• From Dominating Ironman Races to Building a Movement—Kyle Pease’s Blueprint for Making a Difference
    May 6 2026

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    Most people view success as a straight line — but Kyle Pease's story proves it’s a vibrant, unpredictable journey filled with resilience, love, and breakthroughs. When you're told you're never supposed to achieve what you dream of, Kyle flips the script, showing that passion and grit rewrite expectations every single day. If you're ready to embrace your true potential despite the odds, this episode is your wake-up call.Kyle Pease, a lifelong wheelchair user and Ironman champion, shares how his relentless pursuit of inclusion has transformed not only his life but inspired thousands. From training with Skittles and potato chips to conquering Hawaii’s toughest race, his journey reveals the power of perseverance and community. Kyle dives into how he’s built a foundation that’s helped over 4,000 families—and why asking for help, investing in mental health, and embracing independence are pivotal lessons for us all.You'll discover: Kyle's groundbreaking approach to navigating daily life with cerebral palsy, including independent travel on Atlanta’s Marta system and turning societal misconceptions into opportunities for growth. He reveals the significance of caregivers as family, the emotional highs of crossing an Ironman finish line, and why every obstacle is an invitation to prove what’s possible. Plus, insights on fostering inclusion, the importance of role models, and how a mindset focused on love and hope sparks extraordinary achievements.Living with a disability doesn’t mean living on the sidelines — it means breaking barriers, rewriting success stories, and inspiring the next generation to dream bigger. Whether you're a caregiver, athlete, parent, or someone seeking to unlock your own potential, this episode offers radical optimism and actionable wisdom to challenge what you thought was possible.Perfectly suited for those ready to transform limitations into launchpads for greatness, Kyle’s story will stay with you long after the final seconds of the race. Hit play and get inspired to see your own life as a race worth running.

    Guest Credibility:
    Kyle Pease is an Ironman finisher, two-time World Champion, and founder of the Kyle Pease Foundation, dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through sports and community.
    To learn more about The Kyle Pease Foundation click here.

    To learn more about Where The Ramp Ends click here.

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    50 mins
  • Shannon Pinkerton with The Pinkerton Boys Discusses Adoption, Foster Care and Disability
    Apr 27 2026

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    Thank you for your support! Most people view Down syndrome and children with disabilities through a narrow, often negative lens — but Shannon Pinkerton flips that perspective on its head. Shannon and her husband adopted six boys, five with Down syndrome, Shannon shares her inspiring, unfiltered journey of adopting, fostering, and loving children who often fall through the cracks of the system — and proving that these kids are capable of more than society expects.In this heartfelt episode, Shannon challenges the stereotypes that shroud disabilities. You’ll discover how her family’s unwavering approach fosters independence, respect, and dignity for her boys, even in moments that seem like setbacks. From navigating foster care and adoption to breaking down misconceptions and confronting societal ableism, her story is a testament to the power of love and advocacy. She shares practical advice on how to treat children with Down syndrome as “normal,” emphasizing that expectations and community support make all the difference.We break down:

    • How to shift your mindset from pity to empowerment
    • The importance of exposing children with disabilities to mainstream settings
    • Why nurturing biological family connections enriches a child's identity
    • The impact of community and social media in fighting stigma
    • Real stories of resilience, including Cameron’s quest to find his biological family and Tracy’s unexpected adoption journey

    Every parent, educator, or caregiver who wants to see beyond labels and unlock the full potential of children with disabilities will find inspiration and actionable strategies here. Shannon’s experience illustrates that when society treats kids with Down syndrome as capable individuals, everyone wins.This episode isn’t just a story — it’s a rallying cry for inclusion, dignity, and love. Perfect for anyone involved in special needs advocacy, fostering, or simply looking to broaden their understanding. Tune in and discover why these kids aren’t just surviving — they’re thriving, with the right support, expectations, and community.Join Shannon and her family in redefining what’s possible — because everyone deserves to be seen, loved, and celebrated.

    You can follow The Pinkerton Boys on TikTok and on Facebook.


    You can follow all of Where Ramp Ends socials and stay informed on our projects here.

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Ricki Sabia -Senior Education Policy Advisor, National Down Syndrome Congress
    Apr 20 2026
    Please rate and review! Hit the follow button and share! Help us grow our audience! Most parents of children with Down syndrome—and even advocates—would agree: understanding and navigating education policy can feel overwhelming and inaccessible. But what if your voice could shape real change, starting today? Ricki Sabia, Senior Education Policy Advisor at the National Down Syndrome Congress, shares the powerful story of how she shifted from a concerned parent to a fierce advocate influencing federal and state policies that impact millions of children like hers—and yours. Her journey proves that even small actions can spark systemic transformation.In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Ricki recounts her initial moments of advocacy sparked at the beach, observing her son’s uncertain future, and how she turned that worry into a call for systemic change. You'll discover concrete strategies for effective advocacy—whether you're confronting IEP meetings for the first time or advocating for inclusive education policies at the national level. Ricki breaks down complex topics like IDEA, federal funding, and the importance of community-based services, making these essential issues accessible and actionable for families everywhere.We break down the evolution of educational inclusion, highlighting how attitudes, policies, and community support have shifted—and why there’s still work to do. You'll learn: how to advocate assertively but collaboratively in school meetings, ways to build lasting relationships with educators, and why your personal story holds transformative power. Ricki shares practical tips for parents feeling intimidated at IEP meetings, and reveals the importance of setting future-focused goals—like independent living and employment—that can dramatically change your child's life trajectory. This episode isn’t just about policy—it's about empowering you to be a catalyst for change. Whether you’re new to advocacy or seasoned in activism, Ricki’s insights remind us that every voice matters. Her inspiring perspective prioritizes inclusion, respect, and the belief that every child can reach their full potential when we work together to dismantle barriers. Perfect for parents, educators, and advocates committed to creating a future of opportunity and respect for all children with disabilities.Join us as Ricki Sabia models how lived experience, persistence, and a passion for justice can turn personal challenges into powerful advocacy tools. Discover how your voice, big or small, can help shape a more inclusive, equitable future—one policy change at a time.All the resources Ricki mentioned in the podcast are here:NDSC website https://ndsccenter.org/NDSC Policy Pulse https://ndsccenter.org/policy/action-center/the-policy-pulse.htmlNational Down Syndrome, Advocacy Coalition (NDAC) information and free application https://ndsccenter.org/policy/national-down-syndrome-advocacy-coalition-ndac/Sign up for NDSC action alerts https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/NDSCCenter/HomeNDSC policy and advocacy resources. Find policy briefs for families on education here https://ndsccenter.org/policy/advocacy-training-resources/briefs.htmlNDSC DC Policy Summit September 29-30 2026. Registration opens May 14. https://ndsccenter.org/policy/ndsc-down-syndrome-policy-summit/TIES Center on Inclusive Policies and Practices for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities https://tiescenter.org/One pager with clickable links for TIES briefs https://ndsccenter.org/file_download/fd5f32f2-7e8d-405f-a0ce-a4c81cb4db10Find all the ways to connect with Where The Ramp Ends here:Where The Ramp Ends
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Empowering Disability Advocacy: A Conversation with Morgan Davis
    Apr 13 2026

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    In this episode of Where the Ramp Ends, Bryce Wooten sits down with Morgan Davis, a passionate disability advocate living with cerebral palsy. They explore Morgan's journey through advocacy, the importance of representation, accessibility, and how societal perceptions shape experiences for people with disabilities.

    Main Topics:

    Morgan Davis’s advocacy journey and leadership programs like YLF and Partners in Policymaking

    The social model of disability and the importance of representation in media and education

    Practical and simple accommodations for accessibility in daily life and work

    The concept of dignity of risk and independence for people with disabilities

    The intersection of disability with race, identity, and DEI efforts

    Challenges in transportation, healthcare, and the financial burdens faced by the disability community

    Timestamps:

    (00:00) - Introduction to Morgan Davis and her advocacy background

    (02:04) - How leadership programs like YLF and LEND shaped Morgan’s advocacy skills

    (08:05) - Key lessons Morgan wishes she could tell her younger self

    (09:32) - Advice for parents of children with disabilities starting their advocacy journey

    (10:11) - The analogy of moving leaves on the road as advocacy in action

    (13:32) - The high cost of transportation when attending college with a disability

    (15:30) - Financial burdens and employment barriers faced by people with disabilities

