Inclusion Starts Now

Episode 40 Parenting, Advocacy, and Inclusion: Finding What Works

I had a phenomenal conversation with two moms of disabled children who connected through Facebook communities and now host their own podcast-Bitching and Bolusing. As strong advocates, they shared their journeys in navigating inclusion, the challenges of finding the right support, and the diverse preferences within disability communities. While no single approach works for every family, their dedication to ensuring the best possible future for their children is unwavering. This might be one of the best episodes yet!
 
IG: @bitching_and_bolusing

Ep 39: What If the Department of Education Disappeared?

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I sit down with Ashley Barlow—IEP expert and the advocate you need in your corner for navigating the education system. We dive into what it would actually mean if the Department of Education were dismantled, how it could impact families receiving special education services, and what steps we can take to protect inclusive education.
https://ashleybarlowco.com/
IG @thecollaborativeiep
PODCAST: https://ashleybarlowco.com/blog/

Episode 38 Inclusion Starts Now: A Parent’s Perspective on Autism & Advocacy with Leila

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I chat with my new Instagram bestie Leila, a parent of an autistic child, about the importance of inclusion and the power of language. Leila may be new to social media, but she’s an incredibly articulate advocate who shares her insights with warmth and clarity. We discuss how small shifts in language can make a big impact, what true inclusion looks like, and how everyone can step up as an ally. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just someone looking to be more inclusive, this conversation is full of valuable takeaways!
Instagram: @sprinkledspectrum

Episode 37 Beyond the Diagnosis: A Candid Conversation on Autism, Medicine, and Ableism

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I sit down with an incredibly knowledgeable guest—a doctor, an autistic advocate, and so much more. We dive deep into conversations about identity, the medical system, ABA therapy, and the pervasive ableism woven into society. With a wealth of research and lived experience, he breaks down misconceptions, challenges systemic issues, and offers insights that will leave you thinking long after the episode ends. If you’re ready for an unfiltered discussion that pushes beyond the status quo, this episode is a must-listen!!

Episode 36 Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals: What to Look For in Therapy

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I sit down with two behavior therapists to discuss the complexities of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). They share their origin stories, break down red flags to watch out for, highlight green flags in ethical and affirming therapy, and offer insights on supporting neurodivergent individuals in a respectful, person-centered way.
Instagram: @happybeehavior

Episode 35 Trusting the Signs: Tarot, Intuition, and Educating

This week, we’re stepping into a new realm! I spoke with Caitlin who educated me about tarot cards, and our conversation went beyond the cards themselves. We explored how tarot can help strengthen skills like trusting your gut, reading the room, and honing intuition—key strategies for both parenting and teaching. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on how these insights apply to everyday life!
Connect with Caitlin on IG @nonbinarybynature

Episode 34: Interwoven Identities: Disability, LGBTQ+ Identity, and Intersectionality

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I sit down with Michael, a white, gay, disabled advocate, to explore the layers of identity and intersectionality. Why does it seem like so many people who are disabled, LGBTQ+, or POC belong to more than one marginalized group? We unpack this question through Michael’s lived experiences, discussing identity, privilege, and the power of language in shaping inclusion.

Episode 33: Bridging Worlds Through Words: A Conversation with Blair Fell

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, we sit down with Blair Fell, author of The Sign for Home and the upcoming Disco Witches of Fire Island. Join us as we explore Deaf culture, the nuances of deafblind signing, and the ways lack of understanding can create barriers. Blair shares his journey as a writer and interpreter, his inspirations, and his mission to foster connection and representation through storytelling.
You can connect with Blair on Instagram @blair.fell
And make sure to pre-order his newest book at https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/770228/disco-witches-of-fire-island-by-blair-fell/
Published by Alcove Press

Episode 32: Disabled and Furious: Can we get stronger these next 4 years?

On this week's episode of Inclusion Starts Now, Wes and I have a conversation about how some people in the disabled community don't feel safe around people who voted for the most recent president. Wes shares why this most recent election frightens him while reflecting on the notion that not everyone who voted for the most recent president thought as their vote being against disabled people. Politics is an emotional subject and this is a place where we can explain, learn, and grow together. We are voting on policies and laws about people's rights. Let's start the conversation.
 
You can find Wes on Bluesky or Instagram at @wes_of_disabledland

Ep 31: Concerned for Communities after a Spontaneous Dog Adoption

These solo episodes are usually an educational conversation but today I want to have time to reflect with you. On Christmas Eve, our family deciding to spontaneously adopt a dog. As someone who has been saying no to animals for years, I caved after one conversation at the TASH conference I went to in December. We will dive into the reasoning behind why I actually said yes to this big step and reflections on why our relationships with animals seem to be so much stronger than with humans.