Dis-labled: Disabled Voices, Real Stories
Created and presented by people with disabilities, learning disabilities, autism and long-term health conditions, this is a space to share experiences, challenge stereotypes, and talk about the things that matter to us.Dis-labled is produced by Community Focus Inclusive Arts, a North London charity supporting adults and young people with additional needs through creativity, friendship and opportunity.Also broadcast on Resonance 104.4FM.
The Things We Love: Music, Baking, TikTok, Reading and More...
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What do baking brownies, TikTok, playing the bass guitar and Anglo-Saxon history have in common? They're all part of this week's wonderfully varied conversation on Dis-labled!
Carol, Raheem, Stefanos, Dave Strings and our newest presenter, David, get together to talk about the hobbies, passions and interests that make them tick.
Raheem shares his love of cooking and baking, Carol talks about expressing herself and building confidence through TikTok, and Dave Strings reveals his passion for music and the many instruments he plays.
And then there's David! Our...
We Hit the Dancefloor for Our First Pop-Up Podcast! Rhythm Stick at Alexandra Palace
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What happens when Dis-labled swaps the studio for a nightclub?
For our very first pop-up podcast, we headed to the legendary Alexandra Palace Theatre for Rhythm Stick, an inclusive club night packed with music, dancing and some wonderfully colourful characters!
Armed with microphones and our very own podcast booth, our presenters Jonathan, Marcus, Gila, Carol and Remi got chatting to clubbers, DJs and the people behind the event.
We meet DJ Shalem, hear from Alexandra Palace's Jen about the thinking behind Rhythm Stick...
Growing in Confidence: Our Journeys Towards Independence
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What does independence really mean when you have a disability? And how do you find the confidence to take those first steps?
In this encouraging episode of Dis-labled, we explore the challenges and achievements of becoming more independent.
Lizzie shares how she overcame her anxiety about public transport through travel training and is now preparing for work placements. Gila discusses managing anxiety and her ambition to move into supported living, while Jonathan reflects on overcoming self-doubt and recognising his progress.
We also hear about Amir's...
Philanthropy: A Community Shop Built on Creativity & Collaboration
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What happens when a community shop, an inclusive arts organisation and a group of talented young artists come together?
In this special episode, the Dis-labled Podcast visits Philanthropy in Palmers Green, an independent community shop founded by Esther and Phil with a very different approach to retail. Philanthropy puts people and community at the heart of what it does, with 65% of its profits supporting the local community, including adults with learning difficulties and people experiencing mental health difficulties. It also creates paid work opportunities and supports local...
Living with Colitis, Autism & ADHD: A Day in Jonathan's Life
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What happens when three different conditions affect almost every part of your day?
In Episode 78 of Dis-labled, our very own Jonathan takes centre stage for an honest, revealing and often funny conversation in our Living With series.
Jonathan lives with colitis, autism and ADHD, and he explains how these conditions affect everything from his daily routine and ability to leave the house to his concentration, relationships and mental health.
He talks candidly about his colitis diagnosis, the challenges of living with a condition that isn't...
Feeling Too Much: Autism, Hyper-Empathy and Emotions
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In our last episode we began exploring the relationship between autism and empathy.
Today we're continuing that conversation as our ARTiculate Skills Club students talk about what empathy actually feels like, why it can sometimes be overwhelming, and why every autistic person's experience is different.
These are real conversations, real experiences and real opinions from autistic people themselves.
00:00 Feeling Too Much: Autism, Hyper-Empathy and Emotions
00:19 Autism & Empathy: Can Autistic People Feel Too Much?
01:32 Catching Up With the Dis-labled Team
04:17 Yasmine o...
Do Autistic People Lack Empathy? Challenging the Biggest Myth
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Today we're exploring a stereotype that many autistic people have heard for years: that autistic people don't have empathy. Is it true? Or is it one of the biggest misunderstandings about autism?
Our ARTiculate Skills Club students share their own experiences, challenge common myths and explain why empathy isn't always expressed in the way people expect.
