About the Show

Tune in each week as Tiffiny Carlson shares her angle on life with a disability. A well-published writer in the Disability Community and independent diva extraordinaire, Tiffiny hopes to break stereotypes, solidify stereotypes, and just flat-out "tell it like it is" - well, as she sees it. Sharing everything from dating tips, sexuality, current disability news, personal stories, interviews with big personalities, and beauty product recommendations - Tiffiny will diversify your mind. A lifestyle show for women, Tiffiny will speak from her perspective as a C-6 quad and help you realize very quickly there is no such thing as a "free ride".
Also, check out Tiffiny's interview with xAble.com - Click Here

About Our Sponsor

Be sure to learn about No Free Rides' Title Sponsor, GO! Mobility Solutions! For all of you wheelchair jocks, travelers, and wannabe travelers out there, you've gotta see the portable shower chairs from GO! Mobility Solutions! They work great at home but wait till ya see how fast and easy you can pack them up! Check 'em out at right now www.GoesAnywhere.com.

Ask Tiffiny a Question & Get on the Show!!!

Episodes

Episode #52 - The Price Is Right - June 19, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Alyson Roth, Ms. Wheelchair California and the first contestant in a wheelchair on the Price Is Right! Tiffiny and Alyson talk about the Ms. Wheelchair pageant and about being on the Price Is Right. Alyson also shares about her mission to build and provide wheelchairs in other countries through the Free Wheelchair Mission.
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Episode #51 - Love and Make-up Tips with Britany LaGasse - June 4, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Britany LaGasse, a young woman who has redefined life, found love, and begun a new career pursuit since her spinal cord injury. The two women discuss finding love when you're not looking and regaining control of the physical part of life, such as make-up. Tiffiny shares make-up tips and summer fashion finds to match the heat of the season!
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Episode #50 - Adoption and Mothering - May 21, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Caitlin, a social worker and paraplegic trying to adopt. Caitlin shares her challenges in facing adoption both internationally and domestically. Tiffiny and Caitlin talk about discrimination in other countries and the difficulties of being matched in domestic adoption. Tiffiny also talks about goth prom and online dating. Listen into the new No Free Rides Theme Song, written for the podcast by Professir X.
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Episode #49 - Inner Creativity and Sexuality - May 8, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Nancy Hall, an artist and mother with a creative spirit and strong sense of motherhood. Tiffiny and Nancy talk about everything from the injury, to life after her divorce, to independent living. Tiffiny shares about the upcoming Goth Prom and also about how to shop thrift stores for trendy clothes. Check out the new No Free Rides Theme Song, written for the podcast by Professir X.
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Episode #48 - Tell Your Story - April 23, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Lyena Strelkoff, an actor currently performing a one-woman play called Caterpillar Soup. Caterpillar Soup is a story of Lyena's two-year odyssey in search of wholeness after being paralyzed, and the ultimate triumph of her spirit. Tiffiny and Lyena talk about life after paralysis, finding true love, and being yourself. Tiffiny also shares the new No Free Rides Theme Song, written for the podcast by Professir X.
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Episode #47 - It Happened to Me - April 10, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Kelly Rouba, Ms. Wheelchair NJ 2007-2008, Author, and Arthritis Spokeswoman. Tiffiny and Kelly discuss Kelly's new book of "Juvenile Arthritis: The Ultimate Teen Guide", part of a series called "It Happened to Me". Their discussion includes ways to turn your situation and your personal goals into reality. For Kelly, learn about her transition to become an author and emergency management specialist. Tiffiny also shares some exciting make-up tips for Spring.
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Episode #46 - Relationships and the Art of Kissing - March 25, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Gary Karp, author of Life on Wheels and Disability and the Art of Kissing. This fascinating interview delves into the messy art of relationships, from finding Mr. Right to sharing physical chemistry. Tiffiny shares her own challenges with dating, and together, Gary and Tiffiny discuss starting new relationships, from online dating, to devotees, to just being yourself. Tiffiny also shares her favorite tips about the spring fashion, make-up, and enjoying the Spring season.
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Episode #45 - Designer Apparel for You - February 28, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Jordan Silver, founder and designer of Ag Apparel (pronounced A-G Apparel), an adaptive clothing line designed for women by women. As a winner of the White House Project (an O Magazine contest supported by Oprah), Jordan took a passion for clothing design and developed and elegant line of clothing that is truly functional and stylish. Tiffiny and Jordan discuss the clothing design and the exciting journey of Ag Apparel over the past year.
