DisTopia
Dom discusses his struggle with internalized ableism as an African American man with a disability in America, highlighting challenges with societal expectations and self-worth. They emphasize the importance of reframing perspectives and advocating for inclusivity and innovation in the face of systemic barriers.
info_outline 4 Wheels, Ep. 4: Growing Up DisabledDisTopia
In the latest episode of 4Wheels, Dom recalls growing up disabled in the 1990s, facing ableism and societal barriers, Dom found solace in programs that connects physically and folks labeled as "otherwise health impaired" in Michigan combined with atypical media representations that helped him embrace disability. Experiences with loss and his parent’s acceptance also helped shaped his perspective, motivating him to advocate for both himself and others. For full transcript visit:
info_outline 4 Wheels, Ep. 3: AdvocacyDisTopia
In this episode, host Dom talks about the challenges of improving accessibility in his living situation and the journey to install a ramp. He discusses the importance of understanding and support for disabled individuals and invites listeners to share their experiences to foster a supportive community. For full transcript visit:
info_outline DisKumbaya Ep. 2 | Adaptive AdventuresDisTopia
In this podcast episode, Dominick Harper recounts his adventurous night at a concert with co-host Amanda Jurysta, both wheelchair users Amanda and Dom share humorous and insightful moments, highlighting the challenges of navigating a world not always built for people with disabilities. From wardrobe mishaps to the exhilaration of experiencing a concert, they highlight the importance of planning, teamwork, and embracing the adaptable spirit of disability. For a full transcript visit:
info_outline 4 Wheels, Ep. 2: Access FatigueDisTopia
In today's powerful episode of 'Four Wheels', host Dominick Harper opens up about the challenges of self-advocacy as a disabled individual. He shares his personal experiences with inaccessible housing and the exhausting necessity of constantly fighting for basic needs. Join us for an insightful journey into the reality of living with a disability and the importance of awareness and action. Full transcript available at:
info_outline 4 Wheels, Ep. 1: AdaptabilityDisTopia
In this episode of 4 Wheels, Dom examines adaptability, the hassles of moving, "accessible" housing, and how exhausting it is for #Disabled people to always have to adapt to our surroundings. Full transcript available at:
info_outline DisKumbaya Episode 1: IntroDisTopia
In this special Sneak Preview of DisKumbaya, DisArt Cofounder Chris Smit introduces listeners to co hosts Amanda and Dominick. They discuss life, #disability and share a little bit about themselves. For a full transcript of this episode please visit. Image Description: Black and white image. The top right corner features the DisArt logo in the foreground with an abstract blurred white shape behind it. The left corner shows Chris Smit facing right wearing glasses and a black hat with a short bill. The top right reads “A DisArt Project '' in white letters. The words “DisKumbaya Hosted by...
info_outline In A Flash Episode 5: Part 2 - Dani's TwinsDisTopia
This coming episode we talk with the producer of Dani’s Twins, disability policy expert and aspiring Dad: Andy Arias. We talk about the impact of creativity on policy, his reasons for producing Dani’s twins, and why disabled people might just make slightly better parents than their able counterparts. Here’s a hint: it’s not based on our ability to teach a kid how to ride a bike. For a full transcript of this episode please visit . Image Description: In the foreground of the image is a white disabled man smiling into the camera. He has brown hair combed into a swoop. He wears a...
info_outline DisKumbaya Episode 1: Intro (Teaser)DisTopia
Begins with Dominick and Amanda introducing DisKumbaya. Chris asks a question and listeners hear a brief preview of their answer. For a full transcript of this episode please visit . Image Description: Black and white image. The top right corner features the DisArt logo in the foreground with an abstract blurred white shape behind it. The left corner shows Chris Smit facing right wearing glasses and a black hat with a short bill. The top right reads “A DisArt Project '' in white letters. The words “DisKumbaya Hosted by Dominick Harper & Amanda Jurysta Episode 1: Intro to...
info_outline In A Flash Episode 5: Part 2 - Dani's Twin (Teaser)DisTopia
Teaser for an upcoming episode in which In A Flash host, Jessica Stokes, talks with the producer of Dani’s Twins, disability policy expert and aspiring Dad: Andy Arias. We talk about the impact of creativity on policy, his reasons for producing Dani’s twins, and why disabled people might just make slightly better parents than their able counterparts. Here’s a hint: it’s not based on our ability to teach a kid how to ride a bike. For a full transcript of this episode please visit . Image Description: In the foreground of the image is a white disabled man smiling into the camera....
info_outlineDescription:
Disabled moms aren’t counted in most maternity statistics, and we aren’t found on the pages of obstetrics textbooks. Enter Dani’s Twins: a documentary about disability cultural advocate and quadriplegic mom Dani Izzie offering a rare and intimate look at the creativity, adaptation, and joy woven into disabled pregnancy and parenthood. This episode is the first of a two part series. In part one, we’ll talk with Dani about the role of creativity and community in the everyday life of a disabled mom. In part two of this series, we’ll zoom out to consider the role of creativity in transforming policy for disabled parents as we talk to the producer of Dani’s Twins, aspiring dad, and disability policy expert: Andy Arias.
Guest: Dani Izzie
Host: Jessica Stokes
Audio Producer: Lawrence Carter-Long
Transcript by: Lawrence Carter-Long
Music: And Just Like That By Bryan Teoh
Transcript:
Dani Izzie: I acquired my disability almost 15 years ago. So I'd say when I was first injured, one of the first questions that popped into my head is: Am I going to be able to be a mom with this disability? And there was a mentor in the rehab where I was, Shannon, who actually happens to be in the film. She was the first woman that I'd ever befriended and gotten to know who was a quadriplegic and also a mom. I was just amazed because I'd never seen it out there. And I'd just made the assumption that it would be too hard because what I was facing was unfamiliar territory. And so, yeah, I think Shannon was the first person that gave me hope. And then from there, I kept meeting more and more women who have kids. And I realized, okay, well, this is a regular thing. It's not even a big deal, actually!