Introduction to AccessibiliTEA

Episode 2: Times We Experienced Ableism

In Episode 2 of the AccessibiliTEA Podcast, Lauren and Kiersten open up about real-life experiences with ableism while living with Friedreich’s ataxia and other disabilities. From being mistaken as “drunk” in public to insensitive comments, inaccessible spaces, awkward interactions, and the emotional impact of constantly having to explain their disabilities, this episode dives into the realities many disabled people face every day.The conversation also highlights the importance of representation, accessibility, adaptive fashion and products, invisible disabilities, and how small acts of kindness and understanding can make a huge difference. Lauren and Kiersten share vulnerable personal stories, discuss frustrating public experiences, and react to powerful stories submitted by members of the disability community.This episode is honest, emotional, educational, and at times humorous — all with the goal of creating more awareness, understanding, and inclusion for people with disabilities.✨ Topics discussed:• Ableism and public misconceptions• Being mistaken as intoxicated because of disability symptoms• Invisible disabilities and mobility aids• Accessibility and adaptive products• Disability representation in media• How to respectfully interact with disabled individuals• Community-submitted ableism stories• Why advocacy and awareness matter🎙️ Follow AccessibiliTEA Podcast:Instagram & TikTok: @accessibilitea.podcastNew episodes every other Sunday at 6 PM Central.

Episode 1 - Our Diagnosis Story

Episode 1: Our Diagnosis Story | AccessibiliTEA Podcast ☕️ In our very first episode of the AccessibiliTEA Podcast, we’re sharing the beginning of our journeys — our diagnosis stories. What started as small, confusing symptoms turned into life-changing news: a diagnosis of Friedreich’s ataxia (FA), a rare, progressive neuromuscular disorder. From doctor visits and misdiagnoses to finally getting answers, we open up about the fear, uncertainty, and emotions that came with it all. We talk about what it felt like to go from being active, able-bodied athletes to navigating life with a disability, the challenges of not having answers, and the moment everything changed. We also share how we each coped differently, the impact on our mental health, and how finding community completely shifted our perspective. This episode is raw, honest, and just the beginning of creating a safe space to talk about disability, raise awareness, and connect through shared experiences. Whether you’re part of the disability community, newly diagnosed, a caregiver, or just here to learn — you’re welcome here. ☕️ New episodes bi weekly on Sundays 6pm central — don’t forget to follow and stay tuned.

Introduction to AccessibiliTEA

Welcome to the AccessibiliTEA Podcast with Lauren & Kiersten ☕️A space for real stories, real experiences, and real conversations about disability. We’re starting at the beginning—our diagnosis stories 💬Episode 1 drops Sunday, May 3rd at 6PM CT.