Changing Minds & Changing Lives Podcast

Julie Sowash
  • 4.0 (1)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Julie Sowash of Disability Solutions talks with clients, friends, influencers, and advocates from the disability community to discuss the complexities, difficulties, and successes of disability employment.  In this honest and very human podcast, we analyze and dissect workplace trends, government policies, biases, and more, shedding light on disability inclusion and the people who are changing minds and changing lives. 

  1. Building Dateability: Redefining Disability Dating & Inclusive Apps

    JAN 29 · VIDEO

    Building Dateability: Redefining Disability Dating & Inclusive Apps

    In this powerful Season 3 kickoff of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash sits down with sisters and co‑founders of Dateability, Jacqueline and Alexa Child, to explore how lived experience, legal insight, and pure sister‑energy transformed a shared frustration into the world’s leading dating app for disabled and chronically ill people. From navigating ableism on mainstream dating platforms to building an inclusive alternative from scratch—with no tech background and plenty of obstacles along the way—Jacqueline and Alexa share the emotional, logistical, and deeply human story behind Dateability’s creation. Listeners will hear about the app’s innovative features, the importance of safe and normalized disclosure, the role of disability‑centered community in dating, and the real‑life love stories proving the platform’s impact, including Dateability’s first wedding. The episode also dives into safety, funding challenges, press wins, and the sisters’ unwavering commitment to building a space where disabled people can date with dignity, joy, and authenticity. Show Notes:  Key Topics:  The Origin Story Building the App What Makes Dateability Different Safety & Privacy User Feedback, Community Growth & Impact Accessibility, Pricing & How to Join For Investors & PartnersChanging Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. Guests Jacqueline Child – Co‑founder of Dateability, disability advocate, entrepreneur Alexa Child – Co‑founder of Dateability, attorney, problem‑solver, big‑sister‑in‑chiefLearn more about the app and accessibility and safety features  - https://info.dateabilityapp.com/

    36 min
  2. CMCL - AI, Accessibility, and the Future of Work: Insights from Disability Solutions

    12/16/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL - AI, Accessibility, and the Future of Work: Insights from Disability Solutions

    Join us for a special year-end episode of "Changing Minds, Changing Lives" as host Julie Sowash sits down with Keith Meadows, Executive Director of Disability Solutions, for an honest and insightful conversation about the future of disability employment. Keith shares his journey from restaurant management to leading a national nonprofit, revealing how customer service skills and operational know-how translate into driving real change for job seekers with disabilities. Discover how Disability Solutions has evolved from a scrappy consulting startup to a scalable, data-driven organization helping employers optimize their hiring processes and create truly inclusive workplaces. Keith and Julie discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the disability community in 2025, including the impact of AI on hiring, the importance of accessible remote work, and why companies committed to disability inclusion are gaining a competitive edge. Whether you're an HR leader, a job seeker, or simply passionate about building a more equitable workforce, this episode offers practical takeaways, inspiring stories, and a look ahead to brighter skies in 2026. Tune in for actionable insights, candid reflections, and a celebration of the progress made—and the work still to come—in changing minds and changing lives. Key Topics: Keith Meadows’ leadership journey and lessons from restaurant management Scaling Disability Solutions for greater impact and accessibility The evolving job market: AI, automation, and disability inclusion Practical strategies for employers to optimize disability hiring The importance of remote work and accessible workplaces Navigating economic uncertainty and planning for 2026 Building trust and competitive advantage through authentic inclusionFollow Disability Solutions on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube for more resources and updates. Notes:  Keith Meadows is the Executive Director of Disability Solutions, where he leads efforts to help employers build inclusive workplaces and tap into the $13 trillion disability economy. With over a decade of experience in disability employment and a background in operations and customer service, Keith specializes in practical, data-driven strategies for accessible hiring and retention. He is a passionate advocate for disability rights and regularly shares insights on workplace inclusion, mentorship, and the business impact of accessibility.

