Different by Design: Rethinking Disability and Inclusion

Breaking Barriers in Faith, Disability, and Inclusion

In this powerful episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, host Brady Murray sits down with Monica Mangiacapra—an author, advocate, and mother who is reshaping the conversation around disability and faith. Inspired by her son Isaac, who has Down syndrome, Monica wrote Different by Design, a children’s book that challenges outdated narratives and educates young minds about disabilities in a way that fosters understanding rather than pity.

This episode doesn’t shy away from the hard truths: many families of children with disabilities feel excluded from church communities, often forced to leave due to a lack of accommodation. Monica calls for bold action—churches must stop seeing disability as a burden and start embracing it as an opportunity for radical inclusion. Her story of self-publishing Different by Design is proof that stepping into discomfort and breaking traditional molds can open unexpected doors of impact.

Monica’s journey is a wake-up call to parents, educators, and faith leaders: disabilities are not limitations; they are purposeful, designed differences that enrich our communities. She encourages all of us to ask tough questions, challenge the status quo, and create spaces where every child—regardless of ability—is seen, valued, and celebrated.

This episode will leave you inspired and maybe even a little uncomfortable—in the best way possible. Are we truly building inclusive spaces, or just offering performative support? It’s time for action, and Monica is leading the charge.