Disability in the Public Square | An Our Ability Podcast

Our Ability: Disability in the Public Square is a first-of-its-kind daily podcast that applies a disability lens to mainstream news, entertainment, and public policy. Each episode takes one story from the day's news cycle and asks the question no one else is asking systematically: "Where are people with disabilities in today's story — and how are we being framed?" - John Robinson The show treats disability not as a niche personal issue but as a civic, mainstream subject — as central to public life as race, gender, or class.

Disability in the Public Square | An Our Ability Podcast is a business podcast hosted by John Robinson, with 14 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

John Robinson hosts Disability in the Public Square | An Our Ability Podcast, a business show with 14 episodes published.

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  Episode #16

  Understanding Disability Employment, Section 503 and the Impact of Changing Federal Requirements

  Sep 3, 202617 minS1

  Recent changes to Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act have removed the seven percent workforce benchmark, disability self-identification requirements, and related reporting requirements for federal contractors and subcontractors. In this episode of Disability in the Public Square , John provides context on how the benchmark influenced disability recruitment, workplace disclosure, and employer practices. Ann reviews the federal government’s recent changes, while Blaise shares his perspective as a disability advocate. Together, they explore what these changes could mean for employers, workers, and people with disabilities and what may come next for disability employment policy.

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  Episode #15

  Examining Disability, Entrepreneurship and the Need for Greater Opportunity

  Sep 1, 20267 minS1

  This episode of Disability in the Public Square explores entrepreneurship as a potential and often necessary pathway for people with disabilities facing barriers to traditional employment. John discusses what the true unemployment rate is for those with disabilities, and the importance of contracting opportunities for disability-owned businesses. John considers the ways organizations, government agencies, and allies could support their growth. The episode also features the story of Colette Divitto, founder of Colettey’s Cookies, who built a successful cookie business after encountering difficulties finding employment. Her experiences show that entrepreneurship became a necessity after she was repeatedly overlooked and rejected from previous jobs.

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  Episode #14

  John's Driving Story and Adaptive Mobility Equipment Information

  Aug 29, 202610 minS1

  In this episode, John shares his experience learning to drive and reflects on how access to adaptive technology shaped his work and daily life. The conversation also explores mobility equipment for wheelchair and scooter users, including vehicle lifts and ramps, driving controls, equipment selection, maintenance, insurance coverage, and potential financial resources. Listeners will also hear about the role of occupational therapists and assistive technology specialists in evaluating mobility and driving needs. The episode offers personal perspective alongside practical information for people exploring adaptive driving and mobility options.

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  Episode #13

  IDEA now overseen by HHS Department

  Aug 27, 202612 minS1

  The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is now overseen by the Health and Human Services Department. Listen to hear John's thoughts regarding this change.

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  Episode #12

  A look at NYS Employment, Preferred Source and the need to Check and Balance

  Aug 25, 202613 minS1

  Today, Ann discusses New York State's Preferred Source Program and John shares his thoughts. See the following links for details: Nonprofit ramps up efforts to expand NY disabled workers program https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/132841179 Preferred Sources | Office of General Services CL-624 2026 07 Preferred Source Program Announcements | Office of General Services

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