perspective on disability representation in media and modelling, and why change often feels cosmetic rather than structural. She also touches on genetic counselling, community support, and her shift towards creative direction and public speaking. This episode offers a grounded conversation about disability, inclusion and identity — avoiding clichés and focusing instead on lived experience, structural barriers, and the importance of visibility that goes beyond aesthetics. Want to see more of Rita and her work? Check our the links below! Website: https://www.silverfoxmgmt.com.au/portfolios/rita-havea Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrita_h/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/0YKK4wE4ViMGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of ListenABLE, hosts Dylan Alcott and Angus O’Loughlin speak with Cherie Clonan — autistic business leader, digital marketing expert, and founder of The Digital Picnic. Diagnosed with Autism later in life, Cherie shares her lived experience as a neurodivergent woman, parent of autistic children, and CEO of one of Australia’s most human-centric digital agencies. "The way I parent, the way I show up in my marriage, I'm a better friend for that diagnosis sitting in my life now..." Listeners will hear how Cherie transformed The Digital Picnic from a small business into a multi-million dollar, award-winning agency known for prioritising mental health, inclusivity, and neurodiverse-friendly work practices. She explains how discovering her neurodivergence reshaped her personal life, improved her relationships, and empowered her leadership style. This episode delves into the importance of normalising disability, challenging ableism in the workplace, and creating supportive environments for neurodivergent employees. Cherie also discusses the impact of late diagnosis, the power of self-understanding, and how investing in employee wellbeing leads to business success. Whether you're interested in autism advocacy, inclusive leadership, or neurodiversity in business, this inspiring conversation offers practical insights and real-life experiences that will resonate with many. Want to see more of Cherie and The Digital Picnic? Check our the links below! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherie-clonan/ Website: https://www.thedigitalpicnic.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedigitalpicnic/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/mnWV0tVApPkGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the ListenABLE Podcast, your hosts Dylan and Angus are joined by John Mckenna, a renowned disability advocate, podcaster, and expert with over 60 years of lived experience navigating life with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita. John is a passionate advocate for disability rights, independence, and the importance of community support for people with disabilities. John's journey highlights the evolution of assistive technologies, from early electric wheelchairs to cutting-edge gadgets, and explores the challenges of growing up with a disability in the 1960s and 1970s. The conversation also delves into the societal impacts of institutionalisation of that time and the critical role of disability advocacy in shaping more inclusive communities for the future. As a key figure in the development of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), John shares his insights on how lived experience informs policy and why inclusive disability policy is crucial for social change. The episode also covers the often-overlooked intersection of disability and sexuality, discussing the importance of representation and breaking taboos. Want to support John? Check our the links below! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmckennajp/ Website: https://johnmckenna.com.au/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/mnWV0tVApPkGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.au See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.