Best Unlearning Ableism Podcasts (2025)

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Social Skills, Dating, and Disability Support with Rachel Greenberg 52:59

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1d ago52:59

52:59

In this conversation, Rachel Greenberg of Life Unlimited: Unleash Your Potential, LLC. shares her journey of working with individuals with disabilities, focusing on social skills and dating coaching. She discusses the importance of building trust with her clients, the challenges they face in social interactions, and the strategies she employs to he…

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Interview with Dr. Giuliana Conti – Classroom Harmony: Music, Mindset, and Modern Teaching Challenges 1:10:21

10d ago1:10:21

1:10:21

In this conversation, Giuliana Conti and Mark discuss the complexities of classroom management, the role of music in education, and the challenges teachers face in today's educational climate. They explore how emotional and social factors impact student learning and behavior, emphasizing the need for innovative teaching strategies that prioritize s…

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Gun Violence Prevention: Interview with Janet Goldstein; MOMS DEMAND ACTION 51:16

17d ago51:16

51:16

keywords gun violence, advocacy, Moms Demand Action, gun control, mental health, community engagement, legislation, Second Amendment, education, safety takeaways Gun violence is a pressing issue that affects communities nationwide. Advocacy efforts are crucial in addressing gun violence and promoting responsible gun ownership. Community engagement …

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When Growth Looks Different : Progress Beyond Standard Testing 11:18

23d ago11:18

11:18

“Progress isn’t always a straight line, and sometimes it doesn’t look anything like what the school charts say. But that doesn’t mean it’s not real. If you’ve ever been told your child is ‘behind,’ or felt crushed sitting in an IEP meeting while graphs told a story that didn’t match your kid—this episode is for you.” In this episode of Special Ed R…

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From Paid to Forgotten: A Parent Caregiver Crisis 12:59

1M ago12:59

12:59

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many states allowed parents of children with significant disabilities to be paid caregivers under Medicaid—offering dignity, recognition, and financial support for the work they were already doing. But now, as emergency waivers expire, those programs are vanishing. Quietly. Quickly. And families are once again being le…

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Labels Are for Jars: Unlearning Ableism and Embracing Human Difference 20:11

2M ago20:11

20:11

In this compelling and heartfelt episode, Mark explores the deep-rooted issue of ableism and how the labels we place on individuals—particularly those with disabilities—often do more harm than good. With personal stories, powerful analogies, and critical insights, he challenges the idea that difference equals deficiency. You’ll hear about: The cult…

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Frank Lobb: Healthcare Uncovered: Insurance, Rights, and the Fight for Control" 51:55

2M ago51:55

51:55

In this conversation, Frank Lobb shares his extensive background in law and healthcare, discussing his personal experiences with the healthcare system and the challenges he faced. He emphasizes the importance of understanding insurance contracts and patient rights, advocating for individuals to take control of their healthcare decisions. Frank also…

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The Truth About "one big beautiful bill" (OBBBA) and Disabled Americans 20:48

2M ago20:48

20:48

🔊 Episode Summary: On July 4th, 2025, Donald Trump signed what he calls the “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBBA) into law. While it’s being touted as a historic win, the truth beneath the headlines reveals a devastating reality—especially for disabled individuals, caregivers, and working-class families. This episode breaks down what’s actually in the b…

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Breaking the Cycle: Lauren Henry Brehm on Generational Mental Health and Healing 1:02:34

2M ago1:02:34

1:02:34

*My apologies to any early listeners of this episode for the editing mishap regarding music playing over the first several minutes of the interview. It's fixed! In this conversation, Mark and Lauren Henry Brehm delve into the complexities of mental illness, particularly how it affects families across generations. Lauren shares her personal experien…

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Recasting the Industry: Albert Bramante on Inclusion, Identity, and the Actor’s Journey 50:36

3M ago50:36

50:36

In this conversation, Albert discusses his unique journey from aspiring psychologist to talent agent, emphasizing the importance of mental health in the acting industry. He explores the challenges actors face, including self-sabotage and the need for diversity in casting. Albert shares strategies for actors to manage their mindset, the role of AI i…

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Behind Closed Doors: The Quiet Dismantling of Disability Rights 14:46

3M ago14:46

14:46

🎙️ Special Ed Rising: Purge 47 Edition While families are focused on graduations, IEP meetings, and summer prep, a dangerous regulatory rollback is quietly unfolding. The Department of Energy (DOE), under the Trump administration, has issued a direct final rule—a shortcut usually reserved for noncontroversial housekeeping—to eliminate accessibility…

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Medicaid Cuts & the Disability Community: The Fight Against the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” 8:18

3M ago8:18

8:18

🎧 Show Notes – Special Ed Rising; Purge 47 Edition Host: Mark Ingrassia Welcome to Special Ed Rising: Purge 47 Edition, where we take off the gloves and shine a light on the policies, politics, and people shaping the future of disability rights. In today’s episode, Mark exposes the high-stakes crisis quietly unfolding in Congress — the passage of t…

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Special Ed Rising Special Announcement 2:19

3M ago2:19

2:19

Title: One Feed. Two Voices. The Next Chapter of Special Ed Rising In this special announcement episode, Mark Ingrassia shares exciting news: SER: No Parent Left Behind! and Purge 47 are officially joining forces under one powerful banner—Special Ed Rising. Here's what to expect moving forward: ✅ Weekly episodes of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left…

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Mindful Parenting: Presence Over Perfection 15:30

3M ago15:30

15:30

In this heartfelt and honest episode of SER: No Parent Left Behind, I reflects on his early days as a special education teacher—and how my “green” beginnings hold powerful lessons for parents raising children with exceptional needs. Drawing from personal experience and decades of coaching, I introduce the core principles of mindful parenting: prese…

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Mindful Access 1:01:13

4M ago1:01:13

1:01:13

Join us as we talk all things accessibility, ableism, mental health and internalised ableism, as we welcome the absolutely incredible Dustin Giannelli. Dustin is the CEO and Founder of HearsDustin.com, a consultancy focused on creating more inclusive and accessible workplaces.By Unlearning Ableism

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From Stratotanker to Strength: Kijuan Amey’s Journey Through Adversity, Vision Loss, and Purpose 1:04:09

4M ago1:04:09

1:04:09

In this engaging conversation, Kijuan Amey shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in Durham, North Carolina, to becoming a highly motivated individual with a diverse range of interests and experiences. He discusses his passion for fitness, sports, and music, as well as his time in the military, particularly in the Air Force as a KC-135 St…

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A Sister's Devotion: Sarah Ingledue's Journey of Care, Love, and Advocacy 47:57

4M ago47:57

47:57

In this conversation, Sarah Ingledue shares her profound journey as a nurse and caregiver for her sister, Rachel, who has Cornelia de Lange syndrome. Sarah discusses her early passion for nursing, her unique relationship with Rachel, and the challenges and joys of caring for someone with special needs. The conversation delves into the importance of…

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Deaf President Now! — Then, Now, and What It Sparked 17:21

4M ago17:21

17:21

🎙️ Show Notes On May 16, 2025, a groundbreaking documentary titled "Deaf President Now!" will be released, chronicling the historic 1988 student-led protest at Gallaudet University—the world’s only liberal arts university for Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. But this episode is more than a retelling. It’s a personal reflection on what that moment…

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From the Classroom to the Capitol: My Journey with Moms Demand Action 15:35

4M ago15:35

15:35

In this heartfelt and urgent episode, I reflect on a long-standing goal I've held since the launch of this podcast: to speak with a gun violence prevention advocate about the devastating impact of mass shootings, particularly in schools. As a classroom teacher, this issue is deeply personal. The statistics are staggering—but behind them are real pe…

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"Redefining Beauty: Kristie Raymond on Inclusive Casting and Authentic Representation" 57:40

5M ago57:40

57:40

In this conversation, Kristie Raymond discusses her revolutionary approach to modeling and casting, focusing on inclusivity and representation for individuals with disabilities. She emphasizes the importance of building a talent pool of adaptive talent to ensure authentic representation in media. Kristie shares her journey in founding Humankind Cas…

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"Erica Settino: Unmasking Truths; Autism, Advocacy & the Power of Compassion" 1:02:01

5M ago1:02:01

1:02:01

In this conversation, Erica shares her journey as a late diagnosed autistic ADHD female and the insights gained from parenting her neurodivergent child. She discusses the emotional challenges faced due to societal norms and the importance of self-acceptance. The dialogue emphasizes the value of different perspectives, the significance of asking for…

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“Autism Is Not a Tragedy — Stigma Is: A Response to RFK Jr.” 9:38

5M ago9:38

9:38

🎙️ Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind Episode Summary: In this episode, we address the dangerous and deeply offensive comments made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his April 16, 2025 press conference, where he claimed autism is “preventable” and described individuals on the spectrum as incapable of working, dating, writing poetry, or living i…

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"For Brady and Beyond: Gaile Valcho’s Journey of Hope, Guardianship, and Community" 54:21

5M ago54:21

54:21

summary In this conversation, Gaile Valcho discusses the evolution of the Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day, highlighting the importance of community engagement, police involvement, and the establishment of a nonprofit organization to support families with autistic children. She shares insights on training first responders, the significance of fa…

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Fatherhood and Fragile X: David Tillman on Raising Miles and Embracing the Journey 57:32

6M ago57:32

57:32

Show Notes In this conversation, Mark interviews David Tillman, a dedicated father of a son with Fragile X syndrome. David shares his journey as a parent, the challenges and joys of raising Miles, and the importance of community support. They discuss the impact of Fragile X syndrome on Miles' life, the significance of music and arts in education, a…

