Born Fabulous: Recent Episodes
Greta Harrison
Each episode is an In depth conversation with parents of accomplished individuals who have disabilities, or successful self-advocates. These individuals and families dream big and have high expectations. These episodes will help families, educators, administrators, and non profits continue progress including people with disabilities in our schools and communities by increasing awareness, raising expectations, and breaking stereotypes. Visit us on www.bornfabulouspodcast.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
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What happens when the dreams you have for your children shift dramatically? June and Jim Zoll, along with Melody and Bob Ruppel, share their heartfelt stories of raising young adults with Down syndrome and the transformative role of advocates like Lisa Hotelen and organizations such as LifeWorks. Hear them recount their initial uncertainties and the pivotal moments that helped them embrace their children's aspirations for independence. Melody discusses the importance of focusing on potential positive outcomes rather than lingering fears, while June emphasizes the necessity of supporting the lives their children hope for, rather than clinging to initial visions of their future.
Ever wondered what love looks like between two people with Down syndrome? Meet Kristen and James, a truly inspirational married couple who highlight the beauty of their unique relationship. In this episode, we explore the dynamics of their marriage and the deep love they share. We also touch on the evocative lyrics of Melissa Riggio's "Love is a Potion," brought to life by Rachel Fuller's stunning musical interpretation. Don't miss this chance to be moved by the stories of the Zolls, the Ruppels, Kristen, and James. Their experiences offer invaluable insights into the challenges and triumphs of fostering independence and nurturing love in the lives of young adults with intellectual disabilities.
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What's the magic formula for a memorable wedding that honors family traditions and supports future financial stability for children with Down syndrome? Join us on this heartwarming episode of the Born Fabulous Podcast where we share the touching journey of James Zoll and Kristen Ruppel's engagement through the loving voices of their parents, June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel. Bob recalls the unforgettable dinner where James nervously asked for Kristen's hand in marriage, a cherished Ruppel family tradition. Meanwhile, Melody and Bob paint a vivid picture of Kristen's proposal and the unique considerations involved in planning their joyous celebration. From the significance of family rituals to the excitement of uniting two wonderful families, this episode emphasizes the delicate balance between wedding expenses and future financial planning for their beloved children.
The conversation doesn't stop at the wedding. We dive deeper into the dynamics of James and Kristen's relationship and the supportive roles their families play in nurturing their love. With insights from their external therapist, Mary Heed, we explore the importance of effective communication, conflict resolution, and maintaining independence in their marriage. Topics like practical birth control and navigating parental involvement are discussed with a focus on mutual respect and support. Tune in for an episode filled with touching stories and invaluable insights into the complexities and joys of nurturing a loving relationship while honoring family traditions and planning for the future.
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As parents, we're wired to worry about our children's future—what if that future includes an intellectual disability? This week, we're joined by June and Jim Zoll, alongside Melody and Bob Ruppel, who open their hearts about raising children with Down syndrome. Their stories are not just tales of parenting, but of fostering independence in James and Kristen, a married couple proving that love knows no boundaries. We uncover the delicate dance of support and autonomy, where groceries become a symbol of self-reliance and a book club reflects the triumph of adaptability. Listen to the remarkable journey of these young adults as they carve out their space in the world of interdependence, and how their parents balance the art of letting go with the instinct to hold on.
When the world turned upside down during the pandemic, so did the support systems for individuals like James and Kristen. Hear how their network of care pivoted to virtual platforms, keeping the essence of their routines alive. For Kristen, a book club that blossomed online is now a beacon of her growing independence. Discover how the Ruppels and the Zolls navigated the shifting sands of staffing, living arrangements, and preserving the sanctity of marriage under one roof. Our conversation is a patchwork of resilience, creativity, and love, stitched together by families who demonstrate just how flexible and robust the fabric of care can be. Tune in to this episode that doesn't just talk about overcoming challenges but celebrates the victories that often go unsung.
