Creating a Disability Inclusive World: Conversation with Tiffany Yu, Author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto

The Invisible Condition Podcast

The Invisible Condition Podcast
Creating a Disability Inclusive World: Conversation with Tiffany Yu, Author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto
Dec 19, 2024 Episode 39
Tim Reitsma

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"I kept getting the question, ‘How can we show up better for the disability community?’ And depending on who you are, the answer is different. That’s why I wrote a book about it. I hope this book can contribute to the conversation, not just about policy change but shifting hearts and minds, perspectives, and attitudes around disability." - Tiffany Yu, Founder & Author

Summary

What if the way we think about disability is holding us back from true inclusion?

It’s not just about policies or accommodations—it’s about the quiet assumptions, the words we use, and the culture we create. How do we move from seeing disability as a problem to solve to recognizing it as a valuable part of the human experience?

That’s exactly what I explore with Tiffany Yu, author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto and a disability advocate who’s redefining inclusion.

Tiffany shares why she wrote her book, how ableism shows up in our everyday lives, and what we can do right now to challenge it.

This isn’t just a conversation; it’s a call to action. Tiffany offers simple yet powerful shifts we can all make—from rethinking the words we use to advocating for accommodations and creating spaces where everyone feels valued. Whether you’re navigating your own journey or looking for ways to support others, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tools to help you take that first step.

And don’t miss Tiffany’s reflections on storytelling, self-worth, and why inclusion isn’t about lowering expectations—it’s about breaking barriers.

If you’ve ever wondered how to show up for the disability community truly, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence to make a meaningful impact.

Takeaways

  • Rethink the Words You Use
  • Advocate Effectively with Simple Phrases 
  • Challenge Assumptions About Disability
  • Inclusive Design and Accommodations Break Barriers, Not Expectations
  • Share Your Story 
  • Start Small, Think Big 

Tiffany Yu - Bio

Tiffany is the CEO & Founder of Diversability, a 3x TEDx speaker, and the author of The Anti-Ableist Manifesto: Smashing Stereotypes, Forging Change, and Building a Disability-Inclusive World. She started her career at Goldman Sachs before becoming a speaker and writer on disability. At the age of 9, Tiffany became disabled as a result of a car accident that also took the life of her father.

TikTok: @imtiffanyyu
Instagram: @imtiffanyyu
LinkedIn: Tiffany Yu
Tiffany Yu Website: https://www.tiffanyyu.com/
Diversability Website: https://mydiversability.com/
Buy the Book: https://www.tiffanyyu.com

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