Assembling Inclusion: Recent Episodes
Assembling Inclusion
We celebrate inclusion and help bring awareness of how to be more inclusive in our daily lives by interviewing individuals worldwide who create, facilitate, or participate in inclusive work.
In this episode, we interview Peggy Stern, the founder and CEO of SuperDville, a social-emotional learning curriculum for students ages 7 to 13 with learning differences.
The curriculum is aligned with the CASEL framework and the foundations of science of reading, including multi-sensory and explicit instruction. SuperDville features short video lessons, which include real kids with learning differences. The curriculum includes talking points, a variety of activities that allow every learner to apply the lesson, and teacher resources. SuperDville can be used in both general education and special education settings and is beneficial for all students. We discuss the successes of the platform during our conversation, including the effectiveness determined by pilot studies. SuperDville also provides resources and guidance for parents, including providing translations into various languages. We also discuss the future of the platform and how SuperDville is a valuable resource for teachers, parents, and students. (Episode Transcript)
- SuperDville website
- The Teacher's Toolbox for Every Child: Buy the book
In this episode, we interview Matt Pierri, founder of Sociability, an app that helps disabled people find accessible places to go and visit. Sociability provides information on various accessibility factors, including physical accessibility for wheelchair access, visual access, hearing access, and sensory accessibility. The app allows users to add their own information and reviews to help others. We talk about Sociability’s mapping days, which are facilitated community activities that help people learn about the app and connect with others. Pierri shares some of the successes of Sociability and the different ways the team is looking to expand the app in the future. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes:
- Sociability website
In this episode, we talk to Ethan Pierce about Adaptive Reader, a platform that preserves student dignity and enhances comprehension through leveled novels. Adaptive Reader uses both the power of technology and humans to customize and adapt classic literature to make it accessible for all readers. The platform allows for a side-by-side comparison between the translated text and the original passage. Designed for supporting both students with learning disabilities and multilingual learners, Adaptive Reader is committed to preserving the integrity of the original text while ensuring that all students can access the material. Ethan also dives into the future of the company and the successes it has had with classroom implementation. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes:
- Adaptive Reader website
- Contact Adaptive Reader
- List of Adaptive Reader texts
This episode will highlight different sessions at ISTE 2024, the International Society for Technology in Education, in Denver, Colorado. We sat down with several presenters who are sharing different sessions about adaptive and assistive technology, special education, adaptive learning, and disability inclusion. We spoke to Katie Fielding, Devon Caldwell, Doris Nhan, and Susan Aplin about each of their sessions, including key takeaways they hope participants will gain from attending their sessions. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes:
Katie Fielding
- Enhancing Classroom Accessibility with AI: Innovative Strategies for Inclusive Education (Monday, June 24 from 2:30-3:30 PM MT)
- Essential for Some, Beneficial to All (Accessibility Playground) (Tuesday, June 25 from 4:00-6:00 PM MT)
- ISTE Ignite Session (Wednesday, June 26 from 10:00-11:00 AM MT)
- The One Where Everyone Learns: Leveraging Book Creator for Universal Design for Learning (Monday, June 24 from 4:00-5:00 PM MT)
- Twitter: KatieF
Susan Aplin:
- UDL in Action in the K-12 Classroom (Monday, June 24 from 8:30-9:30 AM MT)
- Twitter: AplinEdu
Doris Nhan:
- Leveraging Technology and Choice to Reach Students with Learning Differences (Sunday, June 23 from 2:00-3:30 PM MT)
Devon Caldwell:
- Tech Tools Sprint for Inclusive Classrooms (Monday, June 24 from 2:30-3:30 PM MT)
- Twitter (India0309)
- Instagram (kgeducation.ca)
- Website: kgeducation.ca
Katie Nieves Licwinko:
- Artificial Intelligence and UDL: Leveraging AI Tools to Support Student Learning Needs (Sunday, June 23 from 8:00-8:50 AM MT)
This episode is a two parter featuring Carrie Swails. In the first part of the episode, we talk about Carrie’s work with disability advocacy and activism. We discuss Carrie’s DEI work with companies and organizations, including an emphasis on the importance of company culture and clear accommodations processes for creating inclusive workspaces. In part two, we focus on Carrie’s role at Quizizz and their latest updates to support all learners. We discuss Quizizz’s new accommodations profiles, which allow teachers to personalize the learning experience for students by assigning specific accommodations (from a long list of options), so that students receive the support they need. Carrie shares positive teacher feedback, discusses how these profiles can create more inclusive learning experiences and shares about Quizizz’s commitment to accessibility for all learners. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes:
- Quizizz website
- "Differentiate for Every Student's Needs with Accommodations Profiles on Quizizz"
In this episode, we sat down with Syren Nagakyire, the founder of Disabled Hikers, an organization that creates trail guides and resources for disabled hikers. Syren was inspired to create Disabled Hikers after realizing there was a lack of information about accessible trails. The organization’s trail guides are written by disabled hikers, for disabled hikers and uses a spoon rating system to offer a concrete determination of trail difficulty. Syren and Disabled Hikers work with parks and organizations to improve accessibility within outdoor activities. The organization also has a storytelling project and leadership initiative to help empower hikers interested in pursuing disability advocacy in outdoor recreation.(Episode Transcript)
Show Notes
- Disabled Hikers website
- Disabled Hikers Facebook
- Disabled Hikers Instagram
In this episode, we interviewed Jerred Mace from OneCourt, a company that is developing technology to make live sports more accessible to fans with Blindness or Low Vision. The technology uses data from sporting events to create tactile representations and physical sensations via a handheld device, which allows people to experience the game by feeling the vibrations. OneCourt has conducted pilots and trials of the product with positive results, including working with professional sports teams and leagues within their live events in stadiums. The company is also working on integrating audio feedback with the haptic feedback to create a more holistic sports entertainment experience. OneCourt’s goal is to make the live sports experience more accessible for every fan and eliminate the delay barriers that come with solely using sportscast announcing. OneCourt’s technology has the potential to revolutionize the way people with Blindness and Low Vision can experience and engage with live sports. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes
In this episode, we talk to Jari Majewski Price, the founder and CEO of Feel the Beat. Feel the Beat is a nonprofit organization and dance studio in Colorado that is dedicated to creating inclusive and accessible environments in dance education. Founded by Jari and Julia Faliano, who were both Deaf educators at the time, Feel the Beat allows Deaf and Hard of Hearing dancers and dancers with and without disabilities to learn to express themselves through music. Feel the Beat uses an innovative and special bone-conductive dance floor that allows dancers to use the vibrations to guide their movements. In addition, Feel the Beat provides a variety of supports to help all dancers, including specialized training for all instructors and an accessible, adaptive, and inclusive curriculum. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes:
- Feel the Beat website
- Contact Feel the Beat
- Donate to Feel the Beat
In this episode, we talk to Shell Mendelson, career counselor and author of the book A Course for ADHD Adults and Teens: Unlock Your Career Path. Shell discusses her educational journey, and the factors that led her work in career counseling, including her current work with adults and young adults with ADHD. Shell emphasizes that there are no specific jobs that people with ADHD should do, and they should have the same opportunities to explore their interests and identify what fulfills them, which can lead to a meaningful career. During our conversation, Shell shares how the ideas in the book were developed and tested, and why the book is an excellent resource for secondary classrooms, university career centers, and more. This episode is filled with takeaways and ideas for avoiding the status quo and helping people with ADHD find fulfillment in their work. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes
- Buy Shell's book on Amazon
- A Course for ADHD Adults and Teens: Unlock Your Career Path
- Career Coaching with Shell website
- Passion to Career Website
In this episode, we interviewed Allis Kensing, the Enabling Technology Coordinator at Penn-Mar Human Services. Penn-Mar has a new initiative to empower people with disabilities through the use of assistive technology. The initiative includes an assistive technology lending library, which allows people to try out different technologies to see how it can fit into their daily life. Penn-Mar is also working to train the staff on how to use assistive technology to better support their clients and individuals in the community. Allis breaks down assistive technology and its capabilities for us, including how it can be used in communication, mobility, and daily living skills, and shares some of the lending library options, from low-tech devices, like adaptive cutting boards, to high-tech devices like smart speakers. She also shares some of the biggest challenges when it comes to learning about new assistive technologies. (Episode Transcript)SHOW NOTES:
- Penn-Mar Human Services website
- Penn-Mar YouTube channel
- Scissors demonstration
- Giraffe Bottle demonstration
- "Assistive Tech Offers Something for Everybody" article
In this episode, we talk to Matt Tilford from Active Project and the Kelly Brush Foundation. Active Project offers a way for athletes to learn about adaptive sports by creating a community of adaptive sports organizations and athletes. Within the platform, athletes can discover new adaptive sports, find local adaptive sports organizations and programs, and talk to people with spinal cord injuries who are also interested in living an active lifestyle. We talk about how Active Project has grown and changed, as well as its future goals and aspirations. We also discuss the grants and initiatives offered through Kelly Brush Foundation (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes
- Active Project website
- Kelly Brush Foundation Grants
- Kelly Brush Foundation website
In this episode, we talked to Krista Weltner, author of Everyday Adventures with Molly and Dyslexia, a three book children’s book series about dyslexia. During our conversation, we discuss Krista’s decision to represent dyslexia through the personified character of Lexi. The series overall aims to empower children with dyslexia by showcasing their strengths and positive aspects of having dyslexia. Each book centers on a different topic, including asking for help, self-advocacy, and self-confidence. Krista’s series shows that dyslexia can appear differently in individuals, and these unique strengths and attributes are highlighted through the supporting characters across the books. Finally, we dive into how Everyday Adventures with Molly and Dyslexia can be a valuable tool for both children with dyslexia and educators. It allows the children to see themselves represented in the texts they read and gain confidence, while educators can use this as a teaching tool and way to help their students feel seen and empowered in the classroom. (Episode Transcript)
- Krista Weltner website
- Buy Everyday Adventures with Molly and Dyslexia (Bookshop)
- Buy Everyday Adventures with Molly and Dyslexia (Amazon)
- View "Partially Compensated" film
In this episode, we talk to Dr. Coral Hoh, a linguistic expert and the co-founder of Dysolve. Dysolve is an artificial intelligence powered solution for evaluating and addressing dyslexia. During our conversation, Dr. Hoh addresses the problems with the traditional approach to dyslexia evaluations, including scattered assessments and data points that often don’t give a clear roadmap for intervention. Using over thirty years of research, Dysolve provides an individualized evaluation through a gamified platform that allows the root causes of dyslexia to be pinpointed for each student. Dr. Hoh explains the evidence surrounding the effectiveness of Dysolve’s AI in providing intervention and remediation for students experiencing language processing related issues. Finally, we discuss how Dysolve can significantly improve learning outcomes for students, allowing students to overcome challenges with reading more quickly than other approaches. (Episode Transcript)
Show Notes
- Dysolve website
- Research behind Dysolve
In this episode, we interviewed Joe Jamison, founder and CEO of VisitAble. VisitAble is dedicated to accessibility awareness and inclusion training for businesses, addressing the gap these organizations often have in the disability space. The self-paced eLearning courses emphasize the importance of storytelling, focusing on industry best practices, and sharing strategies and ideas actually provided by members of the disability community. VisitAble has had a positive impact on businesses in terms of both clients and current employees.(Episode Transcript)
- VisitAble website
In this episode, we talked to Gregory Liakos, the Director of Gateway Arts, an organization dedicated to providing individualized arts-based services for adults with disabilities, which allow them to find meaningful careers within the art world. Founded in 1973, Gateway Arts is one of the longest-running programs of its kind in the United States, offering a variety of studio art classes, gallery exhibitions, and a retail store featuring artists’ creations in painting, sculpture, fabric arts, and more. We discuss the recent 50th anniversary celebration of Gateway Arts, the revitalization of the community engagement program, and the mentorship and support from other artists. We also discuss how Gateway Arts fosters a supportive environment, where artists with disabilities can develop their skills, express themselves creatively, and gain recognition for their work and talents (Episode Transcript)
- Gateway Arts website
- Gateway Arts online shop
- Donate to Gateway Arts
- Exhibitions and Events Calendar
- Current Gateway Arts artists
In this episode, Brendan Aylward, founder of AdaptX and owner of the inclusive fitness center, Unified Health and Performance, discusses his passion for creating inclusive fitness environments. Within AdaptX, the mission is to provide resources and education to fitness professionals so they can better support their clients with disabilities. During this conversation, we also dove into the common barriers people with disabilities face when trying to access fitness facilities, the importance of universal design in creating inclusive fitness environments, and the role of education to help trainers become more confident and supportive when working with their clients. Brendan also shares his insights on creating a more inclusive fitness experience for everyone. (Episode Transcript)
- AdaptX course
- AdaptX podcast
- Unified Health and Performance website
In this episode, we focus on accessibility and disability inclusion within music festivals. Live music can bring people together but, unfortunately, most venues and events are not inclusive for all music fans. In this episode, we talked to Shawn Satterfield, founder of Shine Music and the Shine Music Festival, an accessible music festival in Colorado. After noticing the barriers and separation people with disabilities face when attending live music events, Shawn was inspired to create a festival with all needs in mind. We discussed how Shine Music Festival works to eliminate barriers and create a space where everyone feels comfortable and welcome. The festival, which is the world’s largest universally-designed music festival, incorporates emerging technologies, sensory spaces, and other accessibility elements to create an experience that everyone can enjoy together. (Episode Transcript)
