Podcasts about united spinal association

Stacey Frigerio Mahdavian graduated from UMass Amherst in 1989. She planned to work as a camp counselor that summer and then travel a bit. Unfortunately, life had another idea. On a gravel road in the middle of nowhere Wyoming, the car in which she was riding, fishtailed and then flipped four times. In between the third and fourth flip, she was thrown 100 feet from the car and sustained a spinal cord injury at L1 and L2. At the time she was told she would never walk again, nor be able to have children. In this week's episode of the QuadCast, Stacey tells us about her remarkable journey, which has had many twists and turns. Over the years, she has worked as an assistant district attorney in the Brooklyn district attorney's office, worked at a private law firm, become an advocate for the SCI community with United Spinal Association and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation, and more. Most importantly/impressively, she will participate in November's New York City Marathon in a handcycle with a guide runner… who just so happens to be her 25-year-old daughter, Anastasia (the oldest of her 3 children)! Stacey is the personification of resilience, and you will hear that loud and clear in our conversation!

Send us a textIn honor of African American Awareness Month, Accessibility is Home proudly welcomes a powerhouse in real estate—Lamont McLeod, a multi-million-dollar real estate broker, wheelchair user, and the visionary behind The Wheeltor brand. As a Black entrepreneur navigating both the real estate industry and the world as a quadriplegic, Lamont's journey is one of resilience, innovation, and advocacy.In this episode, host Angela Fox and Lamont discuss the systemic barriers to accessible homeownership, particularly for the disability community. Lamont shares his personal story of pivoting from accounting to real estate, and how he redefined his career after a life-changing accident. They explore the stark realities of accessible housing, from the financial burden of home modifications to the lack of universally designed properties in the market. Lamont also dives into his work with United Spinal Association and his advocacy for better policies supporting wheelchair users and accessible home development.This episode is essential listening for DEIA professionals, realtors, and housing developers looking to understand the intersection of race, disability, and economic empowerment in homeownership. Lamont's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the urgent need for inclusion in real estate.

Airline sustainability with the founder and CEO of the SimpliFlying aviation marketing, branding, and communications consultancy firm. Also, actions by Boeing, the outcome of the American Airlines vs. Skiplagged.com suit, US airlines performing poorly in a global ranking, United Airlines and passenger accessibility, and the U.S. Army looks for a new heavy-lift helicopter. Guest Shashank Nigam is the founder and CEO of SimpliFlying, one of the world's largest aviation marketing, branding, and communications consultancy firms. Shashank's new area of interest is airline sustainability. Shashank explains that airline brand experience and engagement are longer than other products and services, especially with long-haul flights. The branding fundamentals remain the same, but how airlines build trust has changed. In 2008 it was airline presence on Twitter and Facebook. During the pandemic, it was health and safety. Now, airline sustainability has grown in importance. The Sustainability in the Air podcast explores what airline, airport, and technology firm CEO innovators are doing. Shashank gives an example of how creative financing is needed for airline sustainability. We also consider what Boeing must do to restore trust and hear about the very interesting company culture at SimpliFlying. SimpliFlying was founded in 2008 and has worked with over 100 aviation clients in airline branding, customer experience, digital marketing, crisis communications, and sustainability initiatives. SimpliFlying's analysis and insights have been featured in leading international media outlets such as BBC, CNN, CNBC, Reuters, Bloomberg, the Wall Street Journal, and the New York Times. Shashank is the author of Soar: How the Best Airline Brands Delight Customers and Inspire Employees and Sustainability in the Air: Innovators Transforming Aviation for a Greener Future. Look for him on LinkedIn and join over 4,000 Sustainability in the Air subscribers which separates the signal from the noise in sustainable travel. Aviation News United teams with United Spinal to strengthen accessibility Under a new agreement, the United Spinal Association will help advise and support United Airlines to improve the travel experience for customers with disabilities. The United Spinal Association represents 5.5 million American wheelchair users.  United Spinal Association CEO Vincenzo Piscopo said “This partnership demonstrates that accessible travel is a reality, and every step forward brings us closer to a more inclusive travel experience for the disability community. I hope to see continued improvements not only from United Airlines but also throughout the entire travel industry.” The Runway Girl Network reports that the FAA “is working to define the criteria necessary to allow someone to remain in their personal wheelchair during flight using a tie-down similar to what's used in the automotive industry, and as the US Department of Transportation prepares to initiate rulemaking in that regard.” Boeing's CEO Is Shrinking the Jet Maker to Stop Its Crisis From Spiraling With all its troubles and difficult financial position, some Industry insiders and analysts are thinking about a possible Boeing breakup or even bankruptcy. In a note to employees, new CEO Kelly Ortberg said Boeing has spread itself too thin: “We need to be clear-eyed about the work we face. We also need to focus our resources on performing and innovating in the areas that are core to who we are.” Boeing is exploring asset sales and pruning non-core or underperforming units. Boeing machinists to vote on new proposal with 35% raises that could end strike The new proposal includes 35% in wage increases over four years, a $7,000 signing bonus, increased 401(k) contributions, and guaranteed minimum annual bonus payouts. The ratification vote is scheduled for Wednesday, October 23, 2024. Why US airlines are loathed around the world - as they take up bot...

Purple Heart Honoree, Vietnam Veteran ~Ron Drach was a Presidential Appointee along with my Mentor in College when I was at Howard University,He is a subject matter expert in military and veterans issues with more than 50 years of experience. After losing a leg as a result of combat in Vietnam, Ron medically retired from the U.S. Army in 1967 with a Purple Heart.Soon after, he focused his life on working to help his fellow disabled veterans. Following nearly three years with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), he joined the staff of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in 1970. Beginning in DAV's Pittsburgh office, Ron rapidly rose to become the organization's national employment director in 1975. He was the first Vietnam veteran to be appointed a director at DAV. In this post, he established the reputation he maintains today as one of the nation's foremost authorities on employment issues impacting veterans and others whose lives have been affected by disabilities. Ron's responsibilities led him to provide significant input into America's response to the needs of veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, homelessness, racial and gender discrimination and other socio-economic issues. He became a leading voice on questions involving Social Security disability benefits, as well as efforts to remove barriers that impede the lives and employment of people with disabilities.Many times throughout his career, Ron has appeared before congressional committees, offering expertise and recommendations for legislative change. After leaving the DAV, Ron was employed by the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL/VETS). As the director of government and legislative affairs, he was responsible for working with congressional staff, the Department's Office of the Solicitor and others within the agency on all legislative employment issues that affect the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs. He is currently the president of Drach Consulting. Throughout the years, Ron has served on many commissions that strive to enhance the lives of disabled veterans and other people with disabilities. Ron recently served as a member of DOD's Recovering Warrior Task Force after being appointed by former DOD Secretary Gates.He has also served on the governing boards of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, the National Resource Directory and others. Ron's high-profile volunteer activity has included service as a team leader for the U.S. Paralympics Sitting Volleyball Team that competed in the 2000 International Paralympics Competition in Sydney, Australia. He was one of the founders and served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Wounded Warrior Project including four years as its president. He currently serves on the Boards of United Spinal Association and TransCen. He also serves in an advisory capacity to ThanksUSA and the DC Metro Business Leadership Network and chairs their Wounded Warrior Committee. Ron is also a co-author and co-editor of the Warrior Transition Leader Medical Rehabilitation Handbook. He is a frequent contributor to the DC Metro Business Leadership Network's electronic newsletter.Ron lives in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., with his wife, Carolyn, a retired financial analyst for the Federal Reserve. They have two adult daughters, Tiffany and Amber, and two grandchildren.© 2024 Building Abundant Success!!2024 All Rights ReservedJoin Me ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASAmazon ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

On this episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast, I have some good news. Your favorite podcast host Rhonel, is officially a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC). Check out the IAAP Website for my information on the certification. Also, joining me for the episode is Natalia Mendez, Founder and Executive Director of Women on Wheels. She shares how she turned her experiences post-SCI led to her advocacy.Ramp. It. Up! Get to Know our GuestNatalia Mendez is Founder and Executive Director of Women on Wheels, a non-profit organization that educates and empowers women with spinal cord injuries. She is currently Vice President of the United Spinal Association's New York City Chapter and has over 14 years experience working as a Youth Advocate for children with disabilities at the Bronx Independent Living Center. She also serves as a peer mentor for the newly injured, and has a deep passion for promoting awareness and inclusivity for people of all abilities, especially women. Website: https://www.womenonwheelsnyc.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenonwheelsnycFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenonwheelsnyc/Email: womenonwheelsnyc@gmail.comStay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comWe want to hear from you!Support the Show.

In this episode of "Ask the Expert, Community Spotlight Edition," Lydia Dubose of SRNA spoke with Kim Harrison about her journey with transverse myelitis (TM), adaptive sports, and challenges she has faced since her diagnosis [00:01:25]. Kim highlighted the importance of community support systems in her life [00:11:38]. She discussed managing symptoms, navigating social situations, and raising awareness for rare neuroimmune disorders [00:17:39]. Finally, Kim shared her inspiring story of completing the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in her adaptive wheelchair, demonstrating resilience and determination [00:23:49]. Originally from Atlanta, GA, Kim Harrison currently resides in St. Augustine, FL. She contracted transverse myelitis (TM) in 2004 while on a business trip to Dallas, TX. In 2012, she partitioned her State Senator, Donzella James, to declare February 15th as Transverse Myelitis Awareness Day. She is on the mayor's accessibility committee, a United Spinal Association North Florida Chapter Advocacy Representative, a Christopher and Dana Reeve Peer Mentor, and a volunteer at Brooks Rehabilitation Hospital. Kim organized a Walk-Run-N-Roll and has been a support group leader with SRNA. She has been on the Braves Stadium ADA advisory board, has participated in ROCH Roll on Capitol Hill with United Spinal Association, and has advocated for wheelchair users' rights for activity based physical therapy with Warrior Momz. Kim is the adaptive athlete who rolled the 500-mile Camino de Santiago in Spain with her adaptive GRIT Freedom wheelchair. She is 65 and lives in an aged community with her husband of 38 years, Brian. You can learn more about the organization I'll Push You and Kim's journey on the Camino de Santiago here: https://www.accessiblecamino.com/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/1051370995944241/

Tune in to the latest episode of Wheelchair Nerds as we explore the advancements in air travel advocacy with special guests Alex Bennewith and Kent Keyser from the United Spinal Association. Delve into the rich history and mission of the United Spinal Association, along with resources like local chapters and support groups. Our discussion goes into two crucial developments in advocacy and travel: the Department of Transportation's proposed rules to enhance the rights of individuals with disabilities under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), and H.R. 3935, the “FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024,” which extends the Federal Aviation Administration's authority and revenue sources until September 30, 2028. 

