Claim OwnershipPodcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family
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© 2026 Podcast Launch: Embracing Inclusion and Overcoming Challenges with Charlotte and Her Family
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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 lessons they've learned along the way. Experience the warmth of a family that works hard and plays hard, and discover how they support each other through every obstacle. From early days filled with uncertainty to moments of joy and growth, their story is a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive. Through heartfelt conversations, Charlotte and her family aim to raise awareness, foster understanding, and show that everyone belongs. Embrace the journey of learning, loving, and living life to the fullest, regardless of the pace.
Looking forward to interviewing and learning more about others on this podcast. #SoLetsBeFriends
20 Episodes
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In this continuation episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte shares Part 2 of a powerful conversation originally featured on Health with Sveta. Dr. Sveta Silverman reconnects with Charlotte’s mom, Anna Merrill and her Dad, Loren Merrill, to go deeper into what daily life really looks like while raising children with both physical and mental challenges. Building on their earlier discussion about neuroplasticity, this episode focuses on real-life routines, adaptations, setbacks, and small v...
In this episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte shares a special conversation originally recorded on the podcast Health with Sveta, hosted by Dr. Sveta Silverman. Dr. Sveta sits down with Anna Merrill, a mom raising three children with both physical and cognitive challenges, to talk about family life, resilience, and the role neuroplasticity can play in growth, learning, and hope. This episode offers a real-life look at adapting as a family, believing in possibility, and supporting brain he...
In this episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte sits down with Michael and his grandmother, Maryann — members of our Sweet Salvation Bakery sourdough team. This is Michael’s first job, supported through inclusive employment at the bakery and through our Unified Special Olympics community. Together, Michael and Mary Ann are not only learning the art of sourdough — they’re building confidence, skills, and even creating their own sourdough brand, supported by Sweet Salvation Bakery. This con...
In this special Christmas episode of So Let’s Be Friends, we share a beautiful example of inclusion in action. People of different abilities, from different places around the world, come together to read “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” in a collaborative project created by ABLE Radio. Each voice is unique, and each voice belongs. Charlotte and her mom were honored to take part in this meaningful project, which reminds us that inclusion isn’t just something we talk about — it’s somethin...
In this warm Thanksgiving episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte gathers with her cousins to talk about what it’s like growing up together — cousins with special needs and cousins who are typical — and how family naturally teaches love, patience, and inclusion. Together they share memories, laughter, lessons they’ve learned from each other, and the gratitude that comes from belonging to a family that loves every ability. If your family is coming together this week or has come together, t...
In this inspiring episode of So Let’s Be Friends, Charlotte welcomes Bruce Solsten, director of KDSTR Radio Corp and creator of ABLE Radio Lab — a media platform that empowers people with disabilities and underserved communities to share their stories. Bruce shares the history of Perry Damone’s original mission, the creation of the ABLE Radio Portal, and the heart behind his Nomad Santa storytelling project. Together, he and Charlotte explore what it means to build a world where every story...
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
📢 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...
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...
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: ...
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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