Progressing Forward: A Discussion on Health, Wellbeing, and Accessibility

Troy Vincent is honored to welcome Senator Tom Harkin, a pivotal force behind the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Dr. Matthew Reed, Executive Director of the Harkin Institute, for a conversation here today that is equal parts informative and moving.

Beginning with Troy’s story of his father's inspiring journey of overcoming disability, our panel goes on to explore Senator Harkin’s personal experiences with disability, the evolution of the ADA, and the significance of preventive healthcare. Emphasizing the value of supporting employees beyond work and showcasing how this approach benefits businesses, they also highlight the Harkin Institute’s efforts to create a more inclusive world, focusing on mental health, community engagement, and the importance of hiring individuals with disabilities.

This very special episode is a compelling reminder that investing in inclusivity and well-being is not just beneficial—it’s essential for a thriving future.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Importance of Supporting Employees Beyond Work Hours

01:05 Introduction to Senator Harkin and Dr. Reed

02:19 Inspiring Story of Overcoming Adversity

03:53 Recognizing Senator Harkin's Impact on Disability Rights

04:55 Influences Behind Senator Harkin’s Focus on Disability Inclusion

08:54 Evolution of Closed Captioning for Accessibility

10:00 A Game Changer for Accessibility

11:16 Shifting Focus to Preventive Healthcare

13:22 Role of Prevention in the American Healthcare System

15:05 The Harkin Institute’s Role in Promoting Inclusivity and Wellness

17:30 Addressing Youth Anxiety and Isolation Through Community Engagement

18:58 Removing Sugary Drinks and Promoting Nutrition in Schools

23:29 Expanding Access to Fresh Produce in Schools Nationwide

24:33 Tackling Food Deserts with Fresh Options in Rural Areas

26:17 Mental Health Support for Kids in Schools

28:04 Project Uplift Supporting Low Income Families in Iowa

29:54 Research on Health Impacts of Industrial Animal Farming

32:03 Addressing Environmental and Health Impacts of Factory Farming

34:11 The Role of Businesses in Supporting Whole Person Wellness

37:45 The Business Benefits of Hiring People with Disabilities

40:04 Workplace Flexibility and Self Care Practices Boosting Retention

45:39 Employment as a Key to Independence for People with Disabilities

46:08 Finding Positivity Through Nature and Community

47:42 Celebrating Personal Achievements and Impactful Moments

Key Takeaways:

"Senator Harkin's ADA work is one of the most important civil rights laws in U.S. history."

"In America, we don't have a healthcare system. We have a sick care system."

"Businesses that focus on employee health and well-being are the most successful."

"A healthy workforce is the foundation of thriving organizations and communities."

"Prevention and wellness save lives and money, but we focus on patching and curing."

"The value of hiring people with disabilities is not just goodwill. It's about better business outcomes."

"Businesses that care for the whole person have the highest productivity and best profit margins."

"The whole person approach is now a priority for 55% of HR professionals, a shift from 15 years ago."

Resources:

Who is Navigate? Learn more at navigatewell.com 

Learn more about the ROI of employee wellbeing - https://info.navigatewell.com/roi-whitepaper

Senator Tom Harkin: https://www.tomharkin.com/

The Harkin Institute: https://harkininstitute.drake.edu/