Josh Basile and Kelley Brooks Simoneaux, both seasoned attorneys, shed light on the multifaceted challenges individuals face after a spinal cord injury. Beyond the immediate focus of recovery, they uncover the daunting realities of navigating financial burdens, deciphering insurance complexities, managing fundraisers, safeguarding assets, and understanding one's legal rights. Josh's founding of SPINALpedia, aptly named for its comprehensive support network, serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking guidance and community. Through mentorship and shared experiences, SPINALpedia offers solace and encouragement to individuals grappling with the mindboggling obstacle course post-injury. Tune in to better understand why Josh likes to say, “Together we are stronger and together we are not alone!” For more information about Josh & Kelley and the important work they do, follow the links below: Joshua Basile, Esq., Jack H. Olender & Associates, and Founder of SPINALpediahttps://www.olender.com/attorneys/joshua-basile-esq/ Kelley Brooks Simoneaux, Esq., and Founder of Spinal Cord Injury Law Firmhttps://spinalcordinjurylawyers.com/meet-kelley/SPINALpedia https://spinalpedia.com/about-us/ HelpHopeLive https://helphopelive.org/ United Spinal Association https://unitedspinal.org/ Insurance Appeals Process https://spinalpedia.com/health-insurance-appeals-process Special thanks to Josh and Kelley for being our guests! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience! Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/ Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Following a car accident  at 16, Addis Alemayehu Gonte's life changed forever. Eventually he recovered from multiple traumatic injuries. Addis shares the challenges of living with visable and invisible disabilities. While in college he founded a nonprofit, ABLE Mindset, that works to uplift and empower lives through the creative arts. Addis reflects on the isolation often felt by individuals with disabilities and how we can bridge those gaps. We reveal the personal journeys that have led us to understand the significance of vulnerability and the importance of suspending assumptions. His work with ABLE Mindset, particularly the rhythm workshops and creative arts programs is supported from partners incuding the University of North Texas, the YMCA and the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.Addis Gonte's Bio Addis Gonte is a highly motivated and dedicated community outreach specialist with a passion for creating positive change in underserved communities. After a life-threatening car accident at 16, Addis Gonte was left with traumatic injuries. He was determined to continue his education, completing high school and college, graduating with a B.A. in Sociology and Rehabilitation from the University of North Texas. He is a certified peer and family support mentor for the Christopher and Dana Reeve organization and United Spinal Association, and is dedicated to supporting newly injured individuals and their families with this difficult transition in life. While in College, he founded his nonprofit, Able Mindset, dedicated to empower persons living with disabilities utilizing creative arts to have an enriching life experience.  Contact Addis at: https://ablemindset.org/ Like what you heard? Please like and share wherever you get your podcasts! Connect with Ann: Community Evaluation Solutions How Ann can help: · Support the evaluation capacity of your coalition or community-based organization. · Help you create a strategic plan that doesn't stress you and your group out, doesn't take all year to design, and is actionable. · Engage your group in equitable discussions about difficult conversations. · Facilitate a workshop to plan for action and get your group moving. · Create a workshop that energizes and excites your group for action. · Speak at your conference or event. Have a question or want to know more? Book a call with Ann .Be sure and check out our updated resource page! Let us know what was helpful. Community Possibilities is Produced by Zach Price Music by Zach Price: Zachpricet@gmail.com

Welcome to the latest episode of Spinal Cast, where we discuss the often over looked challenges of air travel, particularly for those with disabilities. In this segment, Ian Ruder, Editor-in-Chief of New Mobility, shares shocking stories of air travel. You'll discover the alarming lack of industry training for individuals with paralysis as well as the handling of essential equipment like wheelchairs. Ian also offers practical tips for smoother travel and highlights positive changes, including Delta's wheelchair-friendly seating prototype and ongoing federal efforts to amend the Air Carrier Access Act. Join us for a discussion on the path towards a more accessible and inclusive air travel experience for everyone.More information about Ian and New Mobility can be found using the links below: New Mobility - https://newmobility.com/meet-the-team/United Spinal - https://unitedspinal.org/Injury - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B-0mbh7Di-w Ian's Bio:Ian Ruder is the Editor-in-Chief of New Mobility, the longest-running, most-trusted magazine and web site for active wheelchair users (newmobility.com). A quadriplegic himself, Ruder joined the New Mobility team in 2011 when the magazine was purchased by United Spinal Association, a non-profit focused on mobility-related disability. Prior to working for New Mobility, he worked as a freelance journalist in the Pacific Northwest. When he is not working to promote authentic voices and stories from the disability community, he can likely be found enjoying the culinary delights in his hometown of Portland, Oregon, or rooting for his San Francisco Giants.Thanks again Ian for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!Interested in watching these episodes?! Check out our YouTube playlist! - https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL40rLlxGS4VzgAjW8P6Pz1mVWiN0Jou3vIf you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Welcome Josh Basile! In this stirring episode of "Pushing Forward with Alycia | A Disability Podcast," we welcome Josh Basile, a determined C4-5 quadriplegic who turned a life-altering beach accident into a path of relentless advocacy and innovation. As a trial attorney, inventor, and doting father, Josh challenges our views on disability and showcases the incredible feats achievable with grit and determination. His work with Determined2Heal and SPINALpedia.com exemplifies his commitment to empowering others. Join us as we explore the profound impact of technology, legal advocacy, and personal strength in creating an inclusive world for those with disabilities. Key Highlights: ✅ Josh's Personal Journey: From an active teenager to facing sudden paralysis, Josh recounts the accident that changed his life, emphasizing how he turned adversity into advocacy. ✅ Advocacy and Career: As a lawyer, Josh passionately works for disability rights, illustrating his commitment through legislative reforms and courtroom victories. ✅ Technological Empowerment: Josh discusses how technology enhances independence for people with disabilities, from voice-controlled home systems to accessible legal resources. ✅ Family Life: A touching segment on Josh's experience as a "Quad Father," highlighting the joys and challenges of parenting with a disability. ✅ Community Contributions: Josh's involvement with organizations like the United Spinal Association and his founding of SPINALpedia.com, a vital resource for the paralysis community. "Focus on what you can do rather than dwell on what you cannot. Life then becomes a journey of accomplishments." - Josh Basile Closing Thoughts: Josh's story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's resilience. His dedication to improving the lives of others, despite his own challenges, is a testament to the impact one individual can have. Join us in celebrating Josh's incredible story on this episode of "Pushing Forward with Alycia." Connect with Josh: Determined2Heal Foundation | Josh at Olender & Associates | Josh's LinkedIn Profile Connect with Alycia: Feedback | Instagram | LinkedIn | Book Alycia for Speaking | Book Alycia to Train Your Employees in Disabling Ableism | Buy Alycia's DEI Micro Learning Video Series Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Pushing Forward with Alycia. Open hearts, clear paths. Let's go.

In this episode, we spoke with Annie Streit - the Grassroots Advocacy Manager at the United Spinal Association! 00:00 Intro 02:20 Annie's Journey 12:06 United Spinal Association & Advocacy Network 14:58 Emergency Preparedness 17:27 Meet An Advocate 19:00 Being An Advocate Emissary 19:50 Roll On Capitol Hill 22:17 Support Is Everything 24:14 Action Alerts 27:03 Creating Real Action & Showing True Empathy 31:48 Life Experience Prepares Us 36:32 Equity, Access & Availability 40:45 Care Support Working Group 44:30 Annie's Other Projects And Recap LINKS United Spinal Association - https://unitedspinal.org/ United Spinal Association Advocacy Program - https://unitedspinal.org/advocacy-program/ United Spinal Association Grassroots Advocacy Network Registration Form - https://unitedspinal.org/grassroots-advocacy-network/ United Spinal Association Working Groups - https://unitedspinal.org/working-groups/ United Spinal Association Advocacy Network Facebook Page -https://www.facebook.com/UnitedSpinalAssociationAdvocacyNetwork Annie's Website - https://annieauthorblog.com/ Links to Annie's children's books - https://annieauthorblog.com/childrens-books/ Roll On Capitol Hill - https://unitedspinal.org/roll-on-capitol-hill/ January Care Support Webinar - https://unitedspinal.org/care-support-working-group/ ___ WAYS YOU CAN HELP Buy us a coffee or tea to help us continue to be able to share this content - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/m4gkrysandmark Pick up some merchandise on our online store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/m4g-advocacy-media/ Want to be a guest on the podcast? Sign up for PodMatch at https://podmatch.com/signup/m4gadvocacymedia or email us at accounts@marked4glory.com ___ We take accessibility seriously at M4G! Our accessibility partner is accessiBe. If you're looking to make your website more accessible (and really you should!), check them out at https://accessiBe.com @accesiBe ___ Check out our website: https://www.m4gadvocacymedia.com Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/m4gadvocacymedia Join our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/m4gadvocacymedia Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m4gadvocacymedia Follow us on Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/m4gadvocacy Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@m4gadvocacymedia #disability #m4gadvocacymedia #Journeys #podcast #interview #SCI #SpinalCordInjury #PowerWheelchair #paralysis #teacher #advocacy #ReadyToRoll #author #speaker #nonprofit --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/m4gadvocacymedia/support

On today's episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast I am recapping my recent trip to Las Vegas to attend the United Spinal Association's Strong Wheeled Together Conference.  Ramp. It. Up!Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comLife's 3 Things - Author Manny Garcia's Podcast5-minute happiness advice, translated from history's greatest books and wisest sages.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

Everyone has a story, but Nick LiBassi's is truly remarkable! In 1996, at age 26, Nick endured a horrific skydiving accident. Surviving the accident is almost unimaginable but what's even more significant is what Nick has done with his life since that day.In this episode of Spinal Cast Nick shares with great honesty the challenging journey from injury and rehab to transitioning mentally and physically to a life that is something different than he originally imagined. As Nick states, “The people we encounter in our lives matter.”Because of Nick's lived experience with spinal cord injury he is a vital voice in many capacities … fundraising, sitting on various boards and committees, and a professional business career. He's worked at Johnson & Johnson, helped lead a team within an international executive search firm, transitioned to United Spinal Association to establish their Partnership Expansion strategy, and currently works with Mobius Mobility where he is head of sales for the iBOT PMD (an amazing machine!) And, that's not the complete resume. Nick has also has a history in local government as Municipal Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Police Commissioner and Fire Commissioner. Obviously, Nick practices what he preaches… “Don't sell yourself short – go do it.”Nick's full bio can be found here: https://mcpf.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NicholasLiBassi_Bio.pdfMobius Mobility/iBOT: https://mobiusmobility.com/Thanks again to Nick for being our guest on today's podcast! This production is a collaborative effort of volunteers working to create a quality audio and visual experience around the subject of spinal cord injury. A special shout out of appreciation to Clientek for providing studio space and top-notch recording equipment. Most importantly, thank YOU for being part of the Spinal Cast audience!If you'd like to learn more about the Morton Cure Paralysis Fund you can visit our website at - https://mcpf.org/Donations are always appreciated - https://mcpf.org/you-can-help/

