Category: PFWA

Episode 38 – Jillian (Ilana) Curwin: Dwarfism Champion and Advocate


Published: Thursday March 14, 2024
jillian curwin dwarfism champion and advocate joins us in episode thirty eight of pushing forward with alycia

Jillian Curwin, a champion for dwarfism and disability advocacy, discusses her journey on the “Pushing Forward with Alycia” podcast. She shares her motivations for starting her podcast, “Always Looking Up,” focusing on living in a world not designed for people with disabilities. Curwin emphasizes the importance of representation in fashion and media, urging brands to push through fear and continue championing diversity. Her mantra: “Height is just a number, not a limit.”

Episode 38 Transcript


Published: Thursday March 14, 2024
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Jillian Curwin, also known as Jillian Ilana, joins Alycia Anderson on “Pushing Forward with Alycia” to discuss her advocacy work for the dwarfism community. From her podcast “Always Looking Up” to challenging perceptions in fashion, Curwin emphasizes inclusivity and representation. Inspired by Sinead Burke’s British Vogue cover, she highlights the importance of media representation. The episode delves into dwarfism insights, fashion advocacy, respectful engagement, and the impact of her podcast.

Episode 37 – Diva’s Dialogue | Dr. Donna Walton’s Path to “Diva’s with Disabilities”


Published: Thursday March 7, 2024
doctor donna walton joins pushing forward with alycia for episode thirty seven

Dr. Donna Walton, founder of Divas with Disabilities Project, discusses her journey and mission with Alycia Anderson. Walton’s personal struggle with disability led to empowering others through representation and resilience. Divas aims to reshape perceptions of disability, especially for black and brown women, advocating for inclusive spaces and amplifying voices globally. Walton’s story of perseverance, from facing cancer to acting roles, exemplifies the importance of never abandoning dreams.

Episode 37 Transcript


Published: Thursday March 7, 2024
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In this heartfelt episode of “Pushing Forward with Alycia,” Dr. Donna Walton shares her transformative journey from aspiring dancer and actress to advocate for women with disabilities. Through the Divas With Disabilities Project, she champions representation and resilience. Walton’s story, marked by overcoming bone cancer at 18, inspires listeners to pursue dreams relentlessly. Her impactful work extends globally, advocating for inclusivity and meaningful representation. The episode encapsulates resilience, triumph, and unwavering determination.

Episode 36 – From Stunt Performer to Spinal Injury Ambassador | Jonathan Goodwin


Published: Thursday February 29, 2024
from stunt performer to spinal injury ambassador jonathan goodwin shares his story on pushing forward with alycia in episode thirty six

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.

Episode 36 Transcript


Published: Thursday February 29, 2024
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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.

Episode 35 – How a Vitiligo Diagnosis Changed Aiesha Robinson’s Life


Published: Thursday February 22, 2024
Pushing Forward with Alycia featuring Aiesha Robinson episode thirty five teaser in teal and white

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.

Episode 35 Transcript


Published: Thursday February 22, 2024
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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 – Special Valentine’s Episode | Rolling in Love with Alycia & Marty


Published: Wednesday February 14, 2024
our special valentines episode rolling in love with alycia and marty on pushing forward with alycia podcast

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.

Episode 34 Transcript


Published: Wednesday February 14, 2024
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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.