S. 2 Ep 23: Breaking Barriers: Disability, Determination, and Driving Inclusion with Ken Kunken

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In this inspiring episode of Dear HR Diary, Dawn Hart sits down with Ken Kunken, a powerhouse of resilience, purpose, and advocacy. Ken’s journey from a life-altering accident to a successful career in law is nothing short of extraordinary. Through his story, we explore the realities of disability in the workplace—and more importantly, how we can all be agents of change.

Ken shares his firsthand experience overcoming adversity, finding motivation in the face of unimaginable challenges, and the power of a support system that believes in your potential. We dig into the barriers that still exist for individuals with disabilities when it comes to employment and advancement, and Ken offers practical insights into the importance of accommodations, accessibility, and addressing unconscious bias.

From courtroom victories to workplace equity, this episode challenges all of us—leaders, HR pros, and colleagues—to do better and be better.

🔥 Topics Covered:

• Ken’s personal journey and what kept him motivated after becoming quadriplegic
• The power of purpose and perseverance in overcoming obstacles
• The state of employment for people with disabilities—what’s working, what’s not
• Why support systems (personal and professional) make or break success
• Breaking barriers in the legal field and becoming a role model for inclusive success
• Understanding the role of reasonable accommodations in building equitable workplaces
• The need to confront unconscious bias in hiring and promotion decisions
• Celebrating ability, not just “accommodating” disability
• Moving from performative DEI to impactful change

💬 Ken's Quote:

“Adversity doesn’t define us. It refines us. When we start focusing on people’s abilities instead of their limitations, that’s when true inclusion begins.”

📚 Resources Mentioned:

• Job Accommodation Network (JAN) – Guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues
• The ADA National Network – Information and training on the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Disability:– Promoting disability inclusion in business
• EEOC – Disability Discrimination – Federal guidance and resources on workplace rights
• Book Recommendation: "Being Heumann: An Unrepentant Memoir of a Disability Rights Activist" by Judith Heumann
• Book Recommendation: "I Dream of Things That Never Were" by Ken Kunken: https://kenkunken.com/buy-the-book/

📬 Connect with Ken Kunken:

• 📧 Email: [email protected]
•      Website: https://kenkunken.com/
• 📞 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-j-kunken-b4b0a9a8/
• 🎤 Speaker & Advocate: Available for keynotes and DEI panels

🎧 Listen Now wherever you get your HR real talk!
💼 Tag us: #DearHRDiary | #DisabilityInclusion | #ManageWithHart

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Connect with Dawn:
Website: www.managewithhart.com
Instagram: @managewithhart