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Have you ever witnessed true love that not only defies the odds but also melts your heart? That's the story of James and Kristen, a delightful couple living with Down syndrome, whose marriage is a beacon of hope and joy. As we chat with their parents, June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel, we're swept into a narrative that celebrates the couple's five-year journey through work, creativity, and community involvement. From Kristen's dedication to assisting in a kindergarten class and volunteering at a senior center to James's journey from smoothie store to local family brewery server, their stories are a testament to the power of inclusivity and determination. The 'four dudes' and their charity beer brewing only add to the rich tapestry of these remarkable lives, blending independence and interdependence in a symphony of love and support.
When it comes to nurturing the path to independence for young adults like James and Kristen, what does it take? Our conversation with their families unveils the humor, the challenges, and the unwavering commitment required to support these milestones. Dating, cohabitation, and the intricacies of marriage are all navigated with laughter and love, yet backed by the sobering reality of managing support systems and securing funding for independent living. The Ruppels and Zolls share their heartfelt experiences, from the light-hearted moments to the strategic family alignment and self-advocacy, painting a picture of what it means to arrange a life of autonomy for those with intellectual disabilities. Their journey is not just their own but a beacon for others, lighting the way with stories that are as genuine as they are inspiring.www.bornfabulouspodcast.com
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Navigating life with young adults who have intellectual disabilities can be a complex dance of fostering independence and cherishing interdependence. This heartfelt narrative unfolds as we reconnect with June and Jim Zoll alongside Melody and Bob Ruppel, who unveil the empowering decisions that shaped their children's growth into well-rounded individuals. Their stories breathe life into the everyday moments that, while often overlooked, form the bedrock of capability and joy. By integrating their children into family life and holding them to equal academic standards, our guests demonstrate that the pursuit of normalcy isn't merely about blending in—it's about standing out and thriving.
As the conversation sweeps us into the vibrant tapestry of school years and life beyond, the parents reflect on the milestones they celebrated and the support they yearned for. Hear how the children's participation in regular life events like sports, proms, and graduations has woven a richer narrative of inclusion and accomplishment. The journey doesn't pause after high school; the exuberance continues through community college adventures in dance and sign language, culminating in the blossoming of a beautiful relationship. This episode not only salutes these remarkable young adults but also previews the next chapter: James and Kristen's personal and professional strides, set to the resonant lyrics of Melissa Riggio performed by Rachel Fuller. Join us as we honor these narratives that reshape the landscape of what's possible, one heartfelt story at a time.
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Have you ever witnessed a moment that beautifully defies the odds? That's precisely what we unravel in our latest conversation with June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel, as we celebrate the extraordinary lives led by their children, James Zoll and Kristen Ruppel. This pair of young adults, bound by love and a shared experience of Down syndrome, take us on a journey marked by achievements in sports, arts, and the blossoming of a heartfelt romance. Their story is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to the power of inclusion and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.
Together, we reflect on James's vibrant involvement in the Special Olympics and the pivotal role sports played in enhancing his social skills and self-esteem. His segue into high school extracurriculars, such as chorus and varsity basketball, exemplifies the importance of inclusive opportunities. Kristen's artistic pursuits, beginning in a K-8 arts magnet school and evolving through her high school experience, illuminate her journey towards independence and highlight the significant strides she has made. The narrative of how a summer of friendship turned into a lifetime of love, marked by James's touching birthday proposal, underscores not just the individual stories of James and Kristen, but the universal longing for connection. Join us as we discuss the vital balance between integration and fostering relationships within the disability community, and witness firsthand the creation of initiatives that pave the way for a more inclusive world.
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Have you ever witnessed the transformative power of a community that opens its arms to every member, no matter the challenges they face? That's the heartwarming reality June and Jim Zoll, and Melody and Bob Ruppel have lived as they raised their children, James and Kristen, who both have Down syndrome. In our latest episode, we're honored to invite these exceptional parents to share their compelling narratives. They reveal the formidable struggles and uplifting victories of advocating for inclusive education, where every child is given the chance to thrive. Their stories highlight the meaningful changes that occur when children are embraced for who they are, as James's evolution from 'Jimmy' to 'James' poignantly exemplifies.
