Carrie Chow takes center stage as our first guest of 2025, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in accessibility. Her journey, rich with stories from her telecommunications and marketing background, reveals a personal passion that aligns with her professional advocacy for disability inclusion. We explore her involvement in events like the CYBATHLON in Zurich and her role at Atos, where she merges her insights in precision medical solutions with digital accessibility initiatives. Carrie exemplifies the intrinsic motivation needed to drive forward both digital and physical assistive technologies, proving that dedication can lead to impactful change. We then navigate through the intricate web of corporate disability inclusion, highlighting the indispensable contributions of individuals with disabilities. 

Our conversation sheds light on how advancements like 3D printing and AI are transforming healthcare, making it more personalized and accessible. We emphasize the power of cross-sector collaboration, recognizing the potential for sectors like elder care and technology to unite in creating cohesive solutions. This synergy could propel corporations and influential events such as CES to new heights in accessibility, making an indelible mark on the future of inclusion.

As we reflect on the progress made so far, there's a palpable sense of gratitude and optimism. We celebrate the achievements and milestones reached in recent years, acknowledging the pivotal role of 2025 in shaping accessibility frameworks globally. With a nod to the long-term benefits of accessibility innovations, we raise a toast to the promising developments on the horizon. Special thanks go to Carrie for sharing her insights, and to our listeners for supporting our journey towards a more inclusive world. Cheers to continuing this important work and embracing the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

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Get ready to master the platform transition as AXSChat ushers in 2025—the Year of the Snake—with a transformative shift from Twitter to Bluesky. Uncover the reasons behind our departure from Twitter and the impactful introduction of the European Accessibility Act. Join us as Antonio delves into the intricacies of building vibrant communities on Bluesky, a user-centric platform that champions inclusivity and engagement. Learn how we're leveraging this new space to enhance our commitment to accessibility alongside the UAE's dedication to inclusion this year. 

Discover the compelling decision-making journey, with insights from pivotal figures like Neil, Debra and Antonio, and how it reshapes our interactions within the accessibility community. As we embrace Bluesky, likened to rediscovering an old friend, we're fueled by anticipation for a year brimming with challenges and opportunities. Our mission remains steadfast in providing a platform for authentic expression, celebrating unity and progress. As servant leaders, we extend our gratitude to our supporters and look forward to fostering meaningful conversations that embody growth and togetherness in 2025.

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Discover how cybersecurity is being reshaped to be more inclusive and accessible for everyone, especially those with disabilities. Join us as we host an enlightening conversation with Lauren Iglehart, CISA's Chief of the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, and Bob Nadeau, the Partnerships Branch Chief within Strategic Relations at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. While Neil Milliken enjoys a break in Thailand, our guests share the United States government's groundbreaking initiatives aimed at making cybersecurity resources available to all. Learn about the Secure Our World campaign, designed to mitigate cyber risks while fostering digital equality, and hear how these efforts are making a global impact on infrastructure protection.

We also explore the importance of diversity within CISA's workforce, including the Neurodiverse Federal Workforce Initiative, which focuses on recruiting individuals with autism and other targeted disabilities. Gain insights into how diverse perspectives enhance innovation and problem-solving in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats. Our discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and underscores the need for comprehensive cybersecurity education. Additionally, we touch on the complexities of managing a multigenerational workforce and the importance of leadership in adapting to a rapidly changing security landscape. Listen in for a deeper understanding of how CISA is leading the charge toward a more secure and inclusive digital future.

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What does it mean to truly embrace disability inclusion in the business world? Join us for a revealing conversation with Diane Lightfoot from the Business Disability Forum, as we unravel the complexities of making disability inclusion a central pillar of corporate responsibility. Highlighting insights from the Global Business Disability Network conference by the ILO, we examine how this crucial issue has evolved from a marginal concern to a mainstream agenda. Diane shares her expertise, guiding us through the intricate balance between ethical imperatives and compliance-driven approaches. We also discuss the potential hazards of focusing solely on the business case, such as microaggressions and tokenism, as pointed out by a Catalyst report.

Our discussion takes a deeper turn as we confront the challenges businesses face in addressing larger social issues of identity and inclusion. We consider the fragmentation within identity groups and the complications that arise when individuals are hesitant to identify with them due to societal perceptions. Diane and I ponder the power of unity and community, debating whether the division of employee resource groups aids or impedes their strength in collective action. We wrap up with a thoughtful exploration of the differing responsibilities between employers and the state in tackling health and social issues, focusing on the disparities smaller organizations face compared to larger enterprises. This episode encourages a rethinking of traditional strategies and roles, urging businesses to integrate disability inclusion meaningfully into their broader objectives.

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What happens when an educator's personal journey intersects with a mission for global inclusion? Berna Bouwer, the Corporate Head of Inclusion at GEMS Education, shares her compelling journey from South Africa to Dubai, fueled by her passion for special needs education, a journey deeply influenced by her own experiences with ADHD and her son's cerebral palsy diagnosis. Berna's story is more than personal; it's a testament to the transformative power of inclusive education in a region as diverse as the UAE, where schools celebrate a rich tapestry of up to 129 nationalities. 

Join us as we explore the progressive strides the UAE has made in inclusive education, particularly for individuals with special needs. Despite misconceptions and criticisms, the UAE's unique compliance frameworks offer a refreshing contrast to the litigation-heavy approaches found elsewhere. Berna, drawing on her extensive experience, highlights how the UAE's comprehensive regulatory measures and innovative practices align with the nation's vision for an accessible and inclusive education system that champions tolerance and acceptance.

But the journey doesn't stop at progress—there are challenges too. From the high financial burden on parents to the hurdles faced in employment for individuals with disabilities, the road to inclusion is fraught with obstacles. We'll touch on poignant stories that highlight both the triumphs and trials, such as the young woman with Down syndrome navigating communication barriers and a high-functioning student with ASD striving for future opportunities. This episode promises to provide insights into the UAE's leadership in assistive technology while addressing the pressing need for more affordable and effective solutions in inclusive education.

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What drives a leader to champion disability inclusion and transform corporate culture? Meet Mike Liebman, Bloomberg's ERG lead for the United States, as he shares his compelling journey through personal health challenges and his relentless efforts to broaden Bloomberg's disability ERG, BeAble. From dissociative disorders to PTSD and a degenerative spinal condition, Mike's experiences have fueled a passion to expand ERG discussions to encompass mental health, neurodiversity, and chronic medical conditions. Tune in to hear how Mike navigates the intricate landscape of representing diverse communities within ERGs, ensuring balanced attention to various disabilities, and fostering inclusive dialogue that keeps members actively engaged.

Discover the strides Bloomberg is making under Mike's leadership towards a more inclusive tech environment. We spotlight Bloomberg's pioneering initiatives like the disability in tech conference, created in collaboration with Lime Connect, which highlights the critical contributions of individuals with disabilities, especially in AI advancements. Additionally, get a glimpse into the empowering Grace Topper event, which serves as a vibrant recruitment platform connecting talented women with corporations keen on diversifying their workforce. With these forward-thinking initiatives, we share our excitement for the potential lasting impact on diversity and inclusion in tech and beyond.

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Join us for an enlightening discussion with Johny Cassidy, an inspiring BBC journalist and the leader of their Disabled Staff Employee Network, as he shares his remarkable story of overcoming accessibility challenges in journalism. Johny's journey is one of resilience and innovation, where he creatively turned barriers into opportunities, leveraging assistive technology to carve out a successful career. Dive into Johny’s passion for digital accessibility and visual data journalism, and understand why equal access to news is crucial for all audiences. His insights offer a powerful reminder of the value that diverse perspectives bring to trusted news delivery, and the ongoing battle against imposter syndrome many face in professional landscapes.

We also explore the fascinating parallels between the unpredictability of horse riding and the intricacies of advocating for digital accessibility. Johny illustrates how effective communication and strategic framing can influence stakeholders to embrace accessibility by showcasing its wide-reaching benefits. Listen to his heartfelt narrative about a father's efforts to shatter societal prejudices and serve as a role model for his daughter, pushing for increased diversity and representation in journalism. Through organizing impactful events and challenging existing stereotypes, Johnny emphasizes the critical need for disabled individuals in decision-making roles, ensuring that diverse voices are celebrated and heard.

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Rachel Billington, AECOM's Director of People and Culture, shares her intriguing transition from policing to leading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at a major global infrastructure company. Rachel recounts an inspiring moment when her impactful speech sparked enhanced maternity leave support. As we navigate the complexities of DEI amid contrasting political climates across Europe and North America, Rachel sheds light on overcoming the cyclical challenges and backlash against 'wokery.' With a focus on fostering inclusive environments, she emphasizes the power of open dialogue to move beyond the limitations of cancel culture and encourages authentic expression in the workplace.

Our conversation also uncovers AECOM's commitment to promoting diversity in engineering, with particular attention to gender balance and early career recruitment in the UK. Rachel reveals innovative strategies, such as collaborating with inclusive universities and conducting STEM outreach, to address gender disparities. We discuss the significance of using authentic representation in organizational marketing and the broader implications of diversity across all areas, including age. From ensuring equitable gender representation at senior levels to preventing talent drain through age diversity, Rachel highlights how economic and moral imperatives align to build a more inclusive workforce.

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Paralympian and trailblazer Sophia Warner joins us to share how she's reshaping the landscape of inclusive sports with the Superhero Series. With events like Winter Wonder Wheels and Superhero triathlon, Sophia is breaking down barriers by allowing participants to tackle courses in any way they can—whether being towed, pushed, or using other adaptive methods. Her passion for creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals with disabilities stems from her own experiences and fuels the series' mission to enable everyone to enjoy sports without the constraints of traditional rules.

We explore the dynamic blend of disability, adventure, and empowerment that defines these groundbreaking events. Sophia’s innovative approach bridges the gap between elite Paralympic sports and broader participation, offering both live and remote opportunities for those who might face travel or sensory challenges. Supported by major sponsors like Marvel and Disney, the Superhero Series is more than just a set of events; it's a movement that champions diversity, enabling participants to showcase their abilities to the world.

Beyond the races, there’s a deeper story unfolding—a narrative of community building and support for families with disabled children. Sophia reveals how the series creates a space for connection, understanding, and shared joy, enhancing the sense of unity among participants. As the Superhero Series grows from its humble beginnings to hosting thousands, the call for continued financial and volunteer support becomes crucial. Join us in celebrating the extraordinary spirit of these events and consider being part of this inspiring journey towards a more inclusive and joyful sporting future.

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Explore the synergy between sustainability and accessibility in digital design with our insightful guest, Alexis, Senior Product UX Designer at IKEA. We promise a rich discussion on the shared goals of enhancing life and the planet, while tackling the challenge of fragmented reporting under the European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. Alexis shares groundbreaking strategies on integrating sustainable practices into digital technology, stressing the need for collaboration between professionals to ensure accessibility's material impact is both recognized and effectively communicated.

Shifting focus to the power of optimism, we discuss redefining societal value beyond monetary terms. Drawing inspiration from compelling books like "What If We Get It Right," we advocate for moving away from pessimism to embrace hopeful innovation. Discover how sustainable and accessible practices can not only improve efficiency and creativity but also lead to better, more affordable products. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of sustaining conversations on accessibility across multiple platforms, aiming for a long-term impact that transcends today's discussion. Join us for an inspiring narrative that challenges you to rethink value in design and business practices.

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