Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia Anderson welcomes Eric Harris, an accomplished former wheelchair basketball player and current disability rights advocate. Eric shares his inspiring journey from facing early medical challenges to excelling in sports, law school, and eventually policy advocacy. He discusses his roles in various organizations, including Disability Rights California (DRC), and explores key issues such as homelessness, healthcare, and education for disabled individuals. The episode emphasizes the importance of storytelling, authentic collaboration, and ensuring that those most impacted by policies are involved in decision-making processes.

Cue Points for Skimming

00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview

00:30 Eric's Early Life and Sports Journey

06:36 Transition to Wheelchair Basketball

10:13 From Sports to Advocacy

11:36 Current Role and Policy Work

16:36 Challenges and Solutions in Disability Advocacy

32:54 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Message

Quotes from Eric

“When we get away from letting people make decisions for their own lives, the results are never good for our communities.” ~ Eric Harris

“All disabled people and all people want opportunities to make their own decisions—live where they want to live, work where they want to work, love who they want to love.” ~ Eric Harris

Inclusion in Action: Key Threads

🏀 From Basketball Courts to the State Capitol

🔥 Competitiveness and Advocacy

🧱 Building Blocks to Success

🤝 Inclusive Team Dynamics

♿ Lessons from Adaptive Sports

⚖️ A Legal and Advocacy Career

📣 Pressing Issues in Disability Advocacy

🗳️ Let Those Most Impacted Decide

🎤 The Power of Storytelling

💗 Creating Emotional Connections

🙋‍♀️ Including Disabled Voices in Politics

🌈 The Power of Diverse Perspectives

🎯 Finding Purpose in Advocacy

🚧 Overcoming Obstacles and Building Foundations

Connect with Eric Harris

Disability Rights California (DRC) | Eric’s LinkedIn Profile

Follow Up with Alycia

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Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia Anderson interviews Sean Larkin, a neurodivergent advocate, musician, and champion of disability inclusion. Sean shares his journey of discovering and embracing his disabilities, the importance of advocacy, and how finding community through his company's Employee Network Groups transformed his life. He also discusses his music with the hand pan and how it has become a form of therapy for himself and others. This episode, aligning with the spirit of International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPWD), is filled with wisdom, magic, and a call to action for continued advocacy and inclusion.

Skip-To Map

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Sean Larkin: Advocate and Musician

02:11 Sean's Journey with Disability and Advocacy

07:43 Discovering Neurodivergence and Embracing Identity

12:02 The Power of Employee Network Groups

20:31 Reflecting on Disability Rights History

28:14 Sean's Musical Journey with the Hand Pan

34:21 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

A Quote from Sean

“ When you show up for someone else that is exploring that identity, one or two people not judging and sharing their experience, their strength, their hope can change lives.” ~ Sean Larkin

The Entrepreneurial Throughline

🤝 A Friendship Forged in Advocacy

🗣️ Defining Advocacy: Sean's Perspective

🔥 Turning Hardships into Purpose

🏢 The Role of Employee Network Groups

🎵 The Magic of Music

🚶‍♂️ Continuing the Journey Together

💌 A Message to Our Community

😣 Facing Discomfort: Disabled Activism Unveiled

💔 The Double Wound: Self-Forgiveness in Disability

🧠 Redefining Neurodiversity: Evolutionary Advantage or Modern Misfit?

🎶 How Music Became My Medicine

📚 Turning Challenges into Curriculum: An Inspiring Perspective

🌱 The Humbling Journey of Social Progress

🌟 Go Claim Your Good!

🤲 The Power of Support: Changing Lives Through Non-Judgmental Sharing

Connect with Sean Larkin

LinkedIn Profile | Sean’s Blog Neurodivergent Gnosis | Sean Handpan Radio | Sean's Album 'A Bridge From Here To Everywhere' on YouTube

Follow Up with Alycia

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In today's episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' we delve into the vibrant world of adaptive fashion with Marilyn “Mari” Anderson, founder of Bee Human Design. We discuss the significance of adaptive fashion, Mari's journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a pioneer in the industry, and her inspirational story of resilience and creativity. Mari shares insights about her apparel line, her unique design process, and the creation of Mad Drool — fashionable and functional bandanas. Additionally, Alycia and Mari discuss their upcoming collaboration set to launch next year. Tune in to learn more about the intersection of fashion, functionality, and inclusivity.

Topic Map & Timecodes

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Exciting Episode Preview: Black Friday and Adaptive Fashion

00:53 Meet Mari Anderson: Founder of Bee Human Design

02:51 The Journey of Adaptive Fashion

14:36 From Small Town Roots to Fashion Innovator

16:54 Black Friday Special: Bee Human and Mad Drool

23:38 Mad Drool Companion: Fashion for Pets

28:25 Advice for Aspiring Designers and Entrepreneurs

31:11 Conclusion and Farewell

A Quote from Marilyn

“ If you're not interested in ideas, you're probably not gonna have a bunch of new, cool ones.” ~ Marilyn Anderson

Big Picture & Bold Moves

👗 The Journey to Adaptive Fashion

📣 A Movement, Not a Trend

🤝 Introducing Mad Drool and Bee Human Companion

🔭 Looking to the Future

💡 Advice for Future Innovators

💞 Empathy Unlocks Infinite Potential in Adaptive Fashion

🤜🤛 The Secret to Genuine Industry Collaboration

🎨 Fashion with a Purpose: Mad Drool's Stylish Solution

🎈 Burst Your Bubble: Embrace Diverse Perspectives

🏡 Nostalgic Journey from Small Town to Fashion Dreams

🧵 From Design Student to Mom: A Journey of Resilience

🔄 Turning Job Loss into Opportunity

🗣️ Why Honest Feedback Beats Niceness Every Time

Connect with Mari Anderson

Bee Human Design Website | Mad Drool Instagram | Mari’s LinkedIn

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia welcomes Winston Ben Clements, a global keynote speaker, YouTuber, and accessibility consultant with osteogenesis imperfecta. Winston shares his journey of overcoming perceived limitations, turning personal challenges into a powerful advocacy platform. The discussion explores the importance of consistency, redefining accessibility in the workplace, and the profound impact of personal advocacy. Winston also elaborates on how his marriage and fatherhood shape his perspective on disability and joy. This episode is a compelling narrative about pushing beyond societal constraints and building inclusive cultures.

Cue Points for Skimming

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:29 Introducing Winston Ben Clements

02:12 Rapid Fire Icebreaker Questions

03:50 Your Limits Are an Illusion

07:10 Winston's Backstory and Disability

10:40 Career Journey and Transition to Advocacy

15:39 Challenges and Misconceptions in Disability Inclusion

18:38 Marriage, Fatherhood, and Personal Life

31:42 Final Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment

A Quote from Winston Ben Clements

“ Accessibility is not special needs because it should just be the baseline that we build and design things universally.” ~ Winston Clements

Mindset Shifts and A-ha’s

💫 Finding Empowerment in Our Stories

✨ The Illusion of Limitations: A Transformative Realization

🗣️ Empowering Conversations: The Impact and Misconceptions in Disability Inclusion

❤️ Love Beyond Limits

🔭 A Vision for Accessibility

⛓️ Breaking the Chains of Ableism

♿ Accessibility: A Universal Design Necessity

🌍 Thriving in Uncharted Spaces

🔄 Shifting Narratives Through Representation

🎥 Transforming Views on Disability Through Authentic Representation

🏳️‍🌈 The Real Truth About Accessibility Pride Month

🫶 The Fragility of Life: A Personal Story

📱 From Family Group Chat to Viral Sensation

🚀 Our Wedding Trailer's Unexpected Journey

Winston's Website | LinkedIn Account | Instagram Profile

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Becky Curran, a dedicated disability advocate, speaker, and media consultant. Becky shares her powerful story of resilience, detailing her journey living with achondroplasia dwarfism, combating societal biases, and facing numerous health challenges. She opens up about the immense grief of losing her son Jackson, her experiences with motherhood, and her determination to turn 'no's into the next opportunity. The conversation highlights the importance of creating inclusive environments and gives a raw, authentic insight into Becky's life and advocacy.

Playlist of Segments

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:30 Meet Becky Jackson Curran

02:49 Becky's Early Life and Career

05:09 Challenges and Public Perception

11:02 Navigating Health and Personal Life

17:59 Pregnancy and Motherhood

22:40 Navigating Early Parenthood Challenges

22:48 Medical Complications and NICU Discharge

23:16 Adjusting to Life at Home

24:37 Sleep Study and Car Seat Test

26:46 A Heartbreaking Turn of Events

30:58 Coping with Loss and Moving Forward

32:37 Health Struggles and Seeking Treatment

35:28 Rehabilitation and Recovery

38:52 Advocacy and Personal Growth

43:45 Final Thoughts and Reflections

A Quote from Becky

“I wanna teach others to turn those "no's" into the next opportunity.”  ~ Becky Curran

Insights You Can Use

💫 Grit and Purpose: Meeting Becky Curran

🚶‍♀️ Walking Through Bias: Becky's Story of Resilience

💞 The Heart of Family Support

🌧️ A Journey Through Personal Loss and Medical Challenges

🌤️ Transforming Grief into Action and Hope

💡 A Pitch for Compassionate Change

🔁 Turning "No's" into Next Opportunities

🙏 Conclusion: A Heartfelt Thank You

🕊️ From Fear to Freedom: Overcoming the Fear of Death

💔 A Mother's Heartache: The Lingering Pain of Loss

👶 Heart-stopping NICU Experience: Son Stopped Breathing for 30 Minutes!

🚫 The Last Acceptable Target for Ridicule

➡️ Turning 'No' Into Opportunity

🌍 Challenging Perceptions: Living as 0.008% of the World Population

🎒 Facing Surgery and School: A Teen's Tough Choice

🎯 Focus on What Truly Matters

Connect with Becky Curran

Becky's Website | LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account | TikTok Profile | Twitter Feed | Facebook Page | YouTube Channel

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia is joined by her twin sister Regina to discuss their recent experience at the EmpowHer Conference in Austin. The conference, focused on women's empowerment and leadership, and a perfect opportunity to share about their new project, 'Own IT Mastery,' aimed at helping women scale their businesses and careers. They share insights on building long-lasting relationships, the importance of authenticity, and how women's intuition can guide their professional paths. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on resilience, ambition, and creating a community that champions equality and empowerment.

Run of Show

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Twin Power: Welcoming Regina

01:15 Empower Her Conference Highlights

06:21 The Journey of Twin Entrepreneurs

23:37 Launching The Own IT Mastery

26:52 Empowering Advice for Women

29:37 Conclusion and Future Plans

A Quote from Regina

“ The second I started making changes in my life that were all about my mindset and belief in myself, that is when the magic really started to happen in my life.” ~ Regina Weinstein

A Quote from Alycia

“ The heart of inclusion, is making space for each other.” ~ Alycia Anderson

Lessons for Leaders & Doers

🎉 Celebrating Unstoppable Women

👭 Rediscovering the Power of Sisterhood

👑 Femininity is Leadership

⚖️ Equality in Every Aspect: A Call for Fairness

🌸 Moments of Empowerment and Reflection

📣 A Call to Action: Start Your Journey

🪞 The Four Words That Changed Her Life

💪 Turning Disadvantages into Strengths: A Journey of Empowerment

🔥 Overcome Fear: Follow Your Gut Instincts

✨ Unlock Your Inner Magic: The Power of Mindset

🌅 Looking Ahead: The Own IT Mastery

🌈 Unwavering Pride and Bravery: A Magical Moment

💖 The Power of 'I Believe in You'

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia', host Alycia welcomes Theo Braddy, a prominent disability rights advocate and executive director of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL). They discuss the significance of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and the barriers people with disabilities face, often highlighting the importance of changing societal attitudes. Theo shares his journey from being paralyzed at 15 to becoming a leader in the disability rights movement. The conversation delves into the influence of pioneers like Justin Dart and Ed Roberts, and the evolving challenges in disability rights, including potential legislative rollbacks. The episode emphasizes the need for collective action, bridging generational gaps, and passing the baton of advocacy to ensure future progress.

