Episode 101: Let’s Celebrate Our Differences! A Discussion on Gender Diversity with Craig Promranz

In this podcast episode, we cover a topic that’s a little “different” from what we usually discuss.

Annette invites award-winning male vocalist and author of the children’s book “Made by Raffi,” Craig Pomranz, to share his story and explain why it’s important to not only accept each others’ differences, but to celebrate them. 

Craig’s book tells the story of a shy little boy named Raffi who is often left out and bullied for being seen as “girly” due to his love of knitting. It’s not until Raffi’s knitted creation saves the day at his school’s pageant that people learn to appreciate his craft and all of the differences that make him, well, him. 

This message of celebration is important for all of us, but it holds a significant impact for the disability community. A recent study from Cambridge University examined over 641,000 people and confirmed an overlap between gender diversity and autism. According to the data, individuals with autism are more likely to be gender diverse, and gender diverse people are more likely to have traits of autism than cisgender individuals.

In this day and age, it is more important than ever to celebrate individuality and allow people to be who they are. 

This episode also features Craig’s song, “Different,” which lyrically explores the beauty of being unique from each other. This work is as beautiful in music as it is in message. 

Annette Hines has been practicing in the areas of Special Needs, Elder Law, and Estate Planning for more than 20 years. Ms. Hines brings personal experience with special needs to her practice and podcasts as the mother of two daughters, one of whom passed away from Mitochondrial disease in November 2013. This deep, personal understanding of special needs fuels her passion for quality special needs planning and drives her dedication to help others within the special needs community