Disability@Work

Why is hiring people with disabilities still so often framed as an act of goodwill rather than a smart business decision? This episode explores the harmful legacy of the charity mindset in disability employment and why it still holds organizations back. Drawing inspiration from a recent article by disability advocate Steve Way, host Ashley Sims examines how low expectations, deficit-based thinking, and employer-centered definitions of success can undermine true inclusion. She challenges leade

AI is transforming hiring, but is it helping employers find the best talent or creating new barriers for qualified candidates? In this episode of Disability@Work, host Ashley Sims explores the growing reliance on AI hiring tools and the risks that come with automated screening, sourcing, and candidate ranking. Building on insights shared by Beverly Dines, COO of Foxsy and Founder of Beverlytics Consultancy, the conversation examines Stanford research showing how AI hiring systems can unintent

As organizations respond to shifting federal guidance and growing scrutiny around DEI, many are scaling back their efforts due to uncertainty or fear. But what if the real risk isn’t doing too much, but not doing enough? In this episode of Disability@Work, host Ashley Sims sits down with Dr. ClauDean Kizart—education leader, author of Beyond Implicit and Explicit Bias, and founder of Lightwork Equitable Solutions—to unpack what’s actually changing, what’s being misunderstood, and where employ

At graduation ceremonies across the U.S., students are pushing back on artificial intelligence. From boos aimed at pro-AI speeches to growing skepticism about job prospects, Gen Z is sending a clear message: the future of work feels uncertain. In this episode of Disability@Work, host Ashley Sims explores how AI is reshaping entry-level jobs, why recent graduates are questioning the hype, and what this means for the next generation of talent. Drawing on recent 2026 workforce data, Ashley un

Why are top employees with disabilities leaving organizations to grow their careers? In this episode of Disability @ Work, host Ashley Sims explores a critical workforce trend: professionals with disabilities are 4x more likely to reach senior roles by switching companies than through internal promotions. The problem isn’t a lack of talent—it’s a lack of opportunity. Ashley breaks down the mentorship vs. sponsorship gap, how workplace bias limits advancement, and why organizations are u

In this episode of Disability@Work, host Ashley Sims breaks down job hugging—a growing workplace trend where employees stay in roles they might otherwise leave because uncertainty feels too risky. This isn’t quiet-quitting or a lack of ambition. It’s a rational response to economic instability, layoffs, AI disruption, DEI rollbacks, and declining psychological safety at work. Drawing on findings from the 2026 Disability at Work Report, Ashley explores why disabled employees are especially lik