“Enable: The Disability Podcast” is gaining attention for its engaging exploration of the experiences of individuals with disabilities. In a recent episode, reporter Eric Conklin shares his personal journey with Asperger’s syndrome, detailing significant moments from his childhood that shaped his understanding of himself and his interactions with others.
Conklin discusses his early diagnosis, which included undergoing a sleep study, and reflects on the medications he took for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One poignant moment he recalls is asking, “Is this medication going to help me make friends?” This question underscores the emotional complexities faced by many children navigating social situations while on the autism spectrum.
The podcast not only highlights personal stories but also delves into the broader challenges that adults with similar experiences encounter. Conklin emphasizes the strengths that can emerge from being differently abled, offering listeners a nuanced perspective on disability.
Hosts with Unique Stories
The hosts of “Enable” bring their own remarkable backgrounds to the podcast. Geoff Herbert, who has profound binaural hearing loss, works as a reporter and content supervisor for syracuse.com. Despite facing significant challenges, he has enjoyed a successful career as a DJ for 25 years. Herbert has learned to communicate through multiple methods, including lipreading and assistive technology. His approach to life showcases resilience and adaptability.
Kurt Hower, with over 35 years at Advance Local, is a prominent figure in both media and community advocacy. Living with ankylosing spondylitis—an inflammatory disease that affects the spine—Hower encourages a focus on contributions to society rather than limitations. His leadership roles, including chairing the Board Development Committee for the Central PA Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation, reflect his commitment to creating positive change.
Upcoming Job Fair Focused on Inclusivity
In conjunction with the podcast, the hosts will co-host the Community at Work Job Fair on October 16, 2025, at CNY Works in Syracuse, N.Y. This free event aims to connect adults with physical and mental disabilities to inclusive employers. Participants will have the opportunity to explore various industries and learn about job openings from actively hiring companies.
The job fair will also feature a panel discussion led by Herbert and Hower, focusing on hiring tips and accessibility options. This discussion will be recorded and later featured in an episode of “Enable,” further expanding the podcast’s reach and impact. While the fair is specifically designed for individuals with diverse abilities, all community members are welcome to attend.
For more information about the job fair, interested parties can visit communityatworkjobfair.com. Participation is free for both job seekers and employers, reinforcing the event’s commitment to inclusivity and community support.
“Enable: The Disability Podcast” releases new episodes weekly on platforms such as YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and iHeart. For updates, listeners can follow the podcast on social media at facebook.com/enablepodcast or @enablepodcast on Instagram and TikTok.
