
Hosted by Brandy Schantz · EN
Welcome to Living Chronic: Ability at Work, the podcast where disability meets the future of work.
Hosted by Brandy Schantz—a disabled veteran, workplace accommodation expert, workforce development leader, and author—this podcast challenges the way we think about disability in the workplace. Through honest conversations, expert insights, and lived experience, we explore what it really takes to build workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Each episode tackles the issues shaping today's workforce: disability inclusion, reasonable accommodations, AI and the future of work, chronic illness, veterans in the workplace, mental health, leadership, public policy, and the systems that help, or hinder, people with disabilities from reaching their full potential. You'll hear from HR leaders, policymakers, researchers, medical experts, business executives, advocates, and people living with disabilities who are redefining what work can look like.
Whether you're an employer trying to create a more inclusive organization, an HR professional navigating complex accommodation decisions, a policymaker shaping the future of work, or someone living with a disability or chronic illness, this podcast offers practical strategies, thoughtful conversations, and a fresh perspective on one of the largest untapped talent pools in today's workforce.
Because disability isn't a barrier to talent, barriers are built into the systems around it. Together, we can dismantle those barriers, build belonging, and create workplaces where ability is recognized, supported, and valued.
Living Chronic: Ability at Work—changing the conversation about disability, one workplace at a time.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Sarah Dineen, an intuitive healing coach and Crohn's disease patient. They discuss Sarah's 34-year journey with Crohn's, the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, the impact of trauma on health, and the importance of integrating both traditional and holistic healing methods. Sarah shares her experiences with biologics, surgery, and the emotional toll of chronic illness, while also emphasizing the significance of stress management and self-care techniques like tapping and Reiki.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this conversation, Brandy Schantz speaks with Dana Hargus, a mental health counselor and founder of Restore House in Ada, Oklahoma. They discuss the holistic approach to mental health that Restore House offers, emphasizing the importance of addressing not just mental but also physical and emotional well-being. Dana explains the concept of biofeedback, the significance of trauma and stress in mental health, and the role of sleep and nutrition. They explore various alternative therapies, including emotional freedom techniques and the connection between gut health and mental well-being. The conversation highlights practical steps individuals can take to improve their mental health and overall quality of life.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz speaks with Ben Raybould, known for his Instagram account Stoma Diaries. They discuss Ben's journey with Crohn's disease, the challenges of living with a chronic illness, and the importance of community and transparency. Ben shares his experiences with diagnosis, surgery, and the mental health impacts of living with a stoma. The conversation highlights the need for support and understanding in the workplace and the emotional toll of chronic illness.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Living Chronic, Brandy Schantz interviews Jeremy Tammone, a veteran who shares his harrowing experience of being shot and the profound impact it has had on his life. Jeremy recounts the night of the incident, his miraculous survival against the odds, and the significant changes he has faced since then. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, grief, and the ongoing journey of adapting to a new reality after trauma. Jeremy's story is one of hope, strength, and the importance of finding purpose in the face of adversity. In this conversation, Jeremy Tammone and Brandy Schantz discuss the profound impact of mental health on individuals with disabilities, the journey towards justice after traumatic events, and the importance of support systems. They explore the challenges of reinventing oneself after life-altering experiences and the necessity of acceptance in moving forward. The conversation also highlights the critical need for organ donation and the role of community in healing.Support the show