    41 min
  3. CMCL - When HR Loses Its Way: DEI, SHRM, and the Future of Work with Tara Turk-Haynes

    11/05/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL - When HR Loses Its Way: DEI, SHRM, and the Future of Work with Tara Turk-Haynes

    In this episode of Changing Minds and Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash, CEO of Catch 22 Group and the Job Board Doctor, and founder of Disability Solutions, sits down with Tara Turk-Haynes — strategist, storyteller, equity activator, and founding member of Hacking HR — for a candid, no-nonsense conversation about the state of DEI in today’s workplaces and the growing controversy surrounding SHRM’s shift away from diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, Julie and Tara unpack how SHRM’s recent decisions — including its rebranding of DEI, the leadership of CEO Johnny C. Taylor, and the 2025 SHRM Blueprint Conference featuring keynote panelists Van Jones and Robby Starbuck — signal deeper issues about values, leadership, and the future of human resources. Tara shares her personal journey from administrative assistant to executive leader, the lessons she’s learned about data-driven inclusion, and why equity — not just diversity or inclusion — is what truly transforms workplaces. The two also discuss how performative allyship, “chameleon leadership,” and the erosion of worker-centered advocacy threaten progress, and what individuals can do to push back. If you care about the future of work, human-centered leadership, and how organizations can uphold equity even in a polarized environment, this is a must-listen conversation. ✨ Key Topics: · SHRM’s controversial move from DEI to “I&D” and what it really means· How leadership values shape (and sometimes distort) workplace culture· The impact of politics and performative allyship on HR credibility· Why data and empathy must coexist in equitable workplaces· Practical ways HR pros and employees can take action locallyNotes: Guest:Tara Turk-Haynes — Strategist, storyteller, and equity activator; founder of Equity Activations; featured in Fast Company and Harvard Business Review; known for blending strategy, creativity, and inclusion to build sustainable change.

    50 min
  4. CMCL Interview: Chris Ruden

    08/26/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL Interview: Chris Ruden

    In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, Julie Sowash welcomes Chris Ruden, a world record-holding powerlifter, motivational speaker, inclusion advocate, and finalist on NBC’s Titan Games. Born with a disability and later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Chris shares how years of hiding his hand shaped his understanding of self-acceptance, resilience, and ultimately, his purpose. Julie and Chris delve into the complexities of psychological safety at work, examining why it cannot be reduced to a simple yes-or-no question and how leaders can foster cultures of trust and belonging through consistency, active listening, and authenticity. Chris also discusses the impact of internalized ableism, offering candid insight into his own journey from self-doubt to empowerment, and the pivotal moments that helped him stop hiding and step fully into his identity. Together, they examine the difference between showing up for employees versus speaking on their behalf, the risks companies take when retreating from diversity and inclusion commitments, and why the future of work must be human-centered. This conversation is both deeply personal and broadly practical, offering lessons for leaders, allies, and anyone striving to create a world where people are valued for who they are—not just what they have.What We Talk About: The meaning of psychological safety at work and why it’s not a simple yes/no answer. The impact of internalized ableism and how to overcome it. Why trust, listening, and curiosity are the foundation of true inclusion. What companies risk when they retreat from DEI—and how authentic leadership can rebuild trust.Notes:  Chris Ruden is an internationally recognized speaker and disability advocate who helps organizations build cultures of inclusion, resilience, and belonging. Born with a congenital disability and later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, Chris turned years of hiding into a mission of empowerment, challenging audiences to rethink bias and embrace change. Visit ChrisRuben.com for more.  Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

    39 min
  5. CMCL Interview: Brandy Schantz

    08/05/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL Interview: Brandy Schantz

    In this compelling episode, Brandy Schantz—Army veteran, former intelligence professional, and chronic illness advocate—joins Julie Sowash to share how her life was upended by severe Crohn’s disease, drug-induced lupus, and dysautonomia. Brandy opens up about navigating a healthcare system that offered little support and a workforce that wasn’t built for people with chronic illness. Her story challenges common assumptions about who gets sick and how they’re treated—and why so many women in their prime working years are being left behind. Together, Brandy and Julie discuss: What chronic illness really means How it intersects with disability and employment The real-life barriers to staying employed with an “invisible” illness—and what needs to change What employers can do to support those with chronic illnesses in their workforceBrandy calls attention to a community often left out of the disability conversation, despite their growing numbers. Her advocacy reminds us that we must build systems that support people through all phases of health, and that no one should lose their livelihood simply because their body changes. Notes:Brandy Schantz is a former U.S. Army Intelligence Officer, disabled veteran, and Crohn’s disease patient turned advocate and entrepreneur. She founded Schantz Business Group to help organizations embrace disability inclusion, support newly disabled employees, and tap into the strengths of the disabled workforce. Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

