Author and Ablr CEO, John Samuel, brings a resonating message that echoes from the tallest mountain tops; that being, a more accessible world is possible—when we see the amazing opportunities in our differences. After a diagnosis of a degenerative eye disease, John Samuel’s life—and his chance at success—started to vanish. In a world systemically unequipped for accessibility, disability inclusion is often left out of conversations about diversity. For people with disabilities, it can feel impossible to adapt and thrive when you’re already set up for failure.
But John Samuel was on a mission of discovery and enlightenment that is certain to empower everyone. His 30,000 mile journey against inevitable blindness and search for acceptance took him on travels around the world, to hiking mountains and finding love and raising a family, all highlighted in his amazing book, Don’t Ask the Blind Guy for Directions: A 30,000-Mile Journey for Love, Confidence and a Sense of Belonging.
This heartfelt memoir is an important call towards acceptance and a powerful resource for change for both professionals with disabilities and individuals working to create an inclusive culture at any organization. It empowers one to accept themselves and others, breaks down barriers, and rebuilds a world where everyone belongs.
John Samuel is the CEO and cofounder of Ablr, a disability inclusion and accessibility business working to remove barriers that hinder people with disabilities from all aspects of life. In college, he was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic and degenerative disease that caused him to lose his eyesight. After struggling to belong and succeed in the sighted world, John now empowers both individuals and organizations to overcome accessibility challenges and build more inclusive environments. Learn more at www.johngsamuel.com where you can connect with him and purchase his book, Don’t Ask the Blind Guy for Directions, as well as watch his incredible TEDx talk. This is a must-listen power-hour every listener will enjoy!
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