Thriving With an Invisible Disability – Michelle Steiner's Journey of Resilience, Creativity, and Advocacy

Guest: Michelle Steiner, a writer, photographer, paraeducator, and disability advocate who lives with an invisible disability.

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, hosts Paul Cruz and Gino Akbari sit down with Michelle Steiner.

Michelle shares her deeply personal journey of being told what she couldn't do—only to go on and earn her college degree, publish widely, advocate for students with disabilities, and build a meaningful creative career. Through heartfelt storytelling, Michelle sheds light on the realities of invisible disabilities, self-advocacy, resilience, relationships, and the power of creativity as healing and expression.

This episode is a must-listen for neurodivergent individuals, educators, parents, caregivers, and advocates seeking hope, understanding, and actionable insight.

Powerful Takeaways

• Invisible disabilities are real—even when they can't be seen.
• Success doesn't mean a disability disappears.
• Strength-based education changes lives.
• Advocacy starts with knowing your needs and speaking up.
• Creativity can be both a voice and a form of healing.
• The right relationships honour access needs—not judge them.

Memorable Quotes

"Just because people can't see my disability doesn't mean it's not there."

"I did it afraid. And when I started focusing on what I could do, I began to see success."

"Having a disability isn't a weakness—it can become a strength."

Connect with Michelle:

Website: https://www.michellesmission.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.steiner.493966/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steiner7250/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-steiner-0573ba260/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/michellesmission.bsky.social

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