How A Medical Mystery Made Her A Social Justice Entrepreneur

LISTEN TO THE FULL EPISODE:

The topic of disability can sometimes bring up feelings of discomfort or avoidant silence, but the reality is that it’s something that many of us will face at some point in our lives. Today’s guest, Nichole Beiner Powell-Newman, shares her journey from being a successful lawyer to fighting for equitable healthcare while navigating the challenges of a mysterious neurological disorder and seeking a diagnosis and treatment for this chronic illness. She discusses how the combination of her personal and professional background and this battle for self advocacy paved her path forward as an entrepreneur focused on social justice. In this episode, we talk about how feeling rejected at a young age shapes us, the importance of embracing the changing tides of life, and how standing up for yourself as an adult can heal your younger self while leaving a legacy of deep impact for the collective.

TOPICS

[2:25] episode start
[7:14] interview start
[8:15] Nichole’s journey
[12:40] Nichole’s “other” story
[32:00] advocating for the things you need
[50:00] permission to fail
[1:10:00] embracing community
[1:14:30] stay in touch with Nichole
[1:17:14] conclusion

RELEVANT LINKS

Nichole’s links

Nichole’s Fearless Fire talk: The Power of Sitting in the Mess
TED Tak: I got 99 problems... palsy is just one | Maysoon Zayid
Checkbox Other episode: Break Free of Perfectionism’s Grasp: Start Before You’re “Ready”

QUOTES

“If I don't show up, both strong in my truth and willing to evolve, I'm not leaving the space for them (nieces and nephews) to do that and to grow up normalizing that.” --Nichole
“What is it for me to honor the fact that life is going to be challenging and that every waking moment doesn't have to be focused solely on surviving it? That I can find pockets of joy, that I can find pockets of connection.” –Nikki
“You have to be hypervigilant sometimes to get the care that you really need.” –Nichole
“Productivity is actually something that isn't about burning yourself out and going, going, going, going, going.” –Nikki

STAY IN TOUCH