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What does it mean to thrive as an artist when the world doesn’t always see your full story? In this powerful episode of The Eclectic, host Eloka Oduah sits down with Chad Harper, a songwriter, music producer, and global humanitarian whose journey challenges everything we think we know about disability, inclusion, and success. From navigating life with both physical and neurological disabilities to standing on the global stage at the Grammys, Chad shares how his experiences have shaped his music, mindset, and mission. He opens up about the realities of ADHD in performance, why he chose to work behind the scenes, and how music became his tool for advocacy across continents. You’ll also hear the inspiring story behind his work in Sierra Leone, where he empowered artists with disabilities, and his bold perspective on inclusion, one that shifts the narrative from seeking a seat at the table to building your own. This episode dives deep into: • Invisible vs visible disabilities • The impact of ADHD on creativity and performance • Music as a global tool for advocacy • Breaking stigma around disability in Africa • The power of community, unity, and self-determination If you’re looking for a conversation that is raw, thought-provoking, and deeply inspiring, this episode is for you. For those requiring the podcast transcript, please read it here https://docs.google.com/document/d/17GusWKco22AmuxOODEWtv0WFd7vOg72M/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this episode of The Eclectic Podcast, host Eloka Oduah sits down with mental health expert and disability advocate Nisha Jose for a powerful conversation on the intersection of mental health and disability. While conversations about disability often focus on physical accessibility, the psychological and emotional experiences of persons with disabilities are frequently overlooked. Nisha shares why mental health is not about constant happiness, but about the ability to cope, recover, connect, and live with dignity. Together, we unpack how stigma, systemic inequality, economic barriers, and overprotection can affect self-worth, autonomy, and relationships. The discussion also explores: • The difference between mental health and mental illness • Why persons with disabilities experience higher mental health challenges • The impact of internalized stigma and identity loss • Autonomy, decision-making, and the role of families and caregivers • Practical ways to support and advocate for better psychological inclusion This episode is a reminder that inclusion is incomplete without mental well-being and that every human being’s worth goes far beyond productivity. If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it and join us in advocating for mental health for all. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For those requiring a transcript, please read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XpRaikcqokju6x4fWLgkknS2wVjJIba-/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy Stay eclectic.

⚠️ This episode discusses suicide and mental health. Listener discretionis advised. In this powerful and necessary conversation,The Eclectic Podcast sits down with Chidozie Obianyo, a psychologyresearcher whose work explores how rumination, psychological inflexibility,and meaning in life shape suicidal ideation among persons withdisabilities. Suicide and mental health struggles within thedisability community are rarely talked about, but they are real, complex, anddeeply human. Together, we unpack the hidden emotional battles many peopleface, especially when navigating new disabilities, stigma, social exclusion, orthe struggle to find meaning in difficult life transitions. Chidozie breaks down key concepts from hisresearch in simple, relatable language and shares insights on why people withdisabilities may be more vulnerable to internalized hopelessness, and what canhelp. We explore how meaning-making, community support, acceptance, andcompassionate conversations can reduce suffering and build resilience. This episode aims to open the door forhonesty, understanding, and healing. If you or someone you know is struggling,please reach out to a mental health professional or a trusted support system. For those requiring the podcast transcript, read at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-ak0Y0ivG6YjcxR65qHYy6O4C63GIf3A/view?usp=sharing Please note that the opinions of ourguests do not necessarily reflect those of the  club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World DisabilityAdvocacy

This episode of The Eclectic Podcast features Blessing Micah, sign language interpreter, digital entrepreneur, storyteller, and youth advocate. Blessing is passionate about accessibility and inclusion, and she uses her voice and platforms to spotlight the unspoken struggles of African youth. Through storytelling, digital content, and her upcoming podcast, she is building safe spaces where young people can share their real experiences, connect with others, and find strength in community. In this episode, we talk about: • Blessing’s journey into sign language interpretation, storytelling, and youth advocacy. • The hidden struggles of African youth and why amplifying their voices is crucial. • How digital entrepreneurship can open doors for accessibility and inclusion. • The importance of safe spaces for young people navigating challenges. • The role of storytelling in reshaping societal perceptions about disability and youth leadership. For those requiring the podcast transcript, read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wKJZmrWhVVIsC9eOtNbBsyY4BlVcureZ/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this episode of The Eclectic Podcast, I sit down with Tara Jo Kadlec, founder of Love Your Journey Inc. to explore the intersection of healing, advocacy, and love. Through her work guiding women back to their voice and body wisdom, Tara Jo combines energy healing, somatic practices, and intuitive guidance to help people move through life’s transitions with clarity and self-trust. Her mission is also deeply personal. Inspired by the life and legacy of her late brother Cory, who had Down syndrome, Tara Jo is a passionate advocate for inclusive care and disability rights. Together, we discuss what it means to create spaces where every person feels seen, valued, and celebrated. Join us as we talk about healing from the inside out, honouring our bodies, building resilient communities, and learning how love can be a radical force for change. For those requiring the podcast transcript, read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/14m-oyXEyIeBAxDaG1HEcuCxIi9GoY-w3/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101962272319320992200&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this episode of The Eclectic Podcast, host Eloka Oduah sits down with Amy Bodkin, an Autistic adult, Consultant, and Public Speaker who works with families whose needs fall outside the norm. As a homeschooling parent of two Autistic children with a background in Educational Psychology and Neuropsychology, Amy brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her Holistic Developmental Approach. Together, we explore what it means to reimagine education, support neurodiverse families, and advocate for better treatment of children everywhere. Learn more about Amy’s work at AmyBodkin.com. for those requiring the podcast transcript, read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ofb-4hGa2lNPGhl5f0rPsY2qfjHOvIhC/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this inspiring episode of The Eclectic, host Eloka Oduah sits down with Grace Ochoche, a psychology graduate, model, and young woman with albinism, to explore the power of self-acceptance in navigating stereotypes, stigma, and health challenges. Grace opens up about her journey to embracing her identity, her passion for modelling, and how self-acceptance has fuelled her resilience against harmful stereotypes. She also sheds light on the unique health concerns faced by persons with albinism, the role of mental health, and the importance of advocacy and education in creating more inclusive communities. Her story is a reminder that difference is not a limitation but a unique strength. Tune in for an uplifting and eye-opening conversation that challenges stigma and celebrates authenticity. Let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For those requiring a transcript, please read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yvhHTd6bCA2KR7_S8vvdAPUoxjOKUviISu9D7b0ZoZU/edit?usp=drivesdk Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this episode of The Eclectic Podcast, we sit down with Rtn. Taha Haaziq, Goa’s first 100% visually impaired Group A Gazetted Officer and the visionary behind Purple Fest: Celebrating Diversity. From transforming elections into inclusive spaces to leading India’s first large-scale festival celebrating persons with disabilities, Taha has redefined what leadership and accessibility mean. Join us as we explore his journey through governance, technology, music, and advocacy, and discover how one individual’s vision can inspire systemic change. Press play to listen and let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For those requiring a transcript, please read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/160-FGchGcG2n_HAzb9kQ6IXsNxXqRMyO/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this sensitive, but crucial episode of The Eclectic, we sit down with Alex Kamadu, Executive Director of the International Society of Wheelchair Professionals, to unpack the complexities of wheelchair distribution for persons with disabilities. Far beyond a conversation about mobility aids, this episode looks into the deeper issue of dignity, autonomy, and access. Whether you’re a policymaker, donor, NGO worker, or ally, this episode challenges you to rethink what true inclusion really looks like and calls on all of us to ensure that assistive devices empower. Press play to listen and let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For those requiring a transcript, please read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1li2YBs-8hgvId4MMkOtyC4KMSyDVZQuv/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

In this special episode of The Eclectic, we mark 35 years since the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — a landmark civil rights law that changed the landscape for people with disabilities in the United States and inspired disability rights movements around the world. Our guest, Angie Fuoco, a federal public health and safety expert, ADA Coordinator, DEI educator, and Anti-Ableism & Accessibility Trainer, brings a powerful perspective shaped by decades of advocacy and lived experience. Together, we unpack the milestones achieved under the ADA, explore the persistent systemic barriers that remain, and spotlight the transformative role of inclusive design in building truly accessible communities. Whether you’re a disability rights advocate, policymaker, designer, or ally, this episode offers a thoughtful reflection on what it means to move from compliance to genuine inclusion — and how centring disabled voices is key to driving the next era of progress. Press play to listen and let us know your thoughts in the comment section. For those requiring a transcript, please read at https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lsp71cK1DUQnmGAqBWHPsodXFCi9bn0g/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102186582647928362400&rtpof=true&sd=true Please note that the opinions of our guests do not necessarily reflect those of the club. For more information send a mail to [email protected] Rotary Club of World Disability Advocacy

