EP 57: Turning Barriers into Breakthroughs: How Kay Devealt Is Redefining Inclusion Through the Power of Conversation

July 7th

By: StaffBuffalo Team

In this inspiring episode of the Pain Points Podcast, Maggie Shea sits down with Kay Devealt, better known as the Palsy Power Chick, founder of Palsy Power Chick Innovations, keynote speaker, and passionate advocate for disability inclusion. 

Kay shares her remarkable journey from feeling excluded as a young student to becoming a nationally recognized voice for accessibility, workplace inclusion, and resilience. Through honesty, humor, and unwavering determination, she reminds us that meaningful change begins with one simple thing: conversation. 

Finding Her Voice and Her Purpose

Kay's journey began with a challenge many people never saw. 

Growing up with cerebral palsy, she often felt isolated and struggled to find acceptance among her peers. Everything changed when a high school mentor encouraged her to share her story with her classmates. 

That single speaking opportunity became the turning point in her life. 

For the first time, Kay realized her voice had the power to educate others, break down misconceptions, and inspire change. It was the moment she truly became the "Palsy Power Chick." 

Today, she continues using that same voice to help organizations build more inclusive workplaces and communities. 

Breaking Barriers in the Workplace

After graduating from college, Kay was eager to begin her career in human services. Like many new graduates, she expected finding a job would be the next natural step. 

Instead, she faced repeated rejection. 

Transportation limitations and misconceptions about disability created barriers that had nothing to do with her abilities or qualifications. Despite earning her degree and preparing herself for the workforce, finding the right opportunity proved far more difficult than she expected. 

Rather than letting those experiences define her, Kay transformed them into motivation. 

She now works full-time while also running her own business, helping organizations better understand disability inclusion, workplace accommodations, and accessibility. 

Her message is simple: inclusion isn't about lowering expectations. It's about removing unnecessary barriers so people can contribute their talents. 

Why Inclusion Starts with Conversation

One of the biggest themes throughout the episode is that accessibility doesn't have to be complicated. 

According to Kay, many workplace challenges can be solved simply by creating space for honest conversations. 

Rather than making assumptions, employers should ask questions, listen, and work collaboratively with employees to identify solutions. 

Likewise, employees should feel empowered to communicate what they need to succeed. 

Kay believes accommodations should never feel intimidating. Often, they involve small adjustments that benefit both employees and organizations while creating stronger, more productive workplaces. 

For her, communication will always accomplish more than assumptions. 

Changing Perceptions One Story at a Time

Beyond her advocacy work, Kay continues pushing herself personally. 

She shared the story of completing her very first Color Run, crossing the finish line after more than two hours while an entire crowd cheered her on. That experience showed not only what she was capable of, but also inspired others watching her accomplish something they never thought possible. 

More recently, she's taken on powerlifting, preparing to compete alongside non-disabled athletes. 

Her goal isn't simply to prove what she can do. 

It's to show others living with disabilities that they belong, they are capable, and they deserve every opportunity to pursue their goals. 

Every challenge becomes another opportunity to redefine expectations. 

Building a More Accessible Future

Today, through Palsy Power Chick Innovations, Kay partners with organizations to improve accessibility, educate leaders, and create more inclusive environments for employees and customers alike. 

Her mission extends far beyond disability awareness. 

She wants businesses to move beyond policies and checklists and instead focus on building cultures where every person feels seen, valued, and supported. 

As Kay reminds us throughout the conversation, accessibility is not about special treatment. It's about creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

And sometimes, all it takes to begin is a conversation.