Disability Empowerment Now

Aubrie Therrien is the Executive Artistic Director of The EPIC Players, dedicated to creating neuro-diverse opportunities and communities through the arts. She has been an actress regionally and in New York City for 20 years and holds a BFA in Theater from Longwood University and a Masters of Public Health from New York University. She has worked with the neuro-diverse community through theater for several years and is a passionate advocate for inclusion in the arts. She was recognized as New Yorker of the Week by News One New York for her work and has been published in Autism Spectrum […]

Andrew Marcum, Ph.D., brings an unparalleled passion for Disability Studies to his role as the Academic Director and Distinguished Lecturer at the CUNY School of Professional Studies. A trailblazer in the field, Dr. Marcum served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at SPS from 2016 to 2022, concurrently acting as the dynamic Program Coordinator for the Center for Self-Advocacy in Buffalo, NY. Venturing beyond traditional academia, Dr. Marcum’s expertise earned him a prestigious dissertation research fellowship at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. He further enriched his experience as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Center […]

After a B.A. in English from American University in Washington D.C. and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the Instituto Allende, University of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Scott taught literature and composition at Baruch College for fifteen years in New York City, while freelancing as a photographer (scottseldinphotography.com). In 1982, Scott wrote Yes, Boss, published by Blythe-Pennington, LTD. After moving to Santa Fe, he worked as director of Mountain View School on the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit of St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, followed by eleven years as academic coordinator and personal development coach at The College of Santa […]

After a B.A. in English from American University in Washington D.C. and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the Instituto Allende, University of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Scott taught literature and composition at Baruch College for fifteen years in New York City, while freelancing as a photographer (scottseldinphotography.com). In 1982, Scott wrote Yes, Boss, published by Blythe-Pennington, LTD. After moving to Santa Fe, he worked as director of Mountain View School on the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit of St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, followed by eleven years as academic coordinator and personal development coach at The College of Santa […]

S3 Episode 8: Kurt Yaeger is an American actor and disability advocate known for his inspiring story of resilience and determination. He was born on January 3, 1977, in San Francisco, California. However, 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.” His […]

Cary Goldberg began his 20+ year career as a performing artist on a one night whim. At the age of 14, he wrote a stand up comedy act and opened for a comedy troupe at the local rock club, what was supposed to be one night, ended up spanning 6 years. Cary always stuck to rock clubs rather than comedy clubs, because as a comedy promoter once eloquently told him “People come to comedy clubs to drink, not to think.” Cary has always believed that if his art wasn’t making people think, he was doing a disservice. He played hundreds of shows […]

S3 Episode 6: Daniel Woodburn is an American actor, comedian, and activist for the disability rights movement linked to his dwarfism. He is most known for his work on Seinfeld in the 90s but has worked on films like Jingle All the Way, Watchmen, and Mirror Mirror. He is a graduate of Philadelphia’s Temple University’s School of Film and Theater and recipient of their Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award of 2001. He is a well-known, long-time advocate for performers with disabilities in film, television and theatre. He serves on the Performers With Disabilities Committee of SAG-AFTRA. Daniel talks to Keith about […]

Ron Barber was an American politician who dedicated his life to advocacy on various critical issues. Throughout his career, Ron Barber was a tireless champion of civil rights, advocating for equality and justice for all Americans. He understood the importance of inclusivity and worked to ensure that every citizen’s rights were protected and upheld. Ron Barber was also a staunch supporter of Medicare, recognizing the significance of accessible healthcare for all Americans, especially the elderly and vulnerable populations. His efforts in congress aimed to strengthen and improve the Medicare program to ensure that it provided comprehensive coverage to those in […]

Anita Hollander has performed throughout Europe, Asia & US, at Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, London’s West End, NY Shakespeare Festival, Goodman Theatre & White House. A Helen Hayes Award nominee, her solo musicals Still Standing and Spectacular Falls, have played Off-Broadway, nationally & internationally. Other Theatre work includes Ragtime, CATS (Grizabella). On TV she’s Guest Starred on Welcome To Flatch & FBI: Most Wanted. Film work includes Handsome Harry, Musical Chairs. SAG-AFTRA National Chair, Performers With Disabilities. www.anitahollander.com Find the Transcript here. Encuentre la transcripción aquí. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.