Purple Heart Honoree, Vietnam Veteran ~Ron Drach was a Presidential Appointee along with my Mentor in College when I was at Howard University,He is a subject matter expert in military and veterans issues with more than 50 years of experience. After losing a leg as a result of combat in Vietnam, Ron medically retired from the U.S. Army in 1967 with a Purple Heart. Soon after, he focused his life on working to help his fellow disabled veterans. Following nearly three years with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), he joined the staff of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in 1970. Beginning in DAV's Pittsburgh office, Ron rapidly rose to become the organization's national employment director in 1975. He was the first Vietnam veteran to be appointed a director at DAV. In this post, he established the reputation he maintains today as one of the nation's foremost authorities on employment issues impacting veterans and others whose lives have been affected by disabilities. Ron's responsibilities led him to provide significant input into America's response to the needs of veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, homelessness, racial and gender discrimination and other socio-economic issues. He became a leading voice on questions involving Social Security disability benefits, as well as efforts to remove barriers that impede the lives and employment of people with disabilities. Many times throughout his career, Ron has appeared before congressional committees, offering expertise and recommendations for legislative change. After leaving the DAV, Ron was employed by the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans' Employment and Training Service (DOL/VETS). As the director of government and legislative affairs, he was responsible for working with congressional staff, the Department's Office of the Solicitor and others within the agency on all legislative employment issues that affect the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs. He is currently the president of Drach Consulting. Throughout the years, Ron has served on many commissions that strive to enhance the lives of disabled veterans and other people with disabilities. Ron recently served as a member of DOD's Recovering Warrior Task Force after being appointed by former DOD Secretary Gates. He has also served on the governing boards of the President's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, the National Resource Directory and others. Ron's high-profile volunteer activity has included service as a team leader for the U.S. Paralympics Sitting Volleyball Team that competed in the 2000 International Paralympics Competition in Sydney, Australia. He was one of the founders and served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Wounded Warrior Project including four years as its president. He currently serves on the Boards of United Spinal Association and TransCen. He also serves in an advisory capacity to ThanksUSA and the DC Metro Business Leadership Network and chairs their Wounded Warrior Committee. Ron is also a co-author and co-editor of the Warrior Transition Leader Medical Rehabilitation Handbook. He is a frequent contributor to the DC Metro Business Leadership Network's electronic newsletter. Ron lives in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., with his wife, Carolyn, a retired financial analyst for the Federal Reserve. They have two adult daughters, Tiffany and Amber, and two grandchildren.© 2023 Building Abundant Success!!2023 All Rights ReservedJoin Me ~ iHeart Media @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBASAmazon ~ https://tinyurl.com/AmzBASAudacy:  https://tinyurl.com/BASAud

On this episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are chatting with Lesly St. Louis.  October is Disability Employment Awareness Month, and Lesly, a fellow wheelchair user, is the Director of the Pathways to Employment program at the United Spinal Association.Ramp. It. Up! Get To Know Our Guest Lesly St. Louis is grateful to have the opportunity to facilitate people with disabilities obtaining gainful employment, and to replace fear and prejudice against people with disabilities with mutual understanding. Having continuously encountered barriers from employers, he sees the common challenges individuals with disabilities have to overcome are not their disabilities, but the stigma surrounding them. He hopes that creating employment opportunities will increase confidence within these individuals and inspire them to conquer more challenges and achieve even higher levels of success. Lesly was born with Spina Bifida, diagnosed with the most severe form called myelomeningocele, and is a wheelchair user. He holds a Master's degree from Long Island University, C.W. Post, and regularly participates in adaptive sports. Through his involvement in adaptive sports, and in his professional life, he strives to advocate for individuals with disabilities and restore dignity through productivity.Click Here to register for Employment Empowerment Series: Navigating Employment with a DisabilityWebsite: https://unitedspinal.org/pathways-to-employment/Email: lstlouis@unitedspinal.orgResources Observed each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) celebrates the contributions of America's workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees. ODEP has chosen "Advancing Access and Equity" as the theme for NDEAM 2023. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/odep/initiatives/ndeamPeople with disabilities have long strengthened our economy and expanded our Nation's possibilities.  During National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we recognize the immense contributions of disabled Americans, and we recommit to delivering America's full promise of equal dignity, respect, and opportunity for every American.  https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2023/09/29/a-proclamation-on-national-disability-employment-awareness-month-2023/Check out these related episodes:United Spinal Assoc. Tech Talks: Re-employment with Lesly St. LouisRamp. It. Up! Podcast Season 3 Episode 9: All About the (SSI/SSDI) Benefits Baby with Atty. Jeffery MindeRamp. It. Up! Podcast Season 4 Episode 10: SCI Awareness Month 2023: Atty. Joshua BasileStay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

Vincenzo and Gabriela Piscopo: Empowering People with Motor Disabilities around the World — The Wheels of Happiness Foundation is on a mission to empower spinal cord injury survivors and individuals with motor disabilities with the resources they need to reintegrate into society and add value to their families and communities. Based in Atlanta, the Foundation supports people in disadvantaged communities around the world.  Enjoy the conversation today as Ramona talks to the founders Vincenzo and Gabriela Piscopo about their journey to building this organization and why their work is so impactful. Vincenzo serves as the CEO of the United Spinal Association and Dr. Gabriela Piscopo is a professor at Morehouse College. Together, they inspire and uplift communities through service.  Mark your calendars to join the Wheels of Happiness Foundation for their annual fundraising gala on September 30th, in Atlanta, Georgia, as they celebrate Uganda. Resources: https://wheelsofhappiness.org/  The Wheels of Happiness Foundation 2023 Gala   Highlights from our conversation: Vincenzo and Gabriela's personal journey as immigrants from Venezuela to the US Founding of the Wheels of Happiness Foundation The various experiences and support systems of people with motor disabilities “The multiplier effect”:  How helping others with motor disabilities makes even greater impact on families and communities Wheels of Happiness Foundation 2023 Gala, September 30, 2023, Atlanta, Georgia Celebrating Uganda Strategies for college success

On this episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast, Ian Ruder joins the show for SCI Awareness Month.Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our Guests Ian Ruder is the Editor-in-Chief of New Mobility, the longest-running, most-trusted magazine and web site for active wheelchair users (newmobility.com). A quadriplegic himself, Ruder joined the New Mobility team in 2011 when the magazine was purchased by United Spinal Association, a non-profit focused on mobility-related disability. Prior to working for New Mobility, he worked as a freelance journalist in the Pacific Northwest. When he is not working to promote authentic voices and stories from the disability community, he can likely be found enjoying the culinary delights in his hometown of Portland, Oregon, or rooting for his San Francisco Giants.About: https://newmobility.com/author/iruder/Website: https://newmobility.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmobilitymagTwitter: https://twitter.com/NewMobilityMagStay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

This week FemCity CEO, Violette de Ayala is joined by Michele Leahy, Founder at Leahy Life Plan. Join in the conversation as they dive into Services and Support You May Not Know You Need.  About Michelle Leahy  // Ms. Leahy is the founder and CEO of Leahy Life Plan, a firm dedicated to life planning for those with disabilities as well as their families. She understands disability challenges from both a professional and personal perspective. Her goal is to assist in developing strategies of funding special needs trusts and creating a roadmap to meaningful adult supports. She has her Certification in Work Incentive Planning through an approved Social Security Administration (SSA) program established through the SSA Ticket To Work Program. Ms. Leahy received her M.S. in Non-Profit Management from Eastern University and an B.A. in Communications, Division of Humanities, from Penn State. She has 15+ years of varied professional work experiences before she established her own company.  She was the first non-veteran Executive Board Member of the United Spinal Association, a national disability rights organization, where she served for over 8 years. In 2018, she spoke on disability issues at the Philadelphia Women's March on the steps of the Art Museum. She has been a key player in organizations such as AHEDD (a specialized human resource organization), the Epilepsy Foundation of Eastern PA, assisted in the establishment of the Bucks County Center for Independent Living and has served on many community advisory boards that advocate for individuals with disabilities. Ms. Leahy has spoken both nationally and locally on disability at PBI's Exceptional Children Conference, PaTTAN, Spina Bifida National Conference, VoiceAmerica and on the floor of the Pennsylvania Senate. Learn more at https://www.leahylifeplan.com/ About FemCity //  FemCity offers a Free 30-Day Trial Membership and Memberships start at only $15.99. You can also learn more about launching a FemCity Chapter in your community. FemCity has been seen in Gilt, Vogue, AP News, Entrepreneur, Forbes, and MarieClaire. Learn why FemCity is more than just a women's networking group at www.femcity.com and on all social platforms @FemCity. About Violette de Ayala // Violette is a Cuban-American serial and social Entrepreneur, Founder of FemCity®, and virtual mentor to over 20,000 women. Violette has been quoted in Success, Entrepreneur, CNBC, Yahoo Small Business, Business Insider News as a small business expert. You can connect with Violette on IG, FB, LinkedIn at Violette de Ayala. About Lynn Pelzer // Lynn is the COO of FemCity and has held a chair position on boards, currently part of a DEI board with FemCity, she has been awarded the Rising Star Award and Crystal Executive Award in her previous company. She has been a contributor on podcasts as well as blogs, and has been a speaker in women's groups on the topics of business. You can connect with Lynn on Facebook or Linkedin @lynnpelzer.

Welcome back for another episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast. In the month of June we celebrate Father's Day and men's mental health, so today's episode is dedicated to the gentleman! Author, podcast host, educator and motivational speaker, Coach David Cooks joins us to share about his life experiences. At the age of 15, a spinal aneurysm rudely interrupted his high school basketball aspirations. Not allowing that to slow him down, David dedicated his life to pursuing his education, as insisted by his parents, but also his passion for basketball. Tune in to find out how he went from being paralyzed to finding his purpose.Ramp. It. Up!Get to Know our Guest David Cooks, a T-6 paraplegic, is a Speaker, a Podcast Host, a Certified Business Coach and an award -winning Author of the book “Getting Undressed – From Paralysis to Purpose”.  In his book, David encourages the reader to keep moving forward regardless of life's challenges and to put Purpose into action by helping others.  David suffered a spinal aneurysm at the age of 15. Click here for more. Website: davidcooksspeaks.comPodcast: paralysis2purpose.comLinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-cooksspeaks-mba-20001210/ Linktree: www.linktr.ee/dcespeaksResourceshttps://discoverymood.com/blog/national-mens-health-awareness-month/https://menshealthmonth.org/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comAwakening Together, Relaxing into Happiness with William Cooper, M.Th., LPCExperience Awakening....Relaxing into your Being and, therefore, Happiness. William has...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify The Future AgeWe explore creative solutions and re-imagine what life as we get older can look like.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show

