Nearly 26% of U.S. adults—more than 61 million people—live with a disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, yet persistent disparities in employment, education, and health outcomes continue to shape their daily experiences. At the same time, research from the National Institutes of Health shows that nearly half (44%) of respondents believe organizations perform at their best when they actively welcome, respect, and include people of all backgrounds, with a specific emphasis on disability inclusion. In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Chassman Browne—educator, school leader, and passionate DEI and disability advocate—who has been living with Rheumatoid Arthritis since the age of six. Drawing from a lifetime of lived experience and a career dedicated to working with young people, Jenn shares powerful insights into the strengths, resilience, and unique perspectives that individuals with disabilities bring to our communities. Jenn also explores the critical role of allies, inclusive systems, and intentional structures in creating environments where everyone can thrive. As a certified listener poet, she brings a creative and deeply human approach to her work, using storytelling and poetry to foster empathy, connection, and a true sense of belonging. This conversation challenges assumptions, highlights systemic gaps, and ultimately reframes disability not as a limitation—but as a vital part of human diversity that enriches us all. For more information: https://newground.us/index.html Email: [email protected]  Follow:  @JenniferChassmanBrowne   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices