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Inclusion Together Media

Inclusion Together Media

Written by: Inclusion Together Media
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Inclusion Together Media is an organization focused on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across various media platforms. Its mission is to create a more inclusive society by amplifying the voices and stories of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, people of color, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.The organization aims to raise awareness about the importance of representation in media, advocating for fair and accurate portrayals of marginalized groups. Through various initiatives, such as content creation, community outreach, and educational programs, Inclusion Together Media seeks to foster understanding, empathy, and connection among individuals and communities. By engaging with and empowering diverse voices, they strive to create a media landscape that reflects the richness of our society and promotes inclusivity for all.Copyright Inclusion Together Media Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Episode 3 -Creating Digital Spaces That Work for Everyone
    Dec 28 2024
    [Intro Music Fades In]

    Thad:
    Welcome to Inclusion Together Media, the podcast where we explore the power of inclusion in every aspect of life—because creating supportive environments isn’t just a goal; it’s a necessity. I’m your host, Thad Jaymes Bradley, an advocate for inclusive change. Today, we’re diving into practical tips for creating digital spaces that work for everyone.

    [Pause for Emphasis]

    We’re talking websites, apps, social media, and beyond. Whether you’re a designer, a business owner, or just someone who wants to make the digital world more welcoming, this episode is for you.

    [Music Fades Out]

    Part 1: Why Inclusive Digital Spaces Matter

    Thad:
    Let’s start with a simple but powerful question: Why does digital accessibility matter?
    Here’s the deal—around 15% of the global population lives with some form of disability. That’s over a billion people. Making digital spaces accessible isn’t just ethical—it’s smart. It’s about inclusion, yes, but it’s also about reaching a broader audience and building trust.

    Accessible design benefits everyone. Ever used captions in a loud café or appreciated a larger font when you forgot your glasses? That’s universal design in action.

    Part 2: Practical Tips for Digital Accessibility

    Thad:
    Now let’s get into the practical side of things. Here are some actionable steps you can take today to make your digital spaces more inclusive:

    1. Start with Alt Text for Images

    When uploading images, include descriptive alternative text. This ensures that people using screen readers can understand the content. For example, instead of “photo of a dog,” try “a black-and-white dog named Oreo playing in a grassy backyard.”

    2. Use Color Wisely

    Did you know 1 in 12 men and 1 in 200 women experience color blindness? Use high-contrast color schemes and never rely on color alone to convey information. Add labels or patterns to support visual distinctions.

    3. Keyboard Navigation

    Some users rely on keyboards rather than mice to navigate digital spaces. Make sure your website or app is fully functional using just the Tab, Enter, and Arrow keys.

    4. Captions and Transcripts for Videos

    Always provide captions for video content and transcripts for audio. This helps not just individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing but also those in sound-sensitive environments.

    5. Simplify Your Design

    A clean, uncluttered layout benefits everyone, especially people with cognitive disabilities or ADHD. Use clear headings, logical navigation, and minimal distractions.

    Part 3: Testing for Accessibility

    Thad:
    How do you know if your digital space is accessible? Test it!
    •Use free tools like WebAIM’s WAVE or Google Lighthouse to identify accessibility issues.
    •Better yet, involve people with disabilities in your testing process. Their lived experiences will give you insights that automated tools can’t.

    Part 4: The Inclusion Mindset

    Thad:
    Here’s the most important tip of all: adopt an inclusion-first mindset. Accessibility isn’t a one-and-done project. It’s a continuous process. Ask yourself, “Who might be excluded by this design?” and make adjustments accordingly.

    By prioritizing inclusivity, you’re not just meeting legal requirements—you’re creating a better, more welcoming experience for everyone.

    [Outro Music Fades In]

    Thad:
    That’s it for today’s episode of Inclusion Together Media. Remember, small steps lead to big changes. Whether it’s adding alt text, refining your layout, or testing for accessibility, every effort counts.

    If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And don’t forget to subscribe for more tips on creating inclusive environments. Until next time, keep striving for inclusion—together.

    [Outro Music Fades Out]
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    5 mins
  • Episode 2 -Why Inclusion Matters: Small Changes, Big Impacts
    Dec 28 2024
    Welcome to Inclusion Together Media, where we explore ways to create supportive, inclusive environments for everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from. I’m your host, Thad Jaymes Bradley, an Advocate for Inclusive Change. Today’s topic is one that’s close to my heart: why inclusion matters. We often hear the word “inclusion,” but what does it really mean? More importantly, how can we take small steps to make a big difference in the lives of others? That’s what I’ll unpack in this episode. As someone with lived experience navigating disability, neurodiversity, and life on the autism spectrum, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful inclusion can be. It’s not just a concept—it’s a necessity. Let’s dive in. [Main Content: 2:00-13:00] A. What is Inclusion? (2:00-5:00) So, what is inclusion? Simply put, inclusion means creating spaces where everyone feels valued, supported, and able to contribute. It’s about more than just inviting people to the table; it’s about ensuring they have a voice once they’re there. Let me share a personal story. Growing up, I often felt excluded because I was seen as “different.” Whether it was at school or in social settings, the message was clear: I didn’t quite belong. But there was this one teacher—Mrs. Adams—who saw me for who I was. She made sure I had the tools I needed to succeed, from extra time on assignments to encouraging me to share my unique perspective in class. That small act of inclusion? It changed everything for me. Inclusion isn’t complicated. It’s about recognizing the humanity in others and making adjustments so everyone can thrive. B. Why Inclusion Matters (5:00-8:00) Now, why does inclusion matter? For one, it benefits everyone. Studies show that diverse teams are more innovative and effective. But beyond the numbers, inclusion fosters a sense of belonging—and that’s something we all need. Think about a workplace. An inclusive company doesn’t just hire people from different backgrounds; it ensures everyone has the tools to succeed. Imagine a team meeting where everyone’s ideas are valued, regardless of their title, ability, or background. That’s inclusion in action. In schools, inclusion allows students with disabilities to learn alongside their peers. Research shows this not only improves academic outcomes for those students but also teaches empathy and collaboration to their classmates. Inclusion is a win for individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. It’s about breaking down barriers so everyone can contribute their best. C. How Small Changes Make Big Impacts (8:00-13:00) Now, let’s talk about how small changes can lead to big impacts. You don’t need to overhaul your life or your organization to be inclusive. Here are a few simple steps you can take today: 1.Use inclusive language. For example, instead of saying “disabled person,” use “person with a disability.” This small shift puts the person before the condition, which makes a big difference in how they feel. 2.Make spaces accessible. Whether it’s ensuring your website works with screen readers or arranging physical spaces so people with mobility devices can navigate easily, these changes show you care about everyone’s needs. 3.Foster open dialogue. Sometimes, inclusion is as simple as listening. Create opportunities for people to share their experiences and perspectives without fear of judgment. Let me give you a quick story. A friend of mine works in an office that decided to add a quiet room for employees who needed a break from sensory overload. It wasn’t a huge change—they just converted an unused storage space. But for employees with anxiety or sensory sensitivities, it made a world of difference. Productivity went up, and morale improved. That’s the power of small changes. [Conclusion: 13:00-15:00] As we wrap up, here’s what I want you to take away: Inclusion isn’t a one-time effort—it’s a mindset. It’s about being intentional in how we interact with and support others. Small actions, like using inclusive language or making spaces accessible, can have a ripple effect that changes lives. This week, I challenge you to think about one small change you can make to promote inclusion. Maybe it’s in your workplace, your community, or even your own home. And I’d love to hear from you—share your ideas with me on social media or email me at inclusiontogethermedia@gmail.com. Thank you for joining me today on Inclusion Together Media. Stay tuned for the next episode, where we’ll dive into practical tips for creating digital spaces that work for everyone. Until then, remember: small changes lead to big impacts.
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    5 mins
  • Episode 1 - What is Inclusion Together Media?
    Dec 28 2024
    Music fades in.
    Thad (enthusiastically):
    “Hello and welcome to the very first episode of Inclusion Together Media! I’m your host, Thad Jaymes Bradley. I’m a mental health advocate, suicide prevention trainer, and passionate believer in the power of inclusion to transform lives.

    I started this podcast because I believe everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from, deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. As someone who has navigated life with unique challenges—from being a trans man to living with CPTSD and advocating for disability rights—I know firsthand how vital inclusion is to creating a world where we all thrive.”

    Why This Podcast? (2–3 minutes)

    Thad:
    “Inclusion Together Media isn’t just a podcast—it’s a community. A space where we can explore what it means to create environments where everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can truly belong.

    We’ll dive into topics like:
    •Designing workplaces that embrace neurodiversity.
    •Advocating for mental health and disability rights.
    •Personal stories of resilience and transformation.

    I’m here to share my journey, but I also want to highlight yours. Together, we’ll learn from experts, advocates, and everyday people making a difference.”

    What to Expect (2–3 minutes)

    Thad:
    “So, what can you expect from this podcast? Well, each episode will bring something unique to the table. Some weeks, I’ll share solo reflections on topics like the importance of inclusion or how to foster mental well-being in our daily lives.

    Other episodes will feature interviews with amazing individuals—advocates, leaders, and creatives—who are breaking barriers and driving change. We’ll also share practical tips and tools you can use to create inclusive spaces in your community, workplace, or even your own home.”

    A Bit About Me (2–3 minutes)

    Thad:
    “Now, let me tell you a little about myself. I’m a survivor of childhood trauma, and my experiences have fueled my passion for mental health and inclusion. I’ve worked as a suicide prevention trainer, a case advocate for the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program, and a Zoom operator for nonprofits like NAMI.

    I also run my own business, Inclusion Together Media, which focuses on creating tools, resources, and education to promote inclusivity. And yes, I’m a proud dog dad to my 10-year-old pup, Oreo, who treats his toys like babies.

    This podcast is the next step in my mission to build understanding and bridge gaps between people. Because inclusion isn’t just an idea—it’s a practice.”

    Closing and Call to Action (1–2 minutes)

    Background music fades in softly.
    Thad:
    “I am so excited to have you join me on this journey. If you’re as passionate about creating a more inclusive world as I am, I’d love for you to subscribe to this podcast. New episodes will drop [weekly/bi-weekly], and I promise they’ll be packed with insights, stories, and actionable tips.

    Follow us on social media [insert handles] to stay updated and connect with our growing community. And if you’ve got ideas, questions, or stories to share, reach out! You can email me at inclusiontogethermedia@gmail.com—I’d love to hear from you.

    Thank you for tuning in to the very first episode of Inclusion Together Media. Let’s take this journey together, one step, one story, and one conversation at a time. See you next time!”
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    5 mins
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