061 Disability Is Not a Bad Word: Jenna D’Angelo Shiner on Accessibility, Faith, and Living with Chronic Illness

What does it look like to navigate life when the world isn’t always built with disability in mind? In this episode, I’m joined by Jenna D’Angelo Shiner, who shares her journey from being able-bodied to living with chronic illness and disability. We talk about mobility aids, internalized ableism, accessibility, faith, church culture, and why disability is not a bad word. This honest conversation explores what it means to live fully, advocate well, and create spaces where everyone belongs.

What You’ll Learn

• Jenna’s journey into disability and chronic illness

• The emotional transition from able-bodied to disabled

• Why using mobility aids can bring freedom instead of defeat

• What internalized ableism looks like and why so many struggle with it

• How disability identity shapes the way we see ourselves

• Why accessibility matters and practical examples of barriers people face every day

• How churches can become more welcoming and inclusive

• The relationship between faith, healing, and living with chronic illness

• Why loving others includes advocating for accessibility and justice

One Tiny Step

Take a fresh look at one space you frequent—your church, workplace, favorite coffee shop, or even your home—and ask yourself, “Would this be easy to navigate for someone with a disability?” Small changes can make a big difference.

Guest Info

Jenna D’Angelo Shiner is a social worker, disability advocate, and passionate voice for accessibility and disability justice. She lives with chronic illness and disability and loves helping people better understand what life actually looks like for those navigating a world that isn’t always designed with them in mind.

Find her at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenna.reza

Instagram: instagram.com/jenrezdan

Resources

• Join The Unseen Sisterhood newsletter

• Visit The Invisible Illness Club website

• Listen to more episodes of The Invisible Illness Club podcast

Credits

Host: April Aramanda

Guest: Jenna D’Angelo Shiner

Music: AudioJungle