    (18:49) - Simple accommodations such as glasses and voice-to-text technology

    (22:45) - The importance of proper resources and awareness of assistive technology providers like AbleTech

    (35:21) - Challenging misconceptions: disability as part of DEI and social inclusion

    (43:01) - Morgan’s reflections on her journey from disinterest to empowerment through knowledge

    (47:01) - The importance of mentorship and representation in media and society

    (49:27) - The need for accurate media portrayals of disability and social model understanding

    (50:04) - Addressing the stigma around dating and relationships with disability

    (54:26) - Personal story of taking Julia to the bowling alley and advocating for her independence

    (58:23) - Dignity of risk: empowering people with disabilities to make their own choices

    (61:13) - Morgan’s legacy and her hopes for future advocacy impact

    (63:38) - Final thoughts from Morgan on her journey and encouragement for others

    Resources & Links:

    Morgan Davis Instagram

    Oklahoma AbleTech

    Disability Rights Movement history

    Partners in Policymaking

    Connect with Morgan Davis:

    LinkedIn

    Twitter

    Additional Notes:


    Morgan emphasizes that disability rights and understanding must be integrated into education at all levels, advocating for universal design and early representation. She also highlights the personal and societal benefits of viewing disability through the social model lens—a view that society's barriers, not individual impairments, create disability. Her inspiring journey encourages ongoing advocacy, representation, and compassion to foster inclusion and dignity for all.


    You can find all of Where The Ramp Ends links including contact information here:

    https://www.fixfinderusa.com/other-services/where-the-ramp-ends


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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Julie Forrest Wyman On Her Film "The Tallest Dwarf"
    Apr 6 2026

    Julie Forest Wyman’s documentary, The Tallest Dwarf, shatters misconceptions, offering a fresh perspective on body image, identity, and community. Set to premiere on PBS’s Independent Lens on April 6th, this powerful film invites you into a world often misunderstood and misrepresented, revealing the resilience, autonomy, and humor of little people with dwarfism. In this episode, Julie shares her transformative 11-year journey of making the film—why she initially hesitated to include her own story, and how her personal experience with body diversity fueled her passion to challenge societal narratives. You’ll discover how she navigated the ethical minefield of representation, avoiding stereotypes and Fetishism, and instead empowering individuals to tell their own stories authentically. She recounts moments of self-doubt, the importance of community and support, and the unexpected revelations about her own body and identity. We break down key themes: the legacy of ableism, the importance of diversity in representation, and the ethical considerations in advocating for marginalized communities. Julie discusses her creative process, the importance of film as a tool for visibility, and how humor becomes a vital weapon against stigma. You'll learn why her film is more than a documentary—it's a call to recognize the humanity behind societal labels and a blueprint for viewers to rethink body image and inclusivity. This episode underscores why understanding and supporting minority communities through exposure and authentic storytelling is critical. If you’re passionate about social justice, filmmaking, or fostering acceptance, this is essential listening. Julie’s insights inspire action, empathy, and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be seen. Whether you’re a parent, artist, or advocate, you’ll walk away with concrete takeaways on how to foster inclusion in your own circles—and why amplifying marginalized voices is more urgent than ever. Tune in to learn how one filmmaker’s heartfelt journey is building bridges, reshaping narratives, and inspiring a more compassionate worldview. Julie Forest Wyman is an acclaimed filmmaker and professor at UC Davis, whose work bravely confronts societal biases about bodies and identity, championing community and autonomy through her art. This episode is perfect for storytellers, students of social justice, body positivity advocates, or anyone eager to understand the power of representation and the importance of dismantling ableism. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to see the world—and yourself—in a new light.
    Follow Julie and her work on Instagram.

    And follow The Tallest Dwarf here.


    Please rate and review this podcast to help others find us.

    You can follow Where The Ramp Ends on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

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    55 mins
  • Advocate, Comedian, Teacher: Michael' Beer's Journey in Disability History
    Mar 25 2026

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    You can find more about Comedians With Disabilities here.

