Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

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Anna and Charlotte Merrill

14 episodes

2 weeks ago

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte reflects on the life and legacy of Judith Heumann — the fearless disability rights advocate and author of Being Heumann. Charlotte shares stories from Judith’s journey that remind us what it truly means to “act human” — to see people first, to stand up for what’s right, and to lead with love in every interaction. Through laughter, honesty, and heart, Charlotte helps listeners connect Judith’s story to their own lives — reminding us t...

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Episodes (14/14)

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Acting Human: Lessons from "Being Heumann" -Disability Rights Movement

2 weeks ago

24 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

“The Moms’ Panel: Strength, Faith, and Inclusion Through a Mother’s Eyes”

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with three incredible moms — Nancy Ruffell, Lynette Nicoll, and Leah Clarke — to talk about the real, everyday journey of raising children and adults with special needs. These women share their stories of love, faith, exhaustion, laughter, and hope. Together, they explore what it means to advocate, to include, and to never give up — even when life looks different than expected. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or friend ...

4 weeks ago

37 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

“Friends, Faith, and Abilities: Charlotte & Enya’s Story”

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with her best friend Enya to share their personal stories, friendship, and wisdom as young adults with unique abilities. Building on their recent talks about turning trials into blessings, Charlotte and Enya open up about what it means to celebrate all abilities, support one another, and dream big for the future. Together, they show us that inclusion isn’t just an idea—it’s lived out through friendship, resilience, and lov...

1 month ago

44 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

"Turning Trials into Blessings: Messages of Hope, Faith, and Strength"

In this heartfelt and personal episode of "So Let’s Be Friends," Charlotte shares her powerful talk about trials, tribulations, and how they can become blessings in disguise. Freshly called to serve an 18-month service mission, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs that shaped her journey and strengthened her heart. Charlotte is joined by her friend Enya and community friend Eric Scott — both sharing inspiring messages about hope, resilience, and how to see blessings even in hard time...

1 month ago

18 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

“Building Independence and Confidence: Transition School to Work with Cher Lewis”

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Mrs. Cher Lewis, who leads the Transition School to Work (TSW) program at the high school. The TSW program helps students with disabilities prepare for life after graduation by teaching real-world skills, creating job opportunities, and building the confidence to live independently. Charlotte and Mrs. Lewis talk about how families, teachers, and communities can partner together to create smoother transitions from s...

2 months ago

26 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

“Life After School: Inclusion, Jobs, and Dreams with a Family of Strength” Adulthood

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte welcomes Nancy—a mother and teacher—along with her two amazing adult daughters, Elizabeth and Emma. Together, they share what life looks like beyond school: navigating jobs, independence, friendships, and belonging in the adult world with special needs. You’ll hear wisdom from a mom who has walked both the parenting and teaching paths, and powerful voices from her daughters who are stepping forward, contributing, and shining in thei...

2 months ago

48 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Part Two: “Building Strength, Finding Voice – Therapy that Empowers”

In Part Two of this two-part series, Charlotte continues her heartfelt conversation with her speech therapist and physical therapist friend. Together, they share stories, practical advice, and real wisdom about how therapy is more than a session—it’s a bridge to independence, confidence, and inclusion. …. we dive deeper into how therapy helps individuals with disabilities find their voice, grow their strength, and build confidence. This isn’t just about exercises or goals—it’s about real peo...

3 months ago

42 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

PART ONE “Advocacy Begins with Support: Partnering with Speech and Physical Therapists, Schools & Doctors”

📢 A brand-new episode of So Let’s Be Friends is live — and it’s so good, we had to split it into two parts! This week, Charlotte chats with her amazing speech therapist and her friend, a physical therapist, about what it really takes to support individuals with disabilities—at school, with doctors, and in the community. 💬 Learn how to find your voice and be heard 🤝 Discover how therapists can be powerful allies 🏫 Hear how to work with schools and doctors—not against them 📣 Gain real steps t...

3 months ago

50 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Showing Up: A Family’s Love, Inclusion & Strength

In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte interviews a remarkable family, the Sandoval Family, who lives out love and inclusion every day. Their daughter, who lives with seizures, is a proud Little Caesars employee and a vibrant part of her community. Her parents and brothers are passionate about giving back and lifting others—especially through Special Olympics Unified. Get ready to meet a family that shows us what it means to contribute, include, and love without li...

4 months ago

40 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

“Finding My Voice: Charlotte’s Story & the Power of Inclusion”

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, Charlotte steps into the spotlight—not as host, but as guest. Interviewed by her mom, Charlotte shares her story of growing up with disability, the friendships that shaped her, and how she became a voice for inclusion. She opens up about her faith, her family, and the powerful influence of disability rights legend Judith Heumann—who once trained with Charlotte on Zoom and helped her believe she could lead, speak, and spark change. You’ll hear: ...

4 months ago

43 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Carrying the Spirit of Inclusion: Kika Award Recipients Speak Out

In this heartwarming episode, Charlotte interviews two incredible high school graduates—recipients of the Kika Inclusion Award, named after her sister, a true symbol of love and inclusion. 💫 Join us as we celebrate these two students, one young woman and one young man, who are leading with kindness, compassion, and a heart for others. They share what inclusion means to them, stories from their school experiences, and how they plan to carry inclusion into the future. These young leaders shar...

5 months ago

26 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Voices of Inclusion: Stories from the 77 Subaru Event

In this special episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte takes us inside the incredible 77 Subaru event—a vibrant day dedicated to raising awareness, celebrating ability, and championing inclusion for all. Charlotte interviews a dozen amazing guests, including athletes with disabilities, their Unified Partners, parents, coaches, and volunteers. Each conversation highlights the power of inclusion, teamwork, and what it means to belong—both on and off the field. From stories of resilience ...

5 months ago

25 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Interview with Desiree Scholin: A Life of Grace, Grit, and Inclusion

In this heartfelt episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with 63-year-old Desiree Scholin, a wise and joyful woman who shares her powerful journey of living with special needs over the last six decades. From early challenges to faith-filled breakthroughs, Desiree’s story is one of courage, community, and deep hope. Together, they discuss how inclusion has changed through the years, the power of friendship, and what it means to be seen, heard, and loved. This episode is a beauti...

5 months ago

23 minutes

Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family

Discover the power of inclusion, love, and the beauty of differences in the first episode of So Let's Be Friends. Join Charlotte, who lives with cerebral palsy and a rare disease, as she shares her journey and invites her family to introduce themselves and discuss their unique bond. This podcast is a celebration of resilience and the strength found in unity. Charlotte's family opens up about the challenges and triumphs they have faced together, offering insights into their lives and the lesso...

6 months ago

42 minutes