September 20, 2024 • 34 mins
What if you could lead an entire team, present complex ideas, and engage in high-stakes discussions without ever speaking a word? This episode of the Embrace It podcast introduces you to Delaney Novor, an inspiring young leader who has mastered this art. As the Director of Product Management at the National Apartment Association, Delaney uses cutting-edge text-to-voice technology to navigate her professional and personal life seamlessly. Learn how she overcame communication barriers caused by dystonia and revolutionized her career, making her a beacon of empowerment for underrepresented professionals.
From her first encounter with assistive technology in middle school to the sophisticated Speech Ninja platform she uses today, Delaney shares her transformative journey in an authentic and compelling manner. She recounts her experiences with a high school transcriber and the pivotal moment a remote job led her to fully embrace text-to-voice tools. Delaney’s story is not just about technology; it’s about resilience, innovation, and redefining what’s possible. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the intersection of tech and accessibility, and how it can enable everyone to work and live on their own terms.
- Follow Delaney on Instagram
- Connect with Delaney on LinkedIn
- Visit Delaney’s Website
- Book an EmBRACE It Workshop
- Looking for more great tips, hacks, and blog posts? Visit: Trend-Able.com
- Find more on Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) and patient resources at: HNF-cure.org
- Follow us on IG! @embraceit_podcast | @trend.able | @cmtwegotthis
Hosted by Lainie Ishbia and Estela Lugo.
Embrace It is produced by Launchpad 516 Studios.
For sponsorships and media inquiries, drop an email to: embraceit@lp516.com
Subscribe to Embrace It with Lainie and Estela on Apple Podcasts and get notified of new episodes! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/embrace-it-with-lainie-estela-smashing-disability-stigmas/id1468364898
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:03):
Welcome to the Embrace it series, where women
with all types of disabilitiescan be real, resourceful and
stylish.
With each episode, you'll walkor roll away with everyday tips,
life hacks and success storiesfrom community leaders and
influencers.
So take off your leg braces andstay a while with Lainey and
Estella.
Speaker 3 (00:26):
Hi, I'm Lainey and I have CMT, and I'm Estella and I
also have CMT, a neuromusculardisorder affecting approximately
2.6 million people worldwide,that's as many as MS.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
We believe disabilities should never get in
the way of looking or feelinggood.
Both of us wear leg braces andhave learned through our own
personal journeys to embrace itBrought to you by Launchpad 516
Studios.
Speaker 3 (00:52):
Each episode is designed to challenge your own
stigmas and beliefs arounddisability.
We want our listeners to getthe most value for their time
spent with us, so we interviewsome of the most empowering
disability badasses in the world.
Through storytelling, personalexperiences and tips, we're all
reminded of our own strengthsand endless potential.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
For more information and exclusive resources, check
out our websites attrend-ablecom and hnf-cureorg,
and don't forget to hit thesubscribe button for future
episodes and special promos.
Speaker 3 (01:30):
Hey Embracers.
Welcome to another episode ofthe Embrace it podcast with
Estella and Lainey.
Hey, lainey.
Hi Estella, so good to see you Iknow and we have Delaney here
today, who is our good to seeyou.
I know and we have Delaney heretoday, who is our special guest
.
We see her on our screen rightnow and we are so excited
because this is definitely goinginto uncharted territory for us
(01:55):
today this subject matter and Ithink it's definitely an
exciting opportunity for us toexplore some digital technology
that we haven't yet been exposedto on our podcast, or maybe our
listeners haven't either.
So today's guest is DelaneyNovor.
She describes herself asunabashedly black, young, female
(02:19):
and disabled.
She is the director of productmanagement at the National
Apartment Association.
She is a tech entrepreneur, amentor and an advocate for
unrepresented professionals.
We want to introduce you, wewant to hear about your story,
but we want to kind of just makean introduction that you will
(02:41):
be using tech-to-voicetechnology for this podcast.
A lot of us are familiar withvoice-to-text, but Delaney uses
text-to-voice and she has alovely digital voice that she'll
be sharing with us today.
So hi, delaney.
Speaker 4 (02:59):
So good to be here.
I use text-to-voice technologybecause I have a mild disability
called dystonia, which affectsmy ability to speak.
This technology has been a gamechanger for me, both personally
and professionally.
It allows me to communicateeffectively in various settings,
from casual conversations tohigh-stakes meetings.
Professionally, it enables meto lead my team, present ideas
(03:24):
and engage in discussionswithout any barriers.
Personally, it's given me theconfidence to participate fully
in social interactions.
I will also say that I can talk, but I hate repeating myself.
I was introduced totext-to-speech in middle school.
When I was in eighth grade Ihad an AAC device, but I barely
used it because other kids foundit weird, so I just continued
(03:46):
to talk verbally.
Then in high school, I had atranscriber with me in every
class, because I also have amild hearing loss.
A transcriber is someone whocan caption events and lectures
in real time.
So my transcriber will be inclass with me and she would have
two synced laptops where shewas captioning the lectures and
dialogues in class for me toread.
(04:07):
If I had to participate orwanted to, I could type what I
wanted to say and she would readit out loud.
That was my experiencethroughout graduate school.
After I had graduated with mymaster's, I warmed up to using
text-to-speech again because Ihad a remote job when I was 25
and I was making six figures, soI had to give presentations,
(04:27):
and that is when I decided touse text-to-speech again.
This tech has opened upopportunities that might
otherwise have been inaccessible, empowering me to live and work
on my own terms.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
So, delaney, this is the coolest thing ever, I mean
honestly.
I mean, not only is this afirst for our podcast, but this
is a first for me personally,having a conversation with
someone who's using this amazingtext to voice technology.
Like I don't even know where tobegin, because it's so cool.
(04:59):
First of all, the voice.
I mean.
I just discovered, by the waypeople who are listening that on
Siri you can change the voice,and so for a minute I had like
an Indian man and then like butmy kids didn't like that.
They thought it was making fun,but it wasn't.
But that's a different story.
Delaney, tell us how does thiswork?
Speaker 4 (05:20):
Thank you.
It is called text to speech ortext to voice.
People at work call me theStephen Hawking of tech because
Stephen was the first mainstreamfigure to use it and bring it
to the mainstream media.
So I have a website open upright now where I can type and
click enter to read it out loud.
Speaker 3 (05:37):
First of all, is that a website that anyone can?
Speaker 4 (05:39):
access.
Yes, it is called Speech Ninjaand it has a $10 subscription
monthly fee.
My job pays for it as part ofmy expenses.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
We definitely want to learn more about you, Delaney,
because you are absolutelyfascinating.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Can we just start with what is dystonia, because I
don't really know how do youget it?
Is it something that'sinherited?
How did you know you had it?
Speaker 4 (06:04):
Yes, I have dystonia.
Growing up it was cerebralpalsy because dystonia was not
popularly known yet.
But in graduate school Istruggled finding the specific
cerebral palsy that fit my case.
So I was like, hmm, maybe it isdystonic cerebral palsy or it
is dystonia.
It ended up being dystoniabecause when you look up the
symptoms, it was me 100% to a TTo answer your next question.
(06:28):
Growing up with a disability hadits challenges, but it also
taught me resilience andadaptability from a young age.
I learned early on that lifewouldn't always be easy, but
that didn't mean it wasimpossible.
I credit my parents for this alot.
When I was born they nurturedmy confidence and my mom likes
to say I was a diva growing up.
(06:48):
I did not talk until I was fiveyears old, but I was assertive
in what I wanted and I wasattuned to my needs.
I was not afraid to let it beknown.
The personality I was molded tohave was not affected by my
disability.
It was affected by myconfidence and outlook on the
world.
In short, they just treated melike a normal kid.
(07:10):
It also helped that the veryfirst ever disabled person I met
in my life was none other thanStevie Wonder.
I met him when I was sevenyears old.
I am friends with hisgoddaughter, who is the daughter
of the late, legendary, fameddirector John Singleton and
actress Akosha Avija, whostarred in the Color Purple with
Oprah playing her sister.
Meeting Stevie Wonder taught me, disabled or not, the world is
(07:34):
my oyster.
People will respect you if youare the best in what you do and
you embrace yourself to thefullest when you do.
Others will follow and embraceyou too.
Speaker 3 (07:44):
How cool, Stevie Wonder.
That's pretty impressive foryour first interaction with the
disability community.
Speaker 2 (07:51):
You know, looking at, we did a little for our
listeners.
You know, we, because this wasa unique interview, we did a
little, gave Delaney somequestions in advance so that she
could prep.
And I'm looking at ourquestions and I'm like one of
them is you know who was someonewho influenced you as a child
in terms of disability?
And I guess we know the answerto that right.
(08:13):
And obviously you know yourparents, as you mentioned, and
your family have been reallysupportive.
How did you like learn how toadvocate for yourself?
Speaker 4 (08:24):
Yes, definitely.
My parents were my firstadvocates.
They saw that I was reallysmart, so my mom homeschooled me
.
She read me books, taught methe alphabets.
My dad will recite positiveaffirmations.
And then I was sent to anursery school where I proved
that I could hold my own.
They were sending me to schoolin Pampers because I could not
(08:44):
talk at that time.
But every time I needed to usethe bathroom I will ask the
teachers, by pointing at mypants and the bathroom, like,
take me there.
And I was wearing pampers,which I never needed.
So they told my mom to put mein diapers.
Pampers are diapers.
We say pampers in Ghana, but itis diapers here.
So, yeah, from that moment on,my parents knew I was going to
(09:07):
be just fine.
Speaker 3 (09:08):
You were schooled at home for the early years, but
what about college?
Were there any key momentsduring your education that kind
of stand out for you as well?
Speaker 4 (09:19):
School was a mixed experience for me.
On one hand, I was academicallyadvanced and placed in
mainstream classes withable-bodied kids, often being
the only Black girl in the room.
I never needed specialeducation.
By the time I was in fourthgrade, I had already read all
the books in the elementaryschool library and was diving
(09:39):
into high school level books,including legal thrillers by
John Grisham.
I even wanted to be a defenselawyer for a while.
Because of that, my performancewas so high that I skipped
sixth grade and went straight toseventh grade.
On the other hand, being theonly disabled girl in class was
challenging.
I vividly remember PE classes,where I was always picked last
(10:01):
for teams, which constantlyreminded me of my differences.
This feeling followed me allthe way to graduate school.
I had an experience where alecturer randomly assigned
partners for a major simulationcompetition that counted for a
significant part of our grade.
My partner, who was also one ofthe only other black girls in
the class, threw a fit when shefound out she was paired with me
(10:23):
.
She demanded to switch partnersor add another person because
she assumed I would make herlose.
I had to assert that I was morethan qualified, having founded
three startups in college.
In the end, we ended up winningthe competition, placing first
or second out of a class ofaround 70 students.
Speaker 2 (10:42):
Wow, like you just are continuing to be amazing.
You had mentioned that your jobpays for text to voice
technology.
I'm wanting to say speech tovoice, but text to voice
technology.
Can you tell us a little bitabout your job, what you do
there and kind of like yourbasically your journey with
(11:06):
mental health and to becomingthis?
I guess your official title isthe Director of Product
Management at the NationalApartment Association.
Speaker 4 (11:17):
Yes, sure.
So I work at National ApartmentAssociation.
We are an association thatserves the rental housing
community.
We offer resources and productlines that our members use.
Our members are usuallyproperty management companies
that own residential buildingsrenters live in and we have
guidelines that our membersfollow to stay aligned with the
(11:37):
regulations the government tasks.
So, because we have productlines such as Click and Lease,
which is our major revenuegenerator, and we provide lease
documents and templates propertymanagement companies can use,
we have our software that Imanage with a team.
I manage a team of seven wherewe keep our product lines moving
, and I am also the youngest onmy team, so we laugh every time
(11:59):
they call me madam, but they'rethe best and it means a lot when
they say I am the best bossthey ever had.
Speaker 3 (12:07):
I can see why I mean that's.
That's pretty wild and I'm sureyou experience.
You know that peopleunderestimate you right when
they first meet you and how youare probably constantly breaking
people's stigmas andexpectations of when they see
you and what you truly arecapable of.
(12:29):
Can you talk a little bit aboutwhat that's been like?
Did you come across that whileinterviewing for positions?
Because I can imagine, withthis type of technology, we're
recording this podcast right nowand there is a pause and you
require a pause to answer thesequestions, to type out your
(12:49):
answers and then for the speechtechnology to start.
So what has been your approachto breaking these stigmas and
educating people abouttechnology and accommodations in
the workplace?
Speaker 4 (13:04):
My story is one of resilience and strategic
determination.
As a Black disabled woman, I'veconsistently found myself in
situations where I've beenunderestimated, both in life and
in the workplace.
This underdog status has drivenme to stay five steps ahead,
ensuring that I outsmart andoutmaneuver those who doubt me.
I've always thrived onchallenges, using them as
(13:26):
opportunities to showcase mystrengths and capabilities.
My journey has taught me theimportance of strategy, and I've
made it my mission to eatstrategy for breakfast, just as
Kamala Harris says, she eats nofor breakfast.
When faced with a no, I see itas a challenge to turn it into a
yes, leveraging my skills andpersuasion and my ability to
(13:48):
present the bigger picture frommy perspective.
Throughout my career, I'veconsistently demonstrated that
being underestimated can be apowerful advantage.
It fuels my drive to exceedexpectations and to secure
victories that others never sawcoming, whether it's in the
boardroom or the broader scopeof life.
I've learned to turn doubt intodetermination, ensuring that I
(14:09):
always come out on top.
My story is one of perseverance, strategy and the unwavering
belief that I can and willovercome any obstacle placed in
my path.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
Amazing and not surprising at all, given how
bright you are, young and brightthat you have done so much
writing Like you.
Have tons of articles out thereand one in particular really
grabbed me, the title especially, and I think our listeners will
(14:41):
really appreciate the title andthe meaning and I want to just
kind of quote, if it's okay you,delaney, in your article that's
called the Two Out of Ten Days,you wrote on the bad days which
typically occur about two outof every 10, my mental and
(15:03):
physical health conspire againstme, sending me into a state of
profound exhaustion and despair.
I mean, I think a lot of peoplewith disabilities and without
can relate, moms especially ingeneral.
I let's just the list is, youknow, endless, but you know
(15:26):
especially people withdisabilities.
Can you share a story, aspecific story, from one out of
those two out of ten days andhow you navigated that day one
of the two?
Speaker 4 (15:39):
out of ten days.
That stands out to me happenedduring a critical project at
work.
I woke up feeling completelydrained, both mentally and
physically, yet I had importantmeetings lined up.
I pushed myself to get throughthe day, relying heavily on my
text-to-speech technology tocommunicate.
It was exhausting, but Imanaged to deliver what was
(15:59):
needed.
The aftermath taught me that,while pushing through is
sometimes necessary, it'sequally important to acknowledge
when to take a step back.
As an executive, you reallyneed your second hand.
I was operating at full speedwithout one, so I am glad we now
added a senior manager on myteam who is my second hand, and
it has been very helpful.
(16:19):
That experience reinforced theneed for balance and self-care
in my life.
Work will always be there, butyour health won't.
That is what one of my mentorstaught me a few years ago, and
she was so right.
Speaker 3 (16:31):
Especially when we're doing work that we're
passionate about and we might bemore likely to burn out.
I find myself burning outsometimes to big projects or big
events and you're going fullspeed and then you just kind of
hit that wall and you forgetthat our bodies are limited
right and our health and ourenergies have limits to them,
(16:52):
and to honor that and to notlook at that as a negative thing
, we'll be right back this isgeorge, fred and jason, the
co-leaders of speak,interrupting to say that we hope
(17:13):
you're enjoying this episode,but please make sure to check
out our new show, the speakpodcast, another great show
produced by launchpad 516Studios.
Speaker 5 (17:23):
New episodes available every week on all of
your favorite podcast platforms.
Speaker 6 (17:28):
Each Speak Talk is about six to 10 minutes in
length, and the talks are givenin storytelling format.
There are three key moments ineach Speak Talk the moment of
truth, the moment oftransformation and the moment of
impact.
We host pop-up events all overthe world, and now we're
bringing our talks to yourdevice.
Speaker 5 (17:49):
Join us on the Speak podcast as our speakers step
onto the stage and into thespotlight with impactful ideas
and stories.
Speaker 1 (17:58):
We'll let you get back to the show you were
listening to.
Another great podcast fromLaunchpad 516 Studios.
Speaker 3 (18:08):
You're tuning in to Embrace it with Lainey Anastella
, brought to you by Launchpad516 Studios.
You talk also a lot about theintersection of mental health
and disability, which you knowwe talk about obviously a lot on
this podcast, lainey and I.
You know we talk aboutobviously a lot on this podcast,
lainey and I, about just theemotional navigation required to
(18:28):
live with a disability orchronic illness.
Can you talk to us a little bitabout your experience with that
intersection and how youbalance or navigate both of
those as well?
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Mental health and physical disability are closely
intertwined in my life.
The daily challenges ofmanaging a disability can take a
toll on mental health, leadingto stress, anxiety or even
depression.
Conversely, mental healthstruggles can exacerbate
physical symptoms, creating acycle that's hard to break.
My advice for others in similarsituations is to prioritize
(19:01):
both aspects equally.
Don't ignore mental health justbecause physical symptoms seem
more pressing.
Seeking therapy, practicingmindfulness and building a
strong support system arecrucial steps in managing the
intersection of mental healthand disability.
I will admit that I don'talways take my advice because I
am an overachiever.
(19:21):
I am in the mindset of theunderdog, where I have to prove
everyone wrong and outperformeach day.
My work yields great results,but at what cost?
So I am really trying to findthe right balance.
Speaker 2 (19:33):
Yeah, I mean, you kind of said that in I'm going
to be the Delaney quoter ofarticles here.
In another article calledPushing Through with the Resolve
you said I quote, there arealso times when my drive and
determination lead me to pushthrough, albeit with a heavy
price paid later.
Do you, can you share anexample of that and how you were
(19:57):
able to learn how to balanceyour ambition with self-care?
Speaker 4 (20:02):
There was a time when I was leading a critical
project and I knew pushingthrough was the only option,
despite the toll it would take.
I was dealing with a severeflare-up of my physical symptoms
, but the deadline wasnon-negotiable.
I managed to complete theproject successfully, but it
came at the cost of my health.
I am the very first productmanagement hire my organization
(20:25):
made, so I have been educatingmy organization on what product
management is and best practices, how product strategy can
achieve our business goals andgrowth, et cetera.
So I was doing a pre-writing,recording my scripts for each
slide of every presentation andI had to use AI to help me edit
it, because I am managing a teamof seven, a portfolio of $30
(20:46):
million in assets, and it wastiring.
So I helped me edit my scriptsand save time, but I was accused
of using AI to do all mypresentations.
Some coworkers did notunderstand I was still writing
the scripts.
It was not AI.
They couldn't comprehend.
I am bright, like you said.
So I had to say even StephenHawking had assistants and his
(21:07):
wives helped him write hishour-long lectures.
I think it was a mix of beingintimidated by me and not
realizing that I am that good atwhat I do, and being 28 has
nothing to do with my job.
The aftermath was a period ofrecovery, both physically and
mentally.
This experience taught me that,while determination is
admirable, it's essential torecognize your limits.
(21:28):
It's about finding a balancebetween ambition and self-care,
and understanding that it's okayto step back when needed.
Speaker 3 (21:35):
And I'm sure there are some generational gaps there
as well.
In the workplace, with AItechnology and you know, just
this emergence of intelligencethat we have at our fingertips
now that we can use as tools tooptimize and enhance.
I know I love my chat GBT everyday and I know Lainey enjoys it
(21:58):
as well, and so it is.
We are lucky to have thattechnology at our fingertips now
, but at the same time, there'sstill some stigma and a fear
around that.
You know people are fearingthat their jobs are going to get
lost or they don't quiteunderstand it.
So thank you for sharing thatwith us.
(22:21):
Are there any other copingmechanisms that you personally
use in your daily life to moveforward as a professional woman
with a disability that might behelpful to our listeners.
Speaker 2 (22:36):
And also like self-care tools.
You know, not just professionaltools, oh yeah, not just
professional tools, but thingswhen we're talking about
balancing the mental health andyour professional
responsibilities.
If there's any tools you use.
Speaker 4 (22:50):
Yes, I treat myself every Friday.
I like to do takeout on Friday,where I order new food and
delight in them.
My family makes fun of me forthat and my team even sent me a
DoorDash gift card because theyknow how much I love food.
It was funny, but food makes mehappy.
I also listen to music, I watchshows and just chill.
I think I know that in fiveyears I would no longer be in
(23:13):
the technology industry.
A lot of us leave the industryto be farmers or do something
that has nothing to do withdevices.
My dream is to be inhospitality and own my own
resort, so we will see.
Speaker 3 (23:29):
Well, I would love to come check out that resort when
it's ready, and Lainey and Icould spend a weekend there, as
you're, maybe we'll do a podcast, we'll share a podcast.
Speaker 2 (23:34):
I think we need to, like you know, an experience
podcast where we maybe even,like you know, take our
listeners or tune them in.
It's important to get in touchwith what people need by
experiencing it.
Speaker 3 (23:48):
Yeah, but I love that you said music.
That's a big one for me too,and food for sure.
Speaker 4 (23:54):
Of course, you too will get an invite and
membership where you can come inwhenever you want.
I used to play guitar and I'mtrying to get back into it.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
Wow, how cool.
Well, we are there for it.
Tell us a little bit more aboutyour advice for our listeners
who might be struggling.
We hear a lot from the CMTcommunity about struggling in
(24:24):
the workplace physically thephysical demands of maybe being
on their feet all day, or thefatigue being worried that their
employer won't be able to makethe accommodations, being
worried that they might have toredirect their entire career
path to accommodate theirdisability better, and I feel
like there's a lot of justanxiety around employment and
(24:45):
disability.
What advice would you give, assomeone who lives that every day
, to anyone in our community?
Speaker 4 (24:54):
For individuals with disabilities navigating the
professional world, my advice isto be your own advocate.
Don't be afraid to speak upabout your needs and ensure that
your workplace provides thenecessary accommodations.
Building a support networkwithin your organization can
also be incredibly helpful.
Find allies who understand yourchallenges and can advocate on
(25:15):
your behalf when needed.
It's also important to educateothers about your disability,
helping them understand yourperspective.
Finally, remember that yourdisability is a strength, not a
weakness.
It brings unique insights andskills that are invaluable in
the workplace.
Speaker 2 (25:31):
That's helpful for sure, and you obviously.
I loved your beginning part, bythe way.
I keep going back to youngblack.
Speaker 3 (25:39):
What was the other part?
Disabled, Disabled.
I keep going back to youngblack.
What was the other?
Speaker 2 (25:41):
part Disabled, disabled.
I just focus on the young part.
I don't know why.
Maybe because I'm not that Well, I guess I'm not black also, so
I guess there's that, but it'sstrange to ask someone so young
this question.
However, you are wise beyondyour years and when you think
back to you, know your life andthe things that you now know,
(26:10):
like about you, know themistakes we all make mistakes.
Like, if you could go back andyou know, tell your old self
something, give your old self arecommendation for how to do
something differently, whatwould that be?
I've learned, is that nothing?
Speaker 4 (26:24):
lasts forever.
Obstacles and problems aretemporary, even when they feel
overwhelming.
In high school, I faced one ofthe darkest periods of my life.
I was dealing with a chronicillness that left me in
excruciating pain for months onend, waiting for an appointment
at the children's hospital.
The pain was so intense andconstant and I had no relief, no
(26:46):
medication, no answers, justthe waiting.
It drove me to the brink ofdespair and I found myself
feeling suicidal because itseemed like there was no end in
sight During those months, ifsomeone had told me that one day
I would be fine, that I wouldlearn to manage it and move
forward, I wouldn't havebelieved them.
It felt impossible to seebeyond the pain.
(27:08):
But time passed and I dideventually find a way to manage
my illness and live a fullerlife.
That experience taught me aprofound lesson in resilience
and the temporary nature ofsuffering.
This lesson came back to meafter I graduated with my
master's degree.
I went through over 40interviews before finally
landing my first full-timeposition.
(27:28):
It was another test of patienceand perseverance.
I watched as my able-bodiedpeers, classmates and friends
secured their jobs, often muchearlier than I did.
I had a fake friend, whom Ithought was a close friend
mocked me for it.
It was disheartening to feellike I was constantly behind,
even though I knew I had theskills and drive to succeed.
(27:49):
But I kept pushing forward,believing that my time would
come.
When I finally did receive a joboffer, I was 25 years old and
it came with a six-figure salary.
That's not something I say tobe obnoxious, but to highlight
that, despite the delays and thesetbacks, I ultimately ended up
in a position that was morerewarding than I could have
(28:10):
imagined.
I was the last among my peersto get an offer, but I ended up
making more than many of them.
It was a reminder that life'schallenges, no matter how
daunting, often lead to greateropportunities and blessings.
The universe has a way ofworking things out, even when it
feels like everything isfalling apart.
This perspective has been aguiding force in my life,
(28:32):
teaching me to trust the processand keep moving forward, no
matter how tough things get.
Speaker 3 (28:38):
Yeah, I mean, I think a lot of us forget, because
when we're in it, it feels likewe're going to be stuck there
forever.
Whether that's emotional orphysical pain, whether that's
relationship problems, whetherthat's work problems, right, we
feel like we're stuck andthere's no way out.
But time has a way of kind ofsorting things out and finding
(29:03):
solutions and navigating thosechallenges.
So thank you for reminding usof that Before our last question
is there anything that youwould like to share that you
haven't shared with us yet?
Speaker 4 (29:16):
I think, for your listeners, I want you to believe
in the power of manifestationcoupled with strategy and
execution.
I have gotten this far becauseI manifested my career, but I
just didn't think it would bethis soon.
So when you manifest, beprepared for the universe to
reward you with it, and there isno going back.
Speaker 3 (29:34):
I love that you're strategic and still spiritual.
You know like that combinationis so, so powerful.
Speaker 2 (29:43):
Yeah.
So, delaney, we'd like to end.
I mean, I feel like you'veanswered this throughout, but
let's give you another chance.
What we ask our guests, whatdoes embrace it mean to you?
Speaker 4 (29:56):
To me, embrace it means accepting yourself fully,
including your challenges andimperfections.
It's about recognizing thatyour experiences, both good and
bad, are integral to who you areEmbracing.
It means not hiding from yourdisability or mental health
struggles, but instead usingthem as a source of strength.
It's about finding power invulnerability and turning
(30:20):
challenges into opportunities.
When you embrace your wholeself, you open the door to
growth, resilience and trueempowerment.
It's a mindset that allows youto live authentically and
unapologetically.
Speaker 2 (30:33):
You're hired.
We have each other's openings.
Speaker 3 (30:43):
I don't know if we can afford to lady, but we
definitely could.
Um, thank you, we love that.
I love that definition.
Thank you so much.
That's just such a holistic wayof looking at.
We'd love to share your socialmedia with everyone.
So your Instagram isDelaneyNovorcom and Instagram is
(31:03):
also at DelaneyNovor.
We'll be sure to post that inthe show notes for everyone to
follow you and see all of yourcool content and AI videos.
I love it.
It's such a cool way ofspotlighting your talents and
the way that you see the world.
So thank you for sharing thisafternoon with us, delaney, and
(31:24):
sharing your story and yourwisdom and all of your success.
I know we have some contacts inthe disability community that
we might be collaborating onsome future projects with, so
I'm excited to explore that andsee what comes of that as well
and how you continue to justbreak those glass ceilings.
Speaker 2 (31:43):
Absolutely.
It was a pleasure meeting you,delaney and, honestly, probably
Estella is so good at editing,there will be no delays.
But one thing I can tell you,as someone who has ADD and
whatnot, like this talking aboutself-care, the delay part
itself you actually um the word.
(32:03):
It's a like a Hebrew word,mitzvah, which means to do a
good deed, and it's almost likeme.
Having to slow down is a goodthing, like.
So that's another Stella and Ionce did an episode on um um.
It's one of our favorite, myfavorite episodes.
Of course, I can't rememberwhat episode number ADD, but it
(32:26):
was about the gifts that youknow having a disability like
gives you and you're giving thegifts of teaching people
patience and teaching peopleabout being mindful and
attention to what you're saying,and that is a gift because
people are so fast right, myselflike at the very front to slow
(32:51):
down and listen and have aconversation, even though you
know like I'm not hearing yourvoice, like I'm having to watch,
I'm having to pay attention,and that's a mitzvah, that's a
gift to other people who don'tdo that and who've forgotten
with technology how to do that.
So thank you for that.
Speaker 4 (33:12):
Thank you so much for having me.
I enjoyed being with you tooand answering all your questions
.
I hope your listeners leavethis episode feeling like they
got some few gems.
Thank you again.
Speaker 2 (33:23):
Thank you.
Bye everyone.
Speaker 3 (33:26):
Until next time.
Thanks everyone.
Thanks for listening.
Hey Embracers, Thank you somuch for listening and
supporting the Embrace itpodcast brought to you by
Launchpad 516 Studios executive,produced by George Andriopoulos
and hosted by Laini Ishbia andEstella Lugo.
Our music and sound effects arelicensed through Epidemic Sound
(33:47):
Embrace.
It is hosted with Buzz Brown.
Speaker 2 (33:49):
Do you have a disability related topic you'd
love for us to feature, or couldsomeone you know be a fabulous
guest on our show?
We would love to hear yourcomments and feature them on our
next podcast.
So leave us a voicemail or youcan even send us a text to
631-517-0066.
Speaker 3 (34:09):
Make sure to subscribe to this feed wherever
podcasts are available and leaveus a five-star review on Apple
Podcasts while you're at it.
Follow us at embraceitunderscore podcast on Instagram
and make sure to follow all thegreat podcasts produced by
Launchpad 516 Studios.
Speaker 2 (34:26):
We hope you join us next time and continue to
embrace it.
Welcome to the Embrace it series, where women
with all types of disabilitiescan be real, resourceful and
stylish.
With each episode, you'll walkor roll away with everyday tips,
life hacks and success storiesfrom community leaders and
influencers.
So take off your leg braces andstay a while with Lainey and
Estella.
Speaker 3 (00:26):
Hi, I'm Lainey and I have CMT, and I'm Estella and I
also have CMT, a neuromusculardisorder affecting approximately
2.6 million people worldwide,that's as many as MS.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
We believe disabilities should never get in
the way of looking or feelinggood.
Both of us wear leg braces andhave learned through our own
personal journeys to embrace itBrought to you by Launchpad 516
Studios.
Speaker 3 (00:52):
Each episode is designed to challenge your own
stigmas and beliefs arounddisability.
We want our listeners to getthe most value for their time
spent with us, so we interviewsome of the most empowering
disability badasses in the world.
Through storytelling, personalexperiences and tips, we're all
reminded of our own strengthsand endless potential.
Speaker 2 (01:09):
For more information and exclusive resources, check
out our websites attrend-ablecom and hnf-cureorg,
and don't forget to hit thesubscribe button for future
episodes and special promos.
Speaker 3 (01:30):
Hey Embracers.
Welcome to another episode ofthe Embrace it podcast with
Estella and Lainey.
Hey, lainey.
Hi Estella, so good to see you Iknow and we have Delaney here
today, who is our good to seeyou.
I know and we have Delaney heretoday, who is our special guest
.
We see her on our screen rightnow and we are so excited
because this is definitely goinginto uncharted territory for us
(01:55):
today this subject matter and Ithink it's definitely an
exciting opportunity for us toexplore some digital technology
that we haven't yet been exposedto on our podcast, or maybe our
listeners haven't either.
So today's guest is DelaneyNovor.
She describes herself asunabashedly black, young, female
(02:19):
and disabled.
She is the director of productmanagement at the National
Apartment Association.
She is a tech entrepreneur, amentor and an advocate for
unrepresented professionals.
We want to introduce you, wewant to hear about your story,
but we want to kind of just makean introduction that you will
(02:41):
be using tech-to-voicetechnology for this podcast.
A lot of us are familiar withvoice-to-text, but Delaney uses
text-to-voice and she has alovely digital voice that she'll
be sharing with us today.
So hi, delaney.
Speaker 4 (02:59):
So good to be here.
I use text-to-voice technologybecause I have a mild disability
called dystonia, which affectsmy ability to speak.
This technology has been a gamechanger for me, both personally
and professionally.
It allows me to communicateeffectively in various settings,
from casual conversations tohigh-stakes meetings.
Professionally, it enables meto lead my team, present ideas
(03:24):
and engage in discussionswithout any barriers.
Personally, it's given me theconfidence to participate fully
in social interactions.
I will also say that I can talk, but I hate repeating myself.
I was introduced totext-to-speech in middle school.
When I was in eighth grade Ihad an AAC device, but I barely
used it because other kids foundit weird, so I just continued
(03:46):
to talk verbally.
Then in high school, I had atranscriber with me in every
class, because I also have amild hearing loss.
A transcriber is someone whocan caption events and lectures
in real time.
So my transcriber will be inclass with me and she would have
two synced laptops where shewas captioning the lectures and
dialogues in class for me toread.
(04:07):
If I had to participate orwanted to, I could type what I
wanted to say and she would readit out loud.
That was my experiencethroughout graduate school.
After I had graduated with mymaster's, I warmed up to using
text-to-speech again because Ihad a remote job when I was 25
and I was making six figures, soI had to give presentations,
(04:27):
and that is when I decided touse text-to-speech again.
This tech has opened upopportunities that might
otherwise have been inaccessible, empowering me to live and work
on my own terms.
Speaker 2 (04:38):
So, delaney, this is the coolest thing ever, I mean
honestly.
I mean, not only is this afirst for our podcast, but this
is a first for me personally,having a conversation with
someone who's using this amazingtext to voice technology.
Like I don't even know where tobegin, because it's so cool.
(04:59):
First of all, the voice.
I mean.
I just discovered, by the waypeople who are listening that on
Siri you can change the voice,and so for a minute I had like
an Indian man and then like butmy kids didn't like that.
They thought it was making fun,but it wasn't.
But that's a different story.
Delaney, tell us how does thiswork?
Speaker 4 (05:20):
Thank you.
It is called text to speech ortext to voice.
People at work call me theStephen Hawking of tech because
Stephen was the first mainstreamfigure to use it and bring it
to the mainstream media.
So I have a website open upright now where I can type and
click enter to read it out loud.
Speaker 3 (05:37):
First of all, is that a website that anyone can?
Speaker 4 (05:39):
access.
Yes, it is called Speech Ninjaand it has a $10 subscription
monthly fee.
My job pays for it as part ofmy expenses.
Speaker 3 (05:48):
We definitely want to learn more about you, Delaney,
because you are absolutelyfascinating.
Speaker 2 (05:54):
Can we just start with what is dystonia, because I
don't really know how do youget it?
Is it something that'sinherited?
How did you know you had it?
Speaker 4 (06:04):
Yes, I have dystonia.
Growing up it was cerebralpalsy because dystonia was not
popularly known yet.
But in graduate school Istruggled finding the specific
cerebral palsy that fit my case.
So I was like, hmm, maybe it isdystonic cerebral palsy or it
is dystonia.
It ended up being dystoniabecause when you look up the
symptoms, it was me 100% to a TTo answer your next question.
(06:28):
Growing up with a disability hadits challenges, but it also
taught me resilience andadaptability from a young age.
I learned early on that lifewouldn't always be easy, but
that didn't mean it wasimpossible.
I credit my parents for this alot.
When I was born they nurturedmy confidence and my mom likes
to say I was a diva growing up.
(06:48):
I did not talk until I was fiveyears old, but I was assertive
in what I wanted and I wasattuned to my needs.
I was not afraid to let it beknown.
The personality I was molded tohave was not affected by my
disability.
It was affected by myconfidence and outlook on the
world.
In short, they just treated melike a normal kid.
(07:10):
It also helped that the veryfirst ever disabled person I met
in my life was none other thanStevie Wonder.
I met him when I was sevenyears old.
I am friends with hisgoddaughter, who is the daughter
of the late, legendary, fameddirector John Singleton and
actress Akosha Avija, whostarred in the Color Purple with
Oprah playing her sister.
Meeting Stevie Wonder taught me, disabled or not, the world is
(07:34):
my oyster.
People will respect you if youare the best in what you do and
you embrace yourself to thefullest when you do.
Others will follow and embraceyou too.
Speaker 3 (07:44):
How cool, Stevie Wonder.
That's pretty impressive foryour first interaction with the
disability community.
Speaker 2 (07:51):
You know, looking at, we did a little for our
listeners.
You know, we, because this wasa unique interview, we did a
little, gave Delaney somequestions in advance so that she
could prep.
And I'm looking at ourquestions and I'm like one of
them is you know who was someonewho influenced you as a child
in terms of disability?
And I guess we know the answerto that right.
(08:13):
And obviously you know yourparents, as you mentioned, and
your family have been reallysupportive.
How did you like learn how toadvocate for yourself?
Speaker 4 (08:24):
Yes, definitely.
My parents were my firstadvocates.
They saw that I was reallysmart, so my mom homeschooled me
.
She read me books, taught methe alphabets.
My dad will recite positiveaffirmations.
And then I was sent to anursery school where I proved
that I could hold my own.
They were sending me to schoolin Pampers because I could not
(08:44):
talk at that time.
But every time I needed to usethe bathroom I will ask the
teachers, by pointing at mypants and the bathroom, like,
take me there.
And I was wearing pampers,which I never needed.
So they told my mom to put mein diapers.
Pampers are diapers.
We say pampers in Ghana, but itis diapers here.
So, yeah, from that moment on,my parents knew I was going to
(09:07):
be just fine.
Speaker 3 (09:08):
You were schooled at home for the early years, but
what about college?
Were there any key momentsduring your education that kind
of stand out for you as well?
Speaker 4 (09:19):
School was a mixed experience for me.
On one hand, I was academicallyadvanced and placed in
mainstream classes withable-bodied kids, often being
the only Black girl in the room.
I never needed specialeducation.
By the time I was in fourthgrade, I had already read all
the books in the elementaryschool library and was diving
(09:39):
into high school level books,including legal thrillers by
John Grisham.
I even wanted to be a defenselawyer for a while.
Because of that, my performancewas so high that I skipped
sixth grade and went straight toseventh grade.
On the other hand, being theonly disabled girl in class was
challenging.
I vividly remember PE classes,where I was always picked last
(10:01):
for teams, which constantlyreminded me of my differences.
This feeling followed me allthe way to graduate school.
I had an experience where alecturer randomly assigned
partners for a major simulationcompetition that counted for a
significant part of our grade.
My partner, who was also one ofthe only other black girls in
the class, threw a fit when shefound out she was paired with me
(10:23):
.
She demanded to switch partnersor add another person because
she assumed I would make herlose.
I had to assert that I was morethan qualified, having founded
three startups in college.
In the end, we ended up winningthe competition, placing first
or second out of a class ofaround 70 students.
Speaker 2 (10:42):
Wow, like you just are continuing to be amazing.
You had mentioned that your jobpays for text to voice
technology.
I'm wanting to say speech tovoice, but text to voice
technology.
Can you tell us a little bitabout your job, what you do
there and kind of like yourbasically your journey with
(11:06):
mental health and to becomingthis?
I guess your official title isthe Director of Product
Management at the NationalApartment Association.
Speaker 4 (11:17):
Yes, sure.
So I work at National ApartmentAssociation.
We are an association thatserves the rental housing
community.
We offer resources and productlines that our members use.
Our members are usuallyproperty management companies
that own residential buildingsrenters live in and we have
guidelines that our membersfollow to stay aligned with the
(11:37):
regulations the government tasks.
So, because we have productlines such as Click and Lease,
which is our major revenuegenerator, and we provide lease
documents and templates propertymanagement companies can use,
we have our software that Imanage with a team.
I manage a team of seven wherewe keep our product lines moving
, and I am also the youngest onmy team, so we laugh every time
(11:59):
they call me madam, but they'rethe best and it means a lot when
they say I am the best bossthey ever had.
Speaker 3 (12:07):
I can see why I mean that's.
That's pretty wild and I'm sureyou experience.
You know that peopleunderestimate you right when
they first meet you and how youare probably constantly breaking
people's stigmas andexpectations of when they see
you and what you truly arecapable of.
(12:29):
Can you talk a little bit aboutwhat that's been like?
Did you come across that whileinterviewing for positions?
Because I can imagine, withthis type of technology, we're
recording this podcast right nowand there is a pause and you
require a pause to answer thesequestions, to type out your
(12:49):
answers and then for the speechtechnology to start.
So what has been your approachto breaking these stigmas and
educating people abouttechnology and accommodations in
the workplace?
Speaker 4 (13:04):
My story is one of resilience and strategic
determination.
As a Black disabled woman, I'veconsistently found myself in
situations where I've beenunderestimated, both in life and
in the workplace.
This underdog status has drivenme to stay five steps ahead,
ensuring that I outsmart andoutmaneuver those who doubt me.
I've always thrived onchallenges, using them as
(13:26):
opportunities to showcase mystrengths and capabilities.
My journey has taught me theimportance of strategy, and I've
made it my mission to eatstrategy for breakfast, just as
Kamala Harris says, she eats nofor breakfast.
When faced with a no, I see itas a challenge to turn it into a
yes, leveraging my skills andpersuasion and my ability to
(13:48):
present the bigger picture frommy perspective.
Throughout my career, I'veconsistently demonstrated that
being underestimated can be apowerful advantage.
It fuels my drive to exceedexpectations and to secure
victories that others never sawcoming, whether it's in the
boardroom or the broader scopeof life.
I've learned to turn doubt intodetermination, ensuring that I
(14:09):
always come out on top.
My story is one of perseverance, strategy and the unwavering
belief that I can and willovercome any obstacle placed in
my path.
Speaker 2 (14:18):
Amazing and not surprising at all, given how
bright you are, young and brightthat you have done so much
writing Like you.
Have tons of articles out thereand one in particular really
grabbed me, the title especially, and I think our listeners will
(14:41):
really appreciate the title andthe meaning and I want to just
kind of quote, if it's okay you,delaney, in your article that's
called the Two Out of Ten Days,you wrote on the bad days which
typically occur about two outof every 10, my mental and
(15:03):
physical health conspire againstme, sending me into a state of
profound exhaustion and despair.
I mean, I think a lot of peoplewith disabilities and without
can relate, moms especially ingeneral.
I let's just the list is, youknow, endless, but you know
(15:26):
especially people withdisabilities.
Can you share a story, aspecific story, from one out of
those two out of ten days andhow you navigated that day one
of the two?
Speaker 4 (15:39):
out of ten days.
That stands out to me happenedduring a critical project at
work.
I woke up feeling completelydrained, both mentally and
physically, yet I had importantmeetings lined up.
I pushed myself to get throughthe day, relying heavily on my
text-to-speech technology tocommunicate.
It was exhausting, but Imanaged to deliver what was
(15:59):
needed.
The aftermath taught me that,while pushing through is
sometimes necessary, it'sequally important to acknowledge
when to take a step back.
As an executive, you reallyneed your second hand.
I was operating at full speedwithout one, so I am glad we now
added a senior manager on myteam who is my second hand, and
it has been very helpful.
(16:19):
That experience reinforced theneed for balance and self-care
in my life.
Work will always be there, butyour health won't.
That is what one of my mentorstaught me a few years ago, and
she was so right.
Speaker 3 (16:31):
Especially when we're doing work that we're
passionate about and we might bemore likely to burn out.
I find myself burning outsometimes to big projects or big
events and you're going fullspeed and then you just kind of
hit that wall and you forgetthat our bodies are limited
right and our health and ourenergies have limits to them,
(16:52):
and to honor that and to notlook at that as a negative thing
, we'll be right back this isgeorge, fred and jason, the
co-leaders of speak,interrupting to say that we hope
(17:13):
you're enjoying this episode,but please make sure to check
out our new show, the speakpodcast, another great show
produced by launchpad 516Studios.
Speaker 5 (17:23):
New episodes available every week on all of
your favorite podcast platforms.
Speaker 6 (17:28):
Each Speak Talk is about six to 10 minutes in
length, and the talks are givenin storytelling format.
There are three key moments ineach Speak Talk the moment of
truth, the moment oftransformation and the moment of
impact.
We host pop-up events all overthe world, and now we're
bringing our talks to yourdevice.
Speaker 5 (17:49):
Join us on the Speak podcast as our speakers step
onto the stage and into thespotlight with impactful ideas
and stories.
Speaker 1 (17:58):
We'll let you get back to the show you were
listening to.
Another great podcast fromLaunchpad 516 Studios.
Speaker 3 (18:08):
You're tuning in to Embrace it with Lainey Anastella
, brought to you by Launchpad516 Studios.
You talk also a lot about theintersection of mental health
and disability, which you knowwe talk about obviously a lot on
this podcast, lainey and I.
You know we talk aboutobviously a lot on this podcast,
lainey and I, about just theemotional navigation required to
(18:28):
live with a disability orchronic illness.
Can you talk to us a little bitabout your experience with that
intersection and how youbalance or navigate both of
those as well?
Speaker 4 (18:38):
Mental health and physical disability are closely
intertwined in my life.
The daily challenges ofmanaging a disability can take a
toll on mental health, leadingto stress, anxiety or even
depression.
Conversely, mental healthstruggles can exacerbate
physical symptoms, creating acycle that's hard to break.
My advice for others in similarsituations is to prioritize
(19:01):
both aspects equally.
Don't ignore mental health justbecause physical symptoms seem
more pressing.
Seeking therapy, practicingmindfulness and building a
strong support system arecrucial steps in managing the
intersection of mental healthand disability.
I will admit that I don'talways take my advice because I
am an overachiever.
(19:21):
I am in the mindset of theunderdog, where I have to prove
everyone wrong and outperformeach day.
My work yields great results,but at what cost?
So I am really trying to findthe right balance.
Speaker 2 (19:33):
Yeah, I mean, you kind of said that in I'm going
to be the Delaney quoter ofarticles here.
In another article calledPushing Through with the Resolve
you said I quote, there arealso times when my drive and
determination lead me to pushthrough, albeit with a heavy
price paid later.
Do you, can you share anexample of that and how you were
(19:57):
able to learn how to balanceyour ambition with self-care?
Speaker 4 (20:02):
There was a time when I was leading a critical
project and I knew pushingthrough was the only option,
despite the toll it would take.
I was dealing with a severeflare-up of my physical symptoms
, but the deadline wasnon-negotiable.
I managed to complete theproject successfully, but it
came at the cost of my health.
I am the very first productmanagement hire my organization
(20:25):
made, so I have been educatingmy organization on what product
management is and best practices, how product strategy can
achieve our business goals andgrowth, et cetera.
So I was doing a pre-writing,recording my scripts for each
slide of every presentation andI had to use AI to help me edit
it, because I am managing a teamof seven, a portfolio of $30
(20:46):
million in assets, and it wastiring.
So I helped me edit my scriptsand save time, but I was accused
of using AI to do all mypresentations.
Some coworkers did notunderstand I was still writing
the scripts.
It was not AI.
They couldn't comprehend.
I am bright, like you said.
So I had to say even StephenHawking had assistants and his
(21:07):
wives helped him write hishour-long lectures.
I think it was a mix of beingintimidated by me and not
realizing that I am that good atwhat I do, and being 28 has
nothing to do with my job.
The aftermath was a period ofrecovery, both physically and
mentally.
This experience taught me that,while determination is
admirable, it's essential torecognize your limits.
(21:28):
It's about finding a balancebetween ambition and self-care,
and understanding that it's okayto step back when needed.
Speaker 3 (21:35):
And I'm sure there are some generational gaps there
as well.
In the workplace, with AItechnology and you know, just
this emergence of intelligencethat we have at our fingertips
now that we can use as tools tooptimize and enhance.
I know I love my chat GBT everyday and I know Lainey enjoys it
(21:58):
as well, and so it is.
We are lucky to have thattechnology at our fingertips now
, but at the same time, there'sstill some stigma and a fear
around that.
You know people are fearingthat their jobs are going to get
lost or they don't quiteunderstand it.
So thank you for sharing thatwith us.
(22:21):
Are there any other copingmechanisms that you personally
use in your daily life to moveforward as a professional woman
with a disability that might behelpful to our listeners.
Speaker 2 (22:36):
And also like self-care tools.
You know, not just professionaltools, oh yeah, not just
professional tools, but thingswhen we're talking about
balancing the mental health andyour professional
responsibilities.
If there's any tools you use.
Speaker 4 (22:50):
Yes, I treat myself every Friday.
I like to do takeout on Friday,where I order new food and
delight in them.
My family makes fun of me forthat and my team even sent me a
DoorDash gift card because theyknow how much I love food.
It was funny, but food makes mehappy.
I also listen to music, I watchshows and just chill.
I think I know that in fiveyears I would no longer be in
(23:13):
the technology industry.
A lot of us leave the industryto be farmers or do something
that has nothing to do withdevices.
My dream is to be inhospitality and own my own
resort, so we will see.
Speaker 3 (23:29):
Well, I would love to come check out that resort when
it's ready, and Lainey and Icould spend a weekend there, as
you're, maybe we'll do a podcast, we'll share a podcast.
Speaker 2 (23:34):
I think we need to, like you know, an experience
podcast where we maybe even,like you know, take our
listeners or tune them in.
It's important to get in touchwith what people need by
experiencing it.
Speaker 3 (23:48):
Yeah, but I love that you said music.
That's a big one for me too,and food for sure.
Speaker 4 (23:54):
Of course, you too will get an invite and
membership where you can come inwhenever you want.
I used to play guitar and I'mtrying to get back into it.
Speaker 3 (24:02):
Wow, how cool.
Well, we are there for it.
Tell us a little bit more aboutyour advice for our listeners
who might be struggling.
We hear a lot from the CMTcommunity about struggling in
(24:24):
the workplace physically thephysical demands of maybe being
on their feet all day, or thefatigue being worried that their
employer won't be able to makethe accommodations, being
worried that they might have toredirect their entire career
path to accommodate theirdisability better, and I feel
like there's a lot of justanxiety around employment and
(24:45):
disability.
What advice would you give, assomeone who lives that every day
, to anyone in our community?
Speaker 4 (24:54):
For individuals with disabilities navigating the
professional world, my advice isto be your own advocate.
Don't be afraid to speak upabout your needs and ensure that
your workplace provides thenecessary accommodations.
Building a support networkwithin your organization can
also be incredibly helpful.
Find allies who understand yourchallenges and can advocate on
(25:15):
your behalf when needed.
It's also important to educateothers about your disability,
helping them understand yourperspective.
Finally, remember that yourdisability is a strength, not a
weakness.
It brings unique insights andskills that are invaluable in
the workplace.
Speaker 2 (25:31):
That's helpful for sure, and you obviously.
I loved your beginning part, bythe way.
I keep going back to youngblack.
Speaker 3 (25:39):
What was the other part?
Disabled, Disabled.
I keep going back to youngblack.
What was the other?
Speaker 2 (25:41):
part Disabled, disabled.
I just focus on the young part.
I don't know why.
Maybe because I'm not that Well, I guess I'm not black also, so
I guess there's that, but it'sstrange to ask someone so young
this question.