What does it mean to have control over your body when society sees you as incapable of making choices about it? In this powerful episode of The Eclectic Podcast, host Eloka Oduah explores the often-ignored issue of reproductive rights for people with disabilities. From forced sterilizations to lack of access to inclusive sexual health education and care, disabled individuals continue to face systemic barriers to bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom. Eloka is joined by Winnie Njeri Muthoni, a gender and disability mainstreaming officer, to discuss: • Myths around asexuality, parenting, and consent • The importance of inclusive policies and education • What reproductive justice means for people with disabilities • How to support the movement for autonomy and accessibility This episode challenges taboos, unpacks policy gaps, and uplifts real stories. Because every body deserves choice, freedom, and dignity. Transcript available, send an email to [email protected] to get it.

In this empowering episode of The Eclectic Podcast, we sit down with a remarkable guest who is Deaf, uses a cochlear implant, and has made it her life’s mission to break down barriers in communication, gender equality, and disability inclusion. As a communications specialist, she brings both lived experience and professional insight into what it means to navigate the world with an invisible disability while pushing for visibility, representation, and justice. We talk about: • The layered experience of being Deaf in hearing-dominant spaces • How cochlear implants have shaped her personal and professional life • The intersection of disability and gender in advocacy work • What true accessibility and inclusive communication really look like • The role of storytelling in humanizing disability rights Whether you’re in the disability space, curious about inclusive communication, or just love powerful stories — this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who believes in the power of being heard.

In this episode of The Eclectic, we sit down with Mona Arsenault—an award-winning advocate, inclusion pioneer, and co-founder of Polio Quebec. Her journey began at 16 as Canada’s youngest Brownie leader and evolved into a lifelong commitment to championing the rights of people with disabilities. Mona shares how a single question from a parent changed the course of her life, leading her to create one of Canada’s first fully inclusive Girl Guide units. We dive into her work with post-polio advocacy, her role in shaping emergency egress accessibility standards, and her enduring belief in community, care, and creative leadership. This is more than a story—it’s a blueprint for sustainable, people-centered activism. In this episode, we discuss: • Diagnosing and living with post-polio syndrome • Building Polio Quebec and sustaining it for 40 years • Health equity, inclusive education, and accessible policy • Finding joy in beading and honouring the body’s wisdom • Advice for the next generation of disability advocates Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned changemaker, Mona’s story will inspire you to lead with courage, clarity, and heart.

How can we truly build a sustainable future if it's not inclusive? In this episode of *The Eclectic*, we sit down with **Abhishek Kumar** — lawyer, environmental researcher, and disability rights advocate — to explore how climate action and disability justice must intersect. From founding *The Sangyan* to contributing to global UN policies and leading powerful initiatives like *Build Forward Better*, Abhishek shares his journey of driving change at national and international levels. Join us as we discuss inclusive climate resilience, disability-led activism, and the urgent call to create a world where **we all belong**.

Today on The Eclectic, our guest is Professor Sigamoney Manicka Naicker, a renowned education expert, advocate for inclusive learning, and a key architect of South Africa’s post-apartheid education policies. With a career spanning academia and government, he has played a pivotal role in shaping education policies that aim to bridge systemic gaps for working-class communities. As the first Director of Inclusive Education in South Africa, his work has influenced policies not only in South Africa but also globally. Today, we’ll explore his journey from growing up in a working-class community to becoming a leading voice in inclusive education. We’ll discuss how education policies can better serve marginalized communities, and the ongoing challenges of implementing inclusive education. In this episode, professor Naicker shares: • His personal journey and how his experiences as a product of a working-class childhood has shaped his advocacy for inclusive education. • An understanding of inclusive education. • Some of the biggest challenges he faced in implementing inclusive education policies and lots more. You can connect with professor Naicker on https://www.linkedin.com/in/sigamoney-naicker-0027113 Send us a mail also to [email protected] and follow The Eclectic on facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063709292433 and join the growing community of people who are making life-changing discoveries!