In our season finale, Sarah Gabriel reflects on the journey so far—sharing highlights of changemakers, lessons from inter-ability businesses, and a vision for a “complete workforce” where people of all abilities are not just included, but essential.
5 Key Takeaways:
Start where you are
Do it with excellence
There is joy in this work
Be generous
Proof of concept
Links:
IGC Podcast Audience Survey: https://forms.gle/BGZwBrPJCup8FTKg9
IGC's website: www.igcwithus.com
IGC passport: www.igcwithus.com/passport
IGC's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus/
Leaf by Niggle, by J.R.R. Tolkien: https://www.amazon.com/Leaf-Niggle-J-R-Tolkien/dp/0008205531
Meet Gabi and Mary Angelini, the unstoppable mother-daughter duo behind Gabi’s Grounds and Gabi’s PALS. In this episode, you’ll hear about their surprising pivot during the pandemic, the team’s superpowers (spoiler: speedy Justin, organized Lauren, and Gabi’s own adorableness), and how visibility, joy, and hard work are changing minds—and the workforce. From TEDx talks to the Ghostly Gala and dreams of national expansion, Gabi and Mary are building more than a business. They’re building a movement.
Key Take Aways:
“No” can be the start of something better.
Hidden superpowers thrive in plain-sight roles.
“Too slow” was a myth—they proved it wrong.
Links:
IGC Podcast Audience Survey: https://forms.gle/BGZwBrPJCup8FTKg9
IGC's website: www.igcwithus.com
IGC passport: www.igcwithus.com/passport
IGC's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus/
Powered by Gabi’s: https://poweredbygabis.org/
Gabi’s Ghostly Gala: https://semirosas.swoogo.com/gabis
TEDx North Carolina: https://www.ted.com/tedx/events/60655
Gabi on the Kelly Clarkson Show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNG57sp90lg
Shoutouts:
John’s Crazy Socks: https://johnscrazysocks.com/
Awaken Coffee: https://awakencoffeenc.com/
Esteamed Coffee: https://www.esteamedcoffee.com/
Moji Coffee: https://www.facebook.com/mojicoffeeandmore/
Spectrum Designs: https://www.spectrumdesigns.org/
Join us as Kate Wilson, our summer intern and a rising star at Oglethorpe University, shares her journey with Stargardt's disease. Discover how she navigates the workplace, advocates for accessibility, and brings unique perspectives to her team. Kate's insights on disability and perspective are both insightful and inspiring. Don't miss this engaging conversation! Watch on Spotify or YouTube for the full experience.
Key Take Aways:
Regularly follow up on accommodations to ensure they are effective and make adjustments as needed.
Remember many tasks can be accomplished in a number of ways. For example, a simple software swap could enable someone with a visual impairment to do the job.
Blindness doesn't have a single look; it's a spectrum.
Links:
Shoutouts:
Ansley Miner, Manager in Development at the Shepherd Hotel in Clemson, South Carolina, shares how her love for the disability community led to a career in hospitality leadership. In this episode, Ansley explains how her team uses tools like weekly “superpower cards” to keep employees growing, why systems must adapt to individuals—not the other way around—and how leadership rooted in empathy drives real results.
Key Take Aways:
Training never stops—every shift is an opportunity to grow.
Create routines that promote ownership and measurable results.
Inter-ability teams bring authenticity and warmth to service.
Links:
IGC's website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus/
Shepherd Hotel website: https://www.shepherdhotels.com/
Shepherd Hotel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shepherdhotels/
Shoutouts:
Clemson LIFE: https://www.clemson.edu/education/programs/programs/culife/
Karah Lindsay joins the show to kick off a special sub-series on disability awareness, starting with a conversation about cerebral palsy and the workplace. With warmth, humor, and clarity, Karah shares about her lived experience with Cerebral Palsy, how it impacts her work and life. From flexible shifts to seating to assuming competence, Karah offers practical advice that’s as useful as it is eye-opening. Also: she’ll show you how she ties her shoes! For video, be sure to watch on Spotify or Youtube!
Key Take Aways:
Assume competence.
Cerebral Palsy, like many things, is a spectrum.
Seating, work spaces, and shift timing can all be simple accommodations.
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus/
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Connect with Karah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karah-lindsey-176b6a1a0/
Jeni Smith, founder of SliceAbility Pizza in Cumming, Georgia, shares how her background in hospitality and special education led her to launch a pizzeria with a purpose. SliceAbility meaningfully employs adults with disabilities using clear, structured systems—like color-coded aprons that reflect team members’ progress in the training cycle. From food safety to customer service, team members build real job skills in a supportive environment while delivering an excellent guest experience.
Key Take Aways:
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus/
—
SliceAbility website: https://sliceability.com/
SliceAbility Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sliceability/
LaunchAbility Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572518642885
Shoutouts:
Marie’s Italian Deli: https://www.mariesitaliandeli.com/
Extra Special People (ESP): https://espyouandme.org/
We’ll be sprinkling in some bonus episodes spotlighting stellar managers doing good work on the ground. In this conversation, Heather Sudduth, Housekeeping Manager at Shepherd Hotel, shares how she trains and supports a team where 40% of their team members have intellectual or developmental disabilities. From rotating mentorships to positive reinforcement, and stories of role-matching success, Heather offers a practical look at what an inter-ability, high-performing hospitality team really looks like.
Key Take Aways:
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Shepherd Hotel website: https://www.shepherdhotels.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21259138732&gclid=CjwKCAjw1dLDBhBoEiwAQNRiQZmjwcKlxbWVy0rDm5z4kZuhPsPw03m_M-i1r9avBgvrHz1V4fG7UBoCYeAQAvD_BwE
Shepherd Hotel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shepherdhotels?igsh=eHYwd3J4M29wYnB1
Shoutouts:
ClemsonLIFE: https://www.clemson.edu/education/programs/programs/culife/
Pam Kattouf and Pat Miller, co-founders of Beloved Bath, share how their New Jersey-based company blends artisan bath products with a mission to employ individuals with autism, particularly those on the severe end of the spectrum. We discussed a range of topics from matching talent to task to community advocacy. Pam and Pat offer a powerful model for social enterprise in action.
Use code Goodco to get 20% off your next Beloved Bath order! Contact Pat directly for corporate orders (pat@belovedbath.com).
Key Take Aways:
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Beloved Bath website: https://belovedbath.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq9RZJz910XdChO3WjidvK-0-VwK7SNtCy74-uEwarnZJ-MHXt5
For corporate gift orders, email Pat: pat@belovedbath.com
Beloved Bath Charitable Foundation: https://belovedbath.com/pages/beloved-bath-charitable-foundation
Be Bold Consultants: https://beboldconsultants.com/
Beloved Bath Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belovedbath?igsh=MTl5Z24ydWkybzkwcg==
Shoutouts:
DollyMoo bath products: https://www.dollymoo.com/
Shopify: https://www.shopify.com/
Carson's Cookie Dough website: https://www.carsonscookiedough.com/
Rising Tide Car Wash: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/
Jacob Blaeser, President of Ventures ATL, explains how their nonprofit directly employs adults with autism to deliver high-precision data management and product fulfillment services. This episode dives into their scalable model, the unique advantages of a neurodiverse team, and how Ventures ATL blends social impact with business discipline.
Special Offer:
Ventures ATL is offering a 10% discount on any project for new clients who mention In Good Company. Additionally, if you refer a business that becomes a client, you’ll receive a $1,000 referral bonus.
Key Take Aways:
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Ventures ATL website: https://www.venturesatl.com/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwLPztdleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp3ZM5yVkkk7GYj3uUiKKlTtPJVM2mK_-rGCoXO3lyrX7iMR7KdFw9X4Hh2ms_aem_6BIu-N4-Q_8mBuaz0rAF_A
Ventures ATL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venturesatl?igsh=cnFkMzVncWUwd2M=
Ventures ATL’s Podcast: On YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xidTeYBXWIs on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ACBs13pdUe2zr4sCvwoAN
Shoutouts:
Rising Tide Car Wash website: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/
Wonderfully Made: https://order.toasttab.com/online/wonderfully-made
Tom D’Eri, co-founder of Rising Tide Car Wash and author of The Power of Potential, shares how his team built a high-performing business employing individuals with autism—achieving just 20% turnover in an industry where 120% is the norm. He discusses how process design, workforce systems, and inclusive hiring practices drive both operational efficiency and social impact. This episode offers practical insights for leaders looking to reduce turnover, improve performance, and build inclusive companies that scale.
Key Take Aways:
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Tom’s book, The Power of Potential: https://www.harpercollinsleadership.com/9781400228904/the-power-of-potential/
Rising Tide Car Wash Website: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/
Rising Tide U website: https://risingtideu.com/
Rising Tide Car Wash Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risingtidecarwash?igsh=Ymw5eHVna2h6YzAz
Shoutouts:
Ultranauts website: https://ultranauts.co/
Valerie Herskowitz, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spectrum, talks about the milestones and challenges of social entrepreneurship, the importance of community education, and what it takes to run a socially responsible business without compromising quality or impact.
Use code IGC10 to get 10% off your next Chocolate Spectrum order!
Key Take Aways:
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How to reach Valerie Herskowitz:
Valerie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thechocolatespectrum/
Valerie’s Email: valerie@thechocolatespectrum.com
Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq%0A%0A
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The Chocolate Spectrum website: https://thechocolatespectrum.com/
The Chocolate Spectrum Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechocspectrum?igsh=MWVicWttc3h3eWE5OQ==
Shoutouts:
SCORE: https://www.score.org/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22259574879&gbraid=0AAAAApEg_JsO2lrLhTak6EPrLlxG1ryr4&gclid=CjwKCAjwx8nCBhAwEiwA_z__04q84as7HVHR3owtqGJ9EbMKVZZ2pyZ5f9TIoSjTOOuTMCpXzXEQ6RoCAA0QAvD_BwE
Rising Tide Car Wash: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/
Rising Tide U: risingtidu.com
Jody Tick, Executive Director of Sunflower Bakery, talks about the importance of learner-centered training, strong employer partnerships, and building a continuum of support that helps graduates succeed. From tackling workplace myths to diversifying revenue, Jody offers practical insight into what it takes to build a stronger workforce.
PROMO: If you're listening before the end of July 2025 and you're in Maryland, Sunflower is offering a special discounted menu for federal workers and contractors affected by job loss.
Key Take Aways:
- Training includes both technical and soft skills
- Education is key to dispelling myths and bias around disability
- Revenue diversity keeps the mission strong
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Sunflower Bakery website: https://www.sunflowerbakery.org
Sunflower Bakery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunflower.bakery/
Shout Out:
Main Street Connect: https://mainstreetconnect.org/
Andy Davenport, founder of Crispy King Treats, shares how he’s building a for-profit bakery with a social mission: to lower the disability unemployment rate by 1%. In this episode, he dives into the realities of running a purpose-driven business, the power of community, and how the workforce can transform when we recognize the unique strengths people with disabilities bring to the table.
Key Take Aways:
- Engaging customers around your “why” builds brand loyalty.
- If you’re waiting for the perfect moment to start, start now.
- Assume competence—everyone has potential when given a chance.
How to reach Andy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-davenport-9b9139a7/
Email: crispykingtreats@gmail.com
Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Crispy King Treats website: https://www.crispykingtreats.com/
Crispy King Treats Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crispykingtreats/
Cakes & Conversations show on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@crispykingshow?si=gSZNAXg7FZLoaYYy
Shoutouts:
Young Life Capernaum: https://capernaum.younglife.org/
Mend Coffee and Goods: https://www.mendcoffee.com/
Brightside Cafe: https://brightsidecafebuford.com/
Happy Brew: https://www.happybrew.org/
Belong Kitchen: https://www.belongkitchenhtx.org/
Howdy Homemade: https://howdyhomemade.com/
Ed Lynch, founder of Mychal’s Learning Place, shares how he built a network of social enterprises—including a bakery, café, and print shop—to tackle the 85% unemployment rate among people with developmental disabilities through job training, paid employment, and community integration.
Key Take Aways:
How to reach Ed Lynch:
Ed’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-lynch-0a6b2416/
Ed’s Email: ed@mychals.org
Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Mychal’s Social Enterprises website: https://www.mychals.org/our-programs/social-enterprises/
Mychal’s Learning Place Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mychalslearningplace/
Shoutouts:
My Possibilities website: https://www.mypossibilities.org
Connect IDD website: https://www.connectidd.org
Hugs Café website: https://www.hugscafe.org
The Garden Foundation website: https://www.thegardenfoundationlv.org
Caroline Young, Director at Hope Heals, shares the story and mission of Mend Coffee & Goods. A cafe and marketplace in the heart of Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood that serves as both a community gathering spot and a platform for inclusive employment. A true embodiment of holistic hospitality.
Key Take Aways:
- Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of hospitality.
- Managers play a critical role in raising support without lowering standards.
Mend’s 5 Values:
1. Celebration in the proces
2. Interability co-laboring
3. Beauty and excellence that dignify
4. Unreasonable hospitality
5. Belonging and belovedness.
Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=cnFza3YybGV4eWhq
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Mend website: https://www.mendcoffee.com/
Hope Heals website: https://hopeheals.com/
Mend Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mendcoffee?igsh=MWJzcDJkNDlqOGd4Zw==
Shoutouts:
L’Arche: https://www.larcheusa.org/
The Jacob’s Ladder Group: https://thejacobsladdergroup.org/
The Shepherd hotel: https://www.shepherdhotels.com/
Jen Wiese, founder of BeeFree, shares her inspiring journey of creating a gluten-free snack company that not only caters to dietary needs but also empowers the disability community through job training and employment opportunities.
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Key Takeaways:
-Solve the problem that’s in front of you.
-Listening to community and customer needs is crucial.
-On-site job training builds confidence and skills for adults with disabilities.
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Links:
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
IGC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=MWVzbWpybm55bDN5ZA==
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BeeFree website: https://www.beefreegf.com/
BeeFree Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beefreeglutenfree?igsh=anlhZmYzZGJtNWI=%0A%0A%0A
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Shoutouts:
Bitty and Beau’s website: https:%20//www.bittyandbeauscoffee.com/
No Label at theTable website: https://nolabelatthetable.com/%0A%0A%0A
Join In Good Company co-founders Sarah Gabriel and Amanda Shojaee as they share the inspiration behind the podcast and who they hope to connect with along the way.
Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/
IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=MWVzbWpybm55bDN5ZA==
Something good is coming! Subscribe today so you don’t miss our first episode drop in May of 2025! See you soon!