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Keith Murfee-DeConcini
This podcast is designed to address topics, such as social inclusion, employment, accessibility vs. inaccessibility, voting rights, and more. These topics are important to me because disability rights are civil rights and human rights, as well as an integral part of diversity. This podcast will further the importance of seeing the vital work of advocacy as an ongoing narrative… one that we can all play a part in shaping for the benefit of others. This show was created and hosted by Keith Murfee-DeConcini, a disability advocate. Visit DisabilityEmpowermentNow.com for more content, videos and full episodes or follow us on social media @DisabilityEmpowermentNow.
Total 87 episodes
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                    Vision, Leadership, and Lifelong Connections: The Story of Ryan Miller

Vision, Leadership, and Lifelong Connections: The Story of Ryan Miller

Ryan Miller is the Founding Pastor of Damascus Road, a church that is committed to following Jesus together at the University of Arizona. Ryan also serves as the Director of Campus Ministry for Missions Door. He provides leadership, vision, training, and care campus ministries throughout the United States, Mexico and Central America. Ryan and Keith talk about their church experience, friendship and the connections they share. Ryan also talks to Keith about the future and how their friendship has evolved over the years through church.   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina […]
01:24:3124/11/2024

                    Faith, Dance, and Difference: A Conversation with Freddy & Meg

Faith, Dance, and Difference: A Conversation with Freddy & Meg

Freddy Pang and Meg Gray are neurodivergent church members at The Journey Church, Tucson and a good friends with Keith. They talk to Keith about their relationship, living as a neurdivergent person and their passions for church and ballroom dancing. Freddy and Meg are newly weds and they talk about navigating their lives living with their disability.   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.
56:3017/11/2024

                    Racing Through Life: Nathan Klein on Autism, Horses, and the Road Ahead

Racing Through Life: Nathan Klein on Autism, Horses, and the Road Ahead

Nathan Klein is a University of Arizona student with Autism, studying Horse Racing. Nathan and Keith talk about their shared interest in horses and Sonic the Hedgehog. Nathan also talks about his experience as a disability advocate and his autism experience. Nathan and Keith also talk about the future and what Nathan plans to do after college.   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.
56:3210/11/2024

                    Empowering Faith: Jim Roden’s Mission for Disability Advocacy

Empowering Faith: Jim Roden’s Mission for Disability Advocacy

Jim Roden is a Pastor at The Journey Church in Tucson, Arizona. Jim and Keith talk about Jim’s ministry, disability advocacy within the Church, and Jim’s personal experience with disability advocacy.     Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
01:08:1904/11/2024

                    Empowering Voices: Chris Desborough on Disability Pride and Community

Empowering Voices: Chris Desborough on Disability Pride and Community

Chris Desborough is the Community Outreach Director for the city of Tucson and Director of Disability Pride Tucson. Disability Pride Day coincides with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This United Nations initiative was created to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society. This annual event features disability resources, performers and other activities. Chris and Keith talk about the origins of Disability Pride Day Tucson and how the event has grown over the years. They talk about this year’s event which will be held Dec. 7. They also talk about the roles […]
01:18:5427/10/2024

                    Embracing the Polio Family: John R. McFarlane's Story

Embracing the Polio Family: John R. McFarlane's Story

John R. McFarlane is an Actor with Polio and a Polio Advocate. John and Keith talk about Polio Advocacy, traveling the world, and John's personal experience living with Polio. They talk about the importance of living life and embracing the "Polio family."  BEGIN: Thought I would just share a bit about myself.  As you may have seen or know, I enjoyed an extensive commercial career but for the past 40 years or so I have concentrated on the disability sector.  I had polio when I was 18 months old and use a wheelchair full time.  So, I am interested both in access, legislation as well as advocacy – both promoting and empowering people through getting them to use it themselves.  Although I am physically disabled, I work across all types of disability - physical, visual, sensory, intellectual, behavioral as well as genetic.  I am looking to find examples of best practice and incorporate these, where possible, into my work as well as exchanging information.  Currently the projects I am working on, one is the Rotary International’s World Disability Advocacy Group that is a worldwide project and has both a strong membership base and influence amongst others working on similar structures, we work closely with the 1.4 million Rotarians and their Clubs around the globe.  If you would like to get regular news, newsletter and notice of the open form meeting send an email to the Rotary Club of World Disability Advocates at [email protected].  I am also working on the Post-Polio Syndrome Advocacy Group that is a worldwide project and has both a strong membership base and influence amongst others working on similar structures, that also work closely with Rotary Clubs around the globe.  It has a FB page under Post-Polio Syndrome Advocacy Group where you can learn more and even see a talk I did.  If you would like to get regular news, newsletter and notice of the open form meeting send an email to [email protected]. The whole point of these two projects is to educate people about the effects of old polio and to teach them how to advocate for themselves or to engage with advocacy services so that they live with dignity, independence, and the knowledge of how to reach out when help is needed.  Lastly, I am working with the TouchPad Pro Foundation as the Chair of their Board of Directors in bringing to market an innovative product for blind people to learn Braille.  Have a look at the Braille Doodle at www.touchpadprofoundation.org.  There are also plans to further take the concept into an iPad type of device that will allow tactile feedback in a three dimensional manner.  I look forward to staying in contact with you and sharing experiences to our, and others, mutual benefit. END   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend. .
47:1520/10/2024

                    Empowering Minds: Temple Grandin on Autism and Opportunity

Empowering Minds: Temple Grandin on Autism and Opportunity

Temple Grandin Ph.D. is a renowned autism spokesperson, author and animal behaviorist and an academic. She is a designer of livestock handling facilities and a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. She returns to Disability Empowerment Now to talk with Keith about her books “The Autism Brain” and “Visual Thinking.” She also discusses the importance of jobs for the Autism community. Temple and Keith also discuss future projects.   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Disability Empowerment Now Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.
44:1913/10/2024

                    From Paralympic Podium to Advocacy: Jenny Sichel on Winning, Training, and Leading Change

From Paralympic Podium to Advocacy: Jenny Sichel on Winning, Training, and Leading Change

Jenny Sichel is a 2016 Rio Paralympic Silver Medalist and 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Coach for Team USA in the sport of rowing. She was a USRowing National Team member for seven years and in that time won five international silver medals. When she’s not on the water, Jenny is passionate about destigmatizing mental health and is a strong advocate for independent living of people with disabilities. She currently works at the National Council on Independent Living as the Operations Director and her secret dream is to host a daytime talk show. Recently, Jenny has helped form an indie improv group based […]
01:10:2006/10/2024

                    Breaking Barriers: Andrew Gurza on Disability, Podcasting, and Representation

Breaking Barriers: Andrew Gurza on Disability, Podcasting, and Representation

Andrew Gurza is the host of Disability After Dark, a podcast that looks at disability stories and started in 2016. Andrew and Keith bond about their podcast experiences and they also bond over their shared disability. Andrew talks about the origins of Disability After Dark and the overall message it aims to bring to the community. Keith and Andrew also discuss the importance of having hosts with disabilities lead conversations in the podcast sphere. S4 Ep4 Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.   Disability Empowerment Now Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.
01:03:2529/09/2024

                    C. Quintana: Writing Orphan Black and Championing Queer Stories

C. Quintana: Writing Orphan Black and Championing Queer Stories

C. Quintana is a Queer Playwright and a Television Writer for Orphan Black: Echoes. CQ talks to Keith about working in television and on the Orphan Black series. They talk about how they first met, catch up on each other’s accomplishments and discuss the importance of representation in the world of television. Season 4 Ep 3   Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
01:12:5722/09/2024

                    Crafting Words, Building Community: Poet Liv Mammone on Creativity, Publishing, and Disability Advocacy

Crafting Words, Building Community: Poet Liv Mammone on Creativity, Publishing, and Disability Advocacy

Liv Mammone (she/her) is an editor and poet from Long Island. Her poetry has appeared with Button Poetry, The Poetry Foundation, The Medical Journal of Australia, and in many places. In 2017, she competed for Union Square Slam as the first disabled woman to be on a New York national poetry slam team She was also a finalist in the Capturing Fire National Poetry Slam in 2017. A Brooklyn Poets Fellow and Zoeglossia fellow, she is currently an editor at Game Over Books. In 2022, hers was one of the top ten most read poems at Split This Rock’s poetry database, The Quarry. Her first collection is forthcoming in 2025. Follow her on Instagram @mammoneliv.  Liv Mammone is a poet with Cerebral palsy. Liv is a published poet and performs regularly. She talks to Keith about her start in poetry, what it is like to publish poetry, and the importance of community to her craft. Liv also talks to Keith about music and how she navigates the world as a disability advocate. Season 4 Episode 2!! Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
01:49:2515/09/2024

                    Breaking Barriers on Stage: Megan Lummus & Katherine McCrackin on Autism, Advocacy, and the Power of Representation

