Where The Ramp Ends

Where The Ramp Ends

Where the Ramp Ends is a podcast about disability, inclusion, and what happens when good intentions meet real life. Hosted by Summer Parrish and Bryce Wooten, the show centers lived experience, honest conversation, and the voices of people with disabilities, family members, and advocates working to change systems—not just optics. From policy and history to parenting, culture, and everyday barriers, we talk about what inclusion actually looks like when the ramp ends and real access begins.

  1. 4d ago

    Jawanda Mast - National Down Syndrome Congress Grass Roots Advocacy Manager on Storytelling and Advocacy

    Breaking down the journey from diagnosis to advocacy — with heartfelt storytelling that transforms doubt into empowerment. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or advocate feeling overwhelmed by the challenges and seeking hope and practical tools, this episode is your blueprint for change.Imagine turning uncertainty into unstoppable advocacy. From the moment her daughter Rachel was born with Down syndrome, Jawanda Mast became a fierce and compassionate voice for inclusion, legislation, and family support. Her story reveals how a prenatal diagnosis, combined with knowledge, persistence, and community connection, can shape policy and change lives.You'll discover: How early intervention laid the foundation for lifelong inclusion and friendshipThe remarkable impact of personal stories in shaping legislation like the ABLE Act and access to servicesPractical tips for building relationships with legislators and policy makers — even with no political connectionsWhy advocacy isn’t just for policymakers — it starts at home, with teaching kids to find their voiceThe power of shared experiences and peer support in navigating life's hurdlesIn a world where societal hurdles often stand in the way of opportunity, Jawanda’s advocacy journey highlights what’s possible when families refuse to accept the status quo. Her insights show that advocacy isn’t just about policy — it’s about ensuring every individual lives their fullest, most independent life. Perfect for parents just receiving a diagnosis or seasoned advocates looking to deepen their impact, this episode offers motivation, strategies, and hope. As Jawanda reminds us: your voice is a vital tool for creating a world where dreams—like a pink house someday—become realities. With decades of experience and a heart full of love, Jawanda proves that even with no connections or big bank accounts, persistent storytelling and building genuine relationships can forge groundbreaking change. This isn’t just a conversation — it’s a call to action for everyone committed to building a more inclusive future. Who should listen: Parents, educators, disability advocates, policymakers, and anyone passionate about creating opportunity and equity. Credibility: Jawanda Mast is the grassroots advocacy manager for the National Down Syndrome Congress, with over 27 years of personal and professional advocacy experience, known for transforming stories into policy change and inspiring a new generation of self-advocates. To connect with the National Down Syndrome Congress click here: https://ndsccenter.org/ Jawanda's blog click here: The Sassy Southern Gal To connect with Where The Ramp Ends click here.

    1 hr

  2. May 27

    Unlock the Power of True Inclusion—How One Advocate’s Journey Is Changing Lives and Schools. Dr. Patrick Schwarz Joins Where The Ramp Ends For A Conversation About Inclusion

    Don't forget to rate and review our podcast on Spotify! Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue sharing impactful stories.What happens when childhood friendship sparks a lifelong mission to transform education and community for people with disabilities? Dr. Patrick Schwarz shares a heartfelt story that reveals how personal experience and unwavering advocacy can reshape perceptions and policies around inclusion. From witnessing a friend's struggle with institutionalization to becoming a pioneering educator and speaker, Patrick's journey demonstrates how one person's passion can drive systemic change—even in the face of fear and misconceptions. In this episode, you'll discover: How a childhood friendship with a boy with Down syndrome ignited Patrick’s commitment to inclusion and advocacy.The innovative frameworks like differentiation and Universal Design for Learning that make inclusion possible and effective.Success stories that illustrate the profound impact of simple supports and accommodations on students’ lives.Practical strategies for parents and advocates to challenge systems lovingly and collaboratively, fostering true belonging in classrooms.The latest research proving inclusion benefits all students—disabling stereotypes and cultivating empathy and citizenship.Why does this matter? Because every child deserves a place at the table—not just as a token but as an integral part of the community—building a future where diversity is embraced, and everyone learns from everyone else. Missing out on inclusive practices risks perpetuating fear, exclusion, and missed potential. But with the right knowledge, advocacy, and support, we can create schools and communities where “belonging” is the norm, not the exception. This episode is essential listening for educators, parents, policymakers, and advocates committed to real change. Patrick Schwarz’s inspiring insights and practical wisdom will leave you motivated to champion inclusion in every space. Join us in embracing the future where everyone belongs everywhere. Patrick Schwarz is an acclaimed educator, author, and advocate known for his groundbreaking work in inclusive education and transforming perceptions around disability. His leadership has impacted countless students, families, and schools nationwide. Get ready to be inspired—because when we believe in possibility, change becomes a community effort. Let’s build a world where everyone truly belongs. You can connect with Patrick, order his books or find more of the resources he offers here. You can connect with Where The Ramp Ends and find all of our links here.

    48 min

  3. May 20

    Dr. Bradley Mays - Oklahoma's Developmental Disabilities Council Advocacy Training Coordinator

    Please rate and review to help us reach others. Most people underestimate the power of simply sharing your story—and the profound impact it can have. Dr. Brad Mays, a man living with cerebral palsy and passionate advocate, reveals how authenticity and vulnerability transformed his life and advocacy journey in Oklahoma. Growing up and navigating a world that often overlooked accessibility, Brad shares deeply personal lessons about resilience, the importance of community, and why representation matters beyond inspiration. From childhood playgrounds to passing legislation, his story proves that your voice can spark systemic change—even when the odds seem stacked against you.You'll discover: How Brad's experiences with IEPs and overcoming societal expectations shaped his advocacy workThe vital role of authentic storytelling in creating impact and fostering understandingPractical advice for parents raising children with disabilities and young advocates stepping into leadership rolesWhy "dignity of risk" is crucial for empowering people with disabilities to live fullyThe power of community and lifelong friendships built through shared struggles and triumphsThis episode is perfect for anyone committed to disability rights, advocates seeking inspiration, or parents encouraging their children to dream big despite challenges. Brad's perspective reminds us that behind every disability is a person with purpose, passion, and the desire to make a difference. Brad Mays is the advocacy training coordinator for the Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma. His work as a self-advocate and educator is transforming perceptions—and lives—every day. If you believe storytelling can change the world, this episode will deepen that conviction. It’s an honest, heartfelt conversation about overcoming obstacles, challenging stereotypes, and why living your truth is the most powerful form of advocacy. Hit play and get inspired to lift others—and yourself.To connect with Where The Ramp Ends on social media click here: https://linktr.ee/where.the.ramp.ends?utm_source=linktree_profile_sharesid=a556c3cc-a57e-4bda-b1eb-cf7355b57fe8

    57 min

  4. May 6

    From Dominating Ironman Races to Building a Movement—Kyle Pease’s Blueprint for Making a Difference

    Please hit the follow button and rate and review to help others find this podcast. Most people view success as a straight line — but Kyle Pease's story proves it’s a vibrant, unpredictable journey filled with resilience, love, and breakthroughs. When you're told you're never supposed to achieve what you dream of, Kyle flips the script, showing that passion and grit rewrite expectations every single day. If you're ready to embrace your true potential despite the odds, this episode is your wake-up call.Kyle Pease, a lifelong wheelchair user and Ironman champion, shares how his relentless pursuit of inclusion has transformed not only his life but inspired thousands. From training with Skittles and potato chips to conquering Hawaii’s toughest race, his journey reveals the power of perseverance and community. Kyle dives into how he’s built a foundation that’s helped over 4,000 families—and why asking for help, investing in mental health, and embracing independence are pivotal lessons for us all.You'll discover: Kyle's groundbreaking approach to navigating daily life with cerebral palsy, including independent travel on Atlanta’s Marta system and turning societal misconceptions into opportunities for growth. He reveals the significance of caregivers as family, the emotional highs of crossing an Ironman finish line, and why every obstacle is an invitation to prove what’s possible. Plus, insights on fostering inclusion, the importance of role models, and how a mindset focused on love and hope sparks extraordinary achievements.Living with a disability doesn’t mean living on the sidelines — it means breaking barriers, rewriting success stories, and inspiring the next generation to dream bigger. Whether you're a caregiver, athlete, parent, or someone seeking to unlock your own potential, this episode offers radical optimism and actionable wisdom to challenge what you thought was possible.Perfectly suited for those ready to transform limitations into launchpads for greatness, Kyle’s story will stay with you long after the final seconds of the race. Hit play and get inspired to see your own life as a race worth running. Guest Credibility:Kyle Pease is an Ironman finisher, two-time World Champion, and founder of the Kyle Pease Foundation, dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through sports and community. To learn more about The Kyle Pease Foundation click here. To learn more about Where The Ramp Ends click here.

    50 min

  5. Apr 27

    Shannon Pinkerton with The Pinkerton Boys Discusses Adoption, Foster Care and Disability

    Please rate and review to help others find this podcast. Thank you for your support! Most people view Down syndrome and children with disabilities through a narrow, often negative lens — but Shannon Pinkerton flips that perspective on its head. Shannon and her husband adopted six boys, five with Down syndrome, Shannon shares her inspiring, unfiltered journey of adopting, fostering, and loving children who often fall through the cracks of the system — and proving that these kids are capable of more than society expects.In this heartfelt episode, Shannon challenges the stereotypes that shroud disabilities. You’ll discover how her family’s unwavering approach fosters independence, respect, and dignity for her boys, even in moments that seem like setbacks. From navigating foster care and adoption to breaking down misconceptions and confronting societal ableism, her story is a testament to the power of love and advocacy. She shares practical advice on how to treat children with Down syndrome as “normal,” emphasizing that expectations and community support make all the difference.We break down: How to shift your mindset from pity to empowermentThe importance of exposing children with disabilities to mainstream settingsWhy nurturing biological family connections enriches a child's identityThe impact of community and social media in fighting stigmaReal stories of resilience, including Cameron’s quest to find his biological family and Tracy’s unexpected adoption journeyEvery parent, educator, or caregiver who wants to see beyond labels and unlock the full potential of children with disabilities will find inspiration and actionable strategies here. Shannon’s experience illustrates that when society treats kids with Down syndrome as capable individuals, everyone wins.This episode isn’t just a story — it’s a rallying cry for inclusion, dignity, and love. Perfect for anyone involved in special needs advocacy, fostering, or simply looking to broaden their understanding. Tune in and discover why these kids aren’t just surviving — they’re thriving, with the right support, expectations, and community.Join Shannon and her family in redefining what’s possible — because everyone deserves to be seen, loved, and celebrated. You can follow The Pinkerton Boys on TikTok and on Facebook. You can follow all of Where Ramp Ends socials and stay informed on our projects here.

