Freewheelin with Carden: Recent Episodes

Carden Wyckoff

Living with a disability can have so many ups and downs. My goal is to give a voice and power to it all - and knock down barriers so we can roll through life a little easier and build a community to do this together. @FreewheelinWithCarden Transcript: rb.gy/afunog

A Lion Ate My Legs with Paralympian Krige Schabort hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/vwttls

Who is Krige Schabort?

Krige was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. He was an all-round sportsman excelling in athletics, rugby, squash and surfing.

In 1987 Krige lost both his legs during a military skirmish in Angola. He's a 6 time paalympian. Soon after Krige lost his legs he found his passion in wheelchair racing and transformed tragedy into victory. His first professional tour was in 1991, traveling for six months in Europe to race. In 1997 Krige and his wife relocated to the USA where Caron (Krige’s wife) works as an occupational therapist. Krige raced professionally for 27 years and is now developing his new company, Able Sport.

Paralympic Experience
2012 Paralympic Games - 10th (marathon)
2000 Paralympic Games - silver medal (marathon)
1992 Paralympic Games - bronze medal (marathon)

Career Highlights
2014 ITU Paratriathlon World Champion
Two-time ITU Paratriathlon World Championships silver medalist (2016, 2015)
2013 ITU Paratriathlon World Championships bronze medalist
2015 ESPY Award winner, Best Male Athlete with a Disability
2013 USA Paratriathlon National Champion
2012 USA Triathlon All-American
Broke the IRONMAN World Championship world record in 2011
2002 IPC World Track Championships, silver medal (marathon)
1998 IPC World Track Championships, gold medal (10000m)

Resources

https://able-sport.com/about/

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Think Inclusive Education with Tim Villegas hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/ddanbw

Who is Tim Villegas?

Throughout his sixteen-year career as a special education teacher, Tim advocated for the inclusion of students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and systems change in schools and districts. Tim spent thirteen years as a classroom teacher and three years as a district-level program specialist supporting students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), emotional and behavioral needs, and intellectual disabilities. He joined MCIE in 2020 as the Director of Communications to advance the vision that neighborhood schools be the foundation of inclusive communities. He is also the Founder of Think Inclusive, now MCIE’s official blog, that serves to build a bridge between families, educators, and people with disabilities to advocate for inclusive education by publishing news, opinion, and educational articles. Tim earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Azusa Pacific University, and later a teaching credential for moderate to severe disabilities from California State University Fullerton. Tim’s ultimate goal is for people to learn, live, and play in an inclusive community.

Resources

https://www.thinkinclusive.us/author/tim/

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Inclusive Playgrounds with Art Aston hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/pt7aat

Who is Art Aston?

Arthur Aston is a son, brother, uncle and friend. Arthur is the founder and primary consultant of Our View. He was born in November of 1981 with a birth defect called Spina Bifida. This diagnosis would present many challenges for Arthur; impairment to his mobility being the most significant challenge.

As a result of his Spina Bifida diagnosis, Arthur uses leg braces and crutches to walk. He also uses a wheelchair at times. Although at birth, Arthur was not given the best projected outcome, now as an adult, Arthur is a living testament to know what it means to have life and to truly live.

Arthur has a passion for learning. He holds and Bachelors degree in Psychology from Stockton University and a Master’s degree in Psychological Counseling from Monmouth University.

Since October 2013, Arthur has served as Executive Director of Build Jake’s Place a New Jersey Nonprofit organization that creates accessible play experiences for individuals of all abilities (www.buildjakesplace.org). He also serves as General Manager of the Camden County New Jersey Miracle League, a baseball league for children and adults who have disabilities (www.ccnjml.org).

Arthur currently resides in Collingswood, New Jersey. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, writing poetry, reading, attending concerts, Broadway shows, and traveling.

Resources

Facebook: @Ourview4life

Instagram: @ourview4life

Twitter: @ourview4life

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Starting a Student Disability Club with John Scurto hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/pt7aat

Who is John Scurto?

John Scurto, 23, is from Boca Raton, FL and has a form of muscular dystrophy called spinal muscular atrophy. He is currently an MBA student at the University of Florida. He also serves as a Board of Directors Member for a nonprofit organization called Laughing At My Nightmare, which provides equipment to individuals living with muscular dystrophy.

Resources

Instagram: @john_scurto

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Intergenerational Disability Advocacy with Judy Heumann hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/o4jc6o

Who is Judy Heumann?

Judith (Judy) Heumann contracted polio in 1949 in Brooklyn, NY and began to experience discrimination at five years old when she was denied the right to attend school because she was a "fire hazard." Her parents played a strong role in fighting for her rights as a child. Heumann determined that she, working in collaboration with other disabled people, had to play an increasing advocacy role as she and others experienced continuous discrimination because of their disabilities. She is now an internationally recognized leader in the disability rights community and a lifelong civil rights advocate. As a Senior Fellow at the Ford Foundation, she is currently working to help advance the inclusion of disability in the Foundation’s work and is leading a project to advance the inclusion of disabled people in the media.

President Obama appointed Heumann as the first Special Advisor for International Disability Rights at the US Department of State, where she served from 2010-2017. Prior to this position, she served as the Director for the Department on Disability Services for the District of Columbia, where she was responsible for the Developmental Disability Administration and the Rehabilitation Services Administration.

From June 2002- 2006, Heumann served as the World Bank's first Adviser on Disability and Development. In this position, she led the World Bank's disability work to expand the Bank’s knowledge and capability to work with governments and civil society on including disability in the global conversation. From 1993 to 2001, Heumann served in the Clinton Administration as the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services in the Department of Education. She was also responsible for the implementation of legislation at the national level for programs in special education, disability research, vocational rehabilitation and independent living, serving more than 8 million youth and adults with disabilities.

Heumann graduated from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY in 1969 and received her Master’s in Public Health from the University of California at Berkeley in 1975. Her goal in life is to continue to advance the rights and empowerment of ALL disabled people around the world. She is also currently building an online presence through The Heumann Perspective which can found on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

Resources

https://www.ted.com/talks/judith_heumann_our_fight_for_disability_rights_and_why_we_re_not_done_yet?language=en

https://www.amazon.com/Being-Heumann-Unrepentant-Disability-Activist/dp/0807019291

https://twitter.com/judithheumann

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB7pemkbDQYezB6PeDFXTvg

https://www.facebook.com/TheHeumannPerspective/

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Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist

Wheelchair Accessible Van Conversion with Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/pcolzy

Who is Cara Yar Khan?

Cara Elizabeth Yar Khan is an entrepreneurial humanitarian and disability advocate who has had an invigorating career, spanning ten countries, so far. In 2001, Cara embarked on her international travels to work in Ecuador with the United Nations World Food Programme where she served for two years as a Fundraising and Communications Officer. Her many years with the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) started in Private Sector Partnerships. When she also took on the role of disability focal point during the Earthquake Emergency Recovery Operation in Haiti it launched a successful public speaking career. Cara has a masters degree from Johns Hopkins University, School of Advanced International Studies which she pursued in Italy. She is gifted in languages, fluent in Spanish, conversational in basic Mandarin Chinese and has working knowledge of French and Portuguese. At the age of 30, Cara was diagnosed with a rare muscle wasting disease, called HIBM that leads to quadriplegia. Since then she has used her platform to break glass ceilings. As part of her advocacy work, she is also producing a documentary film with the legendary Sam Pollard and is writing her first memoir with Carol Mann Agency. Today Cara lives in Smyrna, GA with her husband, U.S. Army SSG. (Ret.) John Masters and Southern cat, Bubba and kitten Moon.

Resources

https://www.carayarkhan.com/
https://www.hibmthefilm.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cara-e-yar-khan/
https://www.facebook.com/cara.e.yarkhan/
https://www.instagram.com/cara_yarkhan/

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Black Disabled Lives Matter with Founder Jermaine Greaves hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/pcolzy

Who is Jermaine Greaves?

Jermaine Greaves is a creative powerhouse with skills in Event Planning, Marketing, and Artist Manager. He is the founder of the movement Black Disabled Lives Matter. He has done volunteer work for Afropunk and Brooklyn Music Festival as an Event Coordinator. From 2013 to 2017 years he has been organizing a team of 10 people to help promote the festival. Jermaine has also done Instore-Festivals, several independent artists release parties and also had hands-on in picking the talent for the Brooklyn Music Festival. His duties consist of selecting and looking through artist submissions, organizing the lineup, as well as setting time slots for the artists. He has also promoted several different clubs in New York City i.e. (Lit Lounge, Electric Warehouse, Webster Hall and multiple art galleries). Jermaine has also partnered with a clothing line brand called, "Not Like The Other Kids" (www.notliketheotherkids.com); where we give back a portion of the proceeds to kids with disabilities. He is also experienced in putting together sponsorship packages and have several di fferent sponsors and relationships with people in the industry as well as sponsors. I have been featured on good morning America nbc4 telemundo and onmogul buzzfeed and other social media below is the dance video that is still going viral the video has amassed 40 million views.

Resources

https://jermainegreaves.com/

@blackdisabledlivesmatters

@jermainegreaves

https://notliketheotherkids.com

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Hey it's me, your host Carden interviewed by Allison Hare of Culture Changers Podcast

Who is Carden Wyckoff?

Carden Wyckoff is an Atlanta native, disability advocate, wheelchair roller, change maker and adventure seeker. She is known for bringing strategy to organizations and she does this most frequently by being able to come up with innovative ideas which leads to creating efficiencies. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the FSHD Society and works in the city for a Fortune 500 company. Local advocacy orgs she is aligned with include Atlanta Bike Coallition, iAccess Life, Illimitable, MARTAarmy and PEDS.
Diagnosed at the age of 8, Carden has a form of muscular dystrophy (FSHD) which is a progressive muscle wasting disease. Instead of letting the disability define her, she instead transforms the community to be a more accessible place. Her strengths are ideation, strategic thinking, activation, relationship building and learning. Carden is a force of nature! When Carden has an idea, she will turn it into reality.
During her free time, Carden works day in and day out to make the world a more accessible place and break down barriers for individuals with disabilities. She contacts local business management to provide feedback on accessibility and has turned into making the Atlanta community more accessible. She provides awareness for the able bodied community to be supportive allies. She documents traveling with a disability to empower those who are hesitant to face the unknown. You may have seen her family piggyback her on the Appalachian Trail, advocated to make the University of Georgia’s Arch wheelchair accessible at graduation, or her brother competing on American Ninja Warrior for her disease. Her most recent initiative has been launching an accessibility podcast called “Free wheelin with Carden” to share stories of people with various disabilities and educate the public on accessibility related topics. Together we can build a more empathetic community and break down barriers.
What makes her disability unique is that she has experienced a variety of mobility challenges throughout her life. From being able to run and play competitive sports then only walking then avoiding stairs and long distances then using assistive braces to walk then using a scooter for mobility then transitioning full time to a power wheelchair. She sees the world thru a wide lens and can relate to a vast number of disabilities.
She’s always thinking what can I do to make the world a better place. While she operates at 100mph and always is go go go, she makes forming deep relationships with her community a priority. She is compassionate, trustworthy and quirky, yet calm.

Resources

Allison Hare https://www.allisonhare.com/

@allison__hare

@thepodcastersjourney

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Type 1 Diabetes with Tom Lennon hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/ist1oh

Who is Tom Lennon?

Since being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 35, creator and Personal Trainer Tom Lennon decided that he wasn't going to let this devastating news keep him from reaching his fitness goals. Through his t-shirt company, Tom wanted to send the message that you can still do amazing things even if you have Type 1 (or Type 2) Diabetes. Working in a local children's hospital already, Tom would see children come in on a daily basis that were newly diagnosed with the disease or who were already living with it. He then decided that he wanted to donate a portion of his t-shirt proceeds to the Children's Diabetes Foundation in hopes of making a difference.

Resources

Type1lifting Instagram, Twitter, Tiktok, and Facebook

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Tourette Syndrome Awareness with Britney Wolf hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/psoy5q

Who is Britney Wolf?

Britney Wolf is a 31 year old woman living with Tourette Syndrome. She has had a mission of spreading education and awareness about the very misunderstood disorder ever since she was a child and has since found more ways to amplify her voice and her fight over the years. Although some days are harder than others, she continues to push forward with a smile on her face and stay positive.

Resources

Facebook: Facebook.com/oneticatatime
YouTube: Youtube.com/britneywolf
Instagram: _britneywolf
Website: britneywolfspeaks.com

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We Hear You ASL with Pierre Paul hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/mi0pdq

Who is Pierre Paul?

Pierre Paul was born on June 22nd, 1998 in Brazil and grew up between Guyana and Wooster Ohio. As a child, Pierre was bullied for his foreign origin and decided to put an emphasis on helping others and mastering the English language.
In high school, Pierre solidified himself as the number one public speaker in Ohio and placed among the top 12 at the largest academic competition in the world. Pierre then accepted a speech scholarship to attend the number one ranked speech school in the nation, Bradley University.
After a year on the team, Pierre decided to turn his focus to his academics and advocacy work. Pierre graduated early with his bachelors in political science and was honored to be able to give the December 2019 commencement speech. He is currently completing his Masters in Non-profit leadership at Bradley.
Recently, Pierre led a group of a couple thousand to clean up a Target after the riots ensued in Minnesota. Along with this, Pierre is the founder and CEO of a startup company named We Hear You. The company is creating an application that turns American Sign Language into audible speech and is working to be backward compatible to turn speech and text into ASL text.

Resources

Follow Pierre Paul and We Hear You ASL

@WehearyouASL - insta, twitter, and facebook. Pierre_Paul15 - personal twitter. Pierrepaul15 - personal inatagram. Pierrepaul32 - tik tok Pierre Paul - perosnal facebook

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Ninjasitcking Thru the Woods with Professional Skier and Activist Vasu Sojitra (he/him) hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/jup5vh

Who is Vasu Sojitra (he/him/his)?

When Vasu was only nine months old, he was diagnosed with septicemia, resulting in the amputation of one of his legs. Since then, Vasu has not looked back; with the help of his parents, brother, and friends, Vasu has built up the confidence needed to face new challenges with grace, courage, strength, humor, and unwavering determination.
Vasu witnessed extreme poverty growing up in India, and has been living most of his life with a “dis”ability. He looks at these experiences as a blessing; they have allowed him to truly hone in on his ability to empathize with others. He continues to strengthen his vigor through his work in advocacy for those who face mental and physical limitations. Vasu will continue to inspire others to be a positive influence in their own communities by pushing personal limits, putting others first, and encouraging people to believe in themselves and in their own unique abilities!
With the motto of “ ninjasticking through the woods to bring intersectionality to the outdoors” Vasu continues to challenge the biases that go with being a person of color with a disability through his work with the In Solidarity Network and first adaptive athlete for The North Face as well as his previous work as the Adaptive Sports Program Director for Eagle Mount Bozeman and Co-Founder/Program Coordinators for Earthtone Outsideᴹᵀ.
Vasu helps promote Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within local NGOs and organizations. To learn more or hiring Vasu for consultation work please contact him at vasusojitra(at)icloud.com.

In this episode Vasu and Carden talk about:

The importance of an inclusive introduction including pronouns, native land and visual description
Vasu's joruney growing up with one leg
How he became an activist for disabilities and all undermarginalized groups
Adaptive skiing

Resources

Follow Vasu

https://www.facebook.com/vasu.sojitra.athlete/

https://www.instagram.com/vasu_sojitra/

https://www.vasusojitra.com/

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Part 2 Disabled Artists' Collective Kinetic Light: Lighting Designer Michael Maag hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/fjdrsc

Who is Michael Maag?

Michael Maag designs at the intersection of lighting and projections for theatre, dance, musicals, opera, and in planetariums across the United States. He sculpts with light and shadow to create lighting environments that tell a story, believing that lighting in support of the performance is the key to unlocking our audience’s emotions. He has built custom optics for projections in theatres, museums and planetariums, and also designs and builds electronics and lighting for costumes and scenery. As a paraplegic, Michael is passionate about bringing the perspective of the disabled artist to technical theatre. He is currently the Resident Lighting Designer at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. His designs and creations have been seen on the Festival’s stages for the last 20 years, as well as at Arena Stage, Brooklyn Academy of Music, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Utah Shakespearean Festival, Florida Studio Theatre, and many other places.

What is Kinetic Light?

Kinetic Light is different from many other performing arts companies that feature disabled dancers. We are a disability arts ensemble: We are led by a disabled artist; disabled artists create, design, and perform the work; our work speaks to and emerges from disability aesthetics and disability culture; and our work is connected to the rich traditions and exciting contemporary conversations of disabled artists in all artistic fields.
Founded in 2016 under the direction and artistic leadership of Alice Sheppard, Kinetic Light is a project-based ensemble of three disabled artists: Sheppard, Laurel Lawson, and Michael Maag. A roster of additional artists join us to contribute on a project by project basis.

In this episode Michael and Carden talk about:

Michael's spinal chord injury and how he got interested in lighting
Lens shift from non disabled to living with a disability
Lighting and including disabilities
Sensory sensitivities and lighting
Color influencing the unconscious brain and translating into audio descriptions
Kinetic Light a collective of disabled artists and the creation behind it
Disability inclusion and the arts
Universal design and accessibility in the built environment

Resources:

Connect with Michael

@kineticlightdance @longred

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Part 1 Disabled Artists' Collective Kinetic Light: Dancer Laurel Lawson hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/bgmlyd

Who is Laurel Lawson?

Dancer, choreographer, and engineer; Laurel Lawson found that dance combines her lifelong loves of athleticism and art. Featuring liminality, synthesistic myth, and partnering, her work includes both traditional choreography and novel ways of extending and creating art through technology and design.
Laurel began her professional dance career with Full Radius Dance in 2004 and is part of the disabled artists’ collective Kinetic Light, where in addition to choreographic collaboration and performance she contributes design and leads technical innovation, including the Audimance project, a revolutionary app centering non-visual audiences, and the Access ALLways initiative. Beyond dance, Laurel is an advocate, musician, skates for the USA Women’s Sled Hockey team, and leads CyCore Systems, a technology consultancy specializing in novel problems.

What is Kinetic Light?

Kinetic Light is different from many other performing arts companies that feature disabled dancers. We are a disability arts ensemble: We are led by a disabled artist; disabled artists create, design, and perform the work; our work speaks to and emerges from disability aesthetics and disability culture; and our work is connected to the rich traditions and exciting contemporary conversations of disabled artists in all artistic fields.
Founded in 2016 under the direction and artistic leadership of Alice Sheppard, Kinetic Light is a project-based ensemble of three disabled artists: Sheppard, Laurel Lawson, and Michael Maag. A roster of additional artists join us to contribute on a project by project basis.

In this episode Laurel and Carden talk about:

Kinetic Light a collective of disabled artists and the creation behind it
Audimance the app for non visual performance descriptions
Disability inclusion and the arts
Universal design and accessibility in the built environment
Ramps and all their glory
Designing accessible events
Compliance is complacence

Resources:

Connect with Laurel

@worldsoflaurel

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Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.com

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Digital Accessibility with AudioEye's Ty D'Amore hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/kjxyrz

What is digital accessibility?

Courtesy of https://mk-sense.com/: "Just as ramps, braille signs, and audible pedestrian systems help people with disabilities better navigate the physical world, accessible web design removes barriers that prevent full use of digital information.

Some common modifications include:

Adding alt text descriptions to images
Using sufficient color contrast
Captioning video files
Allowing the option to turn off animation, which can affect people with seizure disorders
Designing to support simple navigation and logical site structure

Beyond the disabled population, WCAG guidelines can help all users have a better experience. For example, video captioning benefits the hearing impaired – and users in loud environments or those who prefer to keep their sound off (e.g., when watching on a cell phone). Adequate contrast helps anyone see a screen better in bright sunlight. And easy navigation benefits everyone."

Who is Ty D'Amore?

At AudioEye, Ty is focused on the importance of making digital content more accessible and more usable for more people. He is a leader in the accessibility space and vocal advocate for digital inclusivity. Ty specializes in managing the seamless integration of AudioEye into third-party platforms and possesses an in-depth understanding of the legal and technical demands of ADA-related digital accessibility requirements. He participates on the Member Committee of the International Association of Accessibility Professionals and is involved with the mentoring program for the Rising Leaders of the U.S. Business Leaders Network.

In this episode Ty and Carden talk about:

What is web accessibility and why it's important
Comparison of web accessibility to the built environment
Moving your mindset beyond compliance as a checklist
Pushing 3rd parties to be accessible
Tactile tips for the various content creators
What is AudioEye and what they're doing in the space of web accessibility

Quotable Tweets:

"Web accessibility is the digital ramp to websites"
"Assistive technology allows the ability to read a website"

"Technology gives individuals w disabilities independence"

Resources:

Connect with Ty D'Amore on Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-damore-4829b895/

Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden

Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.com

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Entertainment Industry & Sickle Cell Anemia with Disney Channel's Ramon Reed hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/nzc52v

Who is Ramon Reed?

A native of Charlotte, North Carolina, Ramon Reed began acting at the age of five in community plays through his school, church and with Porch Productions. In 2015, his starring role as Donkey in a North Carolina Children's Theater summer camp production of "Shrek Jr." sparked a more serious desire and love for acting. In 2017, he decided to give acting a real shot and auditioned for Disney’s "The Lion King" musical. He landed the role as Young Simba and toured with their North American Rafiki Company. He performed in 13 cities for 10 months and appeared in four out of eight shows each week. While on tour, Reed was asked to join the award-winning musical on Broadway, where he performed as Young Simba for three more months before he landed his role on "Just Roll With It."
Reed stars as Owen Blatt, an accomplished student who thrives on detailed schedules and being highly-organized, in Disney Channel's "Just Roll With It." The first-of-its-kind series is a hybrid of a scripted family comedy and an improvisational comedy in which the studio audience members vote on the outcome of certain scenes.
When Reed is not on stage or in front of a camera, he can be found singing, inspiring others, having Nerf wars, playing board games, go-karting, shooting basketball or playing with his baby sister, Skylar. He also loves spending time sharing jokes with his family and friends, whether he is at home or exploring the city.
Reed is a Sickle Cell Anemia warrior and is an advocate for those who live with the disorder. Determined not to let his condition define him, Reed wants to inspire others to continue to pursue their dreams – no matter what life throws their way.
Reed currently resides in Los Angeles with his family.

In this episode Ramon and Carden talk about:

Ramon's journey living with Sickle Cell Anemia
Disability representation in the entertainment industry
Workplace accommodations
Playing and streaming on Twitch
COVID and inclusion

Resources:

Connect with Ramon

@iamramonreed

Twitch callmerizzy

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Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.com

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Disability Inclusion = Equity with Advocate Anthony Frisina hosted by Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/nzc52v

Who is Anthony Frisina?

Anthony Frisina has a passion for accessibility and inclusion. He is driven by a community in Hamilton, Ontario, where he was born and still calls home today.
Born with Spina Bifida he was privileged to adapt a “person first” mentality in his early years, a mindset he currently embodies in his every day life.
“Adversity not only builds character it reveals it” and “It’s not about the amount of times you get knocked down, but by the amount of times you get back up” are two of his favourite quotes and they inspire the man he is today.
He is a Mohawk College graduate in Enterprise Business; Office Administration Executive and when not working at Mohawk College as a Student Services Representative at The Square, he can often be seen with his wheels turning at Mohawk College. In 2014, he was inducted into an elite group as a Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction.
When not at Mohawk he can be found in his community representing the Rick Hansen Foundation or the Catholic Youth Organization in an ambassadorial role and enjoys spending time with his family and friends.
Anthony Frisina is truly a testament of character, overcoming many obstacles along the way, breaking down and breaking through barriers, so that he, along with the next generation, can enjoy an inclusive community, a community based on ability.

In this episode Anthony and Carden talk about:

Anthony's journey living with Spina Bifida
COVID and inclusion
Forward movement
Approaching conversations with businesses
ROI on investment
Adaptive equipment
Transportation equity

Resources:

Connect with Anthony

Twitter anthony_frisina
@abovebeyond4u
Instagram @frisinaanthony
Facebook @Abovebeyondanthony

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Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.com

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Retinitis Pigmentosa with Lance Johnson

Transcript https://rb.gy/eakyw0

Who is Lance Johnson?

Lance Kestrel Johnson is a 30 year old transplant from North Carolina, living in Brooklyn, NY where he works as a video editor.
Lance has a degenerative eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa, which affects his peripheral vision and ability to see at night.
While he currently has most of his central vision, being diagonised with a disability made him interested in the disability comminuty as a whole.
That interest led him to create a podcast called The See-Through Podcast, where he discusses various topics of interest with people from the disability community.

In this episode Lance and Carden talk about:

Lance's first interview on a podcast
Lance's daily life with retinitis pigmentosa
Workplace and event acommodations for those with visual impairments
Normalizing medical equipment and devices ie glasses, wheelchairs
Independent learning about different disabilities
The problem with only getting 1 person's experience with a disability

Resources:

Connect with Lance

Instagram:

@lancekestrel @seethroughpod

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Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.com

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Autism and Neurodiversity with Becca Lory Hector

Transcript https://rb.gy/st4bar

Who is Becca Lory Hector?

BECCA LORY HECTOR was diagnosed on the autism spectrum as an adult and has since become a dynamic autism advocate, consultant, speaker, and author.
With a focus on living an active, positive life, her work includes autism & neurodiversity consulting; public speaking engagements; a monthly newsletter, “Monthly Musings”; a weekly YouTube news show, “Neurodiversity Newsstand,”; and being an Assistant Editor/Feature Writer for Spectrum Women Magazine.
Becca has published multiple articles and books about life on the autism spectrum with the goal of spreading acceptance, building understanding, and encouraging self-advocacy.
She spent four years supporting the autism community in the non-profit sector in her work for grass-roots organizations that provide resources and services directly to individuals on the autism spectrum.
Becca left non-profit to pursue dual certifications as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) and Cognitive Specialist (BCCS), and to open her autism and neurodiversity consulting business.
An animal lover with a special affinity for cats, Becca spends most of her free time with her many animals, her husband Antonio Hector, and their Emotional Support Animal (ESA), Sir Walter Underfoot.
Sir Walter Underfoot travels, does woofing engagements, and has his very own Instagram to help share with the world his life as an ESA to an autistic adult.

In this episode Becca and Carden talk about:

Becca's story as an autistic person
Growing up and feeling isolated, bullied, misunderstood
The lack of resources adult autistics
Becca's career and bouncing around from job to job and being bullied in the workplace
Workplace accommodations
Shifting into consulting
The autistic brain, patterns, sensitivities
Spoon theory
Meltdown vs shutdown vs burnout

Resources:

Connect with Becca

Website: https://beccalory.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeccaLoryCAS/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beccalorycas/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/beccalorycas
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beccaloryhector/
Sir Walter Underfoot's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sirwalterunderfoot/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BeccaLoryHector
Neurodiversity

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Stutter Awareness with Justin Lacap

Transcript https://rb.gy/b4lrp3

Who is Justin Lacap?

Justin Lacap is a Filipino-American creative and event professional with a stutter - born, raised and living in Hayward, California.
He is a family guy, flower enthusiast, music lover and avid traveler.
Currently, he works at Salesforce an as event supervisor on the Real Estate and Workplace Services team and an active leader in Abilityforce, an employee resource group that believes in creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, valued and empowered to succeed, regardless of ability.
His life purpose is to use his creativity and generosity to produce experiences that promote happiness and positivity.

In this episode Justin and Carden talk about:

Stutter awareness day on October 22, 2020
Growing up and being bullied for his stutter
Accepting the stutter
His disability coming out story
Creating awareness events to showcase invisible disabilities

Resources:

Connect with Justin https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinlacap/

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Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Access Trax foldable pathway with Co-founder and CEO Kelly Twichel, OTR/L

Transcript https://rb.gy/nlz73m

What is Access Trax?

Access Trax (formerly known as Beach Trax) is a durable, lightweight, foldable and portable wheelchair mat system for access over uneven terrain like sand, gravel, mud, and grass.
It was invented by occupational therapists and inspired by adaptive surfers in California! Each Access Trax mat is wide enough for a full 360 degree turn using most mobility devices including power chairs. Plus, they are durable and will last for many years to come.
Stake the mats down for a long term solution such as ADA compliant community beach or park access. Trusted by over 30 nonprofits around the world and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Each Access Trax panel comes with 1 – Grey panel 36 x 36 x 1/8 inch length/width/thickness (91.4 x 91.4 x 0.317 cm) and 3 – Hinges

Who is Kelly Twichel?

Kelly is an occupational therapist and passionate accessibility advocate born and raised in San Diego.
As an OT student in 2016, Kelly co-invented a portable pathway that empowers people with physical disabilities to easily access the outdoors.
In 2018, Kelly launched Access Trax, a social impact start up that has since served customers across 10 countries.
Some of her favorite accomplishments include volunteering at the first Costa Rica Adaptive Surf Open, being accepted into a San Diego business accelerator, winning the 2020 FedEx Small Business Grant grand prize, and getting engaged to her fiancé Jeff.
Kelly enjoys sharing her experiences with future entrepreneurs and encouraging the next generation of problem solvers.
In her spare time she enjoys cooking, reading sci-fi, and spending time outdoors.

In this episode Kelly and Carden talk about:

The idea behind Access Trax and what it is
Tech specs and design of Access Trax
What Kelly envisions for the product and company as a whole

Resources:

Website: https://accesstraxsd.com/

Instagram: @beachtraxsd

Twitter: @accesstrax

Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Bipolar and Self Care with Leigh Joy led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/grt7le

Who is Leigh Joy?

Leigh Joy is an inspirational speaker, self-care consultant queen and wonder woman mother who helps individuals and organisations turn uncertainty into certainty, self-sabotage into self-care and adversity into triumph.
Her signature keynote, You’ve Gotta Nourish To Flourish was born out of her own challenges as an alcoholic, drug addict and living with Bipolar. Today, she is a recovering alcoholic and drug addict and is 13 years sober and clean.
Her ‘phoenix rising out of the ashes’ story is inspiring, empowering and transformational and speaks to anyone who is facing their own personal crisis.

In this episode Leigh Joy and Carden talk about:

Leigh's story to understand why she is a self care coach today
The 4 types of bipolar and the type Leigh has
Mania, psychosis, depression and what it is like in each of those time periods
How Leigh has been able to regulate her bipolar to prevent manic episodes

Resources:

Www.leighjoy.co.za
Leigh Joy Inspires (Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin)
The Self-Care diaries on YouTube
Me 2.0 Real and Authentic podcast launching in October

Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere https://www.freewheelinwithcarden.com/
Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Disabled Veteran and Comedian CQ led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/q4htjd

Who is CQ?

Born and raised in NYC, CQ joined the army right out of high school as an airborne infantry.
CQ was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and then to Afghanistan in 2005. That’s where he was critically wounded and shot 5 times. CQ spent the next two year recovering in the hospital and underwent over 40+ surgeries and even died twice.
CQ is medically retired in 2007. Since then he's been battling through the physical and mental wounds of war. He started doing standup comedy in 2017 and in 2020 launched my pop culture talk show/podcast “Pop Culture Warrior”.

In this episode CQ and Carden talk about:

CQ's time in Iraq and Afghanistan and now being medically retired
The journey he's faced as a disabled veteran entering "normal life"
What it means to be 'medically retired' and how he is classified
Organizations that provide support and services for disabled veterans

Resources:

https://Facebook.com/popculturewarrior
@WTF_CQ on Twitter
Or just search WTF Nation Radio on Mixer or YouTube.

Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere https://www.freewheelinwithcarden.com/
Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

ENABLE Special Needs and Disability Planning with Phil Clark led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/y1m9uh

Who is Phil Clark?

Phillip Clark is the Founder of ENABLE Special Needs Planning, which serves families in all 50 states.
His younger sister, Sarah, has Down syndrome and is the inspiration for his team’s approach to planning for abundant opportunities today and in the future.
Phillip co-created the ENABLE 5-Step Planning System that allows families to easily create a plan for their loved one. The system includes an online, interactive planning portal that guides families as they create custom plans – from the ease and comfort of home.
Phillip is frequently invited to speak at conferences and organizations across the country where he shares his belief that: Everyone has the ability to be impactful!

Resources:

https://enablesnp.com/

@enablesnp (FB,Twitter,Instagram,TikTok)
Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere https://www.freewheelinwithcarden.com/
Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

"Our Friend Jon" a documentary in memory of Jon Hernandez, a Sickle Cell Anemia Warrior, directed by Edward Payson led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/fj2ake

Who is Edward Payson?

Edward has directed over 200 commercials all over the world. He has directed feature films that have gained worldwide distribution in the horror genre as well as two feature length documentaries, his newest film being the documentary Our Friend Jon

What is "Our Friend Jon"?

Before Jon Hernandez passed away due to complications stemming from Sickle Cell Anemia, he was writing a horror film he wanted to make with his friends. Upon his untimely death his friends (all whom have their own disabilities) decide to make the film in Jon's honor, even though they have no clue where to start. This is that story.

Resources:

Watch "Our Friend Jon" on Amazon Prime https://www.amazon.com/Our-Friend-Jon-Maria-Olsen/dp/B08C26FXLV

@an_anti_hero_production Instagram
Facebook: Our Friend Jon - The Documentary

Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere
Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

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Deaf & Hard of Hearing Literacy Curriculum with Dr. Stacey Tucci led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/z09qof

Who is Dr. Stacey Tucci?

