In this inspiring episode of Inclusive Insights, hosts Michelle and Nancy sit down with Angel Alexander, Director of The First Hope, for an unfiltered conversation about the evolution of special education, faith, and purpose-driven leadership.

From her unexpected journey into special needs education to redefining what it means to serve neurodivergent students, Angel shares how The First Hope became a sanctuary for students who don’t fit the traditional mold and why that’s exactly the point. 

Together, they discuss what makes First Hope’s model so unique: strength-based programming, life and work readiness, positive behavioral support, and flexible, individualized education pathways. You’ll also hear how students are thriving in inclusive programs, getting real-world job experience, and being empowered to fail forward and find purpose.

Whether you’re a parent navigating the school system, an educator seeking hope, or simply someone who believes every child deserves to be seen and celebrated, this episode will move you. 

Topics include:

• The origin story behind Angel’s leadership at First Hope
• What true inclusion looks like in and outside the classroom
• Rebuilding trust in education after trauma or disappointment
• How Florida’s scholarship programs make private education more accessible
• The hidden menu of education options that empower families and students
• Equipping students not just to pass, but to thrive in life

Learn more about The First Hope: https://thefirstacademy.org/academics/first-hope/

In this episode of Inclusive Insights, hosts Nancy and Michelle sit down with Licensed Mental Health Counselor Brian Krause to explore what it really means to pursue healing from a place of faith, not fear. With over 15 years of experience in pastoral counseling and a no-condemnation approach to therapy, Brian brings a refreshing and practical lens to Christian mental health.

Together, they unpack why many people feel shame around their emotions, how spiritual bypassing can keep us stuck, and what it takes to create space for real transformation. Brian shares his personal journey from the business world to mental health, and how he now helps individuals and couples recognize patterns, build emotional safety, and experience freedom in every area of their lives. 

This conversation challenges the status quo and invites listeners to think differently about mental health, faith, and wholeness. Whether you're in ministry, therapy, or just navigating your own healing, this episode is filled with wisdom, compassion, and actionable insight.

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Inclusive Insights, hosts Nancy and Michelle sit down with Bethany Lowery, wife, mother of three, and founder of The Maddox Mission, to unpack the raw realities and resilient beauty of parenting a child with autism.

Bethany opens up about the moment that changed everything: her son Maddox’s diagnosis on World Autism Day, and the years that followed as she navigated grief, advocacy, and self-discovery. From building a marriage through back-to-back loss to launching a foundation that offers support for parents who often feel forgotten, Bethany shares what it means to embrace a new version of motherhood. Her story is honest, faith-filled, and focused on building connection where there once was silence.

You’ll hear about the emotional weight parents carry, the myth of perfect balance, and how The Maddox Mission is working to provide more than awareness. This episode is for anyone who cares for, supports, or walks alongside families with children who have unique abilities. 

Learn more about The Maddox Mission: https://themaddoxmission.com

We’re back with a powerful new season of Inclusive Insights, and this episode sets the tone beautifully.

Michelle Owen and co-host Nancy Grindle sit down with Brandon Lowery—Marine Corps veteran, executive vice president of iServe, and, most importantly, a devoted father and man of faith. Brandon opens up about his journey as the parent of a child with unique abilities, how his family has grown in love and purpose, and the incredible ways he’s leveraging his leadership to create inclusive opportunities in the workplace. 

From the kitchen of Sonny’s BBQ to life at home with three energetic boys, Brandon shares practical wisdom on navigating business, marriage, and parenting with intentionality and grace. Plus, hear about the transformative impact of real-life work experiences for students with unique abilities—and how one family's advocacy is shifting culture and community for the better.

This episode is heartfelt, honest, and filled with moments that will make you think, laugh, and maybe even tear up a little. 💛

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs

Welcome to "Inclusive Insights", the podcast where we have candid conversations about inclusivity.

In this episode, join us as we sit down with Brian Krause, licensed Mental Health Counselor and Relationship Coach. Krause takes us through the journey of counseling, exploring the biblical wisdom of seeking professional guidance and companionship through life's trials.

Discover the power of inclusivity with us in this enlightening conversation.


Resources:
Professional Counselors: Providence Counseling Center: 
https://www.providencecounseling.org/

Facebook Community Group: Lake Nona Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/137192290859557/

Facebook Community Group: Autism Society of Greater Orlando: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocietyofGreaterOrlando

In-Person Community Group: Little League Baseball Orlando : https://www.celebrationlittleleague.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739880

Developmental Pediatrician, Dr. Frank Lopez: https://www.pediatrix.com/find-care/doctors/lopez-frank-1154453397

Psychologist, Dr. Patrick Gorman: https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/patrick-w-gorman-psyd-1205838935

Occupational and Speech Therapy: https://www.handledtherapy.com/

*These resources are personal recommendations made by our team. We are not sponsored by any organization mentioned in this episode.

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs
Original Music By: Jordan Castillow

Welcome to "Inclusive Insights", the podcast where we have candid conversations about inclusivity.

In this deeply moving episode, join us as we sit down with Tobias and Amber Meek, First Hope parents. Their story is one of resilience, love, and unwavering faith amidst the challenges of parenting a child with unique abilities. This episode is not just a peek into what life looks like with a uniquely-abled child; it's a testament to the power of faith, the depth of parental love, and the strength of a marriage that is centered in Christ. 

Whether you're a parent facing similar challenges, someone looking to understand what such a journey entails, or simply in search of a story that uplifts and inspires, this conversation with the Meeks promises to leave you moved. Tune in to hear Tobias and Amber's invaluable tips for maintaining a healthy marriage, their approach to overcoming the day-to-day challenges, and how they remain a steadfast team through it all. 

Discover the power of inclusivity with us in this enlightening conversation.


Resources:

Facebook Community Group: Lake Nona Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/137192290859557/

Facebook Community Group: Autism Society of Greater Orlando: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocietyofGreaterOrlando

In-Person Community Group: Little League Baseball Orlando : https://www.celebrationlittleleague.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739880

Developmental Pediatrician, Dr. Frank Lopez: https://www.pediatrix.com/find-care/doctors/lopez-frank-1154453397

Psychologist, Dr. Patrick Gorman: https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/patrick-w-gorman-psyd-1205838935

Occupational and Speech Therapy: https://www.handledtherapy.com/

*These resources are personal recommendations made by our team. We are not sponsored by any organization mentioned in this episode.

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs
Original Music By: Jordan Castillow

Welcome to "Inclusive Insights", the podcast where we have candid conversations about inclusivity.

In this episode, we sit down with Kent Suter, a Financial Specialist, as he unveils his remarkable journey of navigating private school finances with four children. Kent sheds light on the pivotal decision his family made to relocate to Florida in pursuit of specialized support for their son with Down Syndrome.

With a wealth of expertise in financial matters, Kent emphasizes the profound significance of investing in children's education, framing it not merely as a monetary endeavor but as an eternal investment in their growth and development. Drawing from his personal experiences, he delves into the unique rewards of raising children in a Christian school environment.

Discover the power of inclusivity with us in this enlightening conversation.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Financial Specialist: Kent Suter, Johnson Financial Group:
[email protected]

Facebook Community Group: Lake Nona Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/137192290859557/

Facebook Community Group: Autism Society of Greater Orlando: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocietyofGreaterOrlando

In-Person Community Group: Little League Baseball Orlando : https://www.celebrationlittleleague.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739880

Developmental Pediatrician, Dr. Frank Lopez: https://www.pediatrix.com/find-care/doctors/lopez-frank-1154453397

Psychologist, Dr. Patrick Gorman: https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/patrick-w-gorman-psyd-1205838935

Occupational and Speech Therapy: https://www.handledtherapy.com/

*These resources are personal recommendations made by our team. We are not sponsored by any organization mentioned in this episode.

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs
Original Music By: Jordan Castillow

Welcome to "Inclusive Insights", the podcast where we have candid conversations about inclusivity.

In this episode, we're diving deep into navigating picking the right school for your uniquely-abled child. Our guests, Carlos & Carolina Flores, are owners of Hi Hello Labs and parents of a child at The First Hope, a Christian Alternative for Unique Abilities Education. Join us on their journey of navigating their son's diagnosis, as well as their journey through entrepreneurship in order to financially provide the best education for their son's unique abilities. From pulling him out of public school to explore private education, their story is one of resilience and hope.

Discover the power of inclusivity with us in this enlightening conversation.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Facebook Community Group: Lake Nona Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/137192290859557/

Facebook Community Group: Autism Society of Greater Orlando: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocietyofGreaterOrlando

In-Person Community Group: Little League Baseball Orlando : https://www.celebrationlittleleague.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739880

Developmental Pediatrician, Dr. Frank Lopez: https://www.pediatrix.com/find-care/doctors/lopez-frank-1154453397

Psychologist, Dr. Patrick Gorman: https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/patrick-w-gorman-psyd-1205838935

Occupational and Speech Therapy: https://www.handledtherapy.com/

*These resources are personal recommendations made by our team. We are not sponsored by any organization mentioned in this episode.

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs
Original Music By: Jordan Castillow

Welcome to the first episode of "Inclusive Insights," the podcast where we have candid conversations about inclusivity.

In this episode, we're diving deep into what life looks like with a uniquely-abled child. Our guest, Angel Alexander, the Director of The First Hope, a Christian Alternative for Unique Abilities Education, and mom of a uniquely-abled daughter, talks about her journey with navigating the diagnosis and what her family's life looks like years after the diagnosis.

Discover the power of inclusivity with us in this enlightening conversation.

Resources mentioned in the episode:

Facebook Community Group: Lake Nona Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/137192290859557/

Facebook Community Group: Autism Society of Greater Orlando: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocietyofGreaterOrlando

In-Person Community Group: Little League Baseball Orlando : https://www.celebrationlittleleague.com/Default.aspx?tabid=2739880

Developmental Pediatrician, Dr. Frank Lopez: https://www.pediatrix.com/find-care/doctors/lopez-frank-1154453397

Psychologist, Dr. Patrick Gorman: https://www.adventhealth.com/find-doctor/doctor/patrick-w-gorman-psyd-1205838935

Occupational and Speech Therapy: https://www.handledtherapy.com/

*These resources are personal recommendations made by our team. We are not sponsored by any organization mentioned in this episode.

Produced By: Hi Hello Labs
Original Music By: Jordan Castillow