Episodes
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Healing Through Functional Nutrition: Leslie Jackson Wellness
In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia welcomes Leslie Jackson, a functional nutritionist and founder of Leslie Jackson Wellness. Former corporate colleagues, Alycia and Leslie discuss Leslie's transformative journey from the technology industry to nutrition. Leslie shares her personal health struggles, including anxiety, depression, and physical ailments, and how functional nutrition helped her overcome them. They dive deep into the importance of diet and lifestyle in managing chronic illness, detoxification, and creating a life full of radiant energy. Leslie highlights her methods to proactive health creation and offers valuable advice for those looking to transition from a corporate career to entrepreneurship. Tune in to learn how to love yourself enough to know you deserve more and move forward in love.
Episode Timeline
00:25 Inspiring Quote and Guest Introduction
02:40 Leslie Jackson's Personal Health Journey
09:49 Transition from Corporate to Nutrition
21:03 Functional Nutrition and Chronic Illness
29:50 How to Connect with Leslie Jackson
33:23 Final Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment
Main Themes of the Discussion:
Personal and Professional Health
๐ Feel Damn Good in Your Body!
๐ช Health is True Wealth: The Real Richness of Life
๐ฅ Adopting Functional Nutrition in Daily Life
๐ The Hidden Cost of Big Food on Our Health
โ๏ธ Functional Nutrition vs. Chronic Illness
๐ A Mission to Make Health Achievable
๐ Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
๐ฑ Transforming Hardship into Purpose
๐ผ From Corporate Success to Nutritional Empowerment
๐ Love Yourself More
A Quote from Leslie Jackson
“You create your health experience every single day โwith the sleep that you get, the way that you nourish and what you allow โin your body.”
Follow Up with Leslie Jackson
Learn more at LeslieJacksonWellness.com | Connect with Leslie on LinkedIn | Follow Leslie on Instagram
Follow Up with Alycia:
Share Feedback with Alycia About the Podcast | Follow Alycia on Instagram | Connect with Alycia on LinkedIn | Book Alycia for a Speaking Event | Inquire on How Alycia Can Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Buy Alycia’s DEIA Micro Learning Video Series
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A Long Awaited Journey for Disability in Cinema: Inclusion, Innovation and Unveiling 'Daruma'
In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes actors Tobias Forrest and John W. Lawson to discuss their latest film, 'Daruma.' This film is making cinematic history by featuring two lead actors with disabilities in a narrative that isn’t centered on disability. Tobias and John share their seven-year journey in making the film, the importance of authentic disability representation, and the impact they hope 'Daruma' will have on the entertainment industry and beyond. The episode delves into the significance of perseverance, the power of community, and how the film industry can be more inclusive. Viewers are encouraged to support 'Daruma' by checking out the trailer dropping on November 8th and streaming the film, available on Amazon starting November 15th.
Key Topics Discussed
๐ฌ Groundbreaking History in Hollywood
๐ Authentic Representation and Well-Written Scripts
๐ Challenges and Daily Life
๐ค The Power of the Disability Community
๐ Disability in Media Representation Statistics
๐ Inclusivity in Daruma
โค๏ธ Impact and Heart of Daruma
๐ฅ Industry Improvements and Inclusion
๐ Global Casting and No Excuses
๐ Daruma Doll Tradition
๐ Humor, Heart, and Personal Reflections
๐ Broader Audiences and Bridging the Story of Disability in Movies
โ๏ธ Optimism and Altitude Final Thoughts
An Episode Timeline
00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alicia
00:25 Meet the Groundbreaking Actors of Daruma
01:43 The Journey of Daruma: Seven Years in the Making
04:14 The Power of Authentic Representation
06:43 Behind the Scenes: Challenges and Triumphs
10:33 Advocacy and Progress in the Entertainment Industry
12:38 Daruma: Release Details and Audience Engagement
14:54 The Importance of Inclusion and Representation
26:16 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Messages
Quotes from Toby and John:
“The power of entertainment is: one, to educate society, and two, to inspire conversations.” ~ Tobias Forrest
“It’s just $5.99—yes, less than your morning latte. And those are metrics that we can then go back to studios and say, look at this film.” ~ John W. Lawson
Learn more about and Connect with Tobias and his Favorite Organizations
Tobias on IMDb | Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation | Media Access Awards | Tobias on Instagram
Connect with John W. Lawson
@jwlawson57 | John on Facebook | John on IMDb | John on LinkedIn
Connect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Missing episodes?
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Embracing Disabled Joy: Advocacy, Innovation, and Community with Ali Cameron from Seated Perspectives
In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia', host Alycia engages in an inspiring conversation with disability advocate, content creator, brand builder and entrepreneur Ali Cameron, founder of Seated Perspectives. They explore Ali Cameron's journey from a life-altering spinal cord injury at age 14 to becoming a leading voice in disability advocacy. The discussion encompasses the importance of finding joy amidst challenges, creating inclusive spaces, and redefining societal perceptions about disability. Ali Cameron shares personal anecdotes on overcoming internalized ableism and leveraging AI as an accessibility tool, offering advice to aspiring disabled creators on building authentic brands. The episode highlights the value of community, global perspectives on advocacy, and Ali Cameron's future goals as a coach, including writing a book on disabled joy, encouraging listeners to boldly pursue their dreams. Ali is fiercely committed to expanding the disabled narratives by centering disabled joy.
