From Disability Benefits to Building a National Business

Michele A. Leahy knows firsthand how complicated life with a disability can be. Born with spina bifida, navigating benefits herself, and later losing her leg, she turns lived experience into a mission to help others build greater independence. After returning to disability benefits and spending a year and a half out of work, a simple question pushes her toward entrepreneurship. What begins as an experiment becomes Leahy Life Plan, serving families across 16 states. In this episode, Michele challenges the idea that government benefits are a handout, exposes why leaving someone money does not automatically create a meaningful life, and explains how disability life planning, SSI/SSDI, employment support, and community services can help families create more secure futures. Key Takeaways • Why disability benefits can be a “hand up” toward independence rather than a barrier to working • How Michele turns her own experience navigating disability and government benefits into a business • Why money alone cannot guarantee a fulfilling, independent life for an adult with disabilities • How SSI/SSDI, job coaching, healthcare, and community services can work together to support independence • Why families need to plan beyond finances when preparing for an adult child’s long-term future Notable Quotes • “They think it’s a hand out and it’s really a hand up.” • “It’s providing a house, but it’s not providing a life.” • “Why don’t you start your own business?” • “Well, there’s something here.” • “I’m just excited to just serve more people.”