Beyond the Stigma: Disability, Independence & Social Perceptions with Devon Wieters - Episode 81
In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron interviews Devon Wieters, a disability advocate and podcast host. Devon shares her advocacy work on the SSI Restoration Act and the struggles disabled individuals face due to restrictive government policies. She discusses her experiences with cerebral palsy, accessibility, and the systemic challenges in disability services. The conversation also highlights the impact of social stigma, Medicaid waivers, and ways to improve inclusion. Devon shares personal stories, insights on Survivor, and the importance of watching Patrice on Hulu. The episode closes with practical tips on making spaces more accessible.
Key Takeaways:
Government Barriers – Disability benefits often penalize individuals for working, marrying, or saving money.
School Inclusion – Early placement in special education can limit later inclusion opportunities.
Social Stigma – Many assume physical disabilities imply cognitive disabilities, leading to exclusion.
Medicaid Waivers – Critical support exists, but reforms are needed to increase financial limits and pay caregivers fairly.
Practical Accessibility – Small changes like better bathroom design and clear pathways make spaces more inclusive.
Devon’s definition of inclusion:
Inclusion is a level playing field for everyone, but right now, people with disabilities don’t have that because of the way our systems are built.
Devon’s Bio:
Devon is a college graduate, writer, and podcaster who just happens to have cerebral palsy. She is passionate about creating a better world for all! She is also fiercely advocating for the passage of the SSI Restoration Act, which would eliminate the Social Security/Medicaid “marriage penalty” and the SSI Savings Penalty Elimination Act, which would raise the salary and asset limits for Social Security and Medicaid. These changes would allow people with disabilities to work and marry without losing vital disability benefits. Devon can bring awareness to the myriad of issues people with disabilities still face and what changes need to be made at both federal and state levels to help people with disabilities and their families and caregivers thrive! She is also advocating for a man named Crosley Green to be released from prison, who she believes was wrongfully convicted of murder in Florida in 1990. Devon is also a super fan of the TV show Survivor and loves analyzing the strategy of the game with the fan community. In fact she learned her interview techniques from watching host Jeff Probst!
Connect with Devon:
Website: https://wheelwithit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/devonewieters
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/devonwieters/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devon-wieters-b01696174/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wheelwithitpod
SPAM© Count:
Host:
Yes
Current Guest:
No
Cumulative Guest Stats:
Yes - 33
No - 46
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