We are back with another episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast. On today's episode we are closing out the month of May with some updates and good news for the wheelchair user community. Ramp. It. Up! GAAD May 18,2023https://unitedspinal.org/adaptive-technology-equals-independence-for-the-disability-community/https://unitedspinal.org/five-ways-you-can-promote-global-accessibility-awareness-day/CMS Seat Elevation https://unitedspinal.org/disability-community-celebrates-newly-expanded-medicare-benefit-for-power-wheelchairs/https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/view/ncacal-decision-memo.aspx?proposed=N&ncaid=309#:~:text=All%20%7C%20Collapse%20All-,Decision%20Summary,durable%20medical%20equipment%20(DME).FDA Approves Neuralinkhttps://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/25/elon-musks-neuralink-gets-fda-approval-for-in-human-study.htmlhttps://fb.watch/kQIBL24VIh/https://twitter.com/neuralink/status/1661857379460468736?s=20AI Helps Paralyzed Manhttps://www.goodmorningamerica.com/wellness/story/artificial-intelligence-medical-procedure-paralyzed-man-walk-99588314https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Wellness/artificial-intelligence-medical-procedure-paralyzed-man-walk/story?id=99588314https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-65689580https://fb.watch/kQIqEajVvv/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comHandiCupGet 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Welcome back for another episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast. On this episode I am joined by Fouzan Alam and Bliss Chapman from Neuralink, a neurotechnology company founded by Elon Musk. Neuralink is currently developing implantable brain–computer interfaces: building devices now that have the potential to help people with paralysis. Fouzan is a project manager on their clinical team and Bliss is a software engineer on the brain-computer interfaces team. We discuss where the company is in the process, how it will impact the SCI community, and what the future of brain-computer interface holds.Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our Guests:Fouzan is a biomedical engineer and ex-doctor working on technologies that improve people's lives and lower the barriers for access to care. His previous work includes an implantable sensor startup, a new brain scanning modality based on TMS and EEG, and low-cost high-performance spinal fusion implants. He is currently at Neuralink, on clinical data and operations. On the side, he is an angel investor, advises frontier-tech startups, and runs a small product design studio.Bliss is a lead software engineer at Neuralink. He gets very excited about anything related to 1) his new puppy and 2) how to turn brain signals into computer control. Before Neuralink, Bliss worked at Apple as a machine learning engineer in the Camera & Photos group with the explicit goal of building experiences that make his momma cry happy tears. Bliss grew up dancing classical ballet in Central Illinois where he was homeschooled alongside his 5 awesome siblings.If you are part of the SCI/D community and wanted to join the Neuralink Patient Registry click the link below.https://neuralink.com/patient-registry/ Website: https://neuralink.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/neuralinkYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@neuralinkResources:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ogANQE4l5YUhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EPUHsnN9R9Ihttps://www.wired.com/story/all-the-actually-important-stuff-neuralink-just-announced/https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/neuralink-musk-fda/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comHandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

In this episode, the ladies welcome the inspirational Natalia Mendez, Founder of Women on Wheels. WOW is a peer group for women with SCI (spinal cord injury) based in NYC. Natalia sits as a board member for NYC Spinal of the United Spinal Association. She suffered a spinal cord injury and turned her tragedy into triumph. The ladies learn about the great work Natalia does with Women on Wheels. Frankie explains how she met Natalia and how Natalia taught her to use certain parts of her tongue to taste food. Natalia also discussed sex with a disability and her first time exploring herself post injury. Follow us on Instagram & Facebook @KinkdAF Alex @alexberrioscomedy Frankie @frankiedoescomedy Khira @khirahailey Krystle @kayt06 Natalia Mendez @womenoneheelsnyc #disability #Women #ProLife #WomenWithDisabilities #Women'sRights #womenwheelers #Quadriplegic #QuadriplegicWomen #QuadriplegicLife #SpinalCordInjury #WomenWithSCI #kinkdaf #kinkdafpodcast #blackpodcasters #brownpodcasters #bipocpodcasts #spotifypodcast #applepodcast #kinksoflife #Afrolatina #Afrolatinx #kinky #kink #kinks #Latinx #affirmations #selfcare #selftalk #lettinggo #spotify #kinkdafpodcast #applepodcasts #blackpodcasters #latinxpodcaster #kinkdaf #afrolatinx #brownpodcasters #spotifypodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/kinkdaf/message

On today's episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are wrapping up Women's History Month with a good friend of mine, Erin Taylor.Get To Know Our Guest For more than 15 years, Erin Taylor has dedicated herself to advocating for health equity and promoting wellness by helping eliminate barriers and health disparities for disabled people throughout Oregon. She does this by interweaving equity, inclusion, and accessibility throughout her work and being intentional in her commitment to diversifying awareness of the vast range of disability experiences and identities. Ensuring that disabled people's voices are heard, their intersectionality is acknowledged, and their needs are met is imperative in Taylor's work. Even though Taylor's roots are with people with intellectual disabilities, she does her current work through a cross-disability lens.Taylor holds an M.A. in Disability Studies from City University New York (CUNY) and a B.A. in Communications Studies focusing on Community Health Education from Western Oregon University. She has built a strong foundation as a master trainer with expertise in creating accessible, universal, and inclusive materials for trainings, workshops, and curricula for Oregon Health and Science University's Oregon Office on Disability and Health and University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities. During the pandemic, Taylor saw a need to bring education and awareness around disability because of the injustices she saw. She recognizes that the topic of disability is very complex, nuanced, and layered, so Taylor and her partner started AIM-4-Access (Accessibility and Inclusion Matters). Creating a business allows Taylor and her partner to hold space for these conversations in ways that will leave people understanding the 'why' you should care to make our world inclusive and accessible. This business also allows Taylor to bring her passion for health promotion back into her work.Erin identifies as having non-apparent disabilities and is deeply involved and integrated with her peers from the local cross-disability, LGBTIA2S+, and social justice communities. In her free time, Taylor is a musician who enjoys photography and the beauty of the PNW. She enjoys kayaking, camping, hiking, and spending time at the coast with her partner and two dogs, Millie and Lilah.Email: Taylorridler@aim-4-access.comClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

On this episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast, in honor of Women's History Month, I am joined by Jean L. Minkel, PT, ATP. We chat about her early years as a Physical Therapist, her influence on early assistive technology, and her crusade to effect insurance policy change.Ramp. It. Up! Get To Know Our Guest  Ms. Minkel is a physical therapist and master clinician well recognized for her work in Assistive Technology.  Jean has a passion for ensuring that people with a mobility disability have access to the products and services needed to support full participation in life. Jean works directly with the disability community to identify unmet needs in product development, ableist practices in the therapy community and restrictive coverage policies which prevent access to the devices that meet the needs of the wheelchair user. Jean is currently actively involved in a campaign to revise the highly restrictive Medicare coverage policy, used by many private insurers to deny coverage of wheelchairs and accessories needed to be fully mobile in routine environments, both in the home and the community. Have you been denied for a new wheelchair or wheelchair function? Click the link below to share your story.https://unitedspinal.org/share-your-wheelchair-denial-story/Submit a Comment to CMSAre you a wheelchair user? Medicare wants to hear from YOU! Take action by March 17, 2023. We need to show Medicare that wheelchair users and people with disabilities strongly support this coverage and urge Medicare to go even further to ensure that all those who need access to these systems can get it. As you know, these systems are vital for wheelchair users to be able to:Safely transfer from a wheelchair to another surface, particularly if it is not level with your chairIncrease your reach to access higher surfaces across the homePrevent and reduce stress injuries from repetitive transfers and reachingFunction independently at home as much as possibleDescribe that seat elevation is needed for functional reach in your homeCMS is currently accepting public comments through Friday, March 17 before they finalize their decision on coverage for power seat elevation systems. Please share your story and let Medicare know how you could or do benefit from these technologies. Submit your comment hereClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

Ian Ruder is a writer, Editor in Chief, and people connector. He prides himself on bringing a well-rounded, people-first approach to his work. As the Editor of New Mobility, Ian ensures the voice of people with mobility-related disabilities is authentically represented in all their content. A wheelchair user, Ian is a passionate advocate for his community and derives great pleasure from meeting and working with his fellow wheelchair users. With over 13 years working for United Spinal Association, Ian has cultivated an extensive network of influencers, advocates, and outstanding, knowledgeable wheelchair users.Before his time with United Spinal, he worked as a freelance reporter in the Pacific Northwest, covering everything from rib eating to motor racing to local ballot initiatives. He has extensive experience writing on long forms and blogs. Ian has also worked as a copy editor and designer.Below is the link to New Mobility Magazine. If you join United Spinal Association you can get a free subscription to New Mobility.https://newmobility.com/ Thank for Listening! Follow me on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @LifePossibleKR. Here is my Linktree! https://linktr.ee/lifepossiblekr If you are enjoying the content or have feedback send me a message. I would love to hear from you! Karen

Welcome back for another episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast. It's that time of year again, Valentines Day! But before you go out and buy flowers and chocolates, you have to find yourself a date! Ryan DeRoche, peer mentor, United Spinal Association member and the host of After Dark: for men with SCI, joins me on the podcast to talk about dating after SCI from the male perspective.  Ramp. It. Up!Question of the day:What was your best/worst date experience post SCI?Get To Know Our Guest In 2011, Ryan had a mountain bike accident in Girona, Spain. He injured his C3, C4, C5, vertebrae with incomplete damage to his spinal cord at C4. When he was stable enough to fly home he spent six months at Spaulding Rehab in Boston. Since his injury he has been a peer mentor and advocate for other individuals with SCI through the Greater Boston Chapter of United Spinal Association (GBC) and Empower SCI. He also works as the Digital Media Coordinator, is a Board Member of, and leads a support group for the GBC. The long running support group he leads is called After Dark: for men with SCI which  is a safe and supportive space to discuss intimacy, sex, and relationships after a spinal cord injury. After Dark: for MEN with SCIDescription: This bi-weekly group is a safe and supportive space to discuss intimacy, sex, and relationships after a spinal cord injury. This group is for MEN only with a spinal cord injury. When: Meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 7:00pm-8:00pm ESTZoom Meeting Link (Same every meeting): https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82370780730?pwd=TlFUaE81UlFoT0UzK0RwUTEvUXk3QT09Meeting ID: 823 7078 0730Password: gbc1Phone in Number: +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)Email:  ryan@sciboston.org  Website: https://www.sciboston.org/groups Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

Welcome back for another episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast. Accessibility is an important and frequent topic of concern for wheelchair users and people with disabilities as a whole. This episode we cover some of the pain points of "accessible" transportation and what can be done to improve them. Ramp. It. Up!Question of the day:What was your worst/best experience with accessible transportation? Click here to learn how to report transportation issues.Resources:  Retired Veterans of America (RVA) Full VideoRVA Video ClipSteve Wright interview with USDOT Secretary Airlines should wheelchair spaces on airplanes All Stations Accessibility Program ADA Transportation Regulations: Provision for ParatransitFederal Transit Administration The Mobility ResourcePassenger Testimonials:Vincenzo Piscopo on the future of air travel Passenger dropped by airline staff Tanisha's transportation story Kristen's transit story Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

And we are back with a brand new season of  The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast! It's been amazing sharing my story and the stories of others with you all these past three seasons. Season four, there will be many more stories, we will talk about advocacy and accessibility, and I will share some of my adventures along the way! On this episode join me as I recap some of my favorite moments from the first three seasons.Ramp. It. Up!HAPPY NEW YEAR from the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast.History of Haitian Independence Day and Soup JoumouFavorite EpisodesSeason 1 Episode 2:  Quadriplegia: Year One Season 1  Episode 8:  25 Years in the Game Season  2  Episode 13:   Roll a mile in my shoes Season  2  Episode 16:  The Happy Quadriplegic: Arnedo Carbo Season  3  Episode 3:  Valentines Day with Leon and Tierra Harris Season  3  Episode 18:   SCI Awareness Month 2022: iAccess Life  Question of the day:What are three things you can do in 2023 to improve yourself? Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSupport the show

Only two days left 'til Christmas, and since you all have been so nice this year, Santa has brought you another episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast! Its been about two weeks since the end of the Artemis 1 Mission and my visit to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. It was an overall amazing experience and I was blessed to be a part of it. On this trip I recall the experience flying for the first time since my SCI six years ago and interacting with Alexa in SPACE!Ramp. It. Up!https://wsvn.com/news/7spotlight/south-florida-man-left-disabled-after-accident-offered-opportunity-to-work-on-amazons-artemis-i-project/https://www.miaminewtimes.com/news/disability-tech-advocate-aids-in-nasa-space-mission-15951786Taraji P. Henson's Artemis interaction Nick Jonas' Artemis interaction Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

After a long hiatus, we are back for another episode of the Ramp. It. Up! Podcast! I know I have been gone for a long time but you have to listen to this episode to find out what's been going on! No hints! No previews! I know it's a long episode but definitely worth a listen!(Ok one hint...its my 6 year SCI anniversary and a couple friends join me on the show)Ramp it up!Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

In this week's episode, Nadia and Rob lament Elon's "U up?" email to Twitter employees, discuss Wimbledon's leap into the 20th century, and chat with guest Mary Fernandez about how DEI often leaves people with disabilities behind and what companies can do. Mary Fernandez's recommendations: Crip Camp: https://cripcamp.com/ Disability Lead Organizations Autistic Advocacy Network: https://autisticadvocacy.org/ National Federation of the Blind: Nfb.org National Association of the Deaf: https://www.nad.org/ United Spinal Association:: https://unitedspinal.org/ Blogs Words to wheel by: https://emilyladau.com/ Disability wisdom: https://www.disabilitywisdom.com/blog/ Quirky quad: https://quirkyquad.com/ Hosted by Nadia Butt and Rob Hadley. Produced by Rifelion Media. Contact us: inclusivecollective@rifelion.com For advertising opportunities please email PodcastPartnerships@Studio71us.com    Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast for free wherever you're listening or by using this link: https://bit.ly/InclusiveCollective If you like the show, telling a friend about it would be amazing! You can text, email, Tweet, or send this link to a friend: https://bit.ly/InclusiveCollective Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Abilities Expo is FINALLY COMING TO MIAMI!Lew Shomer, chairman of the expo joins me on the podcast to share his experience working as an equal employment advocate and then his work bringing the Abilities Expo to a city near you.Ramp. It. Up! Podcast Click Here to Register for the Abilities Expo in MiamiWebsite: https://www.abilities.com/miami/Email: info@abilities.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abilities_expo/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lshomerhttps://twitter.com/AbilitiesExpoClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

September is just about over and to close out SCI Awareness Month, Brandon Winfield joins me on the podcast to talk about his app, iAccess Life, an app that allows the user to rate the accessibility of different restaurants, venues, and other locations worldwide. He also shares his injury and recovery story and about living life in the fast lane… literally!Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our GuestIn 2008, Brandon Winfield (he/him) was injured in a motocross accident that left him with a thoracic spinal cord injury (paralyzed from the waist down). Only 14 years old at the time, he was faced with the decision to either let this dramatic event stop him from truly living the life he wanted or to turn it into an opportunity to triumph in the face of tragedy – Brandon chose the latter. He continued his love for racing in the form of four wheels, entered sprint kart racing, and won numerous events across the country. As he traveled, he realized that although some places he visited were compliant according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), many areas were grandfathered in and never forced to retrofit to accommodate the mobility impaired.These experiences sparked the idea for iAccess, a mobile app that would allow people with disabilities to rate and review the accessibility of venues such as restaurants, lounges, clubs, and bars...Click HERE to continue reading bio.Website: https://www.iaccess.life/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iaccesslife/Linktree: https://linktr.ee/bmw937Click HERE to  Vote Brandon Winfield for United Spinal's #StrongWheeled Together AwardsClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

On this week's episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast I am joined by Dr. Guy Romain, physical therapist and owner of NeuroFit 360. We talk about his work with spinal cord injury patients, his passion for activity based therapy, and his vision for the future of the field.Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our Guest Dr. Guy Romain earned his B.S in Health Science From Montclair State University in 1995. His career started as a health educator for at risk youth at the Englewood's Health Department in New Jersey. He moved to Florida 2 years later to start his physical therapy educational journey at Nova Southeastern University and obtained his Master of Physical Therapy in 2003. His experience in all aspects of physical therapy is extensive including but not limited to: sports, orthopedic, manual therapy, pediatric and neurological injury. In 2012, he took on the challenge to mend the void in neuro recovery and wellness and opened NeuroFit360. Guy completed his DPT with a specialty in neuro recovery from the Neuro Recovery Institute. His passion is so evident; he shows up to work ready to tackle the challenges that both him and his clients face everyday.Website: https://www.neurofit360.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurofit360/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neurofit.gymPhone number: (954) 252-8020  Email: administration@neurofit360.com Address: 10062 Griffin Rd, Cooper City, FL 33328Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

Paul is joined by Mitchell Tepper, PhD, MPH, who has been integral in developing United Spinal Association's Tech Access Program and leader of its Atlanta Chapter. Dr. Tepper is a journalist who contributes regularly to New Mobility Magazine, and a sexuality educator and counselor. He recently founded an adaptive E-sports program with competitive teams (Nerve … Continue reading Adaptive Gaming with Dr. Mitchell Tepper →

The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast is back! After a brief yet painful hiatus, we are back with a lot to talk about! A lot of things happened in August and we must catch up and ROCKET headfirst into September. I've got big news to share. In fact you can say the news is METEORIC! Some would say we got lucky but I say the PLANETS aligned perfectly! I really hope you guys are grasping the GRAVITY of the announcement I have to share! I'm sure the suspense is killing you so let's go ahead and LAUNCH into the episode!Ramp. It. Up!Resources:Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month https://www.themiamiproject.org/september-sci-awareness/https://www.themiamiproject.org/2022-sci-awareness-month-video-2/https://unitedspinal.org/spinal-cord-injury-awareness-month/Student Loan Forgiveness https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellationhttps://studentaid.gov/debt-relief-announcement/https://www.disabilitydischarge.com/Artemis I Mission https://www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis-i/https://www.nasa.gov/feature/callisto-technology-demonstration-to-fly-aboard-orion-for-artemis-ihttps://www.aboutamazon.com/news/devices/alexa-take-me-to-the-moonhttps://www.amazonfutureengineer.com/space https://unitedspinal.org/united-spinal-invited-by-amazon-to-participate-in-virtual-crew-for-nasas-artemis-i-mission/ Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

On today's episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are talking about Recreational Therapy. An often overlooked and underappreciated branch of the rehabilitation process, recreational therapy has been instrumental in my recovery and the recovery of countless others. My friend and long time recreational therapist, Laura Ridler joins me on the show to share about her more than 30 years experience as a Rec Therapist. Her career has taken her to Hawaii, back to the mainland and all over the states as a basketball coach, a therapist, and an overall wellness activist! Tune in for a great conversation and remember, all work and no RECREATION makes Jack a dull boy!Ramp. It. Up! Get to Know Our Guest Laura Ridler is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist/ Recreation Therapist at Rehabilitation Institute of Oregon, Legacy Good Samaritan and Inpatient Pediatric Rehab and Development at Randall Children's Hospital-Legacy Emanuel.  With  30 years working in the field of Therapeutic Recreation/ Recreation Therapy, Laura believes in promoting overall fitness, well-being and working towards improving, maintaining or restoring physical strength, cognition, mobility and independence though wellness, health, recreation, life and sport. Laura has been involved in coaching, promoting or coordinating adaptive sports for 30 years with 23 years coordinating the Wheelchair Division of the Honolulu Marathon, 9 years as the Head Coach of the Jr/Prep WheelBlazers. Laura believes that participating in leisure activities that one enjoys, helps define us, and motivates us to be the best that we can be.Some of her career highlights are really finding out what each person finds joy in and how can I help them get back to that in some form or other where they feel quality of life and purpose.  https://adaptivesportsnw.org/board/laura-ridler/https://www.nctrc.org/about-ncrtc/about-recreational-therapy/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.iHandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

On this episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are talking about Hurricane/Disaster Preparedness. June 1 through November 30 is  officially hurricane season. Natural disasters  are dangerous enough, but being a wheelchair user can further complicate them. As a veteran of many hurricane seasons, five of them post spinal cord injury, I've learned a thing or two about getting prepared. Listen and  share this episode to make sure that you and your family are prepared for this hurricane season!Ramp. It. Up!ResourcesRed Cross: Prepare for a stormCDC: Hurricane Preparedness United Spinal Association: Ready To RollClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

Vincenzo Piscopo: A champion of inclusion and accessibility for the disability community -  Accessibility, an essential component of DEI&A (diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility), is the process of making opportunities, environments, services and products available and usable by all people. Ablism—discrimination in favor of able-bodies people—is the reason accessibility is so important. In their discussion today, Vincenzo Piscopo talks to Ramona about his work in inclusion and accessibility and his impact in empowering organizations to leverage the skills and talents of people with disabilities. An immigrant from Venezuela and seasoned Diversity & Inclusion professional, Vincenzo took the reins of the United Spinal Association—a disability rights pioneer and the largest membership organization of people with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCI/D) in the United States—after a long foray in corporate philanthropy with the Coca-Cola Company. Vincenzo is also the founder of the Wheels of Happiness Foundation. He lives in Alpharetta, Georgia. To learn more about Vincenzo Piscopo, visit https://unitedspinal.org.

On today's episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are talking about being a dad! With Father's Day coming up this weekend we wanted to honor the fathers and father figures! Luis Amaro, peer mentor, athlete, motivational speaker, and Vice President of the Spinal Cord Injury Support Group Miami chapter, is one of those fathers. During our conversation he shares his spinal cord injury story and his experience as a father.Ramp. It. Up!The Spinal Cord Injury Support Group (SCISG) Resources https://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/g19621074/cool-fathers-day-gifts-ideas/https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/fathers-day/g19682410/fathers-day-activities/https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/jul/18/our-dad-is-onwheels-jarred-mcginnis-father-in-a-wheelchairhttp://www.shieldhealthcare.com/community/spinal-cord-injury/2020/08/20/can-i-be-a-good-father-with-a-spinal-cord-injury/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEAEmail: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

On today's episode of the podcast we are discussing the topic of Gun Violence. June 3 is Wear Orange Day and kicks off Gun Violence Awareness Weekend. As a nation, we are plagued by gun violence and mass shootings. The topic of guns is very divisive and often times politicized. Tune in for more information on gun violence awareness and how we can get involved.Ramp. It. Up!Wear OrangeAbout Wear Orange/Gun Violence Awareness WeekendWays to Participate ResourcesSchool Shootings Since ColumbineMass Shootings in the U.S. 16 Facts About Gun Violence and School ShootingsSpinal Cord Injury Statistics  The Daily ShowJordan Klepper and the “good guy with a gun” Michael Kosta goes to Switzerland Debunking excuses for gun violence Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkshttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZAnH8I6sGEf7SJ9OKw8dEA Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

This episode, Judy interviews Joshua Basile. They discusses Josh's experience acquiring a disability and his journey to becoming an advocate in many areas. He shares his goals for disabled people to thrive, not just survive by creating community, improving Medicaid programs, increasing employment opportunities, and so much more. The transcript for this podcast episode is available here. About Joshua Basile Joshua Basile is a 36-year-old power wheelchair user, C4-5 quadriplegic, trial attorney, disability rights advocate, community leader, consultant, public speaker, inventor, and philanthropist. In 2004, Mr. Basile's life was flipped upside down while on a family vacation in Delaware when a wave slammed him headfirst into the ocean floor rendering him paralyzed below the shoulders. He woke up 14 days later at the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland with a ventilator in his neck which was keeping in him alive and helping him to breathe. Mr. Basile did not let his paralysis stop him from finding his voice and wheeling after his goals. Shortly after his injury, he formed the 501(c)3 nonprofit Determined2Heal Foundation, Inc. which empowers and educates those impacted by spinal cord injury on how to live active healthy lifestyles. He founded SPINALpedia.com the world's largest video mentoring network for the paralysis community with over 22,000 videos. He has personally mentored over 1500 families impacted by spinal cord injury. He is a board member of the United Spinal Association, the acting Secretary, and sits on the Strategic Planning Committee. In 2013, Mr. Basile graduated magna cum laude from law school and is a trial attorney with Jack H Olender & Associates. He is a seasoned disability rights advocate and has successfully put forward numerous initiatives and policies at the State and Federal level to break down barriers for people with disabilities. He is passionate about changing existing narratives for people with disabilities as it pertains to independent living, transportation, employment, and web accessibility. Related Links: Washington Post Article "A Spirit the Waves Couldn't Break" Fuel Service App Determined2Heal Foundation Inc. SPINALpedia Accessibility.com Interview This episode's Ask Judy question came from John Beach. If you'd like to submit a question for Ask Judy, send it to media@judithheumann.com or DM Judy on Instagram or Twitter. Find a shortened video version of this interview on Judy's YouTube channel.  Outro music by Gaelynn Lea: https://violinscratches.com/ 

On today's episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast I sit down with advocate, athlete, dancer, techy, Madison Russell, and we discuss her journey as a wheelchair user and her career in digital accessibility. With Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD) right around the corner we also discuss the importance of making the digital space universally accessible.Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our GuestsMadison is a T5 incomplete paraplegic, and her injury was caused by syringomyelia, a cyst within the spinal cord. She is originally from Atlanta, GA. She is a recent graduate from Rochester Institute of Technology with a degree in Human-Centered Computing focusing on digital accessibility, and is a published accessibility researcher. She is a member of the United Spinal Tech Access Group and currently works for Elsevier as a digital accessibility intern. Outside of school, Madison is a dancer focusing mostly on hip-hop and lyrical dance, as well as jazz and modern. She takes classes with the Rollettes, a wheelchair dance team based in Los Angeles, Madison also received a grant from the Kelly Brush Foundation in summer 2021 to purchase a custom racing handcycle to compete in national races.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madisonisqueer/Tech Access: https://unitedspinal.org/madison-russell/Resources https://accessibility.day/about/https://www.thespruce.com/special-days-and-observances-in-may-4176574Join some TAG members for a GAAD Livestream on Facebook on Thursday, May 19th at 2p (est) / 11a (pst).  https://www.facebook.com/unitedspinalassociationClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show

On today's episode of the podcast, Tatiana Ribeiro joins us to celebrate Mother's Day a little early. We talk about her life back in Brazil, moving to the States after her spinal cord injury, and daily life as a wheelchair user all while being a bad ass mom of two.Ramp. It. Up!Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

On today's episode of the podcast, we are talking about money! Specifically SSI/SSDI benefits. Navigating the benefits System is not a simple task and often times legal representation is needed. Attorney Jeff Minde joins me on the show and talks about his 30+ your career in social work and practicing law and literally helping write the book when it comes to income after disability. We talk insurance, housing, and special needs trusts and a whole lot more.Ramp. It. Up!Website: https://www.nsnn.com/disability-trust-management/Phone: 954-257-2586Email: JMINDE@COMCAST.NETDISCLAIMER: The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this episode are for general informational purposes only. The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Before you decide to hire an attorney, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience. The information at this Site is not, and is not intended to be, legal advice. Jeffrey H. Minde, Esq. and Jeffrey H. Minde Attorney And Counselor At Law P.A. neither accept requests for legal advice nor offer specific legal advice over the internet.Resources https://choosework.ssa.gov/https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/disability/https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/ssi/https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show (https://cash.app/$RhonelCinous)

Get To Know Our GuestMichaela Devins is a mental health counselor who has been a C4-C5 quadriplegic for eleven years; in that time, she has lived in Upstate New York, Philadelphia, and now Cambridge, Massachusetts with her husband Kyle and service dog Chicory.  She attended graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia and completed her Masters there in professional mental health counseling in 2019. Since then, she has worked in outpatient mental health in Center City Philadelphia and now in the Boston area. She is working toward her licensure and hopes to someday build a private practice that will specifically cater to the mental health needs of disabled people. Michaela is also involved in advocacy through United Spinal's tech access group and as a member of the consumer advisory board for Neuralink. In her free time, she loves to read, sing with the Metropolitan Chorale of Brookline, and explore new places to travel! Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/thewheelchairdiaries/Links: https://unitedspinal.org/michaela-devins/https://unitedspinal.org/dont-be-ashamed-to-ask-for-help-with-anxiety/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/HandiCup Get 15% OFF when you buy your HandiCup with Discount Code RAMPITUP15Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

WHO DOESN'T LIKE RECIEVING A BONUS!?Well lucky you, this week you'll be getting just that! On this bonus episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast I share about my experience at the HIMSS 2022 Global Health Conference in Orlando, Florida. Make sure to check out our Social Media for pictures and videos.Ramp. It. Up!https://www.himss.org/global-conference/session-innovations-driving-patient-engagementResources What Makes a Hotel Room Wheelchair Accessible?How to use a Hoyer Patient Lift to transfer a patient from their Wheelchair to a BedClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show (https://cash.app/$RhonelCinous)

On this weeks episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast I am joined by fellow comic book and Japanese anime enthusiast and United Spinal Association member, Stefan Henry. He shares how he had to navigate life after sustaining a spinal cord injury only 14 years old and turned a love for comic books into a career in mechanical engineering. We also discuss being Black men and being disabled in today's society and much more!Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our GuestsStefan Henry grew up as a big fan of comics and animé, building Legos and yearning to follow in Tony Stark's footprints as the next Iron Man. A C5-6 SCI from a car accident at 14 only increased his desire to build an exoskeleton. As a 32 year old man born in Brooklyn to Vincentian parents, today he lives a dual life that Stark would envy: Mechanical engineer for the MTA by day and  CEO of an assistive device company by night.Website: https://www.levelthecurve.com/#AboutInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/levelthecurve/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/levelthecurveLinkTree: https://linktr.ee/LevelTheCurveClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show (https://cash.app/$RhonelCinous)

Today on The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are talking about assistive technology. Ana Nevares, Assistive Technology And Education Specialist at FAAST, joins me talk about how the organization educates the community on assistive technology and helps connect individuals with the proper devices and the means to procure them.Ramp. It. Up!Get To Know Our Guest Ana Nevares, M.A., is a state-certified special education teacher. She is a native Spanish speaker and has coordinated the South Florida Regional FAAST program for the past 10 years. She has extensive experience providing trainings on assistive technology, educating individuals and professionals on how these devices can support education, employment, and/or daily life. Additionally, she serves as a master coach in the supervision of educational specialists who are training to work one-on-one with teachers in support of AT in the classroom.University of Miami Mailman Center for Child Development1601 NW 12th Avenue, #2018Miami, FL 33136Tel: 305-243-5706TTY: 305-243-7885ANevares@Med.Miami.EduResourceshttps://faast.org/ https://at3center.net/state-at-programs/https://www.disabilityrightswa.org/publications/assistive-technology-special-education-students/https://www.atia.org/home/at-resources/https://www.resna.org/AboutHappy International Women's Dayhttps://www.internationalwomensday.com/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2022/03/07/international-womens-day-2022-theme/9413398002/https://www.workflowmax.com/blog/10-excellent-ways-to-celebrate-international-womens-dayClick the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks: JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comBoss Girl Trucking: ROAD MAP TO BUSINESS CREDITA Step by Step Guide on building Business Credit. Get the strategies on how to access $50K to $100k in funding!Website: https://bossgirltruckin.samcart.com/products/roadmap-to-business-credit/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossgirltrucking/Support the show (https://cash.app/$RhonelCinous)

Living with an incomplete spinal cord injury at C5 of her spine from a diving accident, Annie Streit's life goals changed course from creating a career for herself as an interior designer to a desire to help others.Annie shares how attitude, a strong support system including members of the spinal cord injury community, friends, and family, and helping others through motivational speaking and volunteering with the United Spinal Association as the grassroots advocacy director has helped her build success in her life as an author of children's books.You can purchase any of Annie's children's books through Amazon by clicking here.You can connect with Annie by visiting her website at https://annieauthorblog.com/You can connect with the United Spinal Association by visiting their website at https://unitedspinal.org/Join the conversation with your fellow #DefineYourselfers in the #DefineYourself Community on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/dfyscommunityHey #DefineYourselfers, I am the Chris Mitchell. I want to let you know that I am looking for guests for a new podcast I am launching in June. Guests should identify as both successful and disabled. So, if you identify as successful and living with any type of disability: physical, visual, hearing, learning, mental I want to hear from you. Send me an email at Chris@thechrismitchell.com. That is Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/DefineYourself)

