Two Disabled Dudes
Episodes
292 - The Hidden System Behind Rare Disease Treatments
16 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What starts with airport chaos and accessibility frustrations turns into a meaningful conversation about what it really takes to move rare disease res...
291 - Taking on the World’s Longest Stairway
09 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sean shares the bold details behind his upcoming climb of the Niesen Stairway in Switzerland—the world’s longest staircase with 1...
290 - Don’t Suffer Twice
02 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 290 opens with some 2DD catch-up: Kyle finally gets an accessible room for the Rare at Sea cruise after a stressful mix-up, plus a few laughs ...
289 - Re-release: From Dad to Advocate to CEO
23 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In recognition of Rare Disease month we are bringing you a conversation that we first published in May 2024.In this interview, John Crowley shares how...
288 - Choosing to Smile Even When it's Hard
16 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sean and Kyle count down the final days before setting sail on Rare At Sea, before diving into a candid—and frustrating—travel st...
287 - The Fine Line Between Hope and Denial
09 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Kyle and Sean explore the often-blurry line between hope and denial.They unpack how hope can be powerful when it’s grounded in real...
286 - Grateful. Angry. Both.
02 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 286 marks the start of a new season—and the 10th year—of the Two Disabled Dudes Podcast. Sean and Kyle reflect on how far the show has com...
285 - Knowing When to Stop: Disability, Limits, and Letting Go
22 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when effort isn’t enough—and your body simply says no?Kyle and Sean reflect on the moments when disability turns everyday challenges ...
284 - What Achievement Asks Of Us
09 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Sean and Kyle dive into “the responsibility of achievement”—what happens when your personal wins start to carry weight for other people.Sean sha...
283 - Disability Advocacy in Work and Travel
12 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Kyle and Sean discuss the importance of disability employment and accessible travel with guest Daniel Van Sant, Director of Disabilit...
282 - Adapt the Plan, Not the Dream
25 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
It’s a live-recorded birthday hangout as Kyle turns 44 and Sean dials in from his new (very echoey) apartment mid-move. After shout-outs to folks in...
281 - Pixels With Purpose - Ben Forred
07 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This live episode features longtime friend and rare disease advocate Ben Forred. After years as a scientist studying rare conditions and leading a glo...
280 - Is Accessibility Really About Access… or Attitude?
16 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Sean and Kyle reconnect after travel, skipping a planned live stream to actually experience London. Kyle opens with the saga of curb-damage to his new...
279 - 2DD LIVE: The Power of Owning Your Disability
22 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Recorded live in-studio (CA and PA), Kyle and Sean welcome viewers and then dive into a vulnerable discussion about the transition from walking to usi...
278 - Mic Trouble, a Gift Card, and Streaking on a Cruise Ship
13 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This replay of our first-ever Two Disabled Dudes Podcast live broadcast captures all the excitement—and a few mic mishaps—of going live with our a...
277 - Season Finale - Gratitude, Growth, and Dog Poop DNA
26 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In the final episode of season 13, after a brief discussion about dog poop DNA, Kyle and Sean reflect on how their priorities, perspectives, and self-...
276 - World Domination…With a Twist of Kindness
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In Episode 276, Kyle kicks things off with a brunch story involving an oversized, impossible-to-handle coffee mug and a series of well-intentioned but...
275 - A Soft Blanket and a Bold Mission
12 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sean and Kyle kick things off with a nostalgic dive into Kyle’s latest midlife hobby—collecting Sacramento Kings basketball cards...
274 - When Compassion Leads the Play: Inside Uplifting Athletes
05 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Sean kicks things off with an update on his long-standing Starbucks habit, revealing surprising progress in cutting back—even if a freshly remodeled...
273 - Letting Go of One Dream to Discover a Thousand More
28 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Kyle and Sean get real about what it means when a circumstance such as rare disease forces you to let go of old dreams, grieve unexpe...
272 - Bridging Worlds: Empowering Patients and Transforming Trials
21 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In classic Two Disabled Dudes fashion, the episode opens with a hilariously painful recounting of bloodwork gone wrong. Kyle survives a multi-day orde...
271 - Rae of Hope: The Power of Inclusion
14 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Erin, founder of the Rae of Hope Foundation, to talk about caregiving, community, and what it...
270 - RDD 2025 with Jett Foundation: "Disability Doesn’t Define Us!"
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In partnership with Jett Foundation, we roll into an inspiring conversation with a powerhouse panel of guests who prove that nothing—not even a ridi...
269 - Red Pandas, Wheelchairs, and the Courage to Say “This Sucks”
31 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when a teenager asks, “Why are you in a wheelchair?” at the bar... and it’s not weird at all? In this episode, Sean and Kyle reflec...
268 - Energy Management: How Not to Become a Pile of Poop by 6 PM
24 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Ever feel like your energy levels are on a shoestring budget? In this episode, Sean and Kyle tackle the daily balancing act of managing energy, especi...
267 - Life After Diagnosis: The Power of Humor, Resilience, and Letting Go
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
When it comes to wheelchair repairs, navigating the system shouldn’t be harder than the fix itself—but for Sean, that’s exactly what happened. I...
266 - Spreading the Word, Saving Lives: Key Insights from ACD
10 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode features an interview with Heidi Wallis, Executive Director of the Association for Creatine Deficiencies (ACD). Heidi discusses ACD’s e...
265 - Holding Onto Hope Without Letting Go of Today
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into a topic that hits close to home: the tension between hoping for a cure and fully embracing life as it is today. We explo...
264 - A Mother's Journey with CTNNB1 Syndrome and her Family's Path to Inclusivity
24 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode features a heartfelt conversation with Rivki, a mother of six, including her youngest son, Eli, who was diagnosed with CTNNB1 syndrome, a...
263 - The Surprising Truth About Independence
17 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sean and Kyle dive into the evolving nature of independence, especially in the context of disability and life transitions. Kyle share...
262 - Do Our Resolutions Reveal Our Age?
10 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
This episode focuses on setting and maintaining goals beyond the traditional New Year's resolutions. The Dudes discuss the importance of checking in o...
261 - Season 13 Begins: Travel, Community, & Vacation Prep
03 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Season 13 kicks off with us catching up after a well-earned break, sharing our reflections on how time away can spark creativity and renew energy. Sea...
260 - Our Perceptions of Disability Were Wrong
09 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this final episode of 2024, Sean and Kyle reflect on their evolving perceptions of living with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) and how their expectation...
259 - If Sean & Kyle Won The Election
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this thought-provoking episode, Sean and Kyle discuss what laws they would institute if given ultimate power. They each introduce three laws that w...
258 - Navigating Setbacks: 4 Tips for Gaining Momentum
14 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this candid and deeply personal episode, Sean and Kyle tackle the emotional and mental struggles that come with setbacks—whether from injury, bur...
257 - Journey to the World's Highest Road, Part 2
09 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we recount a challenging experience during our cycling trip in the Himalayas. Sean shares the story of his accident, where he was for...
256 - Journey to the World’s Highest Road, Part 1
05 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode kicks off Season 12: An abbreviated season. After eight years of consistent publishing, the Dudes are scaling back for the rest of 2024 i...
255 - Season Finale - We’re Riding the World’s Highest Road
27 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In the final episode of season 11, The Dudes discuss their major upcoming event: a challenging 200-mile bike ride in the Himalayas - to the top of the...
254 - From Dad to Advocate to CEO: John Crowley's Continued Commitment
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode (254) features an interview with John Crowley, who shares his journey into the rare disease space. John's involvement started in 1998 whe...
253 - Uplifting Athletes: Harnessing the Power of Sport for Rare Diseases
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Rob Long shares his journey with Uplifting Athletes, an organization dedicated to leveraging the influence of athletes to support those impacted by ra...
