Without Legs, Without Limitation: A Speedcast with Dave Stevens

Dave Stevens has defied expectations at every turn. Born without legs and immediately put up for adoption, the odds were stacked against him from day one. Yet during our chance meeting at the Chicago Abilities Expo, Dave shared how his adoptive parents instilled in him a powerful mindset: being without legs wasn't a disability—it was simply his normal.

Dave became a three-sport varsity athlete in high school, earning his positions by outperforming able-bodied teammates. His athletic journey continued through college football at Augsburg University and even included a stint in minor league baseball alongside Darryl Strawberry. Off the field, Dave built a 20-year career at ESPN, earning seven Emmy Awards and covering 30 Super Bowls along the way.

Our conversation highlights a critical reality about disability representation in media. As Dave poignantly states, "We're the biggest minority in the world and we have the smallest voice." Both of us share experiences of being underestimated, of having people judge the book by its cover rather than recognizing our capabilities. Dave describes us as "Chihuahuas who think they're St. Bernards"—refusing to be limited by society's narrow expectations of what disabled individuals can achieve.

This SpeedCast delivers a powerful message about redefining limitations, the importance of representation, and focusing on what truly matters in life. Join us for this raw, unfiltered conversation about taking the "dis" out of disability and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.