Our conversation isn't just a journey through the halls of academia; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of families striving for independence and interdependence for their loved ones. The Zolls and Ruppels offer insights into the importance of forging strong partnerships with teachers, fostering understanding among peers, and the crucial role that parental advocacy plays in shaping a fulfilling educational experience. Listen as we celebrate Kristen's blossoming in a performing arts magnet school, and James's trailblazing path to full inclusion from elementary school onwards. This episode isn't just a narrative—it's a blueprint for hope, determination, and the belief that an inclusive world is not only possible but imperative.
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How do you navigate the joys and challenges of raising young adults with intellectual disabilities? Join us for this heartwarming episode of Born Fabulous, where we uncover the inspiring stories of two extraordinary couples, Jim and June Soule and Melody and Bob Ruppel. You'll hear Melody's journey managing government contracts at WestEd, where her professional mission of full inclusion for special needs children was deeply influenced by her personal experiences. June shares the emotional rollercoaster of welcoming their son James after a long struggle to have a child, emphasizing the vital role family support plays in fostering independence for young adults with Down syndrome.
In a candid conversation, Melody and Bob Ruppel open up about their initial reactions to their daughter Kristen's diagnosis of Down syndrome and the early interventions that shaped her development. Bob's immediate sense of joy contrasts with Melody's initial challenges, offering an authentic glimpse into their parenting journey. Don't miss our preview of upcoming episodes that focus on James and Kristen's educational paths, highlighting advocacy for full inclusion and the complexities of IEP meetings. Tune in for heartfelt anecdotes and valuable insights on the importance of community, inclusion, and unwavering family support.
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Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode. Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the last of three episodes. Micah and Katherine talk about his strong Circle of Support, goals for the future, technology that helps Micah, social media, advice, sweet and funny stories, and more.
Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker, and respected disability rights advocate. Micah has an intellectual disability. Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them. Katherine does not have a disability.
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Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode. Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the second of three episodes. Micah and Katherine share her role as support staff, the concept of paid neighbors, what makes great support staff, what is an ideal roommate, how Micah's parents raised him to be strong and independent, and more.
Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker, and respected disability rights advocate. Micah has an intellectual disability. Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them. Katherine does not have a disability.
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Micah Fialka- Feldman and Katherine Sanderson are interviewed together in this episode. Katherine is a critical member of Micah's support staff. This is the first of three episodes. Micah updates listeners on his life since his episodes in season 2 of Born Fabulous Podcast. Micah and Katherine talk about getting through the pandemic, Micah having Covid, share an update on Tori from season 2, Micah's job, Micah's new house, roommates and more.
Micah is best known as one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a sought after keynote speaker, and respected disability rights advocate. Micah has an intellectual disability. Katherine has experience in the disability and medical fields, and strongly believes in "working with" young adults instead of "for" them. Katherine does not have a disability.
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Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman continue their discussion about the sibling perspective, sharing a very poignant quote by their daughter Emma. They also talk about fighting and loving hard, share many resources, give some advice, and sprinkle in more sweet stories. Their wisdom, advice, and experiences have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies.
Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet.
Richard and Janice and the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
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Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman discuss Micah's ability to reach out to others, generational sense of security, giving a teacher hope, interdependence, how this journey has made lifelong profound personal changes, a sibling's perspective, and much more. Every one of Janice and Rich's episodes are impactful, but this one has even more profound moments. Their wisdom, advice, and stories have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies.
Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet.
Richard and Janice are the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
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Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman discuss Micah's upcoming book, helping families develop their stories, the importance of revisiting-reflecting-reigniting, thinking "outside the box", turnover in support teams, interdependence as the goal, the profound effect of true inclusion on society, and much more. Their wisdom, advice, and stories have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies.
Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet.
Richard and Janice and the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
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Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman discuss their guiding principles, Micah's living situation, the hard work of building and maintaining circles and community support, breaking the silence, inclusion's effect on society, and much more. Their wisdom, advice, and stories have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies.
Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet.
Richard and Janice and the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
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Janice Fialka and Richard Feldman discuss inclusion.com, how they got through the pandemic as a family, overcoming individualism, learning how to ask, letting go, and much more of interest to families of children and young adults with intellectual disabilities. Their wisdom, advice, and stories have golden nuggets for parents of younger children as well as adults with disabilities, and of course community allies.