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Episode #44 - Unite 2 Fight Paralysis - February 13, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Susan Maus, a quad, a mom, married, works FT, and is heavily involved with Unite 2 Fight Paralysis. It's all about taking the experiences that change your life and making them impact your future. Susan and Tiffiny share their experiences as mentors for new injurees and about researching a cure for paralysis. Tiffiny also shares tips for make-up application and her half-birthday party.
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Episode #43 - Writing, Comedy, and Acting - January 31, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Drew Bates, a children's book author and voice over artist from South Carolina. Together, they discuss his previous life, his injury, writing, comedy, acting, Comic-Con, BSG, and why sci-fi may hold a special appeal to people with disabilities. Tiffiny also shares the success of her presidential inauguration party and the Geron human embryonic stem cell study that was approved on Jan. 22nd.
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Episode #42 - A Presidential Inauguration Ball - January 16, 2009
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Alex, Ms. Minnesota You Can Do It 2009. Alex is attending the Disability Power and Pride Inaugural Ball as part of the presidential inauguration weekend. Tiffiny and Alex discuss the You Can Do It Pageant and the Inauguration. Tiffiny also shares tips for throwing a Barack Obama inauguration party.
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Episode #41 - New Beginnings - December 30, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks surviving the holidays and new beginnings. Guest Amanda Moore shares her recent experience as a bride and about the future to come. This episode is filled with wedding details that can help you with event or wedding planning and also help you keep your eyes open for Mr. Right! Happy New Year from Xable.com.
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Episode #40 - Happy Holidays - December 21, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about holiday cheer, including some great holiday recipes, creative homemade gift ideas, and fun games to share with family of all ages. Plus Tiffiny gives some wise advice about ways to enjoy the family time and avoid conflict. Happy Holidays to all on behalf of Tiffiny and Xable.com!
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Episode #39 - Don't let a little mud, sand, or snow stop you! - December 4, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews John, founder of Renegade Wheelchairs and an avid outdoorsman from Maine. It's all about taking your skills to improve your life and the lives of others. After his injury, John took his building and carpentry skills to a new level, building a custom all-terrain wheelchair so that he could continue his favorite outdoor activities and provide other wheelchair users with the same opportunity. Tiffiny and John talk about independence and Tiffiny shares her Thanksgiving experience. Tiffiny closes the show with some great winter tips for staying warm.
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Episode #38 - All About Thanksgiving! - November 24, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks Turkey as we prepare for Thanksgiving 2008. On the show to share recipes and cooking tips is Julia, a Texas cook with some great recipe twists and tips for wheelchair accessible cooking on the big Turkey day. Tiffiny also speaks about her upcoming Thanksgiving plans as she plans to tackle her own Thanksgiving meal for the first time.
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Episode #37 - Finding Accessibility - November 13, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks with Kenny and Company about their blog, the Traveling Chair. Kenny and Company is a group of individuals led by a wheelchair-user, Kenny, who research accessibility and educate owners of inaccessible locations through site-visits and blog posts. It's all about finding and promoting accessible locations to make the world more sensitive, respectful, safer, and accessible to all. Tiffiny also shares her top three and bottom three accessible destinations.
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Episode #36 - Go For Your Dreams! - November 6, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks with her guest, Tiffiny G. about life with a spinal cord injury and her goal of becoming an actress in Hollywood. The two Tiffinys discuss their experiences in rehab going from a "cannot" environment to a "can too!" environment, and Tiffiny G. shares her plans to move from Florida to L.A. Tiffiny parlays this discussion into a recent blog about wheelchair stairclimbing. She also shares some recent scientific news that was featured on 60 Minutes about thought-driven computer systems.
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Episode #35 - Growing Up - October 24, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks with her guest, Carrie Salberg, about growing up with a disability and life as an independent adult. As school acquaintances, Carrie knew Tiffiny before her spinal cord injury. In this episode, Tiffiny discusses her view of people with disabilities as an able-bodied person and what changes in view have occurred since her disability. To end the session, Tiffiny also talks fall fashion.
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Episode #34 - A Disabled Mother, or I'm a Mom, and oh by the way, I'm also in a wheelchair! - October 17, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks with her guest, Whitney Sivill, a mother of two who uses a manual wheelchair. In this motherhood-based episode, Whitney shares her experience with pregnancy, taking care of infants, and developing systems to help her be an active, hands-on mother. To complete the episode, Tiffiny also talks about a study that was recently released showing monkeys can move paralyzed limbs by harnessing brain signals via an implantable chip and wiring.
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Episode #33 - Halloween Costumes - October 10, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about Halloween. The ultimate party-planner and creative costume designer, Tiffiny shares tips for the upcoming Halloween holiday. She even details how to create your own costumes and gives some great wheelchair-friendly ideas for designing your own outfit.
