Walk and Roll Live-Disability Stories

"Raj Garg: From Mumbai to Mastering the Court and the Arts"

Join us for a conversation with Raj Garg, a multifaceted individual balancing careers in software engineering and creative arts while excelling as an adaptive sports athlete. Diagnosed with polio at the age of 4, Raj's journey spans continents and disciplines, from his early years in Mumbai, India, to becoming a Triumph Athlete of the Year in the U.S. Alongside his passion for wheelchair tennis and football, Raj is a songwriter using AI to bring his creations to life and a dedicated video editor. We explore his life as a single father, his personal and professional milestones, and the resilience that defines his path.
Discover how Raj redefines what it means to lead a fulfilling, multifaceted life with authenticity and purpose. Walk and Roll Live Raj Garg 

Empowering Through Education: Meghan Kennedy on Epilepsy Awareness and Advocacy

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live - Disability Stories, we sit down with Meghan Kennedy from Epilepsy Education Everywhere. Meghan shares her personal journey and the organization’s mission to provide essential education and resources on epilepsy. From dispelling myths to teaching seizure first aid, Meghan discusses the impactful programs, advocacy efforts, and community outreach that make a difference for individuals with epilepsy. Join us as we explore the powerful ways this organization is fostering understanding, support, and change. Walk and Roll Live Epilepsy Education Everywhere 

"Life After Limb Loss: A Conversation with Luis Ovando on Amputee Peer Support"

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we sit down with Luis Ovando, a dedicated peer counselor and member of Amputee Connection. Luis shares his personal experiences as an amputee and discusses the crucial role of peer support in navigating life after limb loss. From practical resources to emotional guidance, Luis offers insight into the community and services available to amputees and their families. This episode sheds light on the realities faced by amputees, the importance of connection, and the meaningful impact of shared experiences in building resilience and independence. Walk and Roll Live Amputee Connection 

Navigating Employment & Entrepreneurship with a Disability: Doug & Addie Share Their Stories

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live - Disability Stories with Doug and Addie, our scheduled guest couldn’t make it, so Doug and Addie took the reins and dived into a topic close to their hearts: the journey of employment and entrepreneurship with a disability. Join us as they open up about their personal experiences, sharing the challenges, triumphs, and insights that come with building a career and pursuing business ventures while navigating life with a disability. Whether you’re exploring job opportunities or considering starting your own business, Doug and Addie offer stories, advice, and inspiration to guide you along the way. Walk and Roll Live 

Breaking Barriers in HIV Outreach: A Conversation with Curtis Smith of TruEvolution

Join Walk and Roll Live as we sit down with Curtis Smith, Outreach, Linkage, and Testing Manager at TruEvolution, to discuss the vital work being done to combat HIV within underserved communities. Curtis shares insights on the organization's innovative approaches to HIV prevention, the challenges of reaching marginalized populations, and the power of community health initiatives. Learn how TruEvolution is making a lasting impact on health equity and LGBTQ+ advocacy. Walk and Roll Live TruEvolution 
SEO Keywords: HIV outreach, TruEvolution, Curtis Smith, health equity, LGBTQ+ advocacy, HIV prevention.

"Driving Through Adversity: Karah Behrend’s Adaptive Journey"

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we sit down with Karah Behrend, a retired USAF Senior Airman, professional rally driver, and TikTok sensation, to explore her incredible journey from military service to adaptive sports and content creation. Karah shares her experiences as a quadriplegic athlete, her groundbreaking invention of adaptive driving hand controls, and her powerful advocacy for people with disabilities. Join us as we dive into her competitive spirit, viral videos, and how she continues to inspire others to embrace life’s challenges with courage and humor. Walk and Roll Live 

"From Grief to Advocacy: Lauren Burke-Hodge’s Journey of Resilience and Community Building"

In this heartfelt episode of Walk and Roll Live, Doug & Addie sit down with Lauren Burke-Hodge, a dedicated advocate for people with disabilities and a mother who has faced extraordinary challenges. Lauren shares her deeply personal story of raising her son Tyler, who was diagnosed with ADHD and Oppositional Defiance Disorder, and the profound impact his struggles—and eventual tragic loss—had on her life. Despite facing immense grief, Lauren found strength and healing through her work with PossAbilities, a program at Loma Linda University Health that supports individuals with disabilities. Join us as Lauren discusses her journey from personal hardship to becoming a beacon of hope and community building for others. Walk and Roll Live 

"DME Challenges: Ruth Maldonado of EZ Mobility Shares Her Journey and Personal Story"

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we sit down with Ruth Maldonado, founder of EZ Mobility, to explore how she turned her passion for helping others into a thriving business. Ruth shares the inspiring story behind EZ Mobility, the challenges people with disabilities face in finding the right medical equipment, and how her company is making a difference in their lives. We also dive into Ruth’s personal journey as a mother, discussing her son’s experience with vision loss starting in high school and how it has shaped her approach to accessibility.
Whether you’re interested in mobility solutions, entrepreneurship, or the challenges faced by families adjusting to a disability, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Join us as Ruth Maldonado shares her expertise and heartfelt story. Walk and Roll Live 
Keywords: EZ Mobility, Ruth Maldonado, durable medical equipment, accessibility, mobility challenges, vision loss, blindness, personal story, disability, assistive devices, accessibility entrepreneur

Empowering Independence: Guide Dogs of the Desert on Walk and Roll Live

Join us on this episode of Walk and Roll Live as we spotlight Guide Dogs of the Desert, an organization transforming lives by providing expertly trained guide dogs to individuals with visual impairments. Learn about their founding, the rigorous guide dog training process, and how they match dogs with students. We’ll also dive into their volunteer programs, student support services, and future goals for expanding their life-changing work. Discover how they’re fostering independence and mobility in the disability community. Walk and Roll Live 

A Delayed Challenge: Zack Wentz's Journey to Recovery and Advocacy

This week's episode of Walk and Roll Live - Disability Stories features Zack Wentz, a spinal cord injury (SCI) survivor with a unique story. Unlike most injuries with immediate effects, Zack's injury was delayed, creating unexpected challenges in his life. Hear his revealing journey of recovery, his return to competitive sports, and his mission to make a major university more accessible for all. Special guest host Addie Rich joins Doug for this fascinating and genuine conversation. Tune in for a story of resilience, determination, and advocacy! Walk and Roll Live