Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today’s expert episode, #259, with documentary filmmaker and disability advocate Dan Habib.
These expert episodes feature conversations with professionals, advocates, and storytellers whose work supports caregiving families and the disability community.
In this episode, hosts Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe talk with Dan about his journey from photojournalist to acclaimed filmmaker and advocate for disability inclusion.
Dan shares how the birth of his son Samuel transformed both his family’s life and the trajectory of his work. Through projects like Including Samuel and The Ride Ahead, Dan has used storytelling and documentary filmmaking to challenge misconceptions about disability, amplify disabled voices, and advocate for systems rooted in belonging, mentorship, and interdependence.
The conversation explores the impact of mentorship in disability advocacy, the importance of authentic representation in media, and the lessons Dan has learned from Samuel about patience, communication, and community. Dan also speaks candidly about the fragility of support systems for families and the ongoing work of creating a more inclusive society where disabled individuals are valued, supported, and empowered.
Jessica, Susanna, and Zoe also discuss the emotional realities of parenting children with disabilities, balancing independence and support, and the importance of building communities where families feel seen and understood.
This episode is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about advocacy, storytelling, and the power of community to create meaningful change.
Find more information about Dan Habib here.
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Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe here.
Find Dr. Zoe’s book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shamehere.
Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.
Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enoughhere.
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