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Episode #32 - Go See a Concert! - October 3, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks with her guest, Allison Locey, about concert experiences and being a wheelchair-user, best and worst experiences, favorite venues, tips to share, road tripping to follow favorite bands, and lastly, volunteering at a music festival. It's all about making the best concert experience. Tiffiny also shares her opinions on the economy, vice-presidential debate, and grocery shopping on a budget.
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Episode #31 - World Stem Cell Summit 2008 - September 26, 2008
In this episode, Tiffinyshares her experience attending the World Stem Cell Summit in Madison, WI. The World Stem Cell Summit is the preeminent gathering for the global stem cell community, with the shared mission to advance stem cell research from the laboratory to lifesaving treatments. Learn about the latest research projects and areas for strength improvement for SCIs.
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Episode #30 - Adapted Yoga and the Abilities Expo - September 19, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about the benefits of Adapted Yoga. Since the class is only currently being taught at the Courage Center, in Minneapolis, Tiffiny brings practical information to her audience about the positions, breath, and benefit of yoga. Tiffiny also shares her exciting experience at the Abilities Expo, a popular exposition for and about people with disabilities that recently visited Minneapolis.
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Episode #29 - Interview with Carlana Stone - September 11, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny meets Carlana Stone. In this in-depth interview, Carlana talks about her experience on Oprah's Big Give, her life in Los Angeles, finding love, and her newest giving effort, the Courage Community.
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Episode #28 - Stylin' for Fall - September 5, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about styles and trends post-Labor Day. Learn about the best fashion tips to wear in a chair, and what's in for Fall/Winter 2008. Tiffiny also shares her exciting adventures in Minneapolis/St. Paul during the Republican National Convention.
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Episode #27 - Humor and Adaptive Surfing - August 29, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Ann Yoshida, an adaptive surfer from Hawaii who shares about her disability, sports, and school. Tiffiny also delves into comedians with disabilities.
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Episode #26 - Dating and Entertaining - August 22, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about social gatherings, from creating great parties to understanding first date etiquette. It's all about ways to entertain and be entertained. Tiffiny also delves into some current events, including the latest political scene in and around Minneapolis.
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Episode #25 - Paralympics and Pregnancy - August 15, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks with former Paralympian Muffy Davis about life, sports, and pregnancy. Tiffiny also delves into ways to deal with emergencies, from absentee PCAs to equipment malfunctions. Hear about Tiffiny's own experiences and solutions.
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Episode #24 - Tiffiny's Hodge-Podge of Current Events - August 5, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny shares a hodge-podge of interesting tidbits and activities, including planning her upcoming birthday party (and the challenges she is facing turning 29!!!) Also Tiffiny speaks about the recently elected Ms. Wheelchair America 2009 and the winner of BBC's Missing Model. Check out Tiffiny's vidcast or listen to the audio podcast.
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Episode #23 - Exercise: From Hockey Sticks to Walking Sticks - July 31, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Power Hockey player and former Ms. Wheelchair Minnesota Jen Onsum about the upcoming Power Hockey Cup and her experience as a female athlete. Tiffiny also shares relevent news about a new exoskeleton device that allows wheelchair users to walk through the combined use of crutches and a user-initiated robotic suit. Listen in as Jen shares ways to get active on the playing field and Tiffiny explains the invention of ReWalk.
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Episode #22 - Accessible Cooking: Tricks to Planning and Making Great Meals from your Chair - July 23, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews foodie Jennifer Longdon about accessible cooking, kitchen conversions, and the tricks to planning and making a great meal. Jennifer even gives some recipe tips that will make your mouth water. Then, Tiffiny delves into the exciting experience of yoga. After waiting for two years on the waitlist for a well-known Intro to Adapted Yoga class, she finally attended her first class at the Courage center and shares what adapted yoga is all about.
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Episode #21 - Finding and Keeping PCAs - July 16, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews author Katie Rodriguez Banister about her book, "The Personal Care Attendant Guide: The Art of Finding, Keeping, and Being One". Tiffiny also shares her opinion on an ongoing BBC television show about models with varying disabilities and gives updates about her own recent media experiences.
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Episode #20 - Get Over Your Dating Paranoia - July 9, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny speaks about the very important, and common, issue of paranoia in the dating/relationship aspect of having a disability, and how to deal with that. Tiffiny also briefly touches on being prepared for wheelchair repairs.
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Episode #19 - Surveying Issues in the Female Disability Community and Staying Fit - July 2, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about her recent interaction at the Courage Center, where prominent women in the community w/ disabilities recently joined together to talk about the most important issues facing girls and young women with disabilities. Tiffiny also delves into easy and inexpensive ways to work out and stay fit in a wheelchair, from wrist weights to Wii.
