disability accommodations

Disability accommodations.

What are they? And should you be providing them in your small business?

Join me for an empowering conversation on The Impact Ripple podcast with the incredible Dannie Lynn Fountain as we explore the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, with a focus on disability inclusion and accessibility.

Dannie Lynn is a Disability Accommodations Program Manager at Google and the Founder of Focused on People, where she provides invaluable support to clients and brands with HR-focused DEI strategies.

Together, we unpack the importance of prioritizing disability accommodations in DEI efforts and dive into actionable tips for fostering an inclusive and accessible workplace. You won't want to miss these practical gems that can be implemented right away!

We touch on the language of inclusivity, shed light on challenges faced by individuals with disabilities at work, and explore simple ways small businesses can introduce disability accommodations to attract, support, and keep great team members.

Dannie Lynn passionately discusses the significance of cultivating a culture of accessibility, urging small businesses to embrace diverse working styles and addresses the elephant in the room – the shockingly low employment rates for people with disabilities.

Dannie Lynn encourages businesses to step up and create workplaces that not only accommodate but truly embrace inclusivity. Join us for a conversation that goes beyond buzzwords and leaves you with tangible steps to make positive impact ripples in the world!


In this episode, you’ll:

• Gain a better understanding of the language of inclusivity so that it’s not a barrier to creating a more accessible workplace
• Uncover the challenges and misconceptions surrounding DEI work
• Address the fear of making mistakes head on and emphasizing positive intent in discussions
• Learn about different types of disabilities and employee needs and how a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work
• Discover practical examples of disability accommodations that you can implement right away

Mentioned in This Episode: 

• Ending Checkbox Diversity by Dannie Lynn Fountain
• Keep Your Day Job by Dannie Lynn Fountain – Coming Summer 2024
• Authenticity, Identity, and Being Yourself at Work: Harvard Business Review Work Smart Series
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Persons with a Disability Report (2022)
• Do Your D+I Efforts Include People with Disabilities? – HBR article
• Blair Imani – Smarter in Seconds
• User Guide: A Person User Manual for Working with Me – Friday template
• Book a Free Call – www.sprouthr.co/call

In this special episode of the Uplink Podcast, we deeply dive into the transformative realm of airport accessibility, spotlighting the groundbreaking WHILL Powered chair system redefining mobility for disabled travelers.

Our narrative begins with a personal reflection that sets the tone for the episode's focus: the paradigm shift in awareness accompanying parenthood and the newfound empathy for the obstacles faced by those traveling with disabilities. This heartfelt prelude paves the way for a larger discussion on the inclusivity of air travel for the disabled population.

We chart the historical trajectory of accessibility in aviation, from the early 20th century's scant accommodations to the post-war era's burgeoning awareness and landmark legislative achievements like Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Air Carrier Access Act of 1986. These critical junctures established the foundation for contemporary advancements and the sustained endeavor to enhance the travel experience for disabled passengers.

The episode convenes a panel of eminent experts: Kerry Renaud, CEO of WHILL North America, Curt Bryant, Operations Manager at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, and Kirk Goodlet, Senior Director of InterVISTAS. Each guest contributes a distinct viewpoint to the conversation.

Kerry Renaud introduces the WHILL Powered chair system, an innovative solution empowering disabled passengers with independence and mobility within the intricate airport milieu. Curt Bryant provides operational insights on how airports are evolving to cater to the needs of all travelers. Kirk Goodlet concludes the dialogue with his expertise on passenger mobility, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning and barrier removal to guarantee equal access for all.

This episode is more than a conversation; it's an impetus for ongoing innovation and advancement in making air travel a smooth and dignified experience for people with disabilities. Tune in as we examine the advancements being made 

Episode at a glance:

• Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment: Stella shares her journey of being diagnosed with axial spondyloarthritis at a young age and the challenges of finding effective treatments. Cheryl emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and seeking alternatives if a treatment is not the right fit.
• Using Mobility Aids and Devices: Stella and Cheryl discuss the use of mobility aids to help manage the impact that symptoms have on daily life. Stella highlights how using a cane helped her receive better care and awareness, while Cheryl mentions the benefit of finding tools that reduce the impact on joints and make tasks easier.
• Reclaiming Identity and Self-Expression: Personalizing mobility aids and turning them into accessories can help them feel more comfortable and reduce the stigma associated with them.
• Internalized Ableism: Their conversation brings up the topic of internalized ableism and emphasizes the importance of challenging these perceptions.
• Self-Advocacy and Communication: Stella and Cheryl discuss the necessity for advocacy when interacting with healthcare professionals. They encourage being thorough about symptoms, side effects, and concerns. Additionally, they recommend taking notes, bringing a friend or support person, and having a list of questions ready during appointments.
• Knowing Your Rights and Accommodations: Stella talks about obtaining a letter from her doctor to protect her rights in the workplace. Knowing legal protections for people with disabilities can be essential in navigating work environments and seeking proper accommodations.
• Finding joy despite limitations: Despite the challenges of chronic illness, Stella and Cheryl emphasize the importance of seeking joy, pursuing passions, and participating in activities that bring happiness, including using adaptations and coping strategies when needed.
• Community and Support: Stella and Cheryl discuss the value of being involved in a supportive community, such as Rheum to THRIVE where individuals with chronic illnesses can share experiences, insights, and mutual understanding.

Medical disclaimer:

All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Episode Sponsors

Rheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!

For full episode details including a transcript and video:

See the episode page on the Arthritis Life website.

DRNY Senior Staff Attorney, Jessica Richwalder, Esq. discusses work from home as a reasonable accommodation, how to submit a request to your employer, and the steps needed to file a complaint if your request is denied.

*Show Notes*
Fact Sheet-"Reasonable Accommodation for Employment": https://www.dropbox.com/s/6yb8qunnu5d3dxs/reasonable-accommodation-employment.pdf?dl=0

To view the video of this episode with closed captioning, ASL interpretation, and/or Spanish subtitles, visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0L4INYxuDLx8b8oFTpaXbe42NLmZBKDY.

(The views, information, or opinions expressed during the "Empire State of Rights" podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Disability Rights New York.)

Renowned disability rights advocate and Associate Professor at Stony Brook University, Brooke Ellison, PhD., discusses her journey as an activist, the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, and her latest memoir “Look Both Ways”.

*Show Notes*
https://www.brookeellison.com/
https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/bioethics/people/ellison.php

Memoirs & Other Publications: 

• "Look Both Ways" (2021) : https://www.brookeellison.com/look-both-ways
• "Miracles Happen" (2002): https://www.amazon.com/Miracles-Happen-Daughter-Journey-Hardcover/dp/B011MEQ62S
• "The Brooke Ellison Story" (2004), Directed by Christopher Reeve: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0407612/

Speeches:

• TEDx "The Pillars of Hope": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hA28_fd5e1A&t=1s
• American Society for Neuro-Rehabilitation Person of the Year keynote- "The Patient as the Professor": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3mE9kndUqo&t=1740s 
• Harvard- "A Shared Confidence": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=alf_I1p7bds&t=143s

Follow Brooke on: 

• Facebook (@brooke.ellison1020): https://www.facebook.com/brooke.ellison1020
• Twitter (@brookemellison): https://twitter.com/brookemellison
• Instagram (brooke_ellison1020): https://www.instagram.com/brooke_ellison1020/

To view the video of this episode with closed captioning, ASL interpretation, and/or Spanish subtitles, visit our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL0L4INYxuDLx8b8oFTpaXbe42NLmZBKDY.

(The views, information, or opinions expressed during the "Empire State of Rights" podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Disability Rights New York.)