Think Inclusive
Think Inclusive is a podcast that features real conversations about creating inclusive schools where every learner belongs. Hosted by Tim Villegas, it explores topics related to special education, inclusive practices, and building communities that support all students. The show aims to provide insights and strategies for educators, parents, and advocates.
Episodes
Dream Careers: Inside the Minds of Georgia State's IDEAL Students
Join us for episode three of MCIE's "Think Inclusive" four-part series in collaboration with Think College, as Tim Villegas visits the IDEAL program at Georgia State University in downtown Atlanta. IDEAL — Inclusive Digital Expression and Literacy — is a college program for students with intellectual disabilities built around creative media: film, television, and digital arts. It is also a commute
Redwood SEED Scholars: Roots That Hold Each Other Up
Join us for episode two of MCIE's "Think Inclusive" four-part series in collaboration with Think College, as Tim Villegas travels to the University of California, Davis, to visit the Redwood SEED Scholars Program — California's first four-year residential college program for students with intellectual disabilities, and the first at any UC campus. SEED stands for Supported Education to Elevate Dive
"I Identify as Blind": Lachi on Disability Language, Identity, and Why Words Matter in Schools
Lachi is a distinguished figure in the music and media industries, known for her work as an award-winning recording artist, producer, and advocate. She has a dynamic career that includes a Grammy-nominated album, hosting the PBS series Renegades, and founding the organization RAMPD (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities). Lachi is also a national trustee of the Recording Acad
Navigating Identity: Poetry, Disability, and Inclusion Advocacy with LeDerick Horne
LeDerick Horne is a spoken word poet, advocate, and speaker known for his work in special education and disability advocacy. He serves as the board chair of All In for Inclusive Education and is co-author of “Empowering Students with Hidden Disabilities: A Path to Pride and Success.” LeDerick has performed his poetry at high-profile venues, including the White House, and is the co-host of the “Bla
Building Inclusive Schools: A Journey of Transformation and Belonging with Angela Macklin and Sue Wright
Angela Macklin is a dedicated special education teacher and inclusive systems leader who played a pivotal role in transforming Cottage Lake Elementary School into a hub of inclusivity. Angela’s expertise in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and inclusive practices has now extended to the district-wide level in the North Shore School District, Washington. Her innovative approach is centered on fo
If Not Now, Then When? Early Childhood Education, LRE, and Inclusion with Melissa McCollough and Jani Kozlowski
Melissa McCollough is the Principal and Director of Early Childhood for the East Moline School District in Illinois. A pioneer in inclusive early childhood education, she oversees a program where every preschool classroom is an inclusive one. Melissa is recognized for her innovative approaches to early childhood education and her dedication to creating inclusive learning environments for all child
Shifting Focus from Compliance to Outcomes in Education with Glenna Wright-Gallo
Glenna Wright-Gallo is the Vice President of the Office of Strategic Research and Policy at Everway, a global neurotechnology software company. She has previously served as the Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services at the U.S. Department of Education. Glenna is also a person with a disability, a parent, and a former state Director of Special Education. Her extensive
Teaching Regulation as a Developmental Skill in Schools with Leah Kuypers
Leah Kuypers is a distinguished occupational therapist, internationally acclaimed trainer, and speaker renowned for creating the Zones of Regulation framework. With a strong background in occupational therapy and experience as an autism resource specialist, Leah has contributed significantly to international educational practices with her innovative approach to emotional and energy regulation with
Inclusion for Students with Visual Impairments: Overcoming Barriers Together with Jonathan Hooper
Jonathan Hooper is a distinguished educator and a certified teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI) and an assistive technology professional (ATP). With 13 years of experience as an itinerant vision teacher in New York City, Jonathan currently contributes his expertise at Pediatric VIEW at The Children's Home of Pittsburgh. There, he specializes in Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) and co
Fighting to Stop Fighting: What Keeps Advocates Like Ryan Honick Going?
