In today’s fast-paced world, the art of storytelling often gets overlooked. Yet, it remains one of the most powerful tools for driving change, building connections, and leaving a lasting legacy. In our latest episode of Leadership Story Talks, we had the privilege of speaking with Katherine Carol, a recognized expert in disability employment policy and a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities.
Katherine’s journey into advocacy started at a young age, inspired by her mother, who was a special education teacher. This early exposure to the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities sparked a lifelong commitment to making a difference. Katherine’s dedication is not just professional but deeply personal, influenced significantly by her daughter, Mikelle Learned who uses an iPad for communication.
Katherine shared how storytelling has been a cornerstone of her advocacy work. She emphasizes that storytelling is not just for charismatic leaders but is a democratic tool that everyone can use. “You can choose to let yourself be awful, or your experience in life to be awful, or you can choose to celebrate the things that you have,” Katherine says, highlighting the power of perspective in crafting one’s personal story.
One of the most compelling parts of the conversation is Katherine’s discussion about the Shining Beautiful Series podcast, which she co-hosts with Mikelle. This podcast serves as a platform to share stories that break down stereotypes and preconceptions about people with disabilities. Katherine also touches on the impact of technology, including AI, on people with disabilities, stressing the importance of including diverse stories in the digital landscape.
Katherine’s insights extend beyond personal storytelling to its application in professional settings, particularly in advocating for employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. She shares practical tips on how to use storytelling to influence policymakers and secure resources, drawing from her own experiences of raising funds for Mikelle’s medical needs.
Katherine left us with a powerful message: “I think we have, as leaders, a responsibility to choose our story and what our legacy is going to be.” This resonates deeply, reminding us that the stories we choose to tell can shape our legacy and inspire others to take action.
Don’t miss this inspiring episode that delves into the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you’re a leader, an advocate, or someone looking to make a difference, Katherine’s insights will leave you motivated to harness the power of your own story.
Tune in to the full episode HERE or on your favorite podcast platform. And if you find it as impactful as we did, don’t forget to share it with your network.
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