Popular Broadway Actress Uses her Amazing Voice as Tech Advocate
CHATTANOOGA, TN – I had the privilege of interviewing Broadway’s Ali Stroker this week. You might remember her from her stunning performance in Oklahoma. My wife and I recognized her from her episode of Only Murders in the building, which is one of our favorite shows. She’s also consulted behind the scenes on numerous others, and has several more projects in the works. Right now, she’s consulting with whirlpool to bring new tech to people with disabilities.
“So for anybody who doesn’t know, I, have been in a wheelchair since I was two years old and I have some mobility disabilities,” says Stroker. “And so, I have had the opportunity to partner with the whirlpool brand with a new product that they’re launching called the Spin and Load Dishwasher Rack. And, I am in my mommy era right now. This, spinning load, dishwasher rack, spins 360 degrees so I can bring everything to me so I don’t have to worry about my balance or falling and it just feels so empowering that I can take care of my home and my family.”
The design is simple, genius. And looking at it, I have to wonder, with all the technology and brainpower that we use to create social media apps to turn people into mermaids. Why did this take us so long?
According to Ali, there’s a reason it’s taken so long. “I think that part of where, there’s like a delay in some of this technology, in these, accommodations and this kind of inclusivity is that I think we have a little fear of getting it wrong,” says Stroker.
Whirlpool has collaborated with the United Spinal Association and people like Ali with disabilities to bring this tech to the market.
The most fascinating part of this to me is that you don’t have to go buy brand new appliances. There’s no special line for this. You can buy the parts and add them to your existing whirlpool appliances. They’re accessible and inclusive for everyone. Many thanks to Ali for her behind the scenes work on projects like this, as well as taking time to speak with us.
