Empowering Change: Celebrating Disability Employment Awareness Month

October is recognized as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, a time to highlight the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce. In a recent episode of “Enable: The Disability Podcast,” host Darelyn Pazdel from PRIDE Industries discussed the significance of this month and offered insights for job seekers and employers aiming to create inclusive workplaces.

Pazdel emphasized the need for employers to challenge their biases. “It’s important to remind employers to set aside their biases. See the person for what they can do and not through the frame of their disability,” she stated. Her message underscores a critical perspective: when barriers are removed, a vast, untapped workforce becomes available, eager to contribute meaningfully to various sectors.

The podcast aims to educate its audience on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and to showcase their achievements. With new episodes released weekly, it serves as a platform for sharing powerful stories and fostering dialogue around accessibility in the workplace.

Community Job Fair: Bridging Gaps for Job Seekers

The Community at Work Virtual Job Fair is another initiative designed to connect skilled individuals with disabilities to potential employers. This event provides an accessible platform for job seekers to explore opportunities and for employers to meet a diverse talent pool. More information about the job fair is available at advancemediany.com/career-fair-2025.

Geoff Herbert, one of the podcast hosts, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. Born with profound binaural hearing loss, he has successfully navigated a career as a reporter and content supervisor. His experiences as a DJ and his use of assistive technologies highlight the capabilities of those who may face challenges in traditional work environments.

Joining him in the podcast is Kurt Hower, a veteran in the media industry and a leader in his community. Hower has spent over 35 years at Advance Local and is an advocate for focusing on one’s contributions rather than challenges. Living with ankylosing spondylitis, he serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to redefine their limitations.

Amplifying Voices and Opportunities

“Enable: The Disability Podcast” not only shares insights from individuals with disabilities but also aims to dismantle stereotypes surrounding them. By focusing on their abilities rather than disabilities, the podcast aligns with the broader mission of PRIDE Industries to promote inclusive employment practices.

Listeners can access new episodes on platforms such as Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeart. For updates and additional content, followers can connect with the podcast on social media at facebook.com/enablepodcast or on Instagram and TikTok at @enablepodcast.

As the conversation around disability and employment continues to evolve, initiatives like National Disability Employment Awareness Month and the Community at Work Virtual Job Fair play a vital role in shaping more inclusive workplaces. By amplifying the voices of individuals with disabilities and promoting awareness, society can work towards breaking down barriers and fostering a more equitable environment for all.