Episodes

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Dr. Kristen Williamson, a late-diagnosed neurodivergent counselor, autism advocate, and proud “neurospicy” mom. Together, they explore how inclusion looks for those with invisible disabilities, why autism presents differently in women, and how workplaces can better support neurodivergent employees. With humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, Dr. Kristen shares her journey from personal diagnosis to professional advocacy...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron sits down with Paolo Gaudiano, author of Measuring Inclusion and founder of Aleria.tech, to explore a data-driven, business-savvy approach to inclusion. Paolo shares how inclusion is not just a moral issue but a financial one—and how companies are “bleeding money” when exclusion goes unchecked. They unpack the real meaning of DEI, the dangers of diversity checkboxes, and how to reduce backlash while creating meaningful culture change. Whet...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with resilience coach and chronic illness warrior Jenn Fredericks. Together, they explore Jenn’s journey through two kidney transplants, her daughter's courageous battle with a brain tumor, and the power of resilience in the face of long-term health challenges. Jenn shares practical strategies for building resilience, the deep role of faith and intuition in her healing, and how curiosity can be a gateway to true inclusion. This h...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes ADHD coach and author Sue Day for a powerful conversation about inclusion, neurodiversity, and practical strategies for thriving with ADHD. Sue shares her personal journey from an undiagnosed child in the '80s to a passionate advocate and coach helping others understand their extraordinary brains. Together, they unpack common misconceptions about ADHD, its impact on daily life, and the importance of meeting diverse needs to create...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Marlee Kivens, a trailblazer in disability advocacy and independent living. Marlee shares her powerful journey of living with spina bifida, gaining independence through accessible kitchen tools, and challenging stereotypes about disability. She opens up about her path from relying on daily care to becoming a successful Pampered Chef consultant, advocating for inclusive products, and educating others on empathy and accessibil...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Kem Frasier, an inspiring educator and leader who shares her journey and powerful insights on creating real inclusion in schools and communities. Together, they explore the importance of mindset, the necessity of intentional leadership, and the critical role both educators and parents play in building environments where everyone belongs. Kem reflects on personal and professional lessons that highlight how inclusion is not just a p...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Emily Levy, founder of EBL Coaching, to explore practical strategies for inclusive education. Emily shares her journey growing up in special education, the importance of early advocacy, and how research-based multisensory techniques help all students thrive. They dive into empowering parents, navigating IEPs, and the vital role empathy plays in inclusion. Whether you're new to special education or a seasoned advocate, this c...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron sits down with Stephanie Fluger, founder of Connection Therapy Clinic, to explore the raw realities of parenting a neurodivergent child. Stephanie shares her personal journey from overwhelmed mom to inclusion advocate, and how her clinic puts families first with neurodivergent-affirming, play-based therapy. Together, they discuss the gaps in traditional therapy models, the power of authentic parent support, and what true inclusion looks li...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Jack Kammer, retired social worker and men's advocate, for a heartfelt discussion about the importance of fatherhood, inclusion, and nurturing masculinity. They explore the often-overlooked role of dads in special education spaces, societal expectations around gender roles, and the subtle pressures men face when choosing caregiving over career ambition. With personal stories and powerful insights, this episode challenges assumptio...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron sits down with Debra Erickson, founder of The Blind Kitchen, to talk about blindness, independence, and inclusive cooking. Debra shares her journey of losing her sight later in life, how she navigated culinary school as the only blind student, and the adaptive tools and techniques she now teaches others. Her story is a powerful reminder that inclusion means recognizing someone’s humanity first. Whether you're a cook or a curious ally, this...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes writer and editor Heidi Fiedler for a heartfelt conversation about parenting, inclusion, and navigating the IEP process. Heidi shares her family’s journey with autism, the importance of finding supportive school communities, and how creativity sustains her identity as a mother and individual. Together, they reflect on the evolving definitions of inclusion, the role of empathy in education, and the hidden labor of caregiving. Wheth...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes entrepreneur and neurodiversity advocate Pazbi Zavatzki. Pazbi shares his journey from childhood cancer survival and temporary paralysis to a late ADHD diagnosis and becoming a champion for neurodivergent inclusion. They explore the power of shared stories, the domino effect of diagnosis, and why universal design benefits everyone. Pazbi also opens up about how ADHD shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and his mission to create acces...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Danielle Sullivan, a neurodivergent educator, writer, and founder of Neurodiverging, about redefining inclusion through the lens of neurodiversity. Danielle shares her personal journey with autism and ADHD, highlighting the power of embracing one’s identity and the importance of community. Together, they discuss how parents, educators, and systems can shift from pathologizing to empowering neurodivergent individuals. This heart...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Craig Parks — a dad, musician, and longtime advocate for kids with special needs. Craig shares his journey raising a son on the autism spectrum, the power of music in building connections, and his "Parenting A to E" framework designed to help parents foster joy and lasting memories with their kids. He highlights the importance of support networks, inclusive environments, and embracing curiosity over judgment to build a more connec...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes Hollis Peirce — a disability advocate, historian, and podcaster — to discuss accessibility, ableism, and the power of inclusive design. Hollis shares personal stories, from navigating inaccessible spaces to performing accessibility audits at music festivals, while advocating for a social model of disability. The conversation highlights the impact of technology, the importance of lived experiences, and how true inclusion requires s...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Maria Chapman, a ghostwriter and founder of Journey 2 Success, a nonprofit supporting disabled entrepreneurs. Maria shares her powerful journey from teaching to medical retirement due to a neuromuscular condition, highlighting the barriers she faced — from workplace discrimination to denied Social Security benefits — and how she turned those struggles into a mission to empower others. She dives into practical steps for inclusive e...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes author and chronic illness advocate Sara Willoughby. Sara shares her journey with chronic illness, discussing the challenges of misdiagnosis, navigating relationships, and finding community through her online Diamonds Conference. She highlights the importance of inclusion through awareness and intentional invitation. Sara also reflects on how faith has been a foundation in her journey, offering hope amidst suffering. Together, the...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron interviews Dr. Craig Hane aka Dr.Del, a math educator passionate about making math accessible and practical. Dr.Del shares his insights on why traditional math education often fails students, the importance of teaching only the math people actually need, and how technology—like scientific calculators and AI tools—can revolutionize learning. He also discusses his experiences in NASCAR, business, and technical training, demonstrating how mat...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes disability advocate Jenna Udenberg. Jenna shares her journey from being diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis at age seven to becoming a passionate accessibility educator and founder of Above & Beyond With U. She discusses her experiences growing up in a wheelchair, challenges with ADA compliance, and the importance of going beyond minimum accessibility standards. Jenna also talks about her book Within My Spokes, her Bush F...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Emmy-winning filmmaker Dan Watt, director and producer of Everybody Dance, a documentary about the transformative power of dance for children with disabilities. Dan shares his journey from Hollywood producer to documentary filmmaker, driven by a passion for telling meaningful stories. He discusses the impact of inclusive dance spaces, the importance of focusing on similarities rather than differences, and the lessons he learned wh...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Janet Elliott, author of The Alien Savant, to discuss her nonverbal autistic brother Michael’s journey. Janet shares personal stories of her family's fight for inclusion in a time when institutionalization was the norm. She highlights the importance of recognizing individual strengths, advocating for neurodivergent individuals, and ensuring accessibility in everyday life. The conversation also explores historical deficiencies in s...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron interviews Devon Wieters, a disability advocate and podcast host. Devon shares her advocacy work on the SSI Restoration Act and the struggles disabled individuals face due to restrictive government policies. She discusses her experiences with cerebral palsy, accessibility, and the systemic challenges in disability services. The conversation also highlights the impact of social stigma, Medicaid waivers, and ways to improve inclusion. Devon ...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with writer and speaker Emily Goodson about her journey with disability, self-acceptance, and inclusion. Emily shares her experience of acquiring a disability at age eight, navigating internalized ableism, and eventually embracing her identity. She discusses how disability has shaped her career in HR and made her a more empathetic leader. Emily highlights the importance of representation, open conversations, and inclusion in workpla...

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes Lois Letchford, a literacy specialist and author, to discuss her son’s journey from being labeled as a failure in first grade to earning a PhD in Applied Mathematics from Oxford. Lois shares how traditional teaching failed her son and how she transformed his learning through creative, hands-on methods. They explore the impact of labels, the importance of social inclusion, and how parents can advocate for their children. The conver...