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Managing finances and planning for the future, including special needs trusts 16:58

6M ago16:58

16:58

Podcast Show Notes: Impact of Policy Changes on Special Needs Families Episode Overview: Welcome to today’s episode where we explore the impact of policy changes on families of individuals with disabilities. With potential cuts to Medicaid and the Department of Education, many families worry about losing access to essential services. In this episod…

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Rewriting Ableism 1:01:25

6M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

Join us as we unwrite ableism with Author and Founder & CEO of Diversability, Tiffany A. Yu, MSc! Join us as we unlearn ableism, rewrite what it means to be anti-ableist and explore the incredible work of Tiffany!By Unlearning Ableism

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$800 Billion Cuts to Medicaid and Why It Matters to Disabled Individuals 13:05

6M ago13:05

13:05

This episode also appears on the Purge 47 podcast which is in its infancy with few followers. I feel this information is important and so I'm adding it to this podcast. Check out Purge 47 for continuing episodes related to disability politics. Podcast Show Notes: Understanding Medicaid & The Fight to Protect It Introduction Welcome to the show! Tod…

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ADHD as a Superpower – Unlocking Potential and Embracing Strengths 13:34

6M ago13:34

13:34

Episode Summary: Today, I'm flipping the script on ADHD. Instead of focusing solely on the challenges, I'm highlighting the strengths—the creativity, innovation, and unique ways of thinking that make kids with ADHD exceptional. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone with ADHD yourself, this episode will offer a fresh perspective on how to ha…

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"The Unseen Heroes: Understanding and Supporting Siblings of Individuals with Special Needs" 23:59

7M ago23:59

23:59

Podcast Show Notes Episode Sub Title: Siblings as Caregivers, Protectors, and Advocates Episode Summary: In this episode, I take a deep dive into the unique experiences of siblings of individuals with disabilities. Through my personal journey—growing up with a paraplegic uncle and later witnessing my mother’s struggles with OCD and anxiety—I explor…

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Swipe Left On Ableism 1:00:29

7M ago1:00:29

1:00:29

Join us as we swipe left on ableism for this Valentine's special. In this episode, host Jamie is joined by Victoria Jenkins, an adaptive fashion expert. Sadly, Celia was sick with COVID and wasn’t able to join. #SadFace Are you ready to unlearn ableism in fashion, relationships, dating and sex?By Unlearning Ableism

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Gaming for All: Josh Boykin on Storytelling, Inclusion and Accessibility 58:36

7M ago58:36

58:36

"Helping People Understand the World Through Games." -Josh Boykin In this conversation, Mark and Josh Boykin explore the intersection of gaming and accessibility, discussing how games can serve as tools for storytelling, empathy, and connection, particularly for children with special needs. They delve into the evolution of gaming narratives, the im…

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Defying Ableism 1:00:14

7M ago1:00:14

1:00:14

Season 2 of the Unlearning Ableism Podcast is off to a bang! Join us as we defy ableism! In this episode, hosts Celia and Jamie are joined by Mhairi Harris Tesco Media and Insight Platform and Rare Diseases Advocate. Are you ready to unlearn ableism?By Unlearning Ableism

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Interview with (UK) Blue Sky Autism Founder, Dr. Ruth Glynne-Owen 57:22

8M ago57:22

57:22

In this conversation, Dr. Ruth shares her extensive background in education, particularly focusing on autism and special needs. She discusses her journey from teaching in diverse environments to establishing Blue Sky, a charity aimed at providing early intervention services for children with autism. The conversation highlights the challenges faced …

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Interview with Alexandra Wosleger (Mother of 3) Discusses the WWOX GENE 58:35

8M ago58:35

58:35

summary In this conversation, Alex Wosleger shares her journey as a parent of two children with a rare genetic disorder, discussing the challenges, triumphs, and the importance of community support. She reflects on the diagnosis journey, the impact of diet and therapy, and the dynamics of parenting in the face of adversity. Alex emphasizes the beau…

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The Unlearning Ableism Podcast - Episode 6 1:37:58

8M ago1:37:58

1:37:58

Join us for our International Day Of Persons with Disabilities, extravaganza! Joining your hosts are Lu Castello (They/Them) and Nathan Chung (He/Him).By Unlearning Ableism

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The Unlearning Ableism Podcast - Episode 5 1:00:18

8M ago1:00:18

1:00:18

In this episode, we are joined by the fabulous Montreece Payton-Hardy Payton-Hard. Join us as we discuss ableism, recruitment, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, intersecting identities and the “I” in DEI.By Unlearning Ableism

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Interview with Parent Coach, Carinne Mossa; Founder of It Takes a Village 44:26