To find out more about Skills Club please contact Flo Alfrey on 020 3743 2326, or email [email protected]
<...
Disability Festival in the Park: More Than Just a Festival
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What makes a festival truly inclusive?
In this special episode of the Dis-labled Podcast, our team heads to Disability Festival in the Park in Wanstead, Redbridge, to meet the people, charities and community organisations helping to make one of London's most accessible festivals a reality.
Join Marcus, Andrea, Milan, Carol, Remy and the team as they speak to organisers, exhibitors and festival-goers about why this unique event is so important. Discover how accessible festivals can build confidence, reduce isolation, celebrate disabled talent and bring communities...
Living with Autism & Muscular Dystrophy: Gila's Story
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What is it like living with autism, muscular dystrophy and speech and language difficulties?
In this episode of Dis-labled, Gila shares an honest and emotional account of her daily life. She talks about work, friendships, independence, anxiety, using a wheelchair, and the challenges of navigating a world that doesn't always understand disability.
Gila also opens up about masking, hiding her true feelings, and the pressure to appear happy when things are difficult. Along the way, she reflects on how far she has come, the obstacles she has...
What Happens When Inclusion Works? | Live Dis-labled Forum
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What becomes possible when disabled and neurodivergent people are genuinely listened to, supported and included?
Recorded live at the Community Focus Summer Festival, this special Dis-labled forum brings together students, speakers, artists, parents, carers and community leaders to share powerful stories of confidence, creativity, employment and belonging.
Hear how opportunities like podcasting, art, creative writing and inclusive workplaces have helped people find their voice, build confidence and become active members of their communities.
Featuring Carol's moving poem Unmasking, Marcus sharing his experience of living with Multiple Sclerosis...
Big News! The National Lottery Community Fund Is Backing Dis-labled
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Hello and welcome to another episode of the Dis-labled Podcast.
We're really pleased you've joined us because today is a very special episode.
Over the past three years, we've shared our stories, talked honestly about disability and neurodiversity, had lots of laughs, met some incredible guests and, most importantly, created a place where people can speak openly and be listened to.
Today we're celebrating everything we've achieved together, because we've got some exciting news to share.
We'll be looking back at some of our favourite...
Can Laughter & Positivity Help You Live Longer?
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Dick Van Dyke (of Mary Poppins fame) is now 100 years old, says that staying positive and not holding onto anger is the secret to staying young - and science seems to agree.
Studies show that optimistic people can live around 11 to 15 percent longer, and in some cases even up to 10 years more.
So today, we’re diving into the power of humour, joy, and a positive mindset.
We’re asking: what genuinely makes you laugh no matter your mood? Who are the people that always lift...
Living With Multiple Sclerosis: Marcus's Story of Positivity and Purpose
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What is it really like to live with Multiple Sclerosis?
In this episode of Dis-labled, Marcus shares his experience of living with MS, how it affects his daily life, and the challenges he faces along the way. He also talks about the things that keep him motivated, including his love of Marvel, staying positive, and finding purpose through difficult times.
Marcus's message is simple but powerful: don't let a diagnosis define your future.
00:00:16 - Intro
00:01:06 - The Good News
00:03:54 - Marcus explanation of Multiple Sclerosis<...
Autism, Art and Confidence: Finding Our Voice
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In today's episode we discuss Skills Club, a club within our ARTiculate programme for young people aged 24-30.
Join Tara, Sophia, Dave, Jordan, Stephanos and Flo as they share how Skills Club has helped them develop confidence, creativity, friendships and practical skills through art, volunteering and community projects.
From autism and social anxiety to employment, independence and finding a place to belong, this honest and uplifting conversation explores the real impact that a supportive and inclusive community can have on young disabled adults.
...
Living With a Brain Injury: Havva's Life, Challenges and Triumphs
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In this episode of Dis-labled, Havva takes us through a day in her life and shares her experience of living with a brain injury.
With her trademark humour and honesty, Havva talks about family, friendships, daily routines, the things she enjoys most, and some of the challenges she faces. It's a warm, uplifting conversation that offers a genuine insight into her life and personality.
