Introducing The Defeating Disabilities Podcast

Following the New York Daily News’ mass layoffs, I was listening to Frank Isola on Richard Deitsch’s Sports Media Podcast. The longtime Knicks/NBA writer reflected on what it meant to be a sports writer and have the ability to connect with so many people/readers over the years. You never know who you’re going to connect with, or the kind of difference you make in one’s life.

My own personal journey as a sports writer (or becoming one, in fact) has not been one without the burden of physical challenges that stand in the way. I have a disability called left hemiparesis (you can read more about that here), which not only sometimes impacts my ability to do my job, but obviously contributes to the challenges I look to overcome in daily life.

It’s not easy, but sometimes I take for granted that I’m not alone in doing so. There are many, many people who deal with disabilities or deficits that are similar (or at the very least, just as challenging) to mine. After some very particular experiences at NBA Summer League, I feel as though it’s time for me to begin sharing my story a little more.

In launching the Defeating Disabilities Podcast, I’m excited to share, but am even more looking forward to the opportunity to connect with others and become inspired myself as they too share their stories about how they cope with their own challenges.

As I mentioned, I’m well aware that I’m not the only one who deals with their own type of burden. Our own Dakota Schmidt tackles depression/anxiety on a daily basis, and I’m so thrilled that he’s chosen to join me in sharing his story as well. What we deal with are two different things, but we both understand the benefits this kind of outreach and platform can have, not only for us, but the masses who need to be heard.

The challenges we face play a huge role in who we are as people and what we do as professionals. At the core of our podcast will be our love for sports (basketball, in particular), and this is a great opportunity to shed light on those in the sports world who overcome challenges of their own.

Have a listen to the first episode as we begin to share our stories, and we hope you continue to tune in, and perhaps, feel compelled to reach out and/or share your own story.