Episode 44 of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia’ features Kimberly Elliott, founder of the Be Like Josh Foundation. The foundation advocates for dogs with neurological disabilities, inspired by Kimberly’s own dog, Josh. They educate on conditions, rescue unadoptable dogs, and promote inclusivity. Kimberly’s work, highlighted on platforms like Instagram and Facebook, aims to challenge perceptions and create a more accepting society. Her vision for Be Like Josh is to enlighten, educate, and empower.
In this enlightening podcast episode, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Yan Vishnepolsky, an entrepreneur and AI enthusiast diagnosed as neurodiverse. They delve into neurodiversity, its intersection with AI, and Vishnepolsky’s personal journey. Emphasizing the importance of embracing individual strengths, they discuss workplace inclusivity, the benefits of remote work, and the human-centered approach to integrating AI. Vishnepolsky shares insights from his podcast “Human-Centered AI” and advocates for leveraging uniqueness for success.
In Episode 43 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Yan Vishnepolsky discusses the intersection of neurodiversity and AI. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism, Yan highlights how his unique perspective enhances his work in AI and UX design. He emphasizes the importance of embracing differences and shares insights from his podcast, “Human-Centered AI,” aiming to integrate AI advancements with a deep understanding of human needs. Yan’s journey underscores the power of turning “different” into “exceptional.”
In Episode 42 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Joci Scott, an actress and disability advocate, shares her journey from a plane crash to pursuing entertainment, including empowering performances with the Rollettes and roles in groundbreaking films. She discusses the impact of the Rollettes, her advocacy for authentic representation, and her experiences with the Disability Film Challenge. Joci emphasizes the importance of resilience and authenticity in facing challenges.
In Episode 42 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, meet Joci Scott, an actress and disability advocate. Despite a plane crash causing paralysis, Joci pursued a career in entertainment. From early theater to empowering performances with the Rollettes and roles in groundbreaking films like The Disability Film Challenge, Joci champions authentic disability representation. Highlights include her artistic journey, resilience, the impact of the Rollettes, and her commitment to driving change in entertainment.
Disability Inclusive Leadership integrates individuals with disabilities into organizations, recognizing their unique abilities and perspectives as valuable assets. Alycia, a wheelchair user, advocates for disability inclusion based on her 25-year corporate career. She recently delivered a workshop on the topic at Blue Shield of California, highlighting the company’s commitment to fostering disability inclusion. Such initiatives promote innovation, brand equity, and better serve the needs of the disabled community while enriching the companies they work for.
Joanne Lopez, a financial literacy advocate, shares her journey from Trinidad Tobago to the US, highlighting challenges as a teen immigrant. She found solace in banking, starting as a teller at 19, navigating personal and professional hurdles. Now, as VP of Marketing, she champions financial education, especially for marginalized groups, through partnerships and community initiatives. Her mantra: Live with purpose, impacting lives one kindness at a time. This is Pushing Forward with Alycia.
In Episode 41 of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Alycia Anderson hosts Joanne Lopez, VP Market Manager and Women in Business Ambassador at Valley Bank. Lopez shares her journey from Trinidad to the US, overcoming adversity and rising in the banking industry. She emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and community education. Lopez’s guiding principle is to perform daily acts of kindness to make a difference. Follow Joanne Lopez for more insights on financial literacy.
Catarina Rivera, a disabled Latina advocate, shares her journey from acceptance to advocacy in “Pushing Forward with Alycia.” From her personal evolution to her impactful initiatives like Blindish Latina and accessible tourism advocacy, Rivera emphasizes the importance of disability inclusion. She encourages embracing one’s disability journey and emphasizes the significance of accessibility in all aspects of life and travel.
In “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Episode 40 features Catarina Rivera, a disabled Latina advocate. Rivera’s journey from quiet acceptance to vocal advocacy illuminates the power of community and embracing one’s truth. From teaching in the Bronx to global DEI consultancy, she champions inclusivity. Key highlights include her reflections on disability, NYC’s blind community influence, educational roots, Blindish Latina initiative, and accessible tourism advocacy. Rivera’s message emphasizes acceptance and empowerment in disability narratives.