Themes of the Conversation
๐งก Finding Joy and Strength in Advocacy
๐ Rewriting the Narrative: Normalizing Disability
๐ Embracing the Full Spectrum of Disability
๐ค Rethinking AI: More Than Just a Shortcut
โณ Life Changed in Seconds: The Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries
Key Moments in the Episode
00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia
00:27 Meet Ali Cameron: Disability Advocate and Entrepreneur
02:15 Ali Cameron's Disability Journey: From Injury to Advocacy
05:15 Finding Community and Embracing Disabled Joy
09:00 The Power of Disabled Joy and Changing Narratives
12:34 Impactful Stories and Client Successes
15:00 The Ripple Effect of Impact
15:23 Barriers for Disabled Content Creators
16:01 Creativity and Innovation in the Disabled Community
16:43 Access to Income and Entrepreneurship
18:05 AI as an Accessibility Tool
20:26 Cultural Influences on Advocacy
23:00 Advice for Disabled Entrepreneurs
25:41 Future Aspirations and North Star
27:48 Final Thoughts and Announcements
Quote from Ali Cameron:
“To ‘normalize’ disability, we need to show all the different facets of it, and show that it's as dimensional as any other human experience.” ~ Ali Cameron
Connect with Ali: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn
Connect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Welcome Lizzy O.
In Episode 69 of Pushing Forward with Alycia | Disability Podcast, Alycia welcomes social media influencer Lizzy O. to discuss her life, advocacy, and how she balances being a mother with her powerful presence online. Lizzy opens up about the car accident that left her disabled, the role faith plays in her journey, and how it has grounded her through personal challenges.
Key Moments:
โจ Faith and Strength – Lizzy shares how her faith has helped her navigate life.
๐ช The Power of Authenticity – The importance of staying true to yourself in life and work.
๐ฉ๐ง Motherhood and Advocacy – Lizzy discusses balancing both roles and her journey as an advocate.
๐ฑ Influencing for Impact – How Lizzy uses her online presence to create change.
๐ Building Community – The importance of connecting with other advocates.
Quote:
"Staying true to yourself is the greatest form of advocacy. When you embrace who you are, you empower others to do the same." - Lizzy O.
Timestamps:
[00:01:10] – Lizzy introduces her story.
[00:05:30] – Faith as a pillar of strength.
[00:10:15] – Juggling motherhood and advocacy.
[00:15:45] – Becoming a social influencer.
[00:20:25] – Building a supportive community.
Connect with Lizzy O.:
Web | Instagram | Twitter
Connect with Alycia:
Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Welcome lifelong friend, Katie Davis
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia Anderson is joined by her best friend of 20 years, Katie Davis. Together, they discuss their lifelong friendship, disability advocacy, and Alycia’s incredible experience walking the Runway of Dreams representing Target. From Target’s adaptive fashion line to Alycia's motivational speaking at Netflix and PBS, Alycia and Katie dive into the importance of inclusivity in fashion and beyond.
They also reflect on how Target and other companies are leading the charge in creating accessible fashion for all, and how their experiences have shaped their advocacy work. This heartfelt conversation touches on resilience, friendship, and their shared passion for pushing the disability rights movement forward.
Key Moments:
๐งฅ Alycia Walks the Runway of Dreams — Alycia models Target’s adaptive fashion at the iconic event.
๐ผ Corporate Partnerships — From Netflix to PBS, Alycia’s work with major brands promotes inclusion.
๐ซ A Friendship That Boosts Advocacy — Alycia and Katie discuss their shared mission for disability rights and representation.
๐ด Target’s Adaptive Fashion — The impact of Target’s inclusive designs for people with disabilities.
๐ฌ How Listeners Can Get Involved — Tips on becoming an advocate and creating more inclusive spaces.
Timestamps:
[00:01:15] Katie and Alycia discuss their decades-long friendship.
[00:04:30] Alycia’s experience on the Runway of Dreams wearing Target’s adaptive fashion line.
[00:09:20] The role of corporate partnerships, featuring Netflix and PBS.
[00:15:00] How disability advocacy and fashion intersect.
[00:20:50] Alycia’s call to action: How to get involved in disability rights advocacy.
Memorable Quote:
“Katie and I have shared this journey of advocacy for years, and walking the Runway of Dreams for Target was not just a moment of pride, but a step toward real change in the fashion industry.” — Alycia Anderson
๏ปฟConnect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Welcome, Chris Ruden!
In episode 67 of Pushing Forward with Alycia / A Disability Podcast, Alycia Anderson sits down with Chris Ruden, an elite powerlifter/weightlifter, motivational speaker, and disability advocate. Born with a congenital limb difference and living with Type 1 diabetes, Chris shares his journey of overcoming adversity to become a seven-time world-record-holding powerlifter and a passionate advocate for disability rights. From his experience on "The Titan Games" with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson to his relentless advocacy for body positivity and accessibility, Chris offers invaluable insights into resilience and empowerment.
Dismantling stereotypes
Throughout the conversation, Chris discusses his path to self-acceptance and how he uses his platform to dismantle ableist stereotypes and inspire others with disabilities. He opens up about his struggles, triumphs, and the tools he’s used to thrive in a world often not built for people with disabilities. Chris’s story is not only about physical strength but also about the mental and emotional resilience required to advocate for yourself and others.
Claiming our space
Join Alycia and Chris as they dive into the significance of representation, visibility, and how people with disabilities can claim their space in fitness, sports, and the world at large. This episode is a testament to the power of turning perceived weaknesses into strengths and pushing forward, no matter the barriers.
Key Moments:
๐ช Chris’s early challenges with his limb difference and Type 1 diabetes — [00:03:05]
๐๏ธโ๏ธ Breaking powerlifting world records and overcoming ableism in sports — [00:10:25]
๐บ Appearing on “The Titan Games” with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson — [00:20:15]
๐๏ธ How Chris became a motivational speaker and advocate for body positivity — [00:28:45]
๐ง Overcoming mental health struggles and the importance of mindset — [00:35:50]
Quote:
"You can't always control what happens to you, but you can control how you respond to it. Disability is not a limitation—it's an opportunity to prove that anything is possible." — Chris Ruden
Connect with Chris: Website | Instagram | YouTube
Connect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Welcome, Kam Redlawsk
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, Alycia welcomes Kam Redlawsk, an artist and disability advocate who brings her lived experiences with Rare Progressive Muscular Dystrophy GNE Myopathy into the spotlight through her signature “monster” character.
Kam has faced significant challenges. Despite this, she’s turned to her art as a way to not only process her own journey but also advocate for the disability community. Learn more about GNE Myopathy and how Kam’s character, “the monster,” has become a powerful symbol of her strength and determination. Kam’s story, from her initial misdiagnoses to finally finding answers through a Google search, is deeply personal and heartwarming.
Key Moments:
๐จ Kam’s Monster Art: Kam shares how she channels her experiences with disability into monster-themed art, redefining what it means to live with a rare condition.
๐ก A Google Search that Changed Everything: Kam explains how a simple Google search connected her to others with her same diagnosis, offering her community and understanding.
๐ง Navigating a Rare Disorder: Kam discusses living with GNE Myopathy, detailing the challenges and triumphs that come with her condition.
๐ ๏ธ Art as a Tool for Advocacy: Kam talks about how her art became a platform for disability activism, fighting ableism and educating the public.
๐ค Building a Supportive Community: Kam reflects on the importance of community in navigating her diagnosis and how she fosters connection through her advocacy.
Timestamps:
[00:00:50] — Kam’s Introduction: Meet Kam Redlawsk, an artist and advocate with GNE Myopathy.
[00:04:15] — Finding a Community: Kam’s life-changing Google search and how it led her to find others with the same diagnosis.
[00:10:30] — The Birth of the Monster Art: How Kam started using her art to express the emotional complexities of living with a disability.
[00:18:45] — Art as Advocacy: Kam discusses how her monster-themed art helps fight ableism and challenges societal perceptions of disability.
[00:25:20] — Building Support through Art: Kam reflects on creating a supportive community through her work and how it empowers others facing similar struggles.
Quote:
“It’s not about my wheelchair fitting in the world; it’s about the world adapting to fit me and everyone else with disabilities. We deserve the same access.”
Connect with Kam Redlawsk:
Web | Instagram | LinkedIn | Tik Tok | Facebook | YouTube | Art Portfolio
Connect with Alycia:
Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
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Welcome Jess Gregory
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, Alycia Anderson chats with Jess Gregory, a disabled poet, writer, and patient advocate who uses her experiences with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and medical gaslighting to fuel her poetry and advocacy work. Jess, author of Burns Unit: Poetry to Heal the Wounds of Medical Gaslighting, shares her journey from undiagnosed illness to becoming a powerful voice in the disability community. She discusses the challenges of living with a rare condition, the importance of believing patients, and how she channels her experiences into her writing to inspire and educate others.
Jess opens up about her diagnosis of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, a complex connective tissue disorder that is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed. She recounts her struggles with the medical system, where her symptoms were frequently dismissed or misunderstood, leading to years of pain and uncertainty. Through her poetry, Jess found a way to process her experiences and advocate for better understanding and treatment of chronic illnesses.
This episode also explores Jess's advice for others facing similar challenges and her hopes for how her work can influence both the medical community and the general public. Her poetry serves not only as an outlet for her own experiences but also as a beacon of hope for others who feel silenced by their conditions.
Key Moments:
–Jess's Journey with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
–The Inspiration Behind "Burns Unit"
–Using Poetry to Heal and Advocate
–Challenges in the Medical System
–Advice for Patients and Medical Professionals
Skip to:
[3:12] - Jess shares her journey with undiagnosed Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and the impact of medical gaslighting.
