AXSChat Podcast

Discover how cybersecurity is being reshaped to be more inclusive and accessible for everyone, especially those with disabilities. Join us as we host an enlightening conversation with Lauren Iglehart, CISA's Chief of the Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, and Bob Nadeau, the Partnerships Branch Chief within Strategic Relations at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. While Neil Milliken enjoys a break in Thailand, our guests share the United States government's groundbreaking initiatives aimed at making cybersecurity resources available to all. Learn about the Secure Our World campaign, designed to mitigate cyber risks while fostering digital equality, and hear how these efforts are making a global impact on infrastructure protection. We also explore the importance of diversity within CISA's workforce, including the Neurodiverse Federal Workforce Initiative, which focuses on recruiting individuals with autism and other targeted disabilities. Gain insights into how diverse perspectives enhance innovation and problem-solving in the face of evolving cybersecurity threats. Our discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by AI and underscores the need for comprehensive cybersecurity education. Additionally, we touch on the complexities of managing a multigenerational workforce and the importance of leadership in adapting to a rapidly changing security landscape. Listen in for a deeper understanding of how CISA is leading the charge toward a more secure and inclusive digital future. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

What does it mean to truly embrace disability inclusion in the business world? Join us for a revealing conversation with Diane Lightfoot from the Business Disability Forum, as we unravel the complexities of making disability inclusion a central pillar of corporate responsibility. Highlighting insights from the Global Business Disability Network conference by the ILO, we examine how this crucial issue has evolved from a marginal concern to a mainstream agenda. Diane shares her expertise, guiding us through the intricate balance between ethical imperatives and compliance-driven approaches. We also discuss the potential hazards of focusing solely on the business case, such as microaggressions and tokenism, as pointed out by a Catalyst report. Our discussion takes a deeper turn as we confront the challenges businesses face in addressing larger social issues of identity and inclusion. We consider the fragmentation within identity groups and the complications that arise when individuals are hesitant to identify with them due to societal perceptions. Diane and I ponder the power of unity and community, debating whether the division of employee resource groups aids or impedes their strength in collective action. We wrap up with a thoughtful exploration of the differing responsibilities between employers and the state in tackling health and social issues, focusing on the disparities smaller organizations face compared to larger enterprises. This episode encourages a rethinking of traditional strategies and roles, urging businesses to integrate disability inclusion meaningfully into their broader objectives. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

What happens when an educator's personal journey intersects with a mission for global inclusion? Berna Bouwer, the Corporate Head of Inclusion at GEMS Education, shares her compelling journey from South Africa to Dubai, fueled by her passion for special needs education, a journey deeply influenced by her own experiences with ADHD and her son's cerebral palsy diagnosis. Berna's story is more than personal; it's a testament to the transformative power of inclusive education in a region as diverse as the UAE, where schools celebrate a rich tapestry of up to 129 nationalities. Join us as we explore the progressive strides the UAE has made in inclusive education, particularly for individuals with special needs. Despite misconceptions and criticisms, the UAE's unique compliance frameworks offer a refreshing contrast to the litigation-heavy approaches found elsewhere. Berna, drawing on her extensive experience, highlights how the UAE's comprehensive regulatory measures and innovative practices align with the nation's vision for an accessible and inclusive education system that champions tolerance and acceptance. But the journey doesn't stop at progress—there are challenges too. From the high financial burden on parents to the hurdles faced in employment for individuals with disabilities, the road to inclusion is fraught with obstacles. We'll touch on poignant stories that highlight both the triumphs and trials, such as the young woman with Down syndrome navigating communication barriers and a high-functioning student with ASD striving for future opportunities. This episode promises to provide insights into the UAE's leadership in assistive technology while addressing the pressing need for more affordable and effective solutions in inclusive education. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

What drives a leader to champion disability inclusion and transform corporate culture? Meet Mike Liebman, Bloomberg's ERG lead for the United States, as he shares his compelling journey through personal health challenges and his relentless efforts to broaden Bloomberg's disability ERG, BeAble. From dissociative disorders to PTSD and a degenerative spinal condition, Mike's experiences have fueled a passion to expand ERG discussions to encompass mental health, neurodiversity, and chronic medical conditions. Tune in to hear how Mike navigates the intricate landscape of representing diverse communities within ERGs, ensuring balanced attention to various disabilities, and fostering inclusive dialogue that keeps members actively engaged. Discover the strides Bloomberg is making under Mike's leadership towards a more inclusive tech environment. We spotlight Bloomberg's pioneering initiatives like the disability in tech conference, created in collaboration with Lime Connect, which highlights the critical contributions of individuals with disabilities, especially in AI advancements. Additionally, get a glimpse into the empowering Grace Topper event, which serves as a vibrant recruitment platform connecting talented women with corporations keen on diversifying their workforce. With these forward-thinking initiatives, we share our excitement for the potential lasting impact on diversity and inclusion in tech and beyond. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Join us for an enlightening discussion with Johny Cassidy, an inspiring BBC journalist and the leader of their Disabled Staff Employee Network, as he shares his remarkable story of overcoming accessibility challenges in journalism. Johny's journey is one of resilience and innovation, where he creatively turned barriers into opportunities, leveraging assistive technology to carve out a successful career. Dive into Johny’s passion for digital accessibility and visual data journalism, and understand why equal access to news is crucial for all audiences. His insights offer a powerful reminder of the value that diverse perspectives bring to trusted news delivery, and the ongoing battle against imposter syndrome many face in professional landscapes. We also explore the fascinating parallels between the unpredictability of horse riding and the intricacies of advocating for digital accessibility. Johny illustrates how effective communication and strategic framing can influence stakeholders to embrace accessibility by showcasing its wide-reaching benefits. Listen to his heartfelt narrative about a father's efforts to shatter societal prejudices and serve as a role model for his daughter, pushing for increased diversity and representation in journalism. Through organizing impactful events and challenging existing stereotypes, Johnny emphasizes the critical need for disabled individuals in decision-making roles, ensuring that diverse voices are celebrated and heard. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Rachel Billington, AECOM's Director of People and Culture, shares her intriguing transition from policing to leading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at a major global infrastructure company. Rachel recounts an inspiring moment when her impactful speech sparked enhanced maternity leave support. As we navigate the complexities of DEI amid contrasting political climates across Europe and North America, Rachel sheds light on overcoming the cyclical challenges and backlash against 'wokery.' With a focus on fostering inclusive environments, she emphasizes the power of open dialogue to move beyond the limitations of cancel culture and encourages authentic expression in the workplace. Our conversation also uncovers AECOM's commitment to promoting diversity in engineering, with particular attention to gender balance and early career recruitment in the UK. Rachel reveals innovative strategies, such as collaborating with inclusive universities and conducting STEM outreach, to address gender disparities. We discuss the significance of using authentic representation in organizational marketing and the broader implications of diversity across all areas, including age. From ensuring equitable gender representation at senior levels to preventing talent drain through age diversity, Rachel highlights how economic and moral imperatives align to build a more inclusive workforce. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Paralympian and trailblazer Sophia Warner joins us to share how she's reshaping the landscape of inclusive sports with the Superhero Series. With events like Winter Wonder Wheels and Superhero triathlon, Sophia is breaking down barriers by allowing participants to tackle courses in any way they can—whether being towed, pushed, or using other adaptive methods. Her passion for creating a safe and inclusive space for individuals with disabilities stems from her own experiences and fuels the series' mission to enable everyone to enjoy sports without the constraints of traditional rules. We explore the dynamic blend of disability, adventure, and empowerment that defines these groundbreaking events. Sophia’s innovative approach bridges the gap between elite Paralympic sports and broader participation, offering both live and remote opportunities for those who might face travel or sensory challenges. Supported by major sponsors like Marvel and Disney, the Superhero Series is more than just a set of events; it's a movement that champions diversity, enabling participants to showcase their abilities to the world. Beyond the races, there’s a deeper story unfolding—a narrative of community building and support for families with disabled children. Sophia reveals how the series creates a space for connection, understanding, and shared joy, enhancing the sense of unity among participants. As the Superhero Series grows from its humble beginnings to hosting thousands, the call for continued financial and volunteer support becomes crucial. Join us in celebrating the extraordinary spirit of these events and consider being part of this inspiring journey towards a more inclusive and joyful sporting future. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Explore the synergy between sustainability and accessibility in digital design with our insightful guest, Alexis, Senior Product UX Designer at IKEA. We promise a rich discussion on the shared goals of enhancing life and the planet, while tackling the challenge of fragmented reporting under the European Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive. Alexis shares groundbreaking strategies on integrating sustainable practices into digital technology, stressing the need for collaboration between professionals to ensure accessibility's material impact is both recognized and effectively communicated. Shifting focus to the power of optimism, we discuss redefining societal value beyond monetary terms. Drawing inspiration from compelling books like "What If We Get It Right," we advocate for moving away from pessimism to embrace hopeful innovation. Discover how sustainable and accessible practices can not only improve efficiency and creativity but also lead to better, more affordable products. We wrap up by emphasizing the importance of sustaining conversations on accessibility across multiple platforms, aiming for a long-term impact that transcends today's discussion. Join us for an inspiring narrative that challenges you to rethink value in design and business practices. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Discover the captivating journey of Peter Torres-Fremlin, the visionary behind Disability Debrief, as he reveals how a platform dedicated to disability reporting came to be. Through his experiences with international organizations and his commitment to amplifying voices from the global south, Peter takes us on a tour of the crucial role investigative journalism plays in the disability sector. Unravel the challenges of navigating an overloaded information landscape and the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of journalism. Explore the profound questions surrounding disability data accuracy and the importance of transparency and accountability within the community. Peter and Antonio engage in a thought-provoking discussion on the reliability of widely cited statistics, such as the World Health Organization's 15% figure, and consider the implications of data on public policy. By examining the global adoption and debates surrounding methodologies like the Washington Group questions, we shed light on how accurate data can influence societal understanding and decision-making processes. Finally, we confront the complexities of disability representation in media, emphasizing the need for both specialized and inclusive reporting. By addressing issues like media misrepresentation and the importance of dedicated spaces for the disability community, we underscore the power of resources like Disability Debrief in equipping advocates and professionals with trusted information. Join us as we advocate for improved quality in mainstream media while fostering environments where voices from the disability community can thrive and lead the narrative. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

