Aron O’Dowd speaks with Wade Simmons about disability, filmmaking, storytelling, faith and the importance of encouraging others through creative work.

Wade Simmons on Disability, Filmmaking and Faith

In this episode of The Aron O’Dowd Show, Aron speaks with Wade Simmons about disability, filmmaking, storytelling, faith and the creative drive to keep moving forward.

Wade is a filmmaker from Chicago whose story brings together creativity, family influence and personal resilience. His conversation with Aron explores how he approaches documentary work, how he thinks about telling other people’s stories and how faith helps him navigate obstacles.

Finding a style through storytelling

The interview opens with Aron asking Wade about documentary style and whether there is a particular person or approach he likes to follow. Wade explains that he prefers to go with the flow.

That answer says a lot about his creative approach. For Wade, filmmaking is not about forcing every story into a rigid structure. It is about listening, observing and allowing the story to reveal itself.

He also talks about keeping things simple. In creative work, simplicity can be powerful. It helps the audience connect with the person at the centre of the story instead of getting lost in unnecessary complication.

Learning through family and early experience

Wade reflects on the people and experiences that helped shape his path. He talks about family influence, including the impact of his grandfather, and how those relationships helped him build confidence and direction.

The episode also touches on early opportunities to learn practical skills, including filming, directing and working with people. These experiences helped Wade understand that creativity is both a skill and a calling.

Disability, faith and overcoming obstacles

A central part of Wade’s story is his determination to rise above obstacles. He speaks about disability, but not as the whole of his identity. Instead, it is part of a wider story about faith, growth and purpose.

Wade’s faith is important to the way he thinks about life. It helps him keep perspective, stay encouraged and continue creating even when things are difficult.

This is one of the themes that fits strongly with The Aron O’Dowd Show. Wade’s story is not about pretending challenges do not exist. It is about choosing to keep going and finding meaning in the process.

Encouraging rather than criticising

One of the most positive parts of the conversation is Wade’s attitude towards other creators. He talks about choosing encouragement over criticism. If he sees work he likes, he wants to tell the person to keep going.

That mindset matters. Creative work can be vulnerable, especially for people who are already navigating disability, doubt or difficult life circumstances. Encouragement can give someone the confidence to continue.

Wade’s message is a reminder that support does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it is enough to recognise someone’s effort and tell them that their work matters.

Why this conversation matters

Wade Simmons’ interview is about filmmaking, but it is also about purpose. It shows how creativity can become a way to process life, encourage others and express faith.

Aron’s conversation with Wade will speak to anyone who is trying to build something creative while also dealing with personal challenges. The message is simple, keep learning, keep encouraging and keep telling stories that matter.

Watch the interview

Watch the full conversation with Wade Simmons on YouTube: