World Accessibility Day: Inclusion Takes Flight

On this special episode of the Special Chronicles Podcast, released in honor of World Accessibility Day on May 21, 2026, host Daniel Smrokowski presents a compelling conversation recorded live at the VMS Professionals 2023 Conference. Daniel sits down with Captain Jill Mills of United Airlines for an in‑depth discussion on what true accessibility and inclusion look like in practice. Together, they trace the growing momentum of the Inclusion Revolution, from the groundbreaking May 2023 British Vogue cover to new disability representation statistics and United’s first‑ever Accessibility Showcase. Listeners gain insight into the role of a Special Olympics Service Ambassador (SOSA), the impact of the SOSA program across United Airlines, and Captain Mills’ personal reflections on working alongside the SOSA team. The conversation then expands into DEI best practices, highlighting the partnership between United Airlines and Special Olympics and the leadership commitment driving accessibility forward. The episode concludes with actionable takeaways for organizations: the importance of training, the necessity of including the disability community, and how to build a sustainable plan that supports employees from hiring through long‑term retention. Recorded on May 11, 2023, in Chicago, this episode offers a thoughtful, forward‑looking exploration of accessibility, representation, and inclusive workplace culture. Episode 836 ShowNotes & Links 🎧 Follow the Special Chronicles Podcast wherever you get your podcasts ⭐ Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite app 📺 Watch full episodes (video) on YouTube ❤️ Support the mission of Special Chronicles by donating or joining the PLUS membership 👕 Shop our ‘Disabled Voices Matter’ Merch 📱 Follow us on socials: @SpecialChronicles (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) 📰 Subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from Special Chronicles Podcast Theme Music: “It Starts With A Voice” written by Amy Wright and performed by Ben Wright, co-founders of Bitty and Beau’s Coffee. Used with permission. About The Podcast Host: Daniel Smrokowski Founder, Special Chronicles  Daniel Smrokowski is an award-winning podcaster, columnist, and disability advocate, best known as the founder and host of Special Chronicles, a groundbreaking podcast platform featuring over 800 episodes produced across 17 years. Through storytelling and journalism, Daniel amplifies the voices of people with disabilities while promoting inclusion, awareness, and social change. In recognition of his impact, he is a recipient of the Matthew Freeman Award for Social Justice for his efforts through media to give people with disabilities a voice. 🔗 Read more about Daniel | 🎧 Discover Daniel’s Story – Listen here