Inclusion and Disability Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad

213 - The World Doesn't Need More Labels—It Needs More Inclusion with Antar Salim

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Antar Salim, a father, educator, and advocate whose youngest daughter has Down syndrome. Antar shares the emotional journey of receiving a prenatal diagnosis, the faith and family conversations that shaped their decision, and how his daughter has transformed his understanding of patience, purpose, and inclusion. Together, they explore why every person deserves the opportunity to flourish, the importance of recognizing individual strengths over perceived limitations, and how authentic relationships can grow through shared experiences. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder that every life has value and every person has something meaningful to contribute.   Key Takeaways: Every Life - Every person has inherent value, and inclusion begins by recognizing that every life is a gift. Find Superpowers - Focus on people's strengths and unique abilities instead of their limitations. Shared Journeys - Parents and caregivers grow stronger through honest conversations and supportive communities. Purposeful Parenting - Helping children flourish into the best version of themselves is one of a parent's greatest responsibilities. Inclusive Mindset - True inclusion means embracing different ways of navigating the world rather than expecting everyone to fit one standard. Antar Salim’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is creating a place where everyone is valued, accepted, and given the chance to contribute and thrive while being able to show up as their true selves. Antar Salim’s Bio: Antar Salim is a college educator, father of three, and passionate advocate for inclusion. Inspired by his youngest daughter with Down syndrome, he encourages others to recognize every person's unique strengths and create communities where everyone has the opportunity to flourish. Connect with Antar Salim: Email: fromengtophd@yahoo.com [fromengtophd@yahoo.com] SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 93 No - 118 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad] Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdateshttps://www.theinclusivedadpodcast.com/newsletter/ [https://www.theinclusivedadpodcast.com/newsletter/] Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad]

212 - Systemic Ableism Is Everywhere—Now What? with Jennifer Chassman Browne

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes disability advocate, educator, and speaker Jennifer Chassman Browne for a powerful conversation about moving beyond accessibility and embracing true belonging. Jennifer shares how living with visible arthritis transformed the way others treated her, why good intentions can still exclude people, and how simple shifts in mindset create meaningful inclusion. Together they explore disability etiquette, systemic ableism, accessible design, and the importance of seeing the whole person—not just their disability. This episode will challenge assumptions, spark self-reflection, and inspire listeners to create spaces where everyone genuinely belongs. Key Takeaways: Belonging Matters - Accessibility is important, but true inclusion happens when people feel they genuinely belong. Ask First - Instead of making assumptions, respectfully ask people what they need and listen to their answers. Challenge Assumptions - Visible disabilities should never define someone's identity or determine how others interact with them. Design Intentionally - Thoughtful planning creates environments where everyone has meaningful choices and equal participation. See Whole People - Recognize disability as one part of a person's identity while appreciating their full humanity. Jennifer Chassman Browne’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is creating spaces and experiences for everyone where people, regardless of their disability, their identity, their needs, feel welcome and able to participate. Jennifer Chassman Browne’s Bio: Jenn has lived with Rheumatoid Arthritis since she was six years old.  For most of her professional life, she has been an English teacher and school leader, and has loved the time that she spent with the teenagers that she taught, many of whom she still has in her life. In her work as a DEI and Disability Advocate, Jenn educates people about the strengths and gifts that people with disabilities have.  She also helps people to understand that those living with disabilities need allies, systems, and structures that ensure their access and inclusion. Jenn has also earned certification as a listener poet and is invested in using poetry and storytelling to help build connections between people and to aid in the development of empathy, understanding, and belonging. Jenn is a keynote speaker and writer. She has also written a book, See US, Know Us; Profiles of Disability which is available for pre-order and will be out in October 2026. Connect with Jennifer Chassman Browne: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferChassmanBrowneAuthor [https://www.facebook.com/JenniferChassmanBrowneAuthor] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-chassman-browne-97768b24a/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-chassman-browne-97768b24a/] Website: https://jenniferchassmanbrowne.com/ [https://jenniferchassmanbrowne.com/] Website: https://newground.us/index.html [https://newground.us/index.html] SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 93 No - 117 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad] Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates⁠ [https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates] Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad]

211 - Can a Blind Person Hike, Fish, and Fix a House? Absolutely. with Jeff Skoglund

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Jeff Skoglund, also known as the Blind Outdoorsman, for an honest conversation about life with progressive vision loss, resilience, and practical inclusion. Jeff shares how he adapted after becoming legally blind, how his guide dog helps him navigate everyday life, and why accessibility benefits everyone. From home maintenance and technology to a recent heart attack that highlighted the importance of respectful communication in healthcare, Jeff offers practical insights that challenge assumptions about blindness. This episode reminds us that disability doesn't define potential—it simply changes how we approach life.  Key Takeaways: Challenge Assumptions - Blindness doesn't mean inability—people with vision loss continue living full, independent, and meaningful lives. Accessible Design - Planning for accessibility from the beginning creates better experiences for everyone, not just people with disabilities. Respectful Communication - Asking someone what support they need is one of the simplest and most powerful acts of inclusion. Adaptive Technology - Tools, labels, guide dogs, and accessible technology empower independence in everyday life. Share Your Story - Your experiences may encourage, educate, or inspire someone who needs to hear them today. Jeff Skoglund’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is making sure everyone has an equal opportunity to live their best life without being judged or treated differently for who they are. Jeff Skoglund’s Bio: Jeff Skoglund, known online as BlindOutdoorsman, is a Minnesota-based creator and storyteller who shares life outdoors through his experience with vision loss, humor, resilience, and lived experience. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, Jeff uses his platform to share real-life accessibility, adaptation, guide dog life with Natty, and outdoor adventures with his wife, Shauna. Through BlindOutdoorsman, Jeff hopes to help people think about vision loss a little differently while showing that life, adventure, and connection do not stop when vision changes. Jeff recently created a Facebook group called Blind & Low Vision Outdoors Minnesota. It’s a community for blind and low-vision people in Minnesota, along with allies, who are interested in getting outdoors through activities like hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, snowshoeing, and other outdoor adventures. Connect with Jeff Skoglund: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574843205853 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574843205853] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blindoutdoorsman/ [https://www.instagram.com/blindoutdoorsman/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Blindoutdoorsman [https://www.youtube.com/@Blindoutdoorsman] TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@blindoutdoorsman [https://www.tiktok.com/@blindoutdoorsman] Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1740518473965596/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1740518473965596/] SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: Yes Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 93 No - 116 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad] Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates⁠ [https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates] Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad]

210 - STOP Making These Special Needs Planning Mistakes! with Mary McDirmid

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes financial planner and parent advocate Mary McDirmid for a practical conversation about preparing for the future of loved ones with disabilities. Drawing from her personal journey raising her daughter with a rare disease, Mary explains special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, and common planning mistakes that can jeopardize essential benefits. Beyond finances, the discussion explores curiosity, respectful conversations, and why inclusion begins with assuming positive intent. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this episode offers actionable guidance to protect your loved one's future while creating a more inclusive and understanding world.  Key Takeaways: Future Planning - Planning early helps families protect benefits, provide long-term care, and reduce uncertainty for loved ones with disabilities. Avoid Costly Mistakes - Simple oversights, like incorrect life insurance beneficiaries, can unintentionally jeopardize disability benefits. Respect Differences - Inclusion grows when we acknowledge our differences, assume positive intent, and remain curious about others' perspectives. Sibling Support - Thoughtful financial planning helps siblings remain siblings instead of carrying unnecessary financial and legal burdens. Accessible Knowledge - Every family deserves access to special needs planning information, regardless of their financial situation. Mary McDirmid’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is acknowledging the tension between our similarities and differences and working through it together. Mary McDirmid’s Bio: When Mary isn’t helping families navigate the world of special needs financial planning, she is being a wife to Jay and a mom to Charlie and Ruth. In addition to her leadership role at All Needs Planning and a volunteer advocate for kids with rare diseases. She takes the title “Mom Boss’ seriously, just ask her! Mary understands the emotional and financial aspects of caring for a loved one with special needs because she is the parent of a child with a rare disease.  Connect with Mary McDirmid: Website: https://allneedsplanning.com/ [https://allneedsplanning.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AllNeedsPlanning/ [https://www.facebook.com/AllNeedsPlanning/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allneedsplanning/ [https://www.instagram.com/allneedsplanning/] YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AllNeedsPlanