On February 21, 2024, I delivered the opening keynote at the Michigan Transition Services Association’s annual conference, addressing disability inclusion. MTSA supports educators, agencies, parents, and individuals with disabilities. Grateful for the opportunity to share “The Heart of Inclusion” and “Disabling Ableism” with over 2,000 attendees, I commend MTSA’s impactful work.
Jonathan Goodwin, once a daredevil stunt performer turned spinal injury ambassador, shares his journey from a life-changing accident on AGT Extreme to his new roles as a hypnotherapist and keynote speaker. He emphasizes embracing challenges and transforming fear into knowledge. Goodwin’s advice to “say yes” before worrying encapsulates his resilient mindset and encourages listeners to push forward despite uncertainty.
In Episode 36 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, retired stunt performer Jonathan Goodwin shares his journey from near-fatal accident on America’s Got Talent Extreme to becoming a Spinal Injury Ambassador. From his origins in magic to navigating a complete spinal injury, Goodwin’s story is one of resilience and reinvention. He discusses his work as a hypnotherapist, advocacy for spinal injury support, and his creative pursuits in screenwriting, inspiring listeners to embrace new opportunities with a “say yes” attitude.
Disability advocate Alycia Anderson, known for her TEDx talks, will speak at the University of Lynchburg as part of the Rosel Schewel Lecture series on March 20. Despite being born with sacral agenesis, she pursued education and became a motivational speaker, podcast host, and CEO. Anderson’s focus is on disability inclusion and workplace diversity, aiming to inspire others with her personal story. The lecture, funded by an endowment, aims to address biases and promote diversity.
Inclusive hiring, crucial for high-volume recruitment, aims to attract diverse candidates. Strategies include reviewing biases, inclusive job postings, accommodation provision, accessible processes, diverse sourcing, bias training, and fostering an inclusive workplace. Alycia Anderson emphasizes the need for intentional inclusivity and ongoing evaluation of hiring success.
Aiesha Robinson’s life transformed after a vitiligo diagnosis, leading her to advocate self-love and resilience. She founded Born to Rise, empowering others through storytelling. Despite struggles with identity and bullying, she now spreads positivity and educates on self-acceptance. Through her nonprofit, Aiesha provides a platform for diverse voices. Her message: “You were born to rise,” encourages resilience and self-belief, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness and push forward.
In a heartfelt episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Aiesha Robinson shares her journey from a vitiligo diagnosis at 18 to founding Born To Rise. Aiesha champions self-love and resilience, highlighting the transformative power of storytelling. Her global mission aims to inspire unity through vulnerability, emphasizing the strength found in embracing one’s true self. Aiesha reflects, urging others to embrace their uniqueness as their true source of power.
Episode 34 of ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia’ celebrates Valentine’s Day with Alycia and Marty sharing their unique love journey. From youthful mischief to heartfelt proposals, they recount pivotal moments, reflecting on challenges that strengthened their bond. Candid discussions challenge stereotypes around disability and intimacy. The episode includes a poignant reading of Lily Grossman’s poem, resonating with their shared experiences.
In this Valentine’s Day episode of Alycia Anderson’s podcast, ‘Pushing Forward with Alycia,’ she highlights disability empowerment. With her husband, Marty, she explores love, resilience, and success against odds, challenging misconceptions about disabled relationships. They share their journey from young love to marriage, emphasizing mutual support and overcoming obstacles. The podcast advocates for inclusive love and perseverance.
In Episode 33 of Pushing Forward with Alycia, Regina and Shane share their journey with daughter Ella, born with Congenital Heart Defect. Highlighting Ella’s diagnosis, family strength, milestones, and empowerment through education, they showcase resilience and love. Ella, a true heart warrior, inspires with her zest for life, redefining strength daily.
