Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast

In this episode of ⁠Pushing Forward with Alycia⁠, I sit down with the Honorable ⁠Tony Coelho⁠, retired U.S. Congressman and the principal author of the ⁠Americans with Disabilities Act⁠, for a conversation that reaches far beyond disability policy. It’s a history lesson, a civics class, and a moral compass all in one thirty minute session.

As a nation founded in defiance of oppression and animated by the promise of freedom, we need the values in this conversation now—dignity, equal access, and the courage to stand up to power with truth and love. This is not just a disability story; it’s a blueprint for renewing the American experiment. Tony’s story is America’s story: perseverance in the face of stigma, faith in community, and courageous, bipartisan coalition-building that turned lived experience into law. He reminds us that the ADA wasn’t a gift; it was won through testimony, organizing, and unlikely alliances that honored human dignity over party lines. He also offers a clear charge for today: rights on paper are meaningless without enforcement, and opportunity is the measure of whether our promises are real.

As we begin our celebration of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) let us remember we can’t afford to ignore the warnings of our past. If we don’t learn from history, we are bound to repeat it.

Key Points on the Clock

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Meet Tony Coelho: Champion of Disability Rights

02:41 Tony's Personal Journey with Epilepsy

07:30 Finding Purpose and Entering Politics

16:32 Crafting the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

26:15 The Impact and Future of the ADA

32:55 Final Thoughts and Farewell

A Quote by Tony

“ Give me the opportunity to fail... then I may be able to succeed.” ~ Hon. Tony Coelho

What You’ll Find in this Episode

👋 Meeting a Legend

🌿 The Personal and Spiritual Journey

💔 Heartfelt Dilemma: Love or Respect

🎠 A Merry-Go-Round Changed Everything

🚪 The Power of Opportunity

🔥 Unstoppable Commitment

🏛️ A Legacy of Advocacy

💡 The Inspiration Behind the ADA

🛡️ The ADA as Our Life Insurance Policy

💖 Love Yourself: The Ultimate Key to Empowerment

Connect with the Hon. Tony Coelho

Tony's Website | Tony on X

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

Editor’s Note (Context Matters)

This conversation with the Hon. Tony Coelho was recorded on August 12, 2025, more than a month before today’s release. Since then, the landscape has shifted dramatically. As of October 1, 2025, the U.S. federal government has shut down after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. (The government shutdown took effect just 24 hours before this episode’s release)

At the heart of this stalemate are health-care provisions, including Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium subsidies and Medicaid funding. Lawmakers’ dispute over extending ACA subsidies and reversing recent Medicaid/ACA cuts is a central driver of the impasse, with multiple outlets reporting that the shutdown fight is fundamentally about these health-care stakes.

Why this matters here: ACA and Medicaid policy is inseparable from disability rights. Analyses from leading health policy organizations and advocates show that millions of people with disabilities rely on Medicaid and ACA Marketplaces for coverage; proposed cuts or subsidy expirations would raise premiums sharply and put essential services and community-based supports at risk.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson sits down with Izzy Grimmer, a remarkable high school student and disability advocate in honor of Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month. Izzy shares her inspiring journey, including her recent battle with cancer, her work establishing a disability advocacy and awareness week at her school, and her efforts with initiatives like Accommodate Me and Magical Bridge. As an advocate for intellectual developmental disabilities, autism, and all other disabilities, Izzy draws inspiration from her brother Eli, who is nonverbal. She discusses the challenges and privileges of living with disabilities, the importance of community and allyship, and how her experiences have fueled her passionate advocacy work. Tune in for a conversation filled with resilience, empathy, and actionable insights for becoming better allies to the disabled community.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Special Guest Introduction: Izzy Grimmer

01:40 Izzy's Advocacy Journey

03:44 Disability Advocacy Week

10:27 Creating Accommodations and Resources

15:27 Izzy's Cancer Journey and Resilience

24:10 Magical Bridge Partnership

28:56 Final Thoughts and Advice

A Quote from Izzy

“Ignorance is completely in your control. If you can take the steps to learn something and be a better ally, then you should do it a hundred percent.” ~ Isabella “Izzy” Grimmer

Standout Themes Explored

🌟 Empowering Disability Advocacy

💪 Overcome Adversity

🦋 Challenges Can Be Privileges

🌿 Embracing Stress as a Blessing

🎗️ Conquering Cancer as a Survivor

🧩 Building The Disability Advocacy Club

🔑 The Power of Access

🛡️ The Strength of Resilience

🤝 Community Connections & Partnerships

🌍 A Vision for Inclusive Societies

👣 A Role Model for All Generations

Support Izzy’s Causes

Unravel Pediatric Cancer | Magical Bridge Foundation | Accommodate Me Website | The Accommodate Me Instagram

Connect with Isabella “Izzy” Grimmer

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Dr. Jessica Stavale, also known as Dr. Jes, a clinical trauma psychologist and founder of The Fascia Movement. Both a disabled vet and a survivor of significant trauma, Dr. Jes shares her healing journey and how it led her to integrate Fascia Medicine, psychology, and integrative practices. She discusses the importance of the fascia system in healing physical and emotional pain and explains her innovative medical device aimed at releasing fascia tension. Together, Alycia and Dr. Jes explore the psychological aspects of trauma, the resilience of the human spirit, and how embracing our energetic selves can lead to profound personal healing and growth. Dr. Jes also introduces her upcoming book, 'The Fascia Blueprint.' This inspiring conversation encourages listeners to adopt a growth mindset and advocate for their own well-being.

Episode Flow & Milestones

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:29 Healing Trauma with Dr. Jes

02:14 Dr. Jes's Personal Healing Journey

07:56 Understanding Fascia Medicine

11:59 Integrative Practices and Wellness

20:52 The Psychological Shift and Victim Mentality

27:32 Building a Supportive Community

30:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Some Quotes from Dr. Jessica Stavale

“ You define you, no matter the limitations.” ~ Dr. Jessica Stavale

“ You have to stay in growth mindset to be able to know yourself, and to learn others, and to learn new ways forward, and to know that  intelligence continues to grow.” ~ Dr. Jessica Stavale

Main Topics & Insights

🪷 Healing Through Connection: An Introduction to Dr. Jes

🌈 Creating Community Through Hope and Healing

🌱 Embracing a Growth Mindset

🧩 Understanding Fascia: The Missing Link

🌿 Healing Journey: Integrative Medicine and More

✨ The Power of Believing in Possibility

🌐 The Power of Human Connection in a Digital Age

🧘 Trust Your Body's Intelligence

🌟 You Deserve More: Empowering Words for Everyone

💪 Finding Strength Amid Adversity

🔮 Defining Yourself: Overcoming Adversity Through Intuition

🕊️ Transforming Pain into Peace: A Journey of Healing

🚫 Refuse to Accept the Narrative

👨‍👩‍👧 Survival and Family: The Power of Getting Through

Connect with Dr. Jessica Stavale
The Fascia Movement Website | Dr Jes’s Instagram | Dr. Jes’s Facebook

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson discusses the revolutionary concept of beauty with Zian Chavez, a Spanish indigenous, queer, non-binary neurodiverse artist and film producer. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Chavez shares insights from her groundbreaking documentary, 'We Are The Most Beautiful People,' which highlights the intrinsic beauty of adults with disabilities worldwide. Together, they explore themes of resilience, intersectionality, and advocacy. Chavez advocates for a collective understanding that beauty is a feeling, emphasizing the importance of kindness, compassion, and unity in overcoming ableism and societal inequities.

Where We Went - Step-by-Step

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Exploring Beauty Beyond Skin Deep

00:49 Meet Zian Chavez: Redefining Beauty

01:54 The Inspiration Behind 'We Are The Most Beautiful People'

05:43 Challenges and Triumphs in Disability Advocacy

08:16 Global Perspectives on Beauty and Disability

13:57 Creating the Documentary: A Journey of Art and Healing

20:49 Future of the Film and Final Thoughts

A Quote from Zian

“Adults with disabilities are the most beautiful people. They're so amazing.” ~ Zian Chavez

Essential Lessons & Reflections

🤝 A Message on the Power of Inclusivity

🌍 The World Can Learn a Lot

💪 The Resilience of Disability

🧭 Finding New Paths

🌈 Embracing Our Unique Differences

🚀 Breaking Boundaries: 'Watch Me. Just Watch.'

