Accessibility Is Home podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Send us a text

Celebrate Women’s History Month with Accessibility Is Home! In this episode, your host—a proud disabled entrepreneur—takes you behind the scenes of her journey to list her fully accessible home on Airbnb. Discover how she transformed her grief into purpose, creating a space that welcomes disabled travelers and their families.

This episode highlights:

• Key accessibility features of her home, including step-free entryways and universal design bathrooms.
• The challenges faced with Airbnb's accessibility review process.
• How accessible rentals can promote disability inclusion in private real estate markets.

Whether you're a member of the disability community, a real estate professional, or a housing advocate, this story offers inspiration and practical tips for leveraging accessible homes as both personal assets and community resources.

Keywords: #AccessibleHomes #DisabilityAdvocacy #AirbnbForAll #InclusiveTravel #WomenEntrepreneurs

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

In Part 2 of our conversation with Lamont McLeod, The Wheeltor, we dive deeper into how he’s transforming the real estate industry for the disability community. As a Black real estate broker and wheelchair user, Lamont is a disruptor in an industry that has long overlooked accessibility. He shares how embracing his identity not only strengthened his brand but also challenged outdated industry norms.

Angela and Lamont discuss the challenges of marketing accessible homes, the hesitation among realtors to engage with disabled buyers due to redlining fears, and the glaring gaps in DEIA efforts when it comes to disability-inclusive real estate. Lamont explains why major platforms like Zillow and Redfin fail disabled home buyers, and why social media has become his most powerful tool for connecting people with accessible homes. They also explore how universal design could reshape housing development and why the real estate industry must do more to include disabled professionals.

This episode highlights why accessibility is a racial and economic justice issue. By elevating the conversation around disability and homeownership, Lamont is not only changing the market—he’s creating opportunities for future Black realtors, developers, and homeowners with disabilities.

🎧 Listen now to hear how The Wheeltor is making real estate more inclusive and why DEIA leaders should take note.

Transcript, please click here. 

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

This week, we take you on an enlightening journey through the world of accessibility and home design for individuals with dementia and Neurodivergent disabilities. Jonathan Katz  joins us to untangle the complexities of accessible design in kitchens and bathrooms. Together, we dig deep into the innovative solutions that can improve usability in the kitchen - from induction stoves to smart fridges.

How often do we think about the dimensions of our refrigerators? Probably not as often as we should. Listen in as Jonathan highlights the disadvantages of most current refrigerator designs, and how shallower and wider fridges could better serve those who struggle with remembering what's in their fridge. We then pivot our discussion towards accessible housing and the remarkable history of disability in Jewish tradition. Jonathan shares riveting insights about how this influences perspectives on food and the crucial role accessible public restrooms play in religious inclusion.

As we move towards the latter part of our conversation, the focus shifts to creating dementia-friendly spaces at home. Jonathan guides us through a plethora of home design features, from slip-resistant surfaces in bathrooms to the merits of single-story homes. We also explore how community design elements can provide additional benefits and how accessible housing expands options for those with disabilities. Wrapping up, Jonathan leaves us with invaluable resources for those looking to age in place or create a dementia-friendly home. Don't let this engaging discussion pass you by - join us as we bridge the gap between accessibility and home design! Below are a few of the discussed resource. More on blog on www.horizontalhouses.com

Resources: Safe and Neurospicy, Flavors of Diaspora, Work on dementia-friendly planning, Unf**k Your Habitat (for cleaning), Crip Up the Kitchen by Jules Sherred, Color Taste Texture by Matt Broberg-Moffitt, Food52’s Interview with Maegan Blau, Samantha Bigleri, AARP Livability Index, Dementia Friendly America

For transcript, click here.

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

For National Disability Employment Awareness Month, join us for an enlightening conversation with Adith Thummalapalli, an ingenious engineer with a disability who guides us through the complex maze of housing accessibility. We examine the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act Section 504, and the Fair Housing Act, spotlighting their shortcomings when it comes to private residences. Aditha and I challenge the concept of "barrier-free" and argue against the necessity of door thresholds, showcasing how modern advances render these obstacles needless for individuals in wheelchairs.

In the second segment of our discussion, we champion the incorporation of accessibility in housing design. Discover how a simple tweak like introducing sliding pocket doors or gradual inclines can revolutionize a home's accessibility. Hear the inspiring story of a housing developer who took the initiative to include these features in their floor plans. As we draw the curtains on this episode, we turn to accessible home ownership for people with disabilities. Learn how resources like HorizontalHouses.com can aid you in this journey and why it's imperative to voice your accessibility requirements. We underline the significance of connecting with the disability community, sharing collective experiences, and raising the standard for disability home ownership. Tune in as we navigate these intricate pathways, aiming to make every house a home for all.

Click here for Transcript

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

Learn how the state of Maryland is one of the best states for disability homeownership.  Intrigued? Join me, Angela Fox, in this insightful discussion as we debunk the conventional reliance on the HUD 203K Rehab Loan and spotlight the unique benefits and flexibility of the Home Ability loan program. This isn't just about borrowing up to 95% of a home's value or the deferred zero-interest rate loan for closing costs, it's about broadening horizons and championing inclusivity in housing for the disability community at the state level. We'll also be delving into the significance of the Rehabilitation Act, a cornerstone civil rights act that has been instrumental in enforcing accessibility in federal programs and resources as it celebrates its 50th anniversary.

But that's not all. As we navigate through the maze of property tax credits, we'll explore the potential of the Design for Life program to incentivize housing developers to build accessible homes. We'll also bring into focus the bold mandate of the Universal Design Housing Act in Prince George's County and its target of making 50% of private housing accessible by 2026. How crucial is an inclusive universal design workgroup comprising individuals with vast experience in accessible housing and an understanding of the intersectionality of different disabilities? We'll answer this and more. You won't want to miss this comprehensive conversation that underscores why Maryland is a beacon of hope in housing accessibility for people with disabilities.

Click here for the transcript

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

Ever wondered how accessible the Caribbean Royal Hotel in Orlando, Florida truly is? For its first anniversary of #NationalAccessibleAirTravelDay,  we're diving deep into every nook and cranny - from the thermostat to the shower gel placement to the furniture layout - to bring you a thorough understanding of the hotel's temporary and long-term accessibility features. We discuss the thoughtful designs such as the lower height placement of thermostats and outlets and bountiful spacing for wheelchair maneuverability, plus we delve into the smart furniture arrangement that accommodates additional medical devices.

But our investigation doesn't stop there. We're scrutinizing accessible amenities like bathroom facilities, elevators, and ground-floor rooms. We weigh the pros and cons of the rolling shower and explore the convenience of wall-attached toiletries. We also assess the accessibility of the pool area and delve into the significance of disability home ownership. Lastly, we share tips on disabled-friendly taxi services and discuss the vital role of real estate agents and developers in creating truly accessible homes. Join us for this enlightening conversation on making living spaces accessible for all. Click here for the transcript. 

To  learn more about national accessible air travel day, check out www.allwheelsup.org 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

Ever wondered how someone with a disability navigates the world of accessible home ownership? All successful disabled individuals can find their success from hard work and the Americans with Disability Act of 1990.

Join us as we chat with Sandy, a quadriplegic woman, who shares her journey from adapting her childhood home to her college dorm experience and the pursuit of accessible living spaces. Listen and learn how Sandy faced the challenges of modifying a house or a condo for accessibility and how she managed to create a safe and comfortable living space for herself.

Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of not only considering the law but also individual needs when it comes to home accessibility. Sandy shares her experiences in modifying her living spaces, from adding plugs and door pulls to working with realtors and buyers to ensure her homes are accessible for future owners. Discover the differences between modifying a house vs a condo, and how accessibility features can be attractive to those looking to age in place.

Finally, we explore the valuable tips and tricks Sandy has learned on her journey to accessible home ownership. From being open to creative solutions to recognizing the importance of sharing collective experiences, we uncover the keys to making any living space comfortable and safe for individuals with disabilities. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with Sandy, as it provides valuable insights for anyone navigating the world of accessible living.

Transcript click here.

Horizontal Houses, host of Accessibility Is Home,  is proud to support the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 33rd Anniversary. On July 26th we celebrate this important civil rights law that works to ensure all people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. Celebrate with us by visiting: adaanniversary.org #ADA33 #ThanksToTheADA #disability #housing #FairHousingAct #wheelchair #quadriplegic #realestate #realestatetips #inclusion #accessibilityishome 

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

What if you could transform your bathroom into a fully accessible space without sacrificing style or functionality? Our knowledgeable guest, Karin Wilson, shares her experience and insights on accessible wet room showers and how they have changed her life. As a power wheelchair user with cerebral palsy, Karin has lived in multiple accessible homes and has even designed her own functional wet room showers, allowing her to shower comfortably and conveniently. Karin is also a travel blogger and has created valuable Disability Tool Kits on a variety of topics available at freewheelingtravel.org 

Join us as Karin describes the concept of a wet room—a space with multiple drains and tile throughout the room that enables people to shower on the toilet and have cabinetry nearby that is not in the way of the shower. We discuss the trial and error process of designing and remodeling accessible bathrooms, the various types of tiles and drains that can be used, and the importance of ensuring the surface is non-slip and using a linear drain to maintain a traditional bathroom look.

Finally, Karin shares valuable tips on finding contractors who understand the concept of wet rooms and universal design and the cost of creating a wet room. We also touch on the programs available to assist in the cost of home modifications, like Medicaid and Vocational Rehabilitation. Listen in as Karen shares her journey of creating accessible bathrooms and the lessons she has learned along the way, and discover how accessible wet rooms can be a game-changer for wheelchair users.

Full transcript: click here.

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

May 18th is Global Accessibility Awareness Day;  is to get everyone talking, thinking, and learning about digital access and inclusion, and the more than One Billion people with disabilities/impairments.

Ron Klein, the grandfather of possibilities, developed all kinds of inventions that impacted people with disabilities, including the braille, the TTY, and the MLS.  Listen to my interview. 

Cush Pocket, a proud sponsor, is a disabled owned company that sells wheelchair bags. Get $1 off by using code Angela Fox 

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com

Send us a text

      For Women's history month, this episode will talk about 2 SheHeros who made an impact on accessible housing and beyond for the disability community; Judy Heumann and Eleanor Smith.  Mrs. Heumann was considered the godmother of the disability rights movement and recently passed away. She along with Ed Roberts, helped initiated the Independent Living Movement; providing the foundation for an accessible environment and housing. I talk about the privilege I had in meeting her during the last six months of her life.
        Mrs. Eleanor Smith created the retired organization, Concrete Change which focuses on incorporating three elements into new home construction for accessibility. Her organization and efforts helped create the Visibility Movement; the idea that homes owned and homes visited, should be accessible for the disabled community.
There is much more to be done in private sector housing to increase accessibility, affordability, and homeownership for the disabled community. Listen for five things that you can do to be the next SheHero or SheHero alley!

Transcript, click here

Support the show

Click for:
Feedback Survey
Facebook
Linkden
www.horizontalhouses.com
Accessibilityishome@gmail.com