Dr. Stacey Tucci’s experiences parenting her Deaf daughter forged the path for her work in the field of deaf education.
She began her career in Deaf Education as an elementary teacher where she taught students using a diverse range of communication modalities including Spoken English, American Sign Language, and sign-supported English.
Dr. Tucci received her Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, her Master’s in Deaf Education, and her Doctorate in the Education of Students with Exceptionalities with a research focus in Intervention Studies in Deaf Education from Georgia State University (GSU).
During her time at GSU, Dr. Tucci worked as a Research Associate on two federally-funded (Institute of Education Sciences (IES) grants.
She is a co-author of and the lead trainer for Foundations for Literacy, an evidence-based, early literacy curriculum for young students who are Deaf and hard of hearing (DHH).
Dr. Tucci has presented her work and trained teachers at both national and international schools and conferences including sites across the United States as well as Ethiopia, Australia, Taiwan, Greece, France, Canada, and the UK.
Dr. Tucci is currently employed by the Georgia Department of Education State Schools Division and is the director of Georgia Pathway to Language and Literacy, a state-wide public-private coalition targeting language acquisition and literacy proficiency for children who are DHH.
Dr. Tucci currently oversees the implementation of recently passed legislation (OCGA 30-1-5) that ensures all children who are DHH are on a path to grade-level reading in the 3rd grade.

Resources:

Check out Dr. Tucci's work: Foundations for Literacy
https://clad.education.gsu.edu/foundations-literacy-home/
Foundations for Literacy YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPQttd9v438zeX8Ju0RAmrg
Follow Carden on Instagram @freewheelinwithcarden
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Cystic Fibrosis and Meditation with Maggie Kelly led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/d2frsj

Who is Maggie Kelly?

Life, Business and Spiritual mentor and coach Maggie Kelly, brings a wealth of experience weaving together the ancient Eastern traditions with Western psychology in her practice to help her clients create mindful attention to our lives and a full and compassionate engagement with our world. Maggie is the mother of two children, one who is chronically ill with Cystic Fibrosis and the other who manages a mental health condition.
Maggie also owns Satsang House Meditation and Spiritual Center in San Diego, is a certified meditation instructor, podcaster and public speaker.

Resources:

Find Maggie here www.satsanghouse.net, www.maggiekelly.com, www. enlightensd.com
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden at freewheelinwithcarden.com

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Stroke Survivor and Neuroplasticity with Bill Monroe led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/t2hrxu

Who is Bill Monroe?

Bill Monroe is a gen-x podcaster, corporate trainer, occasional voiceover artists in stroke survivor living in Seattle, Washington, bill grew up in New York, graduated from Helena Montana's Carol college, go talking saints and spent time in Boise, Idaho before life took them to the Pacific Northwest on June 3rd, 2017.
Bill broke his Basal ganglia when he woke up with a stroke, that was the last time he had full use of his left side lens. When Bill got out of the hospital, he continued at home rehab and started on his mission to educate people about stroke, help other survivors share their stories and chip away at the silos that divide medical professionals, caregivers and patients, Bill launched the Strokecast podcast on February, 2018 because it was this show he wished he had when he was in the hospital eating yet another bowl of lentil soup today.
Bill works at Microsoft as a trainer, helping journalists use Microsoft products more effectively as they do their jobs in between meetings Bill writes for the Microsoft news blog.
In addition to the Strokecast, Bill also hosts the two minute talk tips podcast where he helps folks become more effective public speakers in as little as two minutes a week, he also runs the Seattle young adult stroke survivors support group.
He lives in the Ballard neighborhood with his wonderful girlfriend, Kathy, his medical records describe him as quote pleasant.

Resources:

Check out Bill’s Strokecast podcast, website, Twitter @CurrentlyBill
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Episode image is a red background and a white brain with the word Strokecast

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Schizophrenia Awareness with Bill MacPhee

Transcript https://rb.gy/t2hrxu

Who is Bill MacPhee?

Have you ever wondered what goes on in the mind of someone who is completely disconnected from reality? Is it really possible to live a “normal” life after being diagnosed with a mental illness?
Bill MacPhee was diagnosed with Schizophrenia in 1987. He was just 19 when he started a pretty lucrative career as a commercial deep sea diver in Singapore. He was living his dream. Five years later, he was living a nightmare: Pacing a psychiatric ward, trapped in a world of illusions, delusions, paranoia and depression. He was convinced his life was over and even tried to make sure of it with a fistful of sleeping pills. But it’s what ultimately led him to build himself back up into a happier, more resilient person now.
He is the author of the book “To Cry A Dry Tear”. He is retired CEO of Magpie Media, which published SZ Magazine, the award-winning magazine which encouraged people affected by mental illness. Bill has traveled across north America to bring hope by sharing his struggles and triumphs with illness so that people living with living mental illness can see for themselves that living a full, rewarding, happy life was still possible after a diagnosis.

Resources:

Check out Bill’s book, website, and YouTube channel.
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Episode image is a book cover for To Cry a Dry Tear by Bill MacPhee

Use referral code 'Carden' when downloading iAccessLife mobile app.

Disability Rights Advocacy with world-class athlete Kristin Duquette led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript https://rb.gy/t2hrxu

Who is this girl boss and amazing woman?

Kristin Duquette is a globally-recognized disability rights advocate, former world-class athlete, and a political appointee in the Obama Administration. She is a five-time American Paralympic Record Holder, three-time Junior National Record Holder, and the former Captain of the U.S. Paralympic Swim Team for the 2010 Greek Open.
In 2014, Kristin was named the global mentor for disability inclusion initiatives under the Clinton Global Initiative University and her analysis of United Nations disability policies have been archived in the Academic Council on the United Nations System. From December 2015 to March 2017, Kristin was the Confidential Assistant to the Chief of Staff for the National Endowment for the Arts under the Obama Administration. From December 2017 to July 2019 Kristin was appointed by D.C. Mayor Bowser as the Chair to the city’s first Multimodal Accessibility Advisory Council. She has been featured in Forbes and has shared innovative perspectives at the United Nations, the World Bank, the Parsons School of Design and has been interviewed on stage by former First Daughter, Chelsea Clinton.
Kristin holds a B.A. in Human Rights from Trinity College and a Graduate Certification in Nonprofit Management from Harvard University. The Clinton Foundation listed Kristin as 1 of 12 people “who will inspire you to make a difference” along with Supreme Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
Kristin is currently lives and works for the fed gov in Washington, D.C.

Resources:

Check out Kristin's media spotlights: Forbes, 100 Dreams Fund
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr
Episode image is Kristin looking off into the audience clapping her hands.

Independent Grounds Cafe: Intellectual and Developmental Disability Hiring with Lorna Heid led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript: https://rb.gy/dsmaer

What is Independent Grounds Cafe?

