Leading with Authenticity: Megan Fuciarelli on Trust, Disability Inclusion, and Workplace Culture

What does authentic leadership actually look like, and why does it matter more than ever for disability inclusion at work?

In this episode of Changing Minds & Changing Lives, host Julie Sowash is joined by Megan Fuciarelli, Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer of US2 Consulting, to unpack one of the biggest workplace challenges in 2026: the growing gap between what employers say and what employees experience.

Drawing on recent disability employment data and real-world examples—from federal accommodation policy rollbacks to employer lawsuits and shifting DEI commitments—this conversation explores why trust is breaking down in the workplace and what leaders can do to rebuild it.

Show Notes:

Key Takeaways

• Why only a small percentage of disabled professionals trust employer commitment
• How DEI rollbacks and “quiet retreats” impact psychological safety
• What authentic leadership really looks like in practice
• How to have difficult conversations about disability, identity, and inclusion
• Why curiosity is the key to better leadership
• The role of accountability, data tracking, and transparency in rebuilding trust

This episode is a must-listen for HR leaders, recruiters, executives, and anyone committed to building more inclusive, equitable workplaces.

• Learn more about US2 Consulting: https://www.us2consulting.com
• Connect with Megan Fuciarelli on LinkedIn
• Explore more episodes: https://www.changingmindsandlives.org/

About the Guest

Megan Fuciarelli is the Founder and Chief Empowerment Officer of US2 Consulting, a former school superintendent-turned-leadership consultant, and the creator of the “Authenticity Amplifier” framework. She works with organizations to build trust through ethical, values-driven leadership, focusing on authenticity, inclusive leadership, difficult conversations, and workplace culture. Megan also brings lived experience as a professional with a disability, which informs her perspective and approach to creating more inclusive and empowering workplaces.

Julie Sowash is a strategic advisor, disability inclusion leader, and co‑founder of Disability Solutions. She is the CEO of Catch 22 Group and is the Job Board Doctor.