Welcome to the first episode of my podcast! “Finding Avalon: Amplifying Disabled Voices” is a disabled-led, indie storytelling project. I created it to amplify Disabled voices and promote authentic, diverse representation and examining themes of life, leadership and advocacy.
A labour of love in the making over three years, and frequently put on hold as I managed my own changing reality with disability, it finally launched in Winter 2025! This is a curated collection of insightful, relatable and surprising stories unapologetically centers women’s, gender diverse, 2SLGBTQ+ and BIPOC perspectives.
“There is really no one face of disability.
Jennifer (Jenna) Barnable, Disability Inclusion Advocate
If you know one disabled person, you simply know one disabled person.”
About this Episode
Episode Title: Welcome to Avalon. Meet your Host Jenna Barnable
Episode Theme: The Power of Representation in Disability
Episode Summary: In the inaugural episode of Finding Avalon, host Jennifer (Jenna) Barnable introduces the podcast’s mission to elevate disabled voices and promote authentic representation.
She shares her personal journey with disability, the importance of mentorship and the systemic barriers faced in healthcare.
The episode emphasizes resilience and the need for inclusive communities, while previewing upcoming discussions with disabled guests and allies.
Accessibility: All episodes have been uploaded with transcripts, but if you have difficulty with accessibility, Jennifer can send you a copy of the transcript by email if you contact her.
Takeaways from this Episode
- Finding Avalon is a podcast that centers disabled voices for authentic representation.
- Disability can affect anyone at any time, regardless of background.
- There is no single narrative for disability; each experience is unique.
- Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection and understanding.
- Mainstream media often misrepresents disability, leading to stigma.
- Mentorship from disabled professionals is crucial for guidance and development.
- Systemic healthcare barriers disproportionately affect marginalized groups, especially women.
- Resilience is essential in the face of adversity and discrimination.
- Advocacy and education are vital for meaningful change
Quotes from this episode:
“There is really no one face of disability. If you know one disabled person, you simply know one disabled person.” -Jennifer Barnable, host of the Finding Avalon podcast
“I was told it was all in my head.”
“Resilience is my only option.”
Listen to Episode 1 here
Episode 1: Meet Your Host with Jenna Barnable wherever you get your podcasts.
Thank you for supporting a disabled creator with a follow, share, comment and like! After you’ve listened, I invite you to join me for the rest of Season One as I center and celebrate the work and wisdom of disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent people – and our allies working alongside us for meaningful community inclusion.
LEARN MORE / RESOURCES
Jennifer Barnable: Storyteller, Disability Advocate 
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