"The Next Generation Showcase," is a special bonus episode of True Tales by Disability Advocates, the podcast where Advocates harness the power of storytelling to bring community to their peers and hope to develop empathy and others.

The stories featured in this episode are written by fledgling storytellers from the Austin Independent School District Go-Project. The GO Project is a community-based transition program for students with disabilities who are 18-22 years of age.

If you are a regular listener, you'll notice a change from our regular story slash interview format. For the first time, this episode includes more than two stories, just stories, no interviews. You'll get to hear seven short stories with topics ranging from Self-acceptance to Crunchy Barbecue Crickets, as well as Family Belonging, Speaking up, and Passions for Zombie Movies and Exercise.

"Speaking Up" by Adrian

"The Start of Finding My Truth." By Maddison

"Travel With Family" by Miranda

"Zombie Movies and Me." By Julio

"Belonging" by Chloe

"Musical Baking" by Abigair

"To Eat, Jump Rope and Family Time." By Dezi

We had so much fun working with these young folks and we are honored to share with you the work of these talented storytellers. Special thanks to the Go-Project staff - Laney, Sam, Mike, and Lori and our volunteers, Emily and Sulith, we couldn’t have done this without y’all.

Welcome you to the Next Generation Showcase.

Music Credits

Scandinavianz Sunbathers – 7385

Feel the Sunshine - https://pixabay.com/users/oystudio-24430395/

Feeling Good – Pixabay.com

Stages of Grief – Kevin MacLeod-funny-

Jolly Boat – Pixabay.com

Halloween-spooky-horror-scary-creepy - https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

Zombie - 315844__gneube__zombie-snarl

Comedy - https://pixabay.com/users/soundgallerybydmitrytaras-11640913/

Cumbia Mexican Banda - https://pixabay.com/users/juliush-3921568/

Summer Walkways - Pixabay.com

Click here to listen with the full transcript.

For more details about our programs go to Art Spark Texas, True Tales Podcast Page.

Segments of this podcast were read by an automated voice. Inconsistencies in pronunciation and tone may occur.