In this episode, we talk to Kendall Ciesemier, a writer, producer, reporter, and health and disability advocate. Nora celebrated the launch event of So, Life Wants You Dead during Disability Pride Month last July when we recorded this conversation. We're so excited to launch our second season with this conversation.

Kendall discusses her experience with liver transplant, navigating disability disclosure, and the societal stigmas associated with the term 'disability.' Both Nora and Kendall share personal stories about their health experiences, the empowerment found in disability identity, and the importance of community engagement. We touch on the challenges of navigating systemic ableism, the value of visibility, and the need for deeper cultural understanding and legislative change to support disabled individuals.

Artwork by Ronaé Fagon; Music by Milo Segal

00:00 Introduction to 'So, Life Wants You Dead'

00:36 Meet Kendall Ciesemier: Writer, Producer, and Advocate

00:53 Celebrating Disability Pride Month

02:17 Kendall's Story and Advocacy

04:51 Navigating Disability Disclosure

07:10 Empowerment Through Disability Identity

15:02 Kendall's Early Advocacy Work

17:58 Challenges and Community in Disability

20:03 The Stigma and Reality of Disability

29:05 Connecting Mental Health and Disability Rights

32:39 Workplace Accommodations and Advocacy

36:08 Media Representation of Disabilities