[10:45] - The inspiration behind Burns Unit and how writing became a form of therapy for Jess.
[15:30] - Jess discusses the importance of disability-informed therapy and finding the right support.
[21:20] - A powerful reading from Burns Unit that resonates with many living with chronic illness.
[28:55] - Jess’s advice for the medical community on how to better support patients with rare diseases.
Quote:
"Your shame will turn to rage. Your rage will turn to action. Your action will turn to change. Your change will turn to progress." - Jess Gregory
Connect with Jess Gregory:
Jess Gregory's Website | Instagram | Burns Unit Book: Purchase on Amazon
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Cassidy Huff's Influencer Status
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, Alycia Anderson sits down with the extraordinary Cassidy Huff, a disability rights activist, author, and content creator. Diagnosed with congenital scoliosis, and Goldenhar syndrome, Cassidy has undergone over 40 surgeries and emerged as a powerful advocate for the disabled community.
Cassidy’s viral moment on social media has since turned into a lifelong commitment to championing disability rights, shattering stereotypes, and creating inclusive spaces for all. Tune in to hear Cassidy’s compelling story and learn how she’s using her platform to empower others and challenge societal norms.
Key Moments:
--Cassidy’s diagnosis and early challenges.
--The viral moment that sparked her advocacy journey.
--How Cassidy’s content creation is changing perceptions of disability.
--The impact of 40+ surgeries on her life and advocacy work.
--Cassidy’s vision for the future of disability rights.
Timestamps:
[00:02:00] Cassidy shares her diagnosis of congenital scoliosis and Goldenhar syndrome.
[00:08:15] The viral video that launched her advocacy career.
[00:15:45] How Cassidy’s social media presence is influencing change.
[00:22:30] Discussing the challenges and triumphs of undergoing over 40 surgeries.
[00:30:00] Cassidy’s hopes and goals for the future of disability rights.
Quote:
“Every surgery, every challenge has only made me more determined to advocate for those who feel unseen. Our voices matter, and together, we can create a more inclusive world.” — Cassidy Huff
Connect with Cassidy Huff:
Website: cassidyhuff.com | Instagram: @cass_huff | YouTube: Cassidy Huff Channel | TikTok: @casshuff
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Episode Summary:
In this special episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, host Alycia Anderson, joined by her husband Marty Anderson, takes listeners on an exciting journey as they explore the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games. Alycia and Marty share their experiences on watching live at this monumental event, highlighting their passion for adaptive sports and the critical importance of accessibility in travel. This episode underscores their commitment to disability advocacy and their adventurous spirit in navigating the beautiful yet challenging city of Paris.
As a former wheelchair tennis player for Team USA, Marty brings unique insights into the Paralympic Games. Together, they discuss their packed itinerary, including events like wheelchair tennis at Roland Garros and para-equestrian at the historic Palace of Versailles. This episode also delves into the significance of the Paralympic Games and how they foster inclusion and challenge societal perceptions of disability.
Key Moments:
- Marty’s Dream Come True: Experiencing the Paralympics as a spectator.
- Adaptive Sports Advocacy: Marty shares insights on Adaptive Athletics Association.
- Overcoming Accessibility Challenges: Navigating Paris as a disabled couple.
- The Paralympic Games Explained: Alycia breaks down the importance of the event.
- Upcoming Adventures: Alycia’s exciting plans for New York Fashion Week.
Quote:
"Never give up on your dreams because they still can come true." – Marty Anderson
Timestamps:
0:00 - Introduction
1:35 - The Paris Paralympics: How Alycia and Marty decided to attend
5:00 - Marty’s journey in wheelchair tennis and Paralympic aspirations
9:25 - Exploring Paris as a disabled couple
12:10 - Paralympic events at historic venues: Roland Garros and Versailles
18:20 - The significance of the Paralympics in promoting inclusion
22:45 - Adaptive Athletics Association and grassroots sports advocacy
28:00 - Wrapping up with Alycia’s upcoming participation in New York Fashion Week
Links & Resources:
Adaptive Athletics Association - Explore grassroots adaptive sports and connect with other athletes. Visit the website.
2024 Paris Paralympic Games - Learn more about the Paralympic Games and the schedule of events. Official Website.
Runway of Dreams - Discover how adaptive fashion is being celebrated at New York Fashion Week. Learn More.
Roland Garros - The iconic French Open venue hosting Paralympic wheelchair tennis. Explore Roland Garros.
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Dana Mathewson, wheelchair tennis Paralympic Athlete
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson sits down with Dana Mathewson, a two-time Paralympic athlete who is currently preparing for the 2024 Paris Paralympics. Dana shares her incredible journey from being diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis at age 10 to becoming the top-ranked American woman in wheelchair tennis. With multiple titles, including a Wimbledon Championship and two gold medals from the Parapan American Games,
Dana shares how she discovered wheelchair tennis at age 13, the significant role her mother played in her life, and how her competitive spirit fueled her rise to the top of the sport. She also delves into the impact of para sports on changing societal perceptions of disability and her ambitions as she gears up to represent the United States in Paris.
