NDEAM 2024: Chris Ruden, Powerlifting Champion and Motivational Speaker

Welcome, Chris Ruden! In episode 67 of Pushing Forward with Alycia / A Disability Podcast, Alycia Anderson sits down with Chris Ruden, an elite powerlifter/weightlifter, motivational speaker, and disability advocate. Born with a congenital limb difference and living with Type 1 diabetes, Chris shares his journey of overcoming adversity to become a seven-time world-record-holding powerlifter and a passionate advocate for disability rights. From his experience on "The Titan Games" with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to his relentless advocacy for body positivity and accessibility, Chris offers invaluable insights into resilience and empowerment. Dismantling stereotypes Throughout the conversation, Chris discusses his path to self-acceptance and how he uses his platform to dismantle ableist stereotypes and inspire others with disabilities. He opens up about his struggles, triumphs, and the tools he’s used to thrive in a world often not built for people with disabilities. Chris’s story is not only about physical strength but also about the mental and emotional resilience required to advocate for yourself and others. Claiming our space Join Alycia and Chris as they dive into the significance of representation, visibility, and how people with disabilities can claim their space in fitness, sports, and the world at large. This episode is a testament to the power of turning perceived weaknesses into strengths and pushing forward, no matter the barriers. Key Moments: 💪 Chris’s early challenges with his limb difference and Type 1 diabetes — [00:03:05] 🏋️‍♂️ Breaking powerlifting world records and overcoming ableism in sports — [00:10:25] 📺 Appearing on “The Titan Games” with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson — [00:20:15] 🎙️ How Chris became a motivational speaker and advocate for body positivity — [00:28:45] 🧗 Overcoming mental health struggles and the importance of mindset — [00:35:50] Quote: "You can't always control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond to it. Disability is not a limitation—it's an opportunity to prove that anything is possible." — Chris Ruden Connect with Chris: Website | Instagram | YouTube Connect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices