{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/66438c0642f67100136011d1/6855428165897885e3bb385d?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"Breaking Barriers: Building an Inclusive Self-Employed Community","thumbnail_width":200,"thumbnail_height":200,"thumbnail_url":"https://open-images.acast.com/shows/66438c0642f67100136011d1/1750415464858-261ec100-42fa-463c-8860-f85b49a8e26b.jpeg?height=200","description":"<p>In Season 2, Episode 3 of <em>Iconic Insights</em>, we’re joined by Jeanne McDonagh, CEO of the <a href=\"https://www.opendoorsinitiative.ie/\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\">Open Doors Initiative</a>, for an inspiring conversation about building an inclusive contractor and self-employed community in Ireland. Jeanne shares her personal journey into advocacy, the story behind the Open Doors Initiative, and how Open Doors is working with businesses to break down barriers and reshape access to opportunity.</p><p><br></p><p>We explore:</p><p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The <a href=\"https://www.opendoorsinitiative.ie/Open-Doors-Programmes#pathwaystoprogress\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Pathways to Progress</strong></a> programme and how it supports marginalised communities through training, education, and entrepreneurship.</p><p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href=\"https://www.opendoorsinitiative.ie/Open-Doors-Programmes#employersforchange\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Employers for Change</strong> </a>and the tools available to support inclusive hiring of people with disabilities.</p><p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong>Practical steps</strong> self-employed professionals can take to mentor, train, and uplift diverse talent.</p><p>·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How small businesses and contractors can become <strong>champions for inclusive hiring</strong> within their networks.</p><p><br></p><p>If you’re a contractor, entrepreneur, or business leader looking to make a meaningful impact — this episode will leave you empowered to take action. </p><p><br></p><p>Because inclusion isn’t a box to tick — it’s a door to open. 🚪</p>","author_name":"Icon Accounting"}