Breaking Barriers on Stage: Megan Lummus & Katherine McCrackin on Autism, Advocacy, and the Power of Representation

Megan Lummus is an openly autistic stage and film director and Katherine McCrackin is an openly autistic actor. Each with their own unique background, they talk to Keith about their love of theater and the stage. They also discuss the importance of diversity and representation on the stage and in the directors chair, their individual disability journeys, and how they got involved in their advocacy.     Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. SEASON 4 IS HERE!!!!
01:35:3708/09/2024

                    Behind the Scenes with the DEN Team Pt.2: Nicole Feltman & Eileen Castro

Behind the Scenes with the DEN Team Pt.2: Nicole Feltman & Eileen Castro

Behind the Scenes Mini-Season Eileen Castro, who has been a creative producer with DEN for one year, helps with the Spanish transcripts and focuses on uploading podcast episodes to all streaming platforms and the official website, as well as creating and sending out newsletters. Nicole Feltman, who has been with the team since Season 1, around three years, is the head of Social Media, creating graphics for the team, social media, the website, and podcast episodes. Nicole also produces the transcripts and helps out wherever she’s needed. These incredibly talented individuals discuss their roles within the project with Keith, their […]
40:0701/09/2024

                    Behind the Scenes with the DEN Team Pt.1: Pascal Albright & Isabella Barnard

Behind the Scenes with the DEN Team Pt.1: Pascal Albright & Isabella Barnard

Behind the Scenes Mini Season Isa Barnard is the Spanish transcript writer and the website designer for Disability Empowerment Now. Pascal Albright is the producer of the podcast and videocast and credited with the creation of the newsletter. Both team members help Keith with the overall project and talk about their start with DEN and the work they do to keep the podcast going. Pascal listens to each episode and produces the content before it gets uploaded and Isa is helping redesign the website. Both are excited about the future of Disability Empowerment Now and give insight into the workings […]
51:4701/09/2024

                    Mastering Digital Media: Alex Pere on Storytelling, Content Creation, and Disability Empowerment

Mastering Digital Media: Alex Pere on Storytelling, Content Creation, and Disability Empowerment

Alexandra Pere is a digital media professional and content “wizard”. When she’s not engrossed in the latest documentary, she’s writing for the University of Arizona College of Engineering. She’s a long-time wildcat with a bachelor’s in science journalism and religious studies and a master’s in journalism. Alex is a professional storyteller engaging in best practices for marketing, content development, newsletter curation and search engine optimization (SEO). In her downtime, she’s finishing a Master of Science in Digital Audiences from ASU Cronkite.   When Alex was finishing her master’s degree at UA, she was pivotal in the creation of Disability Empowerment Now — acting as the first official producer, website builder, and social media manager.   Follow her on LinkedIn or Instagram, she loves to follow back!
44:2825/08/2024

                    Season 4 Trailer

Season 4 Trailer

We’re Back! Disability Empowerment Now Returns for Season 4 September 2024! Join me Keith Murfee-DeConcini as I continue on this journey of advocacy, this time exploring the theme of Disability Advocacy and Employment with guests like Paralympian Jenny Sichel, Former Senator Tom Harkin, Program Manager at Google Elaine Carroll and more! Also hear from some returning favorites like Actor Kurt Yaeger and Film Director Jordan Hogg, the incredible Dr. Temple Grandin and more! Disability Empowerment Now Season 4 is also launching as a full time video cast on YouTube so don’t miss out and subscribe, Like, Comment and Share now! […]
01:4121/08/2024

                    Exploring Classic Culture and Film Noir with Eric Fisk

Exploring Classic Culture and Film Noir with Eric Fisk

Eric Renderking Fisk is the creator of The Fedora Chronicles, a website focused on vintage and retro culture, especially related to the 1930s-1950s. He is passionate about classic movies, film noir, and pulp fiction. Through his work on the site, Eric shares his love for the aesthetics and values of this era, providing a unique perspective on both historical and modern pop culture. He also produces podcasts, reviews, and articles related to his interests. For more details, you can visit The Fedora Chronicles. Eric was the original producer for Disability Empowerment Now season 1 before stepping back. Eric and Keith […]
58:0118/08/2024

                    Breaking Barriers on Broadway: Liz Weber's Journey in Stage Management, Sound Design, and Accessibility

Breaking Barriers on Broadway: Liz Weber's Journey in Stage Management, Sound Design, and Accessibility

Liz Weber (they/them) is an autistic freelance AEA stage manager and audio engineer/ designer who has a passion for justice and equality especially in the theater spaces that they work.  Most recently, they worked on the stage management and accessibility teams of How To Dance in Ohio on Broadway. The Access Team of How to Dance in Ohio won a 2024 Special Drama Desk highlighting their efforts to bring disability to the mainstream of a Broadway stage for the first time in a large swath. They also served as the Monitor Engineer at Big Top Chautauqua in Bayfield, Wisconsin for the past two summers where […]
01:04:2211/08/2024

                    From Audition to Stage: Desmond Edwards' Journey in How to Dance in Ohio

From Audition to Stage: Desmond Edwards' Journey in How to Dance in Ohio

Desmond Edwards is an Actor who played Remy in the Broadway Musical How to Dance in Ohio. Desmond and Keith talk about how the audition for the role and what the acting process is like on a big stage show. Desmond talks to Keith about the importance of How to Dance In Ohio and how it was preforming for the real Remy from the documentary. Desmond Luis Edwards (they/he/she) Broadway: How To Dance in Ohio (Remy) Regional Theatre: How to Dance in Ohio (Remy) at Syracuse Stage. TV: Blue Bloods. Desmond and their fabulous hair is represented by Bohemia Group […]
51:4004/08/2024

                    Madison Kopec: Empowering Neurodiverse Voices Through Theatre

Madison Kopec: Empowering Neurodiverse Voices Through Theatre

Madison Kopec is a native of South Bend, IN, where she grew up performing in community theatre. Diagnosed with Autism  as a junior in high school presented challenges, but opportunities also manifested. In 2019 she was cast in the industry reading of, INDIGO- A New Musical, which led to its Regional premier in 2023. That was quickly followed by the industry reading of How to Dance In Ohio, that Regional premier then the Broadway run in 2023-2024. She is honored to have met and worked with so many wonderful neurodiverse and neurotypical people these past few years and is very excited for […]
01:11:1928/07/2024

                    Amplifying Voices: Ariel Reich on Theatre, Mindfulness, and Empowerment

Amplifying Voices: Ariel Reich on Theatre, Mindfulness, and Empowerment

Ariel Reich is an NYC based Actor, Director and Mindfulness Artist. Most recently, she performed in the Broadway National Tour of The Band’s Visit. As a performer, Ariel has appeared on stages such as Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, The Dolby, among others. On screen, she appears in the film The Reunion, Love Online, as well as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Younger, and The Deuce. In addition to her performance career, Ariel has a background in Arts in Medicine, working as a researcher and practitioner. Her “Suicide Prevention through Theatre Intervention” research was internationally recognized in 2017 by the Culture, […]
01:21:5922/07/2024

                    Collaborative Creations: Rebekah Greer Melocik on Musical Theatre

Collaborative Creations: Rebekah Greer Melocik on Musical Theatre

REBEKAH GREER MELOCIK is a lyricist and book-writer. Her work with composer-collaborator, Jacob Yandura, includes THE LAST QUEEN OF CANAAN (book: Harrison David Rivers), WRINGER (dir: Stephen Brackett), THE TOWER and HOW TO DANCE IN OHIO (dir: Sammi Cannold) which premiered on Broadway Dec 10, 2023. Recognitions and residencies include: SPACE on Ryder Farm residency, Jonathan Larson Grant finalists, NAMT Festival of New Musicals, Ars Nova’s UNCHARTED residency, the Johnny Mercer Writers Grove at Goodspeed Musicals, the York Theatre’s NEO residency, the Yale Institute for Music Theatre, the Dramatists Guild fellowship, the Johnny Mercer Songwriters Project, Rhinebeck Writers Retreat, Cap21’s […]
01:14:5215/07/2024

                    Nicole D'Angelo on 'How to Dance in Ohio' and Authentic Representation

Nicole D'Angelo on 'How to Dance in Ohio' and Authentic Representation

Nicole D’Angelo (they/she) is a music director, actor, and multi-instrumentalist in the NJ/NYC area. A recovering classical musician, they majored in piano and bass clarinet at Montclair State University before pursuing musical theater full time. Nicole recently made their Broadway debut as assistant music director and script consultant for the new musical How to Dance in Ohio, for which they won a special Drama Desk Award as a member of the show’s groundbreaking accessibility team. Other favorite credits include Fun Home (MD, StageWorks), The Civility of Albert Cashier (MD, Trans Entertainment Guild), and Little Shop of Horrors (Audrey, EPIC Players). Nicole is proudly Autistic and a passionate […]
01:29:2209/07/2024

                    Everything Depeche Mode with Alaina Morin

Everything Depeche Mode with Alaina Morin

Alaina is a Mainer who works with adults with intellectual disabilities through Community Case Management and as an Ed Technology in special education.   She attended the College of Santa Fe in New Mexico where she met many inspiring and enlightening individuals.  In her spare time Alaina enjoys puzzling, concerts, traveling, creating ideas for stories and long discussions about anything.    Alaina currently resides with her husband in a coastal community where they are renovating their home. She talks with Keith about their love of Depeche Mode.   BONUS EPISODE!! Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
02:08:0004/06/2024

                    Breaking Boundaries: Composer Jacob Yandura's Broadway Debut with 'How to Dance in Ohio'

Breaking Boundaries: Composer Jacob Yandura's Broadway Debut with 'How to Dance in Ohio'

JACOB YANDURA makes his Broadway debut as a composer with How to Dance in Ohio. Jacob’s first musical with lyricist-collaborator Rebekah Greer Melocik, Wringer, debuted Off-Broadway at New York City Center Stage II in 2016 (directed by Stephen Brackett; based on Jerry Spinelli’s novel). His other projects include The Last Queen of Canaan (book by Harrison David Rivers) and The Tower. Jacob holds a B.A. in Music Composition from Kenyon College and an M.F.A from New York University’s Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Program. SEASON 3 FINALE!! Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright
50:1213/05/2024

                    A Conversation with Tobias Forrest - Actor, Advocate, and Accessible Media Expert

A Conversation with Tobias Forrest - Actor, Advocate, and Accessible Media Expert

Tobias Forrest is a performer with a disability with a background in accessible consulting and MS in psychology. He won the Christopher Reeve Acting Award for the film ”Daruma” and has credits including “The Academy Awards”, “Media Access Awards”, ”Law & Order: Organized Crime”, “How To Get Away With Murder”, “Queen Sugar” and many others. He has also done voiceover for animation as well as audio description for TV, narration for audiobooks and been the MC for nonprofit events. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
57:3428/04/2024

                    Halley Greg's Journey from The Voice to Social Commentary in Music

Halley Greg's Journey from The Voice to Social Commentary in Music

Seattle singer-songwriter Halley Greg first rose to acclaim during the blind auditions on Season 20 of The Voice. John Legend called her slowed-down, piano ballad version of Nelly Furtado’s “I’m Like a Bird” “poetic” and “beautifully crafted,” and the performance earned her a spot on Team Kelly. Her appearance on the show coincided with the release of her debut album, American Harlot, a feminist rebranding of the pop/rock albums of the early 2000s. Filled with distorted guitar solos and pithy pop vocal melodies, the album is an ode to empowered women everywhere—a rock and rage romp with a few upbeat […]
01:23:3214/04/2024

                    From Director's Chair to BAFTA & RTS Winning Drama Director, the journey of Jordan Hogg

From Director's Chair to BAFTA & RTS Winning Drama Director, the journey of Jordan Hogg

Jordan is a BAFTA & RTS winning drama director from Yorkshire with a disability (cerebral palsy); he has over 70 hours of broadcast TV credits and first trained through the Channel 4’s 4Talent scheme & won BAFTA Breakthrough 2020. Jordan directed BBC1’s groundbreaking drama, multi RTS winning, Ralph & Katie – the first drama to feature 2 learning disabled lead actors, a project seen as pioneering for inclusive TV. He previously directed Channel 4 prison-drama series Screw & both the third and fourth seasons of Ackley Bridge for The Forge Entertainment, as well as episodes for BBC1 prime-time drama Death […]
01:03:4908/04/2024

                    Activism Amplified: Conversations with Kat & Heath

Activism Amplified: Conversations with Kat & Heath

Kat Stratford and Heath Butrum are two sickeningly cute political activists who have made careers out of trying to create a better world through politics. Kat, who is Deaf but uses hearing aids, is a former candidate for state house, and currently works for the City of Tucson in addressing the emergency of houselessness and housing insecurity. Heath is the Campaigns Director for Rural Arizona Engagement (RAZE). S3 Ep26 Find the transcript here. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
01:07:3203/04/2024

                    Comedy Acting with Steve Way

Comedy Acting with Steve Way

Steve Way is a 33-year-old actor, comedian, writer, and speaker. He was born with Muscular Dystrophy and is an activist for disability rights and universal healthcare.  Steve can be seen in the Hulu show Ramy and the HBO stand up special Ramy Youssef: More Feelings. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Find the transcript here.
45:2424/03/2024

