The Lucky Few
The Lucky Few
The Lucky Few Podcast
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Hey friends! Welcome to the Lucky Few Podcast where we are shifting the narrative by shouting the worth of people with Down syndrome. With your hosts, Heather Avis, Micha Boyett, and Mercedes Lara. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
217. The Things People Say
Friends, we’ve all been there, those cringy shoulders-up comments that catch us off guard and leave us wondering why people think saying certain things are ok. They leave us wondering how to respond and a lot of times regretting what we didn’t say. We chat about some of our cringy experiences, what we said (and wish we would have said) in the moment, and so much more. We can’t promise we have all (or any!) answers, but you know we have thoughts and experiences to share! This is a conversation you’re not going to want to miss! SHOW NOTES 88. (Un)learning the Advocacy Language 172. Defining Ableism, Allyship & Advocacy + Redefining "Inclusion" - ft. Dr. Priya Lalvani  197. Exposing The Roots (Racism, Ableism, Microagressions, + More) Woman’s Day article: 10 Things You Should Never Say to a Mother of a Child with Down Syndrome DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Thank you, Jack’s Basket for sponsoring this episode! EP 44 Shifting the Diagnosis Narrative w/Carissa Carroll from Jack's Basket EP 180 "You make me better" (An Interview with Carissa Carroll, Founder of Jack's Basket) HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jul 25, 2023
58 min
216. Continuing Affects Of The Pandemic On Inclusion In Our Schools (w/Common Ground Society)
It has been over three years since the Covid-19 pandemic began and today we are chatting about how our school systems have seen continued impact on students, teachers, and parents. Who better to chat with than Larkin O’Leary and Emily King, representatives of the Common Ground Society?! Larkin runs the nonprofit @common.ground.society, what started as “Just Two Moms” doing a presentation on Down syndrome in a preschool classroom has led to advocacy at over 90 different schools in 5 counties and a few trips to California’s capitol! Today she’s joined by Emily King, a presenter, Common Ground Society’s board treasurer, and a mother to a child with Down syndrome. We chat about the positive impact of inclusive teaching on students of all abilities, how we can work together to create meaningful change, and so much more. Friends, we’re so excited to have them on today chatting all about the incredible work they’re doing in our schools! --- SHOW NOTES Learn more about Common Ground Society Listen to Larkin O’Leary’s TedX Talk: Fostering Differences on Common Ground Listen to previous episodes with Common Ground Society: 70. The Power of "Just Two Moms" w/Jessica Hunter & Larkin O'Leary 91. Putting the "Social" In Social Distancing w/Jessica Hunter & Larkin O'Leary More episodes to check out: 67. Unpacking Privilege & Understanding Intersectionality w/Jalondra Davis 101. Jalondra Davis on Race, Disability, & Advocacy 94. IEPs during Covid-19, ft. IEP Lawyers Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie The Myth of Average Ted Talk mentioned in this episode DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jul 18, 2023
54 min
215. Disability Access Services At Theme Parks
Today we’re talking about our personal experiences using disability access services at theme parks! We know how fun (and stressful) day trips can be we’re sharing all our favorite tips and tricks for planning your next theme park adventure. From getting the most out of your access passes, to finding what restaurants offer food allergy-friendly options, our must-have items to pack for the day, and so much more! We’re sharing our personal experiences with using these services at Disney, Universal Studios, Knott’s Berry Farm, Sesame Place, and Legoland! Friends, this episode is a must-listen before making your next theme park plans! --- SHOW NOTES Disney  Sesame Place Knott’s Berry Farm Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Orlando Legoland New YorkLegoland California DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jul 11, 2023
43 min
214. Guardianship, Conservatorship, & Supported Decision-Making
Friends, what better conversation to have on an episode released on a holiday that celebrates America than to talk about the differences between Guardianship, Conservatorship, and Supported Decision-making? We have attorney and Executive Director of Massachusetts Advocates for Children, Anna Krieger here to help explain the differences and similarities between these options. Anna is a nationally recognized expert on Supported Decision-Making and has trained, advocated, and written widely on the topic alongside decision-makers and their supporters. We’re also joined by self-advocate Craig Kinney and his mom Sandy, who have chosen Supported Decision-Making and are sharing their experience with us today! We hope this episode helps you think about what next steps you may consider when deciding what is best for your family. --- SHOW NOTES The Center for Public Representation National Resource Center for Supported Decision Making For more information on Conservatorship, Guardianship, & Supported Decision Making by State Massachusetts Advocates for Children DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Thank you, Jack’s Basket for sponsoring this episode! EP 44 Shifting the Diagnosis Narrative w/Carissa Carroll from Jack's Basket EP 180 "You make me better" (An Interview with Carissa Carroll, Founder of Jack's Basket) HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! LET’S CHAT Email ⁠hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com⁠ with your questions and Good News for future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jul 4, 2023
1 hr 3 min
213. The Beauty & Challenges of Adaptive & Inclusive Programs
Today we’re talking about our personal experiences with adaptive and inclusive programs. We know both can be successful, we also know what's worked and what hasn’t worked for our kiddos. From basketball, baseball, dance, surfing, theater, gymnastics, ski lessons, soccer, and swim team, we’ve tried what seems like every activity imaginable! We’ve seen our kids thrive in both inclusive and adaptive programs, and we’ve also seen our kids face challenges with both. Let’s pause and realize that these spaces can be so beautiful but equally hard for our kiddos. We chat about how and when we step in and say something, and when we’ve learned to simply step away. No matter what kind of program works best for your child, there’s nothing better than seeing our kids thrive and develop relationships with friends of all abilities. No matter what season of finding the best activity or program for your child you’re in, we hope you know you’re not alone in the trial and error of finding just the right spaces for your incredible kids. --- SHOW NOTES Check out A Walk on Water Surfing  Check out Challengers Athletics  Check out YMCA Learn more about Adaptive Sports Related episodes: 85. Is Inclusion Always The Best Option? 172. Defining Ableism, Allyship & Advocacy + Redefining "Inclusion" - ft. Dr. Priya Lalvani DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jun 27, 2023
59 min
212. Working Together & Impacting Change w/ NDSC’s Jordan Kough
Friends, we’re so excited to have National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) Executive Director, Jordan Kough on the show today! He’s here to tell us what to expect at the 51st NDSC Convention, discuss the impact of the Down syndrome community working together, and so much more! We chat about the disability rights movement and how advocacy has created meaningful changes that have impacted policy changes at State and Federal levels. How coming together at NDSC Convention and participating in the advocacy boot camps, self-advocate sessions, educator’s conferences, and other workshops can give us the tools we need to be change-makers in our own communities. We know what amazing friendships we’ve made at past Convention’s and we hope to see you in Florida for this year’s NDSC Convention!! SHOW NOTES Check out NDSC  Call NDSC for more information or support: 1-800-232-6372 (Mon-Fri 9:00am-5:30pm EST) Learn more about the Educators Conference Join us at the 51st NDSC Convention in Orlando, FL July 20-23, 2023! Learn more about the late disability rights activist Judy Heumann DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jun 20, 2023
49 min
211. Connecting, Supporting, & Balancing It All (ft. The Husbands!)
Dads, father figures, this one’s for you! Today The Lucky Few Dads are taking over to chat about nurturing the connections with their kiddos with Down syndrome and what this journey of fatherhood has taught them so far. Josh, Andy, and Chris share what they’d tell their younger selves and how they’ve grown as fathers so far. Some of the changes they’ve made in their careers and family dynamics that have benefited their families. How important it is to normalize asking for support from friends and family. Looking for opportunities to get involved with their kiddos, being flexible while finding what works best for their family, and so much more. They take a moment to brag about their wives and share the superpowers of our three favorite ladies! Friends, you won’t expect their answers!! Happy Father’s Day to all the father figures out there advocating and learning from your kiddos every day! We see you and celebrate you!   --- SHOW NOTES Listen to EP 120 with Josh & Chris Listen to the Mom’s take on nurturing connections with our kiddos! More resources Josh, Chris, & Andy love: Check out D.A.D.S  Check out Fatherhood.gov  Check out Dad to Dad Podcast DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jun 13, 2023
47 min
210. Champions On & Off Screen: Madison Tevlin & Matthew Von Der Ahe
Today on the show we have two talented self-advocates and the stars of the movie Champions! Madison Tevlin and Matthew Von Der Ahe join us to chat about the audition process, working with Woody Harrelson, some behind the scenes secrets, and so much more! They tell us about their characters' sassy and hilarious attitudes and warning an explicit word or two may be used…ear muffs!! From voiceover acting, modeling, speaking at conferences, working at a restaurant, dancing and crafting these dynamic friends are keeping busy! We hear all about their plans for the future and can’t wait to see what’s next for these two. Friends, you don’t want to miss this fun and delightful episode! ----- SHOW NOTES Follow Madison Tevlin on Instagram Follow Matthew Von Der Ahe on Instagram Watch Champions Listen to our first interview with Madison Tevlin 184. Busting Myths About Down Syndrome - ft. Madison Tevlin DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
Jun 6, 2023
36 min
209. End of School Year Reflections
Let's give ourselves all a round of applause, high fives, and cheers. We've made it through another school year! We know each year comes with its challenges and triumphs, today we’re reflecting on the good, bad, and in between of the 2022-2023 school year. We catch you up on what grades our kiddos are finishing up and what next year has in store. We’re chatting about homeschooling, charter schools, our frustrations with IEP’s, placement testing, and more. Looking ahead to next year we give advice on what we could do differently and what we wouldn’t change. Join us as we talk through what has us feeling tired, frustrated, but hopeful. Remember friends, we’re cheering you on! --- SHOW NOTES 78. Building Trust (Not Barriers) w/Your Child's IEP Team 39. Back to School w/IEP Experts Vickie Brett & Amanda Selogie 131. BTS Pt 2 - Preparing for the School Year.. IEPS + Special Education w/Ashley Barlow 12. Education - So Happy to Learn with Mrs. Terry Brown Learn about Handwriting Without Tears DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
May 30, 2023
1 hr 9 min
208. Growing Through Uncomfortable Conversations (w/Ashley - TLFP Producer & Self-Advocate)
Friends, we recognize and appreciate that so many of you come to us for our open, honest, and candid conversations week after week. After seeing the response Heather was receiving over on @theluckyfewoffical under a post that she wouldn’t be celebrating an abled person asking a disabled person to prom, we knew this topic deserved another conversation. We also knew the conversation deserved to include a person with disabilities. Our producer and self-advocate Ashley Fraccalossi joins us for this candid conversation on honoring people with disabilities and when that line can get blurred or crossed. She helps break down with us what inspiration p*rn means in the disabled community, unconscious bias, and how her own experiences with disability have shaped her views on this topic. We’re grateful to not only hear from her today, but to continue this important conversation with all of you. May we all continue to learn, listen, and grow from conversations like this together. --- SHOW NOTES We first talked about this topic on EP 169 The Harm in Using People with Disabilities As "Inspiration" in Clickbait Viral Videos Learn more about unconscious bias Watch Stella Young’s Ted Talk Read Heather’s blog post, “Why Kindness and Good Intentions Are Not Enough” DISCOUNT CODE Friends, grab your narrative shifting gear over on The Lucky Few Merch Shop and use code PODCAST for 10% off! LET’S CHAT Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News for future episodes. HELP US SHIFT THE NARRATIVE Interested in partnering with The Lucky Few Podcast as a sponsor? Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com for more information! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theluckyfewpod/support
May 23, 2023
1 hr 14 min
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