The Inclusion Podcast

Welcome to ”The Inclusion Podcast” —your go-to source for making inclusive education a reality. Whether you’re a school leader, educator, advocate, parent, paraprofessional, or simply passionate about creating more inclusive school spaces, this podcast is for you. In each 15-minute episode, we dive into the heart of inclusive education, offering expert insights, real-world strategies, and answers to burning questions on how to make every classroom welcoming for all students, PreK-12. From redefining what special education is (and isn’t) to understanding Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and exploring cutting-edge co-teaching practices, we cover the essential topics that help schools transform. Join us as we break down complex ideas into actionable steps, challenge outdated special education practices, and provide you with the tools to create environments where every student thrives. Whether you’re navigating the challenges of inclusive change or looking to elevate your practices, we’re here to inspire, motivate, and guide you every step of the way. Ready to create schools where everyone belongs? Tune in and let’s build a more inclusive future together.

Ep. 32 The Educator’s Lifeline: 10 Strategies to Support Challenging Behaviors

In this episode, we explore how educators can navigate challenging behaviors in the classroom using the 'Boat Captain' analogy. We discuss how to support students in moments of fight, flight, freeze, or faint and share 10 lifeline strategies to help bring them back to a ready state. Tune in to learn how to stay anchored and create a safe, inclusive environment for all learners. Don’t forget to download your free one-pager with all 10 lifelines at https://inclusiveschooling.com/download32!

11-12
18:07

Ep. 31 Understanding LRE and Its Role in Supporting All Learners

In this episode, we dive into the concept of the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and explore how it plays a crucial role in creating inclusive classrooms. Through the real-life story of a student with Down syndrome, we discuss practical strategies for supporting all learners and ensuring they thrive alongside their peers. Tune in as we break down the key elements of LRE and share tips for implementing these practices in your own educational setting. Don’t forget to download our free multiple-page checklist of supplementary aids and services at https://inclusiveschooling.com/download31 as your key to success.

10-01
18:51

Ep. 30 The Recipe for Real Inclusion: 9 Must-Have Ingredients

What does true inclusion in education look like? In this episode, we break down the nine essential ingredients needed to create a genuinely inclusive environment. From redesigning systems to partnering with families, we share actionable insights and strategies to help schools embrace and implement inclusive practices. Download the handout to get the full recipe at inclusiveschooling.com/download30.

10-01
16:58

Ep. 29 But inclusion isn't fair to the other students: What to say!

"Inclusion Isn't Fair to Other Students" – A statement that sparks frustration, anger, and heated debates in education. But what if we gave you 22 clever and well-crafted responses to that statement?  In this episode of The Inclusion Podcast, hosts Kristie and Julie tackle common and misguided objections to inclusive education. They explore why the phrase "Inclusion isn't fair" is not only harmful but rooted in ableism, and offer practical, compassionate responses—whether you're a parent, teacher, or advocate for students with disabilities. Don’t miss our free handout: "22 Ways to Respond to the 'Inclusion Isn't Fair' Statement" - download here: https://inclusiveschooling.com/download29. This resource will equip you with actionable tools to turn difficult conversations into opportunities for change. 

09-24
14:46

Ep. 28 Yes! Even students with VERY complex communication needs, with Darlene Hanson (part 2)

This is the second part of my conversation with Darlene Hanson. It is for the most challenging students in our system.  Listen and share with everyone you know who supports students without verbal communication.  Darlene Hanson and I are finally teaming up together to work on the concept of inclusion with students with limited communication. Can't wait to let these episodes (episode 27 and 28) take flight in the world. 

05-11
27:12

Ep. 27 Yes! Even students with VERY complex communication needs, with Darlene Hanson (part 1)

This podcast is for the most challenging students in our system.  Listen and share with everyone you know who supports students without verbal communication.  Darlene Hanson and I are finally teaming up together to work on the concept of inclusion with students with limited communication. Can't wait to let these episodes (episode 27 and 28) take flight in the world. 

05-11
26:40

Ep. 26 Ripples of Resilience with Paul Wesselmann

This podcast is all about how to cope during this new and weird time!  Paul has an abundance of thoughtful advice to keep everyone thriving!  Enjoy!

05-02
23:29

Ep. 25 COVID 19 and Special Education

In this episode we discuss the legal and practical decisions that school administrators, educators and parents have to understand during these changing times.  I am joined by Patrick Radel an incredible special education lawyer and Tanya Fredrich a talented and passionate school administrator.    Please enjoy and let us know what you need in our next episode.  Sending you love and good health!    

03-20
37:15

Ep. 24 Education as Equity with Becky Anderson

Becky Anderson is an incredibly inclusive English teacher.  In this awesome episode she share how teachers can lead inclusive change in their own classroom.  From how to create true community to  how to be sure students can see themselves on the shelf (or in the books they read) and so much more.  Share this with every general education teacher you know.  Because, as Becky says... our students are waiting!

03-15
26:10

Ep. 23 HOW to Shift Mindsets about Special Education with Dr. Jenna Rufo

When it comes to Inclusive Education, the first thing that needs to shifts are outdated ideas and MINDSETS about special education.  For example, "But this student needs functional skills."  Or, "I can't do it because --they can't keep up." or "Our system is just fine as it is- why make any changes" 

03-01
19:25

Ep. 22 The IEP and Inclusion

The IEP is the tool for designing and documenting inclusive education.  This episode covers everything you need to know if you are on an IEP team in any capacity. Great for parents, teachers and administrators alike to really understand how the special education laws work together to help you document and create inclusive school experiences for students.  

02-15
09:06

Ep. 21 The ART of Seeing in Inclusive Classrooms with Sherrill Knezel

I love this episode!  Here I am joined by artist and friend Sherrill Knezel. First, we discuss "seeing" in terms of visual representations (sketch noting) as an access point for students in inclusive classrooms.  Second, she shares the art of really seeing students, loving them, and reflecting their best selves back to them- in a story about Jaden.  You won't want to miss this one.  AND she shares my favorite strategy for supporting a student who challenges the regular flow of the classroom.  So...have a challenging student?  Listen with your whole heart. 

01-30
24:15

Ep. 20 Courageous Perseverance: A Conversation with Dr. Paul Gordon

Superintendent Dr. Paul Gordon and I discuss what does honest conversation and courageous perseverance have to do with creating truly inclusive schools.  Send this to your superintendent.  Share with your administrators.  Listen, enjoy and let's make schools excellent together!

01-11
29:56

Ep. 19 Bring Inclusion to YOUR district with Dr. Julie Causton and Dr. Tanya Fredrich

In this episode Dr. Tanya Fredrich and I bring our collective years of expertise together leading Inclusion Institutes to offer you a road map to host your own inclusion institute in your area with our help.  We share all of the exciting logistics to build a sustainable network of support for inclusion in your own backyard.  Listen, take notes and share this with your administrators.

10-19
18:24

Ep. 18 My (Un)Special Education- Brianna-Behavior

If you support, teach or love any person whose behavior is not easily understood, you must listen!  Brianna explains some very humorous and very serious examples of how challenging behavior is often a sign of intelligence and is ALWAYS important communication.  

09-09
30:08

Ep. 17 My (Un)Special Education- Brianna-Friendship

Join us for this episode where Brianna Dickens shares many thoughts about the best and worst ways to help students create friendships in schools.  You will not want to miss it!  Also share with anyone who teaches or loves a person with Autism who may be longing for friendships and connections.

09-09
15:38

Ep. 16 My (Un)Special Education- Brianna-Communication

In this Episode Brianna Dickens tells you how to honor all different types of communication. If you work with, know, or love anyone who does not use speech reliably-- you MUST listen!  

09-06
21:57

Ep. 15 My (Un)Special Education- Brianna- Competence

In this episode, Brianna Dickens and I discuss her experience in a self-contained special education and the work it took for her to be seen as competent.  This is the perfect episode to share with anyone who knows and loves a person whose intelligence is not immediately obvious because of communication issues.  

09-06
16:21

Ep. 14 The Journey- Leading Systems Change with Dr. Tanya Fredrich

Everyone who is looking to create a more inclusive school district MUST listen to this one.  Here I interview Dr. Tanya Fredrich- a giant in the area of inclusive leadership and director of student services in Elmbrook, WI. Please share it with every administrator in your life!  We discuss many shortcuts and we warn you of potential obstacles on the way to making your inclusive dreams a reality.  Have a seat—grab some paper and a pen (trust me).

03-08
36:23

Ep. 13 The Too Much Unicorn

In this podcast, my co-author Caitlin Caron and I discuss our brand new children's book The Too Much Unicorn.  This book empowers girls everywhere to embrace the beauty of being joyfully, stylishly, and confidently your just right self.  Share wildly with your TOO MUCH unicorns.

02-20
16:03

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