Think Inclusive

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-precipice-narratives-inclusion-and-whats-at-stake-1314/

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/

Jordyn Zimmerman is a passionate educator, disability advocate, and accessibility innovator. Diagnosed as autistic and denied access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) until age 18, Jordyn’s work centers on ensuring every learner has the tools and supports they need to thrive. Their advocacy is rooted in personal experience with segregation and inclusion, making their voice essential for building more inclusive schools.In this episode, Jordyn Zimmerman shares their journey from segregation to meaningful inclusion in schools. The conversation covers the importance of presuming competence, the need for accessible communication, and how policy and practice must evolve to create truly inclusive communities. Jordyn also discusses their work with the Nora Project and Center for Enriched Living, and what it means to measure success beyond just placement numbers.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/designing-schools-for-belonging-jordyn-zimmerman-on-inclusion-and-aac-tools-1310/

Meghan Ashburn is a mother of autistic twins. She's an educational consultant who is passionate about inclusion and accessibility. Meghan is the creator of Not an Autism Mom and hosts That Au-Some Book Club.Jules Edwards is an autistic activist and parent of autistic children. She is the writer of Autistic, Typing, and works to educate the community and influence policy to promote disability justice.Meghan Ashburn and Jules Edwards join Tim Villegas to talk about their journey from online tension to collaboration, co-authoring a book that challenges dominant narratives about autism and disability. They discuss why inclusive classrooms benefit everyone, the ethics of autism research, and the importance of learning out loud.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/disability-justice-and-inclusion-meghan-ashburn-jules-edwards-speak-out-1309/

Madison Tevlin is an actor, advocate, and podcaster known for her breakout role in the film Champions and her viral YouTube performances. Madison’s work centers on authentic representation in media, advocating for inclusion that goes beyond disability. She is the host of the upcoming podcast 21 Questions, which celebrates identity, energy, and connection. Madison’s advocacy extends to inclusive classrooms and authentic storytelling, and she is passionate about being recognized for her personality and talents rather than her diagnosis.In this episode, host Tim Villegas talks with Madison Tevlin about her journey as a performer and advocate. Madison shares insights from her experiences on inclusive film sets, the importance of being seen for who you are, and her vision for representation in media. The conversation explores Madison’s creative process, her new podcast 21 Questions, and her advice for educators on fostering authentic inclusion in schools. Madison’s story is a powerful reminder that the least interesting thing about a person is their diagnosis, and that true inclusion means celebrating everyone’s unique identity.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/how-madison-tevlin-redefines-disability-in-media-and-hollywood-1308/

Dr. Jen Newton is an Associate Professor of Special Education at Ohio University and founder of Teaching is Intellectual. Jen works to re‑imagine general education as the default setting for all learners and centers belonging, access to curriculum, and accountability for systems so that inclusion is real, not just a placement.Tim and Jen unpack what “general education” really means under IDEA: not a room, but the default setting for every learner—with supports, adaptations, and shared responsibility across a school. They clarify why “least restrictive environment” (LRE) is not a place, how ableism shows up in decisions, and what families and educators can do now to advance authentic inclusion.Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/general-education-has-to-be-for-everyone-1307/

Will Parker is an educator, author, and executive coach. Will helps school leaders build strong cultures, communication, and community through his work at Principal Matters. He’s a former principal and host of the Principal Matters podcast. Will’s work matters for inclusion because he supports educators in leading with heart and compassion, especially during challenging times. In this episode, Tim Villegas talks with Will Parker about navigating the emotional weight of current events, the impact of political rhetoric on schools, and how educators can stay grounded in their mission to serve students. The conversation centers on leading with compassion, focusing on local action, and finding hope in everyday relationships. The episode is intentionally broad so listeners can apply the insights to many situations. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/navigating-school-leadership-in-chaotic-times-a-conversation-with-will-parker-1306/

Brit Barron - Speaker, author, and comedian. Brit’s work explores how we stay connected in a polarized world, focusing on empathy, belonging, and liberation for all people. Brit’s book, Do You Still Talk to Grandma?, dives into cancel culture and navigating relationships with people we love but deeply disagree with. Their work matters for inclusion because it helps people build bridges in schools, communities, and families. Brit Barron joins Tim Villegas to talk about how to get better at disagreement—without giving up your values or just being nice. They discuss why empathy isn’t weakness, how our bubbles can hurt us, and how educators can lead with compassion even when values clash. The conversation is honest, friendly, and full of practical wisdom for anyone trying to build more inclusive communities. Complete show notes and transcript: https://mcie.org/think-inclusive/how-to-talk-to-people-you-disagree-with-insights-from-brit-barron-1305/