AXSChat Podcast

Unlock the secrets to creating technology that truly includes everyone with Yana Beranek, Ipsos's global head of UX, who joins us to unravel the complex tapestry of inclusive design. This episode promises to reshape your understanding of user experience, shining a light on the indispensable role of people with disabilities in crafting digital products that work for all. We examine Ipsos's strategy of engaging disability communities from the outset, ensuring their feedback is embedded in every layer of development. Their novel approach not only fosters accessible design but also addresses the recruitment challenges in inclusive user testing head-on, setting a new standard for the industry.

The conversation takes a heartfelt turn as we reflect on the profound impact that disability inclusion has on the economy and society. By sharing the compelling story of a blind woman from the Philippines navigating the world of banking, we confront the stark reality of exclusion in tech advancements. Moreover, the discussion underscores the importance of advocating for accessibility—not solely as a moral obligation but also as an essential economic catalyst. Through powerful community voices and persistent advocacy, we explore the crucial steps needed to transform accessibility from a niche concern to a mainstream priority.

This episode does not merely highlight the issues at hand; it is a call to action for greater accessibility in technology. We discuss the urgency with which the community expects corporations to respond and the tangible benefits of embracing accessibility for all. With platforms like AXSChat breaking down barriers and fostering vital dialogue, we emphasize that change is not just possible—it is imperative. So tune in as we champion a future where technology empowers everyone, and every voice can be heard in the symphony of innovation.

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Have you ever pondered the hidden layers of workplace inclusion, particularly for those with disabilities? Hillary Wool from Boston Consulting Group joins us to shed light on this critical issue, revealing a stark gap between the perceived and actual numbers of employees with disabilities. Through Hillary's extensive research, we engage with the transformative influence of a DEI ecosystem attuned to the needs of disabled workers, the undeniable importance of mentorship, and the game-changing impact of accessible accommodations. Our conversation doesn't just skim the surface; it delves into the deep waters of intersectionality and its ramifications for organizations, stressing the need for diversity and openness in every corporate layer.

Navigating the varied landscape of global disability data collection poses its challenges, but understanding this is key to developing more inclusive company policies and generating powerful advocacy efforts. We discuss the hurdles and triumphs in recognizing disabled individuals within the workforce, and the significant roles they play as consumers in product design and user experience. This episode is an invigorating call to action for companies to share resources and enhance the availability of quality disability-related data, acknowledging the influence of identity in the workplace and the consequences of underrepresentation in leadership. Prepare to be engaged in a profound discourse that pushes the boundaries of traditional thinking about diversity and inclusion in the modern working world.

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Bluesky:
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Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

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Imagine a world where every individual, regardless of age or geography, can seamlessly harness the power of technology. That's the future tech strategists Frances West and Claire Chang envision as we unpack the multifaceted world of digital inclusion in the Asia-Pacific region. Through their expertise, we traverse the landscape where corporate accessibility strategies intertwine with the sociodemographic tapestry of a rapidly aging society, like Taiwan, spotlighting the importance of culturally sensitive tech advancements.

Venture into the heart of innovation with us, where traditional family structures and respect for elders are not just preserved but augmented by cutting-edge solutions. Taiwan's ascendancy to a super-aged society presents an extraordinary opportunity for human-centric innovation, and our guests Frances and Claire elucidate how this island nation could pioneer sustainable elder care models. Furthermore, we wade into the global beauty industry's waters, where giants like L'Oréal are blending ideas with local enterprises to sculpt a future that cherishes diversity and champions inclusive practices.

Closing on a note of reflection, we share the personal motivations that spur our quest to integrate technology into elder care. Be it the nostalgia of a multigenerational household or the anxiety over a looming caregiver deficit, these narratives underscore our collective responsibility to forge tech solutions now, for a tomorrow where the dignity of aging is upheld by the very innovations we create today. Join the conversation and help us shape a more inclusive, accessible world for generations to come.

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Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

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Have you ever faced a moment that fundamentally changed how you navigate the world? Max Fisher has, and they're here to share their remarkable story of resilience and advocacy as a deafblind, disabled, genderqueer scientist. From embracing the freedom that comes with a wheelchair to initiating a disability Employee Resource Group at work, Max's candidness about the challenges, victories, and humor found in daily life with disabilities will leave you both enlightened and inspired.

The workplace is more than a job – it's an ecosystem where inclusivity should thrive. With Max leading the charge, our conversation covers the transformative power of support and understanding for disabled employees. They don't just recount their own experiences but also offer invaluable advice for organizations striving to move past superficial diversity efforts. Discover practical strategies for fostering genuine inclusion and the often-overlooked nuances that can make or break a truly supportive professional environment.

Ending on a note where laughter and advocacy meet, Max and I tackle the quirky yet critical debate over restroom signage. It's a tale of one organization's dance with political correctness that might just have you contemplating the universal potential of emojis. Join us for an episode brimming with honesty, heartfelt stories, and a shared desire for a world where inclusivity isn't just a goal but a reality.

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Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
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Discover how the path less travelled can lead to a world-changing journey with Vishal Pujar, the  Head of Accessibility for Atos India. In an enlightening conversation, Vishal recounts his transformative leap from mainstream IT to the heart of digital accessibility, a move shaped over a decade of innovation for individuals with disabilities. His narrative isn't just his own; it's a beacon for mentorship's power and a testament to his impact on major banking clients and community initiatives, such as his work with the Pune Blind Men's Association and a pioneering eye hospital.

This episode takes you to the intersection of necessity and creativity, where Neil's team at Atos is redefining the standards for accessibility and inclusion in both the digital realm and the physical world. Compliance begins here as we explore the essence of true inclusion. The conversation delves into the importance of weaving accessibility into the fabric of brand operations and the advantages of harnessing diverse perspectives. With an eye on the global picture and another on localized needs, we unravel the complexity of catering to an estimated 1.3 to 1.7 billion people with disabilities, advocating for an evolution of accessibility that benefits everyone.

Wrapping up, we focus on the systemic integration of accessibility in corporate culture and IT systems. The discussion addresses the challenges of large organizations and the necessity of fostering increased awareness and competency within these entities to break free from a cycle of failures. Ending on a note of gratitude, we underscore the importance of the tools that have enabled this accessible discussion. We invite our listeners to continue the conversation on social media, emphasizing the collective responsibility towards building a more inclusive world.

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Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

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https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
https://twitter.com/neilmilliken
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Embark on an intimate exploration of the transformative power of accessibility with Nadia Törnroos, a beacon of change in the tech industry. Nadia, a seasoned software engineer and accessibility specialist, recounts her personal voyage from academia under Professor Mike Walt at Southampton University to pioneering an accessibility revolution at Tietoevry. Her narrative is not just a tale of individual perseverance; it's a blueprint for embedding inclusivity into the fabric of corporate culture. Through her eyes, we witness the uphill battle to locate allies within a sprawling enterprise and the tireless effort to ensure that the digital world is open to all, regardless of ability.

The conversation then turns to a broader canvas, painting the critical importance of inclusive design and the pivotal role of organizational leaders in championing this cause. It's a candid discussion about aligning the principles of Diversity and Inclusion with the practical goals of accessibility, all while navigating the social nuances that can make or break these initiatives. As Nadia shares her insights, we also celebrate the unsung heroes contributing to a more open society, urging everyone to rally together in this endeavor. This episode is an ode to those who dare to redefine the limits of technology and society, inspiring a collective march toward a world where no one is left behind.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

Vimeo
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https://twitter.com/axschat
https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
https://twitter.com/neilmilliken
https://twitter.com/debraruh

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

Vimeo
https://vimeo.com/akwyz

https://twitter.com/axschat
https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
https://twitter.com/neilmilliken
https://twitter.com/debraruh

Unlock the hidden potential within the disability sector as we uncover the transformative work of the Zero Project. I had the privilege of engaging with Sabine Wachernig, whose passion for disability inclusion and development work sheds light on forging paths for innovations that uplift the lives of persons with disabilities worldwide. Our conversation navigates the strategic methods the Zero Project employs to identify and scale impactful innovations, and we share an intimate look into their upcoming Vienna conference—a melting pot for sharing ideas and cultivating networks. Sabine's commitment to the cause illuminates the collaborative spirit necessary for true advancement, and together we examine the critical role of technology companies like ATOS in fostering independent living.

Venture into the intricacies of scaling startups in the accessibility arena, as we dissect the Scaling Solution Program's approach to catapulting candidates onto the global stage. We scrutinize the essence of internal organization, the power of an expert network, and the significance of educating investors on why the disability sector warrants attention—especially for disabled and female founders. The chapter divulges into the disparities between venture capital and impact investing, highlighting the latter's potential to enact societal change. And we don't shy away from confronting the internal challenges facing the disability community itself, including visibility and representation issues, ensuring that our discussion is as inclusive as it is insightful. Join us to embrace the change-makers redefining the landscape of disability inclusion.

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Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

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https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
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https://twitter.com/debraruh

Join the riveting conversation as we host James Thurston, an eminent figure in the world of accessible technology. Thrust from the halls of Washington DC into the high-tech sector, James has shaped a career that bridges policy and innovation. Across the evolving landscape of accessibility, his tales from Microsoft to his ongoing ventures at ATOS are not only insightful but also punctuated with a spirit of collaboration that is as heartwarming as it is strategic. His narrative is a testament to the power of inclusive design and the shared commitment across sectors to dismantle barriers and enhance technology for everyone.

This episode is a deep probe into the responsibility corporations bear in society, weighing the balance between profit and purpose. James Thurston’s perspective on the matter is sharp, echoed by his experiences across different continents. We confront the reality that businesses are increasingly expected to front the charge on societal issues, with an eye on the variances in approach from the US to Europe. The discourse winds towards the potential of companies to effectuate enduring societal change, challenging the often transient nature of political will with the steadfast vision of corporate strategy.

To cap off, we scrutinize the journey of accessibility in tech, questioning the industry's commitment to integrating inclusivity within the mainstream. The episode showcases strategies to embed accessibility at the foundation of innovation, stressing the value of elevating disabled professionals into leadership roles. With an optimistic view, we investigate the role of maturity models in tracking organizational progress, underscoring the strides being made towards the inclusion of accessibility data in ESG reporting. Thurston's dialogue is a beacon of progress within the industry, signaling a future where technology and accessibility are synonymous.

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Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

Vimeo
https://vimeo.com/akwyz

https://twitter.com/axschat
https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
https://twitter.com/neilmilliken
https://twitter.com/debraruh

When we consider the fabric of our society, it's easy to miss the threads that are only partially woven into the whole, particularly when it comes to the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Join Antonio, Debra and Neil from axschat to unravel the misconceptions and realities of partial inclusion, where tokenistic gestures often replace genuine integration. We scrutinize the current legislative landscape, examining its efficacy and questioning whether it inadvertently overlooks those in dire need of support. With a reflective eye, we peel back layers to reveal the stark difference between meeting minimum standards and embracing true inclusion.

Venturing further into the heart of the matter, we confront the monumental challenges of creating inclusive experiences within corporate structures. We acknowledge the pivotal role that design plays in mental health and the essential need for equivalent access to products and services. The conversation pivots to consider the weight of responsibility designers and companies bear when their creations fall short, potentially fostering negative self-perceptions and mental health crises. It's a candid discussion on the broader societal implications of these systemic issues and the urgency of strategic shifts to avoid perpetuating exclusion.

In our final segment, we tackle the disparities present in healthcare systems and their impact on families touched by disabilities. From personal anecdotes to global investment trends, we explore how equitable resource distribution is often more of an ideal than a reality. We confront the punitive nature of systems that discourage employment among those with disabilities, and advocate for systemic changes that support rather than stifle individual potential. With a nod to the importance of accurate data in addressing healthcare challenges, we close by acknowledging the support that keeps our conversations alive and our community engaged.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Follow axschat on social media.
Bluesky:
Antonio https://bsky.app/profile/akwyz.com

Debra https://bsky.app/profile/debraruh.bsky.social

Neil https://bsky.app/profile/neilmilliken.bsky.social

axschat https://bsky.app/profile/axschat.bsky.social

LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmilliken/

Vimeo
https://vimeo.com/akwyz

https://twitter.com/axschat
https://twitter.com/AkwyZ
https://twitter.com/neilmilliken
https://twitter.com/debraruh