Best SMA News Today Podcasts (2025)

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#150: Jenna and Tanya Vega share their love story 28:43

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22d ago28:43

28:43

In episode 150, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Jenna and Tanya Vega from Palm Springs, California. Jenna and Tanya discuss their seven years together, navigating daily life with SMA, and their wedding last year. They also share tips and advice for other couples in the SMA community.By SMA News Today

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#149: Jessica Keogh, Ed. D., Educator and Life Coach With SMA 41:16

2M ago41:16

41:16

In episode 149, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Dr. Jessica Keogh from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. An educator, disability advocate, and certified life coach, she discusses growing up with SMA, living independently, navigating relationships, and becoming an advocate.Jessica’s website: https://www.faithabovemyability.org/=============================…

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#148: Ashley Fox and Madeline Engel discuss friendship and caregiving 44:52

3M ago44:52

44:52

In episode 148, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Ashley Fox and Madeline Engel from California. Ashley has SMA, and Madeline became her best friend and caregiver when they were in college. They discuss the nuances of friendship and caregiving, plus touch on confronting internalized ableism and navigating graduate school and careers.==================…

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#147: Brandi Lewis, rare disease advocate and speaker 37:02

5M ago37:02

37:02

In episode 147, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Brandi Lewis from Birmingham, Alabama. A blood disorder awareness educator, TEDx speaker, writer, and nonprofit founder, Brandi is passionate about helping others diagnosed with chronic illnesses. She herself has been diagnosed with aplastic anemia and PNH, the symptoms of which began in 2009. Her nonp…

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#146: TJ Wall, graduate student with SMA 31:44

6M ago31:44

31:44

In episode 146, host Kevin Schaefer talks with TJ Wall from Texarkana, Texas. TJ is working on his master’s in education at Texas A&M University, and he hopes to become a high school football coach. He talks about growing up with SMA, his love of sports, and his future aspirations.================================To take part in our ongoing discussi…

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#145: Carrie Manriquez, Mother of adult son with SMA 59:36

8M ago59:36

59:36

In episode 145, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Carrie Manriquez from Sacramento, CA. Carrie is an elementary school principal, and her 24-year-old son Ryan has SMA type 2. She talks about her experiences as a parent and caregiver, connecting with the SMA community, and helping Ryan transition to adulthood.================================To take par…

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Veteran jobs—life after military service 44:29

9M ago44:29

44:29

Mark Hendry MBE is a former British Army Officer who was given his title by Queen Elizabeth II after an heroic rescue effort in Nepal in 2015. In this episode of Life at Sage, he talks about this experience, as well as his decision to leave the Army after 23 years of service. He details the fears, the challenges of transition, and the rewards of fi…

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Finding my feet—living and working with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) 57:26

9M ago57:26

57:26

Kerry Walsh is a woman determined not to be defined by her rare disease, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), which she has had since birth and which currently has no cure. Rather, Kerry has boldly rewritten her own history as a “rare disease warrior” and, in this episode of Life at Sage, discusses the sense of purpose and career success (via the Pathway…

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Pregnant at university—how I overcame my own early career challenge 46:50

9M ago46:50

46:50

In the very first episode of the Life at Sage podcast, we speak to Vicky Rowland, who recruits Graduates, Interns, and Apprentices at Sage. Vicky details how her own early career experience almost came to a halt after becoming pregnant a few short weeks into her university education. But that’s just the beginning of the story. We hear how she trium…

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#144: Doug McCullough, Advocate and Author With SMA 53:49

9M ago53:49

53:49

In episode 144, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Doug McCullough from central New Jersey. The author of “A Billion People in the Shadows,” a new book about understanding disability, Doug previously worked at Johnson & Johnson Pharmaceuticals and has a background in public speaking. He talks about growing up with SMA type 3, navigating employment with…

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#143: Cory Lee, Travel Blogger and Influencer With SMA 46:12

11M ago46:12

46:12

In episode 143, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Cory Lee from Lafayette, Georgia. A renowned expert on disabled traveling, he has visited all seven continents from his wheelchair. He runs the Curb Free With Cory Lee blog and takes part in speaking engagements around the world. Join the two as they discuss growing up with SMA, Cory’s travel origins, …

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#142: Savannah and Will Huff, Interabled Couple 50:02

12M ago50:02

50:02

In episode 142, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Savannah and Will Huff from Thomasville, Georgia. Savannah, who has SMA type 3, met Will in 2018. Listen in as they discuss their marriage, careers, and the intersection of married life and caregiving.================================To take part in our ongoing discussions regarding SMA, please visit ht…

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#141: Quinn Bucher, Theater Student With SMA 50:55

1y ago50:55

50:55

In episode 141, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Quinn Bucher (he/they) from Athens, Ohio. A student at Earlham College studying theater, he talks about growing up in an arts-oriented household, making theater inclusive for disabled students, and the intersectionality of being trans and having SMA.================================To take part in our o…

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#140: Lucy Trevino, Academic and Advocate 39:20

1y ago39:20

39:20

Note: This podcast includes thoughts about suicide. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline in the U.S. (988, or 988lifeline.org, available 24/7), Samaritans in the U.K (samaritans.org), or Samaritans of Singapore in Singapore (sos.org.sg).In episode 140, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Lucy Tre…

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#139: Dianna Warren, Ms. Wheelchair USA Ambassador 38:27

1y ago38:27

38:27

In episode 139, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Dianna Warren from Canton, Ohio. Dianna is an ambassador for Ms. Wheelchair USA, and for 32 years she ran a disability bowling league. She discusses these experiences, living with SMA Type 3, and her marriage of 44 years.================================To take part in our ongoing discussions regarding …

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#138: Nolan and Blake Shofner, Brother Entrepreneurs 38:53

1+ y ago38:53

38:53

In episode 138, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Nolan, who lives with SMA, and Blake Shofner from Princeton, Illinois. The brothers discuss their dynamic as siblings and business partners, as they are the founders of Mullet Bros Co. They also discuss the importance of humor in their lives and how Nolan’s SMA has impacted them.=======================…

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#137: Jared Wayland: Graphic Designer and Music Connoisseur 47:48

1+ y ago47:48

47:48

In episode 137, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Jared Wayland from Ontario. Jared discusses growing up with SMA type 3 and becoming a husband and father. He also talks about his passion for music and graphic design and shares advice about building confidence with SMA.================================To take part in our ongoing discussions regarding S…

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#136: Shaniqua Granby Discusses Identity and Community 37:24

1+ y ago37:24

37:24

In episode 136, host Kevin Schaefer talks with returning guest Shaniqua Granby as she shares life updates and discusses how she navigates struggles and embraces community.================================To take part in our ongoing discussions regarding SMA, please visit http://www.smanewstoday.com/forums…

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#135: Ryan Kinnear, Fisherman and Hunter With SMA 35:00

1+ y ago35:00

35:00

In episode 135, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Ryan Kinnear from Glendale, Arizona. An avid fisherman and outdoor enthusiast, he uses assistive technology to pursue his passions. Ryan talks about using this technology, growing up with SMA, and managing daily life.================================To take part in our ongoing discussions regarding SMA,…

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#134: Dr. Edward Smith, Neurologist and SMA Specialist 59:24

1+ y ago59:24

59:24

In episode 134, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Dr. Edward Smith from Hillsborough, North Carolina. Dr. Smith spent the majority of his career as a clinical neurologist, and Kevin was one of his longtime patients. They talk about the state of SMA research and the work Dr. Smith is doing now. SMA News Today contributor Michael Morale also joins to ta…

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#133: Rebecca Mulhall, Parent of Twins With SMA 32:20

1+ y ago32:20

32:20

In episode 133, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Rebecca Mulhall from Cleveland, Ohio. Rebecca has three kids, and her youngest two are twins with SMA. Her son with SMA also has Down syndrome. Rebecca talks about the intersection of these disabilities, her family’s daily life, and her advice for other parents in the SMA community.====================…

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#132: Collin Pollock, Business Owner With SMA 29:42

2y ago29:42

29:42

In episode 132, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Collin Pollock from Garden Grove, California. Collin and his wife, Kyla, run a barbeque sauce business called WheelyQ. He discusses becoming a business owner, growing up with SMA, and being a husband and father.================================Collin’s website: https://wheelyq.com/======================…

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#131: Candis Welch, Disability Advocate and Ms. Wheelchair California 49:27

2y ago49:27

49:27

In episode 131, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Candis Welch from Los Angeles, California. A disability advocate, DEI practitioner, and consultant, Candis won the 2023 Ms. Wheelchair California competition. She talks about growing up with SMA, the importance of representation, and how she’s cultivated an independent life.============================…

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#130: Andrew Cherico, College Student With SMA 39:10

2y ago39:10

39:10

In episode 130, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Andrew Cherico from Orlando, Florida. Andrew is a sophomore at the University of Central Florida and is studying sports journalism. He talks about growing up with SMA, shifting his mindset as a teenager, and connecting with others in the SMA community.================================To take part in our…

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#129: Rylie Erbacher, Rare Artist With SMA 28:43

2y ago28:43

28:43

In episode 129, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Rylie Erbacher and her mom, Stephanie, from Iowa. Rylie has SMA, and she was recently recognized as one of 10 artists from around the country honored in Washington, D.C., for her accomplishments as a Rare Artist, an artist living with a rare disease. She and Stephanie discuss this journey, as well as w…

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#128: Jenna Coburn, Social Media Manager, LGBTQIA+ and Disability Advocate 41:22

2y ago41:22

41:22

In episode 128, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Jenna Coburn from Palm Springs, California. Jenna is a social media and marketing manager for Access Medical, and she has SMA. She talks about her family life, how she started her career as a teenager, her relationship with her girlfriend, and the intersectionality of her LGBTQIA+ and disability identi…

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#127: Kevan Chandler, author, traveler, and nonprofit founder 51:44

2y ago51:44

51:44

In episode 127, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Kevan Chandler, founder of the nonprofit organization We Carry Kevan. In 2016, Kevan used an adaptive backpack so that his friends could carry him on a trip across Europe. This adventure formed the basis of his nonprofit. Kevan is now an author, speaker, and world traveler. He has SMA type 2, and he cu…

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#126: Janelle Fiesta and Antoine Vuong, interabled couple 39:31

2+ y ago39:31

39:31

In episode 126, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Janelle Fiesta and Antoine Vuong from Honolulu, Hawaii. They are an interabled couple who met when they were both in high school. Janelle shares her experiences living with SMA and Antoine talks about being her partner. They also discuss going to the 2022 Cure SMA conference in Anaheim, California. ===…

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#125: Brooklyn Nichols, child author with SMA, and her mother, Keanna 53:03

2+ y ago53:03

53:03

In episode 125, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Brooklyn and Keanna Nichols from Athens, Alabama. Brooklyn is a middle schooler with SMA who co-authored a children’s book called “A Do Nothing Day” with her mom’s cousin. She and her mom talk about inclusivity, living with SMA, and the origins of the book. ================================To order a co…

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#124: A conversation with an interabled couple, Steve and Brittany Bingman 46:34

2+ y ago46:34

46:34

In episode 124, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Steve and Brittany Bingman from Mount Juliet, Tennessee. Steve is an administrative officer at the U.S. department of veteran affairs, and he lives with SMA. Brittany is Steve’s wife, and she is a licensed social worker. They discuss their marriage and family, their daily lives, and getting involved wi…

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#123: A Conversation With LaMondre Pough and Gabrielle Runyon, Two Black Disability Advocates 52:08

2+ y ago52:08

52:08

In episode 123, host Kevin Schaefer talks with returning guests LaMondre Pough and Gabrielle Runyon, two Black Disabled advocates. In recognition of Black History Month, LaMondre and Gabrielle share their experiences growing up with SMA, the intersectionality of their identities, and the work they’re doing now.================================To lea…

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#122: A Conversation With Rare Disease Advocates 58:02

2+ y ago58:02

58:02

In episode 122, host Kevin Schaefer talks with three of his coworkers from BioNews Inc., the parent company of SMA News Today. Brittany Foster is BioNews’ HR Coordinator, and she lives with pulmonary hypertension. Brad Dell is the Director of Community Content, and he lives with cystic fibrosis. Matt Lafleur is the Culture Coordinator, and he lives…

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#121: Pidgie, Singer and Songwriter With SMA 38:36

2+ y ago38:36

38:36

In episode 121, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Patricia Panzarino, who goes by her musician name, Pidgie. Pidgie is a singer and songwriter from Cape Cod, Massachusetts, and she has SMA Type 2. She discusses growing up in a pre-ADA era, building her music career, and starting Evrysdi. ================================To learn more about Evrysdi, ple…

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#120: Dom Evans, Activist and Filmmaker 50:22

2+ y ago50:22

50:22

In episode 120, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Dom Evans (he/they), LGBTQ and disability activist and filmmaker. Dom discusses his background, growing up with SMA, and how he became an activist. He also talks about his longtime partner and their relationship.Note: This podcast includes thoughts about suicide. If you are struggling with thoughts of …

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#119: Chaz Hayden Discusses His Debut Novel 41:44

2+ y ago41:44

41:44

In episode 119, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Chaz Hayden, a young adult author with SMA. Chaz’s debut novel, The First Thing About You, tells the story of a 15-year-old boy with SMA named Harris who wants to reinvent himself. Kevin and Chaz discuss themes in the book, the personal experiences that influenced the story, and Chaz’s advice for other…

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#117: Delphine Andrews and Kevin Davis, Interabled Couple 53:20

2+ y ago53:20

53:20

In episode 117, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Delphine Andrews and Kevin Davis from North Carolina. Delphine has SMA and she began dating Kevin in early 2020. They discuss their careers, daily lives, and the nuances of their relationship.================================To learn more about Evrysdi, please visit http://www.ApprovedForSMA.com =======…

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#118: Aging and SMA 52:12

2+ y ago52:12

52:12

In episode 118, host Kevin Schaefer talks with work colleagues Michael Morale and DeAnn Runge about aging and SMA. They start by discussing Scholar Rock’s experimental therapy, Apitegromab, and go over recent updates surrounding its clinical trial. Then they talk about how SMA affects the way people think about getting older. Michael, DeAnn, and Ke…

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#116: Shaniqua Granby, Law Professional With SMA 37:12

3y ago37:12

37:12

In episode 116, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Shaniqua Granby from Virginia Beach, Virginia. Shaniqua is an equal employment opportunity specialist, and she has SMA Type 3. She discusses going to law school, her faith and how it relates to her disability, and the advice she has for others with SMA.================================To learn more abou…

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#115: Jose Flores, Author and Motivational Speaker 50:44

3y ago50:44

50:44

In episode 115, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Jose Flores from Miami, Florida. Jose is a bestselling author and motivational speaker who lives with SMA Type 3. He discusses his journey toward entrepreneurship, his marriage and family life, and becoming connected to the SMA community. ================================Jose’s website: https://www.jose…

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#114: Daniele Johnson, SMA Mom and Advocate 30:01

3y ago30:01

30:01

In episode 114, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Daniele Johnson from Evansville, Indiana. Daniele and her husband’s youngest son, Anthony, has SMA type 0. She talks about her son’s diagnosis, pursuing treatment, and how she and her family have adapted to life with SMA. ================================To learn more about Evrysdi, please visit http://…

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#113: Dustin Swafford, Power Soccer Coach and Player 35:12

3y ago35:12

35:12

In episode 113, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Dustin Swafford from Georgia. Dustin has been playing and coaching a power soccer team for years, and his team recently won the national championship. He discusses his love of sports, having his brother as his primary caregiver, and starting his own financial business.================================To…

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#112: Lexi Villa, Social Media Influencer and Disability Advocate 56:40

3y ago56:40

56:40

In episode 112, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Lexi Villa from Torrance, California. Lexi works in retail and shares her life with SMA on social media. She discusses moving away from home at a young age, becoming connected with the SMA community, and falling in love with her best friend from childhood. ================================To learn more …

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#111: Steven Verdile, Graphic Designer and Disabled Creative 28:20

3y ago28:20

28:20

In episode 111, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Steven Verdile, a graphic designer and media creator from New York City. Steven is also the founder and editor-in-chief of The Squeaky Wheel, an online disability satire publication. He discusses living with SMA, working for NBC, and disability representation in media. ================================S…

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#110: Author Ben Mattlin Discusses Disability Pride Month 31:26

3y ago31:26

31:26

In episode 110, host Kevin Schaefer welcomes back to the podcast Ben Mattlin, an author and disability rights advocate. His upcoming book is called “Disability Pride: Dispatches from a Post-ADA World,” and is set to release on November 15, 2022. Ben discusses the evolution of this book, and what Disability Pride means to him. ======================…

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#109: 2022 Cure SMA Conference Recap 39:56

3y ago39:56

39:56

In episode 109, host Kevin Schaefer chats to several attendees from this year’s Cure SMA conference in Anaheim, California. Ashley Fox, Ryan Manriquez, and Kyle Harris discuss reuniting after such a long time, connecting with other adults with SMA, and share their highlights from the conference. ================================To learn more about E…

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#108: A Mother Discusses the Approval of Evrysdi for Infants With SMA 24:42

3y ago24:42

24:42

In episode 108, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Logan Nantz from southern Indiana. Logan’s daughter Hayden is two years old and has SMA. They discuss Logan family’s story, as well as the news that Genentech recently approved Evrysdi for infants under the age of two months. ================================Evrysdi story: https://smanewstoday.com/news-…

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#107: A Conversation About Mental Health With LGBTQ+ and Disability Advocates 47:13

3y ago47:13

47:13

In episode 107, host Kevin Schaefer talks about mental health with LGBTQ+ and disability advocates. Panelists include Ali Ramos (she/her), licensed social worker; Sherry Toh (she/they), columnist for SMA News Today; and Hugo Trevino (he/him), who works in academia. They all share their experiences managing their own mental health and offer advice f…

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#106: A Conversation About Women’s Mental Health With Rare Disease and Disability Advocates 33:14

3y ago33:14

33:14

In episode 106, host Kevin Schaefer talks with a group of rare disease and disability advocates about women’s mental health. Panelists include Charlene Marshall, licensed mental health professional, and columnist for Pulmonary Fibrosis News; Brianna Albers, columnist for SMA News Today; Gabrielle Runyon, a college student with SMA at the University…

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#105: A Conversation About Men’s Mental Health With Rare Disease and Disability Advocates 55:02

3y ago55:02

55:02

In episode 105, host Kevin Schaefer talks with rare disease and disability advocates about men’s mental health. Panelists include Paris Dancy, licensed mental health professional, and columnist for Cushing’s Disease News; Matt Lafleur, columnist for Friedreich’s Ataxia News; Michael Morale, multimedia specialist for SMA News Today; and Ty Dykema, a…

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#104: Interview With Ben Lou, Mathematics Student With SMA 33:04

3+ y ago33:04

33:04

In episode 104, host Kevin Schaefer talks with Ben Lou from San Diego, California. Ben is a student at MIT, planning to double major in math and physics. He discusses his lifelong love for learning, growing up with SMA, and the importance of disability representation in STEM education. ================================Article about Ben: https://sman…