Breaking Barriers: How Disability Inclusion is Changing Entertainment
At Yes I Can Unity Through Music & Education (YIC), our mission has always been about connecting students with real-world opportunities in the creative industries.
One of the ways we make that happen is through our Breaking The Biz podcast — a series of in-depth interviews with creative professionals who share their journeys, insights, and advice. For our students, these conversations are more than just inspiring stories; they can be the spark that leads to internships, mentorships, and even career opportunities. Sometimes, a connection made during or after a podcast appearance becomes the bridge between a student’s passion and their first step into the industry.
This month, we’re spotlighting nine guests from recent episodes whose work champions disability inclusion in entertainment — not only breaking into the business themselves, but breaking it open for others!
Storytelling Without Limits
Alex Astrella – Diagnosed on the autism spectrum at age two, Alex now runs Blu Star Productions, creating award-winning films and opportunities for disabled artists. “You’re paying it forward for the next group of disabled creatives,” he says. Full episode available here.
Zian Chavez – Producer of We Are the Most Beautiful People, a documentary challenging ableism and redefining beauty worldwide. Zian’s work sparks global conversations about representation. Full episode available here.
Jason Weissbrod – Co-founder of Spectrum Laboratory, Jason empowers neurodivergent artists to create original films and music with Hollywood pros. His mantra: “Show people what they can do, and magic will ensue!” Full episode available here.
Featured Project — Produced by Zian Chavez
We are the Most Beautiful People | Adults with Disabilities is a documentary based in Portland, Oregon. We have won many prestigious film laurels from Film Festivals around the world. Their groundbreaking film challenges societal norms, exploring the profound themes of ableism, racism, intersectionality, and the distinction between Disability Rights and Disability Justice. (click to read more)
Music and Live Events for All
Carly Webster – Started a nonprofit at 15 years old to make concerts accessible. Now she consults with artists, delivers TEDx talks, and produces events so “no one has to experience barriers accessing music.” Full episode available here.
Comedy With No Barriers
Steve Way – As a comedian and actor with muscular dystrophy, Steve uses sharp humor to challenge stereotypes. Seen on Hulu’s Ramy, he proves audiences are ready to laugh with, not at, disabled comedians. Full episode available here.
Accessibility Behind the Scenes
Jeff Prushko – A wheelchair user and production expert at Videndum, Jeff embeds inclusion into film and TV workflows. “Fostering a more inclusive industry isn’t just the right thing – it’s essential for storytelling.” Full episode available here.
Alex Howard – A low-vision media professional and advocate for audio description, Alex helps ensure accessibility is built into storytelling from script to final cut.
Advocacy and Community Building
Judi Uttal – Founder of the Autism in Entertainment Workgroup, Judi connects neurodivergent talent with Hollywood opportunities, pushing for authentic hiring and representation.
Nitika Chopra – Founder of Chronicon, Nitika creates community for people with chronic illness. “Thriving with a disability or chronic illness is not only possible—it’s powerful.”
The Chronicon Foundation — Created by Nitika Chopra
The Chronicon Foundation is creating a world where people living with chronic illness are not only supported—but economically empowered. Through community, education, and financial access, we help individuals overcome systemic barriers and thrive with dignity, connection, and resilience. (click to learn more)
Why It Matters
These leaders share more than talent – they share a mission: change the system, not the person. By breaking barriers for themselves, they’re breaking the industry open for everyone. And for YIC students, hearing these stories isn’t just about inspiration — it’s about seeing a path forward, making that first introduction, and knowing their own creative voice has a place in the industry.
Stream Breaking The Biz on your favorite podcast platform to hear these conversations in full. Be inspired, learn from industry leaders, and see how inclusion is shaping the future of entertainment.
Know someone whose story should be heard? Apply to be a guest or recommend a creative professional making a difference.