KPFA - Pushing Limits

A wheelchair isn’t just a way to get around. To a dancer, it’s also a tool for creating art, movement, and beauty.  As AXIS Dance approaches its 40th year of dance performance, the venerable East Bay dance organization will be featured in the Sept. 4 edition of Pushing Limits. For four decades, AXIS has delighted national audiences by showing how chairs on wheels can be every bit as graceful, expressive, and creative as any non-disabled human body.  Executive Director Holly Million and Artistic Director Nadia Adame speak with producer and host Eddie Ytuarte about why this organization continues to grow during a time of uncertainty for nonprofit arts presenters.  This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte.  For a full program transcription, click here The post Dancing Beyond Limits – Pushing Limits – September 4, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) currently has 65,765 people locked in their detention warehouses. We wondered how many were disabled and what the conditions are for them. We wanted to find out what is being done to keep people out of detention centers in the first place. We went looking. A team of disability advocates visited ICE detention centers throughout California to advocate for better conditions, the abolition of solitary confinement and more. Richard Diaz from Disability Rights California (DRC), who led the team, explains what they found. They’ve released reports documenting the condition of those with disabilities in the facilities. In L.A. a disability peer group helps its members with the immigration process, obtaining assistive technology, and hosts support groups. We talk with Jose Luis-Jimenez, who’s in a leadership role with Immigrants with Disabilities. Jose also organized an international goalball tournament in Southern California as the Trump administration made it harder for foreigners from certain parts of the world to visit the U.S. This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton, hosted by Bonnie Elliott, and edited by Denny Daughters. If you would like DRC assistance with a loved one in an ICE detention center, contact Richard Diaz at (213) 213-8000 For a full program transcription, click here The post Disability, Immigration and Detention – Pushing Limits – August 28, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

We call our news highlight program Disability in MAGA Land. That’s because, frankly, the news for people with disabilities these days is almost completely related to bad decisions by the right-wing Trump Administration. But sometimes… Sometimes, we see the world differently than many other lefty KPFA listeners and programmers. In this program for instance, we join Canadian conservatives to raise an alarm about a plan to enlarge those who are eligible for Physician Assisted Suicide. And, in another item, we see how disability rights can intersect with abortion rights in a peculiar way. Listen to these and other news highlights from the Disability Community. Tell us what you think at [email protected]   Produced by Eddie Ytuarte.  Hosted by Eddie Ytuarte and Adrienne Lauby. First Disability Pride March in New York City, {Photo courtesy of United Nations)       Sources and Other Information about today’s stories: Program transcript coming soon. Disability Justice and Palestine https://uptonrebecca.substack.com/p/disability-justice-and-palestine Rebecca Upton recommends the following organizations to support and/or follow: HEAL Palestine The Atfaluna Society for Deaf Children Disability Divest Disability Justice for Palestine Collective Article Footnotes: Beutels, F., & Verhoeven, M. (2025). Contextualizing disability: Settler-colonial power and the production of impairment in Palestine. DiGeSt – Journal of Diversity and Gender Studies, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.21825/digest.95437 Goodarzi, H., Badri, T., & Javadzadeh, H. R. (2023). War, forced displacement, and lack of healthcare in the Gaza Strip. Trauma Monthly, 28(5), 945-946. doi.org/10.30491/tm.2023.427311.1665 Hamamra, B., Mahamid, F., & Mayaleh, A. (2025). Childhood under siege: Battling malnutrition, disease, and despair during genocide in Gaza. Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition, 44(1), 321. https://doi.org/10.1186/s41043-025-00321-y Sen, S., & Asi, Y. (2024). Coming to terms: Gaza and disability. Disability & Society. Advance online publication. doi.org/10.1002/nad.12187   Surrogate mother gives birth over “parents objection”  https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/aug/12/surrogate-mother-texas-gives-birth https://abc13.com/story/mckenna-west-surrogates-fight-parental-rights-dallas-could-discourage-surrogacy-use-texas-lawyers-say/19702274/   Canada May Allow Mentally Disabled People Medical Assistance To Die   https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/maid-mental-illness-canada-9.7240830 https://www.cbc.ca/news/health/maid-mental-disorder-committee-report-government-9.7238589   California Strengthens Hate Crime Protection https://thearcca.org/news-room/press-releases/ Photo from: https://www.pickpik.com/hospice-wrinkled-hand-elderly-old-senior-patient-110996 Trump Withholds Billions from California https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VKs61x5FxE https://healthlaw.org/news/californias-final-2026-2027-budget-delays-the-worst-medi-cal-cuts-but-still-harms-millions-of-californians/ Cat Training Helps Kids With Disabilities – and Their Cats  https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/16/14/2133 The post Disability In MAGA Land – August 21, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

The current state of disability rights wouldn’t be what it is without the rich history and the strong individuals who pushed the movement forward. But what about the future? Who is propelling us into the next era of disability rights?   Ryan Manriquez On this week’s program, Dominick Trevethan attempts to answer that question by interviewing two of his peers. His guests, Ryan Manriquez and Sarah Bellish, both live with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, or SMA, and they want more from our current systems. Listen in as they discuss the changes they hope to see in the coming years and outline how to fight for the future we want.   Ryan Manriquez is a disability justice advocate, a graduate of UC Davis and UC Berkeley, and, as he puts it, a “transit nerd.” Working in the Bay Area, he hopes to use his lived experience as a person with a disability to push for more accessible housing, public transportation, and government-funded medical research.   Sarah Bellish is the Senior Manager of Advocacy at Cure SMA, where she works in public policy to help push vital disability legislation through the doors of Congress. Issues important to her include increasing the current SSI Asset Limit, making it safer for those with disabilities to fly, and improving the current state of accessible public transportation.   We’ve come this far. So, where do we go next? Find out on Pushing Limits!   This program was hosted and produced by Dominick Trevethan. Editing by Dominick Trevethan and Denny Daughters.   For a full program transcription, click here Relevant Resources:   Cure SMA   Cure SMA Advocacy  How to become a Cure SMA Advocate  Sarah Bellish The post SMA Voices, Disability Rights – Pushing Limits – August 14, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

In 1981, longtime disability activist Jean Stewart guest edited a special issue of the legendary folk music magazine Sing Out!, featuring folk musicians and songwriters whose work explored disability themes. Though Sing Out! is no longer in publication, Jean remains a cherished friend of Pushing Limits and continues her advocacy from her home in El Sobrante. This week, Pushing Limits revisits that landmark 1981 issue by spotlighting two prominent musicians it featured: Doc Watson and Django Reinhardt. Both were extraordinary guitarists who lived with distinct disabilities, came from different continents, and mastered different musical genres. Enjoy part of your Friday afternoon with Pushing Limits, produced and hosted by Eddie Ytuarte. For a full program transcription, click here The post Disability in Song: Revisiting Sing Out! – Pushing Limits – August 7, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What did it take for blind people to gain access to computers before modern day screen readers and smartphones? Join Denny Daughters as he talks with Mike Tanner, a blind educator who teaches blind and visually impaired students in Southern California, about the evolution of adaptive technology for the blind.  From the first scanning and reading machines of the 1970s to groundbreaking devices like the Apple IIe, VersaBraille, and early PCs, they explore the innovations that opened the door to education, employment, and independence.  This first installment traces the history of adaptive technology from the early 1970s through about 1990. It’s the beginning of a series exploring the evolution of technology that has transformed life for blind people.  This program is hosted, produced, and edited by Denny Daughters.  For a full program transcription, click here The post The History of Adaptive Technology for the Blind (Part 1) – Pushing Limits – July 31, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

“Sexual violence is not just an issue within the disability community — it’s a defining issue.”   Margaux Sorenson Margaux Sorenson     Nancy Williams-Nettles “Historically the intersectionality of disability and race was overlooked by [both] the civil rights and disability movements.” Nancy Williams-Nettles   What brings them to this understanding and what can we do in response? Hear presentations from both these women on this program. Challenging, stimulating information from last year’s “Disability Strong” conference.   This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton, voiced by Adrienne Lauby and edited by Adrienne Lauby & Denny Daughters.  Conference audio was provided by Jen Chassmam-Brown.   You can access all the conference presentations HERE. For a full transcription of this program, click here   ANNOUNCEMENTS Celebrate the 36th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act Friday, July 24th @1pm on Zoom.  Open Mic. THE ORGANIZERS ARE LOOKING FOR DANCERS, MUSICIANS, POETS, AND OTHER PEOPLE TO PERFORM. THE FIRST 30 PEOPLE WHO SIGN UP WILL RECEIVE A $30 DOLLAR DOORDASH GIFT CARD!! To sign up and to request accommodations, e-mail [email protected] ———————————- An Effort to Increase Connection Between People with Disabilities and Able-Bodied People Friday, July 31st @ 1 pm on zoom  Disabled people will be able to ask able-bodied people how they relate to us and how they view their own identities. The group will explore questions like: “When did you know you didn’t have a disability?” “Why don’t certain people without disabilities ask people with speech disabilities to repeat themselves?” “Do you feel a connection to others without disabilities?” “How does it feel to walk/drive a car/be understood by strangers?” Attendance is limited to 40 people. To sign up and to request accommodations please email [email protected]. The post Disability, Violence & Race – Pushing Limits – July 17, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

How do you produce radio when you can’t see the screen? Or when you only have the use of a few fingers?  This week on Pushing Limits, producers Dominick Trevethan and Denny Daughters take you behind the microphone to share how they edit audio, produce radio, and overcome barriers using assistive technology and adaptive techniques.  They also discuss why authentic disability representation matters—not just in front of the microphone as guests, but behind the scenes as producers and editors.  This program was produced and edited by Denny Daughters and Dominick Trevethan. It is hosted by Dominick Trevethan.  Relevant Resources:  Here’s the app Dominick uses to control his laptop: https://apps.apple.com/app/id629019487 Here’s the screen reader Denny uses: https://www.nvaccess.org/ For a full program transcription, click here The post The Art of Accessible Editing – Pushing Limits – July 10, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Will we return to the bad old days of existence in substandard hospitals and nursing homes?  Or will we fight to preserve our lives in the community? Sadly, this is not a rhetorical question.   In 1999, the United States Supreme Court passed the Olmstead decision determining that people with disabilities should not be forced into institutions when they can be safely and appropriately supported in community settings. Or, in other words, people with mental and other disabilities no longer had to be incarcerated in oppressive institutions when they could reside in whatever type of community living was most appropriate to the individual.  But in a memo issued in June, the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel upended that guidance. It argued that neither the Americans with Disabilities Act, nor Section 504, two major disability rights laws, requires states to provide services in the most mainstream setting.   Pushing Limits on Friday, July 3 interviews Eric Harris, Associate Executive Director of External Affairs for Disability Rights California, to discuss Olmstead and the threat against it.  This Program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte.  Click here for a relevant article. For more info on our guest click here or read below:  Eric Harris is DRC’s Associate Executive Director of External Affairs with an extensive career working closely with disability leaders, community members, and elected officials throughout the country to progress change for the disability community. Eric Harris Harris brings significant local, state and federal policy experience, having worked for Congresswoman Barbara Lee, the Democratic National Committee and the California and Hawaii State NAACP.  Mr. Harris has led discussions on disability pride, inclusion and access on platforms throughout the country. He has spoken at Harvard Law School, the University of California at Berkeley School of Medicine and at the White House.   Harris started his time at DRC in 2019 working in the legislation and estrategic partnerships and community engagement units. He served on the State Independent Living Council as a Governor Newsom appointee and as a board member for the Resources for Independent Living in Sacramento. He grew up in Sacramento, California and was an elite wheelchair basketball player.  “Creating public policy that improves the lives of disabled people has been my life’s mission. I look forward to working closely with intersectional disability leaders throughout the state to improve the lives of all people with disabilities.”  For a full program transcription, click here The post Olmstead Under Threat – Pushing Limits – July 3, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Jo, who lives with chronic illness, wears the ‘Please Offer Me a Seat’ badge and sunflower lanyard on public transport.  If you’re wondering through the Trump fog, we have some help for you.  There are so many problems, so many alarms, so many changes. . . how can anyone take it all in and get out the front door in the morning. So, today, we bring you key stories of disability in MAGA Land.  We’ve sorted through the headlines, checked for overlooked news, and found the disability context you need to make sense of it all. Click here for the Transcript These are the stories in this episode, with links to our sources: Gaza – Disabled Arabs in Israel  https://sjdr.se/articles/10.16993/sjdr.1002 Lebanon – Forgotten Victims https://www.hi-us.org/en/news/lebanon-people-with-disabilities-forgotten-victims-of-the-crisis Amputees in Gaza  https://www.hi-us.org/en/escalating-amputation-crisis-in-gaza-amid-severe-prosthetics-shortage  Haitian and Syrians Sent Home Leaving Nursing Homes in Crisis Disability Moved from Education Dept. https://www.the74million.org/article/splitting-up-special-ed-and-civil-rights-will-dilute-services-for-students-experts-say/ https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/06/rfk-jr-disability-special-education-hhs-kennedy-autism/?ref=disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io London Badges https://tfl.gov.uk/transport-accessibility/please-offer-me-a-seat https://hdsunflower.com/ https://www.bodybabble.com/p/the-politics-of-sitting-down Work Requirements – food stamps and Medi-Cal https://www.nokidhungry.org/blog/why-more-snap-work-requirements-will-harm-families-and-increase-hunger Expected rise in SSI benefits https://web.charityengine.net/Default.aspx?tsid=40811 https://www.disabilityscoop.com/2025/10/24/ssi-social-security-benefits-will-rise-next-year/31698/ 8.  Olmstead Under Attack https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/06/trump-doj-memo-olmstead-psychiatric-disabilities-institutions-mental-health/?ref=disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io https://mailchi.mp/c57f2fa9c907/alert-executive-branchs-assault-on-the-integration-mandate?ref=disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io   These important stories were not able to fit into this episode, read the sources below for more information about them: Private Equity takes over services https://pestakeholder.org/reports/private-equity-in-intellectual-and-developmental-disability-services/ https://adawatch.org/category/disability-rights-justice-news/ Prism Reports Dreadful Conditions in Gaza https://prismreports.org/2025/12/08/gaza-disabled-palestinians-disabilities/ Caregivers with Disabilities – Adrienne https://heller.brandeis.edu/community-living-policy/research-policy/publications/titles/caregivers-w-disabilities.html https://disability-thinking-weekday.ghost.io/4-20-26-caregiving-and-a-look-back-at-winter/   Photo Credit: @presentedbyjo. https://www.bodybabble.com/p/the-politics-of-sitting-down This program produced and hosted by Eddie Ytuarte and Adrienne Lauby. The post Pushing Limits – Disability In MAGA Land – June, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

We’ve spun a lot of records and told a lot of stories—but there’s still more to discover. And speaking of…   Join Denny Daughters on Friday, June 19, at 2:30 pm for another installment of Musicians With Disabilities. This time, Denny explores the stories and music of artists affected by blindness, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Discover how these performers continued to create and leave their mark on music despite the obstacles they faced.   Along the way, you might learn something new about the artists and groups behind the songs. Featuring music from the 1960s through the 1990s, this program offers a unique blend of great music and fascinating stories.   This show was hosted edited and produced by Denny Daughters.  The post Musicians With All Types of Disabilities – Pushing Limits – June 19, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

This Friday, Pushing Limits talks to “The Last Person on IHSS.”   This Friday afternoon at 2:30, Pushing Limits presents a radio play entitled “The Last Person on IHSS.”   It’s the year 2036, three years since California eliminated its In-Home Supportive Services program, commonly known as IHSS. Since 1973, this program has allowed people with disabilities to choose the individual they want to assist them with daily living and provides the funds to hire them. In the years since the program was eliminated, several funds had been set up to pay caregivers. However, due to the failing economy, these funds soon ran out. People were also encouraged to volunteer their time to care for those with disabilities, while former IHSS recipients were told to use their savings to pay for care. However, month after month, more people with disabilities ran out of funding, forcing them into institutions. After much research, the Pushing Limits team identified Betty Adler of Berkeley, CA, as the last person enrolled in the IHSS program to live independently. For the past three years, the 80-year-old Adler has been using her inheritance and personal savings to keep her 42-year-old caregiver, Amy, employed. However, Betty’s money has run out.    We interviewed Betty on the eve of her entering a nursing home to find out about her life as the last person on IHSS. Come join us to hear an episode from the future that we hope to never see.    After the play, we’ll return to 2026 and rebroadcast some important information about current Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund initiatives, including the intersections of disability with immigration policy, physician-assisted suicide, and reproductive rights.  The Last Person on IHSS stars:    Denny Daughters   Kelly Kivlahan   Emily Bridges   Dominick Trevethan   Jennifer Chassman Browne Joni Gold   The script was written by the cast, Jacob Lesner-Buxton, and Collin Thoma and was produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. Editing was done by Denny Daughters and Dominick Trevethan.   If you are inspired by the play, you can e-mail your legislators your thoughts on the IHSS program at https://findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov/  For a full program transcription, click here The post The Last Person on IHSS – Pushing Limits – June 12, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Pushing Limits continues its coverage of disability issues in the Middle East, particularly as tensions and military conflict continue to affect the region.  Hannah Guedenet This Friday, June 5, our focus turns to Lebanon. We’ll examine the state of disability rights in the country, the availability of services and support for people with disabilities, and the challenges faced by the large population of Syrian refugees living there.  Joining us is Hannah Guedenet, U.S. Executive Director of Humanity & Inclusion, an international organization that recently released a report on disability in Lebanon. She’ll discuss the report’s findings, and disability in Lebanon as Israeli Defense forces constantly occupy more of the country.  Hannah Guedenet joined Humanity & Inclusion as the U.S. Executive Director in November 2024. She brings more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and program management to drive global health and food security initiatives. Passionate about impactful storytelling and stakeholder engagement, she excels in enhancing visibility and building sustainable partnerships. She began her international development career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Guinea. This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte. The post The State of Disability in Lebanon – Pushing Limits – June 5, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Join Denny Daughters this Friday on Pushing Limits. He interviewed Pushing Limits collective member Jacob Stanton on March 21st of this year. At the time, Stanton was a U.S. citizen living in Israel. He shares his experiences living in a foreign country, teaching students English, and what life is like for people with disabilities in Israel. He also discusses a couple of side projects he has been working on. Plus, stick around until the end of the show to hear how he has readjusted to life back here in the States.  This show was hosted, edited, and produced by Denny Daughters.  The article Denny refers to can be found here For a full program transcription, click here The post Jacob’s Stories From Overseas – Pushing Limits – May 29, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Looking for work is tough for anyone, but for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the barriers can be even higher. This week on Pushing Limits, we take you inside the world of supported employment and the real impact it has on people’s lives.  Jason (left) and Josh (right) Dominick Trevethan and Josh Elwood sit down with Jason Shaw, Director of Supported Employment and Josh’s job coach at Clausen House in Oakland. Together, they talk about what Clausen House actually does, how job coaching works behind the scenes, and why meaningful employment can be life-changing with the help of Josh’s lived experience as a person with an IDD.  What does it really take to help someone land — and keep — a job? What challenges still exist for people with IDD seeking employment? And what happens when the right support finally clicks? Tune in to find out.   Plus, join us as we celebrate an anniversary of the popular phrase “Inspiration Porn” with excerpts from Stella Young’s famous TED talk explaining the term.  This program is hosted by Dominick Trevethan. It was produced and edited by Josh Elwood, Adrienne Lauby, and Dominick Trevethan. Recording assistance provided by Denny Daughters.  The post Clausen House & The Job Coach Connection – Pushing Limits – April 24, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

The disability community waits fearfully for the hammer to fall from the Big Beautiful Bill’s cuts to MediCal and other state services. Atfuluna’s Community Kitchen in Gaza is run by 20 persons with disabilities, especially hard of hearing, who were trained as cooks. That hammer falls after the mid-term elections, and, as we wait, we’re dealing with a steady drip of bad news – from new cuts in the President’s proposed 2026-2027 budget, to the disability caused by the U.S. – Israeli war on Iran.  And yet!  Disabled people aren’t just waiting around. There are many stories of resistance – like the community kitchen in Gaza run by deaf people.  Yes, we’re doing good work, helping each other, filing lawsuits and acting on the big stage of our lives.   Listen in as Pushing Limits tells the stories.   Hosted & Produced by Eddie Ytuarte and Adrienne Lauby.  For a full program transcription, click here Licensing: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/ Deaf run kitchen in Gaza Photo provided by zeroproject.org “Disability is Not Inability.” Image painted by Timothy, a local artist in Gulu, September, 2011 Flickr The post Disability in MAGA Land – Pushing Limits – April 17, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What do Django Reinhardt, Black Sabbath, 211 services, and a fiery take on the military have in common? They’re all coming your way this Friday on Pushing Limits on KPFA.  Host Eddie Ytuarte brings a fast-moving mix of current events, powerful music—from Django Reinhardt to Black Sabbath—and practical information about the 211 phone line and how it can help you access vital community resources. Plus, Eddie shares a candid message for young people with disabilities who may be considering joining the military while the Trump-Hegseth duo is trying to ruin the world.  This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte.  For a full program transcription, click here Relevant Links: Minab school attack USA Troops and Traumatic Brain Injuries 211 Django Reinhardt “Blue Rag” Melody Gardo and Charlie Haden Itzhak Perilman and Oscar Peterson  Misty – Itzhak Perlman & Oscar Peterson Black Sabbath: ‘War Pigs’ The post Music, Resources & Real Talk – Pushing Limits – April 10, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What if the reason we know so much about the Beatles isn’t just fandom… but neurodiversity?  Estevan Villegas Tune in to Pushing Limits this Friday as we explore the Beatles through the eyes of people on the autism spectrum. Unlike most musical acts, there are dozens of books and countless YouTube videos documenting everything from flights the band took to specific song takes and tiny studio details. So we have to ask: do we know so much “trivial” information about the Beatles because people connected to the band were on the spectrum and preserved every little detail?  Guiding our yellow submarine through the world of the Beatles and disability are Richard, a lifelong fan on the autism spectrum who lives in London, and Estevan Villegas, a college student with autism who attends the Think By the Bay program at Cal State East Bay. Plus, we’ll play a bunch of cool Beatles songs along the way.  This episode of Pushing Limits is hosted by Jacob Lesner-Buxton, voiced by Talia Mariano and edited by Denny Daughters. For a full program transcription, click here The post Beatles On The Spectrum – Pushing Limits – April 3, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What do you do when the hardest part of surviving a stroke isn’t the recovery—but navigating the bureaucratic systems in place meant to help you?  Every year, thousands of Californians rely on IHSS and the Department of Rehabilitation to survive, work, and live independently—but what happens when the system meant to help becomes another barrier? Kevin The Cap This week on Pushing Limits, we talk with magician Kevin The Cap, who survived a stroke and suddenly found himself navigating California’s disability services for the first time. From delayed and suspect support to meeting countless higher-ups, Kevin shares what it’s really like to depend on IHSS and DOR when the safety net doesn’t quite catch you. And just like magic, he offers practical solutions for how these programs could better serve the people who rely on them.  Tune in this Friday—because this is one magic act where the disappearing trick is the support you were promised.   This program is hosted, produced, and edited by Dominick Trevethan. Editing assistance provided by Denny Daughters.   Relevant Resources: Check out Kevin’s website!  Sign Kevin’s petition to improve IHSS!  Sign Kevin’s petition to improve the Department of Rehabilitation!  For a full program transcription, click here The post When The Safety Net Disappears – Pushing Limits – March 27, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Tell us again, how Linda McMahon got her job running the Education Department? And, how did she outlast Kristi Noem? Listen this Friday, as we struggle to find nuggets of good news among the recent horrors unleashed on the disability community by the Trump administration. Shelley Berman joins co-host Eddie Ytuarte for the March 20 edition of the Pushing Limits Political Roundup. From disabled people dead at the hands of ICE to set-backs for veterans and autistic people, we unwrap current events for you. All this, and Andrea Gibson’s poem, “MEGA Hat In the Chemo Room.” Don’t miss it! For a full program transcription, click here The post Political Wrap-Up – Pushing Limits – March 20, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What does it mean to advocate for disability rights on a global stage—and how do different countries approach disability access and inclusion? Saran Tugsjargal Join Pushing Limits this Friday as we talk with Saran Tugsjargal, a student at Rice University who identifies as neurodiverse. In high school, Saran made history as the first student commissioner on the California Advisory Commission on Special Education, where she advocated for policies that benefit students with disabilities. Today, she continues that work at Rice, serving on several disability advisory commissions and representing people with disabilities from the United States at international conferences around the world.  In the second half of the show, we’ll air Part 2 of our interview with Andra Jones Klein. Having lived in both the United States and Canada, Andra shares her experiences navigating disability in two different healthcare and social systems. She’ll also discuss what it takes to create welcoming environments for people with chemical intolerance—and why awareness and small changes can make a big difference.  This episode is hosted and edited by Denny Daughters and produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton.  Relevant Resources Link to part 1 of Andrea’s interview Andrea’s e-mail: [email protected]   Saran Tugsjargal’s social media handles:  Instagram: moonperfect Linkedin: Saran Tugsjargal  For a full program transcription, click here The post Voices for Access: From California to the World – Pushing Limits – March 13, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

A half-hour radio show providing critical coverage of disability issues and bringing the insight of the grassroots disability movement to the general public. The post Pushing Limits – February 27, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be afraid of the very foods that are supposed to nourish you because no matter what it is you eat, you get violently ill? To be told “You look healthy”, “Drink more water”, “Sounds like stress” by doctor after doctor so many times that you start to question your own sanity? To lose your job due to your inability to tell your new employer the reason why you’re sick all the time — an answer you yourself will not get for another three years? Jamie Zimmerman Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, yet it remains widely misunderstood and severely under-researched. This week on Pushing Limits, we take a deep dive into the life of Jamie Zimmerman, who was only recently diagnosed but has been living with endometriosis symptoms for most of her life. Join us as Jamie shares her journey to diagnosis, the challenges of being believed, and what living with endometriosis really looks like. She is a disability advocate, a yoga teacher, Development Director at a nonprofit organization in Portland, Maine supporting, empowering, and amplifying the voices of immigrant women, but would likely most identify with the role of writer. Her essays, some of which are about her chronic illness journey, have been published in multiple journals. Jamie holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Oregon State University, a Master of Science in Applied Gerontology, and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. This program was produced and hosted by Bonnie Elliott. Interview and recording assistance were provided by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. Editing was done by Denny Daughters and Dominick Trevethan. For a full program transcription, click here The post The Endo Game – Pushing Limits – February 13, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

In the midst of a national outcry against ICE tactics, an organization supporting people living with developmental disabilities is speaking out. The response to tactics used by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), including abuse against both immigrants and native-born residents, is growing larger and louder. Jordan Lindsey The ARC of California’s board of directors has joined in with a carefully written statement opposing harmful and discriminatory immigration enforcement practices. The statement cautions people with disabilities and their families about threats posed by ICE agents and calls for 6 immediate changes. Pushing Limits welcomes The ARC-CA executive director, Jordan Lindsey, to discuss this statement and the need to prepare state residents against continued harassment by ICE agents. Yes, people with disabilities may be even more prone to abuse than those from the non-disabled community. The ARC of California has three offices in the state to serve people with developmental disabilities. This program is produced and hosted by Eddie Ytuarte. For a full program transcription, click here The post Disability Rights & ICE: The ARC Speaks Out – Pushing Limits – February 6, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Record scratch — your favorite DJ is back on the turntables! Join Denny Daughters on Pushing Limits this Friday for another edition of Musicians With All Types of Disabilities, a spotlight on artists whose talent and impact span genres and generations. This time we feature performers connected to blindness, dyslexia, multiple sclerosis, and bulimia nervosa. Denny digs deep into his music collection to bring you a half hour of standout tracks from the 1970s through the 1990s — music, history, and disability culture all in one show. Tune in and turn it up. This program is hosted and produced by Denny Daughters. For a full program transcription, click here The post Disabled Musicians: 70’s – 90’s – Pushing Limits – January 30, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

How do new technologies, shifting laws, and global politics affect the lives of disabled people — sometimes in ways we don’t see coming? Pushing Limits continues its coverage of breaking developments in the disability community. This week, we look at the growing role of artificial intelligence in schools, state budget concerns, and new disability-related laws. Also under the microscope is the lingering impact of Trump-era policies. Plus, don’t miss a sobering look at why it can be especially dangerous to be disabled in Myanmar. This program is co-hosted by Talia Thompson Mariano and producer Eddie Ytuarte. Stories in this program with links for further exploration: 1. Teachers use AI for IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)   https://cdt.org/insights/from-personalized-to-programmed-the-use-of-generative-ai-to-develop-individualized-education-programs-for-students-with-disabilities/?ref=disabilitydebrief.org 2. Sign language in Britain https://bda.org.uk/bsl-is-not-for-sale/?ref=disabilitydebrief.org 3. Disability in Myanmar        https://www.ohchr.org/en/documents/thematic-reports/ahrc61crp1-hidden-crisis-disability-rights-post-coup-myanmar-advance 4. State summary of some legislation plus budget https://www.disabilityrightsca.org/public-policy/2025-end-of-session-wrap-up 5. State cuts disaster aid https://laist.com/news/climate-environment/state-cuts-program-for-people-with-disabilities-in-disasters-advocates-alarmed 6. Trumps attack on disability attorneys  https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/12/14/americans-disabilities-trump-budget-cuts/87686476007/ 7. Transpersons  https://dredf.org/protect-trans-rights/  8. “Life After” film For a full program transcription, click here The post Shifting Ground: Disability, Policy, and Power – Pushing Limits – January 23, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What defined disability in the headlines this past year — progress, controversy, or both? Bob Kafka This Friday, Pushing Limits looks back at some of the most talked-about moments in the disability world. From a clergyman seeking a federal lawsuit after preaching that disabled people shouldn’t marry, to the mixed bag of disability policy coming out of California’s state government. And we’ll dig into a debate that sparked plenty of opinions: should pregnant women be allowed to park in blue zones?  Join Pushing Limits for a year-end wrap-up you won’t want to miss.  This program is produced by Adrienne Lauby and hosted by Talia Mariano and Eddie Ytuarte.  Stories in this program with links for further exploration: 1. Conditions for Disabled People in Venezuela Special report on humanitarian needs of persons in situations of disability in Venezuela – July 2025 – Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) Venezuela – Disability – Expat Focus https://www.internationaldisabilityalliance.org/countries/VEN 2. Diminished Democracy is Diminished Disability Justice https://www.disabilitydebrief.org/debrief/this-should-not-be-happening/ 3. Should Pregnant Women Use Disabled Parking https://www.handicapmd.com/handicap-parking-blog/legal-rights-for-pregnant-women-seeking-disabled-parking-permits 4. ICE Raid near Day Program for Developmentally Disabled Adults https://thearcca.org/ice-raid-near-the-arc-of-ventura-county-day-program-in-oxnard-raises-urgent-concerns-for-disability-safety/ 5. Federal court nominee says disabled people should not marry https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/12/indiana-southern-district-federal-judge-nominee-justin-olson-disabled-people-marriage-benefits-cancellation-medicaid-ssi/ 6. Autistic Barbie Doll https://www.timesnownews.com/health/why-mattels-first-ever-barbie-with-autism-is-sparking-global-conversation-on-inclusion-article-153439447 7. Alice Wong and Bob Kafka – Rest In Power Disability Vulnerability: https://disabilityvisibilityproject.com/book/disability-vulnerability-spring-2026/ https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/nov/15/alice-wong-disability-rights-activist-dies-aged-51 https://nursing.ucsf.edu/news/memory-alice-wong-disability-rights-activist-writer-and-ucsf-changemaker https://time.com/7336976/disability-justice-alice-wong/ Pushing Limits Interview with Alice Wong https://kpfa.org/episode/pushing-limits-july-15-2016/ Personal story ~ meeting Bob Kafka:  https://adapt.org/1984-washington-bob-kafka/ Obituary:  https://www.kut.org/politics/2025-12-29/bob-kafka-austin-disability-rights-advocate-dies-tx Bob’s home chapter of ADAPT celebrates his passing: https://adaptoftexas.org/ Pushing Limits interview with Bob Kafka prior to the passage of Obama Care (Affordable Care Act):   https://kpfa.org/episode/58204/ 8.  2025 State wrap-up–new laws and budget 2025 End of Session Wrap Up | Disability Rights California 9. Teachers use AI for IEPs (Individualized Education Programs)  https://cdt.org/insights/from-personalized-to-programmed-the-use-of-generative-ai-to-develop-individualized-education-programs-for-students-with-disabilities/?ref=disabilitydebrief.org 10. Sign Language Problems with AI From the British Deaf Association though Disability Debrief https://bda.org.uk/bsl-is-not-for-sale/?ref=disabilitydebrief.org 11. “Life After,” movie. A Disabled Filmmaker Looks at Physician-Assisted Suicide (Free) Independent Lens, PBS https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/life-after/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCH-51YqMMs For a transcription of the entire program, click here Alice Wong The post Political Wrap-Up – Pushing Limits – January 16, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What happens when disabled artists, activists, and scholars finally have a space of their own? Pushing Limits radio presents its first program featuring the San Francisco Disability Cultural Center. This new venue will host a wide range of activities—from art exhibits and “café crip check-ins” to a collective quilt and a space for disabled and disgruntled academics to air it all out. Plus, the renowned Superfest Disabled Film Festival is now under the auspices of the San Francisco Disability Cultural Center, marking a major new chapter for disability culture in the Bay Area. Tune in so you don’t miss any details! This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte. For a transcription of the entire program, click here The post Claiming Space: SF Disability Cultural Center – Pushing Limits – January 9, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

Andrea Jones Klein What happens when the fight for justice isn’t accessible to everyone — even the people doing the organizing? And how often do we overlook disabilities we can’t see, but that profoundly shape who gets to show up? Join Pushing Limits this Friday as we talk with social justice organizer Andrea Jones Klein. For more than five years, Andrea has worked at the intersections of climate justice, political liberation, and health equity — all while living with chemical intolerance. In this conversation, Andrea discusses the ableism she encounters in organizing spaces, explains what chemical intolerance is, and shares simple, practical steps people can take to make public spaces more accessible for those with her disability. To get in contact with Andrea, you can e-mail her at [email protected] This program was produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. It was hosted and edited by Dominick Trevethan. For a full transcription of this program, click here The post Social Justice and Ableism – Pushing Limits – January 2, 2026 appeared first on KPFA.

What really happened behind the scenes at Pushing Limits in 2025? In our end-of-the-year special, host Denny Daughters turns the questions on the Pushing Limits crew themselves. What did they love about this year? What did they learn? And what are they hoping for in the year to come? But that’s not all! Don’t miss the montage of all the guests from last year. Plus, hidden in this special is a secret about how the year end montage was made—something we’ve never shared before. Laugh, reflect, and uncover what you weren’t supposed to know. We’ll see you real soon! This program was hosted and produced (all year long) by Denny Daughters. The post 2025 in Review – Pushing Limits – December 26, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

How do we build a city where seniors and disabled people don’t just survive, but actually thrive? And what does it take for an organization to stay ahead of the curve when so many in our community are struggling for housing, transportation, and basic dignity? Shaya French Join Pushing Limits as we sit down with Shaya French, Director of Organizing for Senior and Disability Action — a long-standing, progressive San Francisco organization often a step ahead of others serving the disability community. We’ll explore SDA’s work on housing, transportation, health care, and its innovative anti-ICE organizing efforts. And honestly… you’ve got to appreciate an organization whose goals include “to be creative and have fun.” Tune in for a lively and informative conversation. If you’d like more info about Shaya and SDA, check out their website here This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte. The post Organizing for Access – Senior and Disability Action – Pushing Limits – December 5, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

How accessible is your daily commute, really? And when public transportation falls short, who’s out there fighting to fix it? Join us on this week’s Pushing Limits as Denny Daughters interviews Warren Cushman, a systems change advocate with Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL) in Hayward. Warren shares the work he’s doing with the Metropolitan Transportation Commission, as well as his advocacy with AC Transit and BART. We also dive into his efforts around housing justice and mental health support—two issues deeply intertwined with disability rights. This show was hosted and edited by Denny Daughters. For more information, contact CRIL at (510) 881-5743 or visit crilhayward.org. You can reach Warren directly at [email protected] The post Disability Advocacy at the Local Level – Pushing Limits – November 28, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

For most people, “the happiest place on earth” means Disneyland. But for the kids who attend Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital’s annual Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp, true magic happens somewhere else entirely—on the courts, fields, and pool deck of UC Santa Barbara’s Recreation Center. Cynthia Muñoz This week on Pushing Limits, we’re joined by counselors Cynthia Muñoz, who lives with cerebral palsy spastic diplegia, and Brian Rathfelder, who lives with a spinal cord injury. They share what it’s like to mentor kids navigating the same challenges they once faced, the behind-the-scenes hustle of creating a fully adaptive, sport-oriented day camp, and the unforgettable moments that make this community feel like a second family. Tune in to discover why this one-week camp leaves a lifelong impact on everyone who rolls through its doors. This program is hosted, edited, and produced by Dominick Trevethan. Brian & Campers The post Behind The Magic: Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp – Pushing Limits – November 21, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

For many veterans, the hardest fight begins when they come home—navigating disability, trauma, and a system that too often turns its back on them. For more than half a century, Swords to Plowshares has been serving and uplifting military veterans across the Bay Area. What began as a small grassroots effort to support Vietnam veterans—many of them living with disabilities and facing rejection from traditional institutions like the Veterans Administration—has grown into one of the nation’s leading veteran service organizations. Elena Kim This week on Pushing Limits, we spotlight Swords to Plowshares, a vital force for veteran rights and disability justice. Tune in as we explore their powerful history, ongoing advocacy, and how they continue to help veterans rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose with the help of Elena Kim, Chief Operating Officer. As the former City of San Francisco’s Director of Veterans Services, human intelligence collector from 2005-2010 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Master Degree holder in Legislative Affairs, Elena oversees Swords to Plowshares‘ operations and programs. This program is hosted and produced by Eddie Ytuarte.   The below image is from: https://www.flickr.com/people/37922399@N05 California Disabled Vets. December 2010 from Virginia State Parks staff The post 50 Years Strong: Swords to Plowshares – Pushing Limits – November 14, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Seniors and people with disabilities both advocate for home care, housing, and transportation but, for decades, only lonely voices urged the two groups to collaborate. . . until now! Our guests this Friday, Christina Mills and Cynde Soto, talk about the factors that contributed to the historical division between senior and disability advocates as well as current efforts to build solidarity between both groups. Christina is the director of the California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A). Her organization works to educate government leaders on aging and disability-related policy and to advocate for a stronger social safety net. Cynde is a board member of the Long Beach chapter of the Gray Panthers. Since 1974, the chapter has advocated for social and economic justice for those with disabilities and older adults. Also, we will feature information about a free online drum circle for those with disabilities and allies. It will be on Friday, December 5th, at 1 PST on Zoom. To sign up, email [email protected] This episode of Pushing Limits is hosted and edited by Denny Daughters. It was written and produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. Relevant Resources Long Beach Gray Panthers California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) The post Partnership Between Senior and Disability Advocates – Pushing Limits – November 7, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

There’s been a haunting of political developments this month that directly impact the disability community—many deeply concerning. On this week’s Pushing Limits, co-producers Adrienne Lauby and Eddie Ytuarte break down the latest news and what it means for people living with disabilities nationwide. From more troubling moves by Trump to the silence of major disability organizations on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, we dig into what’s being said—and what isn’t (insert Michael Jackson ”Thriller” laugh)! This program is hosted and produced by Adrienne Lauby and Eddie Ytuarte. The post Political Wrap-Up – Pushing Limits – October 31, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 15 million people worldwide are living with a spinal cord injury (SCI). These injuries are often sudden and life-changing—leaving many newly injured individuals overwhelmed and searching for support. Andrew Skinner On this week’s episode of Pushing Limits, we speak with Andrew Skinner, a man who decided to make that transition—from able-bodied to living with a spinal cord injury—a little easier for others traveling the same path. After his own injury in 2004, Andrew recognized a huge need for accessible equipment and resources for those newly injured. What began as a small effort grew into the Triumph Foundation, now the largest disability-support nonprofit in Southern California. Since its founding in 2008, Triumph has impacted the lives of over 10,000 individuals with disabilities and provided more than $2 million in assistance to people facing financial hardship or gaps in medical coverage. Tune in to hear Andrew’s story, the origins of Triumph Foundation, and how his work continues to empower the disability community today. This program is hosted and produced by Bonnie Elliott. It was edited by Denny Daughters and Jacob Stanton. Additionally, recording assistance was provided by Jacob Lesner-Buxton. The post ”Triumph“ for Spinal Cord Injured – Pushing Limits – October 24, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Did you know that between 150 and 300 people died weekly from COVID during the summer of 2025 in the U.S.? If you were watching the mainstream media or getting news from the White House, this data may surprise you. According to them, COVID is old news and in the rearview mirror of history. However, today’s guest and disability advocate Polly Garcia is committed to educating their community about the virus. In the interview, she will address how the disability community has been impacted by COVID and the steps organizations can take to begin to address the community trauma that came with the pandemic. Polly has worked at the Centers for Disease Control and with various communities throughout the United States on issues related to public health. She is also an artist and mindfulness practitioner, who is getting her master’s in Negotiation, Conflict Resolution, & Peacebuilding. Plus, stick around to the end to hear published poetry from M. S. Marquart. This episode of Pushing Limits is produced by Jacob Lesner-Buxton and hosted and edited by Dominick Trevethan. Links to information about today’s guests, information about COVID, and other public health issues created by Polly: https://new.express.adobe.com/webpage/i8rSk4bmpsY6E Polly’s company – Cosmovisión LLC https://www.pollygarcia.com/ Poems by M. S. Marquart https://sites.google.com/view/msmarquart If you’d like to join Jacob’s monthly zoom meeting, Nothing Without Us, please reach out to him at [email protected] The post Telling the Truth about COVID = Act of Resistance – Pushing Limits – October 17, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.

Executive actions, budget cuts, layoffs, and legislation—all within the first six months of the Trump administration—have severely curtailed disability rights and services, including access to Medicaid and the right to a free, appropriate public education. That’s the finding of a recent report by the Center for American Progress, authored by Casey Doherty and Mia Ives-Rublee—who will be our live guests on Pushing Limits this week. Co-producer and host Eddie Ytuarte comments: “The Trump regime is as intent on going after the disability community as it is on targeting non-White communities, universities, immigrants, and politically progressive people and organizations.” Don’t miss the rest of this important report reveal and discussion. This program is produced and hosted by Eddie Ytuarte. The post First Six Months – Lasting Damage – Pushing Limits – September 19, 2025 appeared first on KPFA.