In the ongoing series of Morning Lazziness that showcases the empowerment of women who have made a significant impact with their ideas, I had the honor of conducting an interview with Jessica Fabus Cheng.
Jessica Fabus Cheng is a remarkable individual, a survivor of thyroid cancer, a lawyer specializing in accessibility, and the reigning Mrs. DC International 2025. With a background as a registered nurse and a former Team USA Taekwondo athlete, Jessica now dedicates her strength and resilience to empowering others through her platform, "Accessibility in Action," and her podcast, "All the Best with Jess." Despite having only 80% vocal function, she advocates for digital inclusion and helps brands create more accessible content through her "Turnkey Accessibility" program.
Prior to being crowned Mrs. New York International 2023, Jessica has worn many hats including that of a surgical nurse, athlete, mother, Duchenne carrier, and cancer survivor. In 2021, she was recognized as one of "10 Women to Look For" by Taekwondo Life Magazine.
Jessica’s journey is deeply personal, as she found herself involved in advocacy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy after her cousin was diagnosed with the condition. Discovering that she was a Duchenne carrier herself, Jessica chose to support the community through raising awareness, fundraising, and standing in solidarity with families affected by Duchenne.
From figure skating to martial arts, from nursing to global advocacy, Jessica embodies resilience, leadership, and service. Whether on stage, online, or within her community, she continues to inspire others by transforming life’s greatest challenges into platforms for positive change.
In this interview, Jessica provides a candid look at the realities of entrepreneurship, sharing both the challenges and victories that have shaped her path.
What inspired you to venture into entrepreneurship, and how have your personal experiences fueled the concept behind your current company?
My transition to entrepreneurship was not a choice but a calling. When I was faced with a rare thyroid cancer diagnosis and the possibility of losing my voice permanently, I found clarity in the silence. I realized that I didn’t need a perfect voice to speak; I needed a purpose. Thus, "Accessibility in Action" was born. Recognizing the voices omitted from digital spaces, I knew I had the story, strategy, and passion to effect change.
Which core problem does your company solve, particularly for women or disadvantaged communities, and what sets your approach apart in today’s competitive landscape?
Many brands overlook the disabled and neurodiverse communities, despite their significant global purchasing power. Through Turnkey Accessibility and my triple A framework (Awareness, Alliance, Action), I assist companies in creating content and experiences that are inclusive of everyone, not just the majority. What differentiates my approach is its foundation in lived experience and a focus on human connection. I view accessibility not as a set of rules but as a relationship.
What were some of the most challenging obstacles you faced early in your journey as a female entrepreneur, and how did you navigate through them?
One of the most challenging aspects was feeling like my voice wasn’t being heard in conversations. Not fitting the typical mold of a disabled person or someone who had undergone extensive medical treatment, I questioned if my voice was enough. However, overcoming the loss of 20% of my vocal function and choosing to speak up required a different kind of strength. I had to unlearn the notion that advocacy had a specific look or language and embrace the intersections of my story.
When faced with difficulties, what keeps you grounded and motivated to persevere?
My daughter, Coco, is my driving force. I aspire for her to grow up in a world where inclusion is not a choice but a norm. Thinking of my cousin, who lost mobility due to an inaccessible sidewalk, reminds me of the real-life impacts of systems designed without everyone in mind. These thoughts ground me and propel me forward.
What daily habits or non-negotiable routines help you stay focused, maintain creativity, and achieve balance as a founder?
I structure my day around energy, not just tasks. Scheduling vocal rest as if it were a meeting, prioritizing self-care, spending time with my daughter, and disconnecting when needed are essential practices for me. These are not mere add-ons but integral to maintaining clarity and purpose.
What has been the most effective growth strategy for acquiring new customers or expanding your customer base?
Storytelling has been key. Whether through my podcast, panel discussions, or company training sessions, sharing the personal narrative behind my mission allows people to connect on a deeper level. Accessibility is not just understood; it is felt, turning awareness into action.
Which branding or marketing decision had the most significant impact on elevating your company and building trust with your audience?
Choosing to lead with authenticity has been pivotal. Initially apprehensive about people noticing the difference in my speech, I discovered that this uniqueness enhances my message. Transparency about the origins of my story builds trust and fosters genuine connections.
How do you define success not only as a business owner but as a woman leading a purpose-driven life?
Success, to me, is alignment. It is when my actions mirror my values and my work reflects my purpose. Creating spaces where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued is my measure of success. If my daughter grows up in a world where inclusion is the norm, then I have made a positive impact.
Can you share a mistake or setback that taught you a valuable lesson still carried with you today?
Waiting to feel "ready" was a mistake I learned from. After my cancer diagnosis, I believed I had to be fully healed before speaking out about accessibility. However, healing is not linear, and sharing your story’s value exists even amidst ongoing challenges. The lesson I hold onto is that you don’t need to be fully prepared to make a difference.
What advice would you offer to women starting out, particularly first-time entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about their next steps?
Begin small and begin with passion. You don’t need a polished logo or a detailed five-year plan to start. Clarity about who you aim to serve and why it matters is crucial. From there, the next steps will reveal themselves organically.
How do you approach risk and innovation, especially when venturing into a male-dominated or rapidly evolving industry?
I approach risk and innovation with curiosity and courage, much like how I approach accessibility. Sometimes, the most innovative solutions arise from asking, "Who is being overlooked here?" Leading from this perspective results in solutions that are inherently inclusive by design.
If you lead a team, how do you cultivate a culture of trust, inclusivity, collaboration, and growth?
Setting a positive example is crucial in fostering a culture of trust and inclusivity. Ensuring that everyone feels heard, implementing flexible systems that cater to diverse communication styles, and prioritizing inclusivity in all aspects of our work are key to building a cohesive team environment.
What are the top 5 mindset shifts or personal practices that have helped you overcome self-doubt and boost your self-confidence as a female entrepreneur?
- Progress over perfection
- Strategic rest
- Vulnerability fosters trust
- Embracing your space
- Visibility as a form of service
Each of these practices has empowered me to show up, even in moments of doubt.
If you could spark a global movement through your work, what would it be, and why is that mission meaningful to you?
My goal is to make accessibility the standard, not an afterthought. By designing with inclusivity from the outset, we not only accommodate more individuals but also invite them to lead, create, and thrive. This vision drives me to work towards a world where every brand and voice prioritizes accessibility.
What guiding belief, philosophy, or quote shapes how you lead, create, and live each day?
"You don’t need a loud voice to create significant change." I’ve learned that impact stems from intention, not volume. By showing up with clarity and heart, your message resonates in ways that transcend mere words.
Where can our audience connect with you, explore your work, or follow your entrepreneurial journey online?
You can visit Jessica Fabus Cheng or follow me on Instagram and @bestwithjesspodcast. Additionally, tune in to "All the Best with Jess," where I showcase entrepreneurs and impactful voices within the industry.
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