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:14 - Intro
00:01:59 - The Good News
00:06:35 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:07:54 - Discussion: A Day in My Life...
From Community Focus to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition: Laurent's Journey
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Community Focus artist Laurent Barsotti has achieved something extraordinary.
In this special episode of Dis-labled, we follow Laurent’s journey from Community Focus to exhibiting at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions.
We begin at Royal Academy varnishing day, where Royal Academician Humphrey Ocean explains why Laurent’s London bus painting stood out from thousands of entries and earned a place in his room. We also hear from comedian Harry Hill, an admirer and col...
Dating With a Disability: Confidence, Safety and Taking the First Step
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In today’s episode, we’re returning to the topic of relationships and connection - from friendships and family, to dating. We discuss what makes us like someone, the things that might give us the ick, and having additional needs, the importance of independence in relationships. We also share advice for anyone who might feel nervous about dating or making new friends, especially when living with a disability.
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:14 - Intro
00:01:44 - The Good News
00:02:43 - The Good News: Laurent's Royal Academy Summer Show Journey
...
What Makes a Real Friend? Disability, Trust and Connection
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In today’s episode, we’re talking all about relationships and connection – from friendships and family to dating, online connections, and everything in between. Plus, we hear part three of Alistair’s new series, “Pavement Guest,” where he talks about temperature control and global warming in his own unique style.
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:16 - Intro
00:01:42 - Good news
00:09:15 - Relationships discussion - The Different Ways We Connect part 1
00:13:21 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:18:52 - Relationships discussion - The Different Ways We Connect part 2
00:27:05 - Final Thou...
Trying Something New: Hobbies, Confidence and Future Dreams
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In today’s episode, we return to the topic of hobbies, creativity, and the little things that make life interesting.
We had so much to talk about that we had to make two episodes, so today we discuss the hobbies we’d like to try in the future.
We also hear part two of Alistair’s new series, “Pavement Guest”, in which his discusses whether being positive is recommendable, in his own unique style!
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tuesday at 2.30pm, repeated Fridays at 1pm, or listen...
Why Hobbies Matter: Creativity, Confidence and Having Fun
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In today’s episode, we explore hobbies, creativity, and the little things that make life interesting. From arts and crafts, gaming, and poetry to baking, bird-watching, and even quirky guilty pleasures, we share the passions that recharge us, make us laugh, and reveal a bit about who we are.
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:12 - Intro
00:02:11 - The Good News
00:06:40 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:09:12 - Discussion: What is a hobby?
00:22:13 - What do you do to recharge your batteries?
00:23:12 - Pointless discussion
00:26:41 - Final Thoughtsl
BBC's The Great British Sewing Bee: Inclusive Casting and Application Advice
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In today’s episode, we’re delighted to welcome Alexia Barrett from The BBC’s The Great British Sewing Bee. We’ll be talking about inclusivity, life behind the scenes of the show, and why she is encouraging more diverse casting.
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:11 - Intro
00:02:35 - We Meet Alexia Barrett from The Great British Sewing Bee
00:06:17 - Alexia's message for disabled sewists
00:07:43 - Why is the BBC interested in inclusion now?
00:08:47 - Support for contestants
00:13:47 - How do people apply for The Grea...
Confidence, Self-image & Looking Good
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Today we’re talking about confidence, self-image, and the idea of “looking good". Does looking good make us feel good? We’ll look at how appearance affects confidence, from bad hair days to clothes, weight, and all the messages we pick up from social media, TV, school, and the people around us.
We’ll also talk about why accepting ourselves can be so hard, and what confidence really means - on our own terms!
00:00:00 - Start
00:01:12 - Intro
00:01:50 - Does looking good, make you feel good?
00:13:37 - Spots<...
Living With OCD, Pet Peeves & Personal Passions
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In this episode of Dis-labled, we explore the everyday frustrations that can have a big impact on our lives.
Hasel talks openly about living with OCD, how it affects her daily routines, and the challenge of finding a balance between staying organised and looking after her wellbeing. Amy shares her frustration when people talk about her instead of speaking directly to her, leading to an honest discussion about disability, communication and feeling heard.
The team also discusses their biggest pet peeves, from losing things and people-pleasing to untidiness and b...
Anxiety Special: How It Affects Us and What to Do About It
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In today’s episode, we talk openly and honestly about anxiety — what it really feels like, how it shows up in our everyday lives, and why it can be so difficult to manage.
We share our personal experiences, explore simple coping strategies, and discuss small, practical tools that can help make anxiety feel more manageable. If you’re living with anxiety or supporting someone who is, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone.
We’ve included some UK-based support links below if you need e...
Why Music Matters - The Songs That Shape Our Lives
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Why do we listen to music? Why can one song feel like home, while another takes us straight back to a moment in time?
In today’s episode, we’re talking all about music. The songs we love. The genres that shape us. And the tracks that help us focus, lift our mood, and say what we can’t put into words.
From comfort songs to full-volume sing-alongs, we’re sharing how music fits into our everyday lives.
Click here for a playlist of our favourite...
Return to Oak Lodge School – Where Are Our Pupil Podcasters Now?
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We're returning to Oak Lodge School – and we couldn't be more excited!
In this bonus episode, we head back to Oak Lodge to catch up with our brilliant pupil podcasters who stole our hearts the first time around. Since we last visited, so much has happened – so we're sitting back down with our original mic-holders to find out how the podcasting project changed things for them, what they've learned, and where they're headed next.
Have they caught the podcasting bug for good? Did the experience open new doors...
45 Nowhere St Omnibus - Six Episodes of our Spooky Soap Opera Back to Back!
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Welcome back to the Dis-Labled Podcast!
Today we are doing something a little bit different because this episode is an omnibus of our soap opera ‘45 Nowhere Street’.
We (the students of Community Focus) wrote and performed this soap opera. We think it is very good and you will enjoy it. It is even better than Eastenders and Coronation Street. Take a seat and enjoy!
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Phil Powell
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tues...
The Written Word: Poems & Stories by CF Students
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In today’s episode, we celebrate the written word through poems and talking tales written and performed by CF students.
Featuring original voices and creative storytelling, this episode brings together spoken word and narrative pieces that showcase the imagination, insight, and expression of CF’s young writers.
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Phil Powell
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tuesday at 2.30pm, repeated Fridays at 1pm, or listen anytime wherever you get your podcasts.
Project Managers: Andrea Rai...
The Cost of Happiness, Restaurant Nightmares & Carol Time!
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Today we’re asking the big question: How much does the journey to happiness really cost? Carol shares a moving poem on emotions, while Julia and Nadine bring a hilarious Talking Tale about a diner’s argument with a confused waiter. The group swaps dining-out stories, uncovers what a “Sharon” is—and Carol takes the mic solo for the first time, with surprising results.
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Phil Powell
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tuesday at 2.30pm, repeated Fridays at...
Combatting Loneliness: Barnet Friends Join Us in the Studio
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In today’s episode, we’re talking about something that touches many lives — loneliness. Joining us in the studio is Adam Wilson, a representative from Barnet Friends, a local organisation dedicated to supporting people who may be feeling lonlely or isolated. Barnet Friends connect volunteers with individuals who need companionship, a listening ear, or simply a friendly presence in their lives.
We’ll hear from Adam about the work they do, the difference these connections can make, and how we can all play a part i...
Are We Introvert or Extrovert? Plus Annie & Phil Share Their Amazing News
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In today’s episode, we are celebrating! Annie has completed her Foundation year at Chickenshed, and we’re so proud of all she’s achieved. She also shares some insight into what it’s like to study on a course with additional needs, and the amazing support she has received along the way.
Phillip has been recognised in a special way too, receiving an award for his kindness — as well as the joy and positivity that make him such a valued member of our community.
We also have a thoughtful...
Happy New Year! We Talk About Doubting Ourselves & Our Hopes For 2026
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Welcome back to the world-famous Dis-labled Podcast! It’s a new year, and we’re kicking it off with a discussion about our doubts and hopes for this year.
