Speaking at Netflix during National Disability Employment Awareness Month was a dream come true for me. As a disability advocate, TEDx speaker, and CEO, I reflected on my journey from a little girl dreaming of the spotlight to addressing major companies worldwide. The experience reminded me of the power of storytelling in advocating for disabled voices and reignited my hope that my story—and others like it—might one day reach the screen.
In Episode 68 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia Anderson and her best friend, Katie Davis, reflect on their experience at New York Fashion Week’s Runway of Dreams event. Alycia shares the empowering moment of rolling down the runway for Target’s adaptive fashion line, emphasizing how inclusive clothing positively impacts the disabled community. Katie highlights the importance of showing up, both in personal relationships and professional advocacy, for creating meaningful change. Their bond and shared advocacy for disability inclusion anchor the episode’s uplifting message.
In Episode 68 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia Anderson is joined by her lifelong friend, Katie Davis, to discuss their advocacy for disability rights and inclusivity in fashion. Alycia shares her experience walking in the Runway of Dreams for Target’s adaptive fashion line, highlighting corporate partnerships like Netflix and PBS. The episode emphasizes the importance of accessible fashion and offers advice on getting involved in disability advocacy.
The workplace has been pivotal in my life & career, helping me uncover my strengths, push forward limits, challenge the status quo, and break down barriers. It’s where I’ve discovered my purpose, developed as a leader, and experienced the true impact of inclusion. National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), celebrated each October, recognizing the contributions … read more… National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)
Alycia Anderson delivered a powerful keynote at Virginia Tech’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebration, emphasizing the importance of inclusive workplace practices. Her speech highlighted the need for diversity in hiring and the value of accessible environments. The event fostered an open conversation about disability representation in the workplace and how these efforts contribute to a more inclusive society.
Alycia Anderson interviews Chris Ruden, a powerlifting champion, motivational speaker, and disability advocate. Ruden shares his journey of overcoming societal and personal limitations due to his limb difference and diabetes. He recounts how hiding his disability shaped his life and how a moment with a young girl helped him embrace authenticity. Ruden also discusses his achievements in powerlifting, his book The Art of Changing Course, and his appearance on The Titan Games.
In Episode 67 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Alycia Anderson interviews Chris Ruden, a powerlifting champion, motivational speaker, and disability advocate. Born with a congenital limb difference and Type 1 diabetes, Chris shares his journey of overcoming adversity, breaking world records, and advocating for disability rights. He discusses self-acceptance, dismantling ableist stereotypes, and inspiring others to embrace their strengths. Chris emphasizes that disability is an opportunity to thrive and claim visibility.
“Disabled employees can do any type of job. Even the jobs we have been historically counted out for.” Alycia Anderson Waitress from my wheelchair, this was my first job out of high school. And I did it well. I could carry 15 margaritas on my lap and zip through that restaurant weaving through tables faster … read more… NDEAM – Advancing Inclusive Employment
In this episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Kam Redlawsk, a self-taught artist, discusses her journey living with GNE myopathy, a rare degenerative muscle disease. She shares how her art, particularly her “Monster and Me” illustrations, helps her express the emotional complexities of disability and connect with others. Kam’s work emphasizes empathy, visibility, and acceptance of disability. She also highlights her advocacy for inclusive design and her passion for creative projects, including her upcoming children’s book and potential TV series “Chair Devils.”
In Episode 66 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, artist and disability advocate Kam Redlawsk shares her journey living with dystonia and Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Kam discusses how her monster-themed art symbolizes her personal challenges and her fight against ableism. A life-changing Google search connected her with a supportive community, inspiring her to use art as a platform for advocacy, raising awareness about disability and fostering connection.