Press Play Roadmap

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Highlighting National Disability Employment Awareness Month

00:56 Introducing Mr. Theo Braddy

02:32 Overcoming Societal Barriers and Ableism

04:33 The Importance of Interaction and Relationships

05:41 Changing Worldviews and Internalized Ableism

07:37 Mentorship and Leadership

10:01 Reflecting on Disability Rights Movement

15:44 Bridging Generational Gaps in Advocacy

19:30 Generational Divide and the Need for Unity

19:56 Reflecting on Disability Rights and Progress

20:44 Current Threats to Disability Rights

22:36 Institutionalization and Legal Challenges

25:03 The Importance of Collective Action

28:27 The Role of Allies in Advocacy

30:38 Finding Unity in Common Causes

34:06 The Fight for Inclusion and Equity

37:03 Passing the Baton to the Next Generation

38:40 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

A Quote from Theo 

“Ableism is our greatest challenge. You can improve physical barriers, but it's a hard thing to change people's attitudes about people with disabilities. Because they have been conditioned to believe a certain way about people with  disabilities for a long time, based on a whole  bunch of misconceptions and myths.” ~ Theo Braddy

Ideas Worth Rewinding

🌟 A Leader in Advocacy

🌍 Inclusion: A Growing Necessity

⚠️ Marginalized Groups Under Attack

💡 The Real Barrier for People with Disabilities

🕰️ Forgotten Struggles: A Generational Disconnect

🚫 Confronting Ableism and Changing Worldviews

✊ The Fight Against Regression

💔 Finding Unity in Tragedy

🇺🇸 The Surprising Unifier: Trump

🌱 The Power of Lived Experience

🪞 Reflecting on Movements and Mentorship

❤️ Relationships with People with Disabilities Matter

📚 Leadership: Caught or Taught

🛡️ Protecting What We've Earned

🌉 Bridging Generations for Unified Progress

🤝 Unite Generations for Success

🔥 Empowerment and Passing the Baton

Connect with Theo Braddy

National Council on Independent Living Website | National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) LinkedIn Account | National Council on Independent Living (NCIL) Instagram Profile | Theo's Email Address at NCIL | National Council on Disability

Follow Up with Alycia

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia Anderson and her husband Marty celebrate the five-year anniversary of The Alycia Anderson Company. The podcast reflects on their journey of transitioning from corporate jobs to becoming successful entrepreneurs. They discuss the creation of their impactful keynote, 'The Heart of Inclusion,' which has been delivered globally and served as a cornerstone of their business. Alycia reads a poignant letter she wrote to her future self five years ago, emphasizing their dreams and aspirations, and how those dreams have been realized. They also touch upon their other ventures, including Jam Pro Web Design and the Adaptive Athletics Association nonprofit. The episode underscores the importance of resilience, community building, and the idea that with determination, anything is possible.

Press Play Roadmap

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alicia

00:25 Celebrating Five Years of Entrepreneurship

01:03 Reflecting on the Journey

04:32 The Heart of Inclusion: A Dream Realized

07:54 Challenges and Triumphs of Self-Employment

12:38 The Power of Community and Inclusion

22:02 The Heart of Inclusion: Bridging Divides

32:07 Looking Forward: Future Plans and Inspirations

36:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

Quotes from Alycia & Marty

“We started this company saying, we just wanna be seen  more in the workplace. We wanna have more opportunities. We want the bias to go away about what our abilities are.” ~ Alycia Anderson

“When we put in the work, we try and we do it, that's where the magic happens.” ~ Marty Anderson

What’s Really Driving the Story

🌠 Taking the Leap when the Universe Aligns

🤗 Persevering and Succeeding Together

🚀 A Journey of Entrepreneurship and Inclusion

💰 A Million-Dollar Milestone Celebration

🎤 Creating an Unforgettable Speech: The Heart of Inclusion Shines

💌 Unlocking Magic: A Letter to Myself

💪 Embracing the Challenges of Acceptance and Leadership

🤝 The Power of Community & Bridging Divides

🔥 Turning Passion into Purpose

🌍 Expanding Horizons for People with Disabilities

🏆 Triumphs of Self-Employment

⏰ Seize the Moment: When Opportunity Knocks

✨ Push Through Fear and Chase Your Dreams

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 Shane Walsh, a passionate advocate and global ambassador for Best Buddies International. Shane shares his personal story of growing up with his younger brother Lucas, who has autism. He reflects on how this relationship shaped his worldview and motivated his advocacy for the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. The conversation delves into the importance of inclusion, the challenges faced by individuals with IDD, and the need for greater employment opportunities. Shane also discusses his efforts to enhance the Best Buddies program at James Madison University and his aspirations for broader societal change. Tune in for a powerful discussion on resilience, advocacy, and the impact of sibling relationships in the disability community.

Minute Markers & Must-Know Points

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Meet Shane: A Global Ambassador for Best Buddies

02:13 Shane's Journey with His Brother Lucas

05:05 The Sibling Experience and Advocacy

09:28 Challenges and Changes During High School

17:37 Shane's College Experience and Best Buddies Involvement

22:44 Encouraging Male Participation in Special Education

24:30 Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone

28:02 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

29:31 Closing Remarks and Motivation

A Quote from Shane Walsh

 “It is my hopes and dreams that one day I can develop the courage and bravery that individuals with IDD and parents of children with IDD have.”  ~ Shane Walsh

Deep Dives from This Episode

👬 A Journey of Brotherhood

💡 Recognizing the Sibling Experience

🎓 Campus Dreams and Beyond

🌟 Finding Inspiration in the Courage of Others

💖 Empathy as a Catalyst for Change

🤔 Sympathy vs. Empathy: A Brother's Perspective

🏡 The Emotional Reward of Family: A Heartfelt Connection

🔍 The Unseen Impact of IDD on Our Lives

🧭 The Power of Following Your Intuition

🤝 Get Involved: How Volunteering Can Change Your Perspective

👶 Unexpected Lessons: The Greatest Teacher Might Be Your Little Brother

Connect with Shane Walsh

Instagram Profile

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson shares an inspiring conversation with Melissa Salazar, a disability advocate and Netflix employee known for her resilience and ability to turn adversity into opportunity. Melissa recounts her journey from being labeled 'too much' due to her Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), surviving domestic violence, to teenage motherhood, and living in her car before finding stability at Jubilee Village. She discusses her career in staffing, her advocacy for disability inclusion at Netflix, and her vision for helping marginalized communities. The episode emphasizes embracing uniqueness, resilience, and the power of creating opportunities for all individuals.

Jump to Your Favorite Moments

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alicia

00:26 Meet Our Guest: Melissa Salazar

01:12 Melissa's Journey: From Adversity to Advocacy

04:06 Embracing ADHD as a Superpower

07:54 Overcoming Adversity: Personal Stories

12:16 Creating Safe Spaces and Opportunities

14:34 Career Growth and Disability Advocacy

25:41 Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts

29:13 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

A Quote from Melissa

“Anytime somebody tries to shove you into a box, you should realize that's their box, not your box. So live your box.” ~ Melissa Salazar

Highlights & Deeper Meanings

💫 Unleashing the Power Within

🏠 Overcoming Homelessness: A Journey of Resilience

🤝 Empowering Each Other

🎯 Finding Purpose and Creating Safe Spaces

⚡ Transforming ADHD into a Superpower

🧠 Embracing Neurodiversity

💌 Pep Talk for Anyone Feeling Overwhelmed: Just Be You

🌿 Finding Strength in Stillness

📦 Live Your Box: Embrace Your Authentic Self

💛 The Importance of Empathy at Work

🌟 A Journey of Resilience

Connect with Melissa Salazar

LinkedIn Profile

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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