Jerod Nieder

About Jerod Nieder

I am Jerod Nieder, a passionate advocate and consultant specializing in inclusivity and empowerment for individuals with disabilities. As the founder of PositivelyParalyzed LLC, I have harnessed the power of social media to reach over 15 million people, promoting a message of hope and resilience. I have built a platform that educates, informs, and inspires, showcasing my interabled life and adventures, all while emphasizing accessibility and inclusion.**Major Accomplishments:**- Panelist at the 2023 U2FP 18th Annual Science and Advocacy Symposium in Minneapolis, Minnesota- Speaker at the 2023 NextStep Nashville Fundraising Gala- Keynote Speaker at the 2021 Neuromodulation Symposium in Louisville, Kentucky- Presenter at the 2023 and 2024 SCI Investor Symposiums in San Diego**Expertise and Experience:**I have extensive experience in community engagement, both online and in-person. My work involves creating accessible educational materials, high-quality training videos, and innovative adaptive fitness programs. I have consulted on research projects with esteemed institutions like Virginia Commonwealth University and Lineage, contributing to improved study designs and participant engagement.Living in Louisville, Kentucky, with my wife Hanna and our dog Belle, I have been actively involved with the Kentucky Spinal Cord Injury Research Center for nine years. My journey with spinal cord injury began on December 18, 2011, after a diving accident. Ten years later, on the same date, I transformed this day into a positive memory by marrying Hanna, who has been my sole caregiver for the past six years.Together, Hanna and I aim to build relationships and create a sense of community by sharing our passion for travel and adventure, always through the lens of accessibility and representation. We are dedicated to breaking down barriers and fostering inclusive environments, making a lasting impact on the lives of those we touch. Connect with me to explore opportunities to create impactful change together.

Experience

1. Promotional Model

   Permobil

   Jan 2016 — Present · Nashville, TN, US

   Served as a long-term promotional model and brand ambassador for Permobil, participating in three multi-day national photo and video campaigns in Nashville; featured in product catalogs, website visuals, national advertising, and factory installations. • Partnered with the Permobil Foundation to create inclusive content and amplify advocacy messaging, leveraging lived experience to support storytelling, social media campaigns, and public education. • Organized and hosted community events for individuals with paralysis to showcase Permobil equipment, raise awareness around accessibility innovations, and facilitate peer engagement. • Provided ongoing user feedback and field-tested custom components—including multiple power chairs, SmartDrive technology, and adaptive parts—helping inform product development and user experience improvements

Education

• The University of Kansas

  Communication and Media Studies

  2001 — 2005