In this episode of AXSChat, with John Graham, founder of the Giraffe Heroes Project, talks about his adventurous life, the importance of storytelling in inspiring action, and the need for individuals to take risks to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). John shares his transformative journey from seeking adrenaline rushes to finding purpose in helping others and discusses the impact of storytelling in driving social change. He emphasizes the importance of sticking one's neck out to create a better world and reflects on his experiences with activism, including his work against apartheid. Takeaways Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Darryl Adams, a luminary in the field of accessibility, joins us to share the extraordinary path that defined his 28-year career at Intel, shaped profoundly by his personal experiences with retinitis pigmentosa and single-sided deafness. Darryl's story is a heartfelt exploration of how Intel's inclusive culture, coupled with his relentless passion, empowered him to champion accessible technology for all. Through his reflections, we learn not just about the technological strides made at Intel, but also about the wider impact of fostering diversity and inclusion within the workplace. Darryl takes us on a journey into the future of technology and communication, unveiling the world of possibilities opened by machine learning and conversational AI. Imagine a world where interactions transcend traditional interfaces, transforming into seamless, conversational exchanges that nurture human connection. Darryl shines a light on the transformative potential of these technologies to enhance communication tools, especially for those with speech differences or hearing loss, promising a more inclusive and interconnected world. As we navigate the ethical dimensions of technology, we are urged to consider the responsibility of major tech companies in shaping AI that prioritizes inclusivity and fairness. By weaving together cybersecurity, accessibility, and ethics, the conversation addresses the need for personalized algorithms that cater to individual needs, ensuring trust and enhancing user experiences. Darryl's insights underscore the importance of refocusing tech industry objectives from profit to user-centric optimization. Finally, we reflect on the shifting demographics of an aging population and the vital role this plays in the ongoing dialogue around accessibility, urging collective efforts to embrace and address these emerging challenges. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

How do you transform a major online retailer into a beacon of accessibility? Join us as we sit down with Tzveta Dinova, the pioneering accessibility lead at ASOS, who shares her compelling journey from design and education to becoming a trailblazer in inclusive practices. Discover the story behind Sveta's transition into accessibility in 2018 and how her role has evolved within ASOS, a company dedicated to inclusion in fashion and beauty. Her unique position as the sole accessibility advocate at a major retail company presents both challenges and exceptional opportunities. Get ready to understand the "why" behind accessibility initiatives through Tzveta's eyes. As an accessibility product owner, Sveta discusses her strategic approach to fostering a culture of accessibility within ASOS, educating her colleagues on the social model of disability. Learn from her methods of building empathy and commitment across a vast team through training sessions and live demonstrations from individuals with disabilities. Sveta underscores the importance of embedding accessibility into daily workflows, ensuring that every team member shares the responsibility. Explore the transformative effects of accessible e-commerce platforms on customers with disabilities. Tzveta provides an insider’s perspective on measuring accessibility improvements at ASOS, from leveraging assistive technologies to collecting detailed feedback. Find out how balancing corrective actions with positive reinforcement creates a more inclusive platform and re-engages customers who previously faced accessibility challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to understanding and advancing accessibility in a fast-paced online retail environment. Support the show Follow axschat on social media Twitter: https://twitter.com/axschat https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/neilmilliken https://twitter.com/debraruh LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz

Hosted by Antonio Santos, Debra Ruh and Neil Milliken. Esther Dakin-Poole is a Council member and Coordinator of the current UK Assistive Products List (UK APL) initiative for The British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) and WHO-GATE Programme, designed to establish which are the most essential assistive products in the UK today. Esther is a Director and Secretary of GAATO, The Global Alliance of Assistive Technology Organizations based in Geneva, Switzerland. She is also Head of Education & Development at Smile Smart Technology, her family’s enterprise who innovate and provide assistive technology to children and adults with complex disabilities and specialise in neuro disability switching, controls and linkages between digital access and mobility training. She has grown up as a carer for her younger sister who has Downs Syndrome and sees her as one of the most enlightening people in her life. Esther’s alma mater is SOAS, University of London where she most recently studied international diplomacy and she has historic regional focus on East and Southern Africa and South-East Asia. Support the showFollow axschat on social media Twitter https://twitter.com/AkwyZ https://twitter.com/axschat LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniovieirasantos/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/axschat/ Vimeo https://vimeo.com/akwyz