In this episode, Brendan is joined by Amanda Sandoval and Bernie Tretta from the Houston Marathon to discuss the inclusion of athletes with disabilities in the race. They share the initial reservations and safety considerations they had when implementing inclusive practices in the race, as well as the education and training provided to volunteers and athletes. They highlight the importance of feedback from athletes and the efforts made to accommodate their needs. The discussion also covers the accessibility of the course, partnerships with disability organizations, and the memorable moments and success stories from the race. The conversation concludes with suggestions for race directors to make their events more inclusive.

For more information on the Houston Marathon and to get involved, visit the Houston Marathon Website linked here: https://www.chevronhoustonmarathon.com/

Episode 49 Takeaways

• Actively listen to the needs and feedback of athletes with disabilities to ensure their voices are heard and respected in all aspects of athletic events.
• Prioritize creating channels for open communication and feedback loops to continuously improve inclusivity and accommodation.
• Offer comprehensive education and training programs for both volunteers and athletes to increase awareness and understanding of disabilities.
• Provide resources and workshops to equip volunteers with the necessary skills and knowledge to facilitate inclusive participation.
• Prioritize safety measures that cater to the diverse needs of participants, including emergency procedures tailored to different abilities.
• Forge strategic partnerships with disability organizations to leverage their expertise and resources in promoting inclusivity.
• Embrace a culture of knowledge-sharing by actively seeking insights and best practices from other races and events.
• Proactively reach out to athletes with disabilities and create welcoming environments that prioritize their participation.
• Implement inclusive registration processes and accommodation options to ensure all athletes feel valued and supported in their athletic pursuits.

Episode 49 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:07 - Inclusion of Athletes with Disabilities in the Houston Marathon

02:28 - Biggest Safety Considerations

03:25 - Education and Training for Volunteers and Athletes

04:25 - Bike Guides for Wheelchair and Hand Cycle Athletes

05:14 - Feedback and Insight from Athletes with Disabilities

06:33 - Registration and Accommodations

08:15 - Expansion of Categories and Future Inclusion

10:42 - Memorable Moments and Success Stories

13:14 - Course Accessibility and Safety Measures

17:45 - Facilities and Accessibility Details

22:40 - Volunteer Roles and Support for Athletes

23:12 - Favorite Moments and Emotional Highlights

26:21 - Comparison to Other Inclusive Marathons

28:07 - Steps for Race Directors to Make Events More Inclusive

33:30 - Importance of Communication and Learning from Other Races

Kristin Secor was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy which affects her strength, endurance, balance, and breathing. Despite her physical challenges, she continues to pursue her love of travel and has explored 20 countries across 4 continents, including Antarctica. Now she uses her knowledge to help others with mobility challenges to travel to their dream destinations through the information and resources she provides on her wheelchair-accessible travel blog, World on Wheels Blog.

In this episode, Kristin shares her passion for travel and how she overcomes challenges to explore the world with host, Brendan Aylward. She discusses accessible countries and the importance of advocating for accessibility in places that lack regulations. Kristin also emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their own travel experiences and educate businesses on accessibility. She provides insights into her planning process for accessible travel and highlights the barriers and concerns she faces in air travel. Kristin's goal is to create opportunities for people with disabilities to travel to bucket list destinations and make travel more affordable and accessible for all. Learn more about accessible travel and tourism by tuning into this episode.

Visit World on Wheels to learn more about accessible travel and Kristin’s endeavors: https://worldonwheelsblog.com/

Episode 48 Takeaways

• It is important to ask specific questions and make detailed requests in relation to accessibility accommodations, as standards for accessibility vary from location to location.
• Advocacy and education are essential to improve accessibility in countries without regulations.
• Individuals have a responsibility to advocate for themselves and educate businesses on accessibility.
• Planning ahead and taking precautions can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for people with disabilities.

Episode 48 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

00:23 - Kristin's Passion for Travel

01:20 - Transition to Blogging

01:39 - Challenges with Muscular Dystrophy

03:28 - First Trip that Ignited Kristin's Love for Travel

04:30 - Accessible Countries

05:57 - Traveling to Inaccessible Places

06:42 - Responsibility of Individuals and Businesses

08:06 - Planning Process for Accessible Travel

10:20 - Barriers and Concerns in Air Travel

11:32 - Trip to Antarctica

13:22 - Importance of Fitness for Travel

15:07 - Etiquette and Language

16:38 - Goals for Travel and Blog

21:02 - Where to Find Kristin's Blog and Trips

21:35 - Inclusivity of Trips

Travis Pollen, PhD, is an author, personal trainer, and Assistant Professor of Exercise Science at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. His research focuses on athletic injury etiology and risk reduction. He’s particularly interested in pre-participation movement screening, return-to-sport testing, and training load and the roles these factors play in injury risk appraisal. In addition to his PhD in Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Travis holds a master’s in Biomechanics and Movement Science. Outside academia, he's been personal training since 2013 and has worked with a variety of clientele, from an Olympic hopeful to post-rehabilitation and older adults. He’s also the co-founder of two companies, Strength for Yoga and ACL Care Pro. Athletically, he previously held two American records in Paralympic swimming and recently returned to competitive swimming after a decade-long hiatus.

In this episode, Travis Pollen and Brendan Aylward discuss the limitations of movement screening and the importance of the social model of exercise, exploring the need to individualize assessments and exercise programs based on each person's unique movement patterns and goals. Travis also debunks the myth that movement screens can prevent injuries and highlights the complex nature of injury risk. He explores the role of flexibility in injury prevention and challenges the belief that more flexibility is always better. Throughout their conversation, Travis Pollen and Brendan Aylward explore the relationship between stiffness and stretching, the best forms of exercise for people with hypermobility, and how yoga can bias strength instead of flexibility. They also touch on the misconceptions of hard workouts, the evolution of core training, and the importance of making fitness more accessible. Additionally, they discuss training recommendations for unilateral amputees and the role of lived experience in training amputees.

Episode 47 Takeaways

• Movement screens should be individualized and take into account each person's unique movement patterns and goals.
• The Social Model of Disability emphasizes the need for societal accountability, inclusion, and accessibility, recognizing that disability presents differently in all individuals.
• Movement screens cannot predict individual injury risk, as there are many factors that contribute to injuries.
• Flexibility is not the sole determinant of injury prevention, and excessive flexibility may not always be beneficial.

Episode 47 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

01:21 - The Limitations of Movement Screening

09:51 - Effective Assessment Process

23:18 - The Relationship Between Flexibility and Injury

30:40 - The Role of Flexibility in Injury Prevention

37:34 - The Relationship Between Stiffness and Stretching

40:03 - Exercise Recommendations for People with Hypermobility

40:46 - How Yoga Can Bias Strength Instead of Flexibility

43:40 - The Misconception of Hard Workouts

45:13 - The Evolution of Core Training

46:22 - Static vs. Dynamic Core Training

49:38 - Making Fitness More Accessible

55:21 - Training Recommendations for Unilateral Amputees

58:50 - The Role of Lived Experience in Training Amputees

01:05:04 - The Glorified Inspiration Narrative

01:07:50 - Treating Adaptive Athletes Similarly

In this episode, Hal Hargrave joins Brendan for an engaging conversation on the projection of the Perfect Step and neurological disorders in the fitness space. Hal Hargrave, the owner and founder of The Perfect Step, discusses the global vision of the business, which is to become the largest neurological recovery network in the chronic stage of recovery in the world. They offer a holistic approach to recovery, addressing the mind, body, and soul. Throughout the episode, Brendan and Hal discuss The Perfect Steps’ business model, which is currently for-profit, though Hal also founded a non-profit entity called the Be Perfect Foundation that raises funds for the paralysis community's fundamental needs. The conversation with Hal Hargrave focuses on the Perfect Step's approach to training individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and other neurological conditions. The key takeaway is that the goal of their training is not just to help clients regain movement, but to improve their overall health and well-being. The Perfect Step believes in the importance of transitioning from initial rehabilitation to reintegration within the community, and traditional gyms can play a role in this process. They also discuss how different levels of SCI respond to their training model, with cervical level injuries presenting more opportunities for healing and recovery.

Episode 46 Takeaways

• The Perfect Step aims to become the largest neurological recovery network in the chronic stage of recovery worldwide. They provide an inclusive program option for people with neurological disorders resulting in paralysis.
• The business offers a holistic approach to recovery, addressing the mind, body, and soul.
• The Perfect Step is a for-profit entity but also has a non-profit arm called the Be Perfect Foundation that raises funds for the paralysis community's fundamental needs. The Perfect Step's training approach aims to improve overall health and well-being, not just regain movement.
• Transitioning from rehabilitation to community reintegration is an important part of the recovery process.
• Traditional gyms can provide a next step towards an individual's recovery process if their staff have the knowledge and willingness to do so.
• Cervical level spinal cord injuries present more opportunities for healing and recovery compared to lower motor neuron injuries.

Episode 46 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to The Perfect Step

03:02 - Business Model and Equipment

06:35 - Inclusion in Traditional Gyms

10:09 - Seamless Coexistence in Traditional Gyms

15:30 - Value Proposition of Inclusion

19:21 - Balancing Pricing and Financial Support

22:20 - The STEP Certification Program

31:46 - Research and Validation

37:21 - Adoption in Traditional PT

40:35 - Transition from Rehabilitation to Reintegration

41:29 - Effectiveness of Training for Different Levels of SCI

44:16 - Approaches for Cervical Level Spinal Cord Injuries

45:22 - Benefits of Training for Different Types of Injuries

46:42 - Recovery Beyond Physical Rehabilitation

49:43 - Balancing Desire for Mobility with Contentment

55:05 - Using Assistive Technology in Training

59:45 - Opportunities for Learning from The Perfect Step

01:05:12 - Recommendations for Working with Individuals with SCI

01:09:35 - Contraindications and Ensuring Safety

01:11:54 - Vision and Mission for Life

01:17:33 - Influence on the Next Generation

01:20:11 - Connecting with Hal Hargrave

In this episode of the AdaptX podcast, Brendan Aylward is joined by Tamzin Hall, the founder of the Neurodiversity Academy. They discuss the importance of creating inclusive workplaces and supporting individuals with neurodiversity. Tamzin shares strategies for bridging the gap between initial interest in accessibility and the concerns of businesses. They also explore the value proposition of inclusion and the unique advantages that individuals with neurodiversity bring to the workforce. The conversation highlights the need for better understanding and awareness of neurodivergent behaviors and the importance of creating environments that support diverse needs.

Episode 45 Takeaways

• The Neurodiversity Academy aims to create inclusive workspaces and empower individuals who embrace their unique selves.
• Businesses can bridge the gap between interest in accessibility and concerns by providing education and support to employees.
• Inclusion in the workforce has a strong value proposition, including increased retention and unique skill sets.
• Creating environments that support diverse needs and behaviors is essential for promoting inclusion and advocating for individuals with neurodiversity.
• Remote work options and remote fitness programs can be effective ways to reach and support individuals with neurodiversity.

Episode 45 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Tamzin Hall and the Neurodiversity Academy

01:12 - Creating Inclusive Workspaces

07:05 - Encouraging Disclosure and Support

09:45 - The Value of Inclusion in the Workplace

12:57 - Unique Skills and Strengths of Neurodivergent Individuals

16:19 - Balancing Inclusion and Individual Needs

21:02 - Behavioral Therapies and Supporting Neurodiversity

23:10 - Fostering Understanding and Awareness

24:52 - Creating Inclusive Work Environments

26:57 - The Importance of Disclosure and Support

28:56 - Challenges in Disclosing Neurodiversity

31:17 - Creating Inclusive Work Schedules

33:43 - Supporting Inclusion through Remote Options

35:13 - Connect with Tamzin Hall

In this episode, Joe LeMar, a Paralympic medalist and coach, shares his journey as an adaptive athlete and his involvement with Achilles International. Joe has spent more than 30 years serving as a coach, primarily in cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field. In addition to being a coach, Joe has also been a Paralympic medalist and world champion in wheelchair softball. Joe brings his experience in relationships with Special Olympics, Olympics and Paralympics together to lead the Boston Achilles team, a fully inclusive running club of Boston. Throughout the conversation, Brendan and Joe discuss his early career with running, overcoming setbacks, and the challenges of Paralympic classification. Joe highlights the evolution of Paralympic competition and the importance of inclusive educational experiences. He also provides insights into creating inclusive fitness environments and the programs and services offered by Achilles International.