Introducing Scott Hatley, a remarkable individual with a profound dedication to making a difference. Scott, despite facing the challenges of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), has emerged as an inspirational figure in the world of nonprofit leadership. He currently serves as the Executive Director of INCIGHT, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. INCIGHT, under Scott’s visionary guidance, is on a mission to foster social inclusion and empowerment for individuals living with various barriers and dependencies. This nonprofit is at the forefront of transforming lives, providing invaluable support in the realms of education, employment, independence, coaching, and a unique initiative known as Handicap™. Scott […]

Jessica Cox was named Tucson’s 40 Under 40 2022’s Woman of the Year and is the first armless pilot in aviation history. She is a motivational speaker that has presented all around the world. Sami Madden is an advocate with disabilities and a recruiter for a Defense Contractor. Jessica and Sami talk to Keith about their advocacy experience and both their aviation accomplishments. They discuss Tai Kwon Do, their fitness routines and how both manage their busy schedules. Find the Transcript here. Encuentre la transcripción aquí. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.

Temple Grandin P.h.D is a renowned autism spokesperson, author and animal behaviorist and an academic. She is a designer of livestock handling facilities and a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. Facilities she has designed are located in the United States, Canada, Europe, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries. Dr. Grandin talks to Keith about her books “Thinking in Pictures,” and “Visual Thinking.” She talks about the disability mindset and emphasizes learning life-skills like “shopping, how to save money and general work skills,” and how to get a good career with these skills. She also talks about […]

Season 3 trailer is here! This season, host Keith Murfee DeConcini explores the theme of disability and entertainment with guests like Temple Grandin, Ron Barber, Daniel Woodburn and more! Listen to new episodes every week on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, DisabilityEmpowermentNow.com or wherever you stream podcasts. Follow @DisabilityEmpowermentNow on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Subscribe to the podcast to never miss an episode and comment and rate the show. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.

Leroy Moore is the co-founder of Krip Hop Nation, he is also an activist, author, and current PhD student at UCLA. In this episode, Moore dives into his experience growing up disabled in the 70s and his perspective on the birth of Krip Hop Nation. Find the transcript to this HERE. Follow Moore on Twitter @kriphopnation.

Kat Stratford and Heath Butrum are two sickeningly cute political activists who have made careers out of trying to create a better world through politics. Kat, 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 houselessness and housing insecurity. Heath is the Campaigns Director for Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE). Find the transcript for this episode HERE. Listen to Kat’s last episode HERE.

Jamon Freeman, B.K.A. A “triple threat” black, Deaf & physically challenged. He’s a generous guy who’s multi-talented, an athlete and a poet making a difference in both communities by bridging gaps within the deaf and hearing community. His goal is to open multiple doors for the youth. As a poet, Jamon is working on a “2nd” poetry book “The Road to Prosperity (into the light of Ambivalence.)” [Picture below], will be released sometime in 2023, this year. Jamon is/was and forever will be a competitive athlete who has played most sports there is on both sides, as an abled body […]

Ilya Benjamin is the director of user experience for a medical company. Keith and Ilya have been friends and colleagues for a long time. Ilya worked in the CUNY School of Professional Studies Office of Disabilities while Keith pursued his degree. Ilya has a background in art education and design. Access the transcript of the episode HERE.

Dyara and George Henderson are the parents of the late Jonathan Henderson, who Keith had known for over 20 years. Dyara Henderson is from Adelphi, Maryland. Ms. Henderson attended City College of New York and holds a Master’s of Christian Education and Counseling. A lifelong reader, passionate about working with youth; she has volunteered with […]

LeAnna Lucero is a recreational therapist. Keith and Lucero first met when they were in the Arizona LEND program in 2017. They actually co-taught a class on Cerebral Palsy. Lucero’s Arizona LEND bio: “I am a child life specialist and recreational therapist at Diamond Children’s Hospital. I have a master’s degree in therapeutic recreation from […]

Stephanie Woodward is an attorney, activist, and organizer, passionate about Disability Rights and empowering people with disabilities. She is also the co-founder and Executive Director of Disability EmpowHer Network, a national nonprofit dedicated to empowering girls and women with disabilities to grow, learn, and develop to their highest potential and have the confidence to lead. […]

In this episode, Advocates Network Admins (Jamon Freeman, Hunta Williams, and Allison Jones) discuss adaptive sports and access. Access the transcript for this episode HERE. Jamon Freeman, B.K.A. A “triple threat” black, Deaf & physically challenged. He’s a generous guy who’s multi-talented, an athlete and poet making a difference in both communities by bridging gaps […] Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright

Dr. Amy Kenny is a disabled scholar and Shakespearan lecturer from the University of Sussex whose research focuses on medical and bodily themes in literature. Her work has been featured in publications such as Teen Vogue, The Mighty, The Audacity, and Sojourners. Kenny is a scribe for Freedom Road Institute for Leadership and Justice and […]

My name is Bronson Layton. I am originally from Ragland, Alabama, but I now live in South Carolina. I am twenty-five years old. I graduated from Ragland High School in 2016. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English at Jacksonville State University in 2020, and a Master’s Degree in English from the same university in […]

Jackie Schuld is an autistic art therapist specializing in newly identified autistics and those who suspect they might be autistic. She is also an artist and essayist. She writes about mental health topics daily and pairs each essay with an art piece on Medium (@JackieSchuld). You can learn more about her creative and professional work […]

Dr. Gabrielle Ficchi is a licensed therapist and certified rehabilitation counselor. Gabrielle has 10 years of counseling experience. As a counselor, her specialty focuses on individuals with disabilities, specifically disability adjustment, health, and wellness promotion, and disability identity. In addition, her personal experience with a disability helps her relate to the participants’ experiences. Gabrielle’s work […]

Nicholas Viselli (Artistic Director) joined Theater Breaking Through Barriers in 1997 and is deeply humbled to continue the company’s legacy, started by his predecessor, TBTB’s founding Artistic Director, Ike Schambelan. As an actor, Nick has performed in over 30 TBTB productions during the past 25 years. He has also directed several plays for TBTB and […]

Emily Ladau is a passionate disability rights activist, writer, storyteller, and digital communications consultant whose career began at the age of 10 when she appeared on several episodes of Sesame Street to educate children about her life with a physical disability. Her writing has been published in outlets including The New York Times, CNN, Vice, […]

Mariette J. Bates retired in August of 2022 from her position as Distinguished Lecturer and Academic Director of the Disability Studies Program at CUNY’s School of Professional Studies. Dr. Bates began her career as an advocate for the institutionalized mentally ill, before becoming the Program Director at One to One, a foundation started by Geraldo […]

The Honorable Tony Coelho is a retired U.S. Congressman from California, a former House of Representative Majority Whip, Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman and the principal author of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Diagnosed with epilepsy when he was 22 years old, Mr. Coelho has spent his entire adult life helping advance the lives of […]

“My photos are my children. Choosing ‘favorites’ is difficult. The totality of photos in my archive highlights some of the important events, the difficult, often dangerous work, and the passionate, dedicated people who time and again put their voices and bodies in the way of injustice – three-plus decades of effort that lead to the […]

Tina Bauschatz is the Founder and Director of the Reading Therapy Center of Southern Arizona. She is a reading expert who specializes in teaching neurodivergent children – from autism to dyslexia – how to read. “I founded The Reading Therapy Center in 2019 to address a need in the community for children with challenges to […]

Isaac Zablocki is the Director of film programs at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan. He attended film school at Columbia University and went on to work at Miramax films. Previously, he produced and directed feature films and developed film educational programs for the Department of Education. Since 2004, Isaac has been developing film programs at […]

Keith P. Jones is a 2021 Emmy award-winning musician, CEO, and President of Soul Touchin Experiences LLC. According to Jones’ website: “Keith P. Jones started SoulTouchin’ Experiences to bring a perspective to the issues of access inclusion and empowerment which affect himself as well as others who are persons with a disability. With involvement in […]

J.J. Rico is the Chief Executive Officer at the Arizona Center for Disability Law, the protection and advocacy agency in Arizona, providing free legal services to people with disabilities. Prior to becoming the CEO, J.J worked as ACDL’s litigation director and as a staff attorney. His legal work focused on the employment and access provisions […]

Brie is the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Southern Arizona (ASSA). She began as a volunteer on the marketing committee, lending her experience by working in publishing, eCommerce and digital marketing. After graduating from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism she began working in publishing at Harper’s Bazaar […]

Jon Meyers became Executive Director of the Arizona Developmental Disabilities Planning Council in March 2022, after serving as Executive Director of The Arc of Arizona since 2013. Jon’s background in the non-profit sector spans more than 30 years and ranges from the arts and education to social services and animal welfare.

Kyle Lininger is Vice President of Clinical Integration at Intermountain Centers. Concentrated areas of interest presently are public policy, non-profit management, behavior systems analysis, the Community Reinforcement Approach for Substance Use Disorders, and integrated value-based healthcare modeling and intervention. In previous roles, Kyle has provided and overseen programs supporting in-home delivered comprehensive and focused Applied […]

Jared Perkins is the CEO of Children’s Clinics, a Multi-Specialty Interdisciplinary medical center that provides comprehensive medical care for children with the most complex medical conditions in Southern Arizona.

Dennis DeConcini is a former United States Senator who served in public office at the same time the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) was debated, crafted, and signed into law.

Kat Stratford is a single mom to a brilliant daughter and an extraordinary trans son. A twenty-year resident of Tucson, Kat is an outspoken advocate for victims of violent crime and has spent the last two years focused on policies that would help survivors of sexual and domestic violence. As a survivor herself, she is […]

Anita Altman is the co-founder of the ReelAbilities Film Festival, the largest festival in the U.S. dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories, and artistic expressions of people with disabilities. Her vision provided the original foundation for ReelAbilities. She hoped that a film festival might be a worthwhile vehicle for sharing the […]

Episode 2 with Rep. Jennifer Longdon is out now on our website and on all streaming platforms! Jennifer Longdon is one of two elected members of the Arizona House of Representatives serving Legislative District 24, which covers Central Phoenix and South Scottsdale. Paralyzed in a random shooting in 2004, Jennifer is an outspoken advocate for people with disabilities and strengthening laws to curb gun violence. We also want to add a *trigger warning* to this episode because there are mentions of child sexual abuse, sexual assault, gun violence, and hospital abuse and neglect. Thank you so much for a very candid interview, Jennifer. Transcripts for each episode are also available through a link in the episode show notes:

We are proud to present the first episode of the Disability Empowerment Now Podcast! Jovan Ruvalcaba is a Tucson-based attorney and disability rights advocate. We discuss his long-distance relationship, education, career, and the joy of traveling. You can find a transcript of this podcast episode by clicking this link: disability-empowerment-now.castos.com/episodes/episode-1-with-jovan-ruvalcaba.

The Disability Empowerment Now Podcast is launching at the end of April! Get to know your host, Keith Murfee-DeConcini, before the launch of the first episode on April 30th, 2022, by listening to this trailer. Thank you for listening and we will see you again at the end of April! Follow the podcast on Facebook, […]