Guest: Michelle Steiner, a writer, photographer, paraeducator, and disability advocate who lives with an invisible disability.
Despite being told what she couldn’t do, Michelle has forged her own path—earning her degree, publishing widely in outlets like The Mighty and Word Gathering, and building a career supporting students with disabilities. Through resilience, creativity, and self-advocacy, Michelle has challenged misconceptions and continues to inspire others to embrace their strengths.
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
Connect With Us
Support The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast on Apple Podcasts!
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts and become a valued supporter of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast!
As a Neurodiversity Insider subscriber, you’ll enjoy exclusive 7-day early access, with a 1-month free trial to every new episode before it goes public.
Your support gives you a first listen to powerful conversations and personal stories from the neurodivergent community — and helps us keep creating meaningful, empowering content that amplifies neurodiverse voices. Join our growing community of supporters and be part of the movement to celebrate and uplift neurodiversity.
Subscribe today and never miss an episode!
Visit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast/id1806028241
Share Your Voice
Your story matters — and it could help someone else feel seen. If you’re a late-diagnosed ADHD or autistic professional navigating work, creativity, or burnout, we’d love to hear from you.
The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast is collecting real experiences, insights, and stories from neurodivergent adults who are ready to speak honestly about what it’s really like to thrive (and sometimes struggle) in a world not built for our brains.
You don’t have to be a speaker or expert — just someone with a story that deserves to be heard. For more information, please visit our website.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Invisible Disabilities
04:46 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges
08:05 Education and Advocacy in Disability
09:53 The Role of a Paraeducator
11:34 Writing as a Form of Expression
15:23 Photography and Perspective
17:40 Challenging Misconceptions
19:40 Supporting Students with Disabilities
21:22 Empowerment and Personal Growth
23:25 Current Projects and Future Aspirations
24:39 Relationships and Acceptance
28:32 Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems
31:57 A Vision for an Inclusive World
33:16 Engagement and Community Building
Disclaimer:
Information from this podcast is provided for general educational information purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for advice given by your physician or other qualified health care professional. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care professional with any questions you may have. Never disregard medical advice or delay seeking medical advice because of something in this podcast. Information contained in this podcast or any websites to which a link is provided should be used only under the supervision of an appropriately qualified physician. Please consult with your physician before making any decision regarding treatment and /or medication. If you think you may be experiencing a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 immediately. Reliance on any information in this podcast is solely at your risk.
