The Work of Independence with Dianna Willis

Episode Description

What happens when life changes in an instant, or slowly over time?

For Dianna Willis, blindness didn't end her career or her ability to make a difference—it gave her a new perspective on what true independence and inclusion can look like.

In this episode of Independent Idaho, Jeremy sits down with Dianna to discuss her journey of adapting to blindness, returning to the workforce, and becoming a leader in disability advocacy. Together they explore what it means to remove barriers instead of expecting people to overcome them, why employment is such an important part of independence, and how creating accessible communities benefits everyone.

Along the way, Dianna also shares what life is really like working alongside her guide dog, Babs, and why disability is often less about a person's impairment than the systems and environments around them.

Whether you live with a disability, work alongside someone who does, or simply want to build more welcoming communities, this conversation offers practical insights and an inspiring reminder that independence isn't about doing everything alone—it's about having the opportunity to participate fully.

About Our Guest

Dianna Willis (M.Ed., M.A., WIP-C) is a Vocational Specialist with Living Independence Network Corporation (LINC), where she helps people with disabilities pursue employment and financial independence as a credentialed Work Incentives Practitioner through Cornell University.

She also serves as Board President and co-founder of the Idaho Access Project, a nonprofit working to create accessible communities through authentic community engagement. In addition, Dianna serves on the City of Boise's Cross-Disability Task Force, helping shape a more inclusive future through systems-level change.

Living with blindness herself, Dianna brings both lived experience and professional expertise to every aspect of her work advocating for greater independence and opportunity for people with disabilities.

Check out the LINC and Idaho Access Project websites.