Ask, Don’t Assume: How to Foster True Inclusion in Work and Life with Kevin McShan - Episode 59

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Kevin McShan, a journalist and disability advocate, to discuss inclusion, employment challenges, and accessibility. Kevin shares his journey of overcoming barriers in the workforce and how businesses can benefit from hiring people with disabilities. They explore the importance of transition planning, entrepreneurship, and advocacy for equal opportunities. Kevin emphasizes using innovation and empathy to drive inclusion, while AAron reflects on his own experiences as a father of a child with disabilities. The conversation highlights actionable steps individuals and businesses can take to foster a truly inclusive society.

Key Takeaways:

Inclusion = Independence – Kevin defines inclusion as the gateway to independence, emphasizing the need for individualized success.

Employment Barriers – People with disabilities face hiring biases, but businesses benefit from increased retention and productivity when they hire inclusively.

Transition Planning – Parents should start planning their child’s post-high school future early to navigate limited opportunities.

Entrepreneurship Matters – Creating businesses and leveraging innovation can provide alternative career paths for people with disabilities.

Ask, Don’t Assume – The best way to be inclusive is to ask individuals about their needs rather than making assumptions.

Kevin’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is the gateway to independence.

Kevin’s Bio:

I have over 10+ years of journalism experience with knowledge of how to make all forms of media attractive and compelling to viewers and readers.  I’ve interviewed local TV personalities, athletes, coaches, national writers, columnists and radio personalities. One of my strongest core competencies as a journalist is having the ability to connect with people and asking them the questions which will entice them to show their more personal side. I am a disability and inclusion expert, sports Reporter and have plenty of lived experiences which your audience would find compelling.  I was born with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy; however, I have refused to allow my disability to define my limitations and how I live my life. I currently host Lets Have This Conversation.  A platform I created to have conversations with people from all walks of life.  Currently, the platform has received over 200,000 lifetime views.  Lets Have This Conversation. 

Connect with Kevin:

Website: https://www.kevinmcshan.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kevin.mcshan1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-mcshan-1586028a/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@letshavethisconversation

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevin.mcshan8159/

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest: 

No

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 28

No - 29

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