Be Inspired, Dream Big with John Tucker and Rachel Osterbach

by Chantai Snellgrove Print This Article

#23: Be Inspired, Dream Big with John Tucker and Rachel Osterbach

[Click to Listen to Podcast]

In today’s podcast, visit with lead cast members John Tucker and Rachel Osterbach from the EMMY winning A&E Television Series “Born This Way”!!!

In case you’re not familiar with the show, “Born This Way” follows a group of seven young adults born with Down syndrome. Together, they pursue their passions, their lifelong dreams, explore friendships, romantic relationships and work, all while defying society’s expectations.

Their willingness and courage to openly share their lives, through a lens that is not often shown on television, is admirable and we learn they have high hopes just like anyone else.

The series also gives voice to the parents by allowing them to talk about the joy their son or daughter brings to their family, and the challenges they face in helping them live as independently as possible.

“Born This Way” is in its 4th season.

John and Rachel actually made EMMY history last year by being the first individuals with Down syndrome to present an award at the televised Emmys.

And, we’re making a little history of our own here at Parenting Special Needs Magazine by featuring these Celebrities on our Cover!!!

I had the pleasure of speaking with John and Rachel to find out how they feel about being a “TV celebrity”, and to find out some of their personal aspirations and how they’re working to achieve them.

I also asked them for their thoughts on being a Role Models and the message they want others to hear.

Sean McElwee, unfortunately, had a family emergency and was unable to be interviewed live, but he also shared with us in our article: “Born this Way”, Paving the way.

Below, is a video featuring Sean.

I want to share a personal experience from watching the show…one that caught me off-guard.

“Born This Way” is definitely having an impact and I witnessed, first hand, the impact these ROLE MODELS are having on others.

I was watching a few of the shows to prepare some interview questions and I asked my daughter, Kailee, to watch a couple of episodes with me.

When the show was over, Kailee looked at me (with all seriousness) and said, “You know, Mom, I think I could live in an apartment with my friends!!!”

Inside, my heart beamed as I realized what had just happened. She was inspired. And, I said, “Yes, you could! It is definitely something to work towards.”

What also struck a chord in me is that the parents featured in the show are role models/mentors for us (the parents) as well. We can learn from them as they help pave the way and help their children to pursue their dreams and live as independently as possible.

Listen to the podcast, be inspired, and hear for yourself their enthusiasm and excitement.

Takeaways to keep the top of mind:

John said:

Don’t give up on those dreams because

you don’t know when they will come.

Rachel said:

Anybody can reach their goals and their Dreams.

All you have to do is just be yourself and follow your heart.

Links mentioned in this episode:

Born This Way: John Tucker’s “Shake Your Booty” Music Video

Born This Way A&E TV Shows

“Born The Way” is paving the way!

This post contains affiliate links, which means Parenting Special Needs LLC, could receive a commission if you purchase using this link. We appreciate your support.

https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/born-this-way-is-paving-the-way/

https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/celebrities-with-disabilities-that-turned-their-dreams-into-attainable-goals/

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Be Inspired, Dream Big with John Tucker and Rachel Osterbach

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