Best Aaron DeVries Podcasts (2025)

1
Beyond the Sentence: Disability, Bias, and the Legal System with Matt Melvin - Episode 118 32:29

Play Pause

3h ago32:29

32:29

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Matt Melvin, author of Bullied Behind Bars, about inclusion, transformation, and the role faith plays in healing and justice. Matt opens up about his experience with autism, impulsivity, incarceration, and the powerful lessons learned through adversity. Together, they discuss the …

1
NERD_0371 Powerful Play with Amanda Morgan 38:21

3h ago38:21

38:21

Child development expert Amanda Morgan returns to That Early Childhood Nerd to discuss her new book, “Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood,” in which she calls out myths and pressures that push play aside and makes a compelling case for bringing it back. Find more Amanda here: https://notjustcute.com/ Order the boo…

1
How to Be a Better Ally at Work and Beyond with Dr. Victoria Mattingly - Episode 117 29:22

2d ago29:22

29:22

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Dr. Victoria Mattingly, CEO of Mattingly Solutions and author of Inclusalytics, for a powerful conversation on allyship, inclusive leadership, and redefining DEI. Dr. V shares her unique two-book approach to allyship, why empathy and active listening are game changers, and how her li…

1
After the Storm: A New Beginning with David Vrablik #143 1:02:18

2d ago1:02:18

1:02:18

David Vrablik is a passionate traveler and values-driven individual, guided by faith, family, and a deep appreciation for meaningful experiences. Whether exploring new destinations, bird hunting, enjoying music, or spending time with his beloved dogs, Callie and Riley, David finds joy in the simple and profound. As the founder of NBM (New Beginning…

1
Navigating College with Neurodivergence: A Parent's Guide with Dr. Eric Endlich - Episode 116 32:10

5d ago32:10

32:10

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Dr. Eric Endlich, founder of Top College Consultants, to explore college readiness and inclusion for neurodivergent students. From practical advice on navigating college admissions to insights on empathy and identity-first language, Dr. Endlich shares decades of lived and professi…

1
Inclusion Starts with Literacy: Eye Reading & Ear Reading with Daniela Feldhausen - Episode 115 34:25

8d ago34:25

34:25

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Daniela Feldhausen, founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, to explore the connection between literacy and inclusion. Daniela shares her inspiring journey from lawyer to reading advocate and offers deep insights into dyslexia, dysgraphia, and the science of reading. She explains how inclu…

1
Building Life After High School for Autistic Adults with April Ratchford - Episode 114 31:16

13d ago31:16

31:16

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with April Ratchford, an autistic occupational therapist and advocate for neurodivergent young adults. April shares her personal journey as a late-diagnosed autistic individual, her experiences parenting an autistic son, and the systemic gaps that exist in post-secondary support for au…

1
NERD_0370 Surviving the Child Care Crisis with Kisa Marx 38:36

14d ago38:36

38:36

Kisa Marx joins host Heather Bernt-Santy to talk about her powerful Exchange article, “A Letter to Educators: Surviving the Child Care Crisis.” Find the article here: https://hub.exchangepress.com/articles-on-demand/50396/ More about Kisa’s work: https://theplaylabnfpoakpark.org/the-play-lab Thanks for listening! Save 10% on professional developmen…

1
Disability, Motherhood, and the Fight for Belonging with Julie Barth - Episode 113 34:30

16d ago34:30

34:30

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Julie Barth, a mother of six and founder of the Colin James Barth Outreach. Julie shares her journey raising a daughter with primordial dwarfism. Together, they explore the realities of disability parenting, the meaning of true inclusion, and the power of resilience. Julie challen…

1
Faith, Disability, and the Power of Empathy with Desiree Taylor - Episode 112 30:41

20d ago30:41

30:41

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron sits down with Desiree Taylor, a deaf author, advocate, and mom, to discuss her personal journey with hearing loss and raising a child with the same condition. Desiree opens up about navigating an inaccessible education system, embracing her identity, and transitioning from legalism to a pers…

1
NERD_0369 Heather Wrote a Book 1:02:36

22d ago1:02:36

1:02:36

Host Heather Bernt-Santy thought she was joining a recording session to discuss an article shared by Lizz Nolasco–but surprise! The Nerds ambushed her–tricking her into talking instead about her upcoming book Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early Childhood! The book will be out in the fall of 2025, keep your eye out on That Ea…

1
Beyond the Diagnosis: Seeing the Divine in Our Children with Kanika Vasudeva - Episode 111 39:36

25d ago39:36

39:36

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Kanika Vasudeva, an energy coach and Akashic records healer, for a powerful conversation on soul contracts, energetic healing, and inclusion. Kanika shares how children with disabilities may bring deep spiritual lessons and how parents are often part of sacred agreements to help shif…

1
Faith, Disability, and the Power of Belonging with Jeannie Ewing - Episode 110 34:28

29d ago34:28

34:28

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes author and speaker Jeannie Ewing for a heartfelt conversation about parenting, inclusion, grief, and redefining faith. Jeannie shares her journey of raising a daughter with Abert syndrome, navigating neurodivergence in her family, and transforming grief into purpose. They explore how…

1
NERD_0368 The Power of Pretend with Mike Huber pt 2 58:55

30d ago58:55

58:55

Mike Huber is back to dig into ideas about how pretend play supports focus, impulse control, and self regulation. And what about super hero play? When children imitate superheroes from tv or movies, can that be considered imaginative? It’s a fun conversation! Buy the book here: https://www.redleafpress.org/Power-in-Pretend-Supporting-Young-Children…

1
Empowered Parents: Bridging the Gap to Inclusive Schools with Dr. Diana Fannon - Episode 109 34:17

1M ago34:17

34:17

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Dr. Diana Fannon—special education director, bilingual school psychologist, and parent of a child with autism. Together, they explore the power of informed consent, the importance of transparency in IEP meetings, and how lived experience fuels inclusive advocacy. Dr. Diana shares how…

1
Judgment-Free Notes: Inclusion and Empathy Through Music with Lital Yohay - Episode 108 27:11

1M ago27:11

27:11

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Israeli singer-songwriter and genre-blending artist Lital Yohay. Lital shares her personal journey with a hearing disorder, her unique definition of inclusion, and how music serves as both escape and connection. From growing up in silence about her condition to using sound as a tool …

1
NERD_0367 The Power of Pretend with Mike Huber pt 1 49:37

1M ago49:37

49:37

Mike Huber has a new book! He joins host Heather Bernt-Santy for the first of (we hope) many conversations about his book The Power of Pretend: Supporting Children’s Power, Identity and Agency. Buy the book here: https://www.redleafpress.org/Power-in-Pretend-Supporting-Young-Childrens-Power-Identity-and-Agency-Through-Play-P3107.aspx More about Eve…

1
Making Music Matter: Inclusion Through Music Therapy with Samantha Foote - Episode 107 30:24

1M ago30:24

30:24

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Samantha Foote, a board-certified music therapist, neurodivergent mom of three, and podcast host of Every Brain is Different. They explore Samantha’s journey of parenting neurodivergent kids, navigating therapy overload, and using music as a tool for healing and expression. Samantha …

1
Seizures, Strength and Storytelling: Parenting Through Challenges with Constance Lewis - Episode 106 32:19

1M ago32:19

32:19

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Constance Lewis, a nurse practitioner turned children’s book author and mom of three, to explore how emotions, inclusion, and advocacy intersect. Constance shares her family’s emotional journey navigating her son’s seizures, the inspiration behind her upcoming children’s book C…

1
NERD_0366 Teacher Research and Teacher Survival with Aaron Neimark 46:54

2M ago46:54

46:54

San Francisco Transitional KG Teacher Aaron Neimark joins host Heather Bernt-Santy to talk about being a teacher researcher and challenging yourself to survive and thrive! For more of Aaron’s work: 1) Do You Want to See Something Goofy? Peer Culture in the Preschool Yard 2) Learning from Children’s Humor: Peer Culture as a Teaching Tool (book chapt…

1
Jesus, Justice, Inclusion and the LGBTQ+ Believer with Romell Parks-Weekly - Episode 105 29:29

2M ago29:29

29:29

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Pastor Romell Parks-Weekly for a powerful conversation on faith, identity, and inclusion. Romell shares his journey as an openly gay pastor in a formerly non-affirming church, unpacking how biblical interpretation, cultural context, and lived experience shape his theology. They discu…

1
Beyond the Label: Creating a Life of Inclusion and Joy with Karen Hale - Episode 104 37:47

2M ago37:47

37:47

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Karen Hale—life coach, podcast producer, and mother of a son on the autism spectrum. Karen shares her family’s powerful journey through diagnosis, exclusion, and advocacy, revealing how her son defied limitations to thrive in professional sports. Together, they explore how labels, em…

1
NERD_0365 Early Childhood MAYtriarchy–bell hooks and Cheng Xueqin 54:20

2M ago54:20

54:20

Welcome to Early Childhood MAYtriarchy 2025, where we celebrate the contributions of women to the work of early childhood. In this episode: Denisha Jones shares how the work of bell hooks has influenced her and informed her work. Krystina Tapia talks about her life changing experience visiting the Anji schools founded by Cheng Xueqin, and how Ms Ch…

1
Delilah vs. the Ghastly Grimm: A Story of Inclusion and Strength with T.L. McCoy - Episode 103 32:38

2M ago32:38

32:38

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes author and psych nurse T.L. McCoy, who shares the heartfelt inspiration behind her children's book Delilah vs. the Ghastly Grimm. Written for her granddaughter with Dravet syndrome, the book champions disability representation in children's literature. T.L. opens up about her family'…

1
Neurodivergent, Not Broken: Rethinking What ‘Normal’ Means with Dr. Kristen Williamson - Episode 102 32:22

2M ago32:22

32:22

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 neur…

1
NERD_0364 Early Childhood MAYtriarchy: Constance Kamii, Rhonda DeVries, Ellen Key and Alva Myrdal 53:01

2M ago53:01

53:01

Welcome to Early Childhood MAYtriarchy 2025, where we celebrate the contributions of women to the work of early childhood. In this episode: Stephanie Goloway shares the accomplishments and contributions of Constance Kamii and Rhonda DeVries. Suzanne Axelsson brings two Swedish women to the conversation: Ellen Key and Alva Myrdal. I love doing this …

1
How Companies Are Bleeding Money by Ignoring Inclusion with Paolo Gaudiano - Episode 101 32:55

2M ago32:55

32:55

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 unchecke…

1
Building Resilience Through Chronic Illness and Caregiving with Jenn Fredericks - Episode 100 39:50

2M ago39:50

39:50

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…

1
NERD_0363 Early Childhood MAYtriarchy: Dr. Millie Almy, Caroline Pratt and Magda Gerber 45:54

2M ago45:54

45:54

Welcome to Early Childhood MAYtriarchy 2025, where we celebrate the contributions of women to the work of early childhood. In this episode: Lizz Nolasco blows Heather’s mind with her discussion of play advocate Dr Millie Almy. Gemma Medina expands our understanding of Caroline Pratt and her work beyond the wooden unit blocks we often associate with…

1
Breaking ADHD Myths & Building Inclusive Spaces with Sue Day - Episode 99 33:42

2M ago33:42

33:42

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 extraor…

1
How Accessible Design Fuels Independence with Marlee Kivens - Episode 98 30:07

2M ago30:07

30:07

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 rely…

1
NERD_0362 Early Childhood MAYtriarchy: Eve Trook, Dr. Marianne Gibbs, and Bev Bos 53:00

2M ago53:00

53:00

Welcome to Early Childhood MAYtriarchy 2025, where we celebrate the contributions of women to the work of early childhood. In this episode: Mike Huber shares about how he has been influenced by Eve Trook and her ideas on having power on, power for, and power with children. Stacy Benge shares about Dr Marianne Gibbs, and occupational therapist who h…

1
The Story Behind Chandler the Handler and Inclusive Leadership with Kem Frasier - Episode 97 22:54

2M ago22:54

22:54

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 parent…

1
The Power of Advocacy: Inclusion Starts at Home with Emily Levy - Episode 96 20:11

3M ago20:11

20:11

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 empo…

1
NERD_0361 The Sleepover Sessions–Consent 38:05

3M ago38:05

38:05

It's spring break 2025 and host Heather Bernt-Santy has invited some of the TECN nerds to Indianapolis for a four day sleepover!In this episode, Heather and some of her favorite people discuss how to navigate the idea of "consent" with young children. Want to support the show? Make a one time gift, or become a member and get bonus content like free…

1
Why Traditional Therapy Fails Parents and What We Can Do About It with Stephanie Fluger - Episode 95 31:40

3M ago31:40

31:40

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…

1
Smashing Stereotypes: Nurturing Masculinity with Jack Kammer - Episode 94 38:00

3M ago38:00

38:00

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 s…

1
NERD_0360 The Sleepover Sessions–Losing Yourself in Caring 38:23

3M ago38:23

38:23

It's spring break 2025, which means the Nerds are descending on Indianapolis for four days of nerdy fun! In this episode, host Heather Bernt-Santy and nerds Lizz Nolasco, Mike Huber, Kisa Marx, and Bethany Corrie wonder about what happens when we lose ourselves in our caring work.Want to support the show? Make a one time gift, or become a member an…

1
The Blind Kitchen: Inclusion Through Adaptive Cooking with Debra Erickson - Episode 93 35:55

3M ago35:55

35:55

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 tea…

1
Creative Motherhood and the Power of Storytelling with Heidi Fiedler - Episode 92 31:57

3M ago31:57

31:57

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 in…

1
NERD_0359 The Sleepover Sessions–Just Say the Words 32:33

3M ago32:33

32:33

It's spring break 2025, and that means it's time for the second Nerd Sleepover! This episode comes to you from an Airbnb in beautiful Indianapolis, where host Heather Bernt-Santy gathered with some of her very favorite nerds. In this episode, we discuss challenges to "DEI"--what if we said the words every time instead of hiding behind the acronym? …

1
Neurodiversity at Work: Why We All Benefit with Pazbi Zavatzki - Episode 91 33:46

3M ago33:46

33:46

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 diagn…

1
From Behavior to Belonging: Shifting the Education Lens with Danielle Sullivan - Episode 90 33:40

3M ago33:40

33:40

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 c…

1
NERD_0358 The Sleepover Sessions–Data is Not Evidence 42:24

3M ago42:24

42:24

It's spring break 2025, which means it's time for the second Nerd Sleepover in beautiful Indianapolis! In this episode, Mike Huber invites us to consider whether "data" and "evidence" are the same thing, and as you might have guessed from the title, we decided it's not! Listen in as host Heather Bernt-Santy and some of her favorite nerds hash out c…

1
The Power of Music in Raising Kids with Special Needs with Craig Parks - Episode 89 35:26

3M ago35:26

35:26

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 w…

1
The Fight Against Ableism: Disability Advocacy in Action with Hollis Peirce - Episode 88 41:04

4M ago41:04

41:04

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 so…

1
NERD_0357 Play is Inherently Political with Kelsie Olds, the Occuplaytional Therapist 51:57

4M ago51:57

51:57

In February 2025, occupational therapist Kelsie Olds, who hosts a facebook page called The Occuplaytional Therapist, published a post that struck a nerve--leading to almost 4000 reactions to date, and almost 2000 shares. The post is a powerful statement on the political nature of play, of respecting children, of supporting families, and taking care…

1
Navigating Career Loss, Disability, and Entrepreneurship with Maria Chapman - Episode 87 30:38

4M ago30:38

30:38

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…

1
From Isolation to Community: Building Support Networks with Sara Willoughby - Episode 86 31:39

4M ago31:39

31:39

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 awa…

1
Why Traditional Math Education Fails & How to Fix It with Dr. Craig Hane aka Dr. Del - Episode 85 42:39

4M ago42:39

42:39

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 cal…