Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast

Navigating Chronic Illness and Advocacy with Kathryn Swaim

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes guest Kathryn Swaim, a PhD student from North Carolina State University focusing on lifespan development psychology. Kathryn shares her personal journey with chronic migraines and her unexpected diagnosis of a benign brain tumor. They discuss the challenges of self-advocacy in the healthcare system, the impact of chronic illness on identity, and the importance of trust and resilience in navigating these experiences. Kathryn also highlights the intersectionality of identity in the context of healthcare and the power of having a supportive community. This episode release is in honor of May as Brain Tumor Awareness Month and offers invaluable insights into the lived experiences of those facing chronic illness and the critical need for self-advocacy.

Key Points on the Clock

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Meet Kathryn Swaim: A Journey Through Chronic Illness

01:32 The Diagnosis: Discovering a Brain Tumor

07:12 Navigating the Healthcare System

15:05 The Power of Self-Advocacy

17:29 Intersectionality in Healthcare

24:53 Finding Strength and Support

31:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A Quote from Kathryn

“Your voice is the most  powerful tool you can use in the healthcare system.” ~ Kathryn Swaim

What Emerged from the Conversation

💪 A Powerful Reminder of Inner Strength

🩺 Your Voice in Healthcare

⏩ Empowerment and Safety in a Fast-Paced Life

😱 Shocking Diagnosis: a Mass in My Brain

🌟 Trusting Yourself as a Key to Personal Resilience

😨 Facing Your Worst Fears

🗣️ The Conversation We're Not Having Enough Of

⏱️ Finding the Right Doctor is Like Speed Dating

🔥 Finding Strength in Passion and the Drive to Keep Going

🌀 Living with Chronic Migraines is a Lifelong Battle

📢 Finding Your Voice in the Midst of Chaos

🌈 Touching on the Intersectionality of Identity

🏆 Discovering Triumph Amidst Adversity

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Celebrating WAWABILITY: A Journey of Transformation with Warren Wawa Snipe In this episode of '⁠⁠Pushing Forward with Alycia⁠⁠,' Alycia Anderson welcomes the award-winning hip hop artist and accessibility pioneer⁠ ⁠Warren “Wawa” Snipe⁠⁠. Wawa, who was born profoundly deaf, shares his inspirational journey in the entertainment industry and his profound impact on advocacy for the deaf and disability communities. The episode dives deep into the origins of Wawa's career, his initial struggles, and how he found a supportive community in the deaf culture. Highlighting his upcoming event,⁠ ⁠WAWABILITY⁠⁠, a celebration of the 35th anniversary of⁠ ⁠the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)⁠⁠, Wawa discusses the importance of creating accessible environments, community support, and raising awareness for disability rights. He emphasizes the transformative power of advocating for disability inclusion and the significance of celebrating successes within the community. The conversation is further enriched by the contributions of⁠ ⁠ASL interpreter Mandy David⁠⁠, who facilitates the discussion. Join Alycia and Wawa for an uplifting and informative episode that underscores the importance of resilience, community, and the transformative impact of disability advocacy.

Episode Flow & Milestones

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Warren Wawa Snipe: Hip Hop Artist and Accessibility Pioneer

02:29 Wawa's Journey: From Dance to Advocacy

05:43 The Birth of WAWABILITY

09:52 Celebrating Disability and Community

14:44 The Future of Accessibility

20:40 Discovering Rights and Resources

21:05 Transformation and Empowerment

22:27 Pitching Sponsorship and Support

25:25 The Importance of Accessibility

29:39 Personal Stories and Family History

34:51 Final Thoughts and Inspirational Messages

A Quote from Wawa

“ Be unapologetic for who you are. Whether you were born with a disability or it happened and hit later in life, you are not alone. ” ~ Warren “Wawa” Snipe

What Shaped Our Dialogue

🌟 A Call to Show Some Love

✨ The Spirit of Transformation

🎉 A Celebration of the ADA

🤝 Finding Community and Purpose

🚀 The Beginning of a Journey

😊 Joyful Inclusion: Honoring Life

🌈 From Dreams to Reality

💪 The Power of Perseverance

❤️ Finding Acceptance

🧏‍♂️ A Journey into Deaf Culture

🔥 Success Requires Bold Action

🦸‍♀️ The Superpower of Inclusivity

♿ Why Accessibility Matters for Everyone

Join WAWABILITY 2025: Where Disability Culture and Celebration Unite!

WAWABILITY 2025, created and hosted by Warren "Wawa" Snipe, is happening⁠ ⁠⁠July 11th & 12th, 2025⁠⁠⁠ in Washington, DC. 

This vibrant event will bring together changemakers, artists, advocates, and allies to amplify the power and presence of disability pride. Experience inspiring performances, inclusive conversations, and opportunities to elevate the disability community in meaningful ways.

Be There In Person or Virtually!

Whether you're local to DC or joining from afar, WAWABILITY 2025 offers both in-person and virtual attendance options so everyone can be part of the movement. 

Support as a Corporate Sponsor

WAWABILITY 2025 is seeking corporate sponsors.⁠ ⁠⁠Align your brand with this groundbreaking event and help make an impact on a global scale.

Let's come together to celebrate, support, and push the boundaries of what disability inclusion looks like.

Learn more and register today at⁠ ⁠⁠wawability2025.com⁠⁠⁠

I'll see you at WAWABILITY 2025!

Connect with Warren "Wawa" Snipe:

⁠⁠⁠Wawa's LinkedIn Profile⁠⁠⁠ |⁠ ⁠Wawa’s Instagram⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠Wawa's World | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wawa's Facebook⁠⁠

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' guest Marisa Hamamoto shares her incredible journey as a trailblazing keynote speaker, dancer, founder of 'Infinite Flow Dance,' and entrepreneur. A spinal stroke survivor and late-diagnosed autistic, Marisa discusses her intersectional identity as a fourth-generation Japanese American and her mission to promote disability inclusion. Highlights include her impact on the dance world, her journey to self-advocacy, the importance of small actions leading to significant changes, and her latest project for the Disability Film Challenge titled 'Killed It.' Marisa's story is inspiring and highlights the importance of representation and inclusion in various spheres.

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Marisa Hamamoto: Trailblazer and Advocate

01:30 Marisa's Journey: Overcoming Adversity

02:28 Infinite Flow: Redefining Dance and Inclusion

05:07 High School Experience: A Turning Point

08:47 The Power of Small Actions

17:07 Embracing Neurodiversity: Marisa's Late Autism Diagnosis

22:24 Disability Film Challenge: Creating 'Killed It'

32:32 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

33:52 Pushing Forward Moment: Inspirational Advice

🗣️ The Power of Sharing Your Story

🎁 Unleash Your Unique Gifts to Change the World

🧩 Embracing Autism: A Journey to Self-Acceptance

💧 From Tears to Triumph: A Stand Against Injustice

🎨 Born to Advocate: The Power of Seven Strokes

🩰 Facing Prejudice in the Ballet World

♿ Revolutionizing Inclusion: Why Disability-First Design Changes Everything

🔍 Inclusivity Matters: Who Are We Leaving Out?

🧠 A Journey into Neurodivergence: Discovering Myself Through Others

💃 A Journey Rooted in Dance and Advocacy

✨ Transformative Power of Dance

🌈 Infinite Flow and Marisa's Vision

Marisa's LinkedIn Profile | Marisa’s Instagram | Infinite Flow Dance Instagram | Marisa’s Website | Marisa’s Email

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia welcomes Christopher Tjajadi, a remarkable individual diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Christopher shares his life story, from his early years in Indonesia to moving to the U.S., highlighting the stark differences in accessibility and inclusion. They discuss pivotal moments of feeling seen, the critical importance of technology in enabling lives, and the urgency of advocacy to maintain and advance accessibility rights. The conversation delves into cultural perspectives on disability, the impact of policy changes, and the power of storytelling. Christopher's journey showcases resilience, the importance of representation, and the ongoing fight for accessibility and inclusion.

🌏 A Journey from Indonesia to the United States

🔍 An Elusive Diagnosis: The Search for Answers

📸 Importance of Representation and Storytelling

🌉 Cultural Differences in Disability Experience

💊 Life-Saving Medication: A Tale of Accessibility

🗣️ The Power of Sharing Your Story

🚀 Unlocking Your Potential in the Digital Age

🙏 Gratitude for Hard Fought Privileges

📢 Time for Urgency in Advocacy

⚠️ Disability Policy: Life or Death Decisions

❓ Could Accessibility Rights Disappear?

🛞 Appreciating Accessibility: A Fight for Freedom

💡 Technology: A Key to Independence

✨ How Technology is the Real Magic

💻 Breaking Barriers in Tech: A Personal Reflection

🧗 Overcoming Barriers: A Journey of Resilience

“[Technology is like magic in fantasy.] Technology allows you to do the things that you couldn’t before.” ~ Christopher Tjajadi

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Christopher Tjajadi: A Story of Representation

01:19 Christopher's Early Life in Indonesia

04:59 Cultural Shifts: Moving to the United States

06:28 Challenges and Realizations: Returning to Indonesia

14:55 The Importance of Accessibility and Advocacy

24:09 The Power of Technology in Disability

27:04 Christopher's Aspirations and Impact

31:22 Conclusion and Pushing Forward Moment

Chris's LinkedIn Profile

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Vicki Loffelmann’s Disclaimer: The perspectives shared in this video/audio recording reflect my personal experiences and are offered in the spirit of open dialogue and reflection. They are not intended to serve as a political statement, nor to critique, generalize, or pass judgment on any individual, group, or institution. I acknowledge that experiences vary widely, and I share mine with respect for advocacy.

In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson reconnects with her long-time friend Vicki Loffelmann, an adventurous diplomat and wheelchair user. They discuss Vicki's journey from growing up with spina bifida in California to advocating for accessibility worldwide. Vicki shares her experiences navigating foreign service assignments in countries like Senegal, Costa Rica, Denmark, and Greece, highlighting the challenges and learning opportunities in advocating for inclusivity. The conversation addresses the impact of the recent pullback of DEI initiatives on her work and emphasizes the importance of universal design, collaborative networks, and continuous advocacy for accessibility. The episode aims to inspire listeners to push for inclusive environments and showcases the powerful role of personal stories in driving societal change.

🌍 Universal Design and Collaboration

💛 Empathy and Education

🧪 Key Ingredients for Change

📢 The Power of Advocacy and Presence

✈️ A Diplomatic Journey Around the World

🔊 Embracing Change and Amplifying Voices

💡 Turning 'Oh No' Moments into Creative Solutions

🎢 Equality Isn't the Fast Lane at Disneyland

🌐 Navigating Accessibility Surprises Abroad

🎉 Inclusive Gala: Every Need, Every Support!

🤝 The Power of Collaboration: Creating a Domino Effect

💬 Human Connection: More Than Just Empathy

🎭 The Hidden Struggles of Living with a Disability

“ I'm not asking to cut to the front of the line. I'm asking for you to just let me be next to you besides you so that I can have the equal opportunities that you have.” ~ Vicki Loffelmann

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Vicki Loffelmann: Adventurer, Advocate, Diplomat

02:34 Vicki's Journey: From Spina Bifida to Diplomatic Service

03:39 Challenges and Triumphs in Accessibility Abroad

12:02 Advocating for DEIA: A Global Perspective

16:04 The Importance of Representation and Inclusion

23:16 Personal Stories and Advocacy in Action

35:10 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes Lily Fox, Executive Director of Women's World on Wheels (Women's WOW). They discuss the mission of Women's WOW, a nonprofit providing resources and support for women with disabilities. Highlights include Lily's personal connection to the disability community through her mother, the organization's summer camp and various events, and the importance of networking and leveraging resources for nonprofit growth. The episode ends with Lily sharing her motivational mantra: 'Feel the fear and do it anyway.'

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Lily Fox: Executive Director of Women's World on Wheels

02:25 Lily's Personal Story and Connection to Disability

08:01 The Birth and Growth of Women's World on Wheels

12:46 Empowering Women Through Camps and Events

16:20 The Importance of Networking and Partnerships

21:07 Future Goals and Expansions

26:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🌟 Meeting Lily Fox: Lily's Personal Journey

👀 Seeing the World from Two Perspectives

🪞 Embracing Self-Reflection and Strengthening Your Voice

🚀 Empowerment in Motion: How One Camp Changed Everything

💡 The Origins of Women's Wow: An Inspiring Nonprofit Story

⛺ When Community and Ingenuity Save the Day at Camp

🎉 The Vibrant Community of Women's Wow

💖 Empowering Women in Wheelchairs: The Need for More Involvement

👭 Building a Unique Sisterhood: Empowering Women Through Community

🌍 Expanding Horizons and Looking Ahead

🤝 The Importance of Networking and Resources: Keys to Success

🦽 How a Properly Fitted Wheelchair Transformed a Life

🐎 Unique Therapy with Horses and Exciting Dog Sledding Adventures!