Though they both say they are retired, Janice and Richard continue to be sought after presenters and public speakers on issues relating to disability, inclusion, building community, advocacy, and more. Janice is also the author of four books, and a poet.
Richard and Janice and the proud parents of Micah Fialka-Feldman, one of the stars of the acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
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Kayla McKeon and her roommate, Elyssa Stallcup, discuss a wide array of topics including the shortage of mentors, making their apartment their home, sincere advice, healthy communication, and more. Their 50/50 commitment to their friendship and living situation is a wonderful, organic model for many.
Kayla is best known as the first professional lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, sought after keynote speaker, community college graduate, and tireless advocate. Elyssa is her good friend first and foremost, her mentor, and the sibling of young adults with Autism.
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Kayla McKeon and her roommate, Elyssa Stallcup, discuss chores and their chore chart, Kayla's version of supported decision making, different circles of support, and more. Kayla is best known as the first professional lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, sought after keynote speaker, community college graduate, and tireless advocate. Elyssa is her good friend and mentor. She also has siblings with Autism.
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Kayla McKeon and Elyssa Stallcup are interviewed together in this episode, because they are roommates. Kayla updates listeners on her life now since they heard her in season 2 of Born Fabulous Podcast. Kayla and Elyssa enlighten us on their planned, and patient journey to become roommates, and find the right apartment. They talk about their relationship and give advice, such as the importance of "Me Time".
Kayla is best known as the first professional lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, popular keynote speaker, and tireless advocate. Elyssa is a mentor for adults with disabilities, a sibling of young adults with Autism, and is also Kayla's good friend. They are roommates by choice, sharing everything 50/50. Elyssa does not have a disability.
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Patti McKeon, Kayla McKeon's mother, talks about Kayla's travel and work at NDSS, how she speaks for those who cannot, how it feels to have Kayla happily settled in her own place, how her family encouraged Kayla, and more. She also shares a few powerful quotes that helped them, and hopefully will help others. Kayla McKeon is the first professional lobbyist with Down syndrome, a podcast host, a sought after keynote speaker, and a tireless advocate.
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Patti McKeon discusses her adult daughter, Kayla McKeon's, independence journey. She delves into how her family navigated through Covid, how Kayla picked out her apartment, Kayla's unique living situation, Circles of Determination and more. Kayla is the first professional lobbyist with Down syndrome, a sought after public speaker, a podcast host, and tireless advocate.
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Sean McElwee is best known as one of the stars of A & E's Emmy winning series "Born This Way". He owns a t-shirt company called Seanese, is a keynote speaker, and a strong self-advocate. Sean has Down syndrome and hearing loss in one ear.
In this episode Sean updates the audience on his life, talks about the benefits and pitfalls of his independence, how he stayed safe in the pandemic, his support circle and more. He also gives some profound advice to other twenty somethings working towards independence.
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Sandra McElwee, mother of "Born This Way" star Sean McElwee, author of three books, and independent facilitator with Empower Person Centered Pans, discusses the rewards and pitfalls of independence, supported decision making, an update from the last episode of "Born This Way", tips for hiring staff, advice, and more. Sandra's son Sean has Down syndrome and hearing loss in one ear.
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Sandra McElwee, mother of "Born This Way" star Sean McElwee, author of three books, and independent facilitator with Empower Person Centered Pans, discusses what she does as a facilitator and gives some great out of the box examples of young adults with intellectual disabilities working towards independence. Her son Sean has Down syndrome and has hearing loss in one ear.
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This is the last of an 8 part interview with Micah Fialka-Feldman and his best friend, Tori Cedar. Micah and Tori talk about Micah's early recognition of his own civil rights, starting with going in the same door as his peers in elementary school. They touch on IQ scores, cvil rights for people with disabilities, and more issues. Micah is best known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". Micah has an intellectual disability. Tori does not have a disability. This is the last episode of season 2 of Born Fabulous Podcast.
