Disability Empowerment Now

In the final installment of our "Dating with Disabilities" miniseries, things go completely off the rails in the best way possible. Host Keith Murfee Deconini is joined by the "delightful" Liv Mamone and the legendary Andrew Gurza for a series finale that is equal parts vulnerable, hilarious, and chaotic. From Keith's questionable college fashion choices to a deep-dive into the logistics of Wicked, this episode proves that when it comes to disability and dating, sometimes you just have to laugh so you don't cry.In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers on:The Male Thong Incident: Keith recounts his "craziest college story" involving a songwriting project, a black closet, a cover of Mötley Crüe's "Kickstart My Heart”, and a very brave wardrobe choice that left his grandmother... well, confused.Wicked Controversies: The trio takes a massive "side-quest" into the new Wicked movie. Liv and Andrew discuss the chemistry (or lack thereof) between Elphaba and Fiero, and why Liv is officially a "Nessa Apologist."The Emotional Cost of Advocacy: A raw look behind the curtain. The group discusses the reality of recording a "fun" podcast while dealing with family loss, freelancer burnout, and the fatigue of being "on" when you only have enough spoons to walk the dog.The "No Advice" Policy: Liv explains why her best dating advice is actually just a joke about birth control and dogs, and why public marriage proposals are her literal nightmare.The Power of "Crip Humor": How humor serves as a defense mechanism and a bonding agent for the disabled community, and why able-bodied audiences often miss the punchline of the most "livable" jokes.Understanding the "Spoon Theory" in Relationships. Plus: A shout-out to Andrew’s 400+ episodes of advocacy, a preview of next season’s "Book Review" series featuring Liv’s poetry and Andrew’s memoir, and why being a "delightful" host is the highest honor.Ready to join the conversation?Follow Andrew Gurza and his podcast for more unfiltered takes on disability and sex.Grab a copy of Liv Mamone's Fire in the Waiting Room to prepare for next season!

In this high-energy installment of our "Dating with Disabilities" miniseries, co-host Keith Murfee-Deconcini and guest Liv Mamone take over the mic while Andrew Gerza takes a well-deserved week off. What follows is a rollercoaster conversation that connects the dots between physical disability emblems, the ethics of polyamory as an "access tool," and the frustrating societal assumptions placed on disabled men and their pets. n this episode, we’re peeling back the layers on:The Giraffe Emblem: Liv explains why the giraffe is her personal Cerebral Palsy mascot, specifically the hilarious (and relatable) struggle of a giraffe trying to drink water vs. a forearm crutch user trying to pick something up.Polyamory as an Access Tool: Liv opens up about her journey with polyamory, not just as a romantic preference, but as a way to manage chronic fatigue and pain. She discusses how having a "team effort" in a relationship helps dismantle the pressure to be a "perfect" partner.The "Chick Magnet" Myth: Keith addresses the offensive assumption that he used his late, beloved dog, Pepper, as a tool to get dates. He and Liv dive into the psychology of why society struggles to see pure, platonic bonds between men and animals without sexualizing the intent.Crip Time & Poetry: Celebrating the release of Liv’s new book, Fire in the Waiting Room, and discussing why "Crip Time" means a book launch can happen three months late and still be perfectly on schedule.The Small World of Queer/Disabled Dating: Why running into your ex at a comic convention is a universal experience and how Keith’s "superpower" is immediately forgetting the names of people who no longer serve his peace.Instructive Resource: Understanding Internalized AbleismDuring the episode, Keith and Liv touched on how "Internalized Ableism" often dictates how we feel we "should" show up in relationships. Plus: A look into the radical world of neopronouns for pets, the "Capricorn astrology" of over-extending yourself, and a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Pepper.Ready to join the conversation?Check out Liv’s poetry at GameOverbooks.com.Subscribe so you don't miss next week's episode when Andrew returns to the hot seat! Follow us on all social media platforms @disabilityempowermentnow for exclusive content from the podcast.

Welcome back to the third installment of our "Dating with Disabilities" miniseries on Disability Empowerment Now. Host Keith Murfee-Deconcini is joined by Liv Mamone and Andrew Gurza for a conversation that starts with names and identities but quickly descends into a hilarious and heartfelt deep-dive into the realities of sex, aging, and "celebrity crushes" for the disabled community. In this episode, we’re peeling back the layers on: The Naming Game: Liv explains why she transitioned from "Olivia" to "Liv" to carve out space in the New York slam scene and explore gender nonconformity.The Humphrey Bogart Affinity: Keith reveals his "man crush" and why he’s drawn to the unique speech patterns and identities of classic Hollywood icons.The Small World of Disability: How the "Disability Small World" means Liv already knows Keith’s exes, and why that dynamic is both a blessing and a "mind-f***."The "40 Crisis": Andrew warns Liv about the "crushing depression" of turning 40, while they discuss how disability can make you feel advanced in some areas of life and a "17-year-old girl" in others.Sexual Realities & Antidepressants: A candid (and funny) look at how Prozac affects libido, why a "pot of rice" is the secret to a successful queer date night, and why a "human connection" beats a "sexy fantasy" every time.Plus: A side-quest into the "Military-Industrial Complex" of crying over dog videos, the truth about Walton Goggins' prosthetics, and why being eye-level with everyone's "ass" as a wheelchair user is the ultimate New York experience. Follow us on all social media platforms @disabilityempowermentnow for exclusive content from the podcast.

We’re back for Part 2 of our "Dating with Disabilities" miniseries on Disability Empowerment Now. Host Keith is back in the hot seat with Liv Mamone and Andrew Gurza, and this time, we’re digging into the "lizard brain" of dating. In this episode, the trio tackles the uncomfortable truth about internalized ableism—why we sometimes reject our own community in search of an able-bodied "status symbol" partner. Keith opens up about the 20-year journey it took him to feel "man enough" to date other disabled women, while Andrew and Liv share their wild experiences with disability fetishists and the "smokescreen" of dating. Follow us on all social media platforms @disabilityempowermentnow for exclusive content from the podcast.

Welcome to the first installment of our multi-part "Many-Cheers" miniseries on dating with a disability. Host Keith is joined by poet Liv Mamone (Fire in the Waiting Room) and author/advocate Andrew Gurza (Disability After Dark) for a conversation that is as unfiltered as it is exhausted. All three hosts live with Cerebral Palsy, and they aren’t here to give you "inspirational" dating advice. Instead, they’re diving into the messy, hilarious, and sometimes painful reality of navigating romance when you’re already expending 4x the energy just to exist. Follow us on all social media platforms @disabilityempowermentnow for exclusive content from the podcast.

Is your smartphone a communication tool or a portable casino? AI consultant Peter Swim joins host Keith Murfee-DeConcini to expose the high cost of "Silicon Valley imagination." Peter breaks down his summer experiment where he consolidated 7,000 AI programs into just 42 megabytes, proving that we don’t need faster hardware—we need better stewardship. They discuss why AI struggles to recognize speech patterns that fall outside the "statistical mean," the environmental debt of every ChatGPT prompt, and the radical act of "downgrading" tech to regain control over your life. This is a must-listen for anyone tired of being the product and ready to start being the user again.

What happens when your doctor prescribes life-saving care, but your insurance says no? For retired Navy pilot and corporate executive Frank Lobb, the answer was a tragedy that sparked a twenty-year crusade. After his wife was denied care that he was barred from paying for out-of-pocket, Frank used his background in federal air compliance and law to deconstruct the "Big Lie" of the American healthcare insurance industry. In this episode of Disability Empowerment Now, Frank sits down with host Keith Murfee- DeConcini to expose the black-letter law provisions that exist in almost every in-network contract in the country. He explains how insurance companies "ration" care by contractually barring hospitals from accepting compensation once coverage is denied—leaving patients trapped. Frank shares the "magic words" he uses on hospital intake forms to protect his family and discusses why trillions of dollars in liability keep the legal and political systems silent. Whether you are fighting a bill or preparing for a procedure, this conversation is a masterclass in patient empowerment, legal standing, and reclaiming the power your doctor—and only your doctor—is supposed to have.

I’m coming for you like a junkie." Keith and Alaina aren't holding back as they break down the "Dirty Boy Bangers" of Depeche Mode’s later catalog. This episode covers the gritty, bluesy industrialism of Soothe My Soul, the "rushing beat" of So Much Love, and the complicated marriage of simple lyrics and complex sounds in Come Back. We also pause for a "neighborhood watch" report from a very specific crow before diving into the sweeping, haunting compositions of Memento Mori—the greatest concept album since Songs of Faith and Devotion.

After the near-destruction of the Devotional Tour, Depeche Mode returned with Ultra—an album Keith and Alaina describe as a "masterpiece of re-emergence." In this episode, we explore the raw, "stitched-together" vocals of a recovering Dave Gahan and the spiritual songwriting of Martin Gore. From the "sleazy swag" of It’s No Good to the breathtaking maturity of The Bottom Line, we discuss how the band turned their personal darkness into a "listenable" survival guide for the soulful listener.

In the second installment of our "Love and Devotion" mini-series, Keith Murfee-DeConcini and Alaina Morin dive into the dark, industrial heart of mid-80s Depeche Mode. From the "seedy" power dynamics of "Master and Servant" to the raw, naked vulnerability of "Somebody," we explore why Depeche Mode is the ultimate "guy band" for the emotionally complex. We discuss role reversals, the "fatherly" anxiety hidden in "A Question of Time," and why Martin Gore’s songwriting captures the thin line between romantic devotion and total obsession.

In this raw and essential conversation, host Keith Murfee- DeConcini sits down with poet and author Jessica MacLean. Jessica shares her lifelong journey navigating Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and spina bifida occulta—invisible conditions that affect every system in her body. From experiencing her first migraine at age seven to surviving a literal broken back caused by a simple change in position, Jessica details the profound physical toll of living with a tissue connectivity disorder. The discussion takes a harrowing turn as Jessica recounts her recent experience being "wrongfully Titled" (Title 36), a legal process that stripped her of her rights and placed her in a psychiatric facility ill-equipped to handle her complex medical needs. We explore the dangerous gap between mental health protocols and physical disability awareness, the trauma of medical institutionalization, and how the "positive vibes only" expectation from society ignores the reality of chronic suffering. Despite the systemic failures and constant pain, Jessica shares how she finds sanctuary in the creative community of Prescott, Arizona—using poetry, music, and the wildlife in her yard to find "wild care where there is no cure."

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Adam Chalom and Rabbi Jodi Kornfeld, editors of Contemporary Humanistic Judaism. We explore the bold concept of identifying as "secular and Jewish" at the same time—proving that heritage is about more than just dogma. The Rabbis pull back the curtain on how this movement empowers individuals to take ownership of their culture. From using "Bimitzvah" as a gender-neutral rite of passage to modifying traditional ceremonies for those with mobility and sensory challenges, we discuss how the humanistic lens turns obstacles into solutions. It’s a conversation about saying what you mean, meaning what you say, and making sure everyone has a seat at the table—literally.

In this episode, host Keith Murfee Deconcini welcomes the "dynamic duo of children's health care," Jared Perkins and Gemma Thomitz, from the Children's Clinics in Tucson, Arizona. Jared and Gemma detail the clinic's evolution from a 1940s polio clinic into a cutting-edge Multi-Specialty Interdisciplinary Clinic (MSIC)—a rare model where comprehensive care, primary care, and Arizona's largest pediatric rehab program are all offered under one roof.

Anita Hollander, veteran performer and disability advocate, joins the show to share the profound philosophy that guides her life and work. She discusses the honor of receiving the Harold Russell Award, reflecting on a lifetime dedicated to representation and 'pushing the needle forward' for the disability community. Hear her wonderful stories about being presented the award by Sean Astin and the inspiration she drew from her late father. Plus, Anita offers a sneak peek into her exciting upcoming projects, including her involvement with the powerful new musical The Rise, set to premiere in Paris.

Season 4 Bonus Episode 6 Jasmine Singh is the Bestselling Author of “Saved By Depeche Mode: An Epic Journey of Healing & Remission Through Music.” After spending over 20 fulfilling years in a successful sales career—and living with a disability for more than 40 years— she shifted her focus to healing in all areas of her life: physical, emotional and spiritual. This is the second time she has required the support of Social Security Disability to give her body the time and space it needed to recover and rebuild. She has undergone 36 surgeries in the last 30 years, each […]

Season 4 Bonus Episode with Alaina Morin Part 3 Keith is a huge fan of Depeche Mode and along with superfan Alaina Morin, they discuss the genius that is their music and the geniuses behind their music. They go through the band’s albums and discuss the cultural importance of their work. Alaina Morin works with adults with intellectual disabilities through Community Case Management and as an Ed Technology in special education. In her spare time Alaina enjoys puzzling, concerts, traveling, creating ideas for stories and long discussions about anything. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 […]

Season 4 Bonus Episode with Alaina Morin Part 2 Keith is a huge fan of Depeche Mode and along with superfan Alaina Morin, they discuss the genius that is their music and the geniuses behind their music. They go through the band’s albums and discuss the cultural importance of their work. Alaina Morin works with adults with intellectual disabilities through Community Case Management and as an Ed Technology in special education. In her spare time Alaina enjoys puzzling, concerts, traveling, creating ideas for stories and long discussions about anything. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 […]

Season 4 Bonus Episode with Alaina Morin Keith is a huge fan of Depeche Mode and along with superfan Alaina Morin, they discuss the genius that is their music and the geniuses behind their music. They go through the band’s albums and discuss the cultural importance of their work. Alaina Morin works with adults with intellectual disabilities through Community Case Management and as an Ed Technology in special education. In her spare time Alaina enjoys puzzling, concerts, traveling, creating ideas for stories and long discussions about anything. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to […]

Season 4 Bonus episode 2 Part 2 Dr. Yvette Pegues is renowned for her captivating and insightful presentations that resonate with diverse audiences. Her ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and evidence-based insights makes her a sought-after speaker at conferences, corporate events, and community gatherings. As a keynote speaker, she addresses critical topics such as: Inclusive Innovation and Accessibility, Exploring how technology and innovative solutions can bridge gaps and enhance the lives of people with disabilities, Disability Advocacy in the Workplace, Navigating Life Post-Rehabilitation and Empowering Disabled Communities through Technology. Keith and Dr. Pegues talk about her journey […]

Season 4 Bonus episode 2 Part 1 Dr. Yvette Pegues is renowned for her captivating and insightful presentations that resonate with diverse audiences. Her ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and evidence-based insights makes her a sought-after speaker at conferences, corporate events, and community gatherings. As a keynote speaker, she addresses critical topics such as: Inclusive Innovation and Accessibility, Exploring how technology and innovative solutions can bridge gaps and enhance the lives of people with disabilities, Disability Advocacy in the Workplace, Navigating Life Post-Rehabilitation and Empowering Disabled Communities through Technology. Keith and Dr. Pegues talk about her journey […]

Cydian Kauffman works at Pure Water Northwest and is an expert in Water. His work has always been about finding solutions that benefit everyone involved, whether through sales growth, operational improvement, or conflict resolution. Keith and Cydian talk about the importance of water, water conservation and water accessibility. They discuss a variety of topics surrounding water conservation. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Jim Click is well known in Tucson, Arizona for his car dealerships and his generosity as a philanthropist. His giving spans a gamut of causes, from sponsoring Little League teams to supporting the symphony or funding education for low-income high schoolers. Click credits his father and his great-uncle, Holmes Paul Tuttle, for teaching him the value of giving back. Keith and Jim talk about philanthropy and Click’s legacy in Tucson. They talk about supporting disability causes and the importance of supporting the disability community. They talk about the future of giving and the legacy of both of their families. Disability […]

Steven Verdile works at Corporate Communications at NBCUniversal and is the Editor-in-Chief at The Squeaky Wheel. Based in NYC, Steven’s work includes copy-writing, humor writing, web design, print design, social media content, and brand identity. As a lifelong fan of consuming stuff, he enjoys working on projects related to film, comedy and entertainment. Keith and Steven talk about working in the industry, balancing advocacy with professional achievements and working on The Squeaky Wheel. They talk about the joys of comedy writing and their shared interests in comedy. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated […]

Elaine Carroll is a program manager at Google and hard of hearing. She is a Googler for 10+ years and a Program Manager for Google Calendar. With a passion for promoting a healthy attitude towards disabilities and neurodiversities, she is also the Lead for the Regional EMEA Disability Alliance Steering Committee, growing the community within the region, and working to improve disability inclusion and rights of People with Disabilities. Keith and Elaine talk about working for Google, and the importance of diversity. She talks to Keith about her disability journey and the importance of advocacy in the world. They talk […]

Gage Kern is an Autistic speaker and podcaster. He shares Autistic voices and those that have a beautiful message to give that Don’t get heard through his podcast “Autismtalk”. Keith and Gage talk about podcasting and the importance of sharing stories with the world. They discuss “Autismtalk” and its origins. They talk about Autism awareness and Gage’s life story that led him to create the podcast. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Jennifer Purcell is the Host of the Podcast: Living With An Invisible Learning Challenge. Jennifer Purcell, also known as Ever-Changing Butterfly, is a podcast creator, author and advocate living with nonverbal learning disability (NLD). She hosts “Living with an Invisible Learning Challenge” to raise awareness and foster community. A dedicated dog mom, administrative assistant, and tech/social media support specialist, she also lives independently and helps others bring their podcast and website ideas to life. Keith and Jennifer talk about her podcast, the production process and audience engagement. They discuss the importance of advocacy for disabilities and the importance of podcasts […]

Jennifer Gasner is the author of “My Unexpected Life: Finding Balance Beyond My Diagnosis.” Gasner received her BA in English from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and her MS in recreation from Western Illinois University. Her work with Independent Living Centers enabled her to learn about various disability programs throughout the country and ignited her passion for disability culture. She relocated to San Diego, California, on her own at the age of twenty-eight. As a mentor for What’s Next, a program for youths with disabilities, and as co-chair of UC San Diego’s Staff Association for staff with disabilities, Jennifer solidified her […]

Eddie Cash is the inspiring 2024 Dancing With the Blind Champion. Eddie’s love for basketball started at a young age—and although he lost his vision at 15 due to a bone overgrowth that crushed his optic nerve, his passion for the game never faded. Today, Eddie gives back as a DJ for the Boys & Girls Varsity basketball teams at his alma mater, Kearny High School. In 2023, Eddie was invited by Solo to the Kwanzaa celebration at NJPAC, where he was introduced to Eyes Like Mine Inc.—a connection that changed his life. With Solo as his dance partner, Eddie […]

Sara Gullihur-Bradford is an Entrepreneur, Author, Talk Show Host, Autism Advocate, Global Speaker and Trainer. Sara is a late diagnosed AuDHD woman and a passionate advocate. She is the founder of SJ Childs Global Network Non-Profit, an organization that positively impacts the lives of many families. Sara is also the CEO of SJ Childs LLC, an autism consulting business that provides support to families. Sara and Keith talk about SJ Childs Global Network and her podcast. They talk about the interview process and share insights into unique experiences. They talk family, friends and the love of talking to people. […]

Kurt and Jordan are back! Kurt Yaeger is an American actor and disability advocate known for his inspiring story of resilience and determination. In 2006, his life took a dramatic turn when he was involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Despite this life-altering event, Kurt Yaeger continued to pursue his passion for acting and quickly established himself as a talented actor in the entertainment industry. He’s best known for his roles in popular TV shows like “Sons of Anarchy” and “Quarry” and “NCIS.” His acting career has also included roles in films […]

Elsie Rogers is an Author, Entrepreneur, and Business Change/Project Management Consultant & Speaker. She has worked in business change and transformation for more than 25 years. This has involved implementing projects across banking and finance, insurance, retail, the payment card industry, and government sector all in the UK. She has led both offshore and onshore teams in implementing Program Management Office Service offerings for transformation programs worth £20m-£1bn. Keith and Elsie talk about her book and life experience. They discuss parenting and talking to others about better parenting. They talk about life experience and how they have grown as disability […]

Season 4 Episode 33 Tasha Hickling is the founder of Indigo Hub, a certified Neurodivergent Life coach, indigo diaries podcast host and soon to be a qualified Somatic Trauma Informed Therapist. With ADHD diagnosed in her 20s, autistic diagnosed at 30 and other co-existing conditions, she is neurodivergent herself. Her experiences have shaped her into who she is today. Keith and Tasha talk about her podcast journey, therapy and the importance of talking to people and her journey living with ADHD. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and […]

Renee started her impressive career 35 years ago as one of the pioneering female outside industrial salespeople. Fueled by a unique blend of passion and determination, she took the entrepreneurial leap five years later, starting her own company with just $3,000 and a high- interest credit card. This bold move marked the beginning of a successful journey, during which Renee developed a sustainable business model by building long-term relationships and adopting a servant’s mentality across the globe. In 2019, Renee sold her industrial fastener company, but her passion for entrepreneurship persisted. She shifted her focus to consulting, speaking, and writing, […]

Gretchen Vogel is an Executive Assistant to the CEO and Springboard Consulting Motivational Keynote Speaker. Gretchen Vogel was born with a myriad of disabilities, none of which stops her from independently living life to the fullest. Gretchen is currently employed at Springboard Consulting. In her tenure, she has served in many capacities and currently, as the Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer. Her previous experience includes roles at Prudential Financial and YAI Roosevelt Children’s Center. Nadine Vogel is the CEO of Springboard Consulting. Springboard works with corporations around the world to mainstream people with disabilities in the global workforce, […]

Adam R. Lalor, Ph.D. is an educational psychologist and Vice President for Neurodiversity Research and Innovation at Landmark College. His research focuses on the transition and success of disabled college students to and through postsecondary education. Mark Thurman is the director of the Centers for Diversity and Inclusion at Landmark college and the Men’s Head Basketball Coach. Keith, Adam and Mark talk about Landmark College and its importance in the disability community. They talk about the programs and experiences each has had at Landmark and the opportunities Landmark College offers for students. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal […]

Leo Ricketts trained in relational transactional analysis and has been practicing since 2014. Eight years later, aged 55 he was diagnosed autistic having suspected as much for years. This came with a bonus ADHD diagnosis which surprised precisely no-one in his personal life. He has what his psychologist described as a very AuDHD CV, having had careers as a drummer, DJ, journalist, radio presenter, graphic designer, digital producer and project manager. In his work as a therapist he feels he has come home and with a practice of 95% neurodivergent people, has found his tribe. As well as his client […]

Season 4 Episode 28 Ben Mattlin is a Los Angeles-based Senior Writer at Financial Advisor magazine and the author, most recently, of Disability Pride: Dispatches from a Post-ADA World (2022). His work has appeared in Time magazine, the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Newsweek, CNN.com, Self, New Mobility, and on NPR’s “Morning Edition.” Other credits include the Mark Taper Forum, Blonde and Brunette Productions, and the children’s television program Biker Mice from Mars. A complete list and links to clips can be found at BenMattlin.com. He was born in New York City in […]

Season 4 Episode 27 Erik Fuhrer is a queer, nonbinary poet, playwright and scarf tie aficionado whose fashion sense is part Buffy Summers, part Blanch Devereux, and part the lion from The Wizard of Oz. Their most recent book, Gellar Studies (Spuyten Duyvil, 2023) hailed as “exceptionally delectable and devastating” by Addie Tsai, creatively engages with the work of icon Sarah Michelle Gellar to unfold personal narratives of queer trauma. Keith and Erik talk about their inspirations, the writing process and reflect on their shared memories from Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright

Season 4 Special Report 3 This Special Report focuses on the state of the disability community in current times, 2025. Keith will talk with guests about their experiences and how they can navigate the struggles the new political world has laid down. For this special report Keith talks with Chris Desborough MSW, the Community Outreach Director for the city of Tucson and Director of Disability Pride Tucson. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Heather C. Markham is an engineer, assistive technology professional, public speaker, competitive Para Surfer, educator, ADA architectural barriers specialist, golfer, and award-winning international photographer. Her company, Making Waves for Good, launched in 2018 with three goals in mind: Provide ADA code compliance and usability consulting to businesses–because accessibility is more than just ramps; Publish authors with an authentic voice; Curate a gallery of fine art photography crafted with love that offer a new perspective on the Unseen. Heather and her husband currently live in central Arizona’s wine tourism capital, with her deaf super-snuggly Maine coon cat and his deaf dachshund […]

Season 4 Episode 25 Nicole D’Angelo, Rebekah Greer Melocik and Jacob Yandura return to talk about the success of their Broadway play “How to Dance in Ohio.” They are all professionals who have contributed to the play in various forms and they are all thrilled by the success of their play. Keith talks to the crew about the future of the show, how they could make a sequel and messages from the audience that stuck with each of them. For more with Nicole D’Angelo, Rebekah Greer Melocik and Jacob Yandura listen to the “How to Dance in Ohio” mini-series. […]

Season 4 Episode 24, 100th Episode Disability Empowerment Now is celebrating its 100th episode with Former Senator Tom Harkin. Thomas Richard Harkin is an American lawyer, author and politician who served as a United States senator from Iowa from 1985 to 2015. A member of the Democratic Party, he previously was the U.S. representative for Iowa’s 5th congressional district from 1975 to 1985. He is the longest-serving senator to spend the entire tenure as a state’s junior senator. Former Senator Harkin is most known for introducing the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into the Senate. Harkin delivered part of a […]

Season 4 Episode 23 Kat Stratford, who is Deaf but uses hearing aids, is a former candidate for state house, and currently works for the City of Tucson in addressing the emergency of homelessness and housing insecurity. Keith and Kat talk about her recent breakup, how she has overcome struggles and how her life has changed in the last few months. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Season 4 Special Report 2 This Special Report focuses on the state of the disability community in current times, 2025. Keith will talk with guests about their experiences and how they can navigate the struggles the new political world has laid down. For this special report Keith talks with Chris Desborough MSW, the Community Outreach Director for the city of Tucson and Director of Disability Pride Tucson. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Hannah Woelke has provided disability related services in Tucson for over a decade. Having witnessed the impact of missing or inadequate sex education in the disability community, Hannah decided to study to be a sexuality educator. She built on her BA in Psychology and Certificate in Adult Education by attending the Institute for Sex Education & Enlightenment but she was providing resources and training to the community on topics related to sexuality years before she began these studies. Hannah has presented for numerous local parent groups and service providers such as Pilot Parents, the Jewish Community Center, Beacon Group, and […]

Hannah Woelke has provided disability related services in Tucson for over a decade. Having witnessed the impact of missing or inadequate sex education in the disability community, Hannah decided to study to be a sexuality educator. She built on her BA in Psychology and Certificate in Adult Education by attending the Institute for Sex Education & Enlightenment but she was providing resources and training to the community on topics related to sexuality years before she began these studies. Hannah has presented for numerous local parent groups and service providers such as Pilot Parents, the Jewish Community Center, Beacon Group, and […]

This Special Report focuses on the state of the disability community in current times, 2025. Keith will talk with guests about their experiences and how they can navigate the struggles the new political world has laid down. For this special report Keith talks with Chris Desborough, the Community Outreach Director for the city of Tucson and Director of Disability Pride Tucson. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

lABLEd Podcast, the show about disability, illness and difference is a UK based indie podcast that puts the power of definition back in the hands of those normally defined by their health or conditions. The show aims to highlight the individuality and reality of disabled people and disabled life by giving disabled people an opportunity to tell their own stories and share the issues that are important to them. Hosts Alice and Lucy draw on their own lived experiences as disabled people and offer a refreshingly honest, funny and occasionally dark insight into disability and difference. With episodes dedicated to […]

Carey Cox is a New York based actor. Originally from El Paso, TX, Carey has a BFA in Musical Theater from Santa Fe University of Art and Design, and an MFA in Acting from UNC Chapel Hill. Carey has performed on Broadway, Off-Broadway, and in regional theater. Joseph Kibler is a born disabled and HIV positive actor/writer/content creator living in New York, NY. Joseph has appeared on shows such as Chicago Med, Good Trouble, Criminal Minds and CSI Cyber along with several National commercials from brands like Wells Fargo, Toyota, National Association of Realtors & United Healthcare. Joe, Carey and […]

Makenzie Morgan Gomez (she/they) is a professional theatre artist and creative based in Brooklyn, NY. Makenzie is an ambulatory mobility aid user, rotating between a cane, forearm crutches, and a manual wheelchair depending on the activity, day, and even what works best for the character they’re playing. She has what is considered “Dynamic Disability,” meaning their symptoms can vary drastically day by day. In Spring 2024, Makenzie had the pleasure of performing with 19 year old Libby in the disability-informed Off-Broadway production of “I Ought To Be In Pictures” by Neil Simon with TBTB. Keith and Makenzie talk about her […]