Lily’s LinkedIn | Lily’s Facebook | Women’s World on Wheels (Women’s WOW) | Women’s World on Wheels (Women’s WOW) Facebook | Women’s World on Wheels (Women’s WOW) Instagram | Women’s World on Wheels (Women’s WOW) LinkedIn

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In this episode of 'Pushing Forward with Alycia,' host Alycia Anderson welcomes 20-year-old wheelchair user and college student Bella Adlah. Bella recounts her incredible journey of transformation following an HPV vaccination injury that left her unable to see, talk, eat, or move. Through months of neuro-rehab, Bella regained a significant amount of her abilities and rediscovered her passion for dance. She shares her story of resilience, independence, and advocacy for disability awareness, emphasizing the importance of hope and support systems in overcoming adversity. The discussion also delves into Bella's organization, Have Fun and Stay Strong, and her future aspirations of integrating dance into hospitals to inspire and motivate young patients.

✅ Injured by the HPV Vaccine at 16: A Story of Survival

💪 Empowerment in Motion: A Journey to Independence

🛏️ Finding Strength on Hotel Carpets: A Transformative Weekend

💃 Rediscovering Joy Through Dance: Gaining Inspiration

🌟 Never Lose Hope: A Journey of Resilience and Possibility

🤝 Discovering Community and Overcoming Isolation

🎓 From Paralysis to Progress: Breaking Barriers in Education

🔥 Resilience and Rediscovery: Adversity & Education

👁️‍🗨️ The Will to Persist: Learning to Live with a Visual Impairment

🏥 Hopes & Dreams: Bringing Dance Therapy to Hospitals & Healthcare

🐠 Just Keep Swimming: The Mantra for Forward Momentum

“Just because we have to learn differently doesn't mean we can't learn.” ~ Bella Adlah

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:25 Meet Bella Adlah: A Story of Resilience

00:44 Bella's Journey: From Injury to Recovery

03:45 The Power of Family Support

04:58 Navigating School and Social Life with a Disability

08:06 Discovering Independence at Rollettes Experience

12:38 Rediscovering the Passion for Dance

17:43 Have Fun and Stay Strong: Bella's Organization

22:57 Future Goals and Advice for Others

26:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Bella's Instagram | The Dancing Duo Sisters TikTok | Have Fun and Stay Strong on Facebook | Have Fun and Stay Strong on Instagram

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In this special episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, celebrating Women's History Month, Alycia Anderson discusses the importance of menstrual equity and inclusion with guests Holly Johnston and Carly Pistawka. Holly is the founder of 'Periods for All,' a nonprofit organization dedicated to making menstrual products accessible for marginalized communities, while Carly is an advocate in the menstrual health community and co-founder of Moon Time Sisters BC (now Moon Time Connections). The conversation covers their personal journeys, advocacy work, barriers faced by disabled individuals in managing menstruation, and future initiatives aimed at improving menstrual health accessibility.

😊 Turning Struggles into Strength for Others

♿ Making Accessibility a Priority for Everyone

🩸 Making Menstrual Health Accessible for All

🚀 Breaking Barriers: A Commitment to Inclusivity

❤️ Making Everyday Moments Easier for Loved Ones

🎉 Celebrating Natural Moments: The Impact of Inclusion

💪 Breaking the Menstrual Stigma

🌿 Navigating Life with Chronic Pain and Disability: A Personal Journey

👩‍🏫 Life Skills Coach Mom's Surprising Family Insight

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:26 Exploring Menstrual Equity and Inclusion

00:51 Meet the Advocates: Holly Johnston and Carly Pistawka

02:09 Personal Experiences with Disability and Menstruation

09:05 Challenges and Barriers in Menstrual Health

11:58 Creating Inclusive Menstrual Health Resources

19:44 Future Initiatives and How to Support

29:09 Final Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moments

“If I can do something that helps another person with a disability, then my struggle has been worth it.” ~ Carly Pistawka

“ It's not that hard to provide accessibility and inclusion right from the very beginning. Everybody needs the same access. There's no reason why we shouldn't.” ~ Holly Johnston

Carly is a physically disabled individual that is passionate about advocating for access and equity. In 2020, Carly co-founded Moon Time Sisters BC, a non-profit group aimed to send menstrual products to remote Indigenous communities in Northern BC and the Territories. Currently, Carly is the Education and Advocacy Lead for Periods for All. She is hoping to pursue a medical degree, and has a Bachelors of Science in Biotechnology from UBC.

Carly’s LinkedIn Profile | Carly’s X Account | Moon Time Sisters BC

Holly has been a dedicated advocate for children and youth with diverse needs for over 25 years. From her early experiences in Child and Family Services, being a foster parent, and to her role as a Life Skill Coach and mother of 5. Inspired by the unique challenges faced by those with increased barriers, Holly recognized the pressing need to address the gap in menstrual accessibility for marginalized individuals, and started the nonprofit Periods for All to help create a world where menstrual equity is a reality for all.

Holly’s LinkedIn Profile | Periods for All Instagram | Periods for All Website

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In this special episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ Alycia celebrates March as Women’s History Month and Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month by interviewing Christina Smallwood, a trailblazing entrepreneur and mother. Christina shares her journey from a rebellious pastor’s kid to a successful business leader balancing motherhood and authenticity. She discusses overcoming personal hardships, including infertility and adopting a child with cerebral palsy, and offers insights on resilience, community support, and the importance of forgiving oneself and others. Christina emphasizes the power of sharing one’s story and staying true to oneself, both in personal and professional life. The episode highlights her forthcoming book, ‘Hope in the Hard,’ and her dedication to empowering women to shatter glass ceilings and embrace their superpowers.

💥 Shatter Any Glass Ceiling: Embracing the Hot Mess

🛤️ The Personal Challenge: Empowerment through Self-Discovery

🍼 The Adoption Journey: Infertility, Diminished Ovarian Reserves & AMH Levels

🤱 A Conversation on Motherhood: Embracing Unexpected Challenges

❤️ Harnessing the Power of Forgiveness, Community & Gratitude

💪 Hope in the Hard: A Life Mantra for Resilience

🚀 Leadership and Entrepreneurship: Breaking Hard Habits

🌟 Be Uniquely You: The World Needs Your Authentic Self

⚖️ Balancing Personal & Professional: A Future Filled with Possibilities

📖 Owning Your Story: A Call to Action

"Focusing on what you’re grateful for actually trains your brain to find more things to be grateful for." ~ Christina Smallwood

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:30 Meet Christina Smallwood: A Boss Babe Redefining Balance

02:57 Christina’s Journey: From Rebellion to Empowerment

05:46 Adoption and Motherhood: Embracing the Unexpected

08:49 Hope in the Hard: Navigating Life’s Challenges

14:01 The Power of Community and Advocacy

18:59 Empowering the Next Generation

19:15 Navigating the Journey of Parenting

20:33 Building a Successful Business

22:30 Overcoming Personal Challenges

24:02 The Importance of Therapy

25:52 Embracing Leadership

28:43 The Power of Forgiveness

31:40 Promoting the Book and Public Speaking

35:41 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account | Tik Tok Profile | Facebook Profile | YouTube Channel

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In this episode of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ Alycia welcomes Anthony Kennedy Shriver, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Best Buddies International, to honor Best Buddies Month and Spread the Word Day. They discuss the harmful use of the ‘R word,’ the growth and impact of Best Buddies since its establishment in 1989, and Anthony’s personal inspirations from his family, including his mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, and his aunt, Rosemary Kennedy. The conversation highlights the importance of employment, social connections, leadership, and inclusive living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Anthony emphasizes the cultural shift towards inclusion, the powerful role of companies in creating inclusive environments, and Best Buddies’ various initiatives, including employment programs, leadership training, and the exciting new launch of a dating app in collaboration with Bumble for people with special abilities.

 The True Spirit of America

🌟 The Transformative Power of Service

🏁 Servants Win the Race

🌍 A New Era of Inclusivity

🚫 Breaking Misconceptions about Disabled Lives

🔥 Adapt and Thrive: Navigating Imperfect Worlds

💪 Overcoming Life’s Challenges: No Free Passes

❤️ The Greatest Force in the Universe: Why Love Matters Most

💼 The Life-Changing Power of Employment

📈 America Favors Inclusive Companies

🤝 Empowering Abilities: Inclusive Jobs with Best Buddies

🍽️ Finding Your Place at the Table

📢 End the R-Word: A Call for Change in Our Schools

"Service is God’s work, God’s plan and all of our participants are part of the beauty of God’s plan, and he has put everybody in this world for a reason."

~ Anthony Kennedy Shriver

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:35 Honoring Best Buddies Month

01:05 Interview with Anthony Kennedy Shriver

02:54 Anthony’s Inspirational Family Legacy

09:08 Growth and Impact of Best Buddies

15:24 Best Buddies Programs and Initiatives

22:07 Personal Stories and Reflections

24:55 Encouraging Corporate Partnerships

29:36 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

LinkedIn Profile | Instagram Account | Anthony’s Email

Best Buddies Socials:

Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

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