    You can follow Where The Ramp Ends on

    Facebook,

    Instagram and

    TikTok

    Most people don't realize that understanding the history behind disability rights can ignite your advocacy and reshape your entire perspective—until they hear Michael Beers’ powerful stories. In this episode of Where the Ramp Ends, Michael, a comedian, advocate, and history-maker, reveals the pivotal moments that transformed his outlook on disability, identity, and activism. Imagine discovering that the laws meant to protect us, like Section 504, were enacted only after years of protest—by fierce activists willing to take over federal buildings for 28 days. Michael shares how these monumental events and iconic figures like Judy Heumann inspired him to find his voice. He talks about his own journey from masking his disability to embracing it fully through comedy, advocacy, and community. You’ll learn how his battle with societal norms, the importance of shared stories, and the power of staying visible forge the path for real inclusion. You'll discover: the significance of disability history in cultivating confidence and resilience; practical advice for beginners in advocacy—like simply showing up and embracing failure; and eye-opening statistics about the loneliness and limited social connections faced by people with disabilities. Michael emphasizes that despite progress, our community still faces systemic barriers that require collective effort and authentic representation. Why does this episode matter? Because the more we understand our shared history, the better equipped we are to challenge outdated stigmas and build a future where everyone’s voice matters. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting out, Michael’s stories ignite a call to action—show up, speak out, and create spaces for others to thrive.Perfect for advocates, educators, allies, and anyone curious about disability rights and community building. Tune in to learn how one stage, one story, and one moment in history can ripple through generations, inspiring courage—and change.Guest credibility: Michael Beers is a comedian, advocate, and lifelong disability rights supporter known for his humor, activism, and storytelling that bridge communities and spark real change. Why this works: The opening hooks the listener with a compelling story that highlights activism’s power and invites curiosity. The body builds intrigue around historical moments and personal insights, emphasizing transformation and practical steps. It leaves the listener inspired and motivated to listen deeper, knowing this episode offers tangible hope and action.





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    58 mins
  • Inspiring Advocacy: Bobby Kern's Journey
    Mar 18 2026

    If you’re enjoying the podcast, please leave a rating and review to help others find it—and be sure to hit follow so you don’t miss new episodes! In this episode, Bryce Wooten and Summer Parrish engage with Bobby Kern, a professor and disability advocate, who shares his personal journey as a father of a son with Down syndrome. Bobby discusses the importance of transparency in sharing their experiences on social media, the unique challenges fathers face in disability advocacy, and the lessons learned from the Partners in Policymaking program. He emphasizes the need for inclusive environments in churches and educational institutions, the significance of social connections for individuals with disabilities, and his aspirations for his son's future. The conversation highlights the importance of dreaming big and advocating for a more inclusive society.

    takeaways


    Bobby shares his journey as a father of a son with Down syndrome.

    Transparency on social media has helped many families.

    Fathers often struggle with emotional expression in parenting.

    The importance of dreaming big for all family members.

    Society often limits the potential of individuals with disabilities.

    Disability education is crucial in universities.

    Churches should be inclusive spaces for everyone.

    Social connections are vital for individuals with disabilities.

    Bobby's advocacy work focuses on creating inclusive church environments.

    Legacy is about being a supportive parent and encouraging independence.


    Follow Where The Ramp Ends on Facebook,

    Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.



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    47 mins
  • Dr. Guy Caruso - Changing Roles, Changing Lives
    Mar 11 2026

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    In this enlightening conversation, Guy Caruso discusses the principles of Social Role Valorization (SRV) and its evolution from normalization. He emphasizes the importance of helping individuals with disabilities achieve valued roles in society, advocating for high expectations from families, and the need for inclusive practices in education and community settings. Caruso shares examples of successful SRV implementations, addresses common concerns about inclusion, and highlights the role of language in shaping perceptions of disability. He expresses hope for the future of SRV, driven by families and individuals advocating for change, and reflects on his legacy in the field of disability advocacy.

    Easy to read tip sheets on SRV https://issuu.com/keystoneinstituteindia/docs/srv_tip_sheets_2024

    Website for SRV with tabs About SRV, PASSING, Membership, Resources, Training and Eventshttps://socialrolevalorization.com/srv-theory-about-srv/srv-theory/

    https://family-advocacy.com/social-role-valorisation/#:~:text=What%20ideas%20can%20we%20draw,(football%20supporter%2C%20dancerYou can find Where The Ramp Ends LinkTree here:

    https://linktr.ee/where.the.ramp.ends

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    49 mins