In Good Company with Sarah Gabriel

In our season finale, Sarah Gabriel reflects on the journey so far—sharing highlights of changemakers, lessons from inter-ability businesses, and a vision for a “complete workforce” where people of all abilities are not just included, but essential.  5 Key Takeaways: Start where you are Do it with excellence There is joy in this work Be generous Proof of concept Links: IGC Podcast Audience Survey:...

Meet Gabi and Mary Angelini, the unstoppable mother-daughter duo behind Gabi’s Grounds and Gabi’s PALS. In this episode, you’ll hear about their surprising pivot during the pandemic, the team’s superpowers (spoiler: speedy Justin, organized Lauren, and Gabi’s own adorableness), and how visibility, joy, and hard work are changing minds—and the workforce. From TEDx talks to the Ghostly Gala and drea...

Join us as Kate Wilson, our summer intern and a rising star at Oglethorpe University, shares her journey with Stargardt's disease. Discover how she navigates the workplace, advocates for accessibility, and brings unique perspectives to her team. Kate's insights on disability and perspective are both insightful and inspiring. Don't miss this engaging conversation! Watch on Spotify or Yo...

Ansley Minor, Manager in Development at the Shepherd Hotel in Clemson, South Carolina, shares how her love for the disability community led to a career in hospitality leadership. In this episode, Ansley explains how her team uses tools like weekly “superpower cards” to keep employees growing, why systems must adapt to individuals—not the other way around—and how leadership rooted in empathy drives...

Karah Lindsay joins the show to kick off a special sub-series on disability awareness, starting with a conversation about cerebral palsy and the workplace. With warmth, humor, and clarity, Karah shares about her lived experience with Cerebral Palsy, how it impacts her work and life. From flexible shifts to seating to assuming competence, Karah offers practical advice that’s as useful as it is eye-...

Jeni Smith, founder of SliceAbility Pizza in Cumming, Georgia, shares how her background in hospitality and special education led her to launch a pizzeria with a purpose. SliceAbility meaningfully employs adults with disabilities using clear, structured systems—like color-coded aprons that reflect team members’ progress in the training cycle. From food safety to customer service, team members buil...

We’ll be sprinkling in some bonus episodes spotlighting stellar managers doing good work on the ground. In this conversation, Heather Sudduth, Housekeeping Manager at Shepherd Hotel, shares how she trains and supports a team where 40% of their team members have intellectual or developmental disabilities. From rotating mentorships to positive reinforcement, and stories of role-matching success, Hea...

Pam Kattouf and Pat Miller, co-founders of Beloved Bath, share how their New Jersey-based company blends artisan bath products with a mission to employ individuals with autism, particularly those on the severe end of the spectrum. We discussed a range of topics from matching talent to task to community advocacy. Pam and Pat offer a powerful model for social enterprise in action. Use code Goodco to...

Jacob Blaeser, President of Ventures ATL, explains how their nonprofit directly employs adults with autism to deliver high-precision data management and product fulfillment services. This episode dives into their scalable model, the unique advantages of a neurodiverse team, and how Ventures ATL blends social impact with business discipline.  Special Offer: Ventures ATL is offering a 10% discount o...

Tom D’Eri, co-founder of Rising Tide Car Wash and author of The Power of Potential, shares how his team built a high-performing business employing individuals with autism—achieving just 20% turnover in an industry where 120% is the norm. He discusses how process design, workforce systems, and inclusive hiring practices drive both operational efficiency and social impact. This episode offers practi...

Valerie Herskowitz, founder and CEO of The Chocolate Spectrum, talks about the milestones and challenges of social entrepreneurship, the importance of community education, and what it takes to run a socially responsible business without compromising quality or impact. Use code IGC10 to get 10% off your next Chocolate Spectrum order!  Key Take Aways: Great founders learn from others—find a mentor w...

Jody Tick, Executive Director of Sunflower Bakery, talks about the importance of learner-centered training, strong employer partnerships, and building a continuum of support that helps graduates succeed. From tackling workplace myths to diversifying revenue, Jody offers practical insight into what it takes to build a stronger workforce. PROMO: If you're listening before the end of July 2025 an...

Andy Davenport, founder of Crispy King Treats, shares how he’s building a for-profit bakery with a social mission: to lower the disability unemployment rate by 1%. In this episode, he dives into the realities of running a purpose-driven business, the power of community, and how the workforce can transform when we recognize the unique strengths people with disabilities bring to the table. Key Take...

Ed Lynch, founder of Mychal’s Learning Place, shares how he built a network of social enterprises—including a bakery, café, and print shop—to tackle the 85% unemployment rate among people with developmental disabilities through job training, paid employment, and community integration. Key Take Aways: Surround yourself with people who know what you don’t. Pop-ups are a great way to test and prove y...

Caroline Young, Director at Hope Heals, shares the story and mission of Mend Coffee & Goods.  A cafe and marketplace in the heart of Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood that serves as both a community gathering spot and a platform for inclusive employment. A true embodiment of holistic hospitality. Key Take Aways: - Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of hospitality. - Managers play a critical r...

Jen Wiese, founder of BeeFree, shares her inspiring journey of creating a gluten-free snack company that not only caters to dietary needs but also empowers the disability community through job training and employment opportunities. — Key Takeaways: -Solve the problem that’s in front of you. -Listening to community and customer needs is crucial. -On-site job training builds confidence and skills fo...

Join In Good Company co-founders Sarah Gabriel and Amanda Shojaee as they share the inspiration behind the podcast and who they hope to connect with along the way. Visit our website: https://www.igcwithus.com/ IGC passport: https://www.igcwithus.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/igcwithus?igsh=MWVzbWpybm55bDN5ZA==

Something good is coming! Subscribe today so you don’t miss our first episode drop in May of 2025! See you soon!