252 - NFL Plans Crushed, His Response Changes Lives
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 252, Rob Long, executive director of Uplifting Athletes, revisits his rare disease journey. He recounts his college football days at Syracu...
251 - From Canes to Canines: Linda's Path to Mobility
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 251 we welcome our dear friend Linda Snyder! Linda shares her personal journey living with a rare genetic type of ataxia and discusses how ...
250 - Thriving with Duchenne - Rare Disease Day with Jett Foundation
22 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Our friends at Jett Foundation invited us into their community once again for a conversation with 5 panelists on Rare Disease Day. We were honore...
249 - 20 Years in the Making: REATA's Story of Skyclarys
15 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This episode delves into the journey of Skyclarys, the first FDA-approved treatment for Friedreich's ataxia (FA), a rare genetic disorder. The discuss...
248 - Everyone Holds a Piece w/ FARA CEO, Jen Farmer
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful interview with Jen Farmer, CEO of the Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), we explore the evolving landscape of rare disea...
247 - Tenacity and the Power of Persistence
01 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Sean and Kyle discuss the importance of maintaining discipline and focus, particularly in the face of distractions and competing prio...
246 - Empowering Accessibility, One Review at a Time
25 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss the groundbreaking work of Roll Mobility, a platform revolutionizing accessibility for people with disabilities. Roll Mobi...
245 - Settle or Soar? Embracing Uncertainty
18 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Dudes talk about life changes and the significance of pursuing growth and opportunities, even in the face of uncertainty. Reflecting on personal a...
244 - Change & Consistency with Progressive Disease
11 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In Episode 244, the Dudes delve into the topic of change and consistency, particularly in the context of living with progressive diseases like Friedre...
243 - EveryCure and the Power of Collaboration w/ Dr. David Fajgenbaum
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Dr. David Fajgenbaum shares his journey of discovering a drug that saved his own life. He emphasizes the importance of repurposing ex...
242 - Dave Lynch: 27 Years, 700+ Patients, and the First Treatment
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Dave (Dr. Lynch), a seasoned clinician and researcher specializing in Friedreich's ataxia (FA), sheds light on his nearly three-decade journey at the ...
241 - Feeling Helpless? Here Are 4 Ways To Help
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
For Rare Disease Patients, the drug development process can feel huge and overwhelming. It seems like everyone has a role to play; Doctors, rese...
240 - Adapting to Life's Curveballs
12 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Adapting to changes is a big part of life for everyone. Listen as The Dudes discuss their approach to adapting.In this episode:Kyle uses a voided ID t...
239 - Season Premier - Are You a Doer or a Talker?
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Listener Brian lets the Dudes know that Kyle has in fact been driving illegally for 10 years. Does Kyle have a plan to address this dilema?In th...
238 - Season Finale - The Dynamics of Friendship
27 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In episode 238, The Dudes delve into the theme of friendship, highlighting the significance of chosen family and exploring the dynamics of their own u...
237 - The Vital Role of Caregivers in Rare Disease Advocacy
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We are thrilled to have Effie Parks and Daniel DeFabio in this powerful episode! Together, we discuss the pivotal role of the caregiver’s voice in t...
236 - A Mom's Perspective on Devastation and Gratitude
13 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Sean and Kyle engage in a heartfelt conversation with Caley Caroll, a mother, caregiver, and fierce advocate for her son Whitten John and his health c...
235 - Addressing the Epidemic of Wheelchair Damage by Airlines
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Zach Wichter joins us to discuss the massive, yet not-so-commonly known incidents of damage to mobility devices caused by airlines. Zach is a consumer...
234 - World Duchenne Awareness Day - Jett Foundation
01 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Dudes recently had the privilege to host a virtual panel for Jett Foundation's celebration of World Duchenne Awareness Day 2023. This panel ...
233 - Should Disability Heighten Our Sense of Responsibility?
30 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Kyle and Sean discuss various incidents that prompt them to contemplate the responsibilities and expectations within the disabled com...
232 - Can Rare Disease Create Heroes?
23 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Episode 232 welcomes Matt LaFleur who shares his journey as a rare disease patient with Friedreich's ataxia (FA). Matt talks about how he transitioned...
231 - Speak Up, Stand Out: Silence is Not Advocacy
16 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this conversation, Sean and Kyle discuss the concept of advocacy and its various forms. They reflect on their experiences with advocacy, from meeti...
230 - Navigating Mental Illness: Parent Stories
09 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this interview, podcast hosts Bill Nowicki and Laura Graham discuss their podcast, "Navigating Mental Illness: Parent Stories."They talk about thei...
229 - Exercise and Motivation: Challenges of Disability
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Keeping an exercise routine is difficult for everyone. Add a rare disease in the mix and there are even more difficulties. The Dudes talk ...
228 - Podcasting Insights and Reflections
25 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Advancement is about learning and implementing new ideas and techniques. In August, The Dudes attended the Podcast Movement conference in Denver...
227 - Pushing Boundaries: A Blind Athlete's Story
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Despite being visually impaired, Dave Wilkinson has accomplished remarkable feats, including marathons and Ironman competitions. His next ambitious go...
226 - Navigating Disability & Long-term Relationships
11 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Join the dudes as they dive into a candid conversation about the complexities of commitment, relationships, and disability. They explore how disabilit...
225 - From Preterm to Pediatrician: Tyler's Triumph with CP
04 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dr. Tyler Sexton is the Medical Director of pediatrics at Singing River Health System in Mississippi. He's also an international motivational speaker ...
224 - The Power of the Patient Voice - BIO International
28 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
To kick off the inaugural Film Festival at the BIO International Conference, we had the opportunity to moderate a panel about using podcasts, video, a...
223 - Attitudes Can Change - Let's Talk Debra
21 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A few years ago, Kyle and Sean both had experiences with someone else judging them for their disability. Whether it was fair or not, both dudes ...
222 - Is Technology Good or Bad? Yes.
14 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Ever have those moments where you reflect on the past and think to yourself, “Well, 20 years ago…” and immediately realize that the memory you’...
221 -Disability & Fun Can Coexist
07 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Season 10 kicks off with ep221. Life is constantly changing, especially when living with progressive rare disease. Both Kyle & Sean are living wit...
220 - Season Finale - How Much is Too Much?
29 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For the last episode in Season 9, we want you to know how much we appreciate you listening to this show. This season has been especially trying ...
219 - Physical Therapy Goals with Dr. Gretchen Hawley
22 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Physical Therapy is an important part of care for many people in the rare disease and disability communities, However, it's difficult to find a ...
218 - Accessibility: Inconvenient or Impossible?
15 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
There are lots of things that may be accessible for one person but not another. Some are inconvenient, and some are impossible. From ...
217 - Are Disabled Students Forgotten On University Campuses?
08 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For college students, sports games are a huge part of the college experience. However, students with disabilities are often left out due to poor...
216 - The Emotional Response To Research
01 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Research studies are designed to investigate the details of our bodies and lives. The research process has the potential to point out how our di...
215 - Birthday Parties Can Be Tough with Guest Host: Effie Parks
24 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
This is the first episode ever that does not feature both Dudes! Sean is joined by our friend and guest host, Effie Parks from the Once Upon A Gene Po...
214 - Inspiration Porn - Are We Part of the Problem?
17 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
According to an article Kyle read on Forbes.com, "Inspiration Porn provides kind of superficial pleasure and gratification for the viewer, while objec...
213 - Why is Government so HARD?
10 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As Sean says: Government is HARD - especially when trying to navigate the Social Security Disability system. That’s why we talk to Spencer Bishins...