Micah Fialka-Feldman and his best friend, Tori Cedar, talk about a powerful letter their friend Amanda sent describing her friendship with Micah. This letter could be seen as a template for friendship. Micah and Tori also talk about dating issues for people with disabilities. Micah is best known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". He has an intellectual disability. Tori does not have a disability.
Micah Fialka-Feldman and his best friend, Tori Cedar. share some friendship moments and sweet stories. Micah is best known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film, "Intelligent Lives". He has an intellectual disability. Tori does not have a disability.
Micah Fialka-Feldman and his best friend, Tori Cedar, share different views of friendship and talk about an "Intelligent Lives" screening. Micah is best known as one of the stars of "Intelligent Lives". He has an intellectual disability. Tori does not have a disability.
Micah Fialka-Feldman and his best friend Tori Cedar talk about his strong and extensive Circle of Support. Supported decision making and independence is important to Micah. He has had a Circle of Support since elementary school. He is now an adult in his 30s. Micah is best known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film, "Intelligent lives". Micah has an intellectual disability.
Micah Fialka-Feldman, and his best friend Tori Cedar, discuss some key moments in their friendship and why they are allies. Micah is well-known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film "Intelligent Lives". He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a keynote speaker, and an author. Micah has an intellectual disability. Tori Cedar is a graduate student working on her doctorate. Micah and Tori have been best friends for six years. This is the second of an eight part series that covers a variety of topics from the viewpoint of best friends.
Get to know Micah Fialka-Feldman, and his best friend Tori Cedar, in this episode. Micah is well-known as one of the stars of Dan Habib's acclaimed film "Intelligent Lives". He is a teaching assistant at Syracuse University, a keynote speaker, and an author. Micah has an intellectual disability. Tori Cedar is a graduate student working on her doctorate. Micah and Tori have been best friends for six years. This is the first of an eight part series that covers a variety of topics from the viewpoint of best friends.
This is the last of a four part interview with Kayla McKeon and Rachel Burns. Kayla McKeon is famous for being the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, keynote speaker, and college student. She and Rachel Burns have been best friends for approximately 18 years. Rachel does not have a disability. In this episode they will talk about Kayla's extraordinary and unique employment journey.
This is the third of a four part interview with Kayla McKeon and Rachel Burns. Kayla McKeon is famous for being the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, keynote speaker, and college student. She and Rachel Burns have been best friends for approximately 18 years. Rachel does not have a disability. In this episode they will share their advice, mottos, and goals with candor and love.
This is the second of a four part interview with Kayla McKeon and Rachel Burns. Kayla McKeon is famous for being the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, keynote speaker, and college student. She and Rachel Burns have been best friends for approximately 18 years. Rachel does not have a disability. In this episode they will talk about some big moments in their lives. Their friendship will warm your heart.
This is the first of a four part interview with Kayla McKeon and Rachel Burns. Kayla McKeon is famous for being the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome. She is also a podcast host, keynote speaker, and college student. She and Rachel Burns have been best friends for approximately 18 years. Rachel does not have a disability. Get to know them both in this episode. Their friendship will warm your heart.
Sean McElwee and Sean Couevas, both stars of A & E's groundbreaking show "Born This Way", share their close and unique friendship. In this episode they share stories, advice, brotherly love, and talk about the Emmys. They are both sweet and funny. Sean McElwee owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, stars in his own YouTube show, "The Sean Show", and is a keynote speaker. Sean McElwee has Down syndrome. Sean Couevas is his best friend. He does not have a disability.
Sean McElwee and Sean Couevas, both stars of A & E's groundbreaking show "Born This Way", share their close and unique friendship. In this episode they share stories, advice, and the importance of inclusion. They share stories that are both sweet and funny. Sean McElwee owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, stars in his own YouTube show, "The Sean Show", and is a keynote speaker. Sean McElwee has Down syndrome. Sean Couevas is his best friend. He does not have a disability.
Sean McElwee and Sean Couevas, both stars of A & E's groundbreaking show "Born This Way", share their close and unique friendship. In this episode you will hear why they consider themselves family. They share stories that are both sweet and funny. Sean McElwee owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, stars in his own YouTube show, "The Sean Show", and is a keynote speaker. Sean McElwee has Down syndrome. Sean Couevas is his best friend. He does not have a disability.
