Think Inclusive Podcast

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.

About the Guest(s): Russ Ewell is the CEO of Digital Scribbler, the founder of Hope Technology Group, and the creator of the communication app Quick Talk AAC. He is also the founder of EA Soccer, an all-volunteer inclusive soccer program dedicated to empowering both typical and special needs children of all abilities. Russ has been a strong advocate for inclusion and has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate in sports and education.Episode Summary: In this episode, Tim Villegas interviews Russ Ewell, the CEO of Digital Scribbler and the founder of EA Soccer. Russ shares the story of how EA Soccer came to be, starting as a small soccer program for his own children with special needs and growing into a nationally recognized inclusive soccer program. He discusses the importance of community and the impact that sports programs can have on the lives of individuals with disabilities. Russ also talks about the founding of Hope Technology School, a full inclusion s

About the Guest(s): Dr. Julie Causton is an associate professor in the Department of Teaching and Leadership at Syracuse University. She is the creator of the website Inspire Inclusion, which provides resources and support for parents of children with disabilities. Dr. Causton has conducted research on inclusive practices, including the landmark project Schools of Promise. She is a leading expert in the field of inclusive education and has worked with schools across the country to promote inclusive practices.Episode Summary: In this episode, Dr. Julie Causton discusses the necessary steps for schools to become more inclusive. She shares insights from her research project, Schools of Promise, which focused on transforming schools to be more inclusive. Dr. Causton emphasizes the importance of professional development for teachers and the need to reimagine the service delivery model in school districts. She also highlights the role of the law in promoting inclusive education and shares examples of successful inc

About the Guest(s): Dan Habib is a former photojournalist turned filmmaker. He gained recognition in the disability rights community for his award-winning documentary "Including Samuel," which chronicled the journey of his son with cerebral palsy. His most recent film, "Who Cares About Kelsey," follows high schooler Kelsey Carroll as she navigates her senior year while dealing with a history of abuse, neglect, and ADHD. Dan is dedicated to promoting inclusion and positive behavior support for students with disabilities.Episode Summary: In this episode, host Tim Villegas interviews Dan Habib about his latest film, "Who Cares About Kelsey." They discuss the importance of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) in schools, the challenges faced by students with hidden disabilities, and the need for leadership and systems change. Dan shares insights from his experiences filming Kelsey's story and highlights the transformative power of inclusive education. The conversation also touches on the upcoming

About the Guest(s): Ariane Zurcher is a Huffington Post blogger and the creator of the blog “Emma’s Hope Book,” which chronicles her experiences raising her autistic daughter, Emma. She is a leading voice in the autism community and advocates for inclusion and understanding. Ariane has gained a deep understanding of autism through her interactions with autistic individuals and has transformed her perspective on the condition.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Ariane Zurcher, a prominent autism advocate and blogger. Ariane shares her journey from knowing nothing about autism when her daughter, Emma, was first diagnosed, to becoming a strong advocate for the autistic community. She discusses the initial reaction to Emma’s diagnosis, the need for a more inclusive approach to autism, and the importance of listening to autistic individuals. Ariane also emphasizes the negative effects of fear-based narratives surrounding autism and the need for a more compa

About the Guest(s): Dr. Paula Kluth is an internationally renowned consultant, author, advocate, and independent scholar. She has worked extensively with teachers and families to provide inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities and create more responsive and engaging schooling experiences for all learners. With a background as a special educator, classroom teacher, and inclusion facilitator, Dr. Kluth has authored or co-authored numerous books on inclusive education, including “Don’t We Already Do Inclusion?”, “100 Ways to Improve Inclusive Schools”, and “You’re Going to Love This Kid: Teaching Students with Autism in Inclusive Classrooms”. She is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and is dedicated to promoting inclusive practices in schools and communities.Episode Summary: In this episode, host Tim Villegas interviews Dr. Paula Kluth, an expert in inclusive education. They discuss the concept of reverse inclusion and whether it can be a stepping stone to authentic inclusion. Dr. Klut

About the Guest(s):Marvin, Sharon, and Dana Fialco are the authors of the Starbella book series.Tara Fialco, the daughter of Marvin and Sharon, is the inspiration behind the series.Tara exhibited a surprising musical talent from a young age and later received a diagnosis of autism.Tara went on to earn a degree in early childhood education and is a self-taught pianist and composer.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Marvin, Sharon, and Dana Fialco, the authors of the Starbella book series. The series is based on the real-life experiences of Tara Fialco, who showed incredible musical talent from a young age but faced challenges due to her autism. The Fialco family shares their journey of discovering Tara’s talent, navigating her social challenges, and advocating for inclusion and acceptance. The Starbella books aim to inspire children to embrace their uniqueness and create a more accepting world. The episode explores the power of music, the bond between

About the Guest(s): Nicole Eredics is an elementary educator with over 15 years of experience in inclusive education. She has worked in British Columbia, Canada, where she taught children with various moderate to severe abilities in fully inclusive classrooms. Nicole is passionate about equal access to education for all children and has used her expertise to support and raise awareness for inclusive education. She is the co-host of the Inclusive Class Radio Show and regularly tweets at @inclusive_class.Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Nicole Eredics, an experienced educator in inclusive education. Nicole shares her insights and experiences from working in the fully inclusive educational system in British Columbia, Canada, and compares it to the US educational system. They discuss the differences in approach to inclusion, the challenges faced by teachers, and the importance of parental involvement. Nicole emphasizes the need for proper training and s