Whether you’re here to laugh, learn, or just hang out, we’re glad you’re starting 2026 with us!
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Phil Powell
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tuesday at 2.30pm, repeated Fridays at 1pm, or listen anytime wherever you get your podcasts.
Project Managers: Andrea Rai...
It’s our 50th Episode! We Celebrate with the Incredible Musician: Genesis Brown
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In today’s episode, we’re celebrating a huge milestone — our 50th podcast episode! To mark the occasion, we’re joined by a very special guest, Genesis Brown, an autistic savant performer whose incredible talent and story has inspired us all.
Genesis will be singing for us, and we’ll also be chatting with him and his mum about his life, his love of music, and the journey they’ve shared together.
Join us as we mark 50 episodes of connection, creativity, and community.
Project...
The Holiday Super-Show: Jokes, Quizzes & Festive Feasts
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Welcome back to the show! Today’s episode is full of festive fun. We’re talking about our holiday plans - some of us celebrating Christmas, others celebrating Hannukah, and plenty of traditions in between.
We’ve got a sleigh-load of seasonal goodies: festive jokes, a holiday quiz, and a chat about the best and worst parts of a Christmas–Hannukah meal.
However you celebrate during the holidays, we’re excited to have you with us. Enjoy the episode!
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Ph...
Fixations, Obsessions or Just Passionate? Maria's Day-trip & What Causes us Pressure
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In Episode 48, we’re thrilled to introduce our newest voice — Dean joins the crew! We dive deep into the world of fixations and obsessions — the good, the tricky, and how they show up in everyday life.
Maria also takes us on a little journey through her recent seaside trip, and we chat about what’s ahead that’s keeping us excited... and what stresses us out!
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Phil Powell
Hear us on Resonance 104.4FM every Tuesday at...
Anti Bullying Week Special - Our Presenters Share Their Stories
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Welcome to an important episode of the podcast. This week, in recognition of Anti-Bullying Week, we’re doing something a little different — and a little heavier than usual.
In this episode, we open up about our own real experiences with bullying — stories that may be difficult to hear at times, but that we believe are vital to share.
If you’re currently being bullied, or if anything in this episode feels upsetting, please remember you’re not alone.
Here ar ethe details for the Nat...
Accessibility Isn’t Just Ramps: The Barriers We Still Face
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In this special half term episode, we’re diving into some big topics and plenty of laughs. First up, we’re talking accessibility—everything from getting into buildings to accessing meaningful work, and why these things matter.
Then, Richard wows us with his amazing party trick—you won’t want to miss it! We also chat about our hobbies, share a few laughs over our favourite TV comedies, and swap some feel-good recommendations.
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell.
Editor: Ph...
Remi Returns! How She Raised £7K to Buy Power-Assisted Wheels
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We welcome back friend of the show, Remi!
She tells us all about the Be:Loved night, we catch up on how everyone’s doing, and we hear Carol’s Talking Tale.
Remi also shares her struggle to get power-assisted wheels — proving once again that if you want something done properly, you’ve sometimes you’ve got to do it yourself!
You can find info on the Be:Loved event Remi mentioned here.
You can...
Flo Perry: From Chemistry Lab to Professional Artist
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How do you go from studying chemistry to becoming a professional artist?
In this episode of Dis-labled, we meet artist and Community Focus tutor Flo Perry. Flo shares her unusual journey from university chemistry labs to a successful career in art, explains why she chose to follow her passion, and offers advice for anyone dreaming of a creative future.
We discuss painting, creativity, inspiration, favourite artworks, life as a self-taught artist, and what it's really like earning a living through art. Along the way, our presenters ask some wonderfully...
The Return of the CF Choir! What Music Means to Us
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In today's episode, we are thrilled to be back with the CF choir, guided by our singing teacher Sarah.
We'll be exploring some brilliant tunes, such as Sunshine on My Shoulders and Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go! while learning vocal techniques to help develop and support our voices.
We also chat with some of our singers to discover why music means so much to them. Stay tuned, and sing along with us if you know the words!
Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil...
