Wheel Talk

www.patreon.com/EmpoweredPara www.patreon.com/FreddoTheWheelchairGuy In this video, we dive deep into the holiday season, asking the tough questions: Is Christmas as wonderful as it seems, or does it have its downsides for people and society? From the joy of togetherness and giving to the stress of consumerism and unrealistic expectations, we’ll explore both sides of this festive coin. But that’s...

Welcome back to Wheel Talk! Join us for a lively discussion about Fred preparing to move in with his girlfriend and the challenges of finding accessible housing after his landlord decided not to renew his lease. We'll share insights and tips on navigating this crucial transition. Plus, we’ll chat about Brittney's experience at a concert - both the good and the bad And finally, Brittney gives the i...

Welcome back to Wheel Talk! In this episode, we dive deep into the multifaceted nature of disability, exploring whether it serves as an asset or liability in our society. We discuss how disabilities can create unique opportunities, while also examining the challenges and barriers that individuals with disabilities face. Brittney also talks about the fear and anxiety that her children might get inj...

Fred and Brit discuss recent changes to Disneyland’s disability pass and what they mean for accessibility. Fred opens up about a moment he felt he acted entitled because of his disability, and Brittney shares her own dilemmas, like using accessible bathrooms when others are waiting. They also touch on how some influencers in the disability community could focus more on solutions than complaints.

Join us for an insightful and candid conversation with Jeff Hutchison, who shares his unique experience as a devotee. This conversation aims to foster understanding and break down stereotypes surrounding disability and attraction. Whether you're curious about the subject or looking for deeper insights into human connections, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.

Brit opens up to Fred about why a comment from her husband hit her hard, and it sparks a meaningful conversation about the fear of being a burden when living with a disability. We explore how to confront those insecurities, the balance between asking for help and maintaining independence, and how to navigate these challenges in a relationship.  Is it easier to start a new relationship from a wheel...

Fred and Brittney dive into the surprising dynamics of how men and women interact with people who have disabilities. After a night out at a bar, Brit noticed the men were unusually kind and helpful, while the women seemed a bit distant. Their conversation explores the reasons behind these reactions and the broader social dynamics at play. They also discuss why some people handle spinal cord injuri...

In this episode, Fred catches up with Brian Kinney, the creator behind the popular YouTube channel “Paralyzed Living,” who hasn’t posted a video in over two years. With the help of ChatGPT, they brainstorm ways for Brian to break his creative drought and reconnect with his audience. Tune in to hear Brian’s candid thoughts on why he hates his job, the challenges of navigating the American healthcar...

This week on Wheel Talk, Fred shares his return to rehab and the mixed feelings that came with it. Brittney recounts her recent outing to a bar with friends, all of whom were in wheelchairs, and the awkward reactions they encountered from people. Together, we discuss the complexities of public perception and accessibility in social spaces. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the ups and d...

In this episode, Fred talks with Mike Dewsnap, a former champion in the Four Cross mountain biking scene. Mike shares his story of how a routine jump went tragically wrong, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Despite the devastating injury, Mike’s resilience shines through as he discusses his rehab journey, from tough moments like falling out of his wheelchair to getting back up and learnin...

Today we explore the complex and often misunderstood relationship between disability and attractiveness. Are people with disabilities inherently less attractive than their able-bodied counterparts? The conversation also delves into ‘devotees’—people attracted to those with disabilities—offering a unique perspective on desirability. Fred also reflects on his recent return to rehab after many years...

We're diving into three incredibly intense and relatable topics that many of us face in life. Get ready for some Wheel Talk! Assisted Suicide after Life-Changing Disabilities: This is a sensitive yet vital discussion we need to have. We'll provide our thoughts on whether assisted suicide should be an option for those diagnosed with life-changing disabilities. It’s a complex issue that touc...

In this episode of Wheel Talk we dive into some tough conversations about parenting with a disability and Brit shares some tricky parts of her journey as a mom. We also discuss the merits of Spinal Cord Injury Awareness month and share ways that we raise awareness in our own communities. Check out our YouTube Channels for more conversations and videos documenting life in a wheelchair Brittney: htt...

In this episode of Wheel Talk, we explore cannabis and conflict resolution, Brittney’s take on Freds latest video, and a question the term ableism.  We dive into a mix of topics—from celebrating Halloween in September and budgeting energy as wheelchair users, to Freds near-death experience falling down stairs and a candid conversation about the best sex after SCI Expect plenty of laughs, real talk...

In this episode of Wheel Talk , we explore the power of the mind and ask: can you really think your way out of a spinal cord injury? From there, we compare the effects of faith healing with more traditional medical approaches, and debate whether ChatGPT is a creative tool or simply a creativity thief. Plus, Brit seeks advice on navigating parenthood, sparking a thoughtful conversation on raising k...

Today’s guest is Will Ruane, whose social media highlights paint a vibrant picture of an active and successful life post-spinal injury. I’ve been wanting to sit down with Will for a while now, and this conversation did not disappoint. Will shares his journey from the day of his injury, to how he tackled the physical and mental challenges that followed. He tells the inspiring story of how he lost a...

In this episode, Brittney shares her latest travel adventures, while Fred dives into the secret of how he lost 4kg in six weeks. We discuss the tricky issue of which invisible disabilities qualify for using a wheelchair-accessible toilet and the awkwardness of public bathroom situations. Plus, we explore the positive impact of small acts of kindness. It’s a mix of travel, fitness, inclusivity, and...

In this episode, Brittney shares her experiences from a recent camping trip, where she faced the challenge of watching loved ones engage in activities that weren’t fully accessible. We explore how to navigate these situations with a positive mindset, choosing to be a supporter rather than dwelling on what’s out of reach. Our conversation then turns to a more somber note as we reflect on the recent...

In this episode of Wheel Talk , Brittney and I explore the profound value of good friends and the power of honest conversations, sharing how a single two-hour phone call with a close friend delivered results akin to weeks of therapy. We then dive into the tricky question of whether to disclose your disability when applying for a job or using dating apps—should you be upfront, or hold back to avoid...

In this episode of Wheel Talk, Brittney and I tackle a range of intriguing topics. We open up about the experience of loneliness, meaning, and the unique challenges and huge rewards of finding love after a spinal cord injury. I also discuss a recent spiritual journey involving a magic mushroom ceremony, which brought up the thought-provoking question: If the power went off tomorrow and never came...

In this episode of Wheel Talk, I chat with Brian Kinney from the Paralyzed Living YouTube channel for an honest conversation about the emotional challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. We delve into the profound realisation that grieving the loss of abilities happens twice—first when the injury occurs, and again when you have kids and can’t join in on certain activities, like helping your...

In this episode of Wheel Talk, we kick things off by discussing Brittney's latest YouTube video, where she courageously explores the negative emotions that surface when the world isn’t accessible, leaving us on the sidelines. We then dive into a thought-provoking discussion: If a miracle cure for spinal injuries were discovered, would it truly be the perfect solution we dream of? Or, after the...

In this episode of Wheel Talk, Brittney shares a deeply personal experience at the Rodeo, where an encounter with inconsiderate individuals left her in tears after they refused to let her sit in a wheelchair-accessible area. We delve into the emotional toll of such experiences and discuss the frustrations that arise when able-bodied individuals occupy accessible toilets and changing rooms. But it’...