Think Inclusive Podcast

About the Guest(s): Marci Heit is the founder of QD Foodie, an innovative company that creates inclusive kitchen tools designed for people of all abilities. A voiceover artist and committed advocate for inclusivity, Marci was inspired by her volunteer work with the "Kids on the Block" disability awareness puppet show and her personal connections, including a friendship with 90-year-old Elda, who lost her sight but continued baking. Marci's creative background and personal experiences have fueled her mission to make cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, hosted by Tim Villegas, we delve into the exciting intersection of inclusivity and culinary creativity. Tim sits down with Marci Heit, the visionary founder of QD Foodie, to explore how her innovative kitchen tools are transforming the cooking experience for people with diverse abilities. Raised with a passion for cooking and inspired by her interactions with the disability community, Marc

About the Guest(s): Renay Marquez is a co-founder of ParaEducate, an organization dedicated to supporting paraeducators with resources, training, and curriculum modifications for inclusive classrooms. With a background in architecture from the University of Southern California and extensive experience working as a paraeducator since 2003, Renay is well-versed in modifying curriculum, collecting data, and exploring technology solutions for students with disabilities. Throughout her career, she has been a fierce advocate for inclusive education and providing practical support for peer educators and teachers.Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas sits down with Renay Marquez, co-founder of ParaEducate. They delve into Renay's journey, the inception of ParaEducate, and how the organization supports paraeducators with tools and strategies for fostering inclusive classrooms. From discussing her role and experience in a mostly inclusive district to sharing practic

About the Guest(s): Jen Tennican is a filmmaker specializing in documentary films. She began her career in the late nineties in Boston and later moved to Jackson, Wyoming, in 2002. Jen is known for her award-winning documentaries "The Stagecoach Bar: An American Crossroads" and "Far Afield: A Conservation Love Story," both of which were distributed nationally by American Public Television. Her recent project, "Hearts of Glass," is a documentary that explores the innovative integration of a high-tech vertical hydroponic greenhouse with a social mission to employ individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Jen's work focuses on creating films with community-centric themes and raising awareness on inclusive, sustainable employment practices.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas engages in an insightful conversation with filmmaker Jen Tennican about her latest documentary, "Hearts of Glass". The episode explores the groundbreaking social and agricultural e

About the Guest(s): Annette Jett is the Executive Director of Build Inclusion, a non-profit in Kentucky that specializes in providing employment services for individuals with disabilities. She is a devoted mother to a 13-year-old daughter with disabilities and has leveraged her personal experiences to navigate and understand available support resources. Annette is also an educational consultant, vocational navigation expert, and creator of the "Take Flight" curriculum, aimed at helping students prepare for their vocational journeys.Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Annette Jett about Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and their critical role in helping students with disabilities transition smoothly into the workforce. The conversation delves into the legal framework established by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) of 2014, how Pre-ETS are integrated and implemented in Kentucky, and how these services can signifi

About the Guest(s): Beckett Haight is a National Board Certified special educator with extensive experience in special education across three continents and multiple countries, including Mexico, Ecuador, Kuwait, and the Dominican Republic. An advocate for inclusive education, Beckett has worked in high-need schools and currently teaches at an American school in Mexico. He holds a master's degree in Educational Technology and has shared his insights through speaking engagements, such as his recent TEDx talk on teaching computer science.Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas sits down with Beckett Haight, a seasoned special educator with a global perspective. They delve into Haight's experiences teaching in diverse educational environments and his approach to fostering inclusivity in the classroom. Beckett shares his journey from being a student with an IEP to becoming a passionate advocate for special education.The discussion highlights Beckett's TEDx talk,

About the Guest(s): Dan Habib is an accomplished filmmaker at the University of New Hampshire's Institute on Disability. He is renowned for creating impactful documentaries such as "Including Samuel," "Who Cares About Kelsey?," "Mr. Connolly Has ALS," and his latest work, "Intelligent Lives." Dan’s films have garnered international acclaim, being featured in numerous film festivals, broadcasted globally, and translated into 17 languages. He has been nominated for Emmy awards multiple times, establishing himself as a leading voice in the field of disability inclusion and advocacy.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas converses with distinguished filmmaker Dan Habib about his latest documentary, "Intelligent Lives." The episode takes a deep dive into the significance of inclusive education, the challenges faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities, and the broader societal implications of how we measure intelligence. Habib shares insightful stories abou

About the Guest(s): Nikki Heiman is a veteran special education teacher and a prominent advocate for inclusive education. She is the founder of My Creative Inclusion, a platform offering valuable resources and strategies for inclusive practices. Nikki is also a sought-after speaker, delivering keynotes across the United States on inclusion and disability mindset. In addition to her professional dedication, she is a devoted mother to her 14-year-old son, Trenton, who has Down syndrome.Episode Summary: In this engaging episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas sits down with Nikki Heiman, an influential advocate for inclusive education and founder of My Creative Inclusion. They delve into the significant barriers to inclusive practices in schools and discuss effective strategies to change educators' mindsets around disability and inclusion.Nikki emphasizes the importance of transitioning from a deficit-based approach to a strengths-based model in special education. She shares personal experience

About the Guest(s): Amanda Morin is a renowned expert in the field of special education and advocacy. With a background as a parent, teacher, and early intervention specialist, Amanda has transitioned to a role of education writer and advocate. She currently holds a significant position at the National Center for Learning Disabilities and contributes extensively to their online resource, Understood.org. Amanda is also the author of several books, including "The Everything Parent's Guide to Special Education," "The Everything Kids' Learning Activities Book," and "On-the-Go Fun for Kids: More than 250 Activities to Keep Little Ones Busy and Happy—Anytime, Anywhere."Episode Summary: Welcome to another enriching episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast! In this episode, Tim Villegas sits down with Amanda Morin from the National Center for Learning Disabilities and Understood.org to discuss strategies for transitioning students with disabilities back to school. Amanda shares her insights as a former teacher and advo

About the Guest(s): Paula Kluth is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and consultant specializing in inclusive education and autism. With several acclaimed publications to her name, including "Don't We Already Do Inclusion?" and "Universal Design Daily," Paula is an influential voice in educational reform. Her work focuses on helping educators create effective and welcoming classrooms for all students, particularly those with disabilities.Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes back the illustrious educator and author, Paula Kluth. Known for her significant contributions to inclusive education, Paula delves deep into her latest work, "Universal Design Daily," while also embarking on an enlightening discussion about the dynamic nature of teaching and the continuous evolution of educational practices. Listeners are in for a treat as the episode traverses the intricate landscape of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its crucial impa

About the Guest(s): Kristin Wiens is an inclusion coach based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She is the creator of Northstar Paths, an initiative that provides educational content through stop-motion animation, graphics, and illustrations focused on inclusion, universal design for learning, self-regulation, and mindfulness. Kristin is the author of the children’s book “My Gratitude Jar,” and collaborates with renowned children's entertainer Raffi, designing online courses and graphics that promote his child-honoring philosophy.Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, we host Kristin Wiens, an impassioned educator and inclusion coach from Victoria, British Columbia. Kristin is celebrated for her innovative approach to promoting inclusive education through striking visuals and stop-motion animation via her initiative Northstar Paths. From the creation of her educational content to her substantial impact on teachers and students alike, this episode offers comprehensiv

About the Guest(s): Noah Jack is a talented singer-songwriter hailing from Park Ridge, Illinois. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, Noah's unique journey in music began when he could hum at age four before he could speak. Currently studying music at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, Noah has recently released his heartfelt single, "Neighborhood," which is a tribute to his supportive hometown community. His upcoming EP, "All in the Family," is set to release in January, with each track dedicated to a member of his family.Episode Summary: In this episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Noah Jack, an inspiring musician on the autism spectrum. Noah shares the journey behind his new single "Neighborhood" and his passion for music that began at a very young age. He provides listeners with a glimpse into his life in Park Ridge, Illinois, and his current endeavors at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. The interview explores the deep support from Noah's community a

About the Guest(s): Dr. Rob Horner is a Professor Emeritus of Special Education at the University of Oregon and the Director of the Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). He boasts a 25-year history in research grants, systems change related to school reform, and positive behavior support. With over 150 professional papers and six texts to his name, Dr. Horner's expertise is widely recognized in the fields of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and positive behavioral interventions.Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Dr. Rob Horner, a prominent figure in the special education and behavioral analysis community, delves deep into the interconnected worlds of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Recorded in Marietta, Georgia, Tim Villegas hosts an enriching dialogue exploring the fundamental principles of human behavior, the practical applications of ABA, and how these methodolo

About the Guest(s): Zachary Fenell is a speaker, marathoner, and author who actively champions disability advocacy. Fenell, known as the "Cerebral Palsy Vigilante," uses multiple platforms to dispel misconceptions and inspire others to see possibilities beyond their circumstances. He has written two notable books: Off Balanced, a memoir about living with cerebral palsy, and Rock Realities, which compiles his interviews with Indie and Alternative Rock musicians. Fenell completed a full marathon despite the challenges posed by his condition, further cementing his role as an inspirational figure within the disability community.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Zachary Fenell, also known as the Cerebral Palsy Vigilante. Zachary, a passionate disability advocate, author, and marathoner, shares his extraordinary journey of training for and completing a full marathon despite having cerebral palsy. They discuss the challenges he faced, his meticulous training re

