A Hopeful Future Includes a More Inclusive Workforce. Conversation with Jennifer Wiese

Jennifer Wiese joins me to talk about the importance of including people with disabilities in the workforce, addressing the stigma and barriers that still exist. Jen is well placed to have a keen perspective on this, as she is the owner with her husband of BeeFree, producers of gluten-free snacks and a true Indiana success story. Through their non-profit arm, BeeFree Bakes, they provide jobs and resources for adults with autism and other disabilities, empowering them to thrive in a supportive environment. Their oldest son was diagnosed with autism when he was 8 years old, and in their search for resources and support they ultimately took their own initiative to provide these things to others in similar situations.Jen expresses hope for a future where employers recognize the value of diverse abilities, and see individuals with disabilities as valuable contributors to the workforce. Visibility and representation of people with disabilities is crucial, and we explore how the stigmas surrounding disabilities can be dismantled through awareness.Find Jen and BeeFree's info here:Website: ⁠http://beefreegf.com/https://www.beefreebakes.org/Instagram: @beefreeglutenfree⁠TikTok: @beefreeglutenfree, @hifromjenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeeFreegfLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-wiese-7b98392aContact Tabitha:[email protected]