Guest: Sharee Salles — lesbian mom, special education teacher, temple religious-school educator, and personal trainer specializing in clients of all sizes, including those navigating eating disorders.

Sharee shares how ASL became a bridge for connection in her classroom, what changed when she chose to be out at work, and why form, safety, and inclusivity matter just as much in the gym as they do in school.

In this episode, we explore:

• Bringing ASL into special education classrooms—and what it unlocks for minimally verbal students
• The path from not out to visible as an educator, with real-world advice on “reading the room”
• Parenting while teaching: boundaries, advocacy, and the school–home connection
• Building Jewish community and queer visibility in a temple classroom
• Inclusive fitness: form over ego, HAES-aligned training, and supporting clients with ED histories

Key takeaways

• Visibility is leadership—when it’s safe. Know the climate, then model authenticity.
• Communication tools (ASL, devices) reduce stigma and open language pathways.
• The right form makes movement safer and more empowering for every body.
• Community—at school, at temple, at home—turns difference into belonging.

Connect with Jonathan / Empowered & Out

IG/FB/TikTok: @jmbcoachingllc

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanmbarbe/

Book a Discovery call: https://calendly.com/jmbcoachingllc/discovery-call

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