Key Moments:
Dana’s Diagnosis and Early Challenges: Dana opens up about her sudden diagnosis with transverse myelitis at the age of 10 and the impact it had on her life and self-identity as a young athlete.
Discovering Wheelchair Tennis: Dana shares how she found wheelchair tennis at age 13, thanks to her mom's encouragement, and the immediate connection she felt with the sport.
Role Models in Adaptive Sports: Dana discusses the powerful influence of athletes like Karen Korb and Sharon Clark, who helped shape her belief in her own potential..
Looking Ahead to Paris 2024: Dana shares her focus and preparation for the upcoming Paris Paralympics and her continued commitment to growing the next generation of adaptive athletes.
Quote:
"Chase butterflies, because good things usually happen from them." - Dana Mathewson
Moments:
0:00 - Introduction and Today’s Guest
0:30 - Dana’s Journey with Transverse Myelitis
3:15 - Discovering Wheelchair Tennis
6:45 - The Role of Family Support
10:20 - Competitive Drive and Achievements
14:05 - Winning the Parapan American Games
18:30 - The Power of Para Sports
21:45 - Looking Ahead to Paris 2024
26:10 - Dana’s Pushing Forward Moment
28:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Follow Dana Mathewson:
Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Website
๏ปฟConnect with Alycia: Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Julie Sowash
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, host Alycia Anderson sits down with Julie Sowash, a dedicated disability advocate, award-winning business leader, and co-host of the Changing Minds and Changing Lives podcast. Julie shares her personal journey with neurodiversity and mental health, and how these experiences have shaped her mission to create more inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities.
Building Inclusive Workplaces
Julie discusses her innovative approach to disability inclusion in the workforce, emphasizing the importance of meeting companies where they are in their inclusion journey. She highlights her work with major brands like PepsiCo, showcasing how they have successfully integrated disability inclusion into their hiring practices, leading to impactful results.
Julie’s Personal Journey with Disability
Julie opens up about her personal experiences with neurodiversity and mental health, discussing the challenges she faced and how they have informed her advocacy work. She also shares how her unique perspective has helped her guide companies in creating supportive environments for employees with disabilities.
Key Moments:
0:00 - Introduction and Today's Topic
0:30 - Meet Julie Sowash: Disability Advocate and Business Leader
2:15 - Julie’s Personal Journey with Neurodiversity and Mental Health
5:45 - Strategies for Building Inclusive Workplaces
8:30 - Success Stories: Transforming Company Culture
12:00 - Overcoming Bias in Hiring Practices
15:20 - The Future of Disability Advocacy and Inclusion
18:30 - Julie’s Pushing Forward Moment
Quote:
"Grace is one of my favorite words. It’s about working together to make the workplace inclusive for everyone." - Julie Sowash
Connect with Julie Sowash: LinkedIn | Twitter | Disability Solutions
Connect with Alycia: Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Jayne Mattingly
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast, host Alycia Anderson sits down with Jayne Mattingly, a dynamic disability advocate and author. Jayne opens up about her life-altering journey through multiple brain surgeries and her diagnosis with Ehlers Danlos syndrome. She shares how these experiences propelled her into the world of disability advocacy, body image work, and her unique approach to coping with body grief.
It's Personal!
Jayne's advocacy work is not just theoretical; it's deeply personal and incredibly practical. She delves into her innovative adaptive jeans project with No Back Gap, a company dedicated to creating stylish and functional clothing for people with disabilities. Jayne's passion for making adaptive fashion accessible to all shines through as she discusses the importance of clothing that not only fits well but also makes people feel confident and empowered.
The conversation also highlights Jayne's collaboration with Kamala Harris and the Disabled Voters for Harris initiative, which aims to amplify the voices of disabled individuals in the political arena.
Key Moments:
–Jayne's journey with intracranial hypertension and Ehlers Danlos syndrome and its impact on her life.
–The role of body image in disability advocacy.
–Insights into Jayne's adaptive jean project and its significance for the disability community.
–Jayne's collaboration with adaptive fashion designers.
–The upcoming release of Jayne's book "This is Body Grief."
Quote:
"My body may have changed, but my spirit remains strong. Body grief is real, and it's something we all experience. Embrace your journey and find strength in your resilience." - Jayne Mattingly
Skip to:
0:00 - Introduction and Today's Topic
0:30 - Meet Jayne Mattingly: Disability Advocate and Author
1:40 - Jayne's Early Life and Diagnosis with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome
2:32 - Overcoming Medical Challenges and Finding Advocacy
4:17 - The Concept of Body Grief and Its Universal Impact
5:43 - Jayne's Adaptive Jeans Project with No Back Gap
7:23 - Collaborating with Kamala Harris on Disability Rights
8:18 - The Importance of Representation in Media and Politics
9:26 - Jayne's Involvement with Disabled Voters for Harris
10:43 - The Upcoming Release of Jayne's Book "This is Body Grief"
11:33 - Transforming the Future of Disability Inclusion
12:18 - Join the Movement: Supporting Disability Advocacy
13:43 - Alycia's Reflections and Personal Story
14:36 - Future Goals and Call to Action
16:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Follow Jayne Mattingly:
Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | The "And" Initiative
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Episode Overview
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson speaks with Lisa Cox, a globally published writer and a leading advocate for disability inclusion. Lisa shares her powerful journey from experiencing a life-changing brain hemorrhage to becoming a prominent voice in the media and advertising industry. Her insights on representation, body image, and the importance of disability inclusion in corporate spaces are both enlightening and inspiring.