- Shine Music Festival website
- Become a Shine Music Festival sponsor
- Donate to Shine Music Festival
- About Shine Music
In this episode, Lorraine Woodward, founder of Becoming rentABLE, discusses the challenges and importance of making short-term rentals accessible. She highlights that only 0.01% of short-term rentals in the U.S. are considered accessible and that there is a need for a wider range of accessibility features. Becoming rentABLE provides a platform for listing and certifying accessible short-term rentals using 43 different accessibility filters and features. Woodward also discusses the importance of considering all disabilities, including cognitive and hearing impairments, when considering accessibility. We also discuss the impact that these accessibility changes can benefit all travelers. (Episode Transcript)
- Becoming rentABLE website
- The Little Yellow House (Conway, Arkansas)
- Get your property certified
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we are joined by Kelly Steinke, the president of READ Learning and Silver Moon Spelling. Kelly is a passionate advocate for literacy education, and she has dedicated her career to helping children with dyslexia succeed. In this episode, we discuss the inspiration behind Kelly’s work, her curriculum for research-based literacy instruction, and how to support dyslexic students in the classroom when providing reading instruction. We also learned about READ Learning and Silver Moon Spelling, two organizations that Kelly has founded to provide resources and support for children with dyslexia, their families, and their teachers. (Episode Transcript)
- READ Learning Services website
- Silver Moon Spelling website
- Buy Silver Moon Spelling
- Silver Moon Spelling product demonstrations and videos
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we spoke to Carol Sudhalter and Mimi Block about the Louis Armstrong Legacy Monthly Jazz Jams held at Flushing Town Hall each month. Carol is the jazz house band leader for the jam sessions and Mimi is a frequent performer and an accomplished violinist. In our conversations, both guests share their experiences with music and the impact their participation in the jazz jam sessions has had in their lives. We also discuss the inclusivity of these specific sessions, and how they are open to all performers and create an open, accepting, and encouraging environment. Finally, we discuss the significance of disability inclusion within jazz and performing arts.
- Episode Transcript
- Mimi Block website
- Flushing Town Hall website (Jazz Jam webpage)
- Flushing Town Hall events calendar
- Jazz Jam All-Stars article
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we interview Dr. Sally Izquierdo and Kartika Kumari about their work creating the Neurodiversity Hub at Queens College. The hub provides access to quality resources about neurodiversity and how to support students in the classroom, specifically within higher education. These artifacts can help professors and staff create more welcoming and accessible learning environments. During our conversation, we discuss the process for creating the hub and selecting quality, informative resources. We also talked about the impact that the hub has had on faculty members, neurodivergent students, and their peers. Finally, we discuss the future plans and goals to continue to expand the hub, as well as the importance of supporting neurodiversity within higher education.
- Episode Transcript
- Neurodiversity Hub
- Queens College Neurodiversity Hub article (Inside Higher Ed)
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we interviewed Dr. Kate Siekman about Islands of Brilliance, an organization dedicated to creating learning experiences that support and empower neurodivergent learners. By pairing arts, design, and STEAM content with individual SpIns, different levels of program options, and mentorship, Islands of Brilliance has created a space where children and young adults on the autism spectrum can thrive. We discussed the start of Islands of Brilliance, the different options for programming, and how the organization has created these welcoming, engaging, and supportive learning experiences.
- Episode Transcript
- Islands of Brilliance website
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
Billions of people around the world use assistive technology, but the wide variety of different AT devices, equipment, and products can be overwhelming both for people recommending and adopting technology. Eazilee is a platform and community centered on finding the right assistive technology. We talked to Rebecca Scott about how overwhelming AT decisions can be and how their website acts as a database of user reviews and recommendations that can help people find the right technology for them. This platform offers an intersection between AT users, health professionals, and AT companies and start-ups and provides a global community of support. (Episode Transcript)
- Eazilee Website
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we interview Rich Padulo, founder of Treat Accessibly, an organization dedicated to making Halloween more inclusive. We talk about the story of how Rich and his family were inspired to start Treat Accessibly, We also discuss strategies people can follow to ensure they are creating an inclusive trick-or-treating experience for everyone in their community. Rich also shares how the movement has grown, from signs on houses to increasing disability awareness, to creating full-scale Halloween Villages on streets. (Episode Transcript)
- Treat Accessibly website
- Rich's email: founder@treataccessibly.com
- Get a free Treat Accessibly lawn sign
Click here to earn your PD certificate for listening
Introduction and conclusion music: "You Can Do More" by lemonmusicstudio
In this episode, we interviewed Mariella Satow about SignUp, a free Chrome extension that provides an overlay with sign language interpretation for popular Netflix and Disney + movie content. We discuss the inspiration behind starting this extension, how interpreters are hired, the process of selecting and interpreting a movie, and future plans for expansion. SignUp is being used by members of the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, in schools, for family movie nights, and for people learning sign language or training to become an interpreter. (Episode Transcript)
- SignUp extension (Chrome Web Store)
- SignUp website
- How to activate and use SignUp
- Apply to be an interpreter (Google Forms)
Birding is a popular outdoor activity that millions of Americans enjoy, but did you also know that it is an extremely adaptable hobby? In this episode, we talk to Freya McGregor, who founded Access Birding, an organization that provides consulting and training services related to birding, accessibility, inclusion, and disability. We discuss the work Freya has done with different outdoor organizations to make their trails, signs, and programming more accessible for birders. We also discuss her research related to accessible birding and a book she is currently working on about accessible birding spots in the United States. (Episode Transcript)
- Access Birding Website
- Access Birding Merchandise
In this episode, we talk about the barriers facing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Because of financial barriers, transportation barriers, and other issues facing these patients, the New York State Academic Dental Centers created a fellowship to support the pathway of dentists into specialized care for patients with disabilities. We talked to Jonathan Teyan and Dr. Tung Nguyen about their work within the fellowship and how this type of initiaitve is impacting accessibility and disability inclusion within dental care. (Episode Transcript)
- NYSADC fellowship information
In this episode, we talked to Michelle Ridsdale from Kaboose, an app that provides a safe space for the autistic and neurodiverse community to make friends with common interests. We also talked about future developments of the app, including job matching, mentorship, and tips. (Episode Transcript)
- Website
- Contact Information
- Kaboose Google Play
- Kaboose Apple Store
In this episode, we recap our first year of episodes (001 to 046) by sharing different themes that have been revealed including clips and updates from our first season of guests (Episode Transcript)
- Season One Episodes by Theme (including links to updates)
In this episode, we interview Emma Clegg and Molly Rogers, creators of JAM the Label. JAM is an adaptive clothing label based in Australia, which creates accessible, functional, and fashionable clothing with people with disability in mind. We talk about the inspiration behind starting JAM, how they collaborate and work with people in the disability community, and the future of adaptive and accessible fashion. (Episode Transcript)
SHOW NOTES
- Jam the Label website
- "How to Create an Accessible Photoshoot"
- Magnetic Shirts
- Bamboo Elastane Sensory-Friendly Tees
In this episode, we interviewed Sharron Rush from Knowbility and discussed all things digital accessibility. Knowbility has a variety of programs, including Be a Digital Ally, which focus on breaking down digital content guidelines and bringing awareness to the barriers that can be experienced when dealing with digital content. (Episode Transcript)
- Knowbility Website
- Be a Digital Ally Program (including upcoming webinars!)
- Accessibility Internet Rally (AIR)
In this episode, we talk about accessible and inclusive travel with Alvaro Silberstein, creator of Wheel the World. We discuss how Wheel the World uses data points to provide insight into the accessibility of travel locations, accommodations, attractions, and activities around the world. Wheel the World also has pre-built inclusive itineraries and works with travel organizations to ensure accessibility with their offerings. (Episode Transcript)
- Wheel the World website
In this episode, we talk to Lauren Heil, the creator of Stickity, a free and accessible add-on for Google Docs and Google Slides. We discuss how Lauren came to design Stickity, the different graphics and animations that exist within the stickers, and how these digital stickers can increase accessibility, decrease teacher workload, develop classroom routines, and help students find success. (Episode Transcript)
- Stickity for Google Docs
- Stickity for Google Slides
- Stickity website
In this episode, we interview Dorean White from United Sound, an organization dedicated to removing barriers and fostering social inclusion through music. We talk about their peer mentorship program, the structure of their middle school, high school, and college chapters, the benefits of participating in this program for all musicians, and their innovative instructional method for making learning music more concrete and accessible. (Episode Transcript)
- United Sound Website
- Learn more and start a chapter (info@unitedsound.org)
In this episode, we interview Aubrie Therrien and Sandy Gladstone-Karpe about EPIC Players, an inclusive theater company in New York. We talk about their program structure, the types of shows they produce, the work they've done on making theater inclusive both on and off the stage, and the company's commitment to empowering and supporting their artists. (Episode Transcript)
To buy tickets for the upcoming production of Into the Woods, please click the link below:
Into the Woods tickets
In this episode, we interview Chris Hastings from Snoezelen, a company that creates multisensory rooms and spaces. We talk about how these rooms are designed and their various equipment and features, as well as how these spaces are beneficial to a variety of different people with different needs. (Episode Transcript)
- Timelapse video of room creation
- Snoezelen room image gallery
In this episode, we talk to Jodi Asbell-Clarke from TERC about the INFACT project, which stands for Including Neurodiversity in Foundational and Applied Computational Thinking. INFACT has developed an inclusive program to teach computational thinking skills in grade 3-8 by embedding supports and multiple modalities, so all students can find success. We also talk about neurodiversity in STEM and education. (Episode Transcript)
- TERC Website
- INFACT Program Page
In this episode, we interview Dr. Rachel Levy from VoiceItt. Voiceitt is an iOS and web-based speech recognition app for people with speech disabilities, disorders, or impairments. We talk about the difference between the apps and how people can use them for training to understand their unique speech patterns for communication with smart home devices or with others. We also talk about how the app is being used across different environments and the impact the app has on independence. (Episode Transcript)
- Happy New Year from Voiceitt video
In 2015, Travis Davis presented his TEDx Talk, "Incluse Me: Social Inclusion in Education." Today, we catch up with Travis about his background and the impact of that speech. We also talk about the work he's been doing, including his work with schools and his podcast, as well as discuss the importance of inclusion within education overall. (Episode Transcript)
- Travis Davis TEDx Talk
In this episode, we talk to Brooke Allen of the Diverse Learners Cooperative, an organization dedicated to providing support for teachers and school teams to better support all students and their needs. We talk about the organization's dedication to authentic and meaningful professional development and training, how schools can work with the Diverse Learners Cooperative to co-design school solutions, and the fellowship program to provide leadership experiences and opportunities for special education teachers and multi-language teachers. (Episode Transcript)
- Diverse Learners Cooperative Website
In this episode, we interview Nate Tilton about the Disability Lab at UC Berkeley, a fully accessible and disability-inclusive makerspace. We talk about the creation of the space, its role as an identity makerspace, the design of the lab space and accessibility of the equipment, and the different projects that have been done and are currently being done. We also talk about topics related to disability in higher education. (Episode Transcript)
- Disability Lab Website
In this episode, we interviewed Vanessa Castañeda Gill, the CEO of Social Cipher, all about her company and its flagship game, Ava. Social Cipher is an SEL game focused on neurodivergent youth ages 10-15. We discuss the game, its impact on students, the way they utilize student feedback, and the overall representation for the neurodivergent community that the game provides. (Episode Transcript)
- Social Cipher Website
Social Cipher Social Media Channels:
- YouTube
In this episode, we talk to Sheryl Burgstahler about DO-IT, a program that has operated out of the University of Washington for the past thirty years. We discuss the various programs DO-IT has for helping support students with disabilities attending college and going into various fields of employment. We also talk about how the program trains higher education faculty and employers on accessibility and universal design. (Episode Transcript)
- DO-IT Website
- AccessComputing Community
- DO-IT Scholars
In this episode, we interview Ed Dernulc and Cindy Day all about NBT's Inclusion Manufacturing Camps. We discuss the past two inclusion camps they have run, which focus on providing four weeks of training for individuals with disabilities to help them gain meaningful employment within the manufacturing industry. We also discuss the program's future and how it has been beneficial for employees so far (Episode Transcript)
- Nuts, Bolts, & Thingamajigs (NBT) serves to inspire, encourage, and support the next generation of manufacturing workers.
- Scholarships are awarded twice each year for the spring and fall semesters to students pursuing a degree, certification, or skills training program that leads to a manufacturing career.
- NBT Summer Manufacturing Camps
- Inclusion Manufacturing Camps
- WBAY Appleton video highlighting the VPI Inclusion Manufacturing Camp
In this episode, we talk to Kent Streeb from Enchroma, a company that uses patented lens technology to design glasses for people with color vision deficiencies. We talk about colorblindness, the importance of ensuring school and work environments are accessible, and their program that brings their lenses to museums, schools, universities, and national and state parks. (Episode Transcript)
- Enchroma Website
- Color Blindness Test
In this episode, we interview David Hojah from Parrots, a company that designs technology to empower individuals with neurological challenges. Discover the different software options from Parrots and the considerations they gave to the design process to ensure that individuals can live more independent lives.
