In this episode of Pushing Forward with Alycia, host Alycia Anderson welcomes Jonathan Kaufman, a business strategist, licensed psychotherapist, and disability advocate. Jonathan shares his journey of living with cerebral palsy, discussing key moments that have shaped his perspective on disability. He highlights his extensive academic background and work with influential figures like the Obamas and Mihály Csíkszentmihályi. Jonathan delves into the intersections of disability, business, mental health, and culture, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and the concept of disability as a language of innovation. This episode explores the significance of Disability Pride Month and Jonathan's unique approach to consulting, which combines his expertise in anthropology, psychology, and disability advocacy.

Roadmap to the Conversation

00:00 Introduction to Pushing Forward with Alycia

00:30 Meet Jonathan Kaufman: A Disability Advocate and Adventurer

01:44 Jonathan's Early Life and Education

03:59 Influential Moments and Career Path

05:41 The Intersection of Disability, Business, and Innovation

16:46 Mental Health and Leadership in the Workplace

23:36 Jonathan's Consulting Work and Philosophy

28:39 Disability Pride and Personal Reflections

31:38 Closing Thoughts and Pushing Forward Moment

A Quote from Jonathan

“Yes, I have a disability and I'm proud of the person I am becoming with a disability, understanding that it is a part of who I am.

It's not all of me, but it makes me who I am. And, I see the world through this lens and I'm happy to see it through this lens.” ~ Jonathan Kaufman

Main Topics & Insights

🌟 Meet A Trailblazer in Disability Advocacy

🧭 A Journey Through Perspective

🎯 Focus on What You Can Do!

📣 Be Your Own Advocate!

🛤️ The Journey is Always a Work in Progress

🔧 Creating Opportunities: Defying a World Not Made for Us

💡 Disability as an Innovation Catalyst

🧠 The Intersection of Mental Health and Leadership

😨 Fear: The Root of Societal Barriers

🙋‍♀️ Self-Advocacy and Overcoming Internalized Ableism

🦋 Embracing Identity: Pride in Becoming

♿️ Reclaiming Disability Pride

🔥 Transforming Adversity into Power

👵 Inclusivity: Disability and Aging

🔭 Rethinking Disability for the Future

🤝 Consulting for Change

Connect with Jonathan Kaufman

Jonathan’s Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | YouTube

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