Lisa opens up about her early life, her unexpected transition into the world of disability, and the challenges she faced along the way. She discusses the initial struggles of coming to terms with her new reality and how she overcame societal stereotypes and personal doubts. Lisa transformed her experiences into a driving force for change, using her background in advertising to advocate for better representation of disabled individuals.
Throughout the episode, Lisa emphasizes the critical need for disability inclusion in media and advertising. She explains how she helps brands and businesses create more inclusive content and practices, aiming to shift public perceptions and social attitudes. Lisa's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can have on promoting diversity and inclusion.
Key Moments
Lisa's Personal Journey: From a life-changing brain hemorrhage to becoming a disability advocate.
Body Image and Disability: How societal perceptions impact disabled individuals and the importance of representation.
Inclusive Advertising: Lisa's work in helping brands include disability in their content and workplace practices.
Media Diversity: The creation of the Disability Reporting Handbook to guide journalists and advertisers.
Navigating Everyday Life: Lisa's experiences with online dating and societal reactions to her disability.
Quote
"I try to help professionals find solutions to include disability in their work, focusing on a co-design approach with the disability community." - Lisa Cox
Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction and Guest Overview
0:29 - Alycia Anderson welcomes Lisa Cox
1:03 - Lisa's introduction and background
1:48 - Lisa Cox's Personal Journey
2:12 - Lisa's life before and after her brain hemorrhage
3:34 - The lack of disability representation in advertising
4:12 - Helping professionals find solutions for inclusion
4:42 - Transitioning into disability advocacy
5:19 - Body Image and Disability
6:41 - Societal perceptions of disability
8:11 - Lisa's work as an inclusive advertising consultant
9:19 - The reception of disability inclusion in business
10:53 - The role of social media in advocacy
12:20 - Navigating Everyday Life with a Disability
13:32 - The Realities of Online Dating
14:27 - Lisa's marriage and dating experiences
16:41 - The importance of media diversity and inclusion
17:56 - The Disability Reporting Handbook
18:44 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement from Lisa
Connect with Us
Follow Lisa Cox: Instagram: @lisacox.co | Website: Lisa Cox | TEDx Talk: Why Diversity is Good for Business
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Andraéa LaVant
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson sits down with Andraéa LaVant, a renowned disability inclusion expert and CEO of LaVant Consulting. Andraéa shares her journey from being diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy to becoming a leading voice in disability advocacy. Discover her work in the acclaimed documentary Crip Camp and her efforts to create a more inclusive and accessible world.
Key Moments:
Andraéa's journey with spinal muscular atrophy and how it shaped her life and career.
The significance of representation and intersectionality in disability advocacy.
Insights into the making of Crip Camp and its impact on the disability rights movement.
Andraéa's experience at the Oscars and ongoing work with the Academy Awards.
How LaVant Consulting is bridging gaps in disability inclusion across various sectors.
Quote:
"Just because I don't see it doesn't mean it can't happen." - Andraéa LaVant
Moments:
0:00 - Introduction and Today's Topic
0:30 - Meet Andraéa LaVant: Disability Inclusion Expert
1:40 - Andraéa's Early Life and Diagnosis with Spinal Muscular Atrophy
2:32 - Overcoming Barriers in Adulthood
4:17 - Navigating Career and Advocacy in Washington, D.C.
5:43 - From Nonprofit Work to Leading LaVant Consulting
7:23 - The Power of Representation and Intersectionality
8:18 - Crip Camp: A Documentary Making Waves
9:26 - Andraéa's Experience at the Oscars
10:43 - Collaborating with the Academy Awards on Accessibility
11:33 - Transforming the Future of Disability Inclusion
12:18 - Join the Movement: Supporting Disability Advocacy
13:43 - Alycia's Reflections and Personal Story
14:36 - Future Goals and Call to Action
16:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Follow Andraéa LaVant:
Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn | LaVant Consulting
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Angelea Yoder
In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson sits down with Angelea Yoder, a trailblazing Nashville-based photographer. Angelea shares her deeply personal journey with VACTERL and her commitment to using photography to highlight diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry. Discover more about her impactful project, "Let Them Stare", and how it aims to empower individuals with disabilities and change perceptions through art.
Key Takeaways:
– Angelea's journey with VACTERL and how it shaped her life and career.
– The inception and evolution of the "Let Them Stare" project.
– The significance of representation and diversity in the fashion industry.
– How Angelea uses her photography to empower individuals and create impactful narratives.
– Alycia and Angelea's shared experiences and the importance of finding common ground.
Moments
0:00 - Introduction and Today's Topic
0:30 - Meet Angelea Yoder: A Nashville-Based Photographer
1:40 - Discovering Common Ground: Alycia and Angelea's Connection
2:12 - The Start of Angelea's Journey with VACTERL
3:07 - From Scoliosis to Photography: Angelea's Story
4:17 - How Photography Became a Passion
5:43 - The Power of Representation in Photography
6:32 - Angelea's Superpower: Creating Comfort on Set
7:23 - Challenges and Triumphs in the Fashion Industry
8:18 - Introducing "Let Them Stare" Project
9:26 - Goals and Impact of "Let Them Stare"
10:43 - The Children's Book: "Look at Me, Look What I Can Do"
11:33 - Empowering the Next Generation: Representation for Kids
12:18 - The Vision for Fashion and Representation
13:43 - Alycia's Personal Story: Empowering Her Niece
14:36 - Future Goals and Call to Action
16:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Quote
"Photography is so much about creating relationships with one another. I try to have that relationship before you even pick up the camera." - Angelea Yoder
Follow Angelea Yoder: Instagram | Support the "Let Them Stare" Project: Visit Angelea's website to learn more and contribute.
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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An Emerging Solution for Challenges Faced by Disabled Travelers - Becoming rentABLE
In this episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Alycia Anderson explores some of the significant challenges faced by disabled travelers in finding accessible lodging accommodations while traveling. She introduces an emerging solution via conversation with Lorraine Woodward, founder of Becoming RentABLE, and Adam Norko, a hospitality industry expert.
Key Moments:
2:30 - Challenges Faced by Disabled Travelers
5:00 - Introducing Becoming RentABLE
6:15 - Lorraine's Personal Story and Inspiration
9:45 - The Importance of Accessibility Features
12:30 - Adam's Perspective and Industry Insights
15:50 - Common Barriers and Solutions
20:10 - Success Stories and Positive Impact
25:30 - How to Support Becoming Rentable
29:00 - Pushing Forward Moment
Alycia Reveals Pitfalls of Traveling with a Disability
Alycia shares some of her personal experiences being denied travel related services due to her disability, and how the need for accessible accommodations is essential to ensure equal opportunities for employment and leisure.
Lorraine's Personal Story and Inspiration
Lorraine explains how she became aware of the widespread need for accessible rentals through her family's experiences with muscular dystrophy and similar interactions with hundreds of other families, which led to building a beach house in North Carolina and creating Becoming RentABLE.
Adam's Perspective and Industry Insights
Adam discusses the industry's need to embrace and address accessibility as a fundamental aspect of hospitality through his dual perspective as a vacation rental professional and a parent of a child with a rare genetic disorder.
Common Barriers and Evolving Remedies in Short-term Rentals
--Inconsistency in accessibility filters on booking platforms like Vrbo and Airbnb.
--Lack of detailed property information to ensure genuine accessibility.
--Need for standardized definitions and choices to improve the booking process for disabled travelers.
The Future of Accessible Travel
Adam, Lorraine and Alycia discuss the industry's need to move from education to certification, making accessibility a commonplace consideration in the next five years, and the opportunity for the industry to pave the way for greater inclusion.
How to Support Becoming RentABLE
Visit Becoming RentABLE to find certified accessible rentals, share your positive experiences and help expand the network.
Connect with Alycia:
Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
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Welcome Dhaval Patel
We recently spoke with Dhaval Patel, founder and CEO of Lotus, on the "Pushing Forward with Alycia" podcast. Dhaval is committed to creating technology that prioritizes accessibility, as exemplified by his company's innovative smart home device.
The Genesis of Lotus
Dhaval’s journey began with a personal challenge. Born with twisted knees, he has often relied on crutches. One night, after forgetting to turn off the lights before bed, he struggled to get up and flip the switch. This experience sparked the idea for a more accessible way to control lights and appliances, especially for those with mobility limitations.
As an experienced engineer who worked on the iPhone and Apple Watch, Dhaval realized he lacked smart home technology in his own home. He decided to create impactful, accessible technology as his legacy.
Human-Centered Design
Lotus was born from extensive research and a human-centered design approach. Dhaval spent nine months interviewing people with various disabilities, their families, and clinicians to understand their needs. This process informed every aspect of product development.
The result is a wearable ring that allows users to control objects in their home by pointing at them. Unlike existing systems, Lotus requires no apps, rewiring, or internet connection. It works with existing switches and appliances, making any space accessible within seconds.
Key Features of Lotus:
Wearable ring with a single button
Magnetic switch covers that snap onto existing switches
Infrared technology for precise control
Long battery life (90 days between charges)
Portable and easy to set up
Impact and Reception
Lotus has already received significant attention and accolades, including:
Winning the smart home category at South by Southwest
Receiving a $100,000 grant from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research
Earning top scores from beta users on ease of use and impact on daily life
Broader Implications for Accessible Design
Dhaval emphasizes that designing for accessibility benefits everyone. He cites closed captions as an example: originally for deaf individuals, now widely used by people of all hearing abilities. This challenges the misconception that social impact and scalable business models are mutually exclusive. By creating simple products, companies can reach larger markets.
