This transcript of Episode 135 of Pushing Forward with Alycia features a powerful conversation with Meghan Connolly Haupt on redefining inclusion. Together, they explore why culture—not just accessibility—shapes belonging in our communities and workplaces. From personal stories to leadership insights, this discussion highlights the role of empathy, perception, and shared responsibility in building environments where everyone can fully participate.
As Women’s History Month closes, I reflect on being featured in the California Department of Insurance’s “Our Stories, Our Impact” series and serving as the inaugural disability-owned business representative on the Insurance Diversity Task Force. Through AB 1140, we are advancing real economic inclusion. This work is about more than visibility. It is about access, opportunity, and ensuring disability-owned businesses are recognized as vital contributors to a powerful and evolving industry.
Alycia Anderson shares two powerful, real-life moments that reveal how quickly curiosity about disability can turn into fear. From a child who excitedly said, “I want a wheelchair,” to another who was warned to “watch out,” this story exposes how adult reactions shape perception. This episode challenges us to rethink how we respond and how those responses influence inclusion, belonging, and the next generation of leaders.
Alycia Anderson shares powerful real-life moments with children that reveal a deeper truth about disability: curiosity is natural, but fear is learned. From a 6-year-old who saw a wheelchair as something exciting, to a moment where an adult unintentionally created fear, this episode explores how early interactions shape lifelong beliefs and how the way we respond can either limit or expand inclusion for the next generation.
During Women’s History Month, Alycia Anderson traveled to Tulane University in New Orleans to deliver her keynote OWN IT: Embrace, Elevate & Empower. Hosted by several Tulane affinity and accessibility groups, the event sparked meaningful conversations about leadership, disability inclusion, and the power of human connection. Through storytelling, humor, and lived experience, Alycia challenged the community to own their stories, elevate their voices, and empower others to create a more inclusive world.
Alycia Anderson is joined by her sisters, Regina and Corinna, for a deeply personal conversation on sisterhood, identity, and shared growth. Together, they reflect on their lifelong bond, navigating disability and life’s evolving paths, and how their connection has shaped their confidence and purpose. Their story highlights resilience, support, and the power of family in creating belonging.
Host Alycia Anderson is joined by her sisters, Regina and Corinna, for a deeply personal and heartfelt conversation about sisterhood, identity, and shared life experiences. This accessible transcript ensures that Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and text-preferring audiences can fully engage with their story. Together, they reflect on growing up, navigating disability, and how their bond has shaped resilience, confidence, and a lifelong sense of belonging.
Alycia Anderson emceed PRIDE Industries’ 60th Anniversary Diamond Gala, honoring ADA architect Congressman Tony Coelho with a Lifetime Achievement Award. After weeks of preparation, the evening became deeply personal as Alycia reflected on her friendship with Tony and the freedoms the ADA made possible. Surrounded by leaders, advocates, and community members, the celebration highlighted PRIDE’s legacy of disability inclusion and a powerful reminder of leadership rooted in service.
Alycia Anderson explores what rare disease patients want the world to understand about living with conditions that are often misunderstood or overlooked. The “zebra” symbol reflects the reality that rare diagnoses are frequently dismissed because clinicians are trained to expect common explanations first. The conversation highlights patient advocacy, the long path to diagnosis, and the importance of listening to lived experience.
Rare disease advocate Lynsey Chediak shares her powerful journey from lifelong patient to healthcare policy leader. Born with a rare skeletal condition, Lynsey has endured dozens of surgeries while navigating a healthcare system not designed for rare disease patients. In this conversation, she and Alycia explore resilience, advocacy, medical barriers, and why patient voices must shape the future of healthcare. Lynsey’s story is a powerful reminder that lived experience can drive real systemic change.
