Above and Beyond - The Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast

In this episode, Anthony Frisina (he/him) and Maddy Dever (they/them) , The Autistic Rambler, dive into the reality of accessibility in Ontario following the missed 2025 barrier-free deadline. They discuss the challenges faced by the disability community, from navigating everyday barriers to advocating for meaningful change in policies and attitudes. Key topics include: 🔹 The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) progress—or lack thereof. 🔹 The role of government, businesses, and communities in creating a barrier-free world. 🔹 Strategies for effective advocacy and the importance of allyship. 🔹 Personal stories of resilience and the push for accountability in accessibility reforms. This episode is packed with insights, passion, and humor as Maddy and Anthony explore how to build a more inclusive future. 📣 Join the conversation by leaving a comment! Share your thoughts, advocacy plans, or stories on accessibility. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on new episodes. 📢 Follow us: 🌐 AboveBeyondPodcast.com 🌐 TheAutisticRambler.com https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/autisticrambler https://x.com/mattjdever Check out Maddy Dever’s other podcast at https://youtube.com/@autisticrambler  #AccessibilityMatters #DisabilityRights #InclusionNow Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Accessibility and Inclusion 03:57 - Political Landscape and Disability Advocacy 08:59 - Goals for 2025 and Beyond 12:23 - Government Accountability and Accessibility Standards 15:55 - Community Involvement and Attitude Shifts 20:28 - Building Alliances for Change 26:15 - Conclusion and Call to Action #accessibility, #inclusion, #disabilityrights, #advocacy, #Ontario, #government, #community, #barriers

In this episode of the Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler,  reflect on the transition into 2025, discussing the ongoing challenges and successes in accessibility advocacy. They emphasize the importance of recognizing positive changes while continuing to push for further improvements. The conversation covers the need for actionable advocacy, the significance of addressing attitudes towards disability, and the political landscape affecting disability rights. They also discuss expectations for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and the upcoming Canada Disability Benefit, highlighting the importance of community engagement and collaboration in driving change. Takeaways We have reached January 2025, a significant milestone. Kudos should be given when progress is made in accessibility. Advocacy requires both recognition of challenges and celebration of wins. The past 20 years have been a journey towards accessibility. Manifesting change is essential for the new year. Advocacy must involve people with disabilities in decision-making. Attitudes towards disability need to change for real progress. Political engagement is crucial for advancing disability rights. The Canada Disability Benefit is set to launch in July 2025. Community support and allyship are vital for advocacy efforts. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://anthonyfrisina.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Welcome to 2025: A New Era of Accessibility 02:20 - Kudos to Progress: Celebrating Small Wins 05:08 - Advocacy in Action: Setting Goals for Change 07:10 - Manifesting Change: New Year, New Opportunities 09:35 - Challenging Attitudes: The Key to Accessibility 12:11 - The ODSP Dilemma: Navigating Disability Benefits 15:00 - Political Landscape: Elections and Advocacy 17:30 - Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2025 #accessibility, #advocacy, #disabilityrights, #2025, #New Year resolutions, #ODSP, #CanadaDisabilityBenefit, #inclusion

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, “celebrate” the upcoming full accessibility deadline under the AODA while discussing the realities of accessibility in Ontario. They emphasize the need for urgent action, the role of allies, and the importance of autonomy and agency for individuals with disabilities. The conversation culminates in a call to action for a barrier-free future, highlighting the necessity of collaboration and accountability in achieving true accessibility. Takeaways Celebrating the milestone of full accessibility under AODA is significant. Expectations for immediate change in accessibility may be unrealistic. Urgency is needed in addressing accessibility issues, not just patience. Allies play a crucial role in advocating for accessibility. Individuals with disabilities must have autonomy and agency in decisions affecting them. The community needs to be involved in creating accessibility plans. Accountability is essential for enforcing accessibility standards. The phrase 'nothing about us without us' emphasizes the need for inclusion. An aggressive approach is necessary to address long-standing accessibility issues. The time for action is now, and collaboration is key to success. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://anthonyfrisina.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Celebrating Accessibility Milestones 03:32 - Expectations vs. Reality of Accessibility 04:38 - The Urgency for Action 07:49 - The Role of Allies in Accessibility 10:05 - The Importance of Autonomy and Agency 11:57 - Call to Action for a Barrier-Free Future #Accessibility, #Inclusion, #AODA, #DisabilityRights, #Advocacy, #Ontario, #Barrier-Free, #Autonomy, #Agency, #Allyship

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the countdown to the full implementation of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) by January 1, 2025. In looking towards Ontario after the deadline and the next phase of AODA, they emphasize the importance of accountability, realistic goal-setting, and the need for enforcement and incentives to achieve a barrier-free Ontario. The conversation highlights the significance of lived experience in shaping effective solutions and addresses the pervasive issue of ableism as a barrier to progress. The hosts call for collective action and allyship to create a more inclusive future for individuals with disabilities. Takeaways The countdown to AODA's full implementation is significant. Accountability is crucial for achieving accessibility goals. Setting realistic timelines is essential for progress. Enforcement mechanisms are needed to ensure compliance. Incentives can motivate businesses to improve accessibility. Lived experience provides valuable insights for solutions. Ableism is a major barrier to accessibility efforts. Collaboration is key to overcoming challenges. Disability rights should take precedence over heritage concerns. A barrier-free future benefits everyone. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Countdown to Accessibility: A New Era Begins 01:41 - The Need for Accountability in Accessibility 03:19 - Setting Realistic Goals for Accessibility 04:43 - The Importance of Enforcement and Incentives 08:54 - Transforming Challenges into Opportunities 11:18 - Confronting Ableism and the Path Forward #Accessibility, #AODA, #Inclusion, #Accountability, #Barrier-Free, #DisabilityRights, #LivedExperience, #Ableism, #Ontario, #LivedExpertise

In this episode, Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler,  discuss the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and its implications for achieving a barrier-free Ontario by January 1, 2025. They explore the significance of the AODA, the challenges faced in its implementation, and the importance of lived experience in advocating for disability rights. The conversation emphasizes the need for changing societal attitudes towards disability and the necessity of small, actionable changes to create a more inclusive environment. Takeaways AODA is a landmark legislation for accessibility in Ontario. The AODA has been in the making for 20 years. Canada is a signatory to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. There are five major groups under the AODA: customer service, information technology, transportation, design of public spaces, and employment. The rights of people with disabilities should be prioritized across all levels of government. Lived experience is crucial in understanding the needs of individuals with disabilities. Small changes in businesses can lead to significant improvements in accessibility. Eradicating ableism is essential for achieving true inclusion. Attitude and allyship are key components in advocating for disability rights. The conversation highlights the need for ongoing advocacy beyond 2025. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to AODA and Excitement for Change 01:25 - Understanding AODA and Its Implications 05:00 - Challenges in Disability Rights and Legislation 06:55 - The Importance of Lived Experience in Advocacy 09:34 - Building a Culture of Accommodation 10:47 - Eradicating Ableism and Promoting Equity #AODA, #Accessibility, #DisabilityRights, #Ontario, #Inclusion,#Advocacy, #Barrier-Free, #LivedExperience, #Ableism

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the importance of accessibility and inclusion in the workplace, particularly in light of the upcoming AODA regulations in Ontario. They delve into the complexities of disclosure for individuals with disabilities, the misconceptions surrounding the costs of accommodations, and share personal experiences with employment barriers. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in attitudes towards accessibility and the potential benefits of remote work for individuals with disabilities. Takeaways Disclosure is crucial for obtaining workplace accommodations. Accommodations often cost less than perceived, typically under $500. The most significant barrier is often the front door accessibility. Changing attitudes towards accommodations is essential for progress. Personal experiences highlight the fear of rejection when asking for accommodations. Remote work can significantly improve the lives of employees with disabilities. Employers can save money by accommodating existing employees rather than hiring new ones. The pandemic has proven that remote work is feasible for many roles. Understanding individual needs is key to effective accommodations. The AODA should enforce remote work options moving forward. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Accessibility and Inclusion 01:51 - Understanding Employment Disclosure for People with Disabilities 05:20 - The Cost of Accommodations and Misconceptions 08:52 - Personal Experiences with Employment and Accommodations 11:59 - The Future of Work from Home Accommodations #Accessibility, #Inclusion, #AODA, #Employment, #Disability, #Accommodations, #Disclosure, #RemoteWork, #Barriers, #Ontario

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the impending deadline for Ontario's accessibility legislation, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). They explore the concept of Universal Design, its application in education and public spaces, and the shortcomings of current building codes and accessibility standards. The conversation highlights the need for a shift towards more inclusive practices in design and policy, emphasizing that accessibility should be a fundamental consideration in all new developments. Takeaways The countdown to Ontario's barrier-free deadline is significant. Universal Design is essential for creating inclusive environments. Current standards often fall short of true accessibility. Building codes vary by province, affecting accessibility implementation. Accessibility should be integrated from the start of any project. Public venues often lack equitable accessible seating options. Invisible disabilities require consideration in accessibility planning. Incremental changes are not enough; we need comprehensive solutions. Accessibility benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities. There is a need for a cultural shift towards valuing accessibility. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Countdown to Accessibility in Ontario 00:26 - Understanding Universal Design 02:52 - The Importance of Universal Design for Learning 04:39 - Challenges in Building Codes and Standards 07:40 - Accessibility in Public Venues #Accessibility, #UniversalDesign, #AODA, #Ontario, #Inclusion, #Education, #Equity, #DisabilityRights

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler,  discuss the upcoming full accessibility goals set by the AODA for January 1, 2025. They explore the critical role of technology in enhancing accessibility for individuals with disabilities, the impact of AI on daily life and accessibility, and the ongoing equity issues in technology access. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accommodations for disabilities and the need for government standards to ensure equitable access to technology. Takeaways The AODA aims for full accessibility by January 1, 2025. Technology plays a vital role in meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities. Proper contrast and accessibility standards are essential for web content. AI has evolved to enhance accessibility and ease of use. Generative AI can save time in content creation and management. Equity in technology access remains a significant challenge. Rural areas often face greater technology access issues. Disability is an inevitability that requires accommodations. Acceptance of differences in abilities is crucial for inclusion. Government standards for technology are necessary for equitable access. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to AODA and Accessibility Goals 00:44 - The Importance of Accessible Technology 02:56 - Challenges in Technology Accessibility 06:38 - AI's Role in Enhancing Accessibility 08:41 - Equity in Technology Access for Disabilities #AODA, #accessibility, #technology, #AI, #equity, #disability, #accommodations, #inclusion

In this episode, Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, Tha Autistic Rambler, discuss the critical themes of accessibility and inclusion, particularly focusing on the design of public spaces and the implications of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). They explore the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in navigating public spaces, the inadequacies of current regulations, and the impact of online shopping on accessibility. The conversation also touches on the complexities of tipping and service fees in retail, emphasizing the need for genuine accessibility rather than mere accommodations. Takeaways Accessibility is about equitable access to public spaces. True accessibility includes the ability to navigate and use facilities. The design of public spaces often fails to meet accessibility standards. Accommodations alone do not equate to true accessibility. The AODA has not effectively created an inclusive environment. Online shopping can create additional barriers for people with disabilities. Tipping practices in retail often do not benefit the service staff. Government actions can unintentionally hinder accessibility efforts. Public spaces must be designed with all disabilities in mind. Awareness and advocacy are crucial for improving accessibility. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Accessibility and Inclusion 01:06 - The Importance of Public Space Design 02:48 - Challenges in Accessibility for Diverse Disabilities 05:57 - The Role of AODA in Accessibility 09:13 - The Impact of Online Ordering on Accessibility 12:29 - The Misconceptions of Tipping in Retail #Accessibility, #Inclusion, #AODA, #PublicSpaces, #DisabilityRights, #Tipping, #Barriers

In this conversation, Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the importance of allyship in the context of accessibility for people with disabilities. They emphasize the need for genuine listening and collaboration with individuals who have lived experiences of disability. The discussion highlights real-world examples of effective allyship, the consequences of inadequate accessibility standards, and the necessity of including disabled voices in decision-making processes to create a more inclusive society. Takeaways Allyship starts with listening to people with disabilities. Nothing about us without us is a key principle. Effective allyship involves co-designing solutions with disabled individuals. Accessibility should go beyond minimum standards. Real-world examples show the impact of genuine inclusion. Consequences of choices can unintentionally disable people. Inclusion benefits everyone, not just those with disabilities. Feedback from disabled individuals should be compensated equitably. The City of Toronto's approach is a model for others. Barriers must be prioritized based on the needs of the community. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our new website https://abovebeyondpodcast.ca And our individual websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Accessibility and Allyship 02:57 - The Importance of Listening in Allyship 05:30 - Real-World Examples of Effective Allyship 08:12 - Consequences of Accessibility Standards 10:42 - The Economic Impact of Inclusion #accessibility, #allyship, #disabilityrights, #inclusion, #AODA,#barriers, #livedexperience

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the upcoming full accessibility of the AODA and the various barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. They emphasize the importance of changing attitudes and language surrounding disability, highlighting that disability is a universal experience that can affect anyone. The conversation delves into the physical barriers that exist and the need for accommodations, as well as the significance of prioritizing accessibility in society. The hosts conclude by addressing the impact of language on perception and the need for a shift in how individuals with disabilities are treated. Takeaways The first barrier faced by individuals with disabilities is often the attitude barrier. Changing the language we use about disability can help shift perspectives. Disability is a fact of life that affects many people. Attitudes and agency are crucial in creating an inclusive environment. Physical barriers can be mitigated through proper accommodations. Accessibility should be prioritized for everyone, not just a select few. The word 'special' can carry negative connotations and should be reconsidered. Disability can affect anyone, regardless of demographics. Proactive measures are needed to address accessibility issues. Changing societal attitudes can lead to a better quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Accessibility and Inclusion 01:34 - The Attitude Barrier 03:12 - Changing Language and Perspectives 05:16 - Understanding Disability and Society 07:03 - Physical Barriers and Accommodations 08:52 - Prioritizing Accessibility 09:58 - The Impact of Language on Perception #Accessibility, #Inclusion, #AODA, #Disability, #Attitude #Barrier, #Advocacy, #PhysicalBarriers

In this episode of Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the importance of autonomy, consent, and respect for individuals with disabilities. They explore the challenges faced in achieving true accessibility and the need for individuals to have control over their own lives. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding individual needs and fostering allyship within the disability community. Takeaways Accessibility is a journey with many challenges. Autonomy is a fundamental human right. Consent is often overlooked for people with disabilities. Independence and autonomy are not the same. Respecting individual needs is crucial for true inclusion. We must listen to the voices of those with disabilities. Preconceived notions about disabilities can hinder progress. Investing time in understanding individuals is essential. We need to presume competence in people with disabilities. Allyship is vital in advocating for disability rights. Follow us on Social Media at https://fb.com/aboveandbeyond.anthonyfrisina https://x.com/anthony_frisina https://fb.com/autisticrambler https://instagram.com/mattjdever https://x.com/mattjdever And our websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com Chapters 00:00 - Celebrating Accessibility Progress in Ontario 02:23 - Understanding Autonomy and Its Importance 04:33 - Consent and the Right to Autonomy 07:12 - Respecting Individual Needs and Presuming Competence #Accessibility, #Inclusion, #Autonomy, #Consent, #DisabilityRights, #AODA, #Ontario, #Allyship, #Independence, #QualityOfLife

In this episode of the Above and Beyond the Accessibility and Inclusion Podcast, hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, discuss the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in Ontario, particularly in relation to the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). They share personal experiences regarding accessibility in their communities, the impact of winter weather on mobility, and the need for improved transportation services. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the desire for a barrier-free environment. Follow us on our websites https://aboveandbeyond.ca https://autisticrambler.com AODA, accessibility, inclusion, transportation, community engagement, disability rights, Ontario, barriers, snow clearing, wheelchair users

Join Co-hosts Anthony Frisina and Maddy Dever, The Autistic Rambler, as they have a conversation on this 12th Day of Accessibility for Ontarians With Disabilities Act (AODA) that explores the themes of disability awareness, the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, the role of community support, and future directions in disability rights. They share the need for the pursuit of rights and inclusion. Join us these last days of 2024 as we sarcastically countdown until AODA declares us to be a barrier-free Ontario on January 1 2025!