Ryan Honick is an award-winning disability advocate, professional persuader, and prominent speaker. Over the years, he has forged significant pathways in advocacy on Capitol Hill, within federal government parameters, nonprofit organizations, and expansive PR firms. Honick is recognized for his influential work in publicizing the challenges faced by individuals using rideshare apps with service do
Patrick Mulick: Why "Bad Choice" Is the Wrong Language for Schools
Patrick Mulick is a board-certified behavior analyst, a certified speaker, trainer, and coach with the John Maxwell team. Serving as the Director of Student Engagement at the Auburn School District in Washington State, Patrick holds degrees in Special Education and Behavior Analysis from Gonzaga University. He has years of experience teaching students with disabilities, particularly those with aut
TerpsEXCEED: Making College Possible for All
Join us on this insightful episode of MCIE's "Think Inclusive" podcast, as Tim Villegas delves into the Terps Exceed program at the University of Maryland. Explore the innovative two-year initiative that integrates students with intellectual disabilities into university life, providing them with education, employment, and social opportunities typically seen in post-secondary education settings. Wi
Rethinking Social Skills: Teaching Social Thinking for All Learners with Michelle Garcia Winner
About the Guest(s):Michelle Garcia Winner is a renowned speech-language pathologist and the founder of Social Thinking. With over 30 years of experience, she has developed a methodology that seeks to aid teachers, therapists, and families in supporting social and organizational learning. Her work focuses on helping individuals, especially those on the autism spectrum, understand and enhance their
Advocating for Full Inclusion: Every Student Deserves Belonging with Sandra McElwee
Sandra McElwee is a prominent advocate for inclusive education and disabilities rights, known for her role as Sean's mom from the Emmy-winning reality TV series, "Born This Way." With over three decades of experience advocating for individuals with disabilities, Sandra has been a pillar of support and change within the inclusive education community. She is an author, public speaker, and independen
Building Inclusive Schools: From Belief to Practice with Michele Gardner
Michele Gardner is the interim CEO at All In for Inclusive Education, an organization dedicated to fostering inclusive practices in educational institutions. With over 25 years of experience in the New Jersey public school system, Michelle has held various roles such as special education teacher, paraprofessional, assistant principal, and director of special services. Additionally, she has been an
Centering Disabled Students' Voices for True Inclusion and Justice with Dom Kelly
Dom Kelly is the co-founder, president, and CEO of New Disabled South and New Disabled South Rising. A lifelong disability advocate, Dom has made his mark in nonprofit leadership and as a systems thinker who combines lived experience with movement building. Apart from his advocacy work, Dom is an accomplished musician, having toured extensively and shared the stage with renowned artists such as th
Beyond Welcome: What Real Belonging Looks Like in Schools with Megan Ohlssen
Megan Ohlssen is a visionary leader advocating for identity, equity, and belonging within educational spaces. She works dynamically with schools, organizations, and system leaders across the United States to spotlight disability justice and foster meaningful, sustainable change. Her extensive background includes coaching, systems evaluation, and program design, helping teams navigate difficult dia
Be on Offense: Navigating Inclusion and Accessibility with Dustin Giannelli
Dustin Giannelli is the CEO and founder of Hears Dustin, a consultancy dedicated to helping organizations create more inclusive and accessible workplaces. Profoundly deaf since childhood, Dustin navigates the world through lip reading, captions, and a strong sense of self-advocacy. His professional journey is marked by a commitment to enhancing communication, inclusion, accessibility, and workplac
Building Inclusive Schools Through Community and Universal Design with Andratesha Fritzgerald
Andratesha Fritzgerald is an accomplished author, international speaker, and experienced educator who concentrates her work on dignity, humanity, and inclusive learning design. She is known for her leadership in Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and her focus on anti-racism in educational settings. Andratesha is the author of “Anti-Racism and Universal Design for Learning: Building Expressways t
Inclusive Education in Faith-Based Schools: Practical Strategies for Supporting All Learners
Colleen McCoy-Cejka and Crystal Brooks are co-founders of Inclusion Solutions. Colleen has experience as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and curriculum director in Catholic schools and has worked closely with dioceses and school leaders on systems change. Crystal is a speech-language pathologist and former state agency specialist whose work focuses on evidence-based instruction, in
Inclusive Systems Change in Secondary Schools with Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams
Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams is a prominent educational leader with a focus on transformative change in school inclusion practices. Serving as Deputy Superintendent in a medium-sized school district in Oregon, she co-authored "Leading for All: How to Create Truly Inclusive and Excellent Schools." Her leadership has driven initiatives that foster collaboration among educators to effectively include s
Decolonizing Education: What It Means for K-12 Teachers and Students with Emily Affolter
Emily Affolter is an educator and scholar who works at the intersection of culturally responsive pedagogy, decolonizing education, and equity-focused teaching and leadership. She is the director and faculty for Prescott College’s Sustainability Education PhD program, where she works with doctoral scholars around social and environmental justice.In this episode, Tim Villegas talks with Emily Affolt
DEI in Schools: Why Belonging Matters More Than Access with Margo Gross
Margo Gross is a national public speaker, educator, certified life coach, and Amazon bestselling author. Her work focuses on DEI, belonging, equity, and culturally responsive teaching. She travels across the U.S. and abroad helping schools and communities better understand identity, student experience, and inclusive practices. Margo is also a former Teacher of the Year and is completing advanced l
The Homework Machine: What AI Is Really Doing in Classrooms
Justin Reich is an Associate Professor of Digital Media at MIT in the Comparative Media Studies/Writing program and the director of the Teaching Systems Lab. He is a longtime educator and host of the TeachLab podcast. His research focuses on how learning technologies shape teaching and learning in real classrooms and what actually happens when schools adopt new tools. He brings a thoughtful, histo
How Instructional Audio Transforms the Inclusive Classroom with Lightspeed Technologies
David Solomon is the President of Lightspeed Technologies and has spent the past 20 years helping schools create clearer, more accessible classroom listening environments. He focuses on simple, effective audio tools that boost attention, confidence, and inclusive learning for all students. Lightspeed Technologies designs instructional audio systems used in classrooms across the country to improve
Blue Engine on Scaling Inclusion: Silos, Safety, and Systems Change
Matt Guerrero and Tiffany Galloway are leaders at Blue Engine, a nonprofit organization that partners with school systems to scale inclusive practices. Their work spans regions across the U.S.—from New York City to Louisiana, Massachusetts, and the Pacific Northwest—supporting districts in building coherent, system‑level approaches to inclusive instruction. Matt and Tiffany bring deep backgrounds
How Museums Can Support Young Learners with Visual Impairment
Dr. Michael Barla is an early childhood educator and former higher‑ed faculty member who now works at the Anchor Center for Blind Children in Denver. In 2024, he completed a residential fellowship at the Clyfford Still Museum, where he designed a sensory‑based translation of a Clyfford Still painting for a young child with a visual impairment.Jen Taylor is a teacher of students with visual impairm
Katie Novak on Why UDL Is Not the Goal—but the Tool for Equity
Katie Novak is an internationally recognized education consultant, author, and expert in Universal Design for Learning. She teaches at the University of Pennsylvania and leads Novak Education, helping schools and districts disrupt inequitable systems and embrace inclusive practices. Katie is also a mom of four and a passionate advocate for public education.In this episode, Katie explains why UDL s
Public Education on the Precipice: Narratives, Inclusion, and What’s at Stake
Jennifer Berkshire: Education writer, author, and co-host of Have You Heard. Known for her sharp analysis of education policy and its impact on communities.Jack Schneider: Historian of education, researcher, and co-host of Have You Heard. Jack brings a deep understanding of the historical and sociological forces shaping public schools.Public education is under pressure like never before. Jennifer
Think Inclusive Turns 13
