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‘Speerheading’ Inclusive Opportunities and Finding Employment For Individuals With Disabilities

This episode of the "I Don't Care" podcast features a discussion about Speerhead Beyond, an organization working to improve employment opportunities for people with disabilities, a population with an employment rate of just 21.3 percent. Host Kevin Stevenson speaks with Mitzi Gray about the strategies and inclusive practices being used to close this significant employment gap. The conversation highlights the importance of workplace inclusion and the systemic barriers that people with disabilities face in finding meaningful work.

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By Kevin Stevenson · · EducationEmploymentI Don't CareI Don't Care Podcast
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Key takeaways

01

Only 21.3% of individuals with disabilities are currently employed, representing a major workforce inclusion gap.

02

Speerhead Beyond is an organization actively working to create and expand employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

03

Inclusive hiring practices and targeted support systems are key to improving employment outcomes for this population.

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In a world where opportunities for individuals with disabilities often lag, Speerhead Beyond emerges as a beacon of hope. The company's primary mission is to ensure people with disabilities and their support circles secure meaningful employment, thus enhancing their potential to live fulfilling lives. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of 2023 only 21.3 percent of persons with a disability were employed. Speerhead Beyond, helmed by Mitzi Gray, is challenging this statistic, fostering inclusivity in workplaces across Texas.

As of 2023 only 21.3 percent of persons with a disability were employed.

So, how does Speerhead Beyond bridge the gap between companies and talented individuals with disabilities? What led Mitzi Gray to create such an innovative platform, and how does it benefit both employers and employees?

Tune into this week's episode of "I Don't Care with Kevin Stevenson" host Kevin Stevenson welcomes Mitzi Gray, the owner and director of Speerhead Beyond. In an enlightening conversation, Gray delved into the inception of Speerhead Beyond, shared insight into its operations, and discussed how it is altering the narrative for people with disabilities in the employment sector.

In this episode, the duo discussed:

  • Gray's personal journey from being an educator to launching Speerhead Beyond.
  • The four critical components of Speerhead Beyond's operations and the role of job coaches.
  • How Speerhead Beyond works with schools and businesses to provide vocational training and employment opportunities.

Mitzi Gray, with a background in education and an MBA under her belt, has been instrumental in advancing the cause of individuals with disabilities. A former teacher and behavioral specialist, Mitzi's passion for creating equal opportunities led her to establish Speerhead Beyond. The organization, which started in 2019, has experienced significant growth, supporting numerous individuals with disabilities secure meaningful employment.

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About the Experts

Kevin Stevenson
Kevin Stevenson

Host, I Don't Care Podcast

I Don't Care

Kevin Stevenson is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE) and host of the "I Don't Care" podcast, which covers healthcare leadership and industry topics. He brings experience in healthcare administration and uses the podcast platform to spotlight organizations and individuals making an impact in the healthcare space.

MG
Mitzi Gray

Founder / Leader

Speerhead Beyond

Mitzi Gray is associated with Speerhead Beyond, an organization working to close the employment gap for individuals with disabilities. She is focused on creating inclusive employment opportunities for this underrepresented population, which has an employment rate of approximately 21.3 percent.

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