About the Guest(s): John Spencer is a professor in Oregon, an accomplished speaker, and an author known for his works "Empower" and "Launch." He has an extensive background in teaching middle school for over a decade and currently educates future teachers at the university level. John is passionate about empowering students through the maker mindset and design thinking, believing in the potential of all learners, including those with disabilities. His approach revolves around enhancing student engagement and ownership of their learning experience.Episode Summary: Join Tim Villegas in this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast as he sits down with John Spencer, a distinguished professor, speaker, and author. Broadcasting from Marietta, Georgia, Tim explores with John the profound impact of student engagement and the maker mindset in education, highlighting ways to empower ALL students, including those with disabilities, through innovative teaching practices.In this engaging conversation, John Spencer shares h

About the Guest(s): Arielle Hobbs is the founder of The Lion League, a nonprofit organization that focuses on promoting inclusion in schools. She is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and has dedicated her work to creating a curriculum that teaches students how to be more inclusive with their disabled peers. Arielle is a thinker and writer who found her purpose when she had to fight for her son's right to equal opportunities. Through The Lion League, she aims to change the way schools approach inclusion and create a more accepting and understanding environment for all students.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Arielle Hobbs, the founder of The Lion League. They discuss the importance of inclusion in schools and how The Lion League is working to create a more inclusive environment for students with disabilities. Arielle shares her personal experience of fighting for her son's rights and how it led her to start The Lion League. She explains the u

About the Guest(s):Emily Ladau: Emily is a passionate disability rights activist, public speaker, writer, and digital communications consultant. She is the editor-in-chief of a blog for an organization called Rooted in Rights and has worked on various projects related to disability accessibility. Emily believes in making ideas and concepts readily accessible to people with disabilities to create a more inclusive world.Kyle Khachadurian: Kyle does not identify as an activist but is dedicated to bringing about greater understanding of the disability experience. He has experience working in the field of communications and has a background in disability advocacy. Kyle co-hosts the Accessible Stall podcast with Emily, where they discuss disability issues and strive to create a more inclusive society.Episode Summary:In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Emily Ladau and Kyle Khachadurian, the co-hosts of the Accessible Stall podcast. They discuss their journey in starting the podcas

About the Guest(s): Julia Bascom is the Executive Director at the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). She has extensive experience in disability rights advocacy and has served on various boards and councils related to disability equality. Julia is autistic herself and is dedicated to promoting the rights and inclusion of autistic individuals.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Julia Bascom, the Executive Director of the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). Julia discusses the work of ASAN, which is a national grassroots organization run by and for autistic individuals. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and the need for autistic voices to be included in discussions about autism. Julia also highlights the difference between autism awareness and autism acceptance, advocating for a shift towards acceptance and inclusion. The conversation touches on topics such as recovery from autism, inclusive education, and the future Julia envisions fo

About the Guest(s): Audri Gomez has been in the field of special education since 2000. She has worked as a resource specialist and in self-contained classrooms in the K-12 setting for the Newport Mesa Unified School District. Currently, she is an adjunct professor for the Department of Special Education at Chapman University. Aja McKee has worked in the early childhood field since 1996. She teaches early childhood special education for the Capistrano Unified School District and is a certified special education advocate. She also works part-time as an adjunct professor with Cal State University Fullerton in the special education department.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas interviews Audri Gomez and Aja McKee, educators with experience in the classroom and teacher training. They discuss the Disability Studies program at Chapman University and its emphasis on disability as a social construct. The guests explain how disability studies challenges the medical model of disab

About the Guest(s): Debbie Taub is the Director of Research at Keystone Alternate Assessment. With a background as a classroom teacher and school forms specialist, she has extensive experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating alternate assessments for students with significant cognitive disabilities. Debbie has contributed to the field of educating children with complex needs through journal articles, book chapters, and professional development trainings. She is an active member of various committees and advisory groups, including the Council to Promote Self-Determination Education and Workforce Committee and the TASH Inclusive Education Committee.Episode Summary: In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Debbie Taub, an expert in the field of special education alternate assessment. They discuss the concept of alternate assessment and its purpose in measuring the progress of students with significant cognitive disabilities. Debbie shares her insights on how alternate assessment can be a gateway to mo

About the Guest(s): Dr. Cheryl M. Jorgensen is a renowned expert in inclusive education with over 30 years of experience in the field. She worked as a faculty researcher at the University of New Hampshire's Institute on Disability, focusing on inclusive education for students with autism, intellectual, and other developmental disabilities. Dr. Jorgensen is passionate about working with students with Down Syndrome and their educational teams. She has authored numerous books and articles on inclusive education and is highly respected for her expertise in the field.Episode Summary: In this episode, host Tim Villegas interviews Dr. Cheryl Jorgensen, an expert in inclusive education. They discuss the slow progress of inclusive education in the United States and the barriers that prevent its widespread implementation. Dr. Jorgensen highlights the existence of two separate education systems, general education, and special education, which perpetuate the idea that students with disabilities need something different.