Brooke takes a solo approach to highlight the powerful messages shared by the audience about Disability Pride Month. Through reading and discussing four standout responses, she delves into the importance of embracing disability pride, breaking societal molds, promoting visibility, and advocating for representation in various spheres of life. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Disability pride is an antidote for internalised ableism and a way to combat societal biases and expectations towards disabled individuals.
It is important to raise awareness, promote visibility, and ensure representation of disabled people in leadership roles to inspire younger generations and break stereotypes.
Disability pride is a journey that involves self-acceptance, resilience, and embracing one's authentic self, even in the face of societal challenges.
Celebrating diversity and showcasing the talents and achievements of disabled individuals helps challenge preconceived notions and promotes inclusivity.
By sharing lived experiences, advocating for change, and believing in oneself, disabled individuals can pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.

BEST MOMENTS

"Disability pride is almost the... the cure is not the right word, because I don't like the word cure, but I think it's the thing that really tackles ableism the most, is being able to have pride in who you are as a disabled person." 

"Without disability, there's no ingenuity." 

"Disability pride is about breaking out of the box so that we can fit to us." 

"Disability pride offers me the chance to reflect on my self-acceptance journey over the years."

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!

Brooke takes a solo approach to highlight the powerful messages shared by the audience about Disability Pride Month. Through reading and discussing four standout responses, she delves into the importance of embracing disability pride, breaking societal molds, promoting visibility, and advocating for representation in various spheres of life. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>Disability pride is an antidote for internalised ableism and a way to combat societal biases and expectations towards disabled individuals.</li>
<li>It is important to raise awareness, promote visibility, and ensure representation of disabled people in leadership roles to inspire younger generations and break stereotypes.</li>
<li>Disability pride is a journey that involves self-acceptance, resilience, and embracing one's authentic self, even in the face of societal challenges.</li>
<li>Celebrating diversity and showcasing the talents and achievements of disabled individuals helps challenge preconceived notions and promotes inclusivity.</li>
<li>By sharing lived experiences, advocating for change, and believing in oneself, disabled individuals can pave the way for a more inclusive and accepting society.</li>
</ul>
BEST MOMENTS
"Disability pride is almost the... the cure is not the right word, because I don't like the word cure, but I think it's the thing that really tackles ableism the most, is being able to have pride in who you are as a disabled person." 
"Without disability, there's no ingenuity." 
"Disability pride is about breaking out of the box so that we can fit to us." 
"Disability pride offers me the chance to reflect on my self-acceptance journey over the years."
VALUABLE RESOURCES
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878">https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878</a>
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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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!

Disabled and Proud is the show brought to you by top adaptive athlete Brooke Millhouse bringing 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. This podcast is an opportunity to show the world that there is beauty in disability; it is not to be feared, gawked at, pitied but to be celebrated - this is the place to revel in the splendour of the disabled whilst learning and growing as a collective. 

Disabled & Proud does exactly what is says on the tin! And whilst we are creating this space for disabled people to be unashamedly themselves, without need to conform for 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!

Disabled and Proud

Journey to Self-Acceptance: Reflections on Disability Pride

Brooke welcomes Aaron Fowler, a visually impaired rugby player and physio, for an engaging conversation about his journey in the world of VI rugby. Aaron shares his experiences with retinitis pigmentosa, discussing the challenges of growing up with sight loss and the importance of community support. The episode delves into the unique adaptations of visually impaired rugby, including the use of an audible ball and modified rules, as well as the camaraderie and inclusivity within the sport. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS


VI rugby, or visually impaired rugby, is played with adaptations such as a ball that makes noise and a touch-based tackling system. The game is played seven-a-side, with two halves of 10 minutes each, and includes a classification system for players based on their level of visual impairment.


Aaron was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of five. His journey included learning to use a white cane at 17 and later getting a guide dog, which significantly impacted his independence and mobility.


The rugby community is described as inclusive and supportive, with Aaron emphasising the importance of camaraderie among players. He also highlighted the need for better education and awareness about disabilities in society.


Participation in visually impaired sports often requires significant travel and personal funding, as there is limited financial support available. Teams often rely on fundraising efforts to cover travel costs for competitions.


VI rugby is expanding internationally, with teams in several countries including England, Japan, and Ireland. Upcoming tournaments, such as the one in November, aim to showcase the sport and attract more players and spectators, with hopes of increasing participation, especially among women.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think when you have a disability, you either go one of two ways. Either you get really frustrated and bitter about things, or you just kind of have to accept that this is how the world currently is." 

"I was about 12 when my parents told me the extent to which my sight loss could develop into one day. It was a lot to process." 

"I think there's still a lot to be done to educate society about people with various disabilities." 

"This will be the first time we've had an international tournament in England, and it will be a great opportunity for us to showcase our sport." 

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!