                    Christina Trivigno's Journey in Digital Accessibility and Advocacy

Christina Trivigno's Journey in Digital Accessibility and Advocacy

Christina Trivigno is the Director of Digital Strategy at TDF, a New York City based not-for-profit service organization dedicated to breaking down barriers to the arts. She has over 10 years of experience working in the digital space and a lifetime of experience as a disability advocate. She has spoken and written about accessibility at organizations around the country including topics of transportation, reasonable accommodation, digital accessibility and access at the theatre. She was proud to marry her passions with the launch of TheatreAccess.NYC S3 Episode 24 Find the transcript here. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
56:5918/03/2024

                    Harmony in Diversity: A Theatrical Journey with Anita & Rachel Hollander

Harmony in Diversity: A Theatrical Journey with Anita & Rachel Hollander

Anita Hollander has performed throughout Europe, Asia & US, at Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, London’s West End, NY Shakespeare Festival, Goodman Theatre & White House. A Helen Hayes Award nominee, her solo musicals Still Standing and Spectacular Falls, have played Off-Broadway, nationally & internationally. Other Theatre work includes Ragtime, CATS  (Grizabella). On TV she’s Guest Starred on Welcome To Flatch & FBI: Most Wanted. Film work includes Handsome Harry, Musical Chairs. SAG-AFTRA National Chair, Performers With Disabilities. www.anitahollander.com Rachel Hollander is not only an ordained Interfaith/InterSpiritual minister but also a versatile professional, excelling as a speaker, teacher, writer, performer, podcaster, singer/songwriter, officiant, and performance interpreter. Her influence extends nationwide, with performances […]
01:37:4411/03/2024

                    The power of Stage Acting with Ann Marie Morelli

The power of Stage Acting with Ann Marie Morelli

Ann Marie has had a diverse and accomplished career in acting, with a range of roles spanning classical works like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “Measure for Measure” to contemporary plays such as “The Unexpected Guest” and “The Fourth Wall.” Her versatility is evident in her ability to portray characters with different emotions and backgrounds. Her educational background is impressive, having graduated from Marywood College with a BA in acting. Additionally, attending the Royal National Theatre American Actors Training Program in 1992 and 1993 likely provided her with valuable training and exposure to different acting techniques. It’s clear that Ann […]
01:09:0403/03/2024

                    Podcasting and Disability Pride with Erin Michelle Noon-Kay

Podcasting and Disability Pride with Erin Michelle Noon-Kay

Erin Noon Kay is the CEO & Founder of Claiming Disability LLC.  She talks to Keith about her podcast journey, Disability Pride, all the partnerships her podcast works with and her advising work. She talks about the importance of Disability Pride and celebrating disabilities in the everyday. Keith and Erin talk about their struggles and their achievements, and how she has paved her future to be so different from her past. “We need to make space for all people to talk about their struggles and create safe spaces,” Erin said.   Erin identifies a “fierce disabled entrepreneurial woman,” with Cerebral Palsy. […]
01:18:1926/02/2024

                    Therapeutic Riding of Tucson with Margaux DeConcini

Therapeutic Riding of Tucson with Margaux DeConcini

S3 Episode 20: Keith and Margaux talk about TRAP, Therapeutic Riding of Tucson, which has been around since 1974 and is one of the first facilities to innovate the use of horses as treatment. They discuss her work with horses, how that impacts her and the community and how the therapy impacts patients. “Everything we do is evidence based”, Margaux said. She talks about her involvement and history with TRAP. She started as a volunteer and transitioned into her passion. “Horses are magnificent animals,” Margaux said. “My personal history and the emotional connection people and horses can have but also […]
50:2511/02/2024

                    Working with Disney, Erica Mones

Working with Disney, Erica Mones

S3 Episode 19: Erica Mones and Keith talk about how Mones got into film, her work on the Disney movie “Wish” and how Mones navigates that world. They discuss Mones other interests including vlogs and the YouTube landscape. Mones talks about running and her routine. They talk about the importance of writing and using blogs to share experiences. Mones talks about her journey and advocacy and shines a light on navigating the film industry and overcoming challenges along the way.  Find the transcript here. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
01:10:4804/02/2024

                    On the Stage with Rachel Handler

On the Stage with Rachel Handler

S3 Ep 18: Rachel and Keith talk about stage life, starting with how they met on a musical theater production. Rachel talks about her experience on stage as a performer, how her career has taken off and the ups and downs of the musical theater industry. They recount memories of performances as well as stories of everyday life including relationships. Rachel talks about her passions about being on stage and how her career has taken her to some amazing places. Find the transcript here.  Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright.
58:0428/01/2024

                    Discussing "Stutterer Interrupted" With Nina G.

Discussing "Stutterer Interrupted" With Nina G.

This podcast episode contains explicit language, mature themes, and content that may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener discretion is advised. The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast platform. We recommend that you use headphones and ensure your environment is appropriate for the content discussed. By continuing to listen, you acknowledge and accept the explicit nature of this episode. Nina G is a versatile talent, excelling as a comedian, professional speaker, comedy historical consultant, and the accomplished author of “Stutterer Interrupted” and “Bay […]
01:14:3421/01/2024

                    Marine Biology and Whale Watching with Shari Bookstaff

Marine Biology and Whale Watching with Shari Bookstaff

S3 Ep 16: Shari Bookstaff had fulfilled her lifelong childhood dreams and was a tenured marine biology professor near San Francisco. She was thriving in her career and her personal life when sporadic dizzy spells and nausea led to a diagnosed benign brain tumor. Even though this was a large tumor that had to be removed immediately, it would be an “easy, routine surgery.” Then, the unthinkable happened. A 9-day hospital stay turned into 9 months of grueling rehabilitation. A stroke following the surgery took away Shari’s ability to breathe, eat, talk, hear and move. After several weeks in the […]
54:0514/01/2024

                    Disability Rights With Andy Imparato

Disability Rights With Andy Imparato

Andrew J. “Andy” Imparato began work in February of 2020 as the Executive Director of Disability Rights California (DRC) after a high-impact 26-year career in Washington, DC in disability advocacy and policy. DRC is a $44 million legal services agency with more than 320 staff and 26 offices that serve Californians with all types of disabilities across the age spectrum. Since joining DRC, Imparato has led advocacy efforts to protect the California disability community from health and economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic; helped shape Governor Newsom’s Master Plan for Aging as part of his Administration’s Stakeholder Advisory Committee and […]
54:5107/01/2024

                    "Theater Breaking Through Barriers" With Richard M. Rose

"Theater Breaking Through Barriers" With Richard M. Rose

Richard has a diverse background as an actor, director, musician, and in education. He has worked in Regional and New York theater, showcasing his skills in both administratively and creatively  — from Neil Simon to Shakespeare. In addition to his artistic pursuits. Richard serves on the Board of Directors for Theater Breaking Through Barriers, the only off-broadway professional theatre organization dedicated to advancing artists and developing audiences of people with disabilities and altering the misperceptions surrounding disability. He is an expert in New York State and Federal procedural court law and litigation practice. Richard currently resides in West Haven, CT, and […]
01:23:5717/12/2023

                    The Importance of Adaptive Athletics with Peter Hughes

The Importance of Adaptive Athletics with Peter Hughes

Mr. Peter Hughes has a long career in athletics as a coach and administrator, as well as nonprofit, sales, and fund development. Since 2017, he has served as Director of Adaptive Athletics at the University of Arizona. UArizona’s Adaptive Athletics program is the largest program of its kind and has produced 40+ Paralympians. As director, he supervises a large professional staff and cultivates relationships with donors who support program operations, as well as other community contacts to increase awareness of wheelchair and adaptive sport. During his tenure as director, Mr. Hughes he has tripled the number of enrolled student athletes […]
52:0310/12/2023

                    Talking with filmmaker Rio Finnegan

Talking with filmmaker Rio Finnegan

Rio Finnegan graduated in Film from Santa Fe University of Art & Design, to which he was awarded the Robert Redford Milagro Initiative Scholarship. In his time there he worked on many projects under many titles. Making films such as Hello World and 1-900 in his time there. 1-900 had the pleasure to be accepted into The El Paso Media Fest and The National Film Festival For Talented Youth and is still being considered for a few other festivals.      He has worked on a bunch of films as an Assistant Director and Producer, like the films, Ding Dongs and CC […]
01:09:0303/12/2023

                    Creating neuro-diverse opportunities and communities through the Arts with Aubrie Therrien

Creating neuro-diverse opportunities and communities through the Arts with Aubrie Therrien

