Walk and Roll Live-Disability Stories

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we sit down with Riverside advocate Rene Rojo, whose journey is a powerful example of turning lived experience into meaningful change. From his early days growing up in Riverside to studying public speaking and communications, Rene discovered the power of his voice — and he’s been using it ever since. As a long-time representative and Board of Trustees member with Inland Regional Center, Rene brings a unique and essential perspective: he serves not only as a leader, but also as a client. For over 14 years, he has helped shape programs, advocate for resources, and push for improvements that directly impact individuals with disabilities and their families. But his work doesn’t stop there. Rene is deeply rooted in the community — organizing autism awareness events, suicide prevention initiatives, toy drives, car shows, and more — all driven by a passion to give back and uplift others. In this conversation, we explore: The importance of representation in leadership Turning challenges into purpose Building stronger communities through service And why using your voice can change lives This is a story about impact, heart, and the power of showing up for others. Walk and Roll Live

This week on Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Addie and I are joined by past guests Bobby Rohan and Robert Soto as we wrap up our weekend at the Abilities Expo in Long Beach. We spent two full days exploring the new venue, meeting innovators, reconnecting with friends in the disability community, and discovering some exciting new developments in accessibility and adaptive living. Our goal on day one was simple — cover the entire floor, meet as many people as possible, and learn what’s new in the world of disability inclusion. Along the way we found some incredible stories, including a young creator developing a comic book series featuring superheroes inspired by real people with disabilities. We also explored the latest in adaptive equipment, from everyday mobility devices to rugged off-road wheelchairs designed for outdoor adventures. This year we noticed more adaptive clothing companies, interactive experiences like adaptive sports and a climbing wall, and even a fashion show highlighting inclusive design. The new ownership of the Expo appears to be making big improvements, bringing in influencers from the disability community, hosting live stage interviews, and creating a more engaging experience overall. Most importantly, the Expo reminded us how powerful it is when the disability community comes together — sharing ideas, telling stories, and building connections that help all of us live more active and independent lives. Join us as we share highlights, surprises, and some of our favorite moments from the Expo. Walk and Roll Live

On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug and Addie sit down with Lera Alexandrova, founder of Overcoming Change, to talk about resilience, motherhood, and finding purpose after life-altering challenges. Lera’s story began with a devastating childhood accident that led to multiple surgeries and years of recovery. For much of her life she pushed forward, building a career, raising two children, and living actively. But after another major surgery in 2019, Lera’s life changed dramatically when she transitioned to using a wheelchair full time. Rather than letting those challenges define her limits, Lera transformed her experience into a mission — helping others navigate disability, independence, and self-confidence through her platform, Overcoming Change. In this honest conversation, we talk about: Growing up after a serious childhood injury Navigating life as a single mother while facing major health challenges The emotional and physical transition to life in a wheelchair Finding community and purpose through advocacy Helping others in the disability community live fully and confidently Lera’s story is one of resilience, determination, and redefining what’s possible. Walk and Roll Live

Content creator Ky Westcott, known for “The Vibe With Ky,” joins Walk and Roll Live to talk about the life-changing moment when he was diagnosed with inattentive ADHD at age 34 — and how that diagnosis finally helped him understand the experiences he had struggled with for years. Ky opens up about growing up feeling different, the emotional mix of relief, grief, and validation that came with finally having answers, and how understanding his brain changed the way he treats himself and navigates the world. Through humor, honesty, and authenticity, Ky has built a community of over two million followers, creating content that helps people feel seen without falling into toxic positivity. His philosophy of “educate and entertain” has made conversations about ADHD and mental health accessible, relatable, and sometimes even funny. In this conversation, Ky shares: • What life felt like before his ADHD diagnosis • Why humor can be a powerful tool for mental health conversations • The difference between being a creator and an influencer • How ADHD shows up in relationships and everyday life • The responsibility of reaching millions of people online • What a “good brain day” looks like now Most importantly, Ky shares the message he hopes anyone struggling with their mental health will hear: you’re not broken — sometimes you just need the right lens to understand yourself. Walk and Roll Live

What does life look like when motherhood, caregiving, advocacy, and adventure all intersect? On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, host Doug Vincent and co-host Addie Rich welcome Sandy Gilbreath — blogger, travel influencer, caregiver, and mother to Cory, who lives with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Sandy shares her deeply personal journey of raising a child with a disability while navigating the emotional realities of caregiving, single parenthood, and resilience. From the moment she learned Cory’s diagnosis to building a life filled with purpose, travel, and advocacy, Sandy’s story is both raw and inspiring. You’ll also hear about her work with My Sandy Trail, her involvement with Travel Unity Alliance, the impact of the accessible travel blog Curb Free with Cory Lee, and why she created the Caregiving Mom’s Refresh Retreat to help other mothers recharge and find community. This conversation explores grief, hope, strength, and the power of finding joy and adventure—even in the most challenging circumstances. If you’re a caregiver, parent of a child with a disability, or someone looking for inspiration and perspective, this episode will resonate deeply. Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories… Life, Limitless.

This week on Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich welcome Jeana Nunez — life and business transformation coach, mom of four, woman of faith, and a warrior living with a rare neuromuscular disease. After years of misdiagnosis, ER visits, and hospital stays, Jeana’s strength and mobility can change without warning. But instead of allowing unpredictability to define her, she chose to transform it into purpose. In this powerful conversation, Jeana shares: What it’s like to live with a rare, unpredictable neuromuscular condition How misdiagnosis and medical trauma reshaped her mindset Balancing motherhood, ADHD, faith, and entrepreneurship Letting go of perfection and embracing “purpose over perfection” How she turned breakdowns into breakthroughs The heart behind her movement, Hot Mess to Holy Success Her empowering women’s event, Let Her Rise This episode is for anyone facing chronic illness, disability, burnout, or life’s unexpected detours. Jeana’s story reminds us that surrender isn’t weakness — it’s strength. And resilience isn’t about control — it’s about faith, flexibility, and forward motion. Life may be unpredictable… but your purpose doesn’t have to be. Life, Limitless. Walk and Roll Live

What happens after the hospital stay ends? In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live, Doug and Addie sit down with two dynamic leaders from Casa Colina in Pomona, California, to explore what true recovery really looks like after neurologic or traumatic injury. Dr. Rachel Tabak Tran, Director of the Transitional Living Center, shares how post-acute rehabilitation bridges the gap between medical recovery and independent living. From neurologic physical therapy to national leadership in PT education, Dr. Tran explains how Casa Colina prepares individuals not just to function—but to thrive. Lisa Hilborn, Director of Outdoor Adventures, Recreation Therapy, and Wheelchair Sports, brings the conversation into the world of adaptive sports and community reintegration. With more than 35 years of experience empowering people with disabilities through sport—from wheelchair basketball to Paralympic-level programming—Lisa shares how movement, recreation, and belonging transform lives. Together, they reveal how Casa Colina supports the full journey—from rehabilitation to recreation—and why recovery is about more than healing the body. If you or someone you love is navigating life after spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, or other neurologic conditions, this episode is filled with insight, hope, and practical wisdom. New episodes of Walk and Roll Live drop every Tuesday at 3 PM Pacific. Walk and Roll Live

On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent sits down with Ty Gipson, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and resilience advocate whose life has been shaped by extraordinary medical and personal challenges. Diagnosed with Type 1 juvenile diabetes at a young age, Ty’s journey includes multiple life-saving organ transplants, years of uncertainty, and moments where giving up might have seemed easier than pushing forward. Instead, Ty adopted what he calls a “No Options” mindset — a belief that when quitting isn’t an option, purpose takes over. In this powerful conversation, Ty shares how his health challenges shaped his outlook on life, leadership, and service, how entrepreneurship gave him a sense of control and creativity, and how gratitude, faith, and community helped him thrive beyond survival. Together, Doug and Ty explore disability, chronic illness, resilience, and the power of choosing hope when the path forward is unclear. This episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating disability, chronic illness, major life transitions, or searching for inspiration to keep moving forward — no matter the odds. Walk and Roll Live

Myles Pearson is a British Paralympian whose journey in wheelchair rugby is defined by talent, resilience, and fearless honesty. Born with Arthrogryposis and raised in Lytham St Annes, Myles first made his mark in wheelchair tennis—reaching the world top 25 as a junior—before discovering wheelchair rugby at just 15 years old. By 17, he became the youngest athlete ever to represent Great Britain in wheelchair rugby, earning a silver medal at the 2011 European Championships and competing on the world stage at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Known for his creativity and playmaking ability, Myles has gone on to help Team GB capture European gold and compete against the world’s top nations. Beyond competition, Myles is a powerful advocate for accessibility, inclusion, and authentic storytelling in disability sport. From blogging about life in wheelchair rugby to speaking candidly about relationships, identity, and independence, he brings a refreshing voice to the conversation. This episode of Walk and Roll Live explores elite sport, life beyond the medal podium, and what it truly means to belong—on and off the court. Walk and Roll Live

In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, we travel to rural Uganda to shine a light on the powerful work of Training Of Rural Women in Uganda (TORUWU). For more than two decades, TORUWU has been empowering women, children, and families through education, income-generating programs, healthcare, and disability support. We explore how TORUWU supports children with disabilities through physiotherapy and inclusive education, helps women gain economic independence, and strengthens entire communities through grassroots solutions. This conversation is filled with inspiring stories, real-world challenges, and a hopeful vision for what happens when opportunity, dignity, and inclusion come together. If you’re passionate about disability advocacy, global community development, and stories of resilience, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Walk and Roll Live

In this episode of Walk & Roll Live, we’re joined by Michelle Steiner, advocate, writer, photographer, and founder of Michelle’s Mission. Michelle lives with an invisible learning disability and grew up being told there were limits to what she could achieve. Today, she’s a college graduate, published writer, paraeducator, and a passionate voice for disability awareness. Through her writing, advocacy, and photography, Michelle works to encourage, empower, and educate people with and without disabilities. We talk about what it’s like to navigate a world that often overlooks invisible disabilities, the importance of self-advocacy in education, and how art and nature have played a powerful role in Michelle’s personal growth and healing. Michelle also shares insights from working with students with disabilities and offers encouragement to listeners who may be feeling unseen or discouraged. This is an honest, thoughtful conversation about resilience, identity, and making the invisible visible. Walk and Roll Live

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Walk and Roll Live, Doug and Addie welcome Avriel, a former railroad executive whose life took an unexpected turn following a back surgery that resulted in a T5 spinal cord injury. Avriel takes us back to his roots—growing up in Charleston, moving to Atlanta as a teen, and taking a bold leap to New York City at just 18 years old to work on the trading floor of the New York Mercantile Exchange. After finding his footing, he built an impressive 16-year career with Norfolk Southern, rising through the ranks to become a Terminal Superintendent and leading teams in one of the most demanding field-management environments in the railroad industry. In 2022, everything changed. Following surgery, Avriel experienced paralysis for several months and began a long, grueling road of recovery and rehabilitation. He shares candidly about the fear, uncertainty, and determination that carried him through months of intensive physical therapy as function slowly returned. Forced to step away from field leadership, Avriel redefined his professional identity, transitioning into a headquarters role focused on Network Design and Optimization—bringing new perspective, empathy, and problem-solving skills shaped by lived experience. Beyond career and recovery, Avriel opens up about rediscovering photography, a first love that became a source of healing, expression, and connection. Through the lens, he now captures organic moments and helps others see themselves—and their stories—more clearly. This episode is an honest conversation about resilience, identity, disability, creativity, and finding purpose after trauma. It’s a must-listen for anyone navigating life-altering change, spinal cord injury recovery, or the challenge of rebuilding after the unexpected. Walk and Roll Live

In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, host Doug Vincent welcomes Mike Kent, a stroke survivor whose life changed in an instant after a routine surgery in Paris went catastrophically wrong. What was meant to be a simple nose operation in 2019 resulted in a massive hemorrhagic stroke, an induced coma, and doctors giving Mike just 90 minutes to live. Eight weeks later, he woke up unable to move the right side of his body, unable to recognize his own life, and uncertain whether he wanted to go on. Spending six months in a wheelchair, Mike began the slow, painful, and deeply human process of rebuilding—learning to walk again, write again, think again, and ultimately believe again. Today, Mike helps disabled professionals break free from anxiety and reclaim their sense of purpose after medical trauma. In this raw and honest conversation, he shares the emotional realities of stroke recovery, identity loss, mental health, and what it truly means to rebuild a life from the inside out. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating disability, recovery, medical trauma, or searching for hope without sugarcoating the journey. Walk and Roll Live

Diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis at just 10 months old, RaeAnne Lindsay has spent her life navigating disability — and transforming that lived experience into powerful advocacy. In this episode of Walk and Roll Live, host Doug Vincent sits down with Ms. Wheelchair USA 2024 to explore her remarkable journey: from nearly 18 years of childhood rehab, surgeries, and summer camps at Shriners Hospital in Chicago, to earning her Master’s in Social Work, and now serving as a Research Coordinator at Vanderbilt University, focusing on Section 504 plans and accessible housing. RaeAnne opens up about the promise she made to herself as a child — that no disabled kid should ever have to endure the trauma she experienced — and how that promise fuels her advocacy today. We dive into her national platform, “Inclusive Playgrounds Are for Everyone,” what true inclusion looks like, and the emotional moments that affirmed her mission was making a real difference. This conversation also explores disability representation, leadership, pageantry, healing through advocacy, and why visibility matters — especially for disabled children who are still learning what’s possible. Whether you’re a parent, educator, policymaker, advocate, or someone early in your own disability journey, this episode is filled with insight, heart, and hope. Walk and Roll Live

