Shows
Twenty-First Century DisabilityBeyond the Diagnosis: Muscle Up with Zoe HarrisonSend us a textIn this episode, we sit down with the inspiring Zoe Harrison, host of the podcast *Dystrophy Diaries* and author of the book *One In A Million*. Together, we explore our personal journeys with our diagnoses and the unique challenges we faced during our teenage years, particularly the struggle with internal ableism. Zoe shares her experiences navigating the complexities of living with dystrophy, offering insights into how she's turned her challenges into opportunities for growth and empowerment. We discuss the importance of representation, community, and self-acceptance, and how these themes resonate through h...
2025-10-1622 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityFashionably Inclusive: Victoria Scholz’s Style RevolutionSend us a text**Episode Description:**Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Victoria Scholz, an accessible fashion advocate who has been making waves in the fashion industry since the tender age of 15. With a master’s degree in sustainable fashion, Victoria is not just a visionary; she's a trailblazer dedicated to creating a more inclusive and environmentally friendly fashion landscape.**In This Episode, We Discuss:**- **Victoria's Early Start in Fashion:** Discover how Victoria began her journey in the fashion industry at just 15 years old and the...
2025-10-0233 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityFlexing the Future: How Robotic Arms Are Changing Lives. A Conversation With Laila BurnsSend us a text**Podcast Episode Show Notes: The Future is Within Reach: Laila and Sielo Robotics** **Episode Overview:** In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Laila and her pivotal role in founding Sielo Robotics, a groundbreaking company dedicated to creating assistive robotics. What began as a university class project has transformed into a promising startup, making significant strides in the field of adaptive technology.**Key Topics Discussed:**1. **Founding Story:** Discover how Laila and her team turned a class project into Sielo Robotics, a company focused on de...
2025-09-1833 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityHealing Hearts: The Role of a Chaplain in Complex Continuing CareSend us a textIn this episode, we sit down with Roshene Lawson, a compassionate and dedicated chaplain at Bruyère Health Centretown Campus. Roshene shares her insights on the role of spirituality and emotional support in healthcare, especially in the context of caring for patients with disabilities. She discusses the importance of holistic care and the impact of a supportive environment on patient well-being.**Key Topics:**- The role of chaplaincy in healthcare settings- Spiritual care for patients and families- The significance of community and support systems- P...
2025-09-0423 min
Byte Sized BlessingsInterview: Hollis Peirce ~ Living With Disability, On His Own Terms!Hey there friends!
I'm introducing you to Hollis Peirce this time, and to be honest, I was a little nervous before the conversation! We had tried to get together for a few months, but something always got in the way, and THEN, the timing was right, (finally) and I got to confab with this fierce and funny disability rights activist!
Besides for being an advocate for those who don't have a voice, Hollis also is a public speaker as well as podcaster, with his very own pod, Twenty-first Century Disability, which you can find here! He's...
2025-08-3154 minByte Sized BlessingsByte: Hollis Peirce ~ Living With Disability, On His Own Terms!Hey there friends!
I'm introducing you to Hollis Peirce this time, and to be honest, I was a little nervous before the conversation! We had tried to get together for a few months, but something always got in the way, and THEN, the timing was right, (finally) and I got to confab with this fierce and funny disability rights activist!
Besides for being an advocate for those who don't have a voice, Hollis also is a public speaker as well as podcaster, with his very own pod, Twenty-first Century Disability, which you can find here! He's...
2025-08-3111 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityIntimacy Unplugged: The Right to Love and Be LovedSend us a textIn this enlightening episode, we sit down with Maria, a full-time wheelchair user with Spina Bifida and a devoted mother of two. Maria passionately discusses her campaign advocating for the sexual rights of disabled individuals, shedding light on the critical need for awareness and education surrounding this often-overlooked topic. Throughout the conversation, Maria highlights the numerous challenges that disabled people encounter in accessing appropriate healthcare and sexual health education. She emphasizes the importance of fostering spontaneity and intimacy in relationships, which are crucial for the overall well-being of individuals with disabilities.
2025-06-1934 minTwenty-First Century DisabilitySavouring Success: Debra Erickson’s Recipe for Empowerment at The Blind KitchenSend us a textIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Debra Erickson, the owner of The Blind Kitchen, who shares her remarkable journey as a visually impaired chef, entrepreneur, and educator. Debra's passion for teaching visually impaired individuals how to cook safely and confidently shines through as she discusses the resources and techniques she provides to help others embrace their culinary skills. Highlights Debra's Personal Journey: - Insights into her life as a visually impaired chef. - The motivation behind starting The Blind Kitchen.Teaching Cooking Skills: ...
2025-06-0527 min
THE Podcaster NationTHE Podcaster Nation #78 - "Twenty-First Century Disability" Podcast with Hollis Peirce!!!Host of the "Twenty-First Century Disability" Podcast, this incredible and accomplished man, in his own words: "I am a chronically physically disabled man with Congenital Muscular Dystrophy. My constructive thoughts and strategies for reinvigorating society’s common perspective of disability, while protecting and championing the fabulous work that has been done to date, enable myself and others to thrive.""My approach and work have earned me honors and accolades that I’m immensely proud of including the Ottawa Celebration of People Award in 2008 and, most recently, in 2024, I was a Meritorious Service Medal Award Winner." This m...
2025-05-3054 min
This Is Your Strange and Beautiful LifeNo Surrender with Hollis PeirceToday’s guest is the bright light, podcast host, historian, athlete, and disability advocate, Hollis Peirce. With Hollis, disability is neither a tragedy nor a motivational speech. He offers a refreshing, real, and uplifting take on living with muscular dystrophy.Early on, a doctor told Hollis’s mother that her child would suffer from an “inability to thrive.” Instead, he developed what the experts might call, a lifelong case of thriving.In our all-dressed conversation, Hollis talks about everything—why it’s a waste of energy to get too hung up on language, what it’s like to lose...
2025-05-2200 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityManifesting Change: Tiffany Yu's Guide to an Anti-Ableist WorldSend us a textIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tiffany Yu, a passionate disability advocate who has made significant strides in the field of inclusivity and social justice. Tiffany shares her personal journey with disability and how it has shaped her identity and professional path. As the founder of Diversability, she is dedicated to building a community that champions the rights and voices of individuals with disabilities.Tiffany discusses the key themes of her book, "The Anti-Ableist Manifesto," exploring its structure and the inspiration behind it. She emphasizes the importance of challenging...
2025-05-2239 min
Podcasting Unlocked: Tips and Growth Podcast Strategies for Impact-Driven EntrepreneursThe Power of Advocacy Through Podcasting with Hollis PeirceCan a simple microphone and a heartfelt conversation truly change the world? Absolutely. In this episode, we’re diving into the powerful intersection of advocacy and podcasting with Hollis Peirce, the driving force behind "21st Century Disability." Hollis shares his inspiring journey of using his podcast as a platform to redefine disability, challenge societal norms, and give voice to often-unheard stories. Discover how a shift from scripted lectures to genuine dialogue can ignite real change and foster a community dedicated to creating a more inclusive world. This week, episode 208 of Podcasting Unlocked is about the power of advocacy through po...
2025-05-2223 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityThe Blind Blogger's Bookshelf: A Love for LiteratureSend us a textIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Max Ivey, known as "the Blind Blogger," to explore his remarkable journey through life as someone with Retinitis Pigmentosa. Max shares his insights on reading, writing, and the importance of accessibility in our digital world. From his unexpected transition from a career in carnival management to becoming an accessibility advisor, Max's story is one of resilience, passion, and advocacy.Max opens up about his experience living with this progressive eye condition, discussing how it has shaped his worldview and influenced his love for...
2025-05-0835 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityVerses and Voices: A Poet's Perspective on SchizophreniaSend us a textIn this episode, we welcome special guest Dale Walsh, who shares his extraordinary journey of recovery from schizophrenia through the lens of his poetry. Dale offers insightful perspectives on living with mental illness, drawing from his personal experiences. Together, we delve into various facets of mental health, including the role of therapy and the unique challenges faced by those with schizophrenia.Dale also discusses his dual career as a poet and a mentor, offering guidance and support to others navigating similar paths. His story is one of resilience and creativity, providing...
2025-04-2433 minTwenty-First Century DisabilitySmall Steps, Giant Leaps: Transformative Impact of Little DeedsSend us a textIn this episode of Twenty-First Century Living, Greg and Hollis explore the unique career path of Greg Cantori, whose journey from bicycle repairman to advocate for aging-in-place has reshaped the landscape of home safety. Discover how Greg's knack for practical solutions and his entrepreneurial spirit led to the establishment of Little Deeds, a company focused on making homes safer and more comfortable for the aging population through simple yet effective modifications.*Contact Little Deeds*Phone: (410) 450-4466Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LittleDeedsHomeAdaptations...
2025-04-1039 min
Winning Isn't Easy: Long-Term Disability ERISA ClaimsDisability in the Modern World, Advocacy, and More with Guest Hollis PeirceHave a comment or question? Click this sentence to send us a message, and we might answer it in a future episode.Welcome to Season 5, Episode 12 of Winning Isn't Easy. In this episode, we'll dive into the complicated topic of "Disability in the Modern World, Advocacy, and More with Guest Hollis Peirce."Join attorney Nancy L. Cavey, a leading expert in disability claims, and special guest Hollis Peirce for an insightful discussion on disability advocacy, the realities of living with a disability in today’s world, and more. Hollis, born with muscular dystrophy, shares his pe...
2025-04-0836 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityFragile Frames, Unbreakable Art: A Brush with ResilienceSend us a textIn this inspiring episode, we sit down with Katherine Klimatas, a talented graphic designer who shares her journey of creativity and entrepreneurship. Katherine, a graduate of Loyola University, has not only built a successful business but also advocates for change and awareness as a designer living with brittle bones disease.Join us as we explore Katherine's unique perspective on design, how her personal experiences have shaped her career, and the innovative ways she's overcome challenges to establish her own thriving business. Her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and determination.
2025-03-2727 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityWheels of Change: Andrew Gurza's Queer Spin on Disability AdvocacySend us a textIn this episode of Twenty-First Century Disability, Hollis sits down with Andrew Gurza, a prominent disability awareness consultant, to delve into his impactful career and personal experiences. Join us as we explore a range of topics that are not only insightful but also essential for understanding the multifaceted nature of living with a disability.Learn more about Andrew Gurza by following him on social media! Instagram: @andrewgurza6 Bluesky: @andrewgurza6.bsky.social Watch "Picture This": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fMCsyhvnEcPurchase Andrew's Book: Notes Fr...
2025-03-1335 min
OneLegUpAlex AdaptsHow Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25How Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25 Powered By PodmatchThanks to Hollis for Joining Alex Garrett's One Leg Up Network! As written on Podmatch, here is more on Mr. Peirce's advocacy work in Canada! Hollis Peirce, a physically disabled man in his late 30s, uses his dry and dark humor to navigate life's challenges. Diagnosed with MD at six months, he defied low expectations and pursued ambitious goals. He earned a bachelor's in History in 2015 and a master's in History with a specialization in Digital Humanities in 2019. Fi...
2025-03-1148 min
OneLegUpAlex GarrettHow Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25 Powered By PodmatchHow Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25 Powered By PodmatchThanks to Hollis for Joining Alex Garrett's One Leg Up Network! As written on Podmatch, here is more on Mr. Peirce's advocacy work in Canada! Hollis Peirce, a physically disabled man in his late 30s, uses his dry and dark humor to navigate life's challenges. Diagnosed with MD at six months, he defied low expectations and pursued ambitious goals. He earned a bachelor's in History in 2015 and a master's in History with a specialization in Digital Humanities in 2019. Fi...
2025-03-1148 minOneLegUpAlex GarrettHow Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25 Powered By PodmatchHow Hollis Peirce Has One Leg Up For Canadians With Disabilities 3-11-25 Powered By PodmatchThanks to Hollis for Joining Alex Garrett's One Leg Up Network! As written on Podmatch, here is more on Mr. Peirce's advocacy work in Canada! Hollis Peirce, a physically disabled man in his late 30s, uses his dry and dark humor to navigate life's challenges. Diagnosed with MD at six months, he defied low expectations and pursued ambitious goals. He earned a bachelor's in History in 2015 and a master's in History with a specialization in Digital Humanities in 2019. Fi...
2025-03-1148 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityTouch-Free and Barrier-Free: A Chat with Rob DottenSend us a textWelcome to another enlightening episode of Twenty-First Century Disability, where today, we take a deep dive into a realm that is as inspiring as it is innovative—accessible technology. Join us as we chat with Rob Dotten, the dynamic director of accessibility initiatives at the forefront of the contactless access revolution. Whether you’re an accessibility advocate, a tech innovator, or someone personally affected by disability, this episode provides rich insights into how we can co-create a future that is accessible for everyone. Listen in and find out how touch-free can mean barrier-free! ...
2025-02-2737 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityBehind the Smile: Dr. Jeff Preston on the Joker and Mental Health in Batman FilmsSend us a textIn this compelling episode of Twenty-First Century Disability, we welcome Dr. Jeff Preston, a distinguished professor of Disability Studies at Western University. Dr. Preston discusses his insightful research on the depiction of mental health issues through the narratives of the Joker character in Batman films and examines themes of mental health and masculinity through the lens of popular television. His expertise sheds light on how these portrayals reflect and shape societal attitudes towards mental health and disability.Follow Jeff onVisit Jeff's Website: https://jeffpreston...
2025-02-1345 min
The Lean to the Left PodcastHollis Peirce's Battle for Disability RightsThe Battle for Disability Rights Hollis Peirce, 36, has courageously fought Congenital Muscular Dystrophy for his entire life and even launched a power hockey league for the disabled in Canada.On the Lean to the Left podcast, Hollis discusses his long battle for disability rights and the threat that Donald Trump poses for disabled individuals who rely on Medicaid and other government assistance programs that would be shut down under Trump's order to freeze federal spending for grants, loans and other aid programs.Hollis shares his perspectives on Trump's actions...
2025-01-3135 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityBONUS EPISODE! Featuring Stuart MackaySend us a textThis episode features Mr Stuart Mackay, who is currently campaigning to be the Ontario Liberal Party's candidate in Ottawa Centre. He is passionate about his community, and he spoke with us about his passion for more disability rights in Ontario.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and...
2024-11-2821 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityBONUS EPISODE! Featuring Stuart MackaySend us a textThis episode of Twenty-First Century Disability features an interview of Stuart Mackay. Stuart is currently campaigning to be the Ontario Liberal Party's candidate in Ottawa Centre. One topic of his campaign platform centres itself around disability rights. Our conversation revolves around how he seeks to implement these ideas, should he become the Ontario Liberal Party's candidate in Ottawa Centre.
2024-11-2830 min
Twenty-First Century DisabilityParasports In the CommunitySend us a textThe Paralympic Games is an amazing event. However, when they are done these amazing adaptive sports virtually disappear. This episode of Twenty-First Century Disability looks at these parasports from a community, or grassroots level. This episode follows three parasports that are available in Ottawa, Canada. These parasports are powerhockey, wheelchair fencing, and adaptive boxing. - Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the d...
2024-11-0730 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityHistory of the Paralympic GamesSend us a textThis episode of Twenty-First Century Disability discusses the history of the Paralympic Games. Within the episode you will learn about its early beginnings as the Stoke Mandeville Games in Great Britain, to the Paralympic Games that we know and love today. - Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes a...
2024-09-0522 min
The Lean to the Left PodcastHollis Peirce's Battle for Disability RightsThe Battle for Disability Rights Hollis Peirce, 36, has courageously fought Congenital Muscular Dystrophy for his entire life and even launched a power hockey league for the disabled in Canada.On the Lean to the Left podcast, Hollis discusses his long battle for disability rights and the threat that Donald Trump poses for disabled individuals who rely on Medicaid and other government assistance programs that would be shut down under Trump's order to freeze federal spending for grants, loans and other aid programs.Hollis shares his perspectives on Trump's actions, emphasizing the adverse effects on vulnerable populations, including individuals...
2024-08-2835 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityThe Experiences of a Vulnerable Patient Part 2: Life in Complex/Post Acute CareSend us a textThis episode of Twenty-First Century Disability is a follow up episode to our previous one. It depicts my real life experiences in a complex/ post cute care which began in 2022. This is part two of a two part episode that revolve around the topics of the vulnerable patient.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online. Subscribe to...
2024-08-0820 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityThe Experiences of a Vulnerable Patient Part 1: Life In Acute CareSend us a textWhat is a vulnerable patient? What is it like to be a vulnerable patient in acute care? This episode of Twenty-First Century Disability answers these questions by depicting my real life experiences in acute care in 2021/2022. This is part one of a two part episode that revolve around the topics of the vulnerable patient.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the...
2024-07-1820 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityThe History of the Wheelchair Part 2: How to get a wheelchair!Send us a textIn this episode of Twenty-First Century Disability, we take a deep dive into the world of occupational therapy. Amanda Sutherland, who is my occupational therapist here at Saint Vincent Bruyère, helps us to understand just how complicated a process it is to purchase a new chair for any patient. As an example we discuss just how many bumps we have had to overcome to get me in my new wheelchair.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century D...
2024-04-0928 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityThe History of the WheelchairSend us a textThis episode is the first episode of season two of Twenty-First Century Disability! This episode celebrates March 1st as the International Wheelchair Day by describing the history of the wheelchair from its beginnings to the present day powerchair. This is part one of a two part episode. Part two will be released April 10th, 2024.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the...
2024-03-2626 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityIdentitySend us a textWhen someone says the word 'identity', it can mean many different things to many different people. This episode discusses the term as it relates to disability. The topic of disability and identity is too complex to cover in a single episode. Therefore, we will begin with my perspective on the matter. Fear not, this subject will be covered in various other episodes, but this is a great place to start.- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability...
2024-01-0116 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityDisability 2: Hemiplegia/Christian Stylianou Master of CricketSend us a textThis episode of Twenty-First Century Disability is a VERY special episode. First, it is the second episode of a series of episodes that focuses on one specific type of disability. The disability which it discusses is Hemiplegia. Secondly, it is part two, of a two-part episode that is co-hosted by Christian Stylianou.Christian Stylianou is the host of a podcast titled The Disability Podcast. You can find part one of this two-part episode on his podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/6ScQyQdkOGV6TD4cAK6BcA?si=a8fde894397c4324. You c...
2023-12-0133 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityDisability 1: Muscular DystrophySend us a textThis is the first-ever episode of a special series where we take more of a deep dive into a particular disability. Within this series of episodes, we will discuss the history of the disability, as well as whether or not there are different types of that disability. We will also chat with someone who either has that particular disability or is knowledgeable about that disability. Today we will take a look at Muscular Dystrophy. Our guest for today is Debra Chiabai. Debra is a former President of the Muscular Dystrophy Association - Ottawa C...
2023-11-071h 00Twenty-First Century DisabilityAbleismSend us a textWhat does ableism mean to you? The first full-length episode of Twenty-First Century Disability is about this topic. When I think about what frustrates me most is when someone makes assumptions about a disabled person because they are in a wheelchair. That is just one example, though. Let me know what it means to you in a comment below!- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - U...
2023-10-2015 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityLife Is A Job.Send us a textDo you ever feel like the life you lead is a full-time job? Many in this world, such as stay-at-home parents, podcasters, and academics, can relate to this idea. I have experience with two out of the three in this list. But some of you may not realize that to many disabled persons, just getting through a day-to-day life requires the same amount of energy as a full-time job.This topic is what episode two of 21st Century Disability is all about! Take a listen and let me know what you...
2023-10-2016 minTwenty-First Century DisabilityWelcome to 21st Century DisabilitySend us a textSpecial preview episode of 21st Century Disability. Find out all that you can expect to hear while listening to this new and exciting podcast!- Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode. Instagram: @21stcenturydisability Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events by clicking here: https://www.21stcenturydisability.com/contact!
2023-10-1207 min