Independent Grounds Cafe is an inclusive coffee shop based in the Metro Atlanta area founded in 2018 that is employed by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
More than 75% of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are unemployed and many find themselves unable to fully showcase their abilities owner, Lorna Heid, wanting to break this hurdle and solve the need when her own daughter, Emma, who suffered a traumatic brain injury after contracting meningitis at birth, that eventually faced obstacles where one was finding a job in adulthood
Their mission is not only to enjoy a wonderful cup of coffee, but inspire you to think differently about the world of special needs while the doors are currently closed due to COVID
You can buy coffee, beans, or merge and give on the virtual tip jar on their website, independentgroundscafe.com

Resources:

Follow Independent Grounds Cafe on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Episode image is 9 squares of smiling employees wearing coffee shop aprons. In the middle text 'Coffee for a Cause'.

Morgan's Wonderland the world's first Ultra-Accessible, family fun park located in San Antonio, Texas with speakers Brooke Kearney, Jessica Lizardo, and Danielle Henning led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript: https://rb.gy/t2r5c1

What is Morgan's Wonderland?

Morgan’s Wonderland offers 25 ultra-accessible™ attractions, sprawled across a 25-acre oasis of inclusion. From a wheelchair-accessible Ferris wheel to catch-and-release fishing, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy!
in 2005 when Gordon Hartman observed his daughter Morgan wanting to play with other vacationing kids at a hotel swimming pool, but the kids were leery of Morgan and didn’t want to interact with her. Then and there, Gordon resolved to create opportunities and places where those with and without disabilities can come together not only for fun but also for a better understanding of one another. That led to the construction of Morgan’s Wonderland in Northeast San Antonio. Doors officially opened in 2010.
Today Morgan’s wonderland has expanded into Inspiration island a water park, STRAPS an adaptive and para sports program, Morgan’s Wonderland Camp and more on the horizon.
Their mission is to provide a safe, clean and beautiful environment free of physical and economic barriers that all individuals – regardless of age, special need or disability – can come to and enjoy.
Visit https://www.morganswonderland.com/ for all of their services and programs

Episode Highlights

Background on Morgan's Wonderland and where it came from
How accessibility and disability inclusion has been at the core since day 1. It's their driving force
Overview of the amenities of the different parks and how guests with disabilities access the rides
Overview of their STRAPs Sports program which is an adaptive sports initiative
How they are being a leader in the accessibility space for theme parks
Volunteer disability awareness training
Overview of their Multi Assistance Center which is a 165,000 square foot building that is a one-stop-shop model that provides medical and non-medical services for individuals with special needs of all ages in one setting and platform

Resources:

Follow Morgan's Wonderland on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr

Episode image of a young girl in a wheelchair going thru a water ride smiling and laughing. There is a man behind her leaning down and holding onto the wheelchair also smiling.

Caroline's Cart an adaptive shopping cart a conversation with founder and mother Drew Ann Long led by host Carden Wyckoff

Transcript: https://rb.gy/pwqhrk

What is Caroline's Cart?

Caroline’s Cart provides caregivers a viable option to transport a special needs individual through a store while shopping, without the impossible task of having to maneuver a wheelchair and a traditional shopping cart at the same time. You may have seen one in Target, Wegmens, or Loews. It is named after Caroline, the special needs daughter of Drew Ann and David Long. Drew Ann Long saw the need for Caroline’s Cart after realizing her special needs daughter would outgrow a typical shopping cart. Caroline’s Cart has now become a reality. Retailers such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, shopping centers, and malls offering Caroline’s Cart will provide a valuable service to many families in our communities It is currently manufactured by Wanzl a Technibilt company in North Carolina, the largest shopping cart manufacture in the nation.
Drew Ann’s hope is that one day all retailers will provide an equal opportunity shopping experience for parents and caregivers of special needs individuals by furnishing them the option of a Caroline’s Cart. All familes and their special needs individual deserve this shopping option.
Go to carolinescart.com to find a map of stores that currently offer Caroline's cart and there are materials as well to help bring Caroline's Cart to your store. If you are a current store manager, we strongly recommend purchasing one to be a more inclusive store.

Episode Highlights:

Background on Caroline's Cart and where the idea came from
Overcoming the obstacles of finding a manufacturer and the financial burden of developing a product
The strategy behind having a conversation with managers about accessibility and inclusion
A deep dive into which companies have been on board since day one to adopt the cart vs companies that are still hesitant or put roadblocks in her way
Drew Ann's dream for a more accessible world
Rett Syndrome and the symptoms and signs of it

Resources:

Follow Caroline's Cart on Instagram and Facebook.
Follow Carden on Instagram @cardenofmilk
Find Carden everywhere

Special thanks to my producer Jonathan Raz on Fiverr.

Episode image of Drew Ann Long pushing daughter Caroline in a Target branded

Richard Corbett, creator of Wheels2Walking makes entertaining and educational videos for newly injured individuals who now use wheelchairs. He shares his story having a spinal cord injury and how he was able to create a platform for positive change. Subscribe to his YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/wheels2walking, check out his website https://www.wheels2walking.com/ and follow him on Instagram @wheels2walking. Transcript https://rb.gy/numug7

Emily Dukes shares her journey with anorexia, self image, and the journey she's taken to love her body and food again. You can follow her photography portfolio on Instagram @ekdukes. She is a brave little lion. Transcript: https://rb.gy/p2obim

Georgina Elliott openly shares life living with Crohn's Disease and colitis. Listen into her story living with a stoma bag for several months. Her key take aways are to be patient and be as open and transparent with your job/ school to seek accommodations. You can find her on Instagram @georginaaurelia, Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2FwkAgwZHQ&feature=youtu.be or catch her on Season 2 of the Circle UK https://www.netflix.com/title/81044551

Transcript: https://rb.gy/3l3v2c

Today, June 13th is International Albinism Awareness Day and joining me today is a force of nature Philip 'Phil' Mason. Phil dives deep into being Black with Albinism and the underlying white privilege that is often associated with it. Phil describes his dream house having low vision and takes a firm stand on designing a world that is inclusive for all. When this episode was recorded, Phil worked for the Disability Rights Fund a grant making collaborative between donors and the global disability rights community that empowers persons with disabilities to advocate for equal rights and full participation in society and speaks to the work he previously completed along with the celebration day https://rb.gy/2f2tky. You can connect with Phil on Linkedin https://rb.gy/2f2tky Transcript: https://rb.gy/fc3sbt

Zac Campbell shares his journey facing a traumatic head injury at the age of 6 resulting in a zipper scar and embedded titanium plates. Listen in how he vulnerably dives into the emotional side of an invisible disability struggling with acceptance and self confidence. Thru it all, he is one of resilience and is on a new path towards serving others who went thru similar injuries. Transcript: https://rb.gy/heoizh

Made Welcome's Founder and Principal Josh Klipp, CASp, Esq speaks to the importance of making the built and digital environment accessible for people with disabilities. He drives home the point that if we were to listen to this population, we would be much better off during the COVID pandemic. He dives into his journey becoming a CASp and why equity matters.