Sean McElwee and Sean Couevas, both stars of A & E's groundbreaking show "Born This Way", share their close and unique friendship. In this episode you will hear how they met, and funny stories that will help you get to know them. Sean McElwee owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, stars in his own YouTube show, "The Sean Show", and is a keynote speaker. Sean McElwee has Down syndrome. Sean Couevas is his best friend. He does not have a disability.
This is the last of a seven part interview about self-advocate Tim Harris and Ashten Mizell's friendship. In this episode Ashten wanted to share just how important Tim's friendship was to her as a vulnerable freshman in high school. Their extraordinary friendship is now twenty years old. Tim Harris is famous for being the first person with Down syndrome to own a restaurant. Ashten Mizell does not have a disability.
Self-advocate Tim Harris and his best friend Ashten Mizell talk about their extraordinary twenty year friendship. Their journey is full of funny stories and love. In this episode they sing their friendship theme song, "Lean on Me", give some advice, and talk about their long-term goals. Tim Harris is famous for being the first person with Down syndrome to own a restaurant. Ashten Mizell does not have a disability.
Self-advocate Tim Harris and his best friend Ashten Mizell share funny stories and Tim's profound impact on others. Their twenty year friendship is close and profound. Tim Harris is famous for being the first person with Down syndrome to own a restaurant. It was called Tim's Place and served breakfast, lunch, and hugs. Ashten Mizell does not have a disability.
Self-advocate Tim Harris and his best friend Ashten Mizell talk about many special moments, milestones, in their friendship. Tim Harris is famous for being the first person with Down syndrome to own his own restaurant, Tim's Place. He is now a successful keynote speaker. Ashten does not have a disability. Tim and Ashten have been best friends for twenty years.
In this episode Tim Harris and his best friend Ashten Mizell talk about their very close, life-long friendship and how they met. They also share some funny stories, like their "tutu" story. Tim is famous for owning Tim's Place, a restaurant that served hugs on its menu. He is now a successful keynote speaker. Tim Has Down syndrome. His friend Ashten does not have a disability.
In this episode Jeannie Harris gives great parental insight into the life of her son Tim Harris. She shares stories from his restaurant, talks about friendships, gives advice, and much more. Jeannie's son Tin owned his own restaurant, Tim's Place, for five years. He is now a sought after public speaker. Tim happens to have Down syndrome.
Jeannie Harris discusses her son Tim's transition years in high school, his college experience, and his successful life now. Tim is famous for owning Tim's Place, a restaurant that listed hugs on the menu. Tim has travelled extensively with his speaking career, meeting many wonderful people like President and Mrs. Obama. Tim happens to have Down syndrome.
Jeannie Harris discusses her son Tim's school years. She gives stories of inclusion and exclusion all leading up to the point where she was ready to 'let Tim go'. Tim owned Tim's Place, a restaurant that served hugs on the menu. He became famous for collecting over 70,000 hugs and meeting great people like President and Mrs. Obama. Tim has a successful speaking career now. Tim happens to have Down syndrome.
This episode has a mix of stories from Jeannie Harris about her son Tim Harris. The stories cover his birth all the way to dating and his hopes and dreams. Tim is famous for owning Tim's Place, a restaurant that listed hugs on the menu. Tim has traveled extensively and met very interesting people like President and Mrs. Obama. He currently has a successful public speaking career. This episode truly has something for everyone. Enjoy!
Jeannie Harris is the mother of Tim Harris. Tim is famous for owning Tim's Place, a restaurant that had hugs on the menu. Tim has traveled extensively, and met many wonderful people like President and Mrs. Obama. Tim has a successful public speaking career now. He happens to have Down syndrome. In this episode Jeannie talks about Tim's current success and status, as well as the later teen years that led to this point. She shares great stories that show profound points and make you smile at the same time.
Sandra McElwee is the mother of Sean McElwee. Sean is a cast member of A & E's Emmy winning show Born This Way. Sean also owns Seanese which is a t-shirt company, travels extensively for public speaking, and has a part - time job. Sean happens to have Down syndrome. In this episode Sandra talks about her faith beginning this parenting journey, Sean's goals and dreams, and the need for more full diversity in all forms of media. Sandra is honest, always laughing, and full of stories. This episode has strong appeal for families, self -advocates with disabilities, general and special educators, non profit leaders and staff, and anyone in the entertainment industry.
This is the third part of a four part conversation with Sandra McElwee, the mother of Sean McElwee, Sean is an actor on A& E's Emmy winning series Born this Way, owns a t-shirt company called Seanese, and does extensive public speaking. Sean has Down syndrome. Sandra is the author of three five star rated books about Sean's journey, and is a well respected mentor to many families. In this episode Sandra tells stories of Sean's inclusion and exclusion in school, with honestly and humor. She talks about friendship and the beginning of Sean's motto, "It could happen!" This is a powerful episode for families, teachers, administrators, and non profits working in the employment fields to hear.
This is part two of a four part conversation with Sandra McElwee, the mother of Sean McElwee. Sean is an actor on the A & E Emmy winning series Born This Way. He also owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, does extensive public speaking, and has a part time job. Sean happens to have Down syndrome. Sandra is a mentor to many parents behind her, and has written three five star rated books. In this episode Sandra tells stories related to various goals Sean has had over the years. With wit and honesty, she addresses his transition from high school, jobs, and how Seanese started.
This is the first of a four part in-depth conversation with Sandra McElwee, the mother of Sean McElwee. Sean is a cast member of A & E's Emmy Award winning series Born This Way, which has already had four seasons. Sean also owns Seanese, a t-shirt company, and is a frequent keynote speaker. In this episode Sandra talks about Sean's birth, his early years, and beyond. She shares stories that show his perseverance, and hers, in overcoming obstacles like speech clarity, and discrimination.
The last part of a conversation with Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes & Noble, and his wife Laura, a retired educator, about the fascinating life of their daughter Melissa. Melissa was a published author, self-advocate, and role model. She happened to have Down syndrome. Melissa passed away in 2008 at age 20. The Riggios discuss Melissa's place in history books, more about her writing, and advice for young parents. Melissa's spirit and legacy live on in many ways, thanks to her drive, and her family's dedication to keep improving the lives of so many.
This is the third part of a conversation with Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes & Noble, and his wife Laura, a retired educator, about the inspiring life of their daughter Melissa. Melissa was a published author, self-advocate, and role model. She happened to have Down syndrome. Melissa passed away in 2008 at age 20. The Riggios discuss some of Melissa's better known accomplishments in writing, including her lyrics to two songs. Social highlights, their wonderful family, and the best advice they ever received are also mentioned. High expectations, increasing awareness, and breaking stereotypes are evident throughout Melissa's life and are still part of her legacy.
Continuing a conversation with Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes & Noble, and his wife Laura, about the wonderful life of their daughter Melissa. Melissa was a published author, self-advocate, and role model. She happened to have Down syndrome. Melissa passed away in 2008 at age 20. In part 2, the Riggios discuss Melissa's life in high school and the often forgotten transition piece that starts before a student with disabilities graduates. College, employment, and independent living are discussed, along with inspiring examples.
An in depth conversation with Steve Riggio, former CEO of Barnes and Noble, and his wife Laura, about the amazing life of their daughter Melissa. Melissa was a published writer and self-advocate who happened to have Down syndrome. Melissa passed away in 2008 at age 20. In part 1, the Riggios discuss Melissa's life from birth through elementary school. They give an honest parent perspective of issues that are very relevant today, from the professional delivery of a disability diagnosis at birth, to the complicated reality of including a child with an intellectual disability in school.
Laura and Steve Riggio are the parents of Melissa Riggio, who was a published author, and a strong self-advocate. Laura is a retired educator, and Steve Riggio is the former CEO of Barnes & Noble. In this short clip, Laura Riggio gives an honest parental perspective on including students with disabilities in school. Born Fabulous will be launched March 29, 2019.