Think Inclusive Podcast

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 social thinking skills.In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas sits down with Michelle Garcia Winner, the mind behind the Social Thinking methodology. With a rich conversation centered around the invisible social rulebook, they discuss how educators and therapists can move beyond teaching social skills as mere behaviors. Michelle unfolds her insights into interpreting social situations, self-advocacy, and flexible thinking, breaking down the complexities into teachable and actionable strategies.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/rethinking-social-skills-teaching-social-

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 independent facilitator writing Person-Centered Plans in California. In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in a compelling conversation with Sandra McElwee, a pioneering advocate for inclusive education. As the mother of Sean, famously known from the TV show "Born This Way," Sandra shares her journey of challenging educational norms to ensure her son had an inclusive education from the 1990s onwards. This episode explores the transformative power of inclusion in schools and the uphill battle families often face within the educational system. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inc

Michelle 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 adjunct instructor at the College of New Jersey, teaching future educators, and earning acclaim for her leadership in inclusive education. Her efforts focus on supporting systemic change through coaching, consultation, and professional development for educators and administrators.In this insightful episode of "Think Inclusive," Tim Villegas hosts Michelle Gardner, interim CEO of All In for Inclusive Education, to discuss the intricacies of systemic change towards inclusive education. Tim and Michelle delve into how schools and districts can transform inclusive education from a mere belief to a practice embraced in

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 the Indigo Girls and Joan Baez. Amassing an impressive array of fellowships and awards, Dom is also an Atlantic Fellow for Health Equity and a recipient of the JM Kaplan Funds Innovation Prize. He resides in Atlanta with his family.In this powerful episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in a significant dialogue with Dom Kelly, steering deeply into the realm of disability justice in schools. The conversation navigates the intertwining facets of inclusion, justice, belonging, and how these play out within educational settings. Dom Kelly, drawing from his multifaceted experiences as a disability advocate a

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 dialogues and transform intentions into actionable outcomes. Drawing from her personal journey and multifaceted identity, Megan emphasizes the importance of belonging and inclusion for both students and educators.In this compelling episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas converses with Megan Ohlssen, an advocate for disability justice and educational equity, about creating schools where every learner belongs. The discussion unpacks what real belonging means in educational environments and emphasizes the intricate relationship between identity and learning. Megan shares personal insights from her divers

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 workplace culture. Giannelli is a nationally recognized keynote speaker known for his authentic storytelling and leadership in diversity, equity, and inclusion spaces.In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in a meaningful conversation with Dustin Giannelli, a prominent advocate for inclusion and accessibility, and the founder of Hears Dustin. Dustin, who is profoundly deaf, shares his life journey, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy, the motto of being "on offense," and how inclusion is a continuous journey rather than a destination. This episode sheds light on the nuances of communication fo

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 to Success” and is the co-founder of Building Blocks of Brilliance Educational Consulting. She collaborates with schools and organizations across the United States to dismantle barriers and create learning environments where all students can thrive.In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages in an enlightening conversation with Andratesha Fritzgerald about cultivating inclusion within schools and communities. Andratesha shares her insights on how educators can maintain hope and purpose amidst the challenges of pursuing equity, citing the pressing need to blend humanity and systemic changes into educa

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, inclusive classroom design, and supporting educators to meet students’ academic, social, and emotional needs. In this episode, the conversation focuses on what it really means for faith-based schools to say yes to inclusion. Colleen McCoy-Cejka and Crystal Brooks talk about how inclusion is often misunderstood and how definitions of inclusion can unintentionally lead to separation instead of belonging. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/inclusive-education-in-faith-based-schools-practical-strategies-for-supporting-all-learners-1323/

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 students with diverse learning needs in general education settings.In this episode of Think Inclusive, host Tim Villegas engages with Dr. Jennifer Spencer-Iiams in an insightful discussion about the journey towards authentic inclusion in school systems. As a leading advocate for inclusive education, Dr. Spencer-Iiams dismantles the myth that inclusion is a "one size fits all" approach. Instead, she underscores the necessity for schools to anticipate variability in classrooms and promote collaboration among educators to cater to diverse educational needs.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclus

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 Affolter about what it really means to teach in ways that honor students as whole people, especially during a time when equity work is being questioned and challenged. The conversation moves between big-picture ideas—like power, history, and schooling—and the everyday decisions educators make in classrooms and systems.Emily unpacks decolonizing education in plain language, framing it as an examination of history, power, and whose knowledge is treated as normal in schools. She explains how culturally responsive teaching is not a label or endpoint, but an ongoing, reflective practice rooted in curiosity, accountability, and

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 leadership studies at Harvard. Her lived experiences—as a Black woman, mother, educator, and advocate—shape the insight and honesty she brings to her work.In this episode, Tim talks with educator and speaker Margo Gross about staying grounded in your values during a time when DEI, inclusive education, and equity efforts are often misunderstood or pushed aside. Margo shares deeply personal stories about identity, hair, culture, and the emotional journey of finding and creating belonging.The conversation explores how to build school environments where students don’t have to shrink or hide who they are, and why disabilit

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, historically grounded perspective to how generative AI is transforming education.Jesse Dukes is a journalist, comedian, and audio storyteller with a long career producing narrative audio. He works with MIT’s Teaching Systems Lab on The Homework Machine project, bringing teachers’ and students’ voices into the public conversation about AI in schools. Previously at WBEZ Chicago, he has produced award‑winning radio and documentary work and has a special talent for capturing humanity and humor in complex educational stories.Generative AI is entering classrooms quickly—but not evenly, and not without complications. In this con

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 equity, belonging, and student engagement. This episode explores how classroom sound shapes belonging, attention, and access—something we don’t always think about in conversations about inclusion. David Solomon from Lightspeed Technologies explains why clear, natural‑volume audio helps every learner, not just students with hearing differences. We also talk about student confidence, teacher vocal health, and the small design choices that make classrooms more inclusive. Complete transcript and show notes: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/how-instructional-audio-transforms-the-inclusive-classroom-with-lightspeed-technol

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 as classroom teachers, special educators, coaches, and district‑level leaders focused on equity, learner variability, and instructional design. In this episode, Tim talks with Matt Guerrero and Tiffany Galloway about how Blue Engine has evolved from classroom‑level co‑teaching support to helping entire school systems build the structures, mindsets, and capacity needed for inclusive education. They discuss the surprising differences—and similarities—across districts around the country, the challenges of scaling inclusive practices beyond a single classroom, and the importance of unified vision, shared language, and pr

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 impairments. She began her career in East Texas, spent several years at the Anchor Center, and now works in the Cherry Creek School District. Jen collaborated with Michael on conceptualizing and designing the multisensory translation of the artwork.Taylor Kingsbery is the parent of Miko, the toddler who explored Michael’s translated artwork. Taylor brings a powerful perspective on accessibility, representation, and what it means to co‑create environments where disabled children can experience belonging and opportunity.This episode explores what it means to translate fine art—not simply replicate it—for young children with v

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 should be seen as a mindset rather than a checklist and how it can dismantle systemic inequities. She uses vivid analogies—like camping trips and tax filing—to illustrate flexibility and access in learning environments. Katie also shares her personal journey from being a struggling student to becoming an education leader, thanks to one teacher’s high expectations. The conversation explores the nuances of inclusion versus inclusive practice, the importance of systemic support for educators, and why high expectations and hope matter most for students.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/k

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 and Jack explain why the system is on a precipice, how misinformation and political agendas distort reality, and what’s at stake for students—especially those with disabilities—if privatization wins. Tim shares a powerful story from the Georgia State Capitol about a parent fighting for inclusion, and the trio discusses why educators and advocates must reclaim the narrative. Plus, we dive into the history of school choice, the rise of vouchers and charters, and end with a lighthearted mystery question from Tim’s 12-year-old.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/public-education-on-the-pr

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 also surpassing fundraising goals for MCIE. Listeners are treated to bold predictions for the future of inclusion, practical tips for educators, and a collaborative spirit that defines the Think Inclusive community.Special GuestsKeith JonesJenna RufoMark CrenshawDiana Pastora CarsonAndrew McEntryeComplete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/think-inclusive-turns-13-1313/

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 of non-speaking students. Lisa shares her journey from public school teacher to innovator, highlighting the importance of presuming competence and understanding apraxia and co-regulation. The conversation covers practical strategies, breakthrough stories, and the need for systemic change in education.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/empowering-non-speaking-students-tools-and-mindsets-for-inclusive-schools-1312/

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 Inclusive to talk about their journey as advocates, podcasters, and friends. They share stories about speaking up for Medicaid in Washington, D.C., challenging ableism in schools, and using their podcast to teach others about inclusion. Their message is clear: everyone deserves to belong and be valued.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/down-syndrome-advocacy-in-action-lessons-from-audrey-and-jeremy-1311/