- Parrots Website
In this episode, we interviewed Barbara Pape and Jessica Jackson from Digital Promise and discussed the Learner Variability Project. Specifically, we talk about the Learner Variability Navigator and the IEP Project and how both of these initiatives can help educators, students, and edtech companies work toward being more inclusive of the diverse needs of all learners. Some topics include research-supported practices and how to build strengths-based IEPs. (Episode Transcript)
- Learner Variability Navigator
- Readworks Study
- Professional Learning Resources
Sample Workspaces
- Assessment Anxiety
- Dyslexia
- Fostering Student Engagement
- Opening Math Routines
In this episode, we interview Aaron Kelley from PlayVS and Brian Quinn from Special Olympics International about unified eSports. This program allows students to play on one inclusive, unified video game competition team. We talk about the structure of this program, how the program can make schools more inclusive, and the benefits for everyone involved. (Episode Transcript)
- PlayVS Website (with Special Olympics Unified Information)
- Find a Special Olympics Office Near You
In this episode, we're talking all about Mentra with Shea Belsky! Mentra is a neurodiversity employment network that partners neurodiverse job-seekers with positions that fit their unique strengths and employers who value their skillsets. We also talk about how the platform is being used to support universities and service providers. (Episode Transcript)
- Mentra Website
- Shea Belsky Social Media (LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter)
In this episode, we talk to Tara Coucharine and Kristin Robinson about Clusive, a free, customized and adaptive learning tool that provides support for students while reading digitally. (Episode Transcript)
- Clusive
- Clusive Guides (for parents, students, and parents/caregivers)
In this episode, we interviewed Aaron Gustafson about Microsoft AI for Accessibility, a program that focuses on accessibility innovation and provides grant funding to different projects and initiatives. We discuss the structure of the program and the different projects that have been funded over the past few years, as well as the future direction the program will be taking in the future. (Episode Transcript)
- Microsoft AI for Accessibility Website
- Projects that have been funded by the grant
In this episode, we talk about adaptive sports and inclusive sports programming with Tyler McGregor from All Sports All People. We discuss the organization's school outreach program, which promotes inclusion awareness for youth and teaches about adaptive sports, their partnerships with community recreation departments, and how their organization is helping to bring more inclusion and accessibility to sports for all athletes. (Episode Transcript)
- All Sports All People Website
In this episode, we interview Mary Theresa Archbold from the Theatre for All program at Queens Theatre. Theatre for All is a theatre program that is intentional about making stages inclusive for all performers. They work with actors in the disability community to provide training and advocacy within the performing arts.(Episode Transcript)
- Theatre for All Website
- Queens Theatre Website
- Donate to Theatre for All
In this episode, we talk about Career Technical Education (CTE), emerging technologies in agriculture, and inclusion. I sat down with three members of the Growing Hope Project-- Sherryl Anderson, Barbara Pastuchek, and Brit Steele. They discussed the mission of Growing Hope, which partners Night Owl Bay with the San Bernardino City Unified School District to provide career pathways. At least 50% of the students at the school receive special education services. The program helps put students on different career pathways, teaches them about hydroponic farming using technology, helps increase their confidence, and helps them connect to the community. (Episode Transcript)
- Growing Hope Project website
In this episode, we interview Dave Dolan from Veative. We discuss the Veative platform and all of the content available to students, including STEM lessons that are more concrete and accessible. We also talk about uses for language learners and the capabilities for differentiation and personalized learning, as well as data collection for teachers. (Episode Transcript)
- Veative Website
In this episode, we interview Joann Blumenfeld about the Catalyst program, an inclusive STEM program that helps students find their pathway toward STEM careers. Joann and I talk about her experience in education, the importance of creating an accessible and inclusive curriculum to ensure all learners are successful, the value of placing high expectations for all learners, and the overall success of the Catalyst program. For anyone who wants to learn more about how to create more inclusive STEM opportunities for students in preparation for post-secondary success, check this episode out! (Episode Transcript)
- Catalyst Website
- Catalyst "Reach for the Stars: Be a Star" Support
In this episode, we interview Kay Gayner and Agnes McConlogue Ferro from the DREAM Project at National Dance Institute. We discuss DREAM and how it helps make dance inclusive for everyone, including how the program and inclusion overall benefit the dancers, audience, and families (Episode Transcript)
- DREAM Website (Dancers Realize Excellence through Arts and Movement)
- DREAM 2019 Event Performance
In this episode, we spoke to Jen Schlegel. We talk about her start-up company, all of her ideas, her work with Ohio Tech Ambassadors, and her views on accessibility and assistive technology. (Episode Transcript)
- Ohio Tech Ambassadors Website
- Beenabled Website
In this episode, we interview Christian Kane about creating the Field of Dreams complex in Toms River, New Jersey. Field of Dreams is an all-inclusive complex with a playground, fields, interactive areas, and events with the goal of being physically and socially inclusive for everyone, regardless of age or abilities. (Episode Transcript)
- Field of Dreams Website
In this episode, we interview Gil Dori from EyeHarp, an organization that created the first musical instrument that can be played with eye gaze or head movements. We discuss how EyeHarp helps bring music to individuals with physical disabilities, including how it can make music creation and education more inclusive. (Episode Transcript)
- EyeHarp Website
- EyeHarp Performance Gallery
- Circles & Circuits Performance featuring Joel Bueo on EyeHarp
- EyeHarp Project YouTube Performances
In this episode, we interview Sarah Sandelius, the Chief Executive Officer of The Ability Challenge. The Ability Challenge works with schools to make sure that students with diverse learning needs are supported. We talk about the role of data within special education programming decisions, the importance of and team staff collaboration in inclusion work, the resources that The Ability Challenge has available for schools, teachers, and leaders, and the impact the organization has had on making schools more inclusive for all learners. (Episode Transcript)
- The Ability Challenge Website
- The Ability Challenge Free Courses
In this episode, we interview Dr. Becca Monteleone, an Assistant Professor of Disability Studies at the University of Toledo. We talked about the power of storytelling within self-advocacy and allowing participants to own their own voices, identities, and experiences. (Episode Transcript)
- Dr. Monteleone's Storytelling Curriculum
- SALUTE Storytelling Videos
In this episode, we interview Deetra Mitchell, the Self-Advocate Community Inclusion Specialist for the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities. We are specifically talking about SALUTE, Self-Advocates LUcas TolEdo. SALUTE has done amazing work with self-advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Members of the organization have owned their voices to influence businesses, gain employment, change policy and legislation, and make a positive difference in their communities. (Episode Transcript)
- SALUTE Website
- Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities Twitter, YouTube, Instagram
In this episode, we interview Kevin Delecki, the programming manager at the Cedar Rapids Public Library. We talk about the sensory inclusion initiative within the library and how they have worked to ensure that they are inclusive of individual needs in every part of their library to make community patrons feel accepted and comfortable (Episode Transcript)
- Cedar Rapids Website
In this episode, we interview Susie Blackstein-Adler and Christy McDonald who were part of the team who created the debug'd Coding Curriculum. debug'd Coding is a Universal Design for Learning (UDL), inclusive coding curricula that supports all students. We talk about the logistics of the curricular materials and coding kits, as well as how the program's design has been successful in bringing coding to every single student. (Episode Transcript)
- debug'd Coding Website (Bridges)
- debug'd Coding in Action (video)
In this episode, we interview Mark Barlet and Andy Wu from AbleGamers, an organization dedicated to inclusive gaming with the mission of "combating social isolation through play." We discuss their work with supporting gamers to find accessibility solutions for gaming with peer counseling, creating prototypes for inclusive gaming through engineering research, and training game designers to make games more accessible with professional development. (Episode Transcript)
- AbleGamers Website
- Accessible resources for game developers
- Support for gamers with disabilities
In this episode, we interview Simmi Goomer and Symon Hayes, who both work at Eye to Eye National, a nonprofit organization with the mission of improving educational experiences and outcomes for every student who learns differently. Simmi is the Chief Learning and Impact Officer, and Symon is the Director of Professional Learning. We discuss Eye to Eye's near-peer mentorship program, pairing students who learn differently in high school and college and pairing them with middle schoolers. The professional development program provides training to general and special educators. (Episode Transcript)
- Eye to Eye National Website
- Near-Peer Mentoring
- Professional Learning
In this episode, we interview Jacob Corey, one of the co-founders of Happy Valley FitLink, an inclusive wellness program for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers and families. This program brings together adaptive fitness and wellness seminars while supporting the building of friendships and community. Learn more about how to run this type of inclusive health and fitness program and the benefits of this type of programming (Episode Transcript)
- Website
- TikTok
- Email Address: happyvalleyfitlink@gmail.com
In this episode, we interview Dr. Tara Mason, one of the co-founders of the Dis/Ability Film Festival. In this episode, we talk about the festival's mission, the types of films that have been produced, and inclusive education. (Episode Transcript)
- Film Festival Website
- Western Colorado University M.A. in Special Education
In this episode, we interview Robert James Gabriel from Helperbird. We discuss the features of the all-in-one extension and how it can be used to create inclusive environments that support everyone. (Episode Transcript)
- Helperbird Website
In this episode, we talk to Megan Bremond, who runs the iFit inclusive fitness program at Crossfit Mandeville. We talked about inclusive gyms, her classes' structure, and fitness benefits for all athletes. (Episode Transcript)
- Website
- Email Address
In this episode, we talk to Vijay Ravindran, founder and CEO of Floreo, to discuss how virtual reality can be used to support the neurodiverse population in learning social skills by creating an immersive experience. (Episode Transcript)
- Website
- Research Studies
- Floreo Lesson Library
In this episode, we talk to Brittany Jacobs and Allison Richert from the Burlington Public Library about how they are making the library both more sensory friendly and more inclusive for the needs of all library visitors (Episode Transcript)
In this episode, we interview Stacey Forsyth from the Build a Better Book initiative. We talk about how this project uses existing makerspaces in schools and libraries to create meaningful, inclusive resources (Episode Transcript)
- Build a Better Book Website
- Examples of Build a Better Book Projects
- Connect with Build a Better Book Project
In this episode, we interview Alex Dunn from Enabled Play about the platform and how it's making gaming, schools, speech therapy, and workspaces more inclusive. (Episode Transcript)
- Enabled Play Website
- Making Every Computer More Accessible (video)
- Playing Elden Ring with Enabled Play (video)
- Using Enabled Play for Speech Therapy (video)
In this preview, learn more about the purpose of our podcast and what we hope to achieve. Check out some sound bytes from our first three episodes where we talk about inclusive gaming with Enabled Play, sensory inclusion with the Burlington Public Library, and inclusive making with Build a Better Book.