✨ Redefining Beauty and Authenticity

🦋 Beauty as a Path to Cultural Transformation

🌐 There Is No Us and Them—Only Us

🌟 Changing the World Since Birth

🎨 Art as a Conduit for Change

🫶 Uniting Through Diversity

🧩 Power of Intersectional Advocacy

❤️ Love Will Always Win

👣 Moving Forward Together

Connect with Zian Chavez

LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account

Follow the Movie: We Are The Most Beautiful People

WATMBP Website | WATMBP Instagram | WATMBP YouTube | WATMBP Facebook

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia Anderson welcomes Sarah Crawford, CEO of TLC and a North Carolina state representative, to discuss her extensive work in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Sarah shares her inspiring journey from a service-oriented family to her impactful roles in both nonprofit and government sectors. They delve into the services TLC provides, such as residential care and early childhood intervention, and the critical need for funding and education to support IDD families. Sarah also highlights the importance of caregiver recognition and advocacy. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the intersection of nonprofit work, policy, and the quest to empower individuals of all abilities to live their fullest lives.

Where to Find Each Topic

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Sarah Crawford: A Leader in Disability Advocacy

01:53 Sarah's Journey: From Service-Oriented Upbringing to Government

05:35 The Mission and Impact of TLC

12:12 Challenges and Advocacy in Disability Services

16:15 Balancing Roles: CEO, Legislator, and Mother

22:45 Future Goals and Community Involvement

28:15 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Message

A Quote from Sarah Crawford

” When we're called to serve and we can do it, I think we have an obligation to answer that call.” ~ Sarah Crawford

Main Topics & Insights

🎤 Amplifying Voices: A Conversation on Disability and Leadership

🌄 The Landscape of Need and Opportunity

🤲 Understanding TLC's Mission

⚖️ Balancing Leadership and Service

🤝 Joining the  Movement

📞 Answering the Call to Serve

⏳ 19,000 People Waiting: The Crisis of Unmet Needs in North Carolina

🌍 Leaving No One Behind: Understanding Vulnerable Families

💔 Family's Facing the Unimaginable

🏠 Giving Families Their Lives Back

💼 Underpaid Heroes: The Reality for Direct Care Workers

✨ The Essence of Service: A Lesson for Life

Connect with Sarah Crawford at TLC

TLC Website | TLC Instagram | TLC Facebook

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Roderick Sewell, an inspirational figure who has shattered barriers and made history as an athlete representing Team USA. Roderick shares his journey from an early childhood marked by disability and living in shelters, to becoming the first bilateral above-knee amputee to compete in the IRONMAN World Championship. He discusses the impact of receiving support from the Challenged Athletes Foundation, the critical support of his single mother, and his rise to elite levels in Paralympic swimming. The episode highlights the importance of community, overcoming fears, and the drive to achieve the seemingly impossible. Roderick's new book, 'Iron Will,' is also introduced, shedding light on his life's extraordinary journey. Tune in to this motivating story of resilience, support, and relentless ambition.

Key Points on the Clock

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Roderick Sewell: Making History

01:12 Roderick's Early Life and Disability

02:46 Discovering Adaptive Sports with CAF

05:24 The Journey to Paralympic Swimming

07:08 A Mother's Sacrifice and Support

11:12 From Homelessness to Elite Athlete

15:25 The Iron Man Challenge

18:23 Impact and Representation

19:49 Final Thoughts and Farewell

A Quote from Rodrick Sewell

”  If you want to go fast, go alone, and if you want to go far, go together.” ~ Roderick Sewell

Big Ideas We Discussed

👶 Roderick Sewell's Early Life and Challenges

👩 The Power of the Woman

👩‍👦 A Mother’s Sacrifice and Support

🏊 The Role of CAF and Discovering Swimming

🏅 From Paralympic Aspirations to Ironman Accomplishments

🏃 Running Isn't a Luxury

🦿 Living With Prosthetics: An Everyday Routine

🌍 The Impact of Representation

💪 The Ultimate Challenge & Unreal Finish: Iron Man

😨➡️💥 Face Your Fears, Transform Your Life

🤝 The Power of Togetherness: A Motivational Proverb

✨ Conclusion: Embracing Challenges and Inspiring Others

Connect with Roderick Sewell

@LegacyLitBooks | LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account

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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices