Let’s Work Inclusively is a podcast focused on advancing accessibility and inclusion across communities. Featuring voices from business, nonprofit, and government sectors, each episode explores real-world solutions and stories that help create spaces where everyone can belong and participate fully.
Putting the Human Back in HR: Leadership, Trust & Inclusion
What happens when organizations stop focusing only on policies and processes and start focusing on the people behind them?
Dylan M. Rafaty sits down with Dee Maddox of DMX Consulting for a conversation about people-first leadership, organizational change, employee engagement, and creating workplaces that are accessible and inclusive for all.
Dee shares lessons from her career in human resources and organizational leadership, including her experience serving as the Human Capital Team Lead during the Space Shuttle retirement transition. She explains why communication is one of the most important tools leaders have during times of change—and how transparency can reduce confusion, resistance, and conflict while strengthening trust and credibility.
The conversation also explores what Dee calls “putting the human back into human resources.” Instead of applying the same approach to every employee, she encourages leaders to understand individual strengths, communication styles, motivations, development goals, and needs.
Dylan and Dee discuss the connection between empathy and accountability, why clear expectations matter, how delegation can become a professional development tool, and why strong systems and a people-first culture don’t have to compete with one another.
They also examine the business case for disability inclusion and accessibility. Dee explains why businesses may be overlooking highly capable talent simply because accessibility hasn’t been intentionally built into their processes—and why creating an inclusive organization begins with inviting different perspectives to the table.
27 Aug 2026
Beyond Accommodation: Building a Business Around the Individual w/ Dr. Shahriela Ganjoor
What does it really mean to create an experience where everyone feels seen, respected, and included?
On this episode of Let’s Work Inclusively, host Dylan M. Rafaty sits down with Dr. Shahriela Ganjoor, founder of Modern Bite Dentistry, Home of Veneer Lounge, to explore the intersection of entrepreneurship, patient experience, accessibility, and disability inclusion.
Dr. Ganjoor shares how she went from dental hygienist to dentist and entrepreneur, and why she designed her practice around creating a more personalized experience for every patient. From private dental suites and sensory considerations to additional appointment time and individualized communication, she explains how understanding what a person actually needs can transform their experience.
Dylan also shares his perspective as a deaf and hard-of-hearing patient, including why well-intentioned accommodations can sometimes create new barriers when organizations make assumptions instead of simply asking.
The conversation goes beyond dentistry to explore how businesses can empower employees, build cultures centered on empathy, approach accessibility as an opportunity rather than an obligation, and give people the freedom to provide the kind of support each individual needs.
Dr. Ganjoor also shares the philosophy that has influenced her entrepreneurial journey: “Today is yesterday’s tomorrow.” Her message is simple—when you see an opportunity to make something better, take action instead of waiting for someone else to do it.
Ultimately, inclusion isn’t about treating everyone exactly the same. It’s about creating an environment where people feel loved, respected, and able to fully participate.
23 Jul 2026
Unlocking Meaningful Employment & Accessibility for People with Disabilities with Jenny Stonemeier
Jenny Stonemeier, CEO of Reach Incorporated, joins Dylan M. Rafaty to reflect on the significance of Disability Pride Month and the ongoing fight for disability rights. Together, they explore meaningful employment, accessible housing, and the power of community collaboration to create opportunities that allow people with disabilities to live independent, fulfilling lives.
25 Jun 2026
Changing Lives With A Red Carpet Gala: The Magic Behind Night of Superstars
This episode explores the inspiring story behind Night of Superstars, an elegant gala celebrating the achievements of individuals with disabilities. Host Dylan M. Rafaty chats with Greg Johnson, the founder, who shares how this event creates belonging, empowerment, and opportunities for people often overlooked, turning challenges into shining moments of success.
21 May 2026
Driving Economic Growth Through Leadership & Inclusivity with Harrison Blair
Dylan M. Rafaty welcomes Harrison Blair, president and CEO of the Dallas Black Chamber of Commerce, to explore leadership, commerce, and collaboration through a lens of accessibility and inclusion. Harrison shares rich family history and personal stories that shaped his community-driven approach to leadership and his vision for inclusive economic development in North Texas.
23 Apr 2026
Building Inclusive Sports Communities: Lessons from Dallas Trinity FC & PowerSense
Trip Neil and Saadia Sheikh join Dylan M. Rafaty to explore how sports can foster purpose and inclusion within the disability community. Trip shares his journey founding Dallas Trinity FC and integrating disability inclusion into professional women’s soccer, and Saadia highlights PowerSense’s mission to empower deaf and hard-of-hearing youth through inclusive, fun experiences. Together, they discuss meaningful ways sports and community collaboration can break barriers and create lasting impact.
19 Mar 2026
Creating Inclusive Communities: Shammah Joy on Accessibility, Intentionality & Equity
Shammah Joy, founder of the Overcomer Foundation and longtime advocate for accessibility and diffability, joins Dylan M. Rafaty to share her journey of empowerment through lived experience as a parent and entrepreneur. Together, they explore how intentional inclusivity and allyship can transform communities and foster true belonging for individuals with differences in abilities. Shammah’s innovative approaches, from the iCans book series to fostering accessibility-first mindsets in organizations, move beyond awareness to create communities of true inclusion.
19 Feb 2026
Developing Genuine Corporate Giving Strategies That Engage Employees and Community
What if your business could create lasting community impact while truly engaging your employees? Nick Marino Jr., Director of the Center for Business Impact at Communities Foundation of Texas, joins host Dylan M. Rafaty and shares his personal journey from a life-changing mission trip to pioneering authentic corporate philanthropy strategies that empower employees and foster sustainable community partnerships.
15 Jan 2026
Harnessing AI, Cybersecurity & Accessibility for Business Growth with Tiffani Martin
Dylan M. Rafaty welcomes Tiffani Martin, founder and CEO of VisioTech, to discuss her journey pivoting into the disability and technology space after losing her sight. Together, they explore how accessibility, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity intersect as powerful drivers for inclusion and business impact, highlighting Tiffani's leadership and the importance of support systems. Tune in to discover how embracing disability inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a $13 trillion economic opportunity.
18 Dec 2025
Building Community-Driven Accessibility: How Richardson's Leadership Prioritizes Inclusion
How does a city balance innovation with true accessibility? Mayor Amir Omar and City Manager Don Magner share how Richardson is redefining inclusion—from inclusive playgrounds to adaptive community events and a groundbreaking ADA transition plan. Tune in to discover how relationship-driven leadership and community engagement are shaping a city where everyone belongs.
20 Nov 2025
How Can We Rethink Disability Inclusion? Meryl K. Evans Explains the Spectrum of Communication Needs
Born profoundly deaf and a leading voice in accessible communication, Meryl K. Evans shares her personal and professional journey advocating for disability inclusion in the workplace. Together with host Dylan M. Rafaty, she explores how offering communication options and involving people with disabilities in design fosters true accessibility beyond mere compliance. This episode highlights practical strategies, technology’s evolving role, and impactful community achievements in North Texas.
16 Oct 2025
How Can Collaboration Transform Disability Support? Insights with Mandy Noerper of ConnectIDD
“Disability inclusion thrives when we stop reinventing the wheel and start collaborating.” Mandy Noerper, National Director of Programs at ConnectIDD, shares how her team supports organizations nationwide to strengthen services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Tune in to discover how strategic partnerships and innovative program design are reshaping accessibility and empowering communities across the U.S.
18 Sept 2025
How to Cultivate Future Leaders: Valuable Lessons from the Emerging Leaders Fellowship
Ready to be inspired? Join Dylan M. Rafaty as he chats with emerging leaders Curtis Grice, Jordan Busby, and Carolyn Kedslie on the latest episode of Let's Work Inclusively. They share their journeys through the Emerging Leaders Fellowship Program, tackling vital topics like accessibility, mental health, and the importance of community support. Discover how these passionate individuals are shaping a more inclusive future and learn how you can contribute to this movement. Tune in for insights that could spark your own leadership journey!
20 Aug 2025
How to Champion Accessibility: Cynt Marshall’s Blueprint for Inclusive Leadership
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cynt Marshall, former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks and founder of Marshaling Resources, as she shares her journey toward championing inclusion and accessibility. Discover how her pivotal experiences shaped her commitment to creating equitable opportunities for all, especially in the foster care system. Tune in to learn how you can make a meaningful impact in your community by embracing fairness and engagement!
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