Looking Ahead
Lotus is set to launch in about three months, with a waitlist already forming on their website (getlotus.com). Dhaval continues to advocate for accessibility and universal design in technology. His advice for other innovators and entrepreneurs is: "Don't listen to the naysayers. Lean on your friends and don't be scared to try something new." His personal mantra is, "Bas chalna hai, rukna nahi hai" – Just keep walking, stopping is not an option.
As we look to the future of technology and design, companies like Lotus show the immense potential of creating truly accessible products. By prioritizing disability needs, we can build a more inclusive world while driving innovation and business success.
Quote from Dhaval
"Our journey over the past year has been incredible. Each story shared, each listener impacted, and every milestone achieved has reinforced our mission to transform challenges into opportunities. Keep pushing forward and never give up."
Connect with Alycia:
Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series | Feedback
Stick around:
More inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia are uploaded weekly
Open hearts, clear paths. Let's go.
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Episode Description:
In this celebratory episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast', Alycia Anderson welcomes her husband, Marty on the show to commemorate the one-year anniversary of PFWA. They reflect on their journey, detailing the hard work and significant achievements, while highlighting the stories and impact made by their guests.
๏ปฟThey discuss the podcast's mission to amplify the stories of the disability community and its role in transforming challenges into opportunities. They also share heartfelt impact stories from listeners, review standout episodes, and celebrate guests such as Chelsea Hill, Brad Parks, Mike Box, Mason Branstad, and many more who have contributed to the podcast's success. The episode concludes with a discussion on future plans, including launching a YouTube channel, and ends on a motivating note to keep pushing forward and never give up.
Key Takeaways:
๐ Reflecting on a year of growth and achievements
๐ Global reach and impact of the podcast
๐ Listener testimonials and stories
๐ Highlighting influential guests
๐ฌ Future plans, including launching a YouTube channel
Timestamps:
00:00 Welcome and Anniversary Celebration
01:41 Reflecting on a Year of Growth
02:55 Disability Pride and Achievements
04:37 Global Reach and Impact
05:58 Listener Testimonials and Stories
10:42 Highlighting Influential Guests
13:54 Most Historic and Impactful Episodes
16:00 Biggest Allies and Technical Innovations
21:13 Gratitude and Future Plans
22:52 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Quote from Alycia
"Our journey over the past year has been nothing short of incredible. Each story shared, each listener impacted, and every milestone achieved has reinforced our mission to transform challenges into opportunities. Keep pushing forward and never give up."
Connect with Alycia:
Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
Stick around
More inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia are uploaded weekly
Open hearts, clear paths. Let's go.
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Kaylee Bays: SYTYCD's first ever wheelchair dancer
In this inspiring episode of "Pushing Forward with Alycia," Alycia Anderson welcomes Kaylee Bays, the first wheelchair dancer to ever grace the stage of "So You Think You Can Dance".
Alycia shares her admiration for Kaylee, by sharing a vulnerable story of how Kaylee reminded her of the ballerinas her father used to paint. Kaylee, with her unique blend of seated and standing dance movements, represents ambulatory wheelchair users and breaks down numerous stereotypes.
Kaylee recounts her journey from dancing at Disneyland to being diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Despite her diagnosis, Kaylee continued to pursue her passion for dance, adapting her movements creatively and with expert innovation. She explains how being an ambulatory wheelchair user has challenged and enriched her artistry, allowing her to connect with and appreciate other dancers in new ways.
Key Takeaways:
๐ Kaylee's transition from a Disney performer to a wheelchair dancer
๐ญ The creative process of adapting dance movements for wheelchair users
๐ฉ๐ฆฝ Breaking stereotypes: The intersection of apparent and non-apparent disabilities
๐ The impact of Kaylee's appearance on "So You Think You Can Dance" on disability representation
๐ Advice for aspiring artists: The importance of community and self-acceptance
Challenges and misconceptions
Kaylee also discusses the challenges and misconceptions faced by ambulatory wheelchair users, emphasizing the need for greater inclusivity and representation in the media and dance spaces. She highlights her work with Studio Slay, a virtual dance studio offering accessible dance classes for disabled and able-bodied dancers alike.
Join us as Kaylee shares her dreams of touring with a major artist and her commitment to empowering the next generation of dancers. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and community.
Quote from Kaylee:
“Often times when we go into the room, we're being stared at anyways. You might as well give them something to look at.” - Kaylee Bays
Visit Kaylee links:
Kaylee Bays on Instagram
Kaylee Bays on YouTube
Kaylee's Story on ABC10
Connect with Alycia:
Feedback
Instagram
LinkedIn
Book Alycia for Speaking
Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism
Alycia’s DEI Micro Learning Video Series
Feedback
Stick around:
More inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia are uploaded weekly
Open hearts, clear paths. Let's go.
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