On this special Giving Tuesday edition of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas celebrates 13 years of the podcast and the ongoing work of MCIE to advance inclusive education. The live event features interactive games, audience participation, and heartfelt reflections from special guests and supporters. The episode highlights stories of advocacy, legal victories, and personal transformation, while al
Empowering Non-Speaking Students: Tools and Mindsets for Inclusive Schools
Lisa Mihalich Quinn is the founder of Reach Every Voice and co-founder of Adaptiverse. She is a former public school teacher who builds solutions for non-speaking autistic learners. Her work matters because she helps unlock grade-level access and trains educators to presume competence and embrace inclusion.This episode explores how opening up possibilities for communication can transform the lives
Down Syndrome Advocacy in Action: Lessons from Audrey and Jeremy
Audrey and Jeremy are lifelong friends, advocates, and co-hosts of The Audrey and Jeremy Show. Together, they speak up for disability rights, share their experiences as people with disabilities, and work to make schools and communities more inclusive. Their work matters because they show the world that everyone deserves to belong, be valued, and have their voices heard.Audrey and Jeremy join Think
Designing Schools for Belonging: Jordyn Zimmerman on Inclusion and AAC Tools
Jordyn Zimmerman is a passionate educator, disability advocate, and accessibility innovator. Diagnosed as autistic and denied access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) until age 18, Jordyn’s work centers on ensuring every learner has the tools and supports they need to thrive. Their advocacy is rooted in personal experience with segregation and inclusion, making their voice essent
Disability Justice and Inclusion: Meghan Ashburn & Jules Edwards Speak Out
Meghan Ashburn is a mother of autistic twins. She's an educational consultant who is passionate about inclusion and accessibility. Meghan is the creator of Not an Autism Mom and hosts That Au-Some Book Club.Jules Edwards is an autistic activist and parent of autistic children. She is the writer of Autistic, Typing, and works to educate the community and influence policy to promote disability justi
How Madison Tevlin Redefines Disability in Media and Hollywood
Madison Tevlin is an actor, advocate, and podcaster known for her breakout role in the film Champions and her viral YouTube performances. Madison’s work centers on authentic representation in media, advocating for inclusion that goes beyond disability. She is the host of the upcoming podcast 21 Questions, which celebrates identity, energy, and connection. Madison’s advocacy extends to inclusive cl
General Education Has to Be for Everyone
Dr. Jen Newton is an Associate Professor of Special Education at Ohio University and founder of Teaching is Intellectual. Jen works to re‑imagine general education as the default setting for all learners and centers belonging, access to curriculum, and accountability for systems so that inclusion is real, not just a placement.Tim and Jen unpack what “general education” really means under IDEA: not
Navigating School Leadership in Chaotic Times: A Conversation with Will Parker
Will Parker is an educator, author, and executive coach. Will helps school leaders build strong cultures, communication, and community through his work at Principal Matters. He’s a former principal and host of the Principal Matters podcast. Will’s work matters for inclusion because he supports educators in leading with heart and compassion, especially during challenging times. In this episode, Tim
How to Talk to People You Disagree With—Insights from Brit Barron
Brit Barron - Speaker, author, and comedian. Brit’s work explores how we stay connected in a polarized world, focusing on empathy, belonging, and liberation for all people. Brit’s book, Do You Still Talk to Grandma?, dives into cancel culture and navigating relationships with people we love but deeply disagree with. Their work matters for inclusion because it helps people build bridges in schools,
Radical Listening: How Jack Pearpoint’s Punk Rock Spirit Shaped Inclusive Education
Jack Pearpoint: Canadian publisher, inclusion advocate, and co‑creator of person‑centered planning tools like MAPS, PATH, and Circle of Friends. Jack’s work centers on relationships and building local leadership for change so every learner belongs. In this episode, Jack Pearpoint and Tim Villegas talk about “inclusion punk rock”—doing what’s right for learners even when systems say no. They dig in
Navigating Political Challenges in Education—Advice from Jennifer Gonzalez
Jennifer Gonzalez — National Board Certified Teacher and the voice behind Cult of Pedagogy. After more than a decade in classrooms, she now helps educators sharpen their craft with clear, practical guidance. Her work matters for inclusion because it centers relationships, cognitive growth, and everyday practices that make classrooms safe and welcoming for every learner.In this conversation, Jennif
Cathi Davis on Creating Schools Where Every Learner Belongs
Cathi Davis is the principal of Ruby Bridges Elementary School in Woodinville, Washington, and the 2025 Washington State Principal of the Year. She leads a school built on the promise “we thought of you when we made this place,” designing for belonging, elevating student voice, and protecting adult collaboration so inclusive practices stick.Principal Cathi Davis shares how Ruby Bridges Elementary
The Ride Ahead: Samuel and Dan Habib on Disability, Storytelling, and Inclusion
Samuel Habib is a college student, filmmaker, and disability rights advocate. He co-directed The Ride Ahead, a documentary chronicling his transition into adulthood as a disabled person. Samuel works part-time at the Westchester Institute for Human Development and is pursuing a degree in history at Southern New Hampshire University.Dan Habib is an Emmy-winning documentary filmmaker and longtime ad
Think Inclusive Trailer
Welcome to Think Inclusive. Each week, we bring together families, educators, and disability rights advocates to build a shared understanding of inclusive education—and what inclusion looks like in real schools and communities.Hosted by Tim Villegas, Director of Communications at the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), Think Inclusive shares real stories, practical strategies, and h
Elizabeth Bonker: Empowering Nonspeakers with Communication and Education
In this compelling episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in an enlightening conversation with Elizabeth Bonker, a prominent advocate for non-speaking individuals. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey of becoming a voice for non-speakers through typing. Despite the communication barriers she faced, Elizabeth emerged as a powerful force in advocating for inclusivity in education an
Transforming California Education: EmbraceAbilities Drives Inclusive Change
In this riveting episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas delves into the intricacies of educational inclusivity and innovation in California, spotlighting the transformative EmbraceAbilities project. This initiative is spearheaded by Marcia Reily and Kristen Danhour Stanke, two educational specialists from the Los Angeles County Office of Education. Their mission is to reshape how the educat
Exploring Play's Role in Inclusion and Personal Growth
About the Guest(s):Dr. Leah Kelley is a distinguished neurodivergent education consultant, author, activist, educator, and parent. With 25 years of experience as a public school teacher, her roles have included primary teacher, inclusion resource teacher, and SEL Mental Health helping teacher. Leah is known for her national and international presentations on neurodiversity, advocacy, and inclusion
Unveiling The Deaf Experience: Rachel Zemach's Identity Transformation Journey
About the Guest(s):Rachel Zemach is a deaf author and former educator with a passionate career centered around advocating for deaf students. Her profound experiences in mainstream education as a deaf teacher culminated in the writing of her book, "The Butterfly Cage: Joy, Heartache, and Corruption Teaching While Deaf in a California Public School," published in 2023. Rachel, who became deaf at the
Navigating Disability Advocacy Amidst Political Challenges and Misunderstandings
About the Guest(s):Emily Ladau is an activist, writer, and speaker, known for her relentless advocacy for disability rights. With a decade of experience, Emily serves as the editor of Able News, a digital newspaper amplifying the voices and stories of New York's vibrant disability community. Her involvement in disability rights extends beyond writing, as she continually seeks to inspire and challe
Empowering Advocacy with AI: Charmaine Thaner's Insights
About the Guest(s):Charmaine Thaner is a seasoned educator and advocate with over 30 years of experience, who has dedicated her career to supporting families and children with special needs. As a mother to a son with Down syndrome, she blends personal experience with professional expertise to guide parents through the complexities of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. Thaner is th
Rethinking Behavior Support: Ending Restraint and Seclusion in Schools
About the Guest(s):Guy Stevens is a nationally recognized expert and advocate for ending restraint and seclusion in schools. He is the founder of the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint (AASR), a nonprofit organization focused on reforming punitive discipline practices in educational settings. Guy is also a board member of the ARC of Maryland and PDA North America. His advocacy is dedicated t
Transforming Schools with Truly Inclusive Leadership and Practices
About the Guest(s):Toni Barton is a leader in education innovation and the founder of Speligent. She is a recognized authority on transforming schools through inclusive, equity-driven, and tech-enabled learning models, having gained vast experience as a teacher, principal, and district leader. Toni initiated the Inclusive Schools Leadership Institute at Relay Graduate School of Education, training
Empowering Neurodivergent Students Through Storytelling and Advocacy
About the Guest(s): Riley Mulcahy is the founder and Executive Director of The Riley Project, a nonprofit organization focused on storytelling and community building for individuals with learning differences. A graduate of St. Mary's College of California with a background in English and Creative Writing, Riley is also the Marketing and Admissions Associate at Compass High School, where he ch
Transforming Inclusive Education Through Inclusion Indicators
About the Guest(s):Alissa Rausch is a dedicated advocate for inclusive education rights, especially for young children with disabilities and various intersectional identities. Based at the University of Denver, she has extensive experience as a provider, program leader, educator, and technical assistance provider, notably developing inclusive programs and participating actively in legislative init
Unlocking Inclusive Strategies: Empower Every Child to Fly
About the Guest(s):Jani Kozlowski is a renowned early childhood professional, boasting over 30 years of experience. She is an accomplished author and speaker, serving as a technical assistance specialist and consultant. Jani focuses on supporting the development of young children and their families, with expertise in early childhood disability services, learning environments, and social-emotional
Why We Need to Blend General and Special Education Teacher Training
About the Guest(s):Jen Newton is an Associate Professor at Ohio University with a dedicated career in inclusive education spanning 25 years. Her expertise encompasses anti-racist, anti-ableist education, early childhood inclusion, and inclusive teacher preparation. Beginning her career as an early interventionist and inclusive pre-kindergarten teacher, Dr. Newton now focuses on teacher education,
Empowering Inclusion: Advocates Share Stories and Strategies
About the Guest(s):Brilly Semenova: Brilly is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities, having started her advocacy journey during her middle school years. She is based in Maryland but operates nationally, providing resources and support to families and individuals. Her focus covers education, employment, social skills, and legal guidance for navigating benefits for people with disa
Empowering Educators: Navigating Inclusive Education Challenges and Opportunities
About the Guest(s):Nicole Eredics is a seasoned expert specializing in inclusive education, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. Armed with degrees in elementary and special education, Nicole began her career as an inclusion teacher in British Columbia, Canada. She is the founder of the Inclusive Class and has been instrumental in implementing inclusive systems in over 150 schools ac
The Power of Storytelling in Disability Rights with Jeiri Flores
About the Guest(s):Jeiri Flores is a Puerto Rican disability rights activist based in Rochester, New York. After earning her bachelor's degree in Sociology and African American Studies from SUNY Brockport in 2014, she pursued a master's in Human Development at the University of Rochester. As a passionate advocate for disability rights, Jeiri shares her insights on inclusion, disability, and inters
Disability Inclusive Curriculum: Changing Mindsets in Pennsylvania Schools and Nationwide
About the Guest(s):Lisa Aquila is a dedicated advocate for disability rights and Vice Chair of the Board at Disability Equality in Education (DEE). Lisa's journey into disability advocacy began after a career as a home care attendant was cut short due to her own disability. As an education outreach specialist, she has been pivotal in lobbying for disability-inclusive curriculum legislation, co-fou
Navigating Change in Education: A Conversation with Dr. Shelley Moore
About the Guest(s):Dr. Shelley Moore is a renowned inclusive education researcher, teacher consultant, and storyteller based in British Columbia, Canada. Shelley holds a Special Education undergraduate degree from the University of Alberta, a Master's from Simon Fraser University, and a PhD from the University of British Columbia. She is highly sought after internationally for her insights on desi
Creating Neurodiversity Affirming Schools with Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin
About the Guest(s):Amanda Morin: A renowned neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, Amanda Morin is an award-winning author, specialist in early childhood and behavioral studies, a certified teacher, and a nationally acclaimed speaker. She has dedicated her career to creating accessible, inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, working with educational professionals and parents to en
Emmy-Winning Documentary Everybody Dance Celebrates Inclusion
About the Guest(s):Dan Watt is a distinguished producer and director, recognized for his work on the 2024 Emmy Award-winning documentary "Everybody Dance." With a rich background in film, Dan has worked on notable projects with Columbia Pictures, including "House Bunny" and "Just Go with It." Beyond film production, he collaborated on a documentary with entertainment icon Simon Cowell about the ba
Battle Fatigue: The Fight for Inclusive Education with Dr. Priya Lalvani
About the Guest(s):Dr. Priya Lalvani is a professor of Disability Studies at Montclair State University, where she also coordinates inclusive education graduate programs. Holding a PhD in developmental psychology from CUNY and a Master of Arts in Special Education from Columbia University, Dr. Lalvani brings over 14 years of professional experience working with young adults with disabilities in Ne
Peer Tutoring: A Key to Inclusive Education Success
About the Guest(s):Dr. Rebecca Brooks serves as an Associate Professor of Education for the School of Education and Program Director for the Aspiring Scholars Program (an inclusive post-secondary education program for students with intellectual disabilities) at California State University at San Marcos. Dr. Brooks has worked with individuals with disabilities in recreational, vocational, resi
Navigating the Path to True Inclusion with the Integrated Schools Podcast
About the Guest(s):Val Brown is a Black mom from North Carolina. She believes that education is a vehicle for social change, and encourages parents, caregivers, and educators to engage in public discourse about critical topics because it allows them to learn with and from others.Andrew Lefkowits is a White dad from Denver, and the father of an 8th grader and 5th grader. He believes that #ThurgoodW
Empowering Youth with Disabilities Through Sexual Health Education
About the Guest(s):Connie Senior is an Assistant Director and Project Manager for Project SHINE at YAI. She has over 27 years of experience in neurodevelopmental disabilities and mental health. With extensive experience advocating for and supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Connie plays a crucial role in developing resources for this community. Her work f
Building Inclusive Schools with Sam Drazin
About the Guest(s):Sam Drazin is the founder and Executive Director of Changing Perspectives, an organization focused on promoting inclusive education and social inclusion. Sam has extensive experience as a former teacher and is a sought-after speaker and consultant for schools seeking to implement inclusive practices. Under Sam's leadership, Changing Perspectives offers professional development,
What's Next for IDEA? ~ Exploring IDEA's Future Amidst Changing Political and Educational Landscapes
About the Guest(s):Dr. Jen Newton: Associate Professor in Special Education at Ohio University with expertise in strengths-based approaches to families, early childhood inclusion, and socially just educational practices. Dr. Newton has previously taught at James Madison University and Saint Louis University and is a passionate advocate for inclusive education.Eric Garcia: Washington Bureau Chief a
Embracing Inclusion: Navigating Disability in Education and Parenting with Kelley Coleman
About the Guest(s):Kelley Coleman is an influential advocate and author specializing in parenting children with disabilities. Over a decade into her journey of raising a child with multiple disabilities, Kelley has become a voice of insight and support for many parents navigating similar paths. She recently authored the book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child," where sh
Building Bridges: How Leaders Can Truly Connect and Cultivate Belonging with Alida Miranda-Wolff
About the Guest(s):Alida Miranda-Wolff is an accomplished diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) practitioner. She is a three-time guest on the Think Inclusive podcast, showcasing her expertise in cultivating inclusive cultures. Alida is the founder and CEO of Ethos, a full-service DEIB and employee advocacy firm, serving a multitude of clients worldwide. She is also the host of the po
