The Martyn Sibley Show

In this episode, I share highlights from my panel at the Hotel Summit in Canary Wharf, where we discussed accessibility in hotels and the future of inclusive hospitality.Alongside Sophie Harper from Hotel Designs, Ross Calladine from VisitEngland and James Dixon-Box, the Government’s Hospitality Accessibility Ambassador, I explore the realities disabled people face when travelling and staying overnight in hotels.I also talk about an exciting new pilot at the Royal Lancaster London focused on hoists in hotels, part of a wider campaign to encourage more accessible rooms and better support for the estimated 250,000 people in the UK who require a hoist.The conversation touches on lived experience, practical solutions, tourism, inclusion and why accessible travel benefits everyone.

In this episode, I share highlights from my panel discussion on the main stage at Naidex at the NEC Birmingham, where we opened the conference with a conversation about the power of collaboration.The discussion explored disability inclusion, entrepreneurship, storytelling and social impact, including reflections on the Lilac Review and the collective work being done with organisations such as Small Business Britain, Lloyds Bank, public sector stakeholders and disabled entrepreneurs to improve opportunities for disabled founders.I also speak about why disability inclusion matters to everybody and how social media storytelling can help bridge the gap between challenges, lived experience and practical solutions.I hope you enjoy the conversation.

In this podcast episode, I share some of my moments speaking on a panel at the British Healthcare Trades Association conference in Northampton, where we explored the opportunities and challenges of artificial intelligence in healthcare, accessibility and independent living.Drawing on both lived experience and my work across disability inclusion, entrepreneurship and changemaking, I discuss how AI has the potential to improve people’s lives when it is designed inclusively and shaped by real-world experiences.It was a great conversation alongside fellow panellists, with topics ranging from innovation and assistive technology to representation, access and the future of human-centred design.I’d love to hear your thoughts on where AI could make the biggest positive difference for disabled people and wider society.

In this episode of the Purple Changemakers Podcast, I’m joined by Gavin from the Re-Action Collective and Alice, who is leading an exciting and innovative project focused on adaptive and upcycled ski clothing.We recorded this conversation just ahead of the Winter Paralympics, and it felt like the perfect moment to explore how grassroots innovation can help break down barriers in sport and society.Gavin and Alice share how they came together to collaborate on this project, which aims to take second-hand or unused ski clothing and equipment, and redesign it to meet the needs of disabled skiers and those with access requirements. From lived experience to design thinking, and from community collaboration to practical production, this is a brilliant example of how different skills and perspectives can come together to create real-world solutions.We also discuss the wider context of disability and inclusion, the gaps left by larger organisations and corporates, and how citizen-led initiatives like this can move things forward in creative and meaningful ways. While there are still challenges to solve, particularly around funding and scaling, the momentum behind this work is clear.This is a conversation about possibility, collaboration, and what can happen when people come together to design a more inclusive world.Learn more and get involved: https://www.instagram.com/un_para_ldhttps://opencollective.com/unparaldhttps://www.adaptive-as-standard.com/unparaldhttps://vimeo.com/1173782863

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Michael and Shyam, the co-founders of Advoca, for a wide-ranging conversation about healthcare, technology, and building impact at scale.We talk about their individual backgrounds, how they met, and how their shared love of technology and improving people’s lives intersected with their training as doctors. That journey led to the creation of Advoca, an app designed to help people get more from their medical appointments, by retaining key information, making sense of complex conversations with doctors or consultants, and supporting follow-up actions after appointments.In true Purple Changemaker style, we also explore the realities of the entrepreneurial startup journey, how Michael and Shyam are using AI and social media within their venture, and the broader potential for technology like this to improve healthcare experiences for people with a wide range of health conditions.If you’d like to learn more, download the app, or get in touch with the team, you can visit https://advocahealth.com/.Thanks for listening, and I hope you enjoy the conversation.

In this episode, I sit down with David, founder and CEO of OpenRoadAccess, to explore his deeply personal story, the birth of ORA, and the bold mission to transform wheelchair-accessible transport across the UK and beyond. David shares how a life-changing experience with a Motability WAV as a child sparked a lifelong awareness of the freedom transport can bring, and how his career journey through corporate consulting, and eventually founding ORA has been driven by a desire to make that freedom more equitable and accessible. We also dive into the Purple Changemaker Playbook, using the five VERIS pillars — Vision, Execution, Resilience, Influence, Sustainability - as a lens to reflect on the lessons of ORA’s growth and impact: Whether you’re a changemaker, founder, or just someone who wants to see a more inclusive world, this is a powerful conversation about systems change, soulful entrepreneurship, and unlocking mobility for everyone. 🎧 Also available on YouTube https://youtu.be/9B6mwaqxEJQ?si=WbbDdT5o0LVhcaYM 🔗 Let us know what resonated most, and check out more including the downloadable transcript here https://martynsibley.com/ https://martynsibley.com/change-makers/

In this pan Atlantic episode, I had the privilege of interviewing Danny Kurtzman, the creator and star of the groundbreaking film Good Bad Things, alongside Steve Way, the film's executive producer and a prominent advocate in the disabled creative community. The night before our conversation, my wife and I watched Good Bad Things and were profoundly moved by its authentic portrayal of disability, love, and self-acceptance. The film follows Danny, a young man with muscular dystrophy, as he navigates the complexities of online dating and personal growth. His unexpected connection with Madi, an enigmatic photographer, challenges him to embrace vulnerability and discover the unique beauty of his body. Our discussion delves into: The inspiration behind Good Bad Things: How Danny and Steve transformed personal experiences into a compelling narrative. Authentic representation: The significance of having disabled creators and lead characters in mainstream cinema. Impact on the disability community: How the film challenges societal perceptions and fosters inclusivity. Universal themes: Exploring the film's messages that resonate with both disabled and non-disabled audiences. This insightful conversation offers a deep dive into the making of Good Bad Things and its broader implications for representation in media. Whether you're passionate about inclusive storytelling or simply love compelling cinema, this episode is a must-watch. Don't forget to like, comment, and share to support authentic storytelling in film!

In this episode, I’m joined by David Chapman, the visionary behind Thumb Soldiers, a company revolutionising the gaming world with adaptions for controllers for disabled gamers. 🎮✨ We dive into: The story behind Thumb Soldiers and how David came up with the idea. Why accessible gaming is crucial for the disabled community. How adapted controllers empower disabled players to enjoy gaming fully. The challenges and triumphs of scaling Thumb Soldiers and creating a more inclusive gaming industry. David’s journey is an inspiring example of how innovation and passion can break barriers, opening up a world of possibilities for disabled people. Whether you're a gamer, an advocate for inclusion, or just someone curious about how technology can change lives, this episode is packed with insights. Tune in to discover how accessible gaming is reshaping the industry and bringing the joy of play to everyone. 🌟 Links & Resources: Visit Thumb Soldiers: https://thumbsoldiers.com/ Learn more about adapted controllers and their impact. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories of innovation and inclusion! #AccessibleGaming #DisabilityInclusion #ThumbSoldiers #InclusiveTech #GamingForAll

In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Tanvi Vyas, a dedicated advocate and Disability Equality Consultant, to discuss her incredible work in the disability inclusion space. Tanvi, who is a full-time powerchair user, shares her insights on accessible train travel—a key focus of our current Purple Collective campaign. We also dive into her recent honor from the King, being awarded an MBE for her services to transport. Tanvi's passion and dedication to creating a more inclusive transportation system shine through in our conversation. Join us as we explore the challenges and advancements in accessible travel and celebrate the progress being made towards a more inclusive future. Don't miss this fantastic episode!

In this compelling episode, I sit down with the remarkable Dr. Mark Esho MBE, an entrepreneur, author, and disability advocate. Mark's journey from living with polio to becoming a successful business owner and inspirational figure is nothing short of extraordinary. What you'll learn in this episode: - Living with Polio: How Mark navigated personal and business life while living with polio. - Entrepreneurial Journey: Insights into Mark's path to establishing multiple successful businesses. - Resilience and Determination: The mindset and strategies that helped Mark overcome societal barriers and discrimination. - Disability Advocacy: Mark's work in promoting disability inclusion and empowering others. Mark's story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the impact one person can have on the world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an advocate for disability rights, or simply looking for a dose of positivity, this episode is for you. Subscribe here for more inspiring interviews and content Follow Dr. Mark Esho MBE: - Mark's Website (https://www.markesho.co.uk/) - Mark's LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/markesho/) Follow Me: - Martyn's Website (https://martynsibley.com/) - Martyn's LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/martyn-sibley-1227b411/) - Martyn's Twitter (https://twitter.com/martynsibley) - Martyn's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/martynsibley/) Don't forget to like, comment, and share this video if you found it interesting. Hit the subscribe button and the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes. #Podcast #Interview #DrMarkEsho #Entrepreneurship #Resilience #DisabilityInclusion #Inspiration #Motivation

Celia Chartres-Aris is a Disabled Founder and Investor, a multi-award winning campaigner and lobbyist, researcher and policy designer, advocating for the improvement of disability equity and accessibility inclusivity. Celia has founded a several disabled-led organisations focused on the development and advancement of policy, ensuring that disabled people are at the heart of legislation and consultation. This year Celia has been named on The Global Diversity Leaders list and is featured on the 100 most influential disabled people list in the UK, as the 3rd most influential Disabled person changing law and policy. As an entrepreneur, Celia is the Co-founder of the first policy unit in the UK which focuses on putting disability at the heart of Westminster, and Access2Funding which brings together the global investment market and is implementing inclusive practices across the deal flow, which is significantly improving opportunities and participation for disabled entrepreneurs. Celia works across the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors with organisations, charities and the Government, advocating, designing new legislation and policies, and amending existing legislation and policies, for the improved equity of representation, inclusivity, accessibility, participation and opportunities for disabled people. Over the years this has included working with brands such as; Cola, Apple and Linkedin, and partnering with national and international Governmental bodies such as; The House of Lords, The European Union, The United Nations, Westminster and Downing Street. Passionate about politics, policy and representation, Celia is actively involved with a number of organisations and campaigns aimed at increasing the democratic elected representation of disabled people at both local and national levels of policy creation. Alongside being an advocate for inclusive law and policy, Celia is also an active campaigner for disability rights. Celia is an established consultant, host, speaker and educator on diversity, intersectionality and inclusion, regularly speaking to and advising organisations and charities around the world, such as; Virgin, Amazon, BHF and British Banking. As an investor, Celia has supported and guided countless disabled led entrepreneurs, and sits on a number of organisational boards as a champion for inclusion and accessibility. The work Celia has done has been internationally recognised by organisations such as Forbes, The Financial Times, Metro and BBC. Celia was born with multiple disabilities as a result of a genetic condition; Loeys-Dietz Syndrome/Marfans, currently due to multiple organ-failure she lives with a permanent central line in her chest receiving daily blood infusions and complete artificial nutrition. Celia has never known her life without her disability, and takes pride in her disabled identity, working hard to break down systematic ableism, discrimination, and archaic stereotypes about the talents, potential, and ability of disabled people.

Today I get to share my conversation with the brilliant Keely Cat-Wells who is a Disability Rights Advocate and CEO of Making Space. She founded her first company in hospital, which later became C Talent, a talent agency that represents Disabled artists, reshaping perceptions of disability. C Talent was acquired in 2022, marking a significant milestone for disability within the creative industries. Keely is now the founder & CEO of Making Space, a talent acquisition and learning platform that develops accessible pathways to employment and career advancement through employer-backed courses for Disabled people. Notably securing partnerships with NBCUniversal, Netflix and Amazon. Under the Making Space umbrella is Making Space Media, a division that creates film and TV content amplifying disabled narratives. Making Space Media secured a first-look deal with Reese Witherspoons, Hello Sunshine. Keely is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree, Presidential Leadership Scholar, AdWeek Young Influential and Diana Award Winner.

I hope you're all feeling the purple power today! 💜 I'm thrilled to share the latest edition of my newsletter and Martyn Sibley Show podcast, where we're diving into the vital topics of climate and disability activism and how they can work together hand in hand. 🌍♿️ For this episode, I had the immense pleasure of hosting the brilliant Áine Kelly as my guest. Áine is a proud disabled storyteller, consultant, and campaigner, whose work centers on disability, climate, and migration. Their perspective is so insightful, and I couldn't think of a better person to shed light on the powerful intersection of these two essential movements. Based in Norway, Áine originally hails from the beautiful land of Aotearoa, New Zealand. 🇳🇴🇳🇿 They are deeply passionate about creating positive change and fostering greater understanding between the climate and disability communities. Tune in to this episode to hear Áine's inspiring journey, as they share their expertise and experiences, weaving a tapestry of knowledge and compassion that empowers us all to take meaningful action. Together, let's amplify the voices of those working tirelessly at this crucial intersection of climate and disability activism. Remember, it's by joining hands and hearts that we can bring about a more inclusive and sustainable world. Let's embrace our purple power and make a difference, one step at a time! 💪💜 You can find the transcript of this episode on my website here https://martynsibley.com/2023/07/climate-and-disability-activism-bridging-two-important-worlds/

Purple Power is really motoring now! Encompassing self development, disruptive politics, and innovative business ideas - all for disability inclusion! With Purple Goat becoming the vehicle for change with global business. Purple Ventures being my outlet to advise disability companies. Purple Power is an outlet for Changemakers and Leaders. In the spirit of all this clarity and progress. I got to sit down with a fellow author and changemaker, Jon Alexander, to explore together what a disability citizen assembly might look like. First we hear from Jon about his book 'citizens' and why he shared his ideas around a new story to empower all people. But particularly marginalised and disempowered people. Through this deeply impactful model and language we explore how it could apply to the disability rights movement. Particularly in a new and different world requiring some fresh ideas on what activism is and could become. We discussed this concept very much in real time. Starting a conversation. Providing you with a platform to share ideas or even ask further questions for us to explore another time. Please do let us know what you think about the concepts, a disability assembly and your views on social activism (entrepreneurship and changemaking).

In the second episode of a two part focus on personal development as a powerful tool for disability inclusion, I sit down with my embodiment and leadership coach David Brown.   In this episode we discuss how sometimes in life we need to reassess our personal values and beliefs, or at least certain learned behaviours, to move forward with better health, joy and fulfillment. Which brings us to explanations on what embodiment means for us both, ways to access them, and David kindly shares a practice near the end of our chat.  In this episode we discuss how sometimes in life we need to reassess our personal values and beliefs, or at least certain learned behaviours, to move forward with better health, joy and fulfillment. Which brings us to explanations on what embodiment means for us both, ways to access them, and David kindly shares a practice near the end of our chat.   You can learn more about David, his coaching, these topics and more at www.potentialitycoaching.co.uk and on this archetypes facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/archetypesacademyYou can learn more about David, his coaching, these topics and more at www.potentialitycoaching.co.uk and on this archetypes facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/archetypesacademy

As a wheelchair user, disability activist and social entrepreneur I'm unwavering in these two perspectives - I didn't choose to be born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and I can be more included in society by designing a barrier free world (no steps, no discrimination, no red tape). However theres another part of my personal and professional journey that's important to discuss. Personal development/growth/accountability. With the above two points caveated, I've always looked for what I have control and influence over. Both for me, and also the disability community. This focus has taken me through countless books, podcasts, documentaries, courses and events. You may remember my posts on attending Mindvalley university a few years back around this perspective too. Through and since the pandemic I've had some really challenging times. As we all have. It's been introspection, contemplation and owning my sh*t that's got me through it. I can honestly say I've learned and grown more than ever the past couple of years. When going on such a journey, and to reap such rewards, its helpful to have tools and/or a guide. One tool and guide I found recently was the Gene Keys and teachings of Richard Rudd. To dive in to the what, where, when, why, how I was lucky enough to interview Richard on my podcast. Have a listen, let me know your thoughts, and to get your own Gene Keys profile (or learn more and check out the courses) head here https://genekeys.com/ref/1866/.

In this very special episode I sit down with my mum and discuss my Spinal Muscular Atrophy diagnosis, growing up, teenage mischief, holidays and mums general mindset in life

On the hottest day ever in the world (well kind of) we sit in our garden and discuss all sorts of random topics like the James Webb Telescope, metaverse technology, how it might effect human connection and Sunny joins at the end for a cuddle

Martyn and his partner Kasia reflect on the past couple of years. Including health challenges, mental health anxieties, coping mechanisms, their career progress, a big trip to Poland, and some newer perspectives from this rather unusual couple of years 

After a few weeks of daily podcasting my disabled founders journal, I've decided to lower the tempo. With the Daily Sib livestream and lockdown lifting, it felt right to create the podcast version weekly for the time being

After chatting with a fellow disabled entrepreneur on the Daily Sib earlier, today's episode is on the importance of finding your tribe

A virtual role model and social media influencer called Gary Vaynerchuk (Gary Vee) spoke of how business is his sport. It really resonated with me too. Today I share why.

After those rocky couple of weeks I described in my written blog, and summarising the whole thing here, it's time to press on with positive, fun and happy times again

After a few days off with the Disabled Founders Journal I have a confession to make...

A rally call to complete our Disability Horizons survey on how you're feeling over Covid19 and lockdown changes. Wrapped up in a general point on the importance to always listen and learn from your community

If you missed todays Daily Sib, go check out Shani Dhanda and her LinkedIn story! Plus a lot more. She's amazing. Also in this episode I discuss the need to celebrate your successes. For you and for others to understand your business value

A big one today! I discuss changing our relationship with finances, money and selling. From various courses and seminars with Mindvalley I made progress over the years. As always in life, we have to do the self work first, to then change the world for others!

I was proper tired on Friday. Fortunately I didn't need to work this weekend and got a much needed rest. I'm feeling amazing today. Plus I got my chair totally back in to a comfortable position. Just need the car fixed now

I share our Friday ritual of sharing how our week felt, how each part of the business is progressing, and what our weekend plans are. It's becoming my favourite part of the week. Go Purple Goat!

A quick one tonight on working with clients in different time zones, in particular to my evening - the USA! Interesting balance of new cool clients and striking that all important Work-Life balance

The end of the month yesterday gave me a great way to gamify our client sales process. How do you gamify your work goals?

My chair was damaged by my dog. Seriously. So today I discuss getting through the discomfort and taking time to get independence fixed. I'm back up n running again you'll pleased to hear

In going through today's event's I touch upon representation in politics and business partnerships that work for everyone. Was a really energised and productive after a much needed weekend rest

A very specific insight today about the power of listening. While entrepreneurs are always 'selling' in some way, I've been seeing the power and win:win in truly listening in business development settings. Do let me know your thoughts on the subject.

In todays episode I share my thoughts on my preferences and the balance for businesses between conversations and administration. By that I mean admin tasks and not bankruptcy administration!

Today Chris and I created a slide deck for a client pitch. Between our physical disability and our differing tech limitations, we encountered a few challenges. Together we made it a funny and productive afternoon!

After speaking to Thiago from Passion4Social on my Daily Sib livestream, I wanted to share my thoughts on the power of social enterprise to change the world

Today's tongue-in-cheek title refers to how my prediction in yesterday's episode came true. I said how constant focus and effort on the right things will lead to results. By lunchtime I'd won new business for Purple Goat! Have a great weekend all

After the thrill of launching Purple Goat, the past week has been the cold face and slog of running a new business. Today I reflect on the merits of doubling down and focussing on the right actions to maintain our growth

George Baker shared the idea behind the new Disability Union he's started on the Daily Sib today. I was so inspired I've included it today's journal podcast too

I experienced an important lesson today in a metaphorical way and a real nature way. The preparation, work, and patience in starting a fire pays off in the long run. In business and in my back garden. Here's why...

This morning I was having my wheelchair checked, serviced and new tyres put on it. Thanks to Smart Wheelchairs. Instead of feeling less productive with work, I flipped the narrative and found more productivity. Hear I explain how.

Too few people know, let alone act, that the 1.3bn disabled people in the world means a marketplace of talent and consumers for businesses. Caroline and Marianne are here to right that wrong with the Valuable 500 campaign!

Neil shares his experience and thoughts from the frontline of policy and campaigns for Disability Rights. Spanning from jobs in care, to the EHRC and now reforming social care policy

Liz and I discuss the founding story of Disability Horizons, how she became editor soon after launch, what content matters to disabled people, and how we're growing and funding this successful disability community

At the end of a long week it's ending with two fun social celebrations

A famous influencer, my business partners and a Daily Sib guest all inspired today's episode. If you have patience and perspective, every day, you will be both happy and go far

Podcast regulars join this episode together and discuss the business of inclusion, disability rights and so much general insight from their tireless work for accessibility.

I finally found a couple of hours today to look back at Purple Goats progress since launching 6 weeks ago. Execution and progress is vital. However pausing, analysing and recreating is powerful!

After an amazingly helpful meeting with Hugh Chappell of Lad Bible today, I reflect on my mentors and constant personal development