However, you are wise beyondyour years and when you think
back to you, know your life andthe things that you now know,
(26:10):
like about you, know themistakes we all make mistakes.
Like, if you could go back andyou know, tell your old self
something, give your old self arecommendation for how to do
something differently, whatwould that be?
I've learned, is that nothing?
Speaker 4 (26:24):
lasts forever.
Obstacles and problems aretemporary, even when they feel
overwhelming.
In high school, I faced one ofthe darkest periods of my life.
I was dealing with a chronicillness that left me in
excruciating pain for months onend, waiting for an appointment
at the children's hospital.
The pain was so intense andconstant and I had no relief, no
(26:46):
medication, no answers, justthe waiting.
It drove me to the brink ofdespair and I found myself
feeling suicidal because itseemed like there was no end in
sight During those months, ifsomeone had told me that one day
I would be fine, that I wouldlearn to manage it and move
forward, I wouldn't havebelieved them.
It felt impossible to seebeyond the pain.
(27:08):
But time passed and I dideventually find a way to manage
my illness and live a fullerlife.
That experience taught me aprofound lesson in resilience
and the temporary nature ofsuffering.
This lesson came back to meafter I graduated with my
master's degree.
I went through over 40interviews before finally
landing my first full-timeposition.
(27:28):
It was another test of patienceand perseverance.
I watched as my able-bodiedpeers, classmates and friends
secured their jobs, often muchearlier than I did.
I had a fake friend, whom Ithought was a close friend
mocked me for it.
It was disheartening to feellike I was constantly behind,
even though I knew I had theskills and drive to succeed.
(27:49):
But I kept pushing forward,believing that my time would
come.
When I finally did receive a joboffer, I was 25 years old and
it came with a six-figure salary.
That's not something I say tobe obnoxious, but to highlight
that, despite the delays and thesetbacks, I ultimately ended up
in a position that was morerewarding than I could have
(28:10):
imagined.
I was the last among my peersto get an offer, but I ended up
making more than many of them.
It was a reminder that life'schallenges, no matter how
daunting, often lead to greateropportunities and blessings.
The universe has a way ofworking things out, even when it
feels like everything isfalling apart.
This perspective has been aguiding force in my life,
(28:32):
teaching me to trust the processand keep moving forward, no
matter how tough things get.
Speaker 3 (28:38):
Yeah, I mean, I think a lot of us forget, because
when we're in it, it feels likewe're going to be stuck there
forever.
Whether that's emotional orphysical pain, whether that's
relationship problems, whetherthat's work problems, right, we
feel like we're stuck andthere's no way out.
But time has a way of kind ofsorting things out and finding
(29:03):
solutions and navigating thosechallenges.
So thank you for reminding usof that Before our last question
is there anything that youwould like to share that you
haven't shared with us yet?
Speaker 4 (29:16):
I think, for your listeners, I want you to believe
in the power of manifestationcoupled with strategy and
execution.
I have gotten this far becauseI manifested my career, but I
just didn't think it would bethis soon.
So when you manifest, beprepared for the universe to
reward you with it, and there isno going back.
Speaker 3 (29:34):
I love that you're strategic and still spiritual.
You know like that combinationis so, so powerful.
Speaker 2 (29:43):
Yeah.
So, delaney, we'd like to end.
I mean, I feel like you'veanswered this throughout, but
let's give you another chance.
What we ask our guests, whatdoes embrace it mean to you?
Speaker 4 (29:56):
To me, embrace it means accepting yourself fully,
including your challenges andimperfections.
It's about recognizing thatyour experiences, both good and
bad, are integral to who you areEmbracing.
It means not hiding from yourdisability or mental health
struggles, but instead usingthem as a source of strength.
It's about finding power invulnerability and turning
(30:20):
challenges into opportunities.
When you embrace your wholeself, you open the door to
growth, resilience and trueempowerment.
It's a mindset that allows youto live authentically and
unapologetically.
Speaker 2 (30:33):
You're hired.
We have each other's openings.
Speaker 3 (30:43):
I don't know if we can afford to lady, but we
definitely could.
Um, thank you, we love that.
I love that definition.
Thank you so much.
That's just such a holistic wayof looking at.
We'd love to share your socialmedia with everyone.
So your Instagram isDelaneyNovorcom and Instagram is
(31:03):
also at DelaneyNovor.
We'll be sure to post that inthe show notes for everyone to
follow you and see all of yourcool content and AI videos.
I love it.
It's such a cool way ofspotlighting your talents and
the way that you see the world.
So thank you for sharing thisafternoon with us, delaney, and
(31:24):
sharing your story and yourwisdom and all of your success.
I know we have some contacts inthe disability community that
we might be collaborating onsome future projects with, so
I'm excited to explore that andsee what comes of that as well
and how you continue to justbreak those glass ceilings.
Speaker 2 (31:43):
Absolutely.
It was a pleasure meeting you,delaney and, honestly, probably
Estella is so good at editing,there will be no delays.
But one thing I can tell you,as someone who has ADD and
whatnot, like this talking aboutself-care, the delay part
itself you actually um the word.
(32:03):
It's a like a Hebrew word,mitzvah, which means to do a
good deed, and it's almost likeme.
Having to slow down is a goodthing, like.
So that's another Stella and Ionce did an episode on um um.
It's one of our favorite, myfavorite episodes.
Of course, I can't rememberwhat episode number ADD, but it
(32:26):
was about the gifts that youknow having a disability like
gives you and you're giving thegifts of teaching people
patience and teaching peopleabout being mindful and
attention to what you're saying,and that is a gift because
people are so fast right, myselflike at the very front to slow
(32:51):
down and listen and have aconversation, even though you
know like I'm not hearing yourvoice, like I'm having to watch,
I'm having to pay attention,and that's a mitzvah, that's a
gift to other people who don'tdo that and who've forgotten
with technology how to do that.
So thank you for that.
Speaker 4 (33:12):
Thank you so much for having me.
I enjoyed being with you tooand answering all your questions
.
I hope your listeners leavethis episode feeling like they
got some few gems.
Thank you again.
Speaker 2 (33:23):
Thank you.
Bye everyone.
Speaker 3 (33:26):
Until next time.
Thanks everyone.
Thanks for listening.
Hey Embracers, Thank you somuch for listening and
supporting the Embrace itpodcast brought to you by
Launchpad 516 Studios executive,produced by George Andriopoulos
and hosted by Laini Ishbia andEstella Lugo.
Our music and sound effects arelicensed through Epidemic Sound
(33:47):
Embrace.
It is hosted with Buzz Brown.
Speaker 2 (33:49):
Do you have a disability related topic you'd
love for us to feature, or couldsomeone you know be a fabulous
guest on our show?
We would love to hear yourcomments and feature them on our
next podcast.
So leave us a voicemail or youcan even send us a text to
631-517-0066.
Speaker 3 (34:09):
Make sure to subscribe to this feed wherever
podcasts are available and leaveus a five-star review on Apple
Podcasts while you're at it.
Follow us at embraceitunderscore podcast on Instagram
and make sure to follow all thegreat podcasts produced by
Launchpad 516 Studios.
Speaker 2 (34:26):
We hope you join us next time and continue to
embrace it.
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Therapy Gecko
An unlicensed lizard psychologist travels the universe talking to strangers about absolutely nothing. TO CALL THE GECKO: follow me on https://www.twitch.tv/lyleforever to get a notification for when I am taking calls. I am usually live Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays but lately a lot of other times too. I am a gecko.