John O’Leary welcomes Invisible Disabilities Association founder Wayne Connell onto the Live Inspired Podcast to share how we can better support, believe and value those living with invisible disabilities.
Wayne Connell is the founder of Invisible Disabilities Association, an organization he launched 30 years ago after watching his wife, Sherri, navigate debilitating illnesses others couldn’t see or understand. As her husband and caregiver for 32 years, Wayne has turned that deeply personal experience into a lifelong mission to help others living with invisible disabilities to feel seen, believed, and valued.
Today, Wayne shares what decades of caregiving have taught him about love, why believing someone can be one of the greatest gifts we offer, and how to better support those carrying struggles we cannot see. We also discuss the difference between fixing and simply being present, the assumptions we make about others, and the power of listening.
My friends, if you’re carrying an unseen burden or love someone who is, this conversation is for you. You’ll be reminded to slow down, listen well and recognize the value in every person you meet.
Subscribe & listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pandora, iHeartRadio or listen here:
Or click here to watch the full conversation on YouTube!
- After watching his wife Sherri live with debilitating illnesses others couldn’t see or understand, Wayne Connell founded the Invisible Disabilities Association to help millions of people feel seen, believed and valued.
- “A person’s situation cannot be judged by appearance.” Wayne reminds us that we rarely know what someone is carrying beneath the surface. Before making assumptions, choose curiosity, compassion and belief.
- “Sometimes what people say is worse than the illness.” Well-intentioned comments like “I’m tired too” or “but you look good” can minimize someone’s experience. Instead of trying to relate, fix or offer advice, Wayne encourages us to listen and validate.
- Let your presence be the best present. After 32 years of caring for Sherri, Wayne has learned that loving someone doesn’t always mean solving their problems. Sometimes the greatest gift is simply showing up, listening and reminding them they aren’t alone.
- “Their value is not tied to what they can do, but to who they are.” In a culture that often connects worth to productivity, Wayne challenges us to recognize the inherent value of every person, regardless of what they can accomplish.
- “Every person, regardless of their physical limitations, is a masterpiece created with purpose.” Illness or disability may be part of someone’s life, but it does not define the whole of who they are.
- For caregivers, Wayne offers an equally important reminder: they need to be seen, supported and valued, too. Caring for someone can be exhausting and isolating, making genuine connection all the more important.
- Learn more about Invisible Disabilities Association here.
Did you enjoy today’s episode?
You’ll love my conversation with Ben and Amy Wright, founders of Bitty & Beau’s Coffee. As we begin Down Syndrome Awareness Month, their story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we look beyond labels, recognize each person’s potential and create spaces where everyone knows they belong. Listen to Ben and Amy Wright on ep. 85 now.
***
About our sponsor: Keeley Companies wholeheartedly believes that if you get the people right -the results will follow. They set themselves apart with a forward-thinking culture that empowers their people and fosters loyal partnerships. Keeley Companies are a proud sponsor, partner, and super fan of the Live Inspired Podcast. Learn more about Keeley Companies.
WAYNE CONNELL'S LIVE INSPIRED 7
- Q. What is the best book you’ve ever read?
A. The Call by Os Guinness. - Q. What is a characteristic or trait that you possessed as a child that you wish you still exhibited today?
A. I love asking questions. - Q. Your house is on fire, all living things and people are out. You have the opportunity to run in and grab one item. What would it be?
A. I have all these antique radios. I'd grab one of those. - Q. You are sitting on a bench overlooking a gorgeous beach. You have the opportunity to have a long conversation with anyone living or dead. Who would it be?
A. My wife. - Q. What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
A. Listen. - Q. What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
A. It's not all black and white. - Q. It’s been said that all great people can have their lives summed up in one sentence. How do you want yours to read?
A. He believed, he loved, and he lived well.
