Episode 6 - Reframing Disability, Leadership & Innovation Through a Broader Lens

In this episode of The Independent, host Dr. Victor Pineda speaks with Jonathan Kaufman - founder of J Kaufman Consulting, licensed psychotherapist, executive coach, and thought leader working at the intersection of leadership, organizational culture, and disability inclusion.Born with cerebral palsy, Jonathan brings a powerful perspective that reframes disability not as a limitation, but as a lens for innovation, strategy, and belonging. His work bridges personal experience with business insight, helping organizations move beyond compliance toward meaningful culture change.This conversation explores:• How disability shapes identity, leadership, and worldview• The concept of “Accessibility Intelligence” and why inclusion must go beyond checklists• How organizations can rethink culture, belonging, and psychological safety• The role of disability in business strategy, innovation, and the evolving future of work• Why interdependence and community are essential to building resilient systemsTogether, they examine how disability justice principles can transform not only workplaces, but how we understand leadership, value, and human connection.Subscribe to The Independent, produced by the Center for Independent Living (CIL), for more conversations on disability justice, leadership, and the future of access.Support the work of CIL and help sustain conversations like this:Donate today at https://thecil.org/donate/