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Call for questions: Disability sociology (Patreon)

Published:
2023-09-21 20:17:31
Imported:
2026-06

Content

Hello hello! Tomorrow I'm chatting with a lovely expert who studies how societies interact with disability, defining disability, identities around it, community, accessibility, invisible illnesses and so much more. So ask your questions -- and don't be shy about them. Remember, if you have the question, chances are someone else does but is afraid to ask it. 

Also if for any reason you'd like your name withheld on a question, or I've said your name wrong before, let me know! 

Okay, let's have 'em. 

Comments

Anna Thompson

I'd love to learn more about the debate between things like "diabetics vs people with diabetes". As someone outside of the disability community the nuances of the wording often gets lost on me.

Gracie Zrain

What are your thoughts about universal design for learning and the complexities of different people's disabilities conflicting with each other and the myth of learning styles?

Matt Hirschl

What is the number one amendment to the ADA you would make if you had the magic stick?

JENN 'Benthopelagic squirrel' ALVAREZ

What can I do to be a better ally to disabled persons? I already do not park in handicap spots bc im not an asshole. I also don't use my foot to flush in public bathrooms anymore bc a disabled person may use their hands to flush and that's just gross. What else could I do?

Kelli Brockington

Why do people say "I am so sorry" to me when I let folks know I have a son with Autism / Asperger's? What is wrong with these people? He is a wonderful adult who is doing just fine.

phinn markson

I'm curious how it appears (to my western self) that in cultures that have a confucian history disability is very complicated and has myriad qualities and judgments implied. Eg, if I am disable today, it is because of an ancestral wrong that has carried forward but I am also equally at fault for being weak and I can also spread my disability. Again this is just my western perception in what I see in media depictions. I would love to hear about this

Chris Brewer

What country is the best at assisting those with disabilities, and where does the US rank?

Greg Walloch

What are the different ways that disability is defined and constructed in society? Does everybody have a disability of some kind? Is needing an emotional support animal the same as somebody with a mobility impairment?

aa.brown.bb

How do we work through internalized ablism? (I have chronic pain from hypermobility EDS and occasionally it's bad enough I need a cane, but most days I look fine on the outside, so I have a hard time claiming I'm disabled)

Lily

How do different countries support their disabled communities, and how does the US rank amongst them? Im also curious if there are any international organizations that work to elevate standards across the globe/make life more accessible.

Maddie Townsend

I teach English and foundational literacy to adult refugees. So many assessments and services for refugees with disabilities don't take the intersections of literacy, educational background, low income, and low-resource languages into account, and are incredibly inaccessible. Is this an issue you can speak to at all, and do you know any resources or research I could look into? Thanks in advance!

Amelia Frank

As the owner of a small person, I am not sure what to do when my kid asks “why does that person have [X] assistive device?” On the one hand I don’t want to speak for another person and take away their agency - on the other hand I don’t want to say “well let’s ask the person!” because they may not want to explain and their role isn’t to teach my child. I usually say something like “Mom and Dad need glasses to see - and that person needs X to do X” but I think I may be vastly oversimplifying a complex identity…thoughts? Halp?

Roxanna McLaughlin

Hi Allie! A couple years ago I attended a tour of the Red Desert in Wyoming. I learned that archeological findings indicated that prehistoric peoples of that regions kept a separate camp for those unable to keep up with the nomadic life of the rest of the tribe, and this camp was sustained by regular visits of able bodied tribe members. Has your guest knowledge of this practice of indigenous people? I thought it was so cool when I heard it. Wow! Oh and of course I love the show, Allie, and am so happy you took tender care of you!

Marcelle Slote

oooh i’ve been excited for a topic like this as i’m disabled myself (both not ablebodied and not neurotypical). currently in the process of adapting to chronic neurological illness that’s worsened. i suppose my question is about things like the acceptance of disability and how it integrates into society as a regular occurrence that’s still deserving of consideration; for example eyeglasses and contacts!! since eyeglasses are very normalized in our society, most of us don’t even think of having low vision (unless you’re considered legally blind or otherwise) as a disability. tl;dr, what could activism do to help achieve a similar acceptance for other disabilities? what do we think the future looks like for these goals based on what we currently know? for alie’s notes: my name is pronounced as it’s written! you can say marcelle S. if my question makes it in lol think of how you would say “single celled organism” and change celled to marcelle. remove the D and you’re set (you’d be surprised at the amount of people who don’t know how to pronounce my name!) thank you for the opportunity as always!!!!!!! excited for this episode!!!

aa.brown.bb

How do we politely dodge the "what's wrong," or "what happened" questions people ask about when our disabilities are visible? Sure they may be curious, but it can happen so often and be draining, especially when talking to strangers

Sally Henceforth

Where did the concept of 'spoons' originate? I love using this in my own life and learned it from friends in the disabled community.

Archie George

How long have learning disabilities been recognized and how have different societies tried to help people use alternative learning methods? I’m a dyslexic with a professional degree and I have always thought that if I were born 100 years earlier, I would be a cook instead.

Lena Gwen

What is the difference between a chronic illness and a disability?

Greg Walloch

How do social inequalities around race, class, gender and orientation intersect with and influence disability and the perception of it?

Jessi Jordan

I'm curious to hear about how disabled folks (like myself) build community (amongst our/themselves and intersectionally), both pre-pandemic and currently. I also would love to hear the expert discuss any limitations they see to the social model of disability.

Between Dumplings

Who's getting adaptations right? In Boston, we have curb cuts but no one enforces leaving them accessible for people who need them. We also have lots of old brick sidewalks, cobblestones, and potholes galore. I think years ago we were kind of leaders in accommodations for disabled neighbors, but I feel like it cannot be true now? Also, I'm a stickler for dropping "the" when we mention people outside our narrow circle: Unhoused neighbors vs. "the homeless" or disabled or differently abled as opposed to "the disabled" it is SO othering. Once you put someone in that "different" box over there, their issues seem less like our issues. Do you prefer "differently abled"?

Dave Cannon

Throughout history it seems like difference is interpreted as disability. Have we gotten better, worse?

Mushroom Morgan

Any tips for getting mobility aids as a young person?

Mushroom Morgan

I have had multiple doctors tell me that I fit all the criteria for a disability but there's no point in a diagnosis because "I'm managing them well enough on my own." Where do they get the audacity?

Joe

I’m going to use myself as an example, but I mean this to be a broad question that’s not just specific to me. I have a condition where, to summarize, I’ve lost about 80% of my hearing in one ear and the other ear is (usually, but not always) as it has always been. I feel like such an asshole if I say I have a disability: it mostly doesn’t change my life, I can work, it’s invisible, not everyone I meet knows I have it. But I also don’t feel like I belong in the non-disabled community either. I have really awful days occasionally where I can’t hear anyone and crowds are impossible. And acting as though I’m who I was before I had this denies a part of me. I guess the question is, how does one deal with this? It’s a liminal space in a society that deals in binaries. I would love some advice or perspective, and hopefully I’m asking a question that resonates with others.

Emmett M Wald

What do you see as the limitations of the social model of disability?

Molly Rupp

Word vom cause not sure how to articulate, but: dating with disability! Is there a trick to navigating it without feeling shitty about myself or too "needy"? Right now it's a great barometer to weed out the terrible people but as a fat woman, dating can already be a nightmare - adding on needing some accommodations and generally constantly navigating rocky health things is daunting to trying to find a partner. HELP.

Megan Lynch

Many marginalized communities have this issue as well, but as a disabled person I struggle with it specifically as regards disability/ableism: Your identity is actually something part of the broad spectrum of human experience. I think disability is just a regular part of being human. But because systemic oppressions create a category and "other" you, you identify by the category imposed by the oppressor even when you're trying to dismantle the systemic oppression (in this case ableism). So we want to dismantle ableism and I'd like it if disability were eventually just seen as part of being human, like some folks have brown hair, some don't. Not othered, not punished, not stigmatized. How do we see disability identity evolving if we ever manage to dismantle systemic ableism? Esp as concerns the social model of disability. Some disabled people (and who don't have internalized ableism) would be happy to be cured, for example. But some members of the disability community are marginalized for who they are as much as any medical condition, and do not want to be "cured" of who they are. Thoughts on this?

Charlie

Could you ask them to talk about deaf communities and their position in society please and do they think its reasonable to make Sign language a mandatory part of education seeing as it is an invisible disability that can easily lead to unintentional social exclusion. (I'm currently learning BSL and I want to learn ASL and think everyone could benefit from learning the basics)

Emmett M Wald

I'm really interested in Mia Mingus' work; but what does access intimacy look like in practice?

Jess Bauzá de García

Oooh! I'm so excited for this episode! I started accessibility consulting, and I'm always astounded that non-disabled people seem to forget disabled folks exist! What do you say to folks who try to dismiss the existence of certain disabilities (like EDS, chronic pain, autism, etc.)? I run into many folks when I'm consulting that are like, 'back in my day, we didn't have all these [insert disability] things! no one wants to work! you just have to toughen up!!' I often just let a really long, awkward silence stretch on until someone else changes the subject!

Dr. Lina Carpenter

THANK YOU FOR DOING THIS EPISODE ALIE! I hope you're feeling better and rested! What can teachers/professors, advocates, and union organizers do for disabled students and employees to make higher education truly inclusive? (This applies to preK-12 too!) How can we support those with invisible disabilities? I know folks who have gotten yelled at for parking in handicapped spots because they can walk and "look fine," and I'd love to know how we can push back against that kind of behavior. How can we normalize the word "disabled?" I might be misinformed, but my understanding is that it's a legally protected term we should be de-stigmatizing because without that legally protected term we can't advocate for accommodations. Would also love to hear discussion about how the disabled population got through COVID -- there were disruptions in care and we saw a ton of accommodations pop up because "normal" people needed them, but we're now seeing a push to "return to in-person" without providing accommodations. And what do we know about long COVID and how it's incapacitating people -- and the intersection of folks who had pre-existing conditions and now have long COVID on top of it? Let's also talk about mental/emotional disabilities! I felt immensely validated when Dr. Russell Barkley said ADHD is one of the most debilitating outpatient disorders, because there's a narrative of "oh everyone has ADHD these days" -- any tips on how to push back on this gaslighting? What kind of innovations have we seen with generative AI and supporting those with mental/emotional disabilities? (For example, creating an "ADHD" coach on ChatGPT.) And what's up with the ADHD medication shortage and/or formula changes? Why isn't there more recognition about how disruptive missing ADHD medication is? How is it legal/acceptable for formulas to change without notifying patients?

Yuri

YESSSSSSS THIS IS THE EPISODE I DIDN'T KNOW I NEEDED!!

Paul Smith

What are your thoughts on "differently abled" or more broadly, how does the way people talk about disability affect the dignity and experiences of those with disabilities? I feel like sometimes we get so lost in the weeds of semantics

Ashley Oki

Hello! How do you feel about people who are able to manage their ailments (with medications, therapies, etc.) being “allowed” to call themselves disabled? I’ve seen a lot of controversy and I’ve even had people tell me that because I have an invisible disability I can hide fairly easily and somewhat manage with meds, then my using the term ‘disabled’ to refer to myself is harming the disability community as a whole/taking away resources from people who need them. On the flip side, how do you manage people who take advantage of the systems used to help people who are disabled without hurting the people who need them? On one hand, increasing accessibility for everyone is something that should be encouraged, but on the other, when people misuse these aids, it can lead to serious harm. I’m specifically asking about people who buy “service dog” vests for their pets online so that they can bring their pets to places where they’re otherwise not allowed, especially when those animals are reactive towards people, other animals, and the property/business. Lastly I would like to talk about service animals. Why is there no official certification system (to my knowledge) for service animals? Should there be more limits and regulations as to what constitutes as a service animal? (In general but also specifically with regards to the term ‘service animal’ causing the ownership of exotic animals like primates being allowed in public/seen as a socially acceptable animal for individuals to own)

Bee

I have psoriatic arthritis, and with chronic pain comes good days and bad days. On my bad days I use a cane to help me get around and because I’m in my early 30s I get a lot of weird looks and frankly offensive comments about being “attention seeking.” It often leaves me feeling like my disability is somehow less because I don’t need to use mobility aids consistently. How common do people - especially young people with invisible disabilities - report dealing with these kinds of situations and what can be done on a societal level to help combat it?

Sleepy Frog Lauren

I know some countries have considered or are considering adding obesity as a disability. Have you seen that considered in your work? Fatphobia seems to be as rampant as ableism and mistreatment of those with disabilities. Do you consider that ableism or a different kind of discrimination?

Rozelyn Hesby

What is the best way to destigmatize folks with disabilities for a young child (5 yo)? I feel like it’s more of a me issue, but my son will sometimes ask about facial, physical characteristics, or communication differences in front of an individual and I’m never totally sure to address without making them feel uncomfortable.

Unity

We tell them they’ll have to buy our book when it comes out 😉✨🫶

Crystal Mendoza

Curious how people with cope with being categorized as having a disability when they may otherwise present as not having one. Personally, I have fibromyalgia and I don’t have pain related symptoms most of the time (for which I’m super lucky) but I feel so guilty claiming I have a disability and have had experiences where I’m not believed… (hope that makes sense!)

Scarlet P

Do you have any advice for people with invisible disabilities who struggle with imposter system or gaslighting?

Kleb

High levels of intelligence cause segregation from normal (in the statistical meaning) people. It makes it harder to have friends, to be understood, to keep jobs, to be in relationships... But it isn't classed as a disability. More than that, it would be really awkward to say it out loud, expecting some kind of empathy. My bet would be on the opposite effect. So it becomes something to be carried in silence, but that disables the individual from social life, causing mental health damage by isolation. Is there any attention to, or discussion about this in the disabilities studies?

Kellee Toler

How can I convince my disabled grandmother that calling myself disabled is not a bad thing like calling myself ugly? She's so scandalized by something I consider part of my identity.

Beet lover

First time question asker! I have an autoimmune thyroid disorder and sometimes identify as disabled. Can you talk about how the chronically ill and disabled communities overlap? Have there been studies on how people with thyroid disorders identify? Or relate to their illness generally?

Hannah Gorrie

Which are the best and worst countries/societies for disabled people's access and equity in the modern age? Are there times/places in history that have been more accessible and supportive than we are now?

Kim Raquet

I don’t have a question on this at the moment, but as a case manager who works with folks with developmental disabilities and autism I just want to thank you for doing this topic! I’m excited to hear it and share with my colleagues! Living in Vermont we have a lot of families we work with who are new American and I’m excited to hear a perspective of other cultures and how they deal with disabilities and see similarities or differences in our experiences working with these families. Thanks again Allie you’re the best!

Nolan Childerhose

Is the practice of pretending to have a disability a very common issue? From fraudulent emotional support animals to people on social media mimicking disabilities for attention, it's reported online as quite frequent.

Katie D

First time question asker! Do anxiety disorders count as disabilities if you can function normally 99.9% of the time? I'm never sure what to put on demographics forms so I put "prefer not to answer." Also, when that is asked on like job applications and stuff, is it possible to be discriminated against?

Madeline Duke

As someone with a disability, what can I do to make the non-stop stress of managing my disability easier? It can be so frustrating to know that there are no breaks, and I am in this forever, how can I lessen the sense of general dread and doom that surrounds me on the hard days?

Kim Raquet

And with that - even which state. Coming from someone who has worked in the field in a few different states I’m curious which may be the best and worst as they do all vary differently.

Ashley Oki

I was also wondering if you could touch on the growing awareness/popularity of ‘sensory inclusivity’ events/management tools? And ways that individuals can make sure that the place they work are disability sensitive? Also any thoughts on equity programs that are focused on people with disabilities? There was also a big stir a few years ago when Major League Baseball (MLB) decided to switch from using the term ‘disabled list’ to ‘injured list’ for their players who were sick/injured/otherwise incapacitated. I don’t know if this part is true or not, but I was told that it was because players felt discriminated against/misrepresented by being called disabled. Do you have any thoughts on this change/on the language used to talk about people who are temporarily differently abled? Or how stigma can affect the use of the term ‘disabled’?

Kleb

(I guess I clarified/improved this question after discussion with Marcelle, below) How should society draw a line between tolerating mental disabilities and punishing individuals to control behaviours? For example, a friend of mine ;) has been groped by a lady that clearly has some kind of mental health issues. The victim now is divided between wanting to denounce the sexual harassment to the police OR forgive and suggest that the woman get treatment. But damn, it's hard to go for the second choice!

Shanna Mandell

Why is it male brains exhibit certain learning disabilities more severely than female brains? For example, my oldest brother and I both have dysgraphia (dyslexia that affects the handwriting and we kinda suck at math). My handwriting is legible and I probably could have gotten through Algebra well if it was not for the whole perm sub my freshman year where I learned nothing. My brother however has handwriting that rivals a doctors on a prescription pad and struggled in math. When my brother was diagnoised as a kid they told my mom (this was the 70's) that if she had a girl that the dysgraphia would not be as sever. Also my speech is, some would say unfortunately, not affected as badly either.

Greg Walloch

Yes! This!! I freely and comfortably use the term *disabled* to refer to myself and others with disabilities. I've often had able-bodied people correct me and insist I use a more politically correct term when referring to myself. Um... fuck off!

Steve Cahill

What are the biggest gaps in the way we currently teach and socialize concepts around disability to school-age children?

Linda Geffin

Alie, you rock! This is about science-what????- you make it so fun! That being said, disability and invisible injuries is an important topic in general and for me. I was assaulted and received a serious traumatic brain injury. My experience has been if you're not bleeding or have a bone protruding through your skin, you're fine...go back to work, why are you tired in the middle of the day, etc. etc. Looking forward to the show!

Ashley Oki

This is a USA specific question: why is it SO HARD to get disability benefits here??? It is notoriously difficult and causes people with disabilities to suffer financially and deal with a whole load of stress on top of everything else they’re already dealing with. How does disability treatment (by both society as whole and the government) vary based on where you’re from? Why are insurance companies in some places allowed to discriminate against you based on your health history/disability status?

The Young Squire Pettypants

What are examples of society (mainstream, fringe, past, current) giving special recognition and/or valued responsibilities to creatures (human or otherwise) considered to be disabled?

ava

How do you decide what classes as a disability versus just an illness or struggle. How do you not invalidate both actual disabled people, or just sick & struggling people. For example; Neurodivergent folks, ASD & ADHD are some or all disabled? Who gets to decide that and how? Thanks so much

ConnieConnieBoBonnie

I'm a person who really loves helping strangers in little ways, like taking their cart back if I'm on my way to the store from the parking lot, holding the door if their hands are full or just to be nice, saying hello, generally making small talk (I'm from the South, lol). Sometimes when I meet someone with a noticeable disability I hold back from helping because I don't want them to feel like I'm patronizing or belittling them. They don't know that I do those kinds of things for lots of folks. I only want to be helpful if that is a positive thing for them and I'm often unsure. I feel like even asking if it would be okay seems potentially fraught. I'd appreciate any ideas you have. Just out here trying not be shitty.

Katherine Morse

I am a lifetime wheelchair user with Cerebral Palsy and strong opinions about terminology. I hate differently abled, it reeks of condescension or social worker trying too hard. Disabled best, handicapped old fashioned but OK.

Morgan

Are there any signs that getting disability benefits is going to become easier? I'm helping my mom apply for benefits currently, and the system is so unfriendly to anyone with executive function issues. She's fully expecting to be denied at first since all of her disabilities are invisible. Is there hope on the horizon?

Ashley Oki

Re: Disclosing disability status- I can get away with pretending I don’t have a disability in front of others most of the time, but it feels like I’m hiding a part of who I am, including the pain I am experiencing and what day to day life is actually like for me. However, I was warned by doctors and family to NEVER disclose my disability status or the disabilities I have because it would put me at risk of being discriminated against and dealing with people prying too much into my life. How do you handle wanting to be your authentic self and helping destigmatize the term ‘disabled’ without putting yourself at risk?

Kleb

How to deal with people that take advantage of the supporting systems for disabled people, without having disabilities? Like getting false diagnosis and claiming government/charity benefits. Any research on % the beneficiaries in that group?

Adam McInnes

How do we make the internet more accessible for everyone? Are there certain methods of design we should be following in web development to ensure that everyone can use websites as equitably as possible?

Kleb

(Polite version below) What are best ways of dealing with a*holes that park on disabled parking spots? Funniest ones? A friend of mine ;) used to carry long nails for the 4 tyres, or think of scratching car paint head to tail lights, or simple leave a "you're an a*hole, please don't reproduce" note, with a condom attached.

Jessica Ward

For adults who aren't looking for treatment changes what are the pros and cons of getting an "official" diagnosis?

Kathryn Daniels

What's a good way for able bodied people to work for access and justice without taking over? As a currently non-disabled person, I work in healthcare and outdoor accessibility, and I want to educate other able bodied people about access without using up all the oxygen in the room or making disabled people do all the heavy lifting when it comes to educating able bodied folks. I'm also aware that everything I'm doing needs to follow the lead of people with disabilities and lived experience, but I don't want to step on toes or risk dominating the conversation.

ConnieConnieBoBonnie

Not sure if this is right or not, but I usually say sometime like, "Oh yeah, the world is full of all kinds of people who are different and alike in many ways. That is what makes the world such a beautiful place!" If the person with the difference is a child and it's a social setting I'll say something like "Looks like they like Pokemon, just like you! I wonder if they brought their cards to trade." or "

Rebecca Morrison

FTQA: are there societies that have figured out easy integration of all persons from which we can learn?

Marcelle Slote

i won’t lie man, this and your other two questions on this thread are a little odd and seem kinda out of place and irrelevant to the topic calling for questions; it’s pretty uncomfortable. you even said yourself “*seems* to have some kind of mental health issues,” no confirmation. this comes off pretty stigmatizing and really isn’t something to ask about here; i hope you and your friend are well, but i don’t think highly personal and frankly inappropriate questions like this are what is being asked for out here

Bill LaBranche

FTQA What is the politically correct way to refer to disabilities... "specially able", "challenged", "uniquely gifted", "atypical abilities"? And not to sound too judge-y but what's your take on those who may amplify the challenges that EVERYONE faces and call it a DISABILITY... where's the line that shouldn't be crossed? P.S. Alie, you rock!

Ashley Oki

My apologies, I truly meant no offense. I don’t mean to argue, but I would just like to explain that I personally sometimes use the term differently abled because that’s a term I feel more comfortable using for myself and have found it to be a helpful term when communicating my needs to others as someone with an invisible disability. I can take down that term if you’d like; I truly did not mean to cause any offense whatsoever.

Sam Moody

Hi Dadward! I'm HoH and I experience ableism most often in the workplace while trying to get accommodations. I can never seem to find a company that is willing to hire me AND listen to my accommodations (as a writer, the big one is "why can't you do meeting minutes? that's literally your job!"). Do you have any advice??

Jessica Ward

Do fat people experience disability differently?

Micaela Corn

FTQA: Im late to the game in reading Yuval Noah Harari’s “Sapiens: a brief history of humankind” and it’s making me wonder about some of the earliest societies that began to see disability as something worthy of accommodation rather than disregard or even extermination. What accounted for the earliest cultural and societal tolerance of disability, and Can we tap into that more to advance the modern disability rights movement? (I’m halfway through the book so I’m sorry if Harari talks about this and I just haven’t gotten to that part yet!)

Alli Barg

neurodivergence and disability - I’ve seen some people describe ASD and ADHD as a disability and others adamantly disagree. Is there a line where being neurodiverse affects someone’s life in such a way that it becomes a disability or is it a matter of self-identifying one way or the other?

Marcelle Slote

highly interested in this question as well! trey the explainer (youtuber) did a respectful video on disabilities in prehistory that i found very heartwarming and intriguing!

Katherine Morse

How can we support members of the disability community in being treated as adults? The general public seems to understand that there can be cute kids or frail elders with disabilities but there is a gap in representation of adults except for a few amazing paralympians. I am disabled from birth. I have Cerebral Palsy and use a power wheelchair. I literally assumed that I would grow out of my disability or die before I graduated because I was always supported and encouraged in school but never saw independent adult roll models outside institutional settings!

Steffany Halfrey

In May of this year I had foot surgery and spent a couple months oscillating between a knee scooter, crutches, boot, etc. Before this very temporary ailment, I never fully realized how unfriendly public spaces can be for navigation. I live in a large apartment building that is fairly new, ~5 years old, and was shocked that this layout met ADA regulations (no open door buttons, large transitions between doorways making it difficult to navigate). I assume this is a wide spread issue and my questions are: 1. Is this disregard for regulations negligence/finding loopholes because they don’t expect anyone to come after them in a court of law? Or is it intentional/are these navigationally unfriendly spaces meant to silently send a message to discourage disabled folks, the elderly, etc. from populating these spaces? 2. More broadly, what can I do as an average person, with no special influence, to advocate for/support accessible spaces whether for physical or invisible disabilities without being ableist?

Kellaby

I am interested in their thoughts on neurodivergence and where it fits with disability. I am autistic and it seems adult autistics are divided on whether they identify as disabled or not. I wonder how much of that is just people being disabled by a lack of resources and accomodations available to them, and if society stopped stigmatising and started accepting neurodiversity if we’d view it differently.

Quincey Robisheaux

Do you think disability will be better viewed and treated anytime soon?

Greg Walloch

Can we please take a moment to say this? Please do not stop people with disabilities in the street and try to pray with them or lay hands on them to heal them or tell them you're sending them love and light or that you admire their bravery and will to simply carry on living, etc. Although you may think your heart's in the right place, it's offensive... I walk with crutches and friends never believe me when I talk about how often this occurs, but it happens on more days than not. It's so exhausting you guys, knock it off... Also I own a taser, you've been warned. Can they speak about the weight of projected perceptions and how that affects people with disabilities?

Max G

I've been struggling to get even self-identified leftists to see the importance of COVID mitigations as part of accessibility measures and disabled safety in public spaces, especially the most basic one of wearing a mask in public spaces and requiring them at events (with exceptions for those who are unable to due to disability). What have you seen about how COVID is influencing the sphere of disability sociology, both as a mass-disabling event and an airborne illness that has been downplayed by those in power?

Ashley Oki

Could you please touch on the once again rising trend of using eugenics to talk about disabled people? Especially now, when potential parents can be genetically screened to see the likelihood of their child developing a certain disease/illness/disability and using that to affect their decision, or how disabled parents are frequently asked if they’re “worried the kid will turn out like them”. I have also seen many disabled people talk about them not wanting to have kids because they don’t want to subject them to the lifestyle they live, or having a parent who has different needs/abilities than one who is able bodied, as well as people passing judgement by saying that certain disabled people (or all of them) shouldn’t have children because of the life they’re forcing the children into. While I fully acknowledge and believe that each individual has the right to decide if they procreate or not and should have full control of that decision and process, I was wondering if you consider the increasing social acceptability of these conversations and beliefs to be worrying, especially when it comes to people imposing their opinions/judgements on other peoples’ reproductive rights and the potential greater ramifications of their words and potential actions?

Mara Schoner

In British Columbia there is a group of deaf and hard of hearing people who are advocating to have the DHH community recognized as a distinct culture. It has many properties of a culture - its own language, cultural norms, etc. Any thoughts on this? Also any discussion of neurodivergence is very welcome.

Janice

How can we advocate for accessibility in outdoor/nature spaces in our community? Thinking of people who use mobility aids or have balance issues, etc. I know Joseph Saunders (former guest) runs up against this a lot in his photography. People shouldn't have diminished access to nature because because they have a disability.

L. Wink

Special Education Teacher here: Can your guest discuss the process and difference between a disability/ 504 plan/ and IEP (individual education plan)?

Kleb

I disagree. The word *sociology* in the name of the topic relates exactly to the study of the social interactions related to disabilities. The "seems to" is precisely the most important bit of it, as mental disabilities are not visible and make the social interactions much more complex. The example is real and therefore not inappropriate. It would be inappropriate to pretend this does not happen in society, specially in a podcast based in science and not morality. Either way, thank you for the opinion and for the time writing it.

Char Harrison

As someone with ADHD I don’t see myself with a disability, and haven’t used that label. But within my university I’ve been linked up with the disability services, how do I reconcile how I see myself with the services I’m offered to help me succeed in my degree?

ConnieConnieBoBonnie

I just saw that the new LEGO Friends line has characters with disabilities, including one with a limb difference! They haven't explicitly named the disability for each character, which I think is an interesting choice. It's like it is in life - we don't know what disabilities people have, some are visible and some are not. I'm glad LEGO has made this step, but I know we have a long way to go. What would you like to see happen in the toy industry so that it better serves disabled kids (and adults)?

Cathy Niemann

Please talk about the spoon metaphor/theory!

Lara Foote

1) My sibling lives with me because her visible disability has her unable to work. SSD and Medicare do not come close to covering her monthly out of pocket medical expenses. Yet tax wise, I get no credit for housing her. 2) As well, with a visible disability, people don’t think twice about commenting on her appearance - or worse, recoiling in fear and saying hateful things. How to better educate the public about visible disability? 3) And how to manage parents that think they are saints because they raised the disabled child, when they feel they deserve regular thanks and praise for keeping the child alive?

TayBo33

Can you talk about how hard it is for people who use Service Dogs, Guide Dogs, Ect. to get the proper access and respect that they deserve? I've worked at multiple restaurants over the years and never knew that service dogs didn't need specific papers to gain access. I just feel like the public is super uneducated when it comes to things like this. Also, future cool edisode idea - talking to someone about the difference between service dogs, working dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support animals 👀👀👀 I like animals...if that wasn't clear...ok thank you dad! 🥰

Kleb

Hi Ava, in the book Taking Charge of Adult ADHD, Dr Russell (which I got to know through an episode of this very podcast ❤) states ADHD is considered a disability. He even discuss the fact of letting your employer know if you have it or not, which relates directly to the topic of this podcast. In a nutshell, finally it is, but if you lay it out, purple might have percussive and it can be bad for you. So it is really if you need adaptations for work (segregated/silent environment, etc)

Marcelle Slote

respectfully, i disagree and think that this is a highly personal question that does not cover much of what is looking to be discussed. you also used some rather interesting language at the beginning of your question, such as “*tolerating* mental disabilities” alongside specific word choices like punishing & control. this all points to a question that does not seek to understand, but to validate a world view. regardless, you and your friend have zero confirmation of this person having a disability; and the preoccupation with this seems to be troubling in itself.

Kleb

Hi Jessica, for what kind of disability, you mean? Or all? I guess there's a part of it that's a relief of just knowing for sure what's going on with you. And back to the sociology part, maybe that will help you find people in the same condition, feel included and have who to talk to about it, maybe find specific resources to make your life better too.

Kleb

Woooow, amazing question!

Emily Staw-fur

I recently saw an online debate around accessibility at playgrounds. And the debate was about whether or not non-disabled children should use the swings intended for those with disabilities when nobody else needs the swing. On the one hand I could understand why leaving them open is better because of invisible disabilities. It also prevents a potential awkward situation when you purposely move after seeing somebody who appears to have disabilities. But on the other hand, it feels like If anyone uses them as long as there is no one clearly in need of one, it normalizes the use of them. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this

Sarah king

all the history!! And how are some places still getting away without elevators and ramps?

Kleb

I'll make this politically correct for you: how can members of society take ownership and act in order to guarantee that reserved spaces for disabled people are respected? Also, please include funny, creative and sarcastic options.

Ray Holloman

What are appropriate ways to ask someone with a disability if they need assistance during an emergency event?

Emily Staw-fur

Who decides what terms are "politically correct". Of course there have been a lot of changes in how we refer to disabled people over the past few decades. Is there some kind of committee? Or is it just brought on by popular usage?

Emily Staw-fur

As a follow-up, I certainly understand the significance of trying to be inclusive with any terminology we use. But at what point do we stop focusing on trying to find the "perfect word" and focus more on changing the stigmas associated with disabilities. Or maybe these go hand in hand?

Teresa & David

Yes! Everyone needs to understand about spoon theory!

Leah Gia

First time asker, LONG time listener here! I gasped to see this in my e-mail as today is the 12 year anniversary of the car accident that left me with a spinal cord injury and a full time wheelchair user. 12 years ago I joined the massively beautiful and diverse community of people living with disability. I am so, so proud to be a disabled woman. I am a passionate advocate for myself and every disabled person to have the same access to events and establishments that able bodied people do. I could talk for hours on this topic just purely off of my lived experience, but *alas*, my question(s) are what are some ways communities are rallying around and for their disabled neighbors? For example, with the popularity of modern design more spaces have the ability to be accessible for those who use mobility aids, therefore, it is accessible design - Open floor plans and minimalist design helps to make a space more wheelchair accessible. However I don't expect that that design was made specifically for and with disabled people in mind. In general, can we talk about some ways that society can put disabled people at the forefront of their planning, and not as an afterthought? (Besides, of course, by hiring and putting disabled people in positions of power). All minority groups deserve recognition and rights, then why is it that disabled people tend to be at the end of that list within society? Even though anyone, at any time, is at risk of become disabled due to injury or illness?

Leah Gia

I rambled towards the end, forgive me! But I have MANY thoughts on this. Thank you SO MUCH for this episode!!!

Kleb

Your statement that "there's zero confirmation of disability" is precisely the core of my question. Question is, as we are discussing society, how do you define what behaviour is acceptable or not when there's no clarity of disability. I'll give you an extreme: a psychopath suffers of mental disabilities and kill children. Goes to psychiatric detention, gets isolated from society. Clear. Right? What about the cases in which there is harassment, violence, etc, but it isn't as clear, like a person groping another, with only slight signs of mental disorder? Do you arrest them? Do you take into consideration it might be a health problem? I hope this makes it clearer.

Euan Munro

This is an interesting question. It seems like often with these sort of things, some people ruin it for everyone else!

Emily Staw-fur

When I was in high school, I volunteered at the hospital my dad worked up. At the same time, my dad was going through chemotherapy which left him fatigued and his legs were very weak. On the days I volunteered, I would drive us both. One day I had a grown man call me out for parking in a disabled spot. I was left speechless, and I think back all the time on what I wish I could have said to him. This experience certainly was foundational for me when it came to invisible disabilities. But how should things like this be handled when a seemingly able person does park in a disabled spot? Is it actually worth calling them out? Or do we just let them deal with whatever moral repercussions that may have?

Trevor Hagedorn

Do veterans with disabilities get treated or viewed differently from others with disabilities?

Teresa & David

How do we balance the needs of people with different disabilities? For example, those street corners with the yellow bumps may be great for the visually impaired, but people like my mom who are unsteady on their feet find it hard to keep their balance. Wheelchair users, do you find those bumps a help or hindrance? Another example: Supermarket self checkout machines talk you through everything. That voice may be helpful for the hearing impaired, but can be overwhelming for those with auditory or sensory sensitivities (and there's no way to mute some of them).

Betsy

I’m seconding this question but as a recently diagnosed early career professional! I’m really struggling to know how to ask for the support I need to be really great at my job - both because of my own internal view of neurodivergence “not really being a big deal” and also because of the public perception of it not being a big deal. But I KNOW I could do so much more and be so much happier with my work with the right support. (Thanks for asking Char 💛)

Teresa & David

If you replace the word "disability" with "medical condition", does it change how you feel about it? If you had a medical condition, you would go your university's medical office to get medicine/treatment so you could continue to study, right?

Char Harrison

Well see, I should say yes. But as an RN I have to be honest and say no. I’m literally the worst person at seeking medical treatment, ‘do as I say not as I do’ kind of mentality. I fit the stereotype that nurses make the worst patients.

Dave Brewer

I have the same concern about toilet stalls.

Teresa & David

I say go ahead and offer. The patronizing/belittling is more in the tone of your voice than in what you do, just offer it cheerfully, or even suggesting *they* are helping *you* by letting you do your good deed for the day. "Hi, can I get that for you? I love holding doors for people, makes me feel useful." You sound like a lovely person. =)

Zinc

have you ever considered the way we view disability and disabled bodes in alignment with white supremacy? i am disabled and consider the way we categorise bodies as “correct” (in the coloniser’s god’s eyes) to be part of why there is a fabricated exact line between disabled and able-bodied, and white and non-white (as if we are not all mongrels of our many ancestors in inherently flawed bodies).

Alannah Wood

I have ADHD and although it's classed as a disability I don't feel disabled is the right "label" I guess. Is there a way to deal with our internal prejudice or do we just accept that's not how we identify? Also love to hear more on other invisible disabilities and how to help. Also glad to hear you are feeling better Ali!

Kleb

Yes! It would be interesting to know how often and what is done to fix it

Rosalotalita

As a parent of a child with a physical disability, your response feels very spot on. It is really important that you address the question so your children know that this is something we can talk about, and isn’t taboo. Most of the time kids don’t need the whole complex nature, so simple really is best. Thanks for not asking that person! It can be exhausting to explain yourself to strangers.

Dave Brewer

I haven’t been in your position, but I’ve always wondered when it’s okay to ask someone who doesn’t appear disabled what’s going on. I understand invisible disabilities, and people in your situation who are helping someone else, but there are times when it seems neither of those are true. I have never said anything to anyone, but I’ve wanted to.

Teresa & David

A tip from someone who's been through the system: get a disability lawyer. It's worth it. Some people get approved on the first round, everyone gets denied on the second round, but the third and final round is where the lawyer really pays off.

taylor

How can I better advocate for my students with disabilities? It often feels like the traditional school setting doesn’t work for a lot of students in general, and, because of the teacher shortage we are often covering classes for each other and have several support position vacancies, and generally not enough time in the day. Our students with disabilities are the first to not receive the services they need when the rest of the school can “manage” and I feel so shitty being a part of that system. A rather open-ended question, but I’d like to hear your thoughts!

Teresa & David

It would be interesting to see if there is any detailed research. From what I've heard, it's really much less than you would think. There are far more people who SHOULD get benefits but don't, because they don't have the knowledge or energy to navigate the system.

Matt Ceccato

Invisible disabilities: how can we better allies?

Rosalotalita

Absolutely second this, came here to ask a similar question! I’m a biologist who is very concerned about gene editing technologies as we have SO FAR to go in regards to eugenics and disability. I can’t speak to other countries, but the US for sure has not understood its history in eugenics and disability.

Kleb

How sadly far apart are poor and rich countries in dealing with disabilities? In Brazil, for example, those electric wheelchairs are only for rich people, while in the UK you see "poor" (emphasis in quotes) people using them all the time. In extremely poor countries I'd imagine life span is much shorter for people with disabilities, for example, or even disabled babies still killed at birth. (which is terrible, but not difficult to imagine). Regarding government support, are aid products usually exempt of taxes? It would be amazing to see a study showing how these kind of aids increase participation and productivity of that individual in society. A "return on investment" kind of thing, to speak government and businesses language. Maybe get governments to invest more in it.

Lisa P

Just joined this Patreon after listening to a few episodes. Excited to be here and ask questions! US centric, but how can we improve the process of applying for disability assistance? I have a friend who has been trying to get approved for more than a year and their disability includes chronic fatigue. The process requires time and energy they don’t have not to mention receipts that people who may not be able to access health care may not have.

Katherine Morse

Please understand this is not a criticism of you Ashley, just my personal reaction to the different/special terminology.

Katherine Morse

Also I miss the use of Disabled List by MLB. I loved being associated with a sporty word rather than a sickly word. That is why handicap has no negative association for me. It reminds me of golf and horse racing where every competitor has a handicap .

Zinc

just so you know, the uk is full of cruel dehumanising minefields for disabled people and it is incredibly difficult for most of us to get that electric wheelchair without self funding.

Kleb

Betsy, I recommend listening to the ADHD Ologies episode and reading/listening to the non Taking Charge of Adult ADHD. It is helping me a great deal (similar situation to yours here, and up for a chat if you need)

Zinc

it wouldn’t be a problem if poor people weren’t desperate for money in the first place, aka: capitalism is inherently ableist.

Kleb

Imagine that it is even harder in poor countries. The quotes for poor come from the comparison of lowest income values in the different countries, I.e. What poor means in the UK and in Ethiopia, for example. Also if you see how the favelas (slums) are, it's simply impossible to use wheelchairs (which makes poverty a prison for people with disabilities)

Zinc

see: donald rodney

Celiaxolotl

How do we deal with the idea of “disabled enough”? I’m someone who’s struggled with multiple disabling conditions (Celiac, endometriosis, ADHD, and autism, just to name a few), and sometimes I feel as though I am disabled. A lot of the time though, I feel that it would be disingenuous for me to refer to myself as disabled, because I don’t need mobility aids, and although I’m neurodivergent, I have low support needs. How do we make space to heal from internalized ableism, and accommodate ourselves and others who may be more visibly and/or severely affected by their disabilities?

Jordan

FTQA: I recently learned about the Capitol Crawl and the work of disability activists to pass the ADA. Who are some activists you look up to? (historical or current) What contributions should everyone know about?

Crystal Wilson

As a skin bag with a couple invisible disabilities, I find that I have to work twice as hard just to get accomodations. No questions that haven't been addressed. Just dropping by to thank my dad and siblings.

Celiaxolotl

How do we accommodate and plan for future disability? I have a genetic variant that causes muscular dystrophy, and while I don’t yet have symptoms, it’s a certainty that they will start to develop at some point. Others may need to plan for the disabling effects of pregnancy or aging or surgeries. How can we prepare physically and mentally to be disabled?

Katie Armstrong

How much should we seriously be trusting our workplace HR with our health history? Are they really on our side? Or are they gonna turn around and burn us when they want to get rid of us? Also...what is the psychology behind why we are so afraid of the disabled?

Zinc

ableism is so pervasive in our language and how we see people (see: “mentally challenged/ill”, “insane”, “i was blind to…”, etc etc.) , how do we effectively educate others to aid change? so many people don’t even know what ableism means.

Katie Armstrong

Just how big is the lobby AGAINST ADA updates? It seems like we have to scratch and claw for every little improvement. And following that, How realistic is the dream of socialized medicine/goodbye insurance?

Helena

Yay for this topic! I have RA. Is that considered a disability? What's the deal with chronic illnesses vs disabilities? How does one determine this stuff?

Helena

(First time question asker, btw!)

Jenny Lowe Rhodes

How do we get others to see disabled people as people?

Shannon O'Grady

I am a second grade special education teacher and I'm wondering how this guest feels about discussing disabilities with children. I have a hearing loss myself, and always knew about it, was part of the team and participated in making things work for me. I hear so many parents that don't want their kids to know they have a disability or to be "labeled", but I think it is important for them to know. What are their thoughts? (Can you only use my first name if you ask this, don't want any parents to think I'm judging their choices)

Sher Kelz

What’s the best way to approach employers about accessibility issues / are there any stats on how often employers actually take those seriously & implement changes?

Sher Kelz

& thoughts on temporary disability? What benefits should those see? How are people with temporary disabilities viewed? Is there much to see with this outside of the workplace?

Lexie Haranda

I feel you on the endometriosis!

Kyle Christensen

I live with type 1 diabetes. I try to live my life in a way that makes people think I have no extra limitations, which I obviously do have. In our society should I get over it and admit when I am not functioning at 100% or keep pushing through it so no one thinks I'm less capable than others?

Keely Chavez

Initials only on this one please? I was retired from the military due to disability, & for years leading up to that I was shamed & a "shitbag", even though I regularly contributed in my area of expertise. I wonder if your guest would agree that the miliary has some purposeful physical requirements, but they are also missing out on some talented folks for roles when those requirements really aren't necessary (e.g. who cares if your JAG lawyer uses an assistive device?, or if your HR rep is colorblind?) And can you think of other places where reasonable accommodations are not considered and what the alibi for that is?

J

I was wondering what should be done to minimize fake service dogs. I have a service dog and I even had one lady at the grocery store tell me how she bought a service vest and card online so she could bring her dog into the restaurant. She found herself quite clever and I found it an insult to the years of training and effort that goes into certification.

Sir Shakesalot

As someone with an invisible disability, I've so often felt like I am less than I should be or not enough for the people around me. Only in the past few years have I been able to accept that while I may have limitations, those limitations do not define who I am, or the value I contribute to my family, friends, workplace, or society as a whole. Any suggestions for people who may be struggling with similar thoughts (it may be just me) or any resources to help make processing these feelings less of a struggle?

B

With covid having long-lasting health impacts (like potentially permanent shortness of breath, brain fog, fatigue, etc) has there been a noted shift in societal feelings toward disabilities as more people have experienced that. At least in the US it feels as if instead of moving towards understanding and support of people with disabilities, society made an even greater effort to differentiate between having chronic health complications due to covid and being a person with disabilities. Any thoughts to share?

B

Is there an overall preference between “person with disabilities” and “disabled person”? I have heard of “person first” many times but then those same people will say “disabled person/people” and I’m just confused.

Emily P

I'd like to flag this thread for removal by moderators.

Emily P

I'd like to flag this user for derailing in multiple different questions. I recommend removal of this user for creating hostile environment in an otherwise supportive and positive Community.

Celiaxolotl

I’m so sorry you’re dealing with it too! Endo is so awful!

lilmc

Do some disabilities sit more easily with the social model of disability than others? For instance, it's easier to see how my ADHD fits the model than how the chronic pain aspects of conditions like fibromyalgia could fit it.

Jeanette-o-saur

What are the top handful of things a society can do to improve accessibility for everyone? I love the story of the curb cut effect and I want moooaaarr of that goodness! What do I need to put my weight behind to make life awesomer?

Jeanette-o-saur

Were Eurocentric cultures always such a-holes to old/disabled folk? Did we break during the puritan era? How'd we get so shitty? Conversely what cultures have maintained healthy community care the best?

Snakes_N_Bakes

Was curious about this as well. My wife is immunocompromised and soon to be immunosuppressed, and our family and many others my wife has spoken to have experienced discrimination because we continue to mask and take Covid seriously.

Specs Owl

I don't know if this subject will come up anyway, but will you cover the topic of "the R word" and spaz/spastic? I am autistic and those words were used against me throughout my childhood, which was incredibly hurtful at the time. But now I have no problem with people saying those words (as long as they are not insulting someone else) and reclaiming them, but I respect that many other people with disabilities will disagree with me and that's fine.

Jacob Elsbree

Is time blindness considered a disability? Is it even real?

Emily P

In Australia you have to have a special permit that you display on your dashboard to park in disability parking. I am guessing you are US based? You guys need to bring that in!

Fiorelily

I spent so much time and energy mentally running away from my disability, downplaying symptoms and continually pushing myself to "keep up appearances". Now I have family and friends who aren't believing how disabled I've become over the years. How do I let them know I was struggling with disabilities for decades and wasn't lying to them (which has been said to me).

Emily P

Again I would like to flag this participant.

Lauren Seibert

I’m a prosthetist/orthotist in the US working with people with physical disabilities. How can we get people in power (insurance, government) to care about people use need assistive devices (prostheses, etc) so there can be more funding and accessibility to people who need it. There’s such a technology disparity in the field and the people who would benefit from the more expensive, SAFER, technology can’t afford it because of insurance limitations. I just want to see all my patients have the same access level :(

Fiorelily

HR is *always* on the side of the employer, trust me on this. The only reason they give any help/exceptions to you as an employee is because they don't want to be sued. But if your health issues/dusability becomes too problematic, they will weaponize it against you.

Patricia Brewster

More hidden disabilities, Epilepsy? Can’t really even be diagnosed. Sad

BeckytheSassySeagrassScientist

Is it okay to ask about the nature of disabilities if there appears to be one? It feels intrusive, but also like it shouldn't be a taboo subject if we want to normalize disabilities as just a neutral thing.

BeckytheSassySeagrassScientist

How can we make scientific field work fun more inclusive of volunteers or staff with disabilities when for example wetland monitoring requires levels of mobility, strength, dexterity etc?

Cate Muenker

So I’ve seen waaaay to many social media posts responding to people on disability and automatically judging them for taking advantage of the system. Those “invisible” disabilities are so controversial and some are quick to judge before hearing the whole story. I’ve defended a few people who put harmless posts on a town Facebook page asking for odd jobs to supplement their disability and being attacked. I’ve won a few interactions, but it’s like typing words allows people to say the rudest comments to complete strangers! My husband is newly diagnosed as bipolar II and is recently on disability, and my family of 6 is grateful for this financial help. He’s not bad everyday, but often enough to not be able to handle the stress of work, and medications are more harmful than helpful. He often feels bad about having a good day in front of others who might not believe he’s sick, but this feeling is unfortunately enough to start his depression. Why is it STILL not accepted to get disability payments for these types of diseases? (Vent over)

Eating dog hair for a living

I want to know why there aren't stricter regulations to make sure ppl actually are disabled before they can get the plates or hangers for their mirror so they can park in the handicapped spaces, AND why aren't there more arrests for ppl that use those spots when they don't have the stickers or plates?

Madeline DLC

In American society does depression get confused as Autism? How do other societies view depression?

Autonomous Bees

I would also love to hear about the social model of disability vs the medical model of disability. Like, I am disabled by my ADHD because of the way society is. But if I don't take insulin I will die and that's not socially constructed. Is it useful to Differentiate between one kind and the other?

Dana Powell Russell

Why is the US so far behind on adopting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol (https://hdsunflower.com/), and/or do we have a different symbol that institutions use to indicate invisible-disabilities-friendly facilities and programs? And how do people this symbol is designed to support feel about it?

Amy Copler

First-time question asker! I love that you're doing this topic, as I work as a speech pathologist assistant and work with many clients with varying disabilities. How can we help destigmatize disability in our community/ spread awareness?

Emily Staw-fur

We do have permits, but I'm not 100% sure about the laws about them being displayed. I think they are supposed to be displayed in order to park in a handicap spot, but maybe there are exceptions. In my case, I don't think the guy saw my dad's permit.

Dicken Crane

Is there evidence that humans have dealt with the the care and fulfilling future of the disabled in the historical record?

Kelly A McConnell

First ? Asker I recently learned there are ‘disability doulas’ & want to know more about them. I’m a pediatrician currently disabled from hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and related effects on the gut living well on a really really good private disability insurance benefit. I’m starting a sort of patient advocate/chronic multisystemic disease coach/navigator service. I’m wondering how I can be a disability doula and if I already am in some of my peer helping.

Lindsay Mixer

I work in the mental health field currently and one thing I am constantly hearing about is how bad social media is for people’s mental health, and how people need more in-person interactions and relationships to promote a healthy mindset. But for many disabled people—most of my severely disabled and fellow chronically ill friends—don’t have many in-person relationships. Finding people who can roll with the disabled lifestyle is a rare luxury, and one great thing about the Internet has been finding community and building social bonds, norms, and a culture with fellow disabled people because we’re no longer limited by distance. We can have friends anywhere, any time now. My question is, where would you fit disability & disabled life into the debate about being “too” online and its effect on mental health? Is this an example of “oh, this discussion isn’t for us”, or are there ways that it’s profoundly negatively affecting our health and social bonding? (Btw one community I love is the No End In Sight Void, or NEISVoid. Just for anyone who is looking for a space of fellow disabled people! It’s lovely! You can find it as a hashtag on Twitter or the community on discord.)

Pidgey koto

1st time QA: What are ways we can make things accessible without making people share their medical records? There's many reasons why that privacy should be protected & proving it can be just another inconvenience too.

Pidgey koto

How can we address just how much it costs us to be disabled? It isn't something we decide to have but we end up having to pay more just to exist and a lot of times have less earning potential.

Scott Anderson

I’d like suggestions for respectful vocabulary around disabilities. It seems there are communities that don’t like the term “disabled” and resist attitudes that they need to be “fixed.”

Liv

is there/has there always been a link between over pathologizing and women’s rights?

Robin Stumbo

How has perception of disability changed over time/across different cultures?

Valkyrie

Please please please discuss invisible disabilities! I have several, and sometimes the physical ones cause me to use my handicap placard and the drive able carts the grocery stars have. I know it's ok, it's what I need at the time, but the looks I get! Half so full of constant pity....until they see me stand to get something, or walk to my car!

Levin Dotimas

I want to be better at addressing ableism in myself. How do I start?

Kristin 🦦

Are there places that have inclusive design standards in their building codes? How can advocates help? Public comments on designs? Lobbying our local officials? Secretly replacing round doorknobs in the dead of night?

Shawna Rosol

I also have RA and am curious about this too!

Lisa Kahn

FTQA Over the years I've frequently noticed a tension between environmentalist advocacy & disability rights, and also criticism of technological development and disability rights. For example, environmentalists might call for a ban on plastics--which can affect numerous tools and aids people with disabilities need to make life easier. In the emerging technology realm, certain technologies might be seen by some as tools of oppression or surveillance, but could be absolutely liberating for others. How are people with disabilities involved in these spheres? Who is being left out? This being said, is there a concept/term similar to environmental racism that applies to the disability community (since many people with disabilities are indubitably at high risk in the climate crisis)? Also, for those interested in learning more about disabilities, highly recommend reading the book "Disability Visibility" by Alice Wong, and following @adisabledicon on social media. Love them both!

Kelly Shaver

So emotional at the idea of this topic being explored that I can’t make my brain work to ask questions, but I am so fucking grateful that y’all are having this discussion.

Kleb

Emily, thanks for your input. Would you mind elaborating on the the reasons behind it, please?

Kleb

Emily, thanks for your input. Would you mind elaborating on the the reasons behind it, please? (Seriously, trying to understand what's wrong with this according to your view)

Kleb

Ooh Farran, that's a great point. Not sure if it falls in this exact part of sociology, but having someone on the Ologies to talk about the variables that trigger these behaviours... That would be amazing! Big mix of psychology and sociology there I guess. It's a question I've had for a while: what is the boundary between social non-compliance and simple defence. Simple example: in poor countries people will buy cheap hardware that enables them to decode satellite TV, so they can have access to channels which they would never have otherwise. Are they criminals, or is that a kind of social defense for the inequalities? Counterfeit high street brands are another example. For the disabled benefits, doing that takes the resource away from people that really need it though, so it seems to be different.

Kleb

Great question Ellie!

Kleb

Emily, thanks for your input. Would you mind elaborating on the the reasons behind it, please? (Seriously, trying to understand what's wrong with this according to your view)

Terena

I’d love to hear a discussion about People First language vs Disability First language. I’m a teacher and mother of a woman who is disabled. I was taught that we (teachers and therapists) should use “Person with a Disability” but I hear from the Disabled community that we should use “Disabled Person.” Disability is an identity, like Queer or Asian. You wouldn’t say “Person who is Queer.” But when I use “Disabled Person” I get pushback from my education peers and my supervisors. Can you talk about this conflict? I’m also a mom of a disabled person and want to be respectful (she doesn’t care about this conflict at all!).

Hana Rupnow

People with disabilities and consent. How do they navigate through informed medical consent but also issues like sexual consent? Any policies protecting people with disabilities regarding consent?

Gemma

how much does underestimation impact the development of disabled children?

Lindsey Burk

FTQA! I'm 30yo, diagnosed with ADHD at 28 and currently on a 2ish year waitlist for an ASD assessment (thank you, Canadian socialized medicine). I've seen a lot of people in recent years blaming confirmation bias ("the algorithm") from social media posts for a perceived surge in people self-identifying with or seeking diagnosis for neuro-developmental disorders such as ADHD and ASD. Thoughts on covid's role in folks seeking new diagnoses, i.e. due to isolation? Would also love to know, do we need to be more intentional by only seeking out credible disability advocates when consuming online content about disabilities? Or is it gatekeeping/ableist to suggest the average person sharing on instagram or tiktok isn't a reliable source for sharing their lived experiences with disabilities and invisible illnesses? Especially when self-diagnosed and maybe not able to access medical care? ***I am not ashamed to say memes helped lead me to seek my ADHD diagnosis!!! I was gaslit for YEARS - by family and society at large - into thinking that the bouncy ball echoing off my skull at 1000 miles an hour was abnormal and a problem and that I needed to catch it and shut that shit down. Turns out I just needed to find a way to harness its energy ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I've also had chronic migraines since I was 15 and finding community on twitter (RIP) of other chronic migraine sufferers was so life-affirming. Would love to hear thoughts on community building when often our disabilities and invisible illnesses are a barrier.

Blitzar Whistle-Stop

Sometimes I wonder if accessibility is possible in what feels like a particularly brutal capitalist society, since disabled people are one of those marginalized groups where it usually costs money to accommodate us. Am I being overly cynical, or is there a conflict of interests there? How can we create a more accessible U.S for the disabled community without a strong pushback from the business community (and policy-makers who value the business community more than they value the disabled)?

Lindsey Burk

FTQA (part two! Can you tell I can't filter my own word vomit?) My aunt was injured in an ATV accident when she was 15 and became quadriplegic. She has been a disability advocate in the Bay Area for decades - she co-founded AXIS, a dance company comprised of disabled and non-disabled dancers that has performed all over the world, was active in quad rugby back in the 80s and 90s, and compiles accessibility information about things like local hiking trails through Access Northern California. She is very involved with BORP, the Bay Area Outreach and Recreation Program - a very cool organization working on adaptive recreation! Would love to hear about more programs like this, especially outside of North America if possible! (And while we're at it - where in the world has the most robust accessibility legislation? The least?) I'm also interested in accessibility in healthcare - I work in a hospital in one of the most multicultural cities in the world and even the most basic of things like effective way-finding signage is pitiful. How can we advocate for others in these kinds of spaces, especially when faced with bureaucratic red tape? Is it possible to make public spaces inclusive for all abilities? For things like signage, how can we effectively communicate things like directions for those who have differences in understanding spatial direction (i.e. can't tell left from right)?

Kleb

Hi Lindsey, there are 2 episodes of Ologies about ADHD that are great! I believe they will help you and also the book from Dr Russell (from the first episode) - Taking Charge of Adult ADHD has helped me a lot :)

Leila Laco

The issue is that the way these benefits are gatekept is already taking resources away from people who need them, which has nothing to do with the minority of fraudulent claims. As a disabled person on benefits, I would much rather everyone who's entitled to them could access them without having to jump through all the hoops, even if that meant fraudulent claims went up.

Leila Laco

Hey Bill, I'm just gonna answer your question as a disabled person because I'd rather not have to hear a list of degrading euphemisms for my identity on my favourite podcast... some of us prefer "person first language" : person with a disability. Others like myself prefer "identity first language" : disabled person. Some use the two interchangeably. In all it's a minority of people who don't want to use the word Disabled or Disability to describe themselves, even if they have a strong preference for one over the other. You may like to take note of who uses the euphemisms you listed, 9/10 times it's a non disabled person trying to be PC but not realising that disabled/disability is not a bad word and many of us are proud of our disabled/disability identity! :)

Kate Halloran

I'd love more disability and neurospicy episodes as a whole - how do we get past the way offices resist accommodating difference in the workplace? My office has basically zero tolerance for small accommodations like colour coding emails so I can prioritise them and I'm not even seeking that as a disability accommodation! Is making it sound like it benefits them really the best we could be doing?

Arvind Bhusnurmath

I work as a teacher in a university and I have difficulty with the lack of awareness when it comes to exam accommodations. Our disability services require students to reach out to them but in several cultures saying that you have a learning disability is considered a sign of weakness. Wondering if there are good ways of navigating this unfairness. Also, Alie, you are one of the best all time pronouncers of my last name.

Naar

how different do you think people’s experiences of their disabilities, specifically neuro ones, would be if we didn’t live under capitalism? I have very bad ADHD which, even though I am very medicated and in coaching for, absolutely ruins my life. I think it would still be a disability either way but under capitalist ideals i can’t breathe. (Thanks Alie<3)

Jasmine Liu

Do they think the focus in a lot of disability advocacy on problematic terms takes away from the work we could be doing on systemic change , making our spaces more accessible, or to prevent people with disabilities being thrown into an institution ? What are their thoughts on disability advocacy being so white? What are statistics on disparities between white folks with disabilities and people of color with disabilities?

Allison Menard

How do you feel about Autism Speaks and their mission of finding a cure?

Allison Menard

I work in a long term care facility, and I constantly have to mediate bullying behavior between residents. Those that are higher functioning (many with mild dementia) discriminate those with severe dementia. I personally feel that this is stemmed from fear. That they’re scared of their own progressing dementia. Would you say that this is an accurate observation?

Jasmine Liu

What about disability rights for LGBTQIA+ communities? I have watched interviews with disabled folks not being believed when they come out. Is this common? What do they think about the insulting movie, Miracle Worker, that gave most of us all our knowledge about the incredible, although flawed, woman that Helen Keller was? Are psychiatric hospitals really better now or will we look back on today the way we look back on the mid-19th century and earlier and think we were monsters? The largest psychiatric hospitals in the US are in our prisons. HOW DO WE CHANGE THAT? What should loved ones/friends/coworkers do when someone is in crisis and black aside from calling the police? Is there anything they can say when they call the police to prevent the person in crisis from being murdered when they get there?

Philip Dunsdon

What tips do you have to help someone who has no hearing in one ear and partial hearing in the other ear to advocate for themselves?

Erin R.

Yes, yes second. I was a para for a few years and something that seemed very common was the underestimation of our students generally, but especially adults. Even after they see what the student was actually capable of.

Ma's Nature Walks

How do you navigate the constant reactions of "I do that, too, so I must have ADHD/Autism/dyslexia/OCD/etc"? And the more blatant denial of invisible disabilities existing in the first place.

Maité Huerta

Could talk about the impact of social media on peoples understanding of neurodivergence? I know a lot of people have said that they decided to try to get diagnosed because they learned about neurodivergence through social media. Many people have also learned about how to respect and now understand disabilities a lot more.

Lindsey Burk

Thanks Kleb - I've listened to every ologies episode! Particularly love the ADHD episodes as well as the one on pain.

fullmetalknee

Can we talk about the additional social expenses and complications that come with being disabled? My insurance company once held my prescription (that they force me to have shipped and won't let me pick up at a pharmacy) until I called them back and tell them verbally if I wanted a credit card through them. The extra time, appointments, phone calls, same work days off even though we have more layers to address, etc. When I get sick, I have to stop my Rheumatoid Arthritis medicine because it delays healing and has made me immunocompromised. That means I'm sick and I have full RA symptoms and I don't know if my immune system will work or if I'll need extra/double medicines. It adds additional layers to navigate. Also, can we please talk about the myth paradigm of "healthy" vs "sick" and about brain fog. I've been dealing with chronic disease and brain fog my whole life, and suddenly when "healthy" people experience it from long covid its suddenly a national conversation and a thing worth researching. I'm glad it has attention, but it's absolutely not a new phenomenon.

fullmetalknee

Yes! And the importance of listening and using someone's preferred identity language (just like names and pronouns). Being "fixed" or "sick" implies that it's not natural variation and that there is a "normal" or "healthy"

fullmetalknee

Also the use of "accessible" instead of handicapped, the importance of ability-first language, and Universal Design principles

Alex Joseph

Can you recommended any leaders or media examples or resources to introduce people to any histories, development, etc of the Deaf community specifically, or disability culture broadly?

Alex Joseph

are there real life examples of what could be considered "accessible societies"?

Toni Spumoni

First time question asker! If the USA had universal healthcare do you think that there would be less ableism in society and/or in medical facilities? How can I (a physically abled person) help push to make my city more accessible for those in wheelchairs or with assistive medical devises?

Sarah Meaden

What progress in disability accessibilities over the last...say...10 years has you the most excited? Are there any you feel are more performative than helpful?

Leila Laco

Genuine question: what is ability-first language? I've tried googling but nothing came up. For context, I use identity first language and call myself a disabled person, but I get that others prefer person-first language ie "person with a disability"

fullmetalknee

The discussions I've been involved with include examples like "handicapped restroom" vs "accessible restroom." I'm not sure how widely that term is used, but the idea is to focus on what someone can do, vs focusing on what they can't do.

fullmetalknee

Maybe ability focused is a better phrasing? I'm not sure where discussions in the community are at with that idea. I was seeking out a lot of engagement until I pulled back to take care of my mental health. It got to be so much since 2022.

Alyssa Simmons

FTQA! I'm a neurotypical mom with a recently diagnosed HFASD 9 yo kiddo and a recently diagnosed 7yo ADHD kiddo (and another kiddo too young for official diagnoses). Shifting my whole paradigm to understand, accommodate and support my kiddos is a journey and one I am truly grateful and privileged to be on. That being said, I'd love some help determining the best way to encourage respectful advocacy for themselves and others for my kids? There are some resources detailing folks on the spectrum who have higher profile lives, which is great, but how can I find more of that and gear it towards neurodiverse kids?

Adam Foote

My fiancee (wife on September 30th!) has a disability and observing how she deals with things has been...fascinating? I'm not sure what the right word is. ANYWAY, question #1: How do I, as a chronically curious person, ask others about their experiences with disability without sounding like a jerk? Like, I genuinely find it interesting why so-and-so is using a wheelchair, but I can't figure out how to ask them about it because so many other people probably ask them all the time and I don't want to be that guy. I'm going to go ask my fiancee what questions/comments she has and probably have a big list of those later!

Marco Santoro

Why is that our societies don't think about making it easier for people with disabilities? Even where the blind, deaf and handicapped still feel like they struggle to get easy things for them done. I have worked with service dogs, learned sign language and always helped thinking of ways to help my handicapped friends. Why is it that it seems they are helped out the minimum where our society is so advanced that we could make their lives so much easier? Why haven't we focused more on healthcare in our society to make it easier for our citizens?

Adam Foote

ALSO: I have a fanciful dream of there being a company or group out there who would make custom accessibility/aid devices for people, because (my observation) people with disabilities rarely need identical solutions. Does an entity like this already exist? Because the alternative seems to be for me to get hyper-rich and make this company myself and that seems...difficult.

Marco Santoro

When I was in school I had a lisp and a stutter and they deemed me to have to go into resource programs. I felt like I fell behind so much in my classes. Even as a substitute teacher the students always feel understaffed and underfunded. Do you feel like it's better in our school systems to help students out to find the right education for them, what is the right education?

Katie Collins

Why does America believe people with disabilities deserve to live in poverty? When going through the SSI / SSDI process doctors determined disability. It is an impossibly hard social protection to get yet we seem to think people on SSI / SSDI deserve to live in poverty. The payment doesn't even cover rent on a one bedroom apartment, there are extreme limitations on the ability to save money, taxations on married people with disability that increase the likelihood of divorce solely to maintain benefits and health care, and absurd restrictions on those attempting to supplement with the amount of work that they are capable of doing. What are the suggestions on reforming our SSI / SSDI system to help those with disabilities have a better quality of life?

Ashley Green

How do you define disability? How to you avoid being ableist?

Tamarys

FTQA! I’ve struggled with invisible illness since I was 19 an I am now 26. Its been extremely difficult to navigate these formative years while dealing with chronic illness and also learning how to advocate for myself and my needs. Sometimes it feels like if I am not actively educating others or speaking about my experiences, I descend further and further into invisibility. While I do like to educate others on my illness, that can get exhausting!! How can I as a disabled person, balance educating/advocating for myself and establishing boundaries so that I don’t become burnt out?

Blitzar Whistle-Stop

I don't mean to single out a particular political stripe, either. There was an article in my local paper years ago - a pretty progressive college town - titled "How state’s bathroom requirements for disabled frustrate Ithaca merchants." in it it said "...Mike Niechwiadowicz, Ithaca’s deputy building commissioner said that he’s forced under state law to make sure Ithaca’s property owners are following the law. “I end up being the bearer of bad news telling the folks that bought these spaces or rented these spaces that they need an accessible bathroom,” he said. Quote from Taco restaurant owner: .,..“I thought it was kind of absurd — it would have cost upwards of $15,000, and the place is only 900 square feet,” Diamond said. “You’re taking off another 50 square feet for another handicapped restroom in addition to the cost.” “It’s unfortunate because Central NY is pretty economically depressed, so you think they’d want do things that would make it easy for businesses,” Diamond said. That's the tension I'm talking about.

Andréa

I’ve heard mixed opinions about using the word “disability” v.s. “neurodivergent” to describe a brain with ADHD/Autism/similar diagnoses. Is there a better one to use overall? In certain contexts?

Kat Gaines

+1! How? It's super weird to look fine to everyone else and feel like shit on the inside but then have to explain that.

Heather Moore

Wait! I am also a Disability Sociologist that works in the field [Disability Service Provider]! It is rare to run into another in the wild *wave* My question has to do with what is your favorite theory or model of disability [medical, holistic, inclusive, etc] and why? When looking at systems that promote ableism [such as higher education] how can individuals who live or work within the system, work to change the system? Signed a very burnt out DSP in higher ed. [edited for voice dictation errors]

Heather Moore

Ohh more questions if you have space - Why is disability ignored compared to other identities [race, religion, etc]? When looking the black power movement, we see the disability rights movement occurring alongside, but when we see the history books, there is little mentioned about the sit-ins, 'Deaf president NOW', or other boycotts that lead to ADA/ADAAA. When folks suddenly become disabled [sudden illness, Concussion, surgery, sudden injury] they have to live life from a new perspective and can lead to a lot of sudden awareness of what being Disabled means. Can you share a bit for those who may suddenly be disabled, or caregivers or folks who are suddenly disabled? There can be a lot of pride and fear around the situation that should not exist. And language - There is a push [probably out of discomfort] from the abled communities where I work to use the terms *differently abled*. If it is in your wheelhouse - could you share why the proudly Disabled community might not take kindly to a professor ignoring their identity?

Heather Moore

This exists!!! If you actually want to get into this, consider researching Bioengineering and get a masters! Normally each group has a special niche they focus on [bionics, visual impairments, textures, etc] and they can work with individuals based on their needs. Alternatively - high school robotics clubs have been a major assist to create affordable wheelchairs.

Don Elliot

This may seem kind of subtle or relatively unimportant, but for those of in the "nose", I have congenital anosmia. Have never had a sense of smell. There are the usual "oh, you can't taste" - no - ref: Ologies a couple of episodes ago. Then, can't smell skunks (yay?), can't smell flowers (boo?), and more stuff that those who can smell don't consider, but is taken for granted, The serious part of this is I can't smell smoke, or gas. Not being able to smell gas would/should be a disabling factor for many jobs where it could be deadly. As you I know you know, having mentioned a friend with anosmia, this is invisible and not on anyone's radar, but limits my ability to do certain jobs safely. I've thought of it as a disability, because I am missing a sense. I know this is long, but you could digest it for the essence of the question.

Leila Laco

Oh, interesting! There's definitely been a shift where I am in the UK to use the word "accessible" instead of "disabled" to describe parking spaces, toilets etc, at least within the disabled community (which makes sense as it's people who are disabled, not the places they go to!) but I've never heard anyone use a specific term to describe that.

Leila Laco

I'm curious if/how the big increase in people with Energy Limiting Chronic Illnesses (Long Covid, ME/CFS, etc) since the pandemic started has affected how academics in the field approach the different models of disability. Has this sped up the shift away from the social model towards more holistic/inclusive models of disability that take into account how for some of us the symptoms themselves would still be limiting even in a fully accessible and inclusive society?

Leila Laco

Surname is pronounced lack-oh (not lake-oh)! (I'm much less bothered by the surname tho, technically it's Spanish so should really be pronounced the way a Spanish-speaker would say taco, but with an L instead of a T - but I don't expect non Spanish -speakers to do that :) )

Neal Sorensen

Is there a sociological reason to use Person-First or Identity-First language? Everyone seems to be sold on person-first for disability, but use identity-first for race, gender, etc. I call myself Dyslexic, but I professionally I have to use person-first language.

Mangomoosh

I just started as a construction inspector and I have had my eyes opened by our ADA coordinator and I have changed the way I look at things. I see the built environment so differently after one day with him. What is it that makes it so hard for people to see the benefits of accessibility. Can we also get some info on the word handicapped and why some don’t want to use the term. Also how do we counter the fact that when we make accessible areas and spots and places like accessible concert seats, how do we avoid othering the people we are trying to help. Thank you!!!

Emmett

How do you appropriately ask about someone’s access needs?

Bálint Novák

I came here to ask a very similar thing, but on a more basic level! I would love a quick rundown of person-first and identity-first language: when and why people prefer using each of these?

Patricia Evans

I'm really interested in your guest's thoughts about "invisible" disabilities - things like chronic fatigue, dyslexia, migraines, hearing loss, and others that aren't as immediately visible as (e.g.) using a mobility aid. As someone with one of these challenges and a friend of people with others, I find we often aren't taken as seriously and our need for accommodation is dismissed as less important than physical disability.

Bálint Novák

I hear there's a lot of controversy around CRISPR technology and human genetic engineering. I specifically mean the debate around the idea of "eradicating" certain heritable diseases. Some say it would be great, others claim that this desire stems from the ideology of eugenics and would wipe out valuable diversity and devalue disabled minority groups and their contribution to society. I would love to hear an expert's opinion on this topic because I feel that this is a very important one and I'm just generally confused about it.

Sriya Karra

How do you see the representation of disability in media and popular culture influencing public perceptions and attitudes towards disability? Thanks!! -Sriya (Sree-yuh)

Katrina MacWhirter

TLDR: What would you most recommend someone who has a diagnosis that will lead to complete disability do, right now, to prepare? And how does someone prepare for a future of poverty-level payments, live a life worth living, and still work the fulltime job they need to survive and pay for medications, when the last thing is all their illness leaves them with the strength for?... And why is universal income the solution? .... I am currently navigating a disability that reached critical mass five years ago, and finally found a diagnosis 19 months ago. (MCAS) Medications and avoiding an increasing list of triggers help, allowed me to return to work for now, but the truth is, I've already had to escalate the meds I'm using, I have had my life shrunk down to a very short list of what I can safely do, and my specialist (immunologist/allergist) confirms this will only get worse. I would like to know what you would most recommend someone who already has a diagnosis do to prepare for the future? (Note: I live in Canada, so I know I'm luckier than most. But even here, disability payments are well below the poverty line, and I will never forgot what I went through, 20 months ago, before a specialist would change everything. Existing in active pain, brain fogged, slowly filling out the baffling forms, and trying to process how my whole life had become me in a borrowed bubble of purified air, burdening loved ones... And why is univeral income the solution?) Also, why does being currently *able* to work a fulltime job mean that I absolutely must do that to survive and pay for medications, when 95% of the time that job has used up every mental spoon and physical resource I have within this illness, with nothing left to support actually connecting with loved ones, much less to pursue my dreams and passions with... and why is universal income the solution? Also, also.. Is universal income the solution?

Molly

Hello! Going to try not to overthink my first question in this lovely space (THANK YOU, by the way. I love your podcast and this super curious and goofy and wonderful virtual community you've created.) and start with: what countries (or cities?) do a good job of supporting folks with disabilities? And what are the policies or programs that they've implemented that make this true?

Ted Vician

Look at the other perspective: the state’s telling that restaurant owner that he has to spend $15k and give up 5% of his floor space for a very small number of potential customers. At the thin margins many restaurants operate at, that owner probably has to sell $500k in tacos to break even on that $15k expense. How many months of profits is that?

Kristina Kunze

Many many many people I know how invisible disabilities and have struggled with getting any sort of government assistance when that keeps them from being able to work full time. The process of very long and you have to basically prove there is no way in hell you can work. With invisible disabilities they face a lot more challenges with that. What could be done differently systematically to help people not have to live in poverty because of a system lacking to help them the way they need. Same question for insurance, children needing to crowdfund a wheelchair is such a sad reality for the US. How do insurance companies decide who and who doesn’t get the equipment they need?

Blitzar Whistle-Stop

That's the question I was getting at. Who should shoulder the burden? The business community, the disabled, or someone else? The government? Handicap bathrooms are an easy one because it's the law already, but what about something else? Where I live, ground level apartments are more expensive than second and third floor apartments because there's a higher demand for them. Are we, as a country, okay with that? That's my question: Does capitalism clash with accessibility?

Isabelle Newman

For disabilities that involve chronic pain which leads do fatigue, what are some of the best ways to combat this? Don’t want to just load up on caffeine to stay awake, so are there any recommendations for increasing energy and alertness ?

Katy dement

I an the Lead Teaching Artist With a Small Non Profit that provides Art Classes Citizens with developemental, cognativeand physical disabilities and autisum. These artist are amazing and have consistanstantly unique styles of art making. Question #1 are they actually seeing thhings as they draw them or is this some sort of hand eye brain translation?

Katy dement

and #2 as some one who struggles with all sorts of small disabeling things( like discalcula and deslexia, I spellchecked this like 3 times) does anyone else out there feel that tecnology is tourtureing, Not accessable!, us with pins and passcodes that you have only a few monents to get right, and Timed on line forms(, my personal hell, or o would have writen sooner- i just tried tyo order an oligies t shirt but couldn't.

Stephanie Schmid-Falcon

I’d also love to hear about this one. I’ve had rheumatoid arthritis for most of my life. I grew up with a parent who used mobility aids and always felt a sense of shame about using them. A couple of years ago following a knee surgery my doctor said I HAD to use a cane and I was so mad about it. This year I’m working through the diagnostic process for Chiari malformation (and being evaluated for EDS), and between my incompetent immune system, my janky spine, and my mullet brain, I’d really like to use a cane some days but I overthink it and don’t.

Stephanie Schmid-Falcon

What’s the best way to get workplace accommodations (in my case occasional use of a mobility aid) when you’ve got a contract or job description that includes things like “lifting up to 50 pounds” and your organization prioritizes making sure they don’t get sued if you’re injured on the job? (I’m a teacher and would probably benefit from a cane some days. My immediate supervisor is fantastic but if suits from the district are visiting and see it, it’ll turn into a ✨thing✨).

Greg Walloch

Can they explain the concept of "reasonable accommodation" especially regarding accessibility in living and work environments.

Carolyn Viscosi Shirley

Hello! I'm a geologist and marine scientist, also a manual wheelchair user for just over a decade. Using a wheelchair I find that all the normal rules of social interaction are gone. Strangers constantly interact with me. People ask questions or talk with me about all kinds of personal stuff you would not normally bring up with someone you don't know. People try to touch me or my chair, even move me. As a quiet introvert it's quite an experience and not all bad as it's helping me to connect with, appreciate and understand people more. That being said, I think there is a lot of discomfort and fear for able bodied people interacting with handicapped people. I tend to categorize people into three groups (science brain can't help looking at these interactions with strangers as data). There are 1) people who are so uncomfortable w/ the chair they can't even look at or acknowledge you 2) people for whom the chair is like a pair of eye glasses; they see it but interact with YOU, letting chair fall into the background as a functional accessory and 3) people who interact with you but make it primarily about the chair - this one is the biggest group! Most people are nervous and react by being overly helpful or sympathetic. It is hard to talk about this issue because it makes me seem unappreciative. Yet I feel very sure that this behavior is driven by folks being anxious about how to act/what to do. The most important thing you can do is slow down, breathe, look the person in the eye and interact with them not the chair.

Carolyn Viscosi Shirley

Also want to say welcome back, thank you! and keep taking care of yourself:)

Jeanette-o-saur

Ok, referencing another podcast - hope that's kosher. I just listened to the Radiolab episode The Right Stuff about NASA's first steps towards opening astronaut-dom to disabled people and it got me thinking about how many activities/jobs/etc we exclude disabled people from by default. Just assume they can't, end of story. I work in mining, which is completely ableist re: physical limitations. Mine sites have wheelchair accessible bathrooms because of legislation, but there's no way someone in a wheelchair could actually navigate around site, even if they didn't need to go into the actual mine. Lots of stairs, no elevators, uneven terrain etc. Where are we seeing serious workplace (or recreation) accessibility progress and how is it done? How do we push back against the idea that it's 'not worth the cost/effort' to make traditionally ableist spaces accessible?

Carolyn Viscosi Shirley

Personally, I think having a disability gives a new, different perspective on the world that can inspire amazing art, science, social work, etc. Necessity is the mother of invention and having a limitation can drive people to find away through or around or to tap into something unexpected. A few disabled people who've done cool stuff include Hawking, Einstein, Alexander Bell, Stevie Wonder, Michael J Fox, Andrea Bocelli, Frida Kahlo, Harriet Tubman, Maya Angelou, Piotr Iwanicki (I love!! he and Marissa Hamamoto dancing to Gravity), Thomas Edison, Fannie Lou Hamer....

Natalie Welborn

Is the world getting kinder to people with disabilities or has it really changed that much? Also do people have more success being open about their disability than when they hide it? (Neurodivergent)

Jeanne

Correction to the aside about long COVID: over 65s is not the most common demographic, it’s typically 30-60 year olds. Data indicating that over 65s are more affected are likely referring to complications resulting from a severe case of COVID, but that isn’t long COVID. Post-ICU recovery is often lumped in with long COVID, but they aren’t the same thing.