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 Guests

• Keith Jones
• Jenna Rufo
• Mark Crenshaw
• Diana Pastora Carson
• Andrew McEntrye

Complete 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/