Brooke welcomes Aaron Fowler, a visually impaired rugby player and physio, for an engaging conversation about his journey in the world of VI rugby. Aaron shares his experiences with retinitis pigmentosa, discussing the challenges of growing up with sight loss and the importance of community support. The episode delves into the unique adaptations of visually impaired rugby, including the use of an audible ball and modified rules, as well as the camaraderie and inclusivity within the sport. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>
VI rugby, or visually impaired rugby, is played with adaptations such as a ball that makes noise and a touch-based tackling system. The game is played seven-a-side, with two halves of 10 minutes each, and includes a classification system for players based on their level of visual impairment.
</li>
<li>
Aaron was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of five. His journey included learning to use a white cane at 17 and later getting a guide dog, which significantly impacted his independence and mobility.
</li>
<li>
The rugby community is described as inclusive and supportive, with Aaron emphasising the importance of camaraderie among players. He also highlighted the need for better education and awareness about disabilities in society.
</li>
<li>
Participation in visually impaired sports often requires significant travel and personal funding, as there is limited financial support available. Teams often rely on fundraising efforts to cover travel costs for competitions.
</li>
<li>
VI rugby is expanding internationally, with teams in several countries including England, Japan, and Ireland. Upcoming tournaments, such as the one in November, aim to showcase the sport and attract more players and spectators, with hopes of increasing participation, especially among women.
</li>
</ul>
BEST MOMENTS
"I think when you have a disability, you either go one of two ways. Either you get really frustrated and bitter about things, or you just kind of have to accept that this is how the world currently is." 
"I was about 12 when my parents told me the extent to which my sight loss could develop into one day. It was a lot to process." 
"I think there's still a lot to be done to educate society about people with various disabilities." 
"This will be the first time we've had an international tournament in England, and it will be a great opportunity for us to showcase our sport." 
VALUABLE RESOURCES
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878">https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878</a>
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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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!

Rugby with a Twist: The Unique Experience of Playing Visually Impaired Rugby

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!

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
<ul>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>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. </li>
<li>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.</li>
<li>Taking up space and claiming one's identity as a disabled person is crucial for self-empowerment. </li>
</ul>
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
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878">https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878</a>
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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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!

Disability in The US vs UK - Where is Better?

Brooke talks with Nana, who shares his unique perspective on living with a disability. Nana discusses his childhood experiences, including the moment he learned about his tracheostomy and how it shaped his understanding of himself.

The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating school systems that often lack proper support for disabled students, as well as the impact of societal perceptions on career choices. Nana emphasises the importance of resilience and self-advocacy, encouraging listeners to ask questions and challenge uncomfortable norms. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Disability is viewed as a unique entity rather than a limitation. This perspective emphasises the importance of individual experiences and how one chooses to define their own identity.
Growing up with a disability can lead to feelings of confusion and disconnect, especially when parents do not openly discuss the nature of the disability. Understanding one's condition can take time, often not fully realised until adolescence.
The educational system often lacks adequate support for students with disabilities. There can be significant gaps in understanding and resources, leading to periods of exclusion from school and a lack of tailored support.
Career paths can be influenced by one's disability, with many individuals gravitating towards roles that allow them to help others. Personal experiences can foster a desire to advocate for disabled individuals in the workforce.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think if I was to be in that era again, I would be very forthcoming and wanting to know why am I like this?" 

"I don't allow someone's negativity towards how I look or how I sound to determine how I walk through life." 

"I think now, because the buzzword of EDI is being flung around, we're being put in a position where, okay, we have to take this box." 

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!

Brooke talks with Nana, who shares his unique perspective on living with a disability. Nana discusses his childhood experiences, including the moment he learned about his tracheostomy and how it shaped his understanding of himself.
The conversation delves into the challenges of navigating school systems that often lack proper support for disabled students, as well as the impact of societal perceptions on career choices. Nana emphasises the importance of resilience and self-advocacy, encouraging listeners to ask questions and challenge uncomfortable norms. 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
<ul>
<li>Disability is viewed as a unique entity rather than a limitation. This perspective emphasises the importance of individual experiences and how one chooses to define their own identity.</li>
<li>Growing up with a disability can lead to feelings of confusion and disconnect, especially when parents do not openly discuss the nature of the disability. Understanding one's condition can take time, often not fully realised until adolescence.</li>
<li>The educational system often lacks adequate support for students with disabilities. There can be significant gaps in understanding and resources, leading to periods of exclusion from school and a lack of tailored support.</li>
<li>Career paths can be influenced by one's disability, with many individuals gravitating towards roles that allow them to help others. Personal experiences can foster a desire to advocate for disabled individuals in the workforce.</li>
</ul>
BEST MOMENTS
"I think if I was to be in that era again, I would be very forthcoming and wanting to know why am I like this?" 
"I don't allow someone's negativity towards how I look or how I sound to determine how I walk through life." 
"I think now, because the buzzword of EDI is being flung around, we're being put in a position where, okay, we have to take this box." 
VALUABLE RESOURCES
<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878">https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/disabled-and-proud/id1621152878</a>
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 &amp; 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 &amp; 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!

Journey to Self-Acceptance: Reflections on Disability Pride

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