8M ago44:26

44:26

In this conversation, Carinne Mossa shares her personal journey into the world of special education and parenting a child with complex needs. She discusses the challenges faced by parents, the importance of self-care, and the need for community support. Carinne emphasizes the significance of understanding behavior as communication and the role of a…

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The Potential Future of Special Education Under the Trump Administration: What You Need to Know 25:32

8M ago25:32

25:32

Episode Summary: In this episode, I tackle the critical issues facing special education today and the potential ramifications of the Trump administration's proposed Project 2025, which includes plans to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education. This episode is essential listening for parents, educators, and advocates who want to stay informed abo…

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Talking Universal Design for Learning with Expert, Lori Cooney 49:32

9M ago49:32

49:32

In this conversation, Lori Cooney discusses Universal Design for Learning (UDL), a framework aimed at creating flexible learning environments that accommodate all students. She shares her personal journey in education, the importance of inclusive teaching practices, and how technology can enhance learning experiences. The discussion also covers the…

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Interview with Joan Accolla of Healing Headbands 46:30

9M ago46:30

46:30

In this conversation, Joan Accolla shares her journey from interior design to discovering the healing power of humor. She discusses how her background in design led her to explore holistic health and the integration of laughter as a therapeutic tool. The conversation delves into the science behind laughter, its effects on the brain, and how intenti…

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Interview with Jenifer Breaux; Traveling with Your Special Needs Child 55:56

9M ago55:56

55:56

Jenifer Breaux is a Luxury Travel Agent and mother of two special needs children. Six years ago she opened a franchise of Dream Vacations called JB Travel Pros. Included in her work is her focus on helping families of special needs children make wonderful memories through travel. She is the author of Travel IS Possible - How to Travel with Children…

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Bridging the Gap: Inclusive Communication; Non-disabled and Disabled People 19:37

10M ago19:37

19:37

This episode is influenced by my recent conversations with guests on my show; particularly my chat with Taylor Winnett. We spoke about bridging the gap of communication between non-disabled people as they interact with disabled people. How does the conversation begin for someone who is unfamiliar with or has never met a disabled person and therefor…

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“ACCESS” Filmmaker, Chris Higgins Interview 57:19

10M ago57:19

57:19

summary In this conversation, Chris Higgins shares his journey as a filmmaker and writer, emphasizing the importance of accessibility in technology and storytelling. He discusses his film 'Access,' which profiles Corey Joseph, a user of assistive technology, and highlights the need for empathy and understanding in creating inclusive designs. The co…

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Paralympian, Taylor Winnett Returns to Share Her Time in Paris and More 59:16

10M ago59:16

59:16

In this conversation, Taylor Winnett shares her reflections on competing in the Paralympics, and the emotional journey of balancing high expectations with the realities of performance. She discusses her future plans, including moving to Texas, aspirations for world championships, and the possibility of motherhood. Taylor also expresses her desire t…

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Music Education and the Special Needs Parent; Interview with Dr. Giuliana Conti 59:00

11M ago59:00

59:00

keywords music education, special education, parental involvement, inclusivity, advocacy, misconceptions, music therapy, child development, songwriting, creativity, parent-teacher relationships, music education, child development, emotional regulation, musical exploration, parenting tips, music in schools, child psychology, music therapy, family bo…

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Disability Inequality in Employment 20:36

11M ago20:36

20:36

In this episode I’m talking about a critical issue: inequality in employment for people with disabilities. Despite advancements in diversity and inclusion, millions of disabled individuals around the world still face enormous challenges when it comes to finding and maintaining employment. In today’s episode, I want to dive into why this problem per…

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AI and Special Ed; An Interview with Joan Green 49:05

11M ago49:05

49:05

keywords AI, special education, learning differences, assistive technology, skill development, equity in education, communication tools, educational technology, AI, special needs, education, Goblin Tools, executive functioning, note-taking apps, communication, technology, learning support, transition to adulthood summary This conversation explores …

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The Unlearning Ableism Podcast - Episode 4 1:00:00

11M ago1:00:00

1:00:00

Celia and Jamie are joined by the sensational Bailey Smith, Sustainability Manager and DEI Consultant. Join us as we explore internalised ableism, Disability & DEI, representation and so much more!By Unlearning Ableism

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Living with a Disability; An Interview with Kimberly Yuknis 57:01

11M ago57:01

57:01

keywords disability, advocacy, accessibility, inclusion, mental health, representation, family dynamics, self-advocacy, education, awareness summary In this conversation, Kimberly shares her personal journey living with a disability, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, accessibility, and the need for awareness and education. She discusses her f…

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Celebrating 100 Episodes 12:35

12M ago12:35

12:35

This episode is a huge milestone – it’s my 100th. Join me as I reflect on this adventure and talk about what's to come!By Mark Ingrassia