Note: To watch the YouTube video with Open captions, please visit: https://youtu.be/CwEtOcqOlQQ

In this honest, reflective episode, Chandy and Emma explore what happens when caring, advocating, and showing up for others starts to take its toll. From personal grief and burnout to the constant pressure on disabled and neurodivergent people to educate the world, they unpack the emotional weight of advocacy and why it’s okay to rest.

They talk about self-advocacy, emotional privilege, and how “empathy fatigue” isn’t a personal flaw, it’s often a systemic issue born from a world that still resists change. Expect candid conversation, real-life examples, laughter in the middle of heavy topics, and a reminder that taking a break doesn’t make you any less committed to the cause.

Themes: Disability justice · burnout · self-advocacy · mental health · grief · emotional labour

Trigger note: Contains discussion of bereavement, mental health, and ableism.

If anything discussed in this episode brings up difficult emotions, please know you’re not alone. Support is available:

🇬🇧 UK:

• Mind – mental health support and information: mind.org.uk / 0300 123 3393

• Samaritans – free 24/7 helpline if you’re struggling: 116 123

• Shout – text support in a crisis: Text SHOUT to 85258

• Scope – disability advice and advocacy: scope.org.uk

🇺🇸 USA:

• 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline – call or text 988 (24/7, free, confidential)

• NAMI Helpline – mental health support and education: 1-800-950-6264 / nami.org/help

• Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF) – legal advocacy and resources: dredf.org