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Episode #18 - Disability in Theater and Film - June 27, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny interviews Michelle from Avon City, FL, an L1 paraplegic who is starting a theater in southwest Florida. Tiffiny also takes a look at the film, Body of War, which is a documentary based on an American veteran with a spinal cord injury from the war in Iraq.
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Episode #17 - Birth Control & Disability - June 20, 2008
In this episode, Tiffiny talks about birth control and surrounding issues for women with physical disabilities.
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Episode #16 - Can a Person with a Disability be Sexy? - June 13, 2008
In the latest No Free Rides episode, Tiffiny talks about Canadian healthcare and discusses the question, "Can a person with a disability be sexy?".
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Episode #15 - Tiff Rallies for Obama - June 7, 2008
In the latest No Free Rides episode, Tiffiny talks about dealing with crowds in a wheelchair and her experience at the Barack Obama rally in the Twin Cities.
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Episode #14 - Universal Design & Dating - May 29, 2008
The latest No Free Rides podcast is about Inclusive Design and Dating, and Tiffiny interviews Kate, a specialist in universal design, who has Cerebral Palsy and is a Lesbian.
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Episode #13 - Wii Ready for Summer - May 23, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny discusses summer beauty tips for women who use wheelchairs. Tiffiny also talks about her new toy, a Wii game console, and how accessible it is. She also talks about a live concert at the hospital for her friend, Allison.
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Episode #12 - Yeehah, Mantana! - May 16, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny interviews Kim Barreda, adaptive skiier, entreprenuer, and editor of the new magazine, Chloe. Tiffiny also talks about concert-going, gay marriage, and politics.
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Episode #11 - The Champion in You - May 12, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny interviews author and Paralympian athlete Judy Siegle, talks about online dating, and advises on a recent visit to the gynecologist.
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Episode #9 & 10 - Politics & Fashion Do Go Together! - April 28, 2008
In this week's "double" episode, Tiffiny chats with her long-time friend Kelly about everything from politics to fashion. Tiffiny also chimes in about Dating Services, such as eHarmony, and why they may not be designed for people with disabilities. Download episode 9 & 10 now...
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Episode #8 - Ability to be Intimate - April 19, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny shares an update in her personal life that is a BIG change for her. She also speaks with Veronica Gonnello about the Abilities Expo and their "Intimate Pavilion". Download episode 8 now...
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Episode #7 - A Convergence of Environmentalism and Geekiness! - April 10, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny shares a few new sides we might not have expected from this self-proclaimed "Girlie Girl". Tiff talks about some of her "Environmentalist" views and why driving fewer cars and eating less beef might be a good thing. She also exposes her GEEK side and talks about CONvergence 2008 - and more. Download episode 7 now...
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Episode #6 - Comedy & Implants - What More Could You Ask For?! - April 4, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny interviews NYC comedian, David Birnbaum, and finds out about why he ventured into the business of making people laugh. Then Tiff talks about a very important topic - her breasts - and things to think about when considering surgical implants as a quadriplegic - interesting stuff!. Download episode 6 now...
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Episode #5 - Don't Swear!!! - March 26, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny talks about her personal thoughts on becoming a mother - the challenges, the potential joys, and the overall reality of having her own "kid". She then talks about an interesting surgical procedure (Mitrofanoff) that can help some women in wheelchairs achieve more independence. Download episode 5 now...
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Episode #4 - From the Director's Chair - March 22, 2008
In this week's episode, Tiffiny debuts her new Intro music courtesy of Professir X, a talented musician and singer. Later on in the show, join Tiffiny for a truly insightful conversation with Meaghan Gallagher, an accomplished Actor and Director with a spinal cord injury. Download episode 4 now...
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Episode #3 - Sex & Tattoos Shouldn't Be Taboo! - March 13, 2008
Tiffiny talks about a warmer Minnesota, different ways to enjoy sex as a person with a disability, navigating crowds in her elevator-capable wheelchair, and yes - her tattoo... plus a whole lot more. Nothing is taboo in this episode, so be sure to check it out!
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Episode #2 - Beauty & Disability - March 7, 2008
Tiffiny explores the world of pageants for women with a disability and interviews Ms Wheelchair America 2008, Kristin McCosh.
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Episode #1 - Courage Center - February 28, 2008
Tiffiny introduces herself, chats with an old friend about their days at the Courage Center, gives her opinion on the recent wheelchair bombing in Iraq, and more.
Go to Episode 1