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

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

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

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

In this episode of Changing Minds, Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliesowash/]sits down with Travis Davis, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/travismdavis/] a speaker, entrepreneur, and disability advocate living with cerebral palsy. Travis shares his journey of advocating for disabilities, from his college days to becoming a TEDx speaker and host of the podcast *Off the Crutch*. Travis discusses the motivation behind his brand, which aims to help others overcome their mental "crutches," and his involvement with the Rush Bowls franchise, designed to create job opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Join us for this inspiring conversation that highlights the importance of inclusivity and self-advocacy. Tune in to be empowered and informed! Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies. Notes: Travis Davis is a two-time TEDx speaker and communications consultant who helps mission-driven teams create inclusive and accessible communication strategies. With a background in education, marketing, and ADA coordination, his perspective is influenced by his experience with cerebral palsy. Travis focuses on fostering human-centered environments where everyone can thrive and has helped launch businesses that employ individuals with disabilities, served on workforce development panels, and led disability awareness training. TEDx Talks: - Incluse Me: Social Inclusion in Education | Travis Davis | TEDxABQED [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVRchyurs1g] - How My Crutch Became My Strength | Travis Davis | TEDxSouth Congress [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3ENS9arTJo]

What does it mean to be seen, but not truly heard? When the color of your skin speaks louder than your voice, and your neurodivergence is misread as defiance, disinterest, or something to be corrected? In this powerful episode, guest host Grant Harris [https://www.linkedin.com/in/grantharris555/] sits down with two thought-provoking guests whose lives and work sit at the intersection of race, disability, and identity. Ian Gibbs-Hall [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-gibbs-hall/] is the creator of Curiosity Architecture and the founder of Sonder [https://www.whatifblueprint.com/], a social enterprise that rehumanizes how we see ourselves and the systems we live in. His work blends systems thinking, empathy, and spiritual insight to challenge how institutions define value and behavior. Ian explores how metrics, language, and culture often obscure neurodivergent brilliance—and how reimagining these structures starts with the questions we ask. Natasha Grant Holmberg [https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-grant018/] offers both a personal and generational lens, grounded in her lived experience as a neurodivergent professional with ADHD. As the Director of Employment & Workforce Development at First Place AZ [https://firstplaceaz.org/] and creator of Be Open + Be Ready℠, she leads inclusive employment initiatives that focus on readiness training and educating employers on neuro-inclusive hiring practices. Natasha's work fosters environments where difference is embraced, not erased. Her story isn't just one of survival—it's about reclaiming her voice and creating space for others to be heard sooner, more clearly, and more fully. Together, these voices shed light on what it means to be perpetually interpreted, often misunderstood, and rarely embraced in full. But more importantly, they reveal what's possible when systems make room for difference, not just to exist, but to lead. Changing Minds & Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

In this compelling episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash [https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliesowash/] sits down with disability advocate, policy leader, and employment innovator David Rice [https://www.linkedin.com/in/disabilitybydavid/] for a conversation that spans personal resilience, systemic change, and the future of disability inclusion. David shares his powerful journey from being the only Deaf student in his community to leading transformational work at the National Institutes of Health and advising organizations through the CEO Commission on Disability Employment [https://ceocommission.org/]. Together, Julie and David explore the intersection of disability and healthcare, workplace accessibility, and what it truly takes to build inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. David also offers practical advice for employers, including how to support employees with disabilities, the business case for accessibility, and why believing in people with disabilities can make a significant difference. As they discuss, designing inclusive workplaces for people with disabilities doesn't just benefit those individuals—it improves experiences, access, and innovation for everyone. Notes: David Rice is a dedicated leader and advocate in the field of disability rights, with over 15 years of experience advancing accessibility, inclusion, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Deaf since the age of four, David's advocacy is both personal and professional, grounded in a lifelong commitment to creating equitable environments. David served as President of Deaf in Government (2014–2018), where he worked to remove communication barriers, support career development, and champion the rights of Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing federal employees. Throughout his career, he has led initiatives to create accessible training programs, launch employee resource groups, and embed disability inclusion into organizational culture. Known for his strategic leadership and collaborative approach, David continues to shape more inclusive workplaces, benefiting not only individuals with disabilities but also entire organizations.  A big thanks to Brianna McCormack, the episode's ASL interpreter. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a nonprofit consulting firm and job board that partners with global brands to drive inclusive hiring and disability-inclusive talent strategies.

Holly O'Hern returns to Changing Minds & Changing Lives for a candid and compassionate conversation with host Julie Sowash about grief in the workplace. Together, they explore the many forms grief can take—from losing a loved one to the quiet mourning of fading DEI commitments. Holly offers thoughtful guidance on how to show up for colleagues who are grieving and why creating space for grief at work is essential for truly inclusive cultures. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, coworkers, and anyone seeking to incorporate empathy into their daily work. Notes: Holly O'Hern [https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-ohern/] brings 20+ years of experience in leadership development, DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, & belonging), learning and development, team building, and inclusive events and workshops. Specializing in both virtual and in-person training formats, her career has spanned the restaurant industry, the aviation industry, non-profit volunteer leadership, tech, and startups — and her work is informed by her completion of immersive programs on racial equity, trauma-informed workplaces, intentional gathering, collegiate-level DEI certification, and Dr. Brené Brown's Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator program. Holly believes in supporting and amplifying the voices of people from historically excluded communities and in the importance of all types of people taking responsibility for societal healing. She has been deeply involved in ERG/BRGs, including a talent role that was focused on intersectionality, sponsorship, and corporate oversight and management. She serves in an exec-level role on the Board of Directors for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, an organization from which she's learned about racial equity and the systemic impact of advocacy - and was formerly the President of its Associate Board. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

RFK Jr.'s recent comments about autism have drawn stark criticism from the autism community. He inaccurately claimed autistic individuals "will never pay taxes, hold a job, or write a poem..." This week's guest, autism advocate and college junior, Kadin McElwain [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadin-ronald-mcelwain-015031297/], is proving RFK Jr. wrong on every front. Julie and Kadin discuss politics and government policy, including cuts to the Department of Education and Health and Human Services. They also dive into the influence of conspiracy theories on public perception of autism.  Notes: Kadin is an autistic college student, writer, and activist on a mission to raise as much awareness about autism as possible. Throughout his life, his capabilities were questioned due to the social stigmas surrounding autism. But thanks to a supportive set of parents, he proved the naysayers wrong. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLA6sLh3PIrDL9O47vYnAxxXqcxK7LIidX

Julie sits down with Senior Director of Global Talent Acquisitions, Ron Fish, to explore his approach to fostering inclusive hiring practices within his organization. Ron shares his vision for building a diverse workforce and highlights the strategies and initiatives being implemented to create an equitable hiring process. Discover how this talent acquisition leader is promoting and supporting inclusive hiring in a global organization. Notes: Ron Fish [https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronfish/] is a Global Talent Acquisition Leader and advocate for people with disabilities. He promotes inclusion and accessibility initiatives within a global software company and the business community. Inspired by family members who have overcome challenges, he is dedicated to creating a welcoming culture. Ron speaks at conferences to raise awareness for the disability community and has received the Golden Key Award from the Governor's Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities. He is also a finalist for the HR Standout Award at the Carolina HR Summit.

In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, Grant Harris opens up to Julie about his late-life autism diagnosis, sharing his journey of understanding and accepting his neurodistinct behaviors. He discusses the impact of his diagnosis on both his personal life and professional endeavors, particularly through his consulting firm, GTH Consulting. The conversation also explores the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace and how fostering an inclusive environment can benefit organizations. Grant's candid insights offer valuable perspectives on embracing differences and the challenges and rewards that come with neurodiversity.

Julie meets with Dr. Lucy Reynolds, the Managing Director of We Are All Disabled, to discuss the Affirmative Model of Disability. Dr. Lucy shares her efforts to change societal perceptions of disability through her PhD research and personal experiences. She also shares some exciting personal news contributing to her community and mission.

Julie talks with Holly O'Hern of Regime Change [https://www.regimechange.co/home] (a corporate learning and development company) about courageous leadership, creating safe spaces, trauma-informed workplaces, recent DEI backlash, and more. Notes: Holly O'Hern [https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-ohern/] brings 20+ years of experience in leadership development, DEI (diversity equity inclusion), learning and development, team building, and inclusive events and workshops. Specializing in both virtual and in-person training formats, her career has spanned the restaurant industry, the aviation industry, non-profit volunteer leadership, tech, and startups — and her work is informed by her completion of immersive programs on racial equity, trauma-informed workplaces, intentional gathering, collegiate-level DEI certification, and Dr. Brené Brown's Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator program. Holly believes in supporting and amplifying the voices of people from historically excluded communities and in the importance of all types of people taking responsibility for societal healing. She has been deeply involved in ERG/BRGs, including a talent role that was focused on intersectionality, sponsorship, and corporate oversight and management. She serves in an exec-level role on the Board of Directors for the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, an organization from which she's learned about racial equity and the systemic impact of advocacy - and was formerly the President of its Associate Board. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Julie sits down with Hollywood talent manager, Elle Potruch to break down what goes into managing and advocating for talent with disabilities in the current entertainment industry landscape. Notes: Elle Potruch [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elle-potruch/] is a talent manager representing deaf and disabled talent in the digital and traditional entertainment industries. She independently manages a roster of creators, actors, public speakers, and consultants. Elle is also a member of the Disabled community and a passionate advocate for increasing disability inclusion and changing the way people think about and define disability in the entertainment industry. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Disability Inclusion Consultant and Public Speaker Calum Grevers shares his personal experiences navigating the social housing systems and accessibility barriers in Scotland throughout his quest to live independently as a person with a disability and a full-time wheelchair user. Notes: Calum Grevers [https://www.linkedin.com/in/calumgrevers/] is a freelance Disability Inclusion Consultant, public speaker, policy researcher, and disability campaigner. Calum's goal is to raise awareness of the societal barriers disabled people face. Throughout his viral campaign #HelpCalMoveOut, he has shared his personal journey, struggles, and achievements navigating the social housing system, meeting with government leaders, and campaigning for actionable changes for others with disabilities. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Julie sits down with Kole Petersen, a writer for The Catalyst, an independent student newspaper of Colorado College, to discuss his three-part expose' on the Disability Equality Index (DEI). Kole explains why he believes the DEI corporate rankings are misleading and damaging for the disability community. Notes: Kole Petersen is a psychology major, journalist, and student-athlete at Colorado College. Read his three-part series discussing the problems associated with and caused by the Disability Equality Index: The Disability Equality Index: A Mirage of Hope [https://thecatalystnews.com/2024/03/28/the-disability-equality-index-a-mirage-of-hope/], The Disability Equality Index: The Incalculable Harm of Incompleteness [https://thecatalystnews.com/2024/04/04/the-disability-equality-index-the-incalculable-harm-of-incompleteness/], and The Disability Equality Index: A Measure of "Trust" Causing Distrust [https://thecatalystnews.com/2024/04/11/the-disability-equality-index-a-measure-of-trust-causing-distrust/]. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

In this episode, Julie has a conversation with Kara Richardson Whitely, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-richardson-whitely/] who is the CEO of The Gorgeous Agency [https://www.linkedin.com/company/thegorgeousagency/]. They talk about the importance of body diversity and inclusion in the corporate world and how corporations can have a significant impact on promoting inclusion in the workplace. Kara shares her personal journey and discusses her book, "Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro at 300 Pounds." She talks about the challenges she faced while striving for body-acceptance and changing the narrative around body-inclusion. Tune in to listen to the whole conversation! Notes: Kara Richardson Whitely is the CEO of The Gorgeous Agency [https://thegorgeousagency.com/]. She's also a plus-size adventurer and advisor and author of "Gorge: My Journey Up Kilimanjaro at 300 Pounds [https://www.amazon.com/Gorge-Journey-Kilimanjaro-300-Pounds/dp/1580055591]," which is being made into a movie produced by Chrissy Metz, the actress from "This Is Us." Kara's goal is to promote diversity and inclusion and build positive brand sentiment in the plus-sized and big and tall community. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm and leader for global brands in talent acquisition and inclusion for people with disabilities.

Frantz Berthaud, healthcare leader, sat down with Julie to discuss equity in healthcare and the significance of diverse representation in clinical trials. They both share their views on the future of AI in the healthcare industry and the importance of programming machine-learning systems to include diverse groups. Notes: Frantz M. Berthaud, MPH, FACHE [https://www.linkedin.com/in/frantzmberthaud/], is a board-certified healthcare strategy and operations leader with over 15 years of experience. He is also the Market Director of Oncology for a health system in West Texas. He is an adjunct professor and a passionate innovator at the intersection of oncology and equity. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm helping forward-thinking employers create world-class hiring and retention programs for people with disabilities.

Wesley shares his personal journey of overcoming lifestyle changes and health struggles after his injury. He describes how these experiences helped him uncover his true passion and pave a path forward to a successful business. Wesley also discusses his work with major companies, promoting accountability for accessibility and inclusion efforts. Wesley Hamilton [https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamweshamilton/] is the CEO of the Disabled But Not Really Foundation [https://wesleyhamilton.life/dbnr/], an organization on a mission to help people living with disability build independence through health, fitness, and community. He is a global public speaker [https://wesleyhamilton.life/public-speaking/] and social entrepreneur who champions disability and diversity rights. Changing Minds and Changing Lives is produced by Disability Solutions [https://www.disabilitytalent.org/], a non-profit consulting firm helping forward-thinking employers create world-class hiring and retention programs for people with disabilities.

Julie and Jamie have a conversation about the current state of disability employment in both the UK and in the US. They discuss how government policies and shortcomings are affecting the global disability community and delve into what employers can do to be genuinely impactful in disability inclusion.