Navigating Disability
What if the conversation around disability focused on possibility instead of limitation?
Welcome to the Navigating Disability Podcast Show, hosted by Kate Read, a passionate advocate dedicated to changing the narrative around “normal” and “ability.”
Each week, Kate sits down with inspiring guests to explore lived experiences, expert insights, practical advice, and powerful stories from across the disability community. From advocacy and education to honest discussions about systems, supports, and real-life challenges, this podcast is about helping people feel informed, empowered, and connected.
Whether you’re living with disability, supporting a family member, working in the sector, or wanting to better understand the journey — this podcast is for you.
So get ready to be inspired, informed, and reminded that you are not navigating this journey alone.
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Navigating Disability
Wheels in Motion: Eamon Wood's Journey from Paraplegia to Pro Athlete & Entrepreneur
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After a devastating car accident at age four, Eamon Wood's life was forever changed. But instead of letting paraplegia define him, he forged a path that redefines what resilience looks like. In this powerful episode, Eamon shares his journey from becoming New Zealand's first professional wheelchair basketball player in Europe to building a family, an engineering career, and a thriving assistive tech company, Nudge Assist. He talks candidly about identity, dating, fatherhood, mental health, and the realities of navigating systems not built for inclusion. With warmth, insight, and a dash of Kiwi humour, Eamon reminds us that adaptability isn't just about mobility, it's about mindset. You’ll laugh, reflect, and probably tear up as Eamon shares the pivotal moment he stopped wishing to walk and started choosing to live fully. This episode is a must-listen for anyone needing a nudge of inspiration or practical insight into living fully with disability.
Trigger Warning: This episode contains references to trauma and addiction. If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline at 13 11 14.
More from Eamonn:
- Order physical copy of "A Backpack, a Chair and a Beard" via email waywardwheeler@gmail.com
- "A Backpack, a Chair and a Beard" on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-backpack-a-chair-and-a-beard-eamon-wood/1138409871
- A Backpack, a Chair and a Beard Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/waywardwheeler
- Nudge Assist Website: https://nudgeassist.com.au/
- Eamonn’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wayward_wheeler/
- Eamonn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eamon-wood/