    1h 1m

  6. Apr 20

    Ricki Sabia -Senior Education Policy Advisor, National Down Syndrome Congress

    Please rate and review! Hit the follow button and share! Help us grow our audience! Most parents of children with Down syndrome—and even advocates—would agree: understanding and navigating education policy can feel overwhelming and inaccessible. But what if your voice could shape real change, starting today? Ricki Sabia, Senior Education Policy Advisor at the National Down Syndrome Congress, shares the powerful story of how she shifted from a concerned parent to a fierce advocate influencing federal and state policies that impact millions of children like hers—and yours. Her journey proves that even small actions can spark systemic transformation.In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Ricki recounts her initial moments of advocacy sparked at the beach, observing her son’s uncertain future, and how she turned that worry into a call for systemic change. You'll discover concrete strategies for effective advocacy—whether you're confronting IEP meetings for the first time or advocating for inclusive education policies at the national level. Ricki breaks down complex topics like IDEA, federal funding, and the importance of community-based services, making these essential issues accessible and actionable for families everywhere.We break down the evolution of educational inclusion, highlighting how attitudes, policies, and community support have shifted—and why there’s still work to do. You'll learn: how to advocate assertively but collaboratively in school meetings, ways to build lasting relationships with educators, and why your personal story holds transformative power. Ricki shares practical tips for parents feeling intimidated at IEP meetings, and reveals the importance of setting future-focused goals—like independent living and employment—that can dramatically change your child's life trajectory. This episode isn’t just about policy—it's about empowering you to be a catalyst for change. Whether you’re new to advocacy or seasoned in activism, Ricki’s insights remind us that every voice matters. Her inspiring perspective prioritizes inclusion, respect, and the belief that every child can reach their full potential when we work together to dismantle barriers. Perfect for parents, educators, and advocates committed to creating a future of opportunity and respect for all children with disabilities.Join us as Ricki Sabia models how lived experience, persistence, and a passion for justice can turn personal challenges into powerful advocacy tools. Discover how your voice, big or small, can help shape a more inclusive, equitable future—one policy change at a time. All the resources Ricki mentioned in the podcast are here: NDSC website https://ndsccenter.org/ NDSC Policy Pulse https://ndsccenter.org/policy/action-center/the-policy-pulse.htmlNational Down Syndrome, Advocacy Coalition (NDAC) information and free application https://ndsccenter.org/policy/national-down-syndrome-advocacy-coalition-ndac/ Sign up for NDSC action alerts https://www.votervoice.net/mobile/NDSCCenter/HomeNDSC policy and advocacy resources. Find policy briefs for families on education here https://ndsccenter.org/policy/advocacy-training-resources/briefs.html NDSC DC Policy Summit September 29-30 2026. Registration opens May 14. https://ndsccenter.org/policy/ndsc-down-syndrome-policy-summit/ TIES Center on Inclusive Policies and Practices for Students with Significant  Cognitive Disabilities https://tiescenter.org/ One pager with clickable links for TIES briefs https://ndsccenter.org/file_download/fd5f32f2-7e8d-405f-a0ce-a4c81cb4db10 Find all the ways to connect with Where The Ramp Ends here: Where The Ramp Ends

    1h 3m

  7. Apr 13

    Empowering Disability Advocacy: A Conversation with Morgan Davis

    Please rate and review this podcast to help us reach more listeners. In this episode of Where the Ramp Ends, Bryce Wooten sits down with Morgan Davis, a passionate disability advocate living with cerebral palsy. They explore Morgan's journey through advocacy, the importance of representation, accessibility, and how societal perceptions shape experiences for people with disabilities. Main Topics: Morgan Davis’s advocacy journey and leadership programs like YLF and Partners in Policymaking The social model of disability and the importance of representation in media and education Practical and simple accommodations for accessibility in daily life and work The concept of dignity of risk and independence for people with disabilities The intersection of disability with race, identity, and DEI efforts Challenges in transportation, healthcare, and the financial burdens faced by the disability community Timestamps: (00:00) - Introduction to Morgan Davis and her advocacy background (02:04) - How leadership programs like YLF and LEND shaped Morgan’s advocacy skills (08:05) - Key lessons Morgan wishes she could tell her younger self (09:32) - Advice for parents of children with disabilities starting their advocacy journey (10:11) - The analogy of moving leaves on the road as advocacy in action (13:32) - The high cost of transportation when attending college with a disability (15:30) - Financial burdens and employment barriers faced by people with disabilities (18:49) - Simple accommodations such as glasses and voice-to-text technology (22:45) - The importance of proper resources and awareness of assistive technology providers like AbleTech (35:21) - Challenging misconceptions: disability as part of DEI and social inclusion (43:01) - Morgan’s reflections on her journey from disinterest to empowerment through knowledge (47:01) - The importance of mentorship and representation in media and society (49:27) - The need for accurate media portrayals of disability and social model understanding (50:04) - Addressing the stigma around dating and relationships with disability (54:26) - Personal story of taking Julia to the bowling alley and advocating for her independence (58:23) - Dignity of risk: empowering people with disabilities to make their own choices (61:13) - Morgan’s legacy and her hopes for future advocacy impact (63:38) - Final thoughts from Morgan on her journey and encouragement for others Resources & Links: Morgan Davis Instagram Oklahoma AbleTech Disability Rights Movement history Partners in Policymaking Connect with Morgan Davis: LinkedIn Twitter Additional Notes: Morgan emphasizes that disability rights and understanding must be integrated into education at all levels, advocating for universal design and early representation. She also highlights the personal and societal benefits of viewing disability through the social model lens—a view that society's barriers, not individual impairments, create disability. Her inspiring journey encourages ongoing advocacy, representation, and compassion to foster inclusion and dignity for all. You can find all of Where The Ramp Ends links including contact information here: https://www.fixfinderusa.com/other-services/where-the-ramp-ends

