When it comes to providing information to the public or introducing a brand, a radio interview is one of the best mediums to use. That is why Citi of Books Publishing cooperated with People of Distinction CBS Radio’s host, Benji Cole, for the inspiring and amazing stories behind every author’s work to be heard.
People of Distinction is a platform for professional and even enthusiast authors to engage in a genuine discussion and learn on inspirations, themes, and narratives from blossoming authors.
This program is hosted by Benji Cole, son of Al Cole, and is the ideal platform for authors who want to widen their readership. Benji Cole is an awesome Los Angeles actor and filmmaker who conducts interviews with guest authors. Take part in the CBS Radio Interview and become a notable guest on one of the most renowned radio shows in the country.
The author of the book “Hearts of Gold: Broken Bodies, Immeasurable Blessings,” Kathy Pounds Graham, was interviewed by Benji Cole of CBS Radio. They talked about the in-depth nature of the book’s theme and inspiration during the interview. This book isn’t just a story about disability; it’s a testament to the boundless strength of the human spirit, the immeasurable power of a mother’s love, and the unwavering faith in God that carried a family through decades of challenges, victories, and advocacy.
This extensively broadcast talk show has already conducted interviews with 2,000 of the most remarkable people in America over the past few years, including NBC producer Ken Corday and former CBS Morning News anchor Bill Kurtis. Authors who land a spot on this radio interview program will undoubtedly reach millions of listeners who could end up being book customers courtesy of CBS’ prominence and extensive national reach.
Kathy Pounds Graham is a pioneer in the fight for Equality in the Field of Disabilities. She had a vision that her sons & others would have the same opportunities in life their able-bodied peers enjoyed.” Because of her vision, dedication, determination and faith in God, many opportunities for people with disabilities were created. Many of these opportunities she and her sons planted seeds for have come to fruition and allow people to live, work, recreate and participate in life next to their peers.
Although her sons are no longer with us Kathy continues the legacy she and her sons began in 1974. She continues to educate the public about the world of disabilities Through. The Eyes of she and her sons as they made history. Submitted by Vicki Killingsworth, Master’s degree in education, fellow advocate and coworker.
“Hearts of Gold: Broken Bodies, Immeasurable Blessings” by Kathy Pounds Graham is a profoundly moving and inspiring memoir that chronicles the extraordinary lives of her two sons, Shawn and Jason Odle, both born with Pelizaeus-Merzbacher Disease (PMD)—a rare and debilitating neurological disorder.
The story begins in the rural heartland of Mississippi, where Kathy’s simple yet faith-rooted life takes an unexpected turn with the births of her two sons. Initially, both Shawn and Jason appeared healthy, but developmental delays soon became apparent. What followed was a relentless pursuit of answers, which took years to culminate in a definitive diagnosis of PMD, a rare genetic disorder affecting the myelin sheath in the brain. Yet despite grim medical prognoses—doctors didn’t believe they would live into their teenage years—Shawn lived until 47 and Jason until 45, defying every expectation placed upon them.
The book walks readers through their childhood filled with adaptive learning, creative play, and relentless therapy; through the systemic challenges of an educational system ill-prepared for children like them; and through the family’s transformative journey into advocacy on both state and national stages. What emerges is a story that beautifully balances the hardship of physical limitations with the radiant joy of living a purpose-driven life filled with immeasurable blessings.
This book isn’t just for families touched by disability; it’s for anyone who seeks to better understand humanity, compassion, and the beauty of resilience. It is a story of triumph—not over disability, but over despair, ignorance, and the barriers that society often erects. Kathy’s narrative will inspire readers to view life, faith, and human potential through a lens of grace, strength, and profound gratitude.
Watch her full interview below: