In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson interviews Treasa Praino, a legally blind disability advocate, university instructor, and human rights and inclusion specialist. Treasa shares her journey from facing discrimination in her youth to becoming a scholar finishing her PhD at Syracuse University. The discussion covers her experiences working in federal probation, education inequities, and her transformative work in South Africa. Treasa highlights the importance of presuming competence, interdependence over independence, and how different cultural contexts shape the experience of disability. The conversation underscores the value of inclusive education and the need for practical applications of disability research.

Your Guide Through the Episode

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Treasa Praino: Disability Advocate and Scholar

02:18 Treasa's Early Life and Career Journey

05:43 Insights from South Africa and the Path to Academia

10:06 Understanding Disability in Different Contexts

20:09 The Importance of Inclusive Education

35:02 Future Vision and Final Thoughts

A Quote from Treasa Praino

” Don't be afraid, be curious. People are okay for you to be curious, as long as you're going in with an open mind and not judgmental and presuming that competence.” ~ Treasa Praino

Driving Forces of the Discussion

🔍 Redefining Disability Through Contextual Lenses

⚡ The Shocking Reality of Special Education: Speaking Out Against Abuse

🚔 From Classroom to Crime: The School to Prison Pipeline Exposed

🧩 Challenge Preconceptions: True Inclusion Starts Here

💡 Challenging Normalcy and Building Inclusive Spaces

🚫 Challenging Societal Prejudices Against Disability

😨 Teaching Fear: A Collision of Curiosity and Prejudice in a Single Moment

🌈 The Vision for Disability Advocacy

💻 Rethinking Ability: How Technology Shapes Our Perception of Disability

🤝 Empathy in Action: Kids Embrace Inclusion Early on

🌍 Inclusivity Benefits Everyone: The Sidewalk Story

✨ In Conclusion: Presume Competence and Stay Curious

Treasa’s LinkedIn

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Cecilia Elizalde, a passionate advocate for disability inclusion. Cecilia shares her transformative journey from a successful TV producer to a dedicated advocate after her daughter, Valentina, was born with Down syndrome. She discusses her impactful work with Best Buddies International and the launch of Eunie's Buddies, a program offering support and mentorship to families receiving an intellectual or developmental disability diagnosis. Together, Alycia and Cecilia delve into the significance of delivering diagnoses compassionately, the power of community, and the importance of self-care for caregivers. Cecilia also shares inspiring success stories and valuable advice for new parents navigating similar experiences.

In-Depth Timeline of the Discussion

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Cecilia Elizalde: A Powerhouse Mama

02:04 The Life-Changing Birth of Valentina

04:39 Advice for Parents and Medical Providers

08:47 From TV Producer to Advocate

11:33 Eunie's Buddies: Building a Supportive Community

22:07 How to Get Involved with Eunie's Buddies

24:56 Final Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment

A Quote from Cecilia Elizalde

“It's amazing with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it's like a drop of water that just ripples, and everybody benefits from their presence.”  ~ Cecilia Elizalde

Core Ideas in Focus

🌍 From Personal Challenge to Global Advocate: Meet Cecilia Elizalde

💔 The Heart-Wrenching Birth of Valentina

🌪 A Doctor’s Foreboding Medical Diagnosis

🪞 A Call to Embrace Authenticity

👶 A Dream Realized: Holding Her Baby at Last

🎢 Life's Unexpected Plans 

🤝 Eunie's Buddies: Building Strong Communities

✨ Transformative Stories of Connection

🌊 The Ripple Effect of Inclusion

😊 Finding Joy Through Connection

👠 Breaking Barriers: First Model with Down Syndrome in High Fashion

🕊 Embracing Disability to Find Freedom

🙌 Get Involved

Connect with Best Buddies International

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies LinkedIn | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies Instagram | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies YouTube | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies TikTok | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies on X | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Best Buddies Facebook

Connect with Cecilia Elizalde

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cecilia’s LinkedIn⁠ | ⁠Eunie’s Buddies⁠

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Miracle Pelayo, a dynamic actor, model, and fashion content creator redefining disability representation. Miracle shares her incredible journey, from being born a 23-week preemie with cerebral palsy to becoming UCI Irvine's first preemie survivor. She discusses her groundbreaking work, including voicing the first American Girl Doll with cerebral palsy and her advocacy for adaptive fashion. Miracle offers heartfelt advice to parents and children with disabilities, emphasizing resilience and confidence. The conversation also highlights the ongoing challenges and progress in authentic disability representation in Hollywood. Tune in for an inspiring story of overcoming incredible odds and championing inclusivity.

Pacing Through the Discussion

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Meet Miracle Pelayo: A Trailblazer in Disability Representation

01:42 Miracle's Early Life and Overcoming Challenges

05:11 Navigating Education with Cerebral Palsy

10:08 Breaking Barriers in Acting and Representation

19:20 Fashion and Making Cerebral Palsy Beautiful

22:38 Miracle's Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

23:16 Conclusion and Farewell

A Quote from Miracle Pelayo

“I ’ve learned it’s not just about me. It’s about who am I doing this for? Who is looking up to me? Who’s watching me? And, what can I do to make it more possible for them?"  ~ Miracle Pelayo

Defining Moments & Messages

💪 A Story of Survival

👶 From NICU to Mother’s Day: A Preemie's Journey

📚 Breaking Barriers in Education

🎬 A Breakthrough in Entertainment

👗 An Advocate for Inclusive Fashion

💃 Empowering Wheelchair Baddies: Confidence Through Fashion

🧸 Meet Lily, the First American Girl Doll with Cerebral Palsy

✨ Redefining Confidence: Making Cerebral Palsy Beautiful

🔥 Defining Moments of Determination

🚪 A Life-Changing Role in Representation

🎤 The Real Talk on Disability Representation in Hollywood

🔮 A Vision for the Future

Connect with Miracle Pelayo

Miracle’s Website | Instagram Profile | TikTok Account | Twitter/X Feed | Facebook Page⁠

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this milestone 100th episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, hosts Alycia Anderson and Marty Anderson celebrate both their centennial episode and the culmination of Disability Pride Month. Reflecting on their journey, their impact within the disability community, and their personal growth, they share stories of past guests, listener feedback, and the mission behind their podcast. The episode is filled with heartfelt gratitude, plans for the future, and a committed call to action for continued advocacy and inclusion. Special guest testimonials and a surprise compilation of encouraging words add an emotional touch to this celebratory episode.

Key Moments of the Celebration

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alicia

00:25 Celebrating 100 Episodes and Disability Pride Month

01:32 Reflecting on the Journey and Achievements

02:33 The Mission and Impact of the Podcast

07:31 Favorite Moments and Guest Highlights

24:18 Listener Feedback and Community Impact

33:55 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Aspirations

36:02 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

A Quote from Alycia

“The fact that all of these things have come together in this moment for us, for our community is quite beautiful. And right now, in this moment, as we're celebrating a hundred episodes, it's not just a celebration, it's a call to action. It's a call to action for all of us to show up together, to show up bolder, to support each other, to band together tighter, and to try to transform this movement more than we ever have before.” ~ Alycia Anderson

A Quote from Marty

“A huge reason we started all of this stuff was out of love for each other, love for our community, and our want to help people get as far as they can in life by sharing our experiences with the world.” ~ Marty Anderson

Themes from the Heart of the Conversation

🎉 Celebrating Milestones: A Call to Bold Action

🚀 A Trailblazer and Badass: Celebrating 100 Episodes

🌱 The Beginning of a Journey

😅 From Nervous Beginnings to Bold Ambitions

❤️‍🔥 A Mission of Love and Community

🎙️ The Impact of Real Stories: Giving Disability a Voice

🌍 Validation in Voices: A Global Voice for Disability

🤝 Finding Power in Community and Gratitude

🏳️‍🌈 The Rise of Disability Pride: More Events, More Visibility

🌌 The Sky's the Limit: A Future Filled with Stories, Representation, and Love

🔮 Looking Forward, Highlights and Impact

Connect with Marty Anderson⁠

Adaptive Athletics Association Website⁠ | ⁠Adaptive Athletics Association Instagram⁠ | ⁠Adaptive Athletics Association Facebook⁠ | ⁠Jam Pro Web Design Website⁠ | ⁠Marty's LinkedIn Profile⁠

Follow Up with Alycia:

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In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Jonathan Kaufman, a business strategist, licensed psychotherapist, and disability advocate. Jonathan shares his journey of living with cerebral palsy, discussing key moments that have shaped his perspective on disability. He highlights his extensive academic background and work with influential figures like the Obamas and Mihály Csíkszentmihályi. Jonathan delves into the intersections of disability, business, mental health, and culture, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and the concept of disability as a language of innovation. This episode explores the significance of Disability Pride Month and Jonathan's unique approach to consulting, which combines his expertise in anthropology, psychology, and disability advocacy.

Roadmap to the Conversation

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:30 Meet Jonathan Kaufman: A Disability Advocate and Adventurer

01:44 Jonathan's Early Life and Education

03:59 Influential Moments and Career Path

05:41 The Intersection of Disability, Business, and Innovation

16:46 Mental Health and Leadership in the Workplace

23:36 Jonathan's Consulting Work and Philosophy

28:39 Disability Pride and Personal Reflections

31:38 Closing Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment

A Quote from Jonathan

“Yes, I have a disability and I'm proud of the person I am becoming with a disability, understanding that it is a part of who I am.

It's not all of me, but it makes me who I am. And, I see the world through this lens and I'm happy to see it through this lens.” ~ Jonathan Kaufman

Main Topics & Insights

🌟 Meet A Trailblazer in Disability Advocacy

🧭 A Journey Through Perspective

🎯 Focus on What You Can Do!

📣 Be Your Own Advocate!

🛤️ The Journey is Always a Work in Progress

🔧 Creating Opportunities: Defying a World Not Made for Us

💡 Disability as an Innovation Catalyst

🧠 The Intersection of Mental Health and Leadership

😨 Fear: The Root of Societal Barriers

🙋‍♀️ Self-Advocacy and Overcoming Internalized Ableism

🦋 Embracing Identity: Pride in Becoming

♿️ Reclaiming Disability Pride

🔥 Transforming Adversity into Power

👵 Inclusivity: Disability and Aging

🔭 Rethinking Disability for the Future

🤝 Consulting for Change

Connect with Jonathan Kaufman

Jonathan’s Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube 

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 Disability Inclusion Micro Learning Video Series⁠⁠

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson interviews Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger, two formidable advocates living with congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD). They discuss their journeys in advocacy, the challenges of living with CMD, and the significant role Medicaid plays in their lives. They also touch on the importance of disability representation in media and the arts, with Avery sharing her experience as the first wheelchair user to perform at Radio City Music Hall. Kelly discusses her passion for travel and mentorship within the disability community. The episode concludes with insights into the Cure CMD organization and the upcoming conference in Philadelphia, focusing on education, community, and research updates for congenital muscle diseases.

Episode Flow & Milestones

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:47 Meet Our Inspiring Guests: Avery Roberts and Kelly Berger

02:15 The Heart of Advocacy: Personal Journeys

05:24 Understanding Congenital Muscular Dystrophy (CMD)

08:17 Challenges and Triumphs in Advocacy

10:08 Breaking Barriers in Performance and Art

14:33 Travel and Adventure: Empowerment Through Exploration

17:20 Mentorship and Community Support

18:11 Cure CMD and Upcoming Conference

22:02 Final Thoughts and Motivation

A Quote from Avery

"In terms of people who are outside of the disability community, meet me outside of the box."

A Quote from Kelly

" Don't stop fighting. It's gonna be hard. It's not easy. Don't let anybody diminish your needs. Just don't stop fighting."

Deep Dives from This Episode

✨ The Heart of Advocacy

🧬 Understanding CMD

🌍 Empowering Through Artistry and Travel

🌱 Mentorship and Community Building

🎉 Anticipation for the SIPAIM Conference

🛣️ Finding Your Own Path

🗣️ Raise Your Voice for Real Change

📦 Meet Me Outside of the Box: A Call for Inclusivity

🙏 The Strength in Asking for Help

⚡ Empowerment Defined: Your Disability, Your Rules

🎯 When Advocacy Meets Artistry: Unstoppable Actions

Connect with Kelly Berger

Kelly's: ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Connect with Avery Roberts

Avery's ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠LinkedIn⁠

Follow Up with Alycia:

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes the radiant and unstoppable Marsha Elle, a bionic model, songwriter, actress, and disability advocate. They discuss the transformative power of turning adversity into artistry, the importance of self-acceptance, and the challenges of representation in fashion and entertainment. Marsha shares her journey of embracing her prosthetic leg, the viral success of her second album 'Brave,' and her inspiring song 'I Am Beautiful.' The conversation highlights the vital need for continued advocacy and representation, especially in light of the current pullback from diversity initiatives. Marsha emphasizes the importance of community, creativity, and self-expression, offering powerful advice to young disabled individuals looking to achieve their dreams. The episode celebrates disability pride and spotlights Marsha's significant contributions to advancing inclusivity in music and fashion.

Where to Find Each Topic

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Marsha Elle: The Bionic Model

02:04 Marsha's Journey to Self-Acceptance

05:30 The Power of Vulnerability and Community

11:03 I Am Beautiful: The Story Behind the Song

13:07 Breaking Barriers in Fashion

18:19 Advocating for Representation

25:00 Marsha's Projects and Future Plans

28:44 Final Thoughts and Inspiration

A Quote from Marsha

“ We are not going to wait for a seat at the table. We're starting to build our own seats at the table.” ~ Marsha Elle

Essential Lessons & Reflections

🦿 Embracing Bravery: A Bionic Model's Journey

🤝 Finding Community and Purpose

🏆 Making History: The First Accessible Grammys

🎶 Empowering Others Through Music

🎨 Redefining Beauty and Identity

👠 Breaking Barriers in Fashion

📸 The Importance of Representation

👗 The Importance of Representation in Fashion

🌟 Glow Unlimited and Future Endeavors

💼 Building Our Own Seats: Empowerment and Economic Power

🦸‍♀️ Embrace Your Superpower!

💞 Empathy Through Vulnerability

💔 Embracing Vulnerability: The Story Behind 'Brave'

🪞 Embrace Imperfection: When 'Flawed' Goes Viral

🔊 The Power of Affirmation in Music

🛤️ Embrace the Journey: Practice Before Seeking Validation

Connect with Marsha Elle

Website | Instagram | YouTube | Tik Tok

Follow Up with Alycia:
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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson kicks off Disability Pride Month with guest Tiffany Yu, a prominent disability advocate and founder of Diversability. Tiffany shares her powerful journey from a car accident at age nine that left her with multiple disabilities to becoming a celebrated para-climber and author of 'The Anti-Ableist Manifesto' The conversation delves into the significance of disability pride, the pivotal moments that shaped Tiffany's advocacy work, the importance of community, and the joy of rediscovering physical activity. Tiffany also discusses the launch of her new book, intended to educate and inspire better support for the disability community. Emphasizing rest and joyful living, this engaging episode highlights the importance of embracing and celebrating all facets of one's identity.

Pacing Through the Discussion

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Kicking Off Disability Pride Month with Tiffany Yu

01:32 Defining Disability Pride

02:58 Tiffany's Personal Journey and Second Disability Origin Story

07:28 The Importance of Community

13:58 Behind the Scenes of Advocacy Work

21:47 Discovering Para Climbing

35:49 The Anti-Ableist Manifesto

41:18 Final Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment

A Quote Tiffany Yu

“My definition of disability pride is asserting our worth  and value in a society that  tells us that we should feel shame about who we are or devalues us in one way or another. ” ~ Tiffany Yu

What Emerged from the Conversation

😊 Disability Pride and Personal Reflection

💪 Defying Ableism: The True Meaning of Disability Pride

💫 Tiffany's Journey and Community Building

🌿 The Essence of Community: Growing Together

🎉 Balancing Advocacy: Making Space for Disabled Joy

🛌 The Power of Rest: Why Self-Care is Key to Sustainability

🧗‍♀️ The Joy of Para Climbing

😤 Overcoming Challenges: Complaining All the Way to the Summit!

🌄 Finding Awe in the Journey

📜 The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: A Legacy of Change

🫶 The Fine Line Between Vulnerability and Oversharing

🚀 Take the Leap: Embrace Excitement and Fear!

Connect with Tiffany Yu

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube | Tik Tok | Twitter/X | Facebook

Follow Up with Alycia:

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In this heartfelt episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia celebrates her and her twin sister Regina's monumental 50th birthday. They reflect on their magical trip to Playa Mujeres, Mexico, where they were joined by 22 close friends and family members for an all-inclusive celebration filled with laughter, dancing, and relaxation. The sisters discuss the significance of turning 50, the personal growth and confidence that comes with age, and the importance of self-acceptance. Highlights of the trip include a grand birthday party, snorkeling adventures, and Alycia's emotional journey to body confidence by wearing shorts for the first time. The episode closes with motivating 'pushing forward moments,' emphasizing mindfulness, goal-setting, and the power of self-belief as they step into their next decade.

Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Celebrating 50 Years: A Milestone Birthday

02:01 Reflecting on Turning 50

05:31 The Importance of Taking Breaks and Self-Care

09:00 Memorable Moments from the Trip

15:10 The Twin Bond: A Lifelong Partnership

27:37 Looking Forward: Goals for the Next 50 Years

28:04 Pushing Forward Moments: Embracing Self-Acceptance

A Quote from Regina

“Manifesting gratitude, love and belief in yourself, even on the hard days, and turning that negative thought to positive literally can change your life.” ~ Regina Weinstein

A Quote from Alycia

“I've never been afraid 'cause you're always there, and that is such a privilege.  It's been the most important gift that I've had in my life to live this life with you.” ~ Alycia Anderson

Takeaways to Remember

🎉 A Remarkable Birthday Celebration

✨ The Significance of 50

🌱 Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance

👯‍♀️ Reflecting on Our Twin Bond

🌞 Transform Your Life with Positivity

🌎 The World is Yours to Conquer

🎁 The Beautiful Privilege of Life

🌈 Believe in Possibility for All

🤝 Stronger Together: The Power of Teamwork and Resilience

❤️ A Bucket Full of Love

♾️ The Privilege of Having a Twin

🕊️ Setting Myself Free: A Life-Changing Revelation

💝 The Greatest Gift: A Lifetime Together

🙌 Finding Support in Failure

Follow Up with Alycia:

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia welcomes Gigi Robinson, a creator, speaker, strategist, and chronic illness advocate. Gigi discusses her journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and endometriosis, highlighting her resilience and hope. She shares insights on navigating dynamic disabilities, balancing health and hustle, and the importance of self-advocacy. Gigi also details her path to becoming a published author with Penguin Random House, starting with her personal photo essay in college. Listeners will be inspired by Gigi's message of breaking down barriers and building bridges, reminding everyone that anything is achievable despite the challenges.

Quick Timeline of Events
00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Gigi Robinson: Chronic Illness Warrior

01:30 Gigi's Early Life and Diagnosis

03:21 Living with Chronic Illness: Challenges and Triumphs

06:49 The Decision to Share Her Journey

14:59 Balancing Health, Hustle, and Healing

20:44 The Power of Movement and Mindfulness

25:45 Gigi's Book and Advocacy

35:40 Final Thoughts and Mantras

A Quote from Gigi

“If you don't change something in how people are treating you or how you let them treat you in how you show up…, nothing's going to change.” ~ Gigi Robinson

Themes That Standout

🌟 An Inspiring Message of Hope and Resilience

📊 70% of Americans Live With Chronic Illness—Let's Discuss This

🧭 Navigating Chronic Illness

🤷‍♀️ Proving My Reality: When No One Believes Your Disability

✍️ You Are the Author of Your Own Life

🗣️ Speak Up and Grow: Overcoming Self-Limitations

💪 Taking Charge: Writing Your Own Life Script

🎉 Embracing Fun & True Enjoyment by Letting Go of Self-Criticism

🏄‍♀️ Why I Took the Risk: A Journey to Sports Illustrated and Beyond

🧱 Break Walls and Build Bridges: A Mantra for Change

Connect with Gigi Robinson

Gigi’s Website |  LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account | YouTube Channel | Tik Tok

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 Disability Inclusion Micro Learning Video Series⁠⁠⁠

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