"Being part of something is an essential human need. When you feel excluded, it becomes a real barrier in life. Don’t be too afraid to say the wrong thing. Be more focused on asking the right questions." —Hannah PonsfordWhen you’re seen as different, every day can feel like an uphill climb—and those closest to you often hurt quietly alongside, trying to bridge two worlds but unsure how. The longing for real acceptance and togetherness runs deep on both sides, and too often, everyone ends up feeling alone.Hannah Ponsford knows this from both sides, having grown up as the sister of someone with a disability and later becoming an advocate and storyteller. She is passionate about spreading the message that small acts of openness and support can nurture true belonging—for everyone involved. Expect real talk about family ups and downs, navigating awkward moments, tips for more welcoming communities, powerful advocacy, school hurdles, and how small actions ripple outward—listen for stories and insights that prove everyone deserves to belong. Connect with Heather: WebsiteFacebook InstagramLinkedInEpisode Highlights:02:24 Living with a Disability in the Family07:08 Breaking the Ice: Social Awkwardness Around Disabilities13:26 Unmasking “Wholesome”— Misconceptions and Social Labels18:16  The Cost of Exclusion: Why Inclusive Schools Matter22:53 Advice to Siblings: Balancing Care, Guilt, and Personal Dreams24:15 Parent Power: What Moms Need to Hear28:08 Our Kind of Normal Resources:💲DiscountCLEARSTEMGet a 15% discount when you shop at: clearstem.com Use Heather’s Code: SFVXPHXB🔗Link: https://clearstem.com/SFVXPHXBConnect with Hannah:Hannah Ponsford is a passionate storyteller, advocate, and creative professional based in California. Drawing on her experiences as the eldest sibling to a sister with an intellectual disability, Hannah is dedicated to fostering honest conversations and greater inclusion within the disability community. An actor and artist, she combines her creativity with advocacy through her podcast, "Our Kind of Normal," where she aims to share diverse stories and perspectives from those impacted by disabilities. Hannah is committed to building supportive networks, raising awareness, and empowering others to embrace authentic, inclusive connections.LinkedInInstagram  FacebookSupport the show

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