Inclusion Starts Now

In this episode, I sit down with my cousin—a rockstar teacher with a gift for managing even the toughest classroom moments. We talk about what behavior really means, how he builds trust with his students, and the strategies he uses to create a calm, respectful environment. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or just curious about what works in today’s classrooms, this episode is full of heart, honesty, and helpful takeaways.

In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the importance of honoring a child’s culture in foster care. I sit down with my partner, Josh, to reflect on our own identities and how they shape the way we parent. Then, I explore the three key parts of culture—visible practices, values, and deep-rooted beliefs—and why recognizing all three is essential when welcoming a child into your home. Whether you're a foster parent, considering fostering, or simply interested in raising inclusive kids, this episode invites you to think deeply about connection through culture.

Sex education is so much more than one awkward conversation. In this episode, I sit down with Kathleen Hema—sex educator, parent advocate, and all-around mythbuster—to talk about why it’s time to rebrand “the talk.” We dive into the foundational messages parents need to build early on, how to foster trust and open dialogue, and what the research really says about kids who get comprehensive, age-appropriate sex education. Whether you’re nervous about starting or unsure where to begin, this episode gives you the tools and confidence to make the conversation a lifelong one.

Subscribe to @KathleenHema for more information and resources.

IG @thekathleenhema

In Part 2 of our conversation on Trump’s executive order about school discipline, we speak with an educator who works directly with children of color to explore how policy decisions shape real experiences in the classroom. We also dig into the roots of implicit bias and share actionable resources for white listeners committed to dismantling racism within themselves and their communities.

Connect with Angela on social media  @SpicyTeacherMKE 

Here are the resources mentioned in the podcast.

"White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack" and "Some Notes for Facilitators"

https://www.nationalseedproject.org/key-seed-texts/white-privilege-unpacking-the-invisible-knapsack

Implicit Bias Test

https://implicit.harvard.edu/implicit/takeatest.html

In this powerful episode, we speak with a special education director who is also the mother of a child with a disability. Together, we unpack the recent executive order encouraging school discipline policies that move away from diversity, equity, and inclusion frameworks. Our guest explains how this policy shift is not just a bureaucratic change—it’s a direct threat to students from marginalized communities, especially Black, Latino, and disabled children, who already face disproportionate rates of suspension, expulsion, and restraint. We explore what this means for inclusive education, how families and educators can respond, and why ignoring equity in discipline isn’t neutral—it’s dangerous.

Connect with Diana on IG and YouTube @DisabilityEdPros ​

In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of our foster-to-adopt journey, from navigating our home study and interviews to the everyday ways we’re preparing our biological kids for new siblings. We reflect on how we talk about sharing, honesty, and boundaries in our home—and how those conversations are evolving as we move forward. Expect a mix of real talk, laughs, and the ongoing ways we’re learning to raise inclusive, empathetic kids in a growing family.

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on our foster-to-adoption journey — the ups, the unknowns, and the beautiful moments in between. We talk about how the process shaped our vision for raising inclusive kids and creating a home where all abilities, backgrounds, and identities are celebrated. Whether you're considering fostering, adoption, or just want to build a more inclusive culture for every child, this conversation is for you.

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https://ko-fi.com/inclusionstartsnow

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I talk with Amy, a dedicated mom whose child was diagnosed with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC), a rare genetic disorder. Amy walks us through their journey—from noticing the first signs to getting a diagnosis—and shares how they’ve been navigating life ever since. We dive into the resources that have helped their family feel supported and informed. Let’s learn something new today and build a little more understanding around rare diseases like TSC.

https://www.tscalliance.org/ Reach out to Amy at [email protected]

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, I sit down with an inspiring educator and author with cerebral palsy to discuss her journey in both the literary and education worlds. She shares the challenges she faces in securing a teaching position, the systemic barriers that make employment difficult for disabled educators, and how she continues to advocate for inclusion. We also dive into the book she wrote, the impact of authentic representation, and what it means to navigate adulthood as a disabled person in a world that often overlooks accessibility.

IG @azisamazing

In this episode of Inclusion Starts Now, we dive into water safety with Carrie, a swim instructor who specializes in teaching neurodivergent children how to swim and master life saving techniques. As summer approaches, Carrie shares expert advice, practical tips, and simple strategies that all parents can use to help their kids feel confident and safe in the water. Whether your child is just starting or needs extra support, this episode is packed with insights to make swimming a fun and inclusive experience for everyone! 🏊‍♂️✨

Check her out at @allkidsswim

Or check out tickets for her webinar on her website www.allkidsswim.com