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Twenty-First Century Disability

Twenty-First Century Disability

Written by: Hollis Peirce
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About this listen

Let's be honest. Life with a disability can be difficult. Luckily, we are living in the twenty-first century. This podcast is about how living in the modern world has helped people with disabilities to have fairly "normal" lives. Join me as we explore why this is and as I try to look at disability from a social model perspective and change how the world sees disability.

© 2025 Twenty-First Century Disability
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Episodes
  • Hear, Hear! The Sweet Science Behind FLO True Balance
    Dec 11 2025

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    Episode Summary:

    In this captivating episode, we sit down with Michael Leung, the innovative mind behind The Flo Group and the FLO TrueBalance hearing aid. Michael shares his inspiring journey, which began with his own challenges related to vision problems. His personal experiences motivated him to seek solutions in the realm of audiology, leading to the development of this groundbreaking technology. Unlike traditional hearing aids, FLO TrueBalance sits comfortably on the outside of the ear and utilizes gentle vibrations through the cheekbones to transmit sound directly to the inner ear. This unique design not only enhances hearing but also keeps users aware of their surroundings. Join us as Michael discusses the intersection of his personal history and innovative technology that is transforming the way we hear the world.


    ###Key Topics Discussed:
    •Michael's background and the inspiration behind The Flo Group
    •How his history of vision problems influenced his focus on sound technology
    •The unique features of the FLO TrueBalance hearing aid
    •How vibrations via the cheekbones change the hearing experience
    •The importance of awareness of surroundings for hearing aid users
    •Overcoming challenges in the tech and health industries
    •Future advancements and what’s next for The Flo Group


    ###Guest: Michael LeungFounder & CEO, The Flo GroupCalgary, Alberta


    ###Resources Mentioned:
    •The Flo Group Website: https://www.theinnerflo.ca/
    •FLO TrueBalance Product Page: https://www.theinnerflo.ca/pages/flo-product-line-innovating-with-purpose

    •More related technology by The Flo Group: https://www.theinnerflo.ca/pages/about-the-ceo-michael-leung-turning-struggles-into-sound

    ###TheFLOGroup Socials:

    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflogroup/

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-flo-group/posts/?feedView=all

    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=the%20flo%20group


    ###Connect with Michael:
    •LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-leung-462547298/


    - Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode.

    • Instagram: @21stcenturydisability
    • Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability
    • Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social
    • TikTok: @21stcenturydisability
    • LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce

    - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events by clicking here: https://www.21stcenturydisability.com/contact!



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    33 mins
  • Unamic's Footprint: Crafting Adaptive Comfort
    Nov 27 2025

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    In this exciting episode, we welcome back our first returning guest, Christian Stylianou! Christian first joined us to share his insights into the world of adaptive fashion, and today, he's back to dive into his latest venture: Unamic Clothing.

    Unamic is an innovative adaptive clothing line, currently focused on providing stylish and functional socks designed for individuals with unique needs. Christian explains how Unamic aims to bridge the gap between adaptive clothing and contemporary, fashionable apparel. He shares his vision of creating products that not only serve a functional purpose but also empower individuals to express their personal style.

    During our conversation, we explore:
    - The inspiration behind Unamic Clothing and its mission.
    - The design process and the thought that goes into creating adaptive socks.
    - Future plans for expanding the Unamic product line beyond socks.
    - The importance of inclusivity and style in adaptive fashion.

    Christian's passion for making a difference in the lives of those who require adaptive clothing shines through in this episode. Whether you're interested in fashion, entrepreneurship, or just want to learn more about adaptive clothing, this episode is for you!

    #### Key Takeaways:
    - Unamic Clothing's mission to merge style with functionality in adaptive fashion.
    - Insights into the design and production of adaptive socks.
    - Future expansions and upcoming products from Unamic Clothing.
    - The importance of representation and inclusivity in the fashion industry.

    #### Episode Resources:
    - Learn more about Unamic Clothing: www.unamic.co
    - Follow Unamic on social media: Instagram: @unamic, @christianstylianou LinkedIn: @unamic, @ChristianStylianou, Facebook: @christianstylianou

    #### Join the Conversation:
    We want to hear from you! What are your thoughts on adaptive fashion? Have you tried Unamic's products? Share your experiences with us on social media or leave a comment on our website!

    **Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast!**

    - Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode.

    • Instagram: @21stcenturydisability
    • Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability
    • Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social
    • TikTok: @21stcenturydisability
    • LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce

    - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events by clicking here: https://www.21stcenturydisability.com/contact!



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    30 mins
  • Knot Your Average Knife: The NULU Experience
    Nov 13 2025

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    **Episode Summary:**
    In this episode of *21st Century Disability*, host Hollis Peirce sits down with American veteran Douglas Katz, whose years of service have left him with long-term upper body injuries, particularly affecting his shoulders. These challenges have made everyday tasks, like cooking, quite difficult for Doug.

    In response to his struggles, Doug set out to create an innovative tool that would make cooking safer and more accessible for himself. However, what he discovered was even more impactful: he designed a knife that not only aids him but also benefits individuals with various physical disabilities.

    Join us as Doug shares his inspiring journey of creating the NULU knife, detailing the design process and the unexpected ways it can help others.

    **Key Takeaways:**
    - The impact of military service on physical health.
    - The challenges of daily tasks for individuals with upper body injuries.
    - The creative process behind designing accessible tools.
    - How the NULU knife supports those with multiple types of physical disabilities.

    **Listen to the episode to find out:**
    - What inspired Doug to invent the NULU knife.
    - The unique features of the knife that make it beneficial for a wide range of users.
    - Doug's personal journey and the lessons learned along the way.

    **Links and Resources:**
    - Follow Doug Katz and learn more about the NULU knife

    Website: https://nuluknives.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nuluknives/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560603133626

    Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/dkwp93g3h2.bsky.social

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaskatz/

    - Connect with us on social media to share your thoughts about this episode.

    • Instagram: @21stcenturydisability
    • Facebook: Twenty-First Century Disability
    • Bluesky: @21centdisability.bsky.social
    • TikTok: @21stcenturydisability
    • LinkedIn: Hollis Peirce

    - Use the hashtag #21stCenturyDisability to join the discussion online.

    Subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming episodes and events by clicking here: https://www.21stcenturydisability.com/contact!



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    26 mins
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