Disability Empowerment Now

In this raw and essential conversation, host Keith Murfee- DeConcini sits down with poet and author Jessica MacLean. Jessica shares her lifelong journey navigating Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and spina bifida occulta—invisible conditions that affect every system in her body. From experiencing her first migraine at age seven to surviving a literal broken back caused by a simple change in position, Jessica details the profound physical toll of living with a tissue connectivity disorder. The discussion takes a harrowing turn as Jessica recounts her recent experience being "wrongfully Titled" (Title 36), a legal process that stripped her of her rights and placed her in a psychiatric facility ill-equipped to handle her complex medical needs. We explore the dangerous gap between mental health protocols and physical disability awareness, the trauma of medical institutionalization, and how the "positive vibes only" expectation from society ignores the reality of chronic suffering. Despite the systemic failures and constant pain, Jessica shares how she finds sanctuary in the creative community of Prescott, Arizona—using poetry, music, and the wildlife in her yard to find "wild care where there is no cure."

In this episode, host Keith Murfee Deconcini welcomes the "dynamic duo of children's health care," Jared Perkins and Gemma Thomitz, from the Children's Clinics in Tucson, Arizona. Jared and Gemma detail the clinic's evolution from a 1940s polio clinic into a cutting-edge Multi-Specialty Interdisciplinary Clinic (MSIC)—a rare model where comprehensive care, primary care, and Arizona's largest pediatric rehab program are all offered under one roof.

Season 4 Bonus Episode 6 Jasmine Singh is the Bestselling Author of “Saved By Depeche Mode: An Epic Journey of Healing & Remission Through Music.” After spending over 20 fulfilling years in a successful sales career—and living with a disability for more than 40 years— she shifted her focus to healing in all areas of her life: physical, emotional and spiritual. This is the second time she has required the support of Social Security Disability to give her body the time and space it needed to recover and rebuild. She has undergone 36 surgeries in the last 30 years, each […]

Season 4 Bonus Episode with Alaina Morin Part 2 Keith is a huge fan of Depeche Mode and along with superfan Alaina Morin, they discuss the genius that is their music and the geniuses behind their music. They go through the band’s albums and discuss the cultural importance of their work. Alaina Morin works with adults with intellectual disabilities through Community Case Management and as an Ed Technology in special education. In her spare time Alaina enjoys puzzling, concerts, traveling, creating ideas for stories and long discussions about anything. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 […]

Season 4 Bonus episode 2 Part 2 Dr. Yvette Pegues is renowned for her captivating and insightful presentations that resonate with diverse audiences. Her ability to connect with audiences through authentic storytelling and evidence-based insights makes her a sought-after speaker at conferences, corporate events, and community gatherings. As a keynote speaker, she addresses critical topics such as: Inclusive Innovation and Accessibility, Exploring how technology and innovative solutions can bridge gaps and enhance the lives of people with disabilities, Disability Advocacy in the Workplace, Navigating Life Post-Rehabilitation and Empowering Disabled Communities through Technology. Keith and Dr. Pegues talk about her journey […]

Cydian Kauffman works at Pure Water Northwest and is an expert in Water. His work has always been about finding solutions that benefit everyone involved, whether through sales growth, operational improvement, or conflict resolution. Keith and Cydian talk about the importance of water, water conservation and water accessibility. They discuss a variety of topics surrounding water conservation. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.

Steven Verdile works at Corporate Communications at NBCUniversal and is the Editor-in-Chief at The Squeaky Wheel. Based in NYC, Steven’s work includes copy-writing, humor writing, web design, print design, social media content, and brand identity. As a lifelong fan of consuming stuff, he enjoys working on projects related to film, comedy and entertainment. Keith and Steven talk about working in the industry, balancing advocacy with professional achievements and working on The Squeaky Wheel. They talk about the joys of comedy writing and their shared interests in comedy. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated […]

Gage Kern is an Autistic speaker and podcaster. He shares Autistic voices and those that have a beautiful message to give that Don’t get heard through his podcast “Autismtalk”. Keith and Gage talk about podcasting and the importance of sharing stories with the world. They discuss “Autismtalk” and its origins. They talk about Autism awareness and Gage’s life story that led him to create the podcast. Disability Empowerment Now is produced by Pascal Albright. Season 4 is dedicated to Christina Trivigno, Disability Advocate and Friend.