As we close out 2025, Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories takes a moment to reflect on the conversations that moved us, challenged us, and inspired us throughout the year. In this special year-end wrap-up episode, host Doug Vincent revisits powerful stories from guests who shared their lived experiences with disability — stories of survival, resilience, self-advocacy, and transformation. From navigating life after injury or diagnosis, to breaking down barriers, educating others, and redefining independence, these conversations remind us that disability is not the end of the journey — it’s often the beginning of a new one. This episode highlights memorable guests including Rebeca Valenzuela, Walt Escamilla, Ryan Chavarria, Robert Soto, Donald Allison, Anna Keibler, Kat, Bob Millsap, Willie Stewart, Carl Vereen, and voices from the adaptive sports and Paralympic community. We also look ahead to 2026, where Walk and Roll Live will continue amplifying diverse disability voices, exploring real-life transitions, sharing advocacy tools, and fostering understanding across the full disability spectrum — including visible and invisible disabilities. Whether you’re living with a disability, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking authentic human stories, this episode celebrates where we’ve been — and where we’re rolling next. Walk and Roll Live

On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, hosts Doug Vincent and Addie Rich welcome author and mental health advocate Anna Keibler for a powerful and honest conversation about living with mental illness as a disability. Anna shares her journey with bipolar disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, including a moment of crisis that led her to seek emergency psychiatric care and ultimately change the course of her life. She speaks openly about the realities of parenting while managing serious mental illness, the stigma surrounding mental health disabilities, and the courage it takes to ask for help. Her time in treatment became the catalyst for her writing career, leading to multiple published books and international recognition. What began as survival has become purpose—writing a legacy for her children and using her voice to help others feel less alone. Walk and Roll Live This episode is a meaningful conversation about mental health, disability, resilience, and the power of choosing life.

In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with U.S. Army veteran Daniel Palacios, whose life changed forever after a tragic motorcycle accident left him paralyzed at the T5–T6 level. Daniel takes us through his journey—from serving his country at Fort Bliss, to navigating loss and a life-altering injury, to rebuilding his world through the support of family, the Long Beach VA community, and fellow veterans. Today, Daniel channels his strength and experience into service. Through organizations like PVA and the Triumph Foundation, he dedicates himself to supporting newly injured veterans, ensuring no one faces their recovery alone. Join us as Daniel shares his honesty, resilience, camaraderie, and his mission to uplift others walking a similar path. Walk and Roll Live

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, hosts Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with Donald Allison, who shares his lifelong journey from growing up in Fontana, California, to living today in Yucca Valley near Joshua Tree National Monument. Donald opens up about the early signs of a rare and progressive muscle disease called Inclusion Body Myositis (IBM)—a condition that first affected his hands, then his mobility, and ultimately placed him in a wheelchair. Diagnosed at the Mayo Clinic, Donald explains what it’s like to live with constant muscle weakness, chronic pain, immune system complications, and the everyday challenges of personal care and independence. He also pays tribute to the pivotal role his mother played in his life, including the legacy she left behind to ensure he could continue living safely in his home after her passing in 2021. This episode is a raw, honest, and educational look at life with a rare neuromuscular condition, filled with resilience, vulnerability, and the power of family and adaptability. Walk and Roll Live

In this powerful episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug Vincent and Addie Rich sit down with Chris Pecson from Reno, Nevada, whose life changed in 2015 after a devastating street bike accident left him with a complete T-6 spinal cord injury. Chris opens up about the day of the crash, the realities of early rehabilitation, and the powerful mindset shifts that helped him move forward. Now working as a part-time delivery driver and preparing to start college in 2026 as a computer science major, Chris shares how he rebuilt his independence, discovered new passions, and found purpose beyond the injury. His story is one of resilience, growth, and the courage to chart a new future. Whether you're part of the disability community, a supporter, or someone needing a reminder that life can be rebuilt after unexpected change, Chris’s journey will leave you inspired and hopeful. Walk and Roll Live

On this episode of Walk and Roll Live – Disability Stories, Doug and Addie sit down with legendary adaptive sports coach Carl Vereen, founder of the Rolling Cubs Junior Wheelchair Basketball Team. Carl shares his incredible journey from coaching championship teams in Michigan to creating new opportunities for youth athletes with disabilities here in the Inland Empire. Since founding the Rolling Cubs in 2018, Carl has built a powerhouse program that competes in the West Coast Conference under the National Wheelchair Basketball Association. His leadership has already helped two athletes continue their athletic careers at the University of Arizona. With multiple national championship coaching roles, decades of experience, and honors such as the Community Leadership Award and the David Ruback Legacy Award, Carl brings unmatched passion and insight to the world of adaptive sports. Join us as Carl talks about empowering young athletes, building confidence, creating champions, and growing the next generation of wheelchair basketball stars. This is a story of resilience, mentorship, community, and the life-changing impact of adaptive sports. Walk and Roll Live