'The Other Kids': A Conversation about Inclusion, Trauma, and Behavior with Alex Shevrin Venet
About the Guest(s):Alex Shevrin Venet: Alex is an educator, consultant, and author known for her work in trauma-informed and equity-centered education. She has authored "Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Education" and "Becoming an Everyday Change Maker." With a background in therapeutic school settings, Alex now focuses on teacher development, school consulting, and writing. She is dedicated to emp
Sonic Rebels: How Reynols Shatters Stereotypes with Every Note
About the Guest(s):Alan Courtis is an Argentine experimental musician known for his work with the band Reynols. Founded in 1993, the band is distinctive in the experimental rock scene, especially since its lead singer, Miguel Tomasin, has Down syndrome. Courtis has collaborated broadly in the music industry, contributing significantly to avant-garde and noise music. He continues to challenge conve
Exploring Virtual Education's Potential for Inclusive Learning Environments
About the Guest(s):Alexis Thomason is an accomplished virtual art instructor at the Pearson Georgia Connections Academy. She has a robust background in teaching, having spent 25 years in various educational roles. Initially starting her career in middle school education with certifications in K-12 art and language arts for grades 4 through 8, Alexis transitioned to the virtual teaching sphere foll
Breaking Down Myths: The True Cost of Inclusive Education
About the Guest(s):Jamie Sowers: Jaime is a dedicated special education director focused on teacher retention and hiring. As Clinical Advisory Team Director at BlazerWorks, he aids school districts in recruitment and retention, emphasizing post-secondary outcomes for students with disabilities. With 20 years of experience, Jaime has been a teacher, coordinator, and principal. He holds a Doctor of
Unlocking Inclusive Education: Master Scheduling with Natural Proportions
About the Guest(s):Brittni Sammons is a Professional Learning Coordinator with the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education (MCIE), bringing a wealth of experience from her past roles as a special educator, assistant principal, and inclusive education facilitator. Before joining MCIE, she served the Calvert County Public Schools, where she played a pivotal role in partnership with MCIE to furthe
Embracing the Complexity of Inclusive Education with Aaron Lanou
About the Guest(s):Aaron Lanou (he/him) is an educational consultant supporting schools and organizations to reach all kids with inclusive, strengths-based practices. Through the lens of Universal Design for Learning, Aaron coaches teachers and others to teach and support autistic students and all kids with a variety of academic, executive functioning, and social support needs. A member of Carol G
Busting Math Myths with UDL: Making Math Accessible for All
About the Guest(s):Jenna Rufo is an inclusive education consultant and the founder and CEO of EmpowerED School Solutions. She has worked with state departments of education, disability rights organizations, and school systems across the United States and Australia to create more equitable and inclusive special education programs. She spent nearly 20 years in public education as an assistant superi
Exploring AI's Role in Streamlining IEP Development for Educators
About the Guest(s):Dr. Andrea Harkins-Brown is the Program Director for Disability Policy and Systems Change and an Assistant Research Scientist at the Center for Technology and Education within Johns Hopkins University School of Education. With a background as a special educator in public schools in Maryland, Dr. Harkins-Brown has extensive experience serving students with autism and significant
Inclusion Starts Now: Building Relationships to Promote Inclusive Education
About the Guest(s):Kayla Coburn is an inclusive education advocate and former special education teacher, known for her transformative work in promoting inclusive practices within schools. Having taught in both inclusive and segregated classrooms, Kayla brings firsthand experience to her consultancy, "Inclusion Starts Now." She is also a children's book author with titles focusing on inclusion and
Using Data to Advocate for Inclusive Education and Policy Change
About the Guest(s):Liz Zogby is a dedicated advocate in the special education and disability space based in Baltimore City. She is the co-chair of the Maryland Down Syndrome Advocacy Coalition (MDAC) and the Special Education Policy and Advocacy Project. Liz also co-chairs the special education workgroup with the state superintendent under the Maryland State Department of Education. Her advocacy e
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