Episode 44 Takeaways

• Sport is for everybody, regardless of ability.
• Inclusive educational experiences can help dispel the narrative that adaptive athletes are less than able-bodied athletes.
• Joe’s Six Cs to Success include Courage, Commitment, Character, Class, Confidence, and Communication
• Fitness professionals should prioritize communication and ask questions to better support the needs of amputees and individuals with disabilities.
• Gyms and fitness facilities can make their spaces more accessible by providing equipment that accommodates different abilities.
• Achilles International offers inclusive programs and services for individuals with disabilities, promoting a sense of community and empowerment.

Episode 44 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

00:42 - Early Career with Running

04:31 - Paralympic Experience

06:20 - Challenges with Paralympic Classification

08:06 - Evolution of Paralympic Competition

09:29 - Educational Experience with Adaptive Sports

10:33 - Barriers to Hosting Paralympic Games

19:21 - Involvement with Achilles International

23:24 - Training Protocols for Amputees

24:22 - Creating Inclusive Fitness Environments

29:21 - Involvement with Achilles International Boston

34:47 - Programs and Services of Achilles International

36:22 - Starting a Chapter with Achilles International

40:19 - Making Gyms More Accessible

In this episode of the AdaptX podcast, Dr. Hayley Kavanagh discusses her work in the Young Athletes Program with Special Olympics Ireland, focusing on fundamental movement skill intervention for children with intellectual disabilities. The conversation explores the nature versus nurture debate in motor skill development, the importance of year-round programming, and the need for specialized programs for individuals with disabilities. Dr. Kavanagh also shares insights on conducting research with this population and offers practical recommendations for fitness programs working with young adults with intellectual disabilities.

More on Dr. Hayley Kavanagh:

Dr. Hayley Kavanagh is currently working in the role of Research and Development Coordinator for the Young Athletes program with Special Olympics Ireland, designing and implementing a coach-led, fundamental movement skill intervention. Hayley previously undertook the role of Health and Wellbeing Coordinator for the organization, increasing their health education program reach by 300%. In October 2023, Hayley completed her doctoral studies with Dublin City University (DCU) and Special Olympics Ireland focusing on fundamental movement skill proficiency levels of children with intellectual disabilities.

Connect with Hayley on LinkedIn.

Learn More About Hayley’s Research.

Hayley’s Impact on Special Olympics Ireland.

Episode 43 Takeaways

• Fundamental movement skill intervention is crucial for the motor skill development of children with intellectual disabilities.
• Year-round programming is essential for improving motor skills and overall fitness.
• The nature versus nurture debate in motor skill development highlights the need for both opportunities and good programming.
• Collaboration between organizations and Special Olympics can help create robust and enjoyable programs for individuals with disabilities.

Episode 43 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:20 - Personal Experiences and Career Path

07:15 - High School Assessments and College Path

08:00 - Doctoral Studies and Research Goals

11:02 - Nature vs Nurture in Motor Skills Development

13:15 - Importance of Year-Round Programming

15:17 - Prerequisite vs Supplementary Participation

18:57 - Inclusion as an Experience

19:17 - Challenges of Conducting Research with this Population

22:04 - Fundamental Movement Skill Assessments

24:16 - Familiarization Period and Test Improvement

26:36 - Motivation and Concentration

27:29 - Designing the Intervention

30:02 - Low Motor Skill Proficiency

30:28 - Coach Education

31:24 - Parent Involvement

32:31 - Collaboration with Special Olympics

38:20 - Inclusion in Education

39:28 - Collaboration with Special Olympics

41:29 - Misconceptions about Special Olympics

In this episode, Brendan and Greg Vanderbeek from the College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado discuss the design and development of adaptive bikes in collaboration with local organizations in Boulder. The program aims to create lightweight, accessible bikes for individuals with disabilities, fostering a user-centered design process and meaningful collaboration with athletes to ensure the bikes meet their specific needs. The university's partnership with companies like SRAM and 3D Systems has been instrumental in supporting the project, as the future of 3D printing holds great potential for assistive technology and prosthetics, allowing for rapid prototyping and mold creation. The project not only creates tangible products but also fosters a shift in students' mindset towards accessibility and inclusion.

