Brooke reconnects with former guest, Jess for a heartfelt conversation about the evolving landscape of disability pride in the UK and the US. Jess shares her personal journey of moving from London to Chicago, navigating a divorce, and re-entering the dating scene as a disabled woman.

The duo explores the stark differences in societal attitudes towards disability in both countries, touching on the impact of media representation and accessibility. They delve into the challenges of dating, particularly the unique experiences faced by disabled individuals, and emphasise the importance of self-love and setting boundaries. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• There is a notable difference in how disability is perceived and represented in the UK versus the US. While the US has made strides in accessibility through legislation like the ADA, the general attitude towards disability often leans towards a "fix it" mindset, whereas the UK tends to have a more accepting and integrated view of disability in everyday life.
• Personal life changes, such as going through a divorce, can significantly alter one's perspective on disability and self-identity. The journey of navigating dating and relationships post-divorce has led to a deeper understanding of self-worth and the importance of setting boundaries.
• The experience of dating apps varies greatly between the US and the UK. Being upfront about disabilities can serve as a filter, helping to attract more understanding partners. 
• The high prices of medications in the US, compared to the more accessible NHS in the UK, create significant barriers for disabled individuals, often forcing them to ration their medications.
• Taking up space and claiming one's identity as a disabled person is crucial for self-empowerment. 

BEST MOMENTS

"Disability Pride really began in the U.S. ... but it's not. Disability is very much seen in the U.S. as something that still needs to be overcome." 

"It's okay to take up space. ... You should take it up as loudly and as proudly as possible." 

"The dating scene is hell right now. Let's not mince words because it is."

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!