    43 min
  6. CMCL Interview: Jennifer Dewees

    07/21/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL Interview: Jennifer Dewees

    In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, Julie Sowash talks with Jennifer Dewees, Executive Director of MCCEI, about how the construction industry is evolving to meet a critical workforce shortage—and why it’s becoming a powerful, inclusive pathway for Gen Z, women, and people with disabilities. Jennifer shares how Maryland is leading the way with apprenticeship programs that offer debt-free, hands-on careers in the built environment. They dive into how neurodiverse individuals are thriving in construction, and how MCCEI’s partnership with Kennedy Krieger Institute is helping organizations better support alternative learning styles and accessible workplaces. Highlights include: 40% of the construction workforce is retiring—who will replace them? Earn-and-learn apprenticeships with no student debt Breaking down barriers for women and people with disabilities Why construction is ideal for neurodiverse workers Gen Z’s rise as the “Toolbelt Generation”Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. Thank you to our episode sponsor, the Maryland Center for Construction Education and Innovation (MCCEI).

    37 min
  7. CMCL Interview: Travis Davis

    07/01/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL Interview: Travis Davis

    In this episode of Changing Minds, Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash sits down with Travis Davis, a speaker, entrepreneur, and disability advocate living with cerebral palsy. Travis shares his journey of advocating for disabilities, from his college days to becoming a TEDx speaker and host of the podcast *Off the Crutch*. Travis discusses the motivation behind his brand, which aims to help others overcome their mental “crutches,” and his involvement with the Rush Bowls franchise, designed to create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Join us for this inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of inclusivity and self-advocacy. Tune in to be empowered and informed! Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. Notes: Travis Davis is a two-time TEDx speaker and communications consultant who helps mission-driven teams create inclusive and accessible communication strategies. With a background in education, marketing, and ADA coordination, his perspective is influenced by his experience with cerebral palsy. Travis focuses on fostering human-centered environments where everyone can thrive and has helped launch businesses that employ individuals with disabilities, served on workforce development panels, and led disability awareness training. TEDx Talks: - Incluse Me: Social Inclusion in Education | Travis Davis | TEDxABQED- How My Crutch Became My Strength | Travis Davis | TEDxSouth Congress

    36 min
  8. CMCL Takeover By Grant Harris - Seen, But Not Heard: Neurodivergence in Communities of Color

    06/18/2025 · VIDEO

    CMCL Takeover By Grant Harris - Seen, But Not Heard: Neurodivergence in Communities of Color

    What does it mean to be seen, but not truly heard? When the color of your skin speaks louder than your voice, and your neurodivergence is misread as defiance, disinterest, or something to be corrected? In this powerful episode, guest host Grant Harris sits down with two thought-provoking guests whose lives and work sit at the intersection of race, disability, and identity. Ian Gibbs-Hall is the creator of Curiosity Architecture and the founder of Sonder, a social enterprise that rehumanizes how we see ourselves and the systems we live in. His work blends systems thinking, empathy, and spiritual insight to challenge how institutions define value and behavior. Ian explores how metrics, language, and culture often obscure neurodivergent brilliance—and how reimagining these structures starts with the questions we ask. Natasha Grant Holmberg offers both a personal and generational lens, grounded in her lived experience as a neurodivergent professional with ADHD. As the Director of Employment & Workforce Development at First Place AZ and creator of Be Open + Be Ready℠, she leads inclusive employment initiatives that focus on readiness training and educating employers on neuro-inclusive hiring practices. Natasha’s work fosters environments where difference is embraced, not erased. Her story isn’t just one of survival—it’s about reclaiming her voice and creating space for others to be heard sooner, more clearly, and more fully. Together, these voices shed light on what it means to be perpetually interpreted, often misunderstood, and rarely embraced in full. But more importantly, they reveal what’s possible when systems make room for difference, not just to exist, but to lead. Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions, a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

    59 min
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About

Julie Sowash of Disability Solutions talks with clients, friends, influencers, and advocates from the disability community to discuss the complexities, difficulties, and successes of disability employment.  In this honest and very human podcast, we analyze and dissect workplace trends, government policies, biases, and more, shedding light on disability inclusion and the people who are changing minds and changing lives. 

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