Brendan and Greg discuss how collaboration between universities and organizations benefits both parties and provides valuable learning experiences for students, exploring the intersection between normative education and tangible experience. Greg also shares his motivation and the rewarding aspect of donating bikes to families, exploring the hierarchy of function, aesthetics, and affordability from a socioeconomic standpoint.

To learn more about Greg’s work with the College of Engineering and Applied Science at Colorado, visit their website here: https://www.colorado.edu/mechanical/greg-vanderbeek

Episode 42 Takeaways

• The design and development of adaptive bicycles involves user-centered approaches and collaboration with athletes to meet their specific needs.
• Partnerships with companies like SRAM and 3D Systems have been instrumental in supporting and sustaining the project.
• Assignments that have real-world impact foster a shift in students' mindset towards accessibility and inclusion.
• Universities can effectively collaborate with organizations by reaching out and offering their resources and expertise. Collaboration and innovation are crucial in the design process for adaptive equipment.
• Donating bikes to families through the Adaptive Sports Center is a rewarding aspect of the project.
• Patents might not be a priority, as the goal is to make designs accessible and open source.
• The hierarchy of function, aesthetics, and affordability varies depending on the specific project.

Episode 42 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:41 - Designing an Adaptive Bicycle

07:01 - Design Process and User-Centered Approach

10:51 - Accessibility and Scalability

14:19 - Impact on Students' Mindset

20:07 - Future of 3D Printing and Accessibility

25:40 - Safety Factors and Testing

28:22 - Collaboration and Innovation

30:11 - The First Prototype and Initial Success

32:18 - Donating Bikes to Families

33:41 - Collaboration with Other Engineering Departments

34:55 - Patent Protection and Open Source Design

40:06 - Hierarchy of Function, Aesthetics, and Affordability

41:50 - Advice for Students Interested in Engineering for Adaptive Equipment

43:49 - Reflecting on Past Work and Discovering the Adaptive Market

46:38 - Raising Awareness and Making Small Changes

In this episode, Brendan Aylward is joined by Chuck Aoki, a well-decorated Paralympic wheelchair rugby player and the Community Access Navigator at the University of Michigan. As an educator and advocate in adaptive sports and fitness, Chuck discusses the importance of engaging the medical community in adaptive fitness in order to increase engagement between diagnostic practices, disability literature, and lived experiences. He also reflects on his childhood navigating disability and social dynamics, as well as the significance of connecting with others who have the same diagnosis. Brendan and Chuck go over the transition from wheelchair basketball to wheelchair rugby, and Chuck provides an overview of the sport's gameplay and classification system. He highlights the importance of training and physical traits in wheelchair rugby and shares his experience as a flag bearer at the Paralympic Games, where he first discovered the impact of television coverage on Paralympic sport and the increasing recognition and awareness of Paralympians. 

Episode 41 Takeaways

• Engaging the medical community is crucial in promoting adaptive sports and creating pathways for individuals with disabilities to participate.
• The diagnostic process for rare genetic conditions can be complex and may require consultation with specialists.
• Navigating disability in childhood can be challenging, but having a supportive network and participating in adaptive sports can help foster a sense of community.
• The exposure and coverage of the Paralympic Games have increased over the years, leading to greater recognition and awareness of Paralympic athletes and their achievements. Paralympic athletes have seen tremendous advocacy growth and recognition, with many athletes gaining massive followings and attracting high-end sponsors.
• The gap between the Olympics and Paralympics exists due to logistical challenges, such as housing and venue availability.
• The inspiration narrative surrounding disability is nuanced, with different perspectives on whether it is positive or perpetuates stereotypes.
• Representation in sports, including the Paralympics, is important for wheelchair users and individuals with disabilities to see themselves competing at the highest level.
• Preparations for the Paralympics involve individual training, monthly training camps, and competitions to fine-tune strategies and lineups.

Episode 41 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Chuck Aoki's Role at the University of Michigan

01:57 - The Community Access Navigator Role and Engaging the Medical Community

03:23 - Experiences with Medical Professionals and Disability Etiquette

05:34 - Diagnostic Process and Rare Genetic Condition

07:08 - Navigating Disability and Social Dynamics in Childhood

08:14 - Connecting with Others with the Same Diagnosis

13:14 - Academic Background and Pursuit of Public Policy

16:29 - Transition from Wheelchair Basketball to Wheelchair Rugby

19:32 - Overview of Wheelchair Rugby and Gameplay

22:39 - Classification System in Wheelchair Rugby

25:25 - Training and Physical Traits in Wheelchair Rugby

32:36 - Flag Bearer Honor and Overcoming Health Conditions

36:48 - Television Coverage of the Paralympic Games

37:43 - Impact of Exposure on Paralympic Sport

38:13 - Growth and Recognition of Paralympic Athletes

39:16 - Logistics and Gap between Olympics and Paralympics

42:33 - The Inspiration Narrative and Achievements

45:13 - Representation and Competitors at the Paralympics

47:20 - Preparations for the Paralympics

48:08 - Making Fitness Environments More Accessible

51:47 - Importance of Being Active and Following Chuck Aoki

Dr. Keith Darrow, a Harvard Medical School and MIT trained neuroscientist, clinical audiologist, professor, author of two Amazon bestselling books, and director of treatment at AudiExperts. He is the co-founder of the Hearing and Brain Centers of America and audiology movements across the country to improve the lives of the 1.5 billion people worldwide living with untreated hearing loss. Dr. Darrow is a nationally recognized speaker, trainer, and his research conducted at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary has been cited over 1,200 times. In this episode, Brendan is joined by Dr. Darrow to discuss the importance of understanding and treating hearing loss and tinnitus while challenging the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding hearing loss. He shares his journey of discovering a passion for hearing loss research and the profound impact of hearing on communication and overall well-being. He also explores the link between hearing loss, tinnitus, and cognitive decline, emphasizing the importance of early treatment. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early screening for hearing loss and the role of nutrition and physical activity in maintaining brain health.

View Keith Darrow's Published Works.

Learn More About Dr. Darrow.

Episode 40 Takeaways

• There is a stigma associated with hearing loss, and public education is needed to dispel misconceptions and promote understanding.
• Untreated hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline and dementia, highlighting the importance of early treatment.
• Noise exposure, including occupational noise, can contribute to hearing loss and tinnitus.
• Changing perspectives on aging and health have led to a greater emphasis on maintaining quality of life and addressing hearing loss and tinnitus as chronic neurologic conditions. Early detection and treatment of hearing loss is crucial for preventing cognitive decline and dementia.
• Excellent clinicians in audiology prioritize comprehensive testing and cognitive screening.
• Creating inclusive gyms requires accommodations such as direct audio input and acoustic improvements.
• Lived experience in audiology can provide valuable insights and empathy for patients.
• Practical recommendations for hearing health include early screening, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity.

Episode 40 Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

01:18 - Discovering a Passion for Hearing Loss Research

07:46 - The Link Between Hearing Loss, Tinnitus, and Cognitive Decline

10:42 - The Importance of Treating Hearing Loss

11:00 - The Relationship Between Tinnitus and Dementia

15:32 - Occupations and Noise Exposure

20:24 - Addressing Tinnitus and Hearing Loss

22:37 - Resources for Education and Treatment

23:25 - Understanding Tinnitus as a Chronic Neurologic Condition

23:55 - Early Detection and Treatment of Hearing Loss

24:17 - Differentiating Excellent Clinicians in Audiology

27:32 - Growth of Hearing and Brain Centers of America

29:04 - Creating More Inclusive Gyms

29:25 - Scaling a Business and Maintaining Quality

31:02 - The Importance of Lived Experience in Audiology

33:29 - Accommodations for Hearing Loss in Fitness Facilities

35:34 - Nutrition's Impact on Hearing Health

38:26 - Practical Recommendations for Hearing Health

41:20 - Early Screening for Hearing Loss