    1h 5m

  8. Apr 6

    Julie Forrest Wyman On Her Film "The Tallest Dwarf"

    Julie Forest Wyman’s documentary, The Tallest Dwarf, shatters misconceptions, offering a fresh perspective on body image, identity, and community. Set to premiere on PBS’s Independent Lens on April 6th, this powerful film invites you into a world often misunderstood and misrepresented, revealing the resilience, autonomy, and humor of little people with dwarfism. In this episode, Julie shares her transformative 11-year journey of making the film—why she initially hesitated to include her own story, and how her personal experience with body diversity fueled her passion to challenge societal narratives. You’ll discover how she navigated the ethical minefield of representation, avoiding stereotypes and Fetishism, and instead empowering individuals to tell their own stories authentically. She recounts moments of self-doubt, the importance of community and support, and the unexpected revelations about her own body and identity. We break down key themes: the legacy of ableism, the importance of diversity in representation, and the ethical considerations in advocating for marginalized communities. Julie discusses her creative process, the importance of film as a tool for visibility, and how humor becomes a vital weapon against stigma. You'll learn why her film is more than a documentary—it's a call to recognize the humanity behind societal labels and a blueprint for viewers to rethink body image and inclusivity. This episode underscores why understanding and supporting minority communities through exposure and authentic storytelling is critical. If you’re passionate about social justice, filmmaking, or fostering acceptance, this is essential listening. Julie’s insights inspire action, empathy, and a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be seen. Whether you’re a parent, artist, or advocate, you’ll walk away with concrete takeaways on how to foster inclusion in your own circles—and why amplifying marginalized voices is more urgent than ever. Tune in to learn how one filmmaker’s heartfelt journey is building bridges, reshaping narratives, and inspiring a more compassionate worldview. Julie Forest Wyman is an acclaimed filmmaker and professor at UC Davis, whose work bravely confronts societal biases about bodies and identity, championing community and autonomy through her art. This episode is perfect for storytellers, students of social justice, body positivity advocates, or anyone eager to understand the power of representation and the importance of dismantling ableism. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to see the world—and yourself—in a new light.Follow Julie and her work on Instagram. And follow The Tallest Dwarf here. Please rate and review this podcast to help others find us. You can follow Where The Ramp Ends on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

    55 min
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Where the Ramp Ends is a podcast about disability, inclusion, and what happens when good intentions meet real life. Hosted by Summer Parrish and Bryce Wooten, the show centers lived experience, honest conversation, and the voices of people with disabilities, family members, and advocates working to change systems—not just optics. From policy and history to parenting, culture, and everyday barriers, we talk about what inclusion actually looks like when the ramp ends and real access begins.

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  • Creator
    Where The Ramp Ends
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Where The Ramp Ends
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    Where The Ramp Ends