212 - Wheelchairs: If You Help, This is For You
03 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Maneuvering a wheelchair presents many situations that are much different than a person who uses their legs to get around. When you offer to help so...
211 - Thriving with Duchenne, RDD 2023
27 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
For Rare Disease Day 2023, we were honored to moderate a virtual panel with our friends at Jett Foundation. The theme was Thriving with Duchenne; a ...
210 - Death and Sex - Buckle Up!
20 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: You Got This, Mental Health - Our friend Shelley Bowen (Ep 140) takes us through her experience having the hard talk about death. Th...
209 - How A Mom Launched The First Drug Approval in FA
13 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: You Got This, Mental Health - Feeling seen and heard. Some of the responsibilty is on you. Can a single person make a differenc...
208 - Is There a Wrong Way?
06 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: The very first treatment for Friedreich's ataxia (FA) was approved last Tuesday! A deep dive into this next week. You Got This, Me...
207 - Asking For Help: Pride vs. Practicality
27 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: How Kyle ended up at Cracker Barrell for chicken fried steak at lunchtime You Got This, Mental Health featuring Andra Stratton - Man...
206 - Why Authenticity Matters at Home & Work
20 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: Dr. Kyle gives his advice. You Got This, Mental Health - Self Image Audrey Greenberg is the CBO of Discovery Labs and the Center for...
205 - Finally, A Dating App For People With Disability
13 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this Episode: Almost a year later, Kyle gives an update on his wheelchair drama. You Got This, Mental Health featuring Andra Stratton - Managing o...
204 - What If Kindness Isn't The Answer?
06 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to Season 9! Dolly Parton wants to see more kindness in 2023. However if you ask Sean, kindness is not the issue - it's awareness of others a...
203 - Reason vs Excuse: It's Up To You
28 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
There's a common debate going on in many of our heads when it comes to committments. Whether it's meeting a friend for coffee, or going to a concert...
202 - Addressing Independence and Accessibility with Rare Disease
21 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Making the transition to independence is difficult to begin with. It is further complicated if you have a rare disease. Lauren Riggs joins The Dudes ...
201 - How Does Positivity Become Toxic?
14 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
When Katie Lloyd's son was diagnosed with a rare, lifethreatning disease, she began to notice that people around her reacting to the news in some unin...
200 - State of the Podcast and A Few Favorite Moments
07 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We have been doing this for 6 years - we're still friends, and we hope a few people have enjoyed listening. Let's celebrate episode 200 with a littl...
199 - RAVE: A Principle Everyone Ought to Consider
31 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
A guiding principle Sean has adopted from his employer applies to every area of life - Respect, Appreciate, and Value Everyone, a.k.a RAVE. As a Fortu...
198 - What's Your CanDo Story?
24 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Adam Bremen is the co-founder of CanDo, the maker of the #1 Keto bar on Amazon, Keto Krisp. Despite living with Cerebral Palsy and having experienced...
197 - Looking for the Pause Button on Friedreich's Ataxia
17 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Rare Disease is ever present and relentless. Sometimes we wish we could push the pause button and live an able bodied life for a little while. Kendall...
196 - Two Disabled Slackers
10 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Sean is overwhelmed at the moment. He has too much on his plate and life is chaotic. Kyle's plate is pretty full too. However there's always som...
195 - Leveraging Crypto for Rare Disease - Vibe Bio CEO, Alok Tayi
03 Oct 2022
Contributed by Lukas
The biggest obstacle to treating patients with overlooked diseases isn’t finding potential treatments — it’s funding them. Alok Tayi Join th...
194 - Taking It Personally May Hold You Back
26 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Sean loves to play the game Risk online with people he doesn't know. When someone attacks him, rather than focusing on trying to win the game, his s...
193 - Accessibility Matters, Air Travel Is Not Exempt
18 Sep 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Kyle's Wheelchair was damaged on an American Airlines flight in April. It is now September and it is just now getting resolved. While working hi...