In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with writer and speaker Emily Goodson about her journey with disability, self-acceptance, and inclusion. Emily shares her experience of acquiring a disability at age eight, navigating internalized ableism, and eventually embracing her identity. She discusses how disability has shaped her career in HR and made her a more empathetic leader. Emily highlights the importance of representation, open conversations, and inclusion in workplaces. She also provides advice for parents of children with disabilities and shares how recognizing her disability improved her mental health and confidence in personal and professional life.

Key Takeaways:

Defining Inclusion – Inclusion means an environment where everyone feels respected, valued, and able to participate fully.

Internalized Ableism – Growing up without role models made it difficult for Emily to embrace her disability, leading to feelings of shame.

Impact of Representation – Seeing people with disabilities in media and leadership roles can be transformative and affirming.

Workplace Inclusion – Companies must embed inclusion into recruiting, benefits, and leadership training to create equitable workplaces.

Power of Self-Acceptance – Fully embracing her disability led to better mental health, confidence, and stronger personal relationships.

Emily’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is an environment where everyone can feel respected, valued, where everyone can participate and show up.

Emily’s Bio:

Emily Goodson is deeply committed to reshaping the discourse surrounding disability, intimacy, and workplace inclusion.

At age 8, Emily experienced a brain injury, resulting in partial paralysis on the left side of her body.

After this injury, Emily faced a host of emotional and physical challenges, achieved significant recovery, and emerged empowered to educate others.

Emily's creative work has been featured in the LA Times and several photo gallery exhibits, sponsored by Disability Rights Now and the Bold Beauty Project. She is also in the publishing process for her first book, Dating Disability.

Beyond these pursuits, Emily brings her expertise to a range of brands, from startups to major production companies, consulting and facilitating discussion on disability inclusion and healthy workplace culture development.

Connect with Emily:

Website: https://www.ecgoodson.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecgoodson/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ecgoodson/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ecgoodson24

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 33

No - 45

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