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In this episode of Embrace It, Estela and Lainie welcome Jessica Jordan Ping, aka “The Rolling Explorer.” Jessica is a fierce advocate, adaptive fashion consultant, and creator who’s made it her mission to break down stereotypes about disability. Living with CHILD syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting fewer than 60 people worldwide, Jessica brings a fresh perspective on what it means to truly “own it”—from the world of fashion to the challenges of travel, dating, and beyond.

With humor and raw honesty, Jessica shares why she decided to embrace her uniqueness and put herself out there on social media, how she tackles accessibility issues on her travels, and why it’s so important to cut through the pity and just live life on your own terms. From her adventures in adaptive rock climbing to her memorable White House appearance, Jessica proves that representation doesn’t have to fit a mold. Listen in for a conversation that’s both real and refreshing, and discover why Jessica’s motto of “owning it” is an invitation for everyone to live a little more authentically.

• Learn more about The Rolling Explorer
• Follow Jessica on Instagram & TikTok
• 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

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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

Support the show

Send us a text

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