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 audience. Listeners from around the world joined in via chat while we shared personal updates, gave away a $20 Amazon gift card, and welcomed returning guest Effie Parks, host of Once Upon a Gene. Effie reflected on how our show inspired her to start her own podcast and shared moving stories of how her work connects and empowers rare disease families.

Together, we dove into the vision for Rare at Sea, our upcoming group cruise in February 2026 celebrating Rare Disease Day. From accessibility perks to the joy of connecting without a strict agenda, we discussed why this trip is as much about friendship and fun as it is about awareness. We wrapped up with gratitude notes, an open invitation for anyone connected to rare disease to join us, and a reminder to catch our next live recording on August 17, 2025.

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-image have evolved over time. From awkward teen years and early adult panic to working through tough moments, they explore the power of hindsight and personal growth. The conversation dives into public misperceptions of disability, body image struggles, and the ways they’ve learned to let go of what doesn’t matter. They wrap up with gratitude for a supportive coach and a powerful book recommendation that’s reshaping how Sean thinks about leadership and service.

Links and Resources

• Unreasonable Hospitality

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 clumsy attempts to make it right.

The episode then shifts gears with a fun and thought-provoking compilation of answers from past guests to the question: If you ruled the world, what would you change? Responses range from practical ideas like increasing accessibility and reducing barriers, to grand visions of kindness, open science, and even perfect weather in Pennsylvania. Each guest's answer serves as a reminder of how personal experiences shape our view of what the world could be.

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thank-you notes: Kyle expresses his gratitude to all his generous donors by adding each of their names to his fundraising “spirit chain,” while Sean thanks Santino, a colleague who went out of his way to share how much he enjoyed Sean's recent corporate presentation. These moments of appreciation highlight the power of connection and acknowledgment in both personal and community-driven efforts.

This episode is a reminder that even small gestures can have a world-changing impact.

Links and Resources

• Katie, Team Telomere
• Heidi, Association for Creatine Deficiencies (ACD)
• Jay, Write on, Fight on
• Rivki, CTNNB1 Connect & Cure
• Kendall, Icon
• Erin, Rea of Hope