In the 34th episode of the 3Spoonies podcast, hosts Karen, Jo, and Claire delve into a crucial conversation about the hurdles and opportunities surrounding the employment of disabled individuals. Joining them is special guest Sarah Berthon, founder of Excel Against the Odds, who shares her personal journey and insights on how to create more inclusive workplaces. You can find out more information about Sarah here.
A Personal Journey to Advocacy
Sarah’s story begins with her own experiences of navigating the workforce while managing multiple chronic illnesses, including chronic fatigue syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Her struggles led her to establish Excel Against the Odds, a platform aimed at supporting entrepreneurs with chronic illnesses. Through community building and mentorship, she has created a space where individuals can share their challenges and successes, ultimately fostering a supportive network for disabled entrepreneurs.
The Corporate Challenge: Creating Inclusive Workplaces
One of the key themes discussed in the episode is the need for workplaces to become more accommodating to employees with chronic illnesses. Karen, Jo, and Claire emphasize the importance of a culture shift that allows employees to disclose their conditions without fear of discrimination. Sarah highlights that many individuals do not disclose their chronic illnesses due to concerns about career progression and inadequate support.
The hosts and Sarah explore practical solutions for businesses, such as flexible working hours, adjustments in the office environment (e.g., lighting), and the creation of support networks within organizations. These changes, they argue, are often inexpensive yet crucial for retaining talented employees who may otherwise be forced to leave due to lack of accommodations.
Self-Employment: A Viable Path?
For many disabled individuals, self-employment emerges as a viable option when traditional employment models fail to accommodate their needs. However, as discussed in the podcast, self-employment comes with its own set of challenges, including lack of sick pay, insurance, and difficulties in securing funding.
Sarah shares her involvement with the Lilac Review, a government-backed initiative investigating the inequalities faced by disabled entrepreneurs. This review aims to highlight the barriers in accessing finance and support, which are crucial for the growth and sustainability of businesses run by disabled individuals.
The Importance of Community and Support
Throughout the episode, the importance of community and peer support is underscored. The hosts and Sarah discuss the value of networking with other disabled entrepreneurs to share experiences and strategies for success. Sarah’s Facebook group, Entrepreneurs Against the Odds, and her membership platform, the Chronic Empowerment Hub, are highlighted as vital resources for those seeking guidance and camaraderie in their entrepreneurial journey.
A Call to Action
The 3Spoonies podcast episode concludes with a call to action for both businesses and individuals. For businesses, the message is clear: creating inclusive and flexible work environments is not just the right thing to do, but also a smart business move that leads to loyal and productive employees. For individuals, especially those considering self-employment, the episode serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiration, encouraging them to seek out supportive communities and resources.
You can find out more information about Sarah here.
In a world where one in three individuals has a long-term health condition, the conversation around disability and employment is more critical than ever. The 3Spoonies podcast, with its blend of personal stories and expert insights, provides a valuable platform for these discussions, advocating for a more inclusive and understanding society.
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