Aubrie Therrien is the Executive Artistic Director of The EPIC Players, dedicated to creating neuro-diverse opportunities and communities through the arts. She has been an actress regionally and in New York City for 20 years and holds a BFA in Theater from Longwood University and a Masters of Public Health from New York University. She has worked with the neuro-diverse community through theater for several years and is a passionate advocate for inclusion in the arts. She was recognized as New Yorker of the Week by News One New York for her work and has been published in Autism Spectrum […]
01:07:3226/11/2023

                    The importance of Disability Studies with Dr. Andrew Marcum

The importance of Disability Studies with Dr. Andrew Marcum

Andrew Marcum, Ph.D., brings an unparalleled passion for Disability Studies to his role as the Academic Director and Distinguished Lecturer at the CUNY School of Professional Studies. A trailblazer in the field, Dr. Marcum served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at SPS from 2016 to 2022, concurrently acting as the dynamic Program Coordinator for the Center for Self-Advocacy in Buffalo, NY. Venturing beyond traditional academia, Dr. Marcum’s expertise earned him a prestigious dissertation research fellowship at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. He further enriched his experience as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Center […]
01:04:2919/11/2023

                    My Out of the Blue Stories: One Man Journey through Life with Scott Seldin part 2

My Out of the Blue Stories: One Man Journey through Life with Scott Seldin part 2

After a B.A. in English from American University in Washington D.C. and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the Instituto Allende, University of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Scott taught literature and composition at Baruch College for fifteen years in New York City, while freelancing as a photographer (scottseldinphotography.com). In 1982, Scott wrote Yes, Boss, published by Blythe-Pennington, LTD. After moving to Santa Fe, he worked as director of Mountain View School on the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit of St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, followed by eleven years as academic coordinator and personal development coach at The College of Santa […]
01:03:1812/11/2023

                    My Out of the Blue Stories: One Man Journey through Life with Scott Seldin part 1

My Out of the Blue Stories: One Man Journey through Life with Scott Seldin part 1

After a B.A. in English from American University in Washington D.C. and an M.F.A. in Creative Writing from the Instituto Allende, University of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, Scott taught literature and composition at Baruch College for fifteen years in New York City, while freelancing as a photographer (scottseldinphotography.com). In 1982, Scott wrote Yes, Boss, published by Blythe-Pennington, LTD. After moving to Santa Fe, he worked as director of Mountain View School on the Adolescent Psychiatric Unit of St. Vincent Hospital in Santa Fe, followed by eleven years as academic coordinator and personal development coach at The College of Santa […]
01:01:2305/11/2023

                    Representation in the Entertainment Industry with Kurt Yaeger

Representation in the Entertainment Industry with Kurt Yaeger

S3 Episode 8: Kurt Yaeger is an American actor and disability advocate known for his inspiring story of resilience and determination. He was born on January 3, 1977, in San Francisco, California. However, in 2006, his life took a dramatic turn when he was involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Despite this life-altering event, Kurt Yaeger continued to pursue his passion for acting and quickly established himself as a talented actor in the entertainment industry. He’s best known for his roles in popular TV shows like “Sons of Anarchy” and “Quarry.” His […]
01:16:5929/10/2023

                    From Rock clubs to Musical Collaborations to Poetry: A chat with Cary Goldberg

From Rock clubs to Musical Collaborations to Poetry: A chat with Cary Goldberg

Cary Goldberg began his 20+ year career as a performing artist on a one night whim. At the age of 14, he wrote a stand up comedy act and opened for a comedy troupe at the local rock club, what was supposed to be one night, ended up spanning 6 years.  Cary always stuck to rock clubs rather than comedy clubs, because as a comedy promoter once eloquently told him “People come to comedy clubs to drink, not to think.” Cary has always believed that if his art wasn’t making people think, he was doing a disservice.  He played hundreds of shows […]
01:12:5322/10/2023

                    Seinfeld, Acting and the Screen Life With Daniel Woodburn

Seinfeld, Acting and the Screen Life With Daniel Woodburn

S3 Episode 6: Daniel Woodburn is an American actor, comedian, and activist for the disability rights movement linked to his dwarfism. He is most known for his work on Seinfeld in the 90s but has worked on films like Jingle All the Way, Watchmen, and Mirror Mirror. He is a graduate of Philadelphia’s Temple University’s School of Film and Theater and recipient of their Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award of 2001. He is a well-known, long-time advocate for performers with disabilities in film, television and theatre. He serves on the Performers With Disabilities Committee of SAG-AFTRA. Daniel talks to Keith about […]
01:02:5315/10/2023