Best Aaron DeVries Podcasts (2025)

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

8h 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…

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

2d 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
Season 2 Episode 3: The Weight You Carry That No One Sees 9:30

11h ago9:30

9:30

They don’t see the mental tabs you keep open. The reminders, the meal planning, the birthday cards, the calming down, the checking in. They don’t see the emotional labor—because you make it look effortless. But just because it’s invisible doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy. In this episode of Surpassing Labels, we’re naming the unseen, unthanked, and ofte…

1
SC .5: Surpassing Circles Begins: A Tribute to the Stories That Still Need Telling 3:39

11h ago3:39

3:39

Welcome to the Surpassing Circles Spotlight Series—a sacred space within the Surpassing Labels Podcast devoted to honoring the voices, stories, and resources from the special needs and disability community. This isn’t a pivot. It’s a return. Because while this podcast has grown to include women’s healing, identity, and emotional freedom… it was bor…

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

12h 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…

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

6d 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…

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

10d 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
Season 2 Episode 2: The Roles We’re Praised For Are the Ones That Are Killing Us 8:59

2d ago8:59

8:59

You’re the strong one. The reliable one. The one who holds it all together. And the world praises you for it. But here’s the truth no one talks about: The very roles we’re applauded for are often the ones eroding us from the inside out. In this bold and deeply honest episode of Surpassing Labels, we’re naming what so many high-functioning, soul-exh…

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Season 2 Episode 1: A Return, A Rise, A Reintroduction 3:19

3d ago3:19

3:19

Welcome back to Surpassing Labels—the podcast for the woman who’s done disappearing and is ready to come home to herself. In this reintroduction episode, I’m sharing the heart behind Season 2. Because while this space began with stories from the special needs and disability community, it’s grown—because I’ve grown. If you’re new here: I’m Felicia S…

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

14d 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…

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

6d 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…

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

17d 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

21d 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

23d 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 …

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

17d 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…

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

28d 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…

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

20d 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…

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

22d 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…

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

26d 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

28d 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…

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

29d 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…

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

1M 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

1M 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 fre…

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

1M 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…

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

2M 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

1M 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 a…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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

2M 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? W…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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

2M 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…

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The Future of Accessibility: Why We Must Go Above & Beyond with Jenna Udenberg - Episode 84 38:06

3M ago38:06

38:06

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…

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Everybody Dance: The Power of Inclusion in the Arts with Dan Watt - Episode 83 41:27

2M ago41:27

41:27

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…

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The Power of Advocacy: Lessons from The Alien Savant with Janet Elliott - Episode 82 31:59

3M ago31:59

31:59

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 strength…

1
NERD_0356 Play and the Hesitant Child 40:54

2M ago40:54

40:54

In another episode that was originally intended as a sessionin a virtual NerdCon conference that didn’t happen, Richard Cohen, Lizz Nolascoand Bethany Corrie talk about children who seem hesitant to join in play. Want to support the show? You can make a one time $5 or moregift, or become a member for bonus content! Find more informationhere: buymea…

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Beyond the Stigma: Disability, Independence & Social Perceptions with Devon Wieters - Episode 81 35:12

3M ago35:12

35:12

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 ch…

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The Power of Self-Acceptance: How Disability Shaped My Life with Emily Goodson - Episode 80 31:15

3M ago31:15

31:15

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 h…

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Inclusion Beyond the Classroom: Social & Emotional Learning Matters with Lois Letchford - Episode 79 31:58

3M ago31:58

31:58

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…

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Making Inclusion Practical: Jobs, Education & Policy for Autism with Crystal Jordan - Episode 78 33:15

3M ago33:15

33:15

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes autism advocate and philanthropist Crystal Jordan. Crystal shares how her son’s autism diagnosis ignited her passion for advocacy, inclusion, and employment opportunities for neurodiverse individuals. She discusses her journey navigating the IEP process, the importance of workforce i…

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Planning for Two Lifetimes: Securing Your Child’s Future with Michael Ringel - Episode 77 33:59

3M ago33:59

33:59

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes financial expert Michael Ringel to discuss essential financial planning for families of children with disabilities. They explore the importance of planning for two lifetimes, strategies to protect government benefits, and the role of special needs trusts and ABLE accounts. Michael em…

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Building Bridges, Not Barriers: The Power of Social Connection with Wendy Hooton - Episode 76 37:11

3M ago37:11

37:11

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron welcomes Wendy Hooton, an author and advocate for Down syndrome inclusion. Wendy shares her journey of raising her son with Down Syndrome, highlighting the evolving meaning of inclusion throughout his life. She discusses her book, Big People Don’t Pee in the Park, which blends humor and heart…

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Beyond Sight: Inclusion, Tech, and Music with Curtis Jackson - Episode 75 22:28

3M ago22:28

22:28

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron speaks with Curtis "Curveball" Jackson, a blind entrepreneur, hip-hop artist, and podcast host. Curtis shares his journey growing up blind, navigating public school, and breaking societal expectations. He discusses his ventures in music, cybersecurity, and vending, emphasizing resilience and …

1
NERD_0355 Young Children’s Learning in Physics 1:01:52

3M ago1:01:52

1:01:52

Physics learning for children under 5? What? Join hostHeather Bernt-Santy, Mike Huber and Krystina Tapia as they discuss one of thebest articles Heather has read in a long time—“Young Children’s Learning in Physics:A (Dis-)Trustful Play with Gravity, Friction and Counterforces?” by Sofie Areljun,Lena Backstrom, and Evelina Grenemark. Seriously, it’…

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Aaron DeVries Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen