
D&I Spy · 2026-03-15 · 24 min
Maria Gallucci, author and proud CODA (Child of Deaf Adults). Growing up as one of six hearing children in a Deaf household, Maria learned ASL before English and even helped her parents buy a home at age 12. Her lived experience shaped a lifelong commitment to inclusive communication and challenging assumptions about accessibility. Maria introduces the concept of “Deaf Gain” - a reframing that shifts the narrative from “hearing loss” to the unique cultural and cognitive contributions of Deaf communities. RESOURCES: American Sign Language Basics: British Sign Language Basics: Producer Dan’s Top Tip: ‘There’s options you will love in your daily life, or to support your needs, that you never knew existed. Read the manual and/or find the accessibility options on your device settings! …No, do it now!” This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit dandispy.substack.com