On this weeks episode of The Ramp. It. Up! Podcast we are getting you ready for Valentine's Day! Love may be in the air for many, but post spinal cord injury it is sometimes a little harder to get back into the dating game. On this episode I share a couple pieces of advice  to take into consideration before getting back into the dating pool. Also I share a list of 10 wheelchair friendly date ideas. Ramp. It. Up!Dating With A Disabilitypopsugar.com/love/dating-with-disability-advice-48514421 https://www.bbc.co.uk/bbcthree/article/3fd6b74d-e71e-4327-b2f7-3257e6a3c1eahttps://www.abilities.com/community/dating.htmlWheelchair Friendly Dates Hollywood Beach Boardwalk Art/Science Museum iPic TheaterWynwood Art District Outdoor Festival/ConcertAmusement ParkZoo/Aquarium Netflix and ChillCooking Together/Cooking Class Boat Tours More Date Ideashttps://kdsmartwheelchair.com/15-date-ideas-for-wheelchair-users/#Winery_Tourhttps://www.specialbridge.com/first-date-ideas-for-wheelchair-users/https://thegirlwhosits.com/2018/05/22/12-date-ideas/Click the link below to register for the United Spinal Association's TechTalkhttps://unitedspinal.org/events/techtalks/Stay Connected to the PodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.comSpecial Thanks Sponsors:JWoods CompanyContact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comJ. Woods Company Food & Entertainment Let J.Woods Cater to your special event needs!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Annie is the Grassroots Advocacy Manager for United Spinal Association and a power chair user for over 16 years. This was a fun episode, some great information and a few laughs to go with it. Link to all of our podcasts: https://www.spinal-network.org/links-to-listen-to-our-podcast/ Please subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCObjE4UC61TvwvQxiVcUEaA Annies Monthly Advocacy Live Show: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Funitedspinal.org%2Fevents%2Fadvocacy-live-at-5pm%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR25XXb4DmNqzroFpae5QsvXbHZS87LNiVXxIxOgUJ2syB3g8GYih0JRkQw&h=AT2Qaya0k9OigdbkQNsPzNTBala8HVd7s9V2_LmauEdUvEqM-DClr2IsymH_m_7lejyEOWyHAeakc0WuVFT9XYfeDO2M-i_AcYBxdNHFY7at-MfkEPF7K88wt6BByeLUHQ&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT2aRbxD-E-nGra9Ye27bFuodnooWWPRzgjk6xx1T0RnvfXl7TbW3AsXF7msHgNKeLeuSYtSv_2DdKsW8zM5i1xV3Z25ztkaXbl6ONIECABa12-4f0YtZU0baEygrq2923Wr7_DIKcpnW_yMZQyQdCtB0oruBlZVSbLMwnrJ4hGkya1o

Happy Christmas Eve Eve everyone! Today my podcast just got a little merrier! I had the pleasure of interviewing Karen RoyI first connected with Karen a couple of years ago on LinkedIn and during my first Abilities Expo in Phoenix, I got to meet her in person!What makes Karen unique is how she has handled adversity since the spinal cord injury she sustained in 1987, as the result of a gunshot wound to the back. She was the victim of an armed Robbery during her sophomore year at Louisiana State University.After completing her rehabilitation, she went on to finish her BA in Psychology. Next, sheobtained a Master's Degree in Social Work, also from Louisiana State University, and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1996. Most of her Social Work career was spent working with patients in physical rehabilitation hospitals. For the past six years, she has worked at Numotion and is now the Numotion Brand Ambassador. In her role as Brand Ambassador Karen hosts a disability-related podcast, which is called Life Possible with a Disability and can be found on most podcast platforms. Karen also works in both government and payer relations as part of her role with Numotion. Another passion of Karen's is co-leading the Numotion Disability ERG, the Disability Alliance Network.Karen's passion is advocacy for people with disabilities. This includes over a decade of being on the board for the Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Association of Louisiana, which is also the Louisiana Chapter of United Spinal Association. Karen is also the State Coordinator for Ms. Wheelchair Louisiana and an active peer mentor for the United Spinal Association. She was Ms. Wheelchair Louisiana 2018 and won Ms. Wheelchair America 2019. The Ms. Wheelchair America organization's competition is completely based on the woman's history of advocacy and the ability to articulate her platform.Please give her a follow on social media @lifepossiblekr or Life Possible with Karen RoyFollow me @offthecrutchpod

In 2011, Ryan had a mountain bike accident in Girona, Spain while working with Trek Tavel. He injured his spine at the C4 vertebrae. When he returned to the United States after doing his acute rehab in Barcelona, Spain, he was med-flighted back to the USA where he spent invaluable time in the Inpatient Rehab at Spaulding in Boston.  He attended Empower Spinal Cord Injury (Empower SCI) in 2012 and 2013 where he learned how to be more independent and to get out of his comfort zone. In 2015 he co-founded an annual fundraiser called Knobby Tire Ride and Roll to benefit Empower SCI which brings his love of mountain biking back to the disabled community while raising nearly 40,000USD to date for the organization.  Because of Ryan's exposure to the amazing peer mentors while at Spaulding and Empower SCI, he became a mentor with the Great Boston Chapter of the United Spinal Association (GBC) in 2014. Three years later he became a board member and has put his experience in logistics, event planning, and management to good use in various chapter committees. He also took on the role of Digital Media Coordinator in 2018.  Instagram: @ryan.deroche Instagram: @oliverwonderdog Instagram: @sciboston Instagram:@knobby_tire_ride   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.deroche Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sciboston Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KnobbytireRR   Websites:  www.ryanderoche.net www.sciboston.org https://knobby-tire.squarespace.com   Please make donations to: Greater Boston Chapter of United Spinal Association: https://sciboston.salsalabs.org/donationpage/index.html Empower SCI: https://www.empowersci.org/donate.html It's Men's Month of Survive to Thrive! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share! Movember Mo: https://www.movember.com

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Adam Lane joins the podcast to talk about his life journey from an accident that left him paralyzed from the belly button down, to then competing in triathlons, to his coming plans of hand-cycling across America. Adam's goal is to raise $1 million dollars and awareness for the United Spinal Association. Follow Adam's journey on his website adamklane.com and on Instagram @2022handcycleacrossamerica Chris Baker IG/Twitter - @thebakeishere & @rabidrabbithole pellucidcreation.com Summer Days by Scandinavianz | https://soundcloud.com/scandinavianz Music promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.com Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US

About Today's GuestDanielle Applegate is the Director of Veteran and Military Engagement for Cerner Government Services. Prior to joining Cerner, she served as the Vice President of VetsFirst at the United Spinal Association, a VA-certified Veteran Service Organization. She was the first National Outreach Coordinator for the Department of Veterans Affairs' Center for Women Veterans, where she created and led groundbreaking women Veteran initiatives and nationwide VA programming. Ms. Applegate also founded Applegate Solutions, a successful Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned, Woman Owned Small Business that provided management consulting and subject matter expertise to an array of clients including the Departments of Commerce, Defense, Homeland Security, and Veterans Affairs, as well as private and nonprofit organizations.A fourth-generation Veteran with dual-military parents, Danielle enlisted at the ripe old age of 17 in the United States Army and served for five years; her duty included a tour in Korea. Due to service-connected injuries, she left active duty and utilized Vocational Rehabilitation services and the Montgomery GI Bill to complete a Bachelor's degree in Human Resources and Business Administration, a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Massachusetts, and a certificate from Georgetown University in Nonprofit Executive Management. As a distinguished military and Veteran community subject matter expert and advocate, she has served on the Advisory Council for Final Salute, on the Women Joining Forces Council for Business and Professional Women's Foundation, the American Legion's Small Business Council, and the Camp Lejeune Community Action Panel. A self-professed data nerd who enjoys absorbing as much information as possible, she resides in Alexandria, VA where she is currently being raised by a son and daughter who are convinced that they know it all. Links Mentioned In This EpisodeCerner Military and Veteran SupportVA's I Am Not Invisible CampaignVA/ DoD Electronic Healthcare Record Modernization VA Center for Women VeteransPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThe PsychArmor resource for this week is resource of the week is PsychArmor's S.A.V.E. training. This course was developed in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs and is presented by Dr. Megan McCarthy, Deputy Director, Suicide Prevention. You will develop a general understanding of the problem of suicide in the United States; understand how to identify a Veteran who may be at risk for suicide; and, finally, know what to do if you identify a Veteran at risk. Each of us has the opportunity to be that one person who makes a difference--the person who asks the question that can save a Veteran's life, or the life of anyone struggling with the thoughts of suicide. Using the simple steps of S.A.V.E., we can all make a difference. You can find the course at https://psycharmor.org/courses/s-a-v-e/ This Episode Sponsored By:This episode is sponsored by PsychArmor, the premier education and learning ecosystem specializing in military culture content. PsychArmor offers an online e-learning laboratory with custom training options for organizations.Join Us on Social Media PsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com

On this episode of United on Wheels Paul is joined by Stephen Lieberman, Director of Policy and Advocacy at United Spinal Association. They speak on the importance of District Mobilization. This is a must listen, tune in now!

On this episode of United on Wheels, Paul is joined by Christine Golden and Johnny Parker from our Vetsfirst Team. Did you know that prior to being called United Spinal, we were actually named “Eastern Paralyzed Veterans Association?” Tune in to learn a bit about the Vetsfirst Team and what they do for our veterans.

Today, we launch a 10-month series amplifying the Patient Voice while focusing on  designing and using new  technology. Each month, we will be interviewing a new patient advocate who personally and professionally knows the importance of developing technology to manage their health but the struggle to find a company who truly innovates for their end-user: the patient.  On this week's episode, Kerry Amato will speak to Brook McCall, Director of the Tech Access Initiative, for the United Spinal Association about the importance of involving the patient from the start in designing technology. Brooke will discuss her own personal journey as a patient, beginning with advocating for herself and how that evolved into a professional calling where she advocates for millions more each day. For more information on the United Spinal Association, Tech Access Council, view here.To reach out to Brook McCall directly, email bmccall@unitedspinal.org

Episode 23 - Interview with Hector Del Valle & Willis Washington: Co-Hosts of Living The Balanced Life, a video talk show that brings in experts from key areas of life to share their knowledge with the community. Hector and Willis are both disability advocates, having met at a national conference on independent living in Washington, DC over ten years ago. Living The Balanced Life is a program of L.I.F.T.  - Legacy Impact Foundation Team - which advocates for affordable accessible housing and provides information on community resources, particularly for people with disabilities.Living The Balanced Life was started in 2020 in the midst of the COVID pandemic as a way to reach out and connect people who were isolated, particularly people with disabilities. Living The Balanced Life will resume in Spring 2021 with its much-anticipated second season to focus on going forward in all aspects of health: physical, mental, social, financial and spiritual.Legacy Impact Foundation Team (L.I.F.T.) - www.liflives.org (website under construction as of 3/3/21 - will update once it goes live!willis@liftlives.org.  mswhectordelvalle@gmail.comGiving Heart Beat Facebook Group Coming Soon!Donna Lee Valente  @DonnaLeeValente GivingHeartBeat@gmail.comPodcast Merch!! Now Available in Canada and Australia!!

On this special episode of United On Wheels, our host, Paul Amadeus Lane is joined by the new CEO of United Spinal Association, Vincenzo “Enzo” Piscopo. Listen to Enzo’s injury story, his vision for United Spinal, his family life, tennis and much more! Tune in now!

Check out the United Spinal Association https://unitedspinal.org/https://www.newmobility.com/http://unitedonwheels.blubrry.net/disaster-recovery-preparation/POTUS and FLOTUS have COVID-19https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-coronavirus-positive/index.htmlhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKYfe7vk0WgPresidential Debate 2020https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHFI8TsSKXY&t=4113sMail In Voting Infohttps://dos.myflorida.com/elections/for-voters/voting/vote-by-mail/https://dos.myflorida.com/elections/for-voters/voting/accessible-voting-for-persons-with-disabilities/https://dos.elections.myflorida.com/supervisors/https://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/2020/09/20/florida-amendments-2020-ballot-november/3483501001/Florida Re-Opens https://www.sun-sentinel.com/coronavirus/fl-ne-south-florida-covid-reopenings-saturday-20200926-xaayvksrx5ezviskuivwgri2yu-story.htmlhttps://www.miamiherald.com/news/coronavirus/article246212885.htmlStay Connected to the Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramp.it.up.podcast/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZoeOnWheelz/Email: rampituppodcast@gmail.com Special Thanks Sponsors:JWoods Company Contact JWoods Company for all of your catering and special event needs.Website: https://www.jwoodscompany.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jwoodscompany/Email: contact@jwoodscompany.comSupport the show

Join United on Wheels as we speak to Senator Tom Harkin about his work on the ADA. Senator Harkin was one of the key players and sponsor of the Americans with disabilities Act. Today’s talk is hosted by Alex Bennewith and includes the CEO and President of United Spinal Association, Jim Weisman. They are joined … Continue reading Senator Tom Harkin on the 30th Anniversary of the ADA →

On today’s episode of United On Wheels, Paul “Amadeus” Lane will have a candid conversation with Jim Weisman, the President and CEO of United Spinal Association. This is a special time as the 30th anniversary of the ADA is right around the corner. Jim Weisman has been on the front line of disability rights and … Continue reading Meet Jim Weisman, President and CEO of United Spinal Association →

Purple Heart Honoree, Vietnam Veteran ~ Ronald Drach is a subject matter expert in military and veterans issues with more than 50 years of experience. After losing a leg as a result of combat in Vietnam, Ron medically retired from the U.S. Army in 1967 with a Purple Heart. Soon after, he focused his life on working to help his fellow disabled veterans. Following nearly three years with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), he joined the staff of the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in 1970. Beginning in DAV’s Pittsburgh office, Ron rapidly rose to become the organization’s national employment director in 1975. He was the first Vietnam veteran to be appointed a director at DAV. In this post, he established the reputation he maintains today as one of the nation’s foremost authorities on employment issues impacting veterans and others whose lives have been affected by disabilities. Ron’s responsibilities led him to provide significant input into America’s response to the needs of veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, homelessness, racial and gender discrimination and other socio-economic issues. He became a leading voice on questions involving Social Security disability benefits, as well as efforts to remove barriers that impede the lives and employment of people with disabilities. Many times throughout his career, Ron has appeared before congressional committees, offering expertise and recommendations for legislative change. After leaving the DAV, Ron was employed by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (DOL/VETS). As the director of government and legislative affairs, he was responsible for working with congressional staff, the Department’s Office of the Solicitor and others within the agency on all legislative employment issues that affect the departments of Defense, Labor and Veterans Affairs. He is currently the president of Drach Consulting. Throughout the years, Ron has served on many commissions that strive to enhance the lives of disabled veterans and other people with disabilities. Ron recently served as a member of DOD’s Recovering Warrior Task Force after being appointed by former DOD Secretary Gates. He has also served on the governing boards of the President’s Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities, the National Coalition of Homeless Veterans, the National Resource Directory and others. Ron’s high-profile volunteer activity has included service as a team leader for the U.S. Paralympics Sitting Volleyball Team that competed in the 2000 International Paralympics Competition in Sydney, Australia. He was one of the founders and served as a member of the Board of Directors for the Wounded Warrior Project including four years as its president. He currently serves on the Boards of United Spinal Association and TransCen. He also serves in an advisory capacity to ThanksUSA and the DC Metro Business Leadership Network and chairs their Wounded Warrior Committee. Ron is also a co-author and co-editor of the Warrior Transition Leader Medical Rehabilitation Handbook. He is a frequent contributor to the DC Metro Business Leadership Network’s electronic newsletter. Ron lives in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, D.C., with his wife, Carolyn, a retired financial analyst for the Federal Reserve. They have two adult daughters, Tiffany and Amber, and two grandchildren. All Rights Reserved © 2020 BuildingAbundantSuccess!! Join Me on ~ iHeart Radio @ https://tinyurl.com/iHeartBAS Spot Me on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/yxuy23ba Join Me on Facebook @ Facebook.com/BuildingAbundantSuccess

Powerhouse PT Erin Michael has been passionate about physical therapy from an early age. Specializing in spinal cord injury rehab, Erin heads the seating clinic, and is the manager of Patient Advocacy and Special Programs at the Kennedy Krieger Institute. She is an executive member of the Clinicians Task Force and a representative for the United Spinal Association.Please join me today for a conversation with and glimpse into the mind of Erin Michael.

Join us as we continue our Pathways to Employment series here at United Spinal Association. On today's episode of United on Wheels Barbara Kornblau will talk with Allsup Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mary Dale Walters. Together they will discuss the great work that Allsup does to help get individuals with disabilities working … Continue reading United's Pathways to Employment: What is Allsup? →

Maybe you have a firm grasp on what being an Advocate is all about? This episode explores different ways people with disabilities, their allies, and their caregivers practice advocacy. Whether you're searching for the best healthcare options, leading a support group, mentoring newbies, meeting with legislators, or using social media to get a message out -- it's all about advocacy. Nancy Husari, a retired college instructor with Parkinson's disease, felt empowered by her advocacy experiences at California's state capitol and in Washington, DC. Brook McCall, Grassroots Advocacy Manager for the United Spinal Association talks about her work. Marla Murasko, a Down Syndrome Mom Advocate, shares her advice and experience using social media platforms for advocacy. Nina G., comedian, professional speaker, storyteller, writer and educator, discusses how to be a disability ally.

Stay@Work/Return2Work These podcasts are the inspirational stories of individuals with SCI who have participated in the Resource Facilitation Program at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation and successfully returned to work – whether in a previous position or a new one. In sharing these stories, we aim to keep hope alive and remind those in similar situations that every day brings with it new possibilities. The study, which is funded by a Craig H. Neilsen grant to Kessler Foundation, includes the participation of the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and United Spinal Association.  This episode was recorded, edited, and produced by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer for Kessler Foundation on October 5th, 2017 at Kessler Foundation, 120 Eagle Rock Ave, East Hanover, NJ   Our first episode MaryLea West, project coordinator for the Return 2 Work early intervention program at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation met with Megan Helsel, a Wildlife Specialist for the United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. In early October 2016, Ms. Helsel experienced sudden back pain and bilateral numbness in both legs. She was rushed to a local emergency room where an MRI showed that a hemangioma (tumor) had ruptured in her spinal cord. Unable to stand or walk, she was admitted to the hospital and prescribed a high dose of steroids to reduce swelling. Two days later, after showing no improvement, Ms. Helsel was told that she would need immediate spinal cord surgery. After surgery, Megan was transferred to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation where she immediately began physical therapy. On her 11th day, she took her first steps. This is Megan's story...

Stay@Work/Return2Work These podcasts are the inspirational stories of individuals with SCI who have participated in the Resource Facilitation Program at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation and successfully returned to work – whether in a previous position or a new one. In sharing these stories, we aim to keep hope alive and remind those in similar situations that every day brings with it new possibilities. The study, which is funded by a Craig H. Neilsen grant to Kessler Foundation, includes the participation of the New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services and United Spinal Association.  This episode was recorded, edited, and produced by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer for Kessler Foundation on October 5th, 2017 at Kessler Foundation, 120 Eagle Rock Ave, East Hanover, NJ In our second episode MaryLea West, project coordinator for the Return 2 Work early intervention program at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation met with Craig B. Brod a practicing attorney and partner at the international, NYC-based law-firm, Cleary Gottlieb Steen and Hamilton. Mr. Brod spent the past 38 years practicing law with little interruption. That was until January of 2017, when he was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a disorder in which the body's immune system attacks part of the peripheral nervous system. Mr. Brod first began noticing symptoms of GBS when he returned from traveling abroad, where he and others experienced an intestinal infection. Everyone recovered. Initially, Mr. Brod felt unilateral pain down one leg and believed it was sciatica. The symptoms soon progressed to include extreme weakness, tingling sensations, and numbness in both legs. Unable to walk, he called 911. Mr. Brod was taken to Overlook Hospital in Summit, New Jersey, and there he was diagnosed.   Mr. Brod’s symptoms increased in intensity over the next four weeks. He experienced complete paralysis and lost the ability to speak, eat, drink, and breathe independently.   He was brought to Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in February 2017, determined to attend his oldest son’s graduation in May that academic year. This is Mr. Brod’s story…

Joyce welcomes James J. Weisman, senior vice president and general counsel of the United Spinal Association, and renowned, ground-breaking figure of the disability rights movement whose legal strategizing was critical to the creation of the transportation section of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Mr. Weisman will discuss his friendship with the late, Paul Hearne, co-founder of the American Association of People with Disabilities ( AAPD), and his gradual move toward disability law as a career to help people with disabilities fight discrimination.

This coming July marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  But, just how far have we come in securing equal access and equal opportunity for all, and what more needs to be done?As part of WFUV's Strike a Chord campaign focused on efforts to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, we teamed up with Bronxnet for a special panel discussion.Our guests included:James Weisman.  James is an ADA pioneer and civil rights advocate.  He's been involved in the disability rights movement since the beginning.  James currently serves as the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of United Spinal Association. Edith Prentiss, chair of the Taxis for All Campaign. And...Miranda Appelbaum.  Miranda is Senior Manager of Accessibility and Visitor Services at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.  She's also the chair of the steering committee for the Museum Access Consortium.  The Consortium works to improve access to cultural resources throughout New York City, including museums and botanical gardens.

This coming July marks the 25th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  But, just how far have we come in securing equal access and equal opportunity for all, and what more needs to be done?As part of WFUV's Strike a Chord campaign focused on efforts to improve accessibility for people with disabilities, we teamed up with Bronxnet for a special panel discussion.Our guests included:James Weisman.  James is an ADA pioneer and civil rights advocate.  He’s been involved in the disability rights movement since the beginning.  James currently serves as the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of United Spinal Association. Edith Prentiss, chair of the Taxis for All Campaign. And...Miranda Appelbaum.  Miranda is Senior Manager of Accessibility and Visitor Services at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.  She’s also the chair of the steering committee for the Museum Access Consortium.  The Consortium works to improve access to cultural resources throughout New York City, including museums and botanical gardens.

Joyce welcomes Paul J. Tobin, President and CEO of United Spinal Association. He will discuss the mission of the organization and how the organization strives to improve the quality of life for those with spinal cord injuries.