Unapologetically Whole
Unapologetically Whole is the podcast for anyone who’s ever felt invisible while holding everyone else together. Hosted by attorney, advocate, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada-Olley, this show is a raw, honest invitation to reclaim your story and rebuild your sense of self without abandoning your responsibilities or values. Through deeply personal storytelling and candid conversations, Lola explores the layers we carry: as caregivers, professionals, parents, partners, and cycle-breakers navigating cultural stigma, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness in a world that often asks us to disappear.
Each episode offers a practical, three-part framework for transformation: Recognize the lane you’re in, Redefine success beyond external validation, and Reimagine what it means to truly thrive. You’ll hear real lessons from lived experience—how to hold the tension between vigilance and joy, how to honor incremental progress, and how to shine your light in a world that can feel dark. Whether you’re a caregiver, a leader, or simply someone searching for permission to exist beyond your roles, Unapologetically Whole bridges the gap between personal healing and professional reinvention, creating space for authentic community and honest growth.
This podcast is the companion to Lola’s forthcoming memoir, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story, coming June 2026. If these conversations resonate with you, help us extend the reach—subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a rating or review. Your voice helps others find the hope, healing, and wholeness they deserve.
Unapologetically Whole
Workplace Neuroinclusion Strategy: Some Lessons Learned
In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, LolaDada-Olley interviews Danielle Meadows, an executive director at JPMorganChase, about the importance of disability employment and the initiatives takenby the Business Solution Team (BEST) to promote neuro-inclusion. They discussthe evolution of the BEST program, common misconceptions about disabilityinclusion, the challenges faced in the employment landscape, and thesignificance of public policy in supporting individuals with disabilities. Theconversation highlights the success stories of employees and the role of jobcoaches in fostering an inclusive work environment.
Takeaways
- Disability Employment Awareness Month is crucial for promoting inclusion.
- The BEST program focuses on neuro-inclusion strategies globally.
- Misconceptions about disability often hinder employment opportunities.
- Transportation remains a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities.
- Public policy needs to adapt to support working individuals with disabilities.
- Job coaching is essential for success in the workplace.
- Collaboration among organizations enhances disability employment efforts.
- Recognition from institutions like the UN validates the program's success.
- Success stories demonstrate the potential of individuals with disabilities.
- The program has grown significantly since its inception in 2019.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disability Employment Awareness Month
05:11 Misconceptions About Disability Inclusion
09:29 Recognition and Growth of the BEST Program
12:33 Challenges in Disability Employment
17:26 The Importance of Public Policy
21:46 The Role of Job Coaches
26:54 Success Stories and Business Outcomes
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