Prior to founding Made Welcome, Josh practiced employment law for nearly 16 years, specializing in the American's with Disabilities Act. Josh is also a Certified Access Specialist through California's Division of the State Architect, #812 in all of California, and is certified to provide guidance on accessibility in the built environment. After practicing law for nearly 2 decades, Josh left litigating to do all things disability for one of the world's largest tech companies. Because of his experience in workplaces and events, Josh understands the challenges and nuances faced by employers, event producers and venues. Josh brings not only his technical expertise to bear, but also his skill from years volunteering as a settlement Judge at the San Francisco Superior Court. Josh takes tough situations and helps everyone find a good path to a better, happier and more accessible place. On nights and weekends, Josh moonlights with his band, the Klipptones, and is a volunteer Planting Leader with Friends of the Urban Forest. https://made-welcome.com/

Transcript: rb.gy/fwbqzl

Produced by https://www.fiverr.com/jonathan_raz

Voice over by https://www.fiverr.com/johndrennanvo

A single thought popped into Peter Ladka's mind in 2006 of 'I wonder how the kid in a wheelchair plays tee-ball' while sitting on the sidelines watching his daughter play. That 'silly little idea' as he calls it turned into creating the nonprofit Beautiful People which provides children and young adults with disabilities the ability to participate in sports adaptively in Orange County NY. They provide baseball, indoor and outdoor soccer and basketball. Volunteers can be a ‘buddy’ that pair up one-on-one with the athletes for as much help as is required for each player. Tune into the journey behind creating the organization and how it is thriving today. Email Beautiful People at info@beautiful-people.us. check out their website http://www.beautiful-people.us/, and find them on Facebook, Instagram @beautifulpeoplesports, and Youtube. Transcript: https://rb.gy/04svkb

Ever wanted to know about whether attending medical school would be possible with FSHD muscular dystrophy? From medical school to residency to rehab medicine to pharmaceuticals, Marc Van de Rijn, MD defines all odds and successfully has a career in medicine. He dives into the accommodations provided to him during his education and speaks to the timeline for a cure for our muscular dystrophy. Transcript: https://rb.gy/km2nzn

Tune into this week's virtual episode with Becky Curran Kekula as she shares her story being a little person, growing up and advocating for the disability community. She dives into the requested accommodations in school, home, work and travel while breaking down common stigmas the world portrays upon her. Becky's positive and kind outlook on life despite all the obstacles is refreshing to hear. You can connect with Becky at http://www.beckymotivates.com/ or https://disabilityin.org/, an organization that empowers businesses to achieve disability inclusion and equality. Transcript: https://rb.gy/4enubl

In this disability 'coming out' story, Isaac Tibbets, senior at Kennesaw State University shares his story living with Wagner's Stickler syndrome which is a group of hereditary connective tissue disorders characterized by distinctive facial features, eye abnormalities, hearing loss, and joint problems. He describes what an ideal world looks like for someone who has vision loss/ visual sensitivites and how the university has provided accomodations in order for him to thrive. From thinking about closed captioning, high contrast colors, gradual changes in light, going to the movies, glare on menus, LED blilboards, driving at night...you will get just a glimpse looking thru his lens. Follow Isaac on Instagram @just_the_tib

Tune into Sammie Cimarelli from the Netflix show ‘The Circle’ as she shares her experience diving into the field as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) and working with children/ young adults with disabilities. She’s worked with, to name a few, people who are non verbal, on the autism spectrum, and with Cerebral Palsy to help deliver a positive treatment behavior plan so that they can thrive in social situations and excel in school and at home. Sammie also touches on her emotionally triggering story of her brother’s diagnosis with Crohn’s and advocacy for him thru fundraising for a cure. You can follow her on Instagram @itssammiee and watch her on Season 1 of ‘The Circle’. Transcript: https://rb.gy/2oi4pq

My sister Virginia aka Gin aka GingyCat aka Woolly shares her side of the story growing up and watching my disability progress. She’s been such an amazing support system piggybacking me across mountains and obstacle course races. In 2019, she was the FSHD Muscular Dystrophy Atlanta chapter Walk and Roll leader. I’ve been so amazed watching my little sis grow up into the woman she is today and how helpful she’s been at every stage of my progression.

J Rock aka Jeremy Williams shares his emotional journey being a black bisexual born with cerebal palsy and a metal vocalist. He voices his opinion being a multi dimentional minority, disabilities in the media, LGBTQIA+ rights and ableism. He wishes for the world to be a more inclusive space for everyone to thrive regardless of what they look like or what they were born with. You can find his music on Bandcamp https://rb.gy/x4ajzw. Transcript: https://rb.gy/e1drda

Carden’s dad, Kurt, shares his experience raising a child with muscular dystrophy. From being in denial to becoming one of her strongest support systems. Totally a 180 experience from the first episode with her mom Christiane. Transcript: https://rb.gy/cuazts

Brandon used to compete in motocross then life turned upside down at 14 during a race when he faced a spinal cord injury at the T7 vertebrae. Hardship quickly turned into the mindset of how could he make the world a better place. Brandon founded iAccess Innovations and one current offering is the app iAccess Life https://www.iaccess.life/ which rates and reviews places on accessibility. You can find Brandon on social media @iaccesslife and personally @bmw937. Transcript: https://rb.gy/cce9iv

As COVID-19 continues to spread, Carden shares her viewpoint on complications when getting sick with muscular dystrophy, preparing your home with food and supplies, and how you can help provide meals to students in Atlanta Public Schools via Goodr. Transcript: https://rb.gy/vzwdvw

Rebecca, my dear friend and college roomie shares her story living life with OCD, depression, and anxiety. She dives into what it was like being a “normal” kid then opens up about a few dark moments when the compulsions stopped working which significantly impacted her ability to thrive. Listen in to hear more about how we can supportive for everyone’s mental health. Transcript https://rb.gy/hbw02h

Her children’s book “Blue Cat” is a reflection of her journey whereby she learns to overcome obstacles in her life and can be found on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Cat-Rebecca-L-Baskam/dp/1537118331

Blue Cat

Look thru the lens of a parent who has a child with FSHD muscular dystrophy. My mother Christiane Wyckoff shares her tear jerking experience learning how to raise me. From the initial spidey senses that something was wrong, to the years of feeling isolated in search of a diagnosis and then turning a corner to advocate on my behalf. As a 5th grade teacher, she also dives into the process of K-12 accommodation plans for children who need services in order to thrive in school. She is forever my #1 role model, and I attribute my go getter attitude by learning from her. Cue the tissues; you might need some in the middle. FYI she raised an incredible unicorn if I say so myself. Transcript: https://rb.gy/tcadzi

Living with a disability can have so many ups and downs. My goal is to give a voice and power to it all - and knock down barriers so we can roll through life a little easier and build a community to do this together.

Transcript: rb.gy/afunog