Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast

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

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

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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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 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:
⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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 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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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 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:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠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 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

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

Minute Markers and Must-Know Points

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:29 Meet Kristen Anderson: A Global Leader in Inclusive Leadership

03:41 Kristen's Journey: From Chemical Engineer to Global Advocate

08:17 Lessons in Leadership: Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptability

16:09 Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Leadership

19:02 Gender Differences in Career Advancement

20:22 The Importance of Mentorship and Sponsorship

23:06 Navigating Feedback and Self-Reflection

25:16 Disability Representation in Leadership

27:29 Networking and Career Growth Strategies

32:00 Being an Inclusive Leader and Ally

34:57 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Advice

A Quote from Kristen

“” ~ Kristen Anderson

Standout Themes Explored

💪 Empowering Women to Own Their Identity and Dreams

⚧️ The Role of Gender and Diversity in Leadership

🌍 Navigating Leadership Through Cultural Lenses

🎧 Unveiling the Power of Listening

📣 Empowering Voices: The Drive for Representation

🫶 True Leadership: It's About Caring, Not Power

🧭 Mastering Adaptive Leadership

🌱 Rising Together: Empowerment in Leadership

🤝 The Importance of Being an Ally

🚫 Silence Equals Agreement: The True Cost of Inaction in DEI

🎁 Looking Forward and Giving Back

👂 Are We Really Listening?

💓 Listening is at the True Heart of Inclusion

🎓 Mentor vs. Sponsor: What's the Difference?

🔗 Why Expanding Your Network is Crucial for Career Growth

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

Empowering Advocacy: A Deep Dive with Isaac Harvey

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Isaac Harvey MBE, an influential disability advocate, entrepreneur, and content creator. Isaac shares his inspiring journey from East London, living with limb pelvic hypoplasia and other conditions, to becoming a leading voice in the disability community. The conversation explores Isaac's accomplishments, including his role as President of Wheels and Wheelchairs, his awards, and his viral impact on LinkedIn. They discuss challenges and triumphs in accessibility, community support, and the power of storytelling in advocacy. Isaac's insights offer a powerful message of resilience, independence, and the importance of breaking down societal barriers for people with disabilities.

Minute Markers and Must-Know Points

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Isaac Harvey: Disability Advocate and Influencer

02:14 Isaac's Early Life and Overcoming Challenges

05:17 Accessibility in London and Personal Experiences

08:42 Wheels and Wheelchairs: Skating from Brighton to Paris

17:55 Advocacy and Recognition: Awards and Impact

24:20 Future Goals and Ongoing Projects

27:31 Advice for the Younger Generation

30:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A Quote from Isaac

“Pushing out of your comfort zone really helps you grow and become a better advocate.” ~ Isaac Harvey MBE

What This Episode Unpacked

💪 Overcoming Physical Challenges: A Journey of Strength

🛹 Epic 5-Day Skate: From Brighton to Paris!

🌟 Embrace Your Uniqueness: Live Life on Your Own Terms

🚀 The Power of Pushing Boundaries: Real Conversations for Growth

♿ Birth of Wheels and Wheelchairs: Rolling Towards Inclusion

🤝 Feeling Community and Power: A Unique Perspective on Unforgettable Experiences

🏔️ Epic Adventures: Beyond Limits and Boundaries

✨ A Life-Changing Moment

🏆 Award-Winning Advocacy: Real, Raw, and Impactful

❤️ When Strangers Come Together: A Heartwarming Tale of Support

Connect with Isaac Harvey MBE

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

Mental Health Advocacy and Embracing Authenticity: From Social Work to Sheep Farming

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia' for Mental Health Awareness Month, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Kellie Burke, a social worker and expert in trauma-informed leadership. Kellie shares her journey from aspiring nun to social work with a focus on mental health advocacy. She explains trauma-informed leadership, which acknowledges the personal histories that individuals bring to the workplace and focuses on creating a psychologically safe environment. The conversation also covers the impact of workplace bullying and the importance of modeling positive behaviors. The episode concludes with a unique insight into Kellie's hobby of sheep farming and beekeeping, highlighting its positive effects on mental health. Join Alycia and Kellie for an enlightening discussion on fostering empathy, curiosity, and well-being in both personal and professional spaces.

Episode Guide

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Welcoming Kellie Burke: A Mental Health Advocate

01:50 Kellie's Journey to Social Work

06:15 Understanding Trauma-Informed Leadership

11:56 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership

21:13 Addressing Workplace Bullying

30:02 Sheep Farming and Beekeeping: A Personal Touch

32:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A Quote from Kellie

“It's important for us to model and ripple the positive. We need it more than ever because those reverberations help mitigate the negative stuff that's out there.” ~ Kellie Burke

Key Topics at a Glance

🌱 Embracing Purpose and Overcoming Adversity

⛪️ From Aspiring Nun to Social Worker: A Unique Journey

🤝 Empathy in Leadership: Balancing Accountability and Understanding

💔 The Reality of Trauma-Informed Leadership

🌟 The Power of Authenticity at Work: Be Yourself and Inspire Others

🏫 Why Does Work Sometimes Feel like High School?

✊ Standing Up Against Workplace Bullying: A Powerful New Attitude

🧠 Empathy & Curiosity: The Ultimate Leadership Tools

🧘‍♀️ Nurturing Mental Health Beyond the Workplace

🐑 Boost Your Day: Take Meetings With Lambs

🔍 Curiosity Kills Judgment

Connect with Kellie Burke

Kellie'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

Marty Anderson: A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy in Adaptive Sports

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' Alycia Anderson highlights the remarkable journey of her husband, Marty Anderson, in honor of National Tennis Month. Marty's story begins with a spinal cord injury at just 22 months old and evolves into a life dedicated to adaptive sports, particularly wheelchair tennis. He shares his experiences growing up with a disability, his success in wheelchair tennis, and his entrepreneurial ventures, including chairsports.com and the Adaptive Athletics Association. The episode emphasizes the importance of resilience, advocacy, and community support in empowering those with disabilities to embrace sports and lead fulfilling lives.

A Quote from Marty

“We started these [adaptive] sports out of a necessity and a care for each other.” ~ Marsten “Marty” Anderson

Fast-Track to the Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Marty: A Trailblazer in Adaptive Sports

02:05 Marty's Early Life and Accident

03:18 Living with Disability: Marty's Journey

06:55 Discovering Wheelchair Tennis

10:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Adaptive Sports

27:26 Founding Chairsports.com

33:31 Adaptive Athletics Association: A Modern Vision

40:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

What Emerged from the Conversation

✨ The Beginnings of a Trailblazer

🙏 Near-Death Experience Transforms to Miraculous Survival

💪 Keep Pushing Forward: The Power of Will

🏃‍♀️ Overcoming Challenges: Sports on a Leg Brace

🎾 Discovering the Joy of Wheelchair Tennis

🌎 Pushing Boundaries: A Lifelong Dream of Inclusive Sports

❤️ Marty's Passion: Beyond Love, Tennis & Advocacy

🛤️ A Journey from Adversity to Advocacy

🙌 Embrace the Power of Self-Advocacy

🤝 The Power of Advocacy and Paying It Forward

🏆 From Tournaments to Triumph in Wheelchair Tennis

📺 Revolutionizing Wheelchair Sports Coverage

🚀 Innovation and Impact of Adaptive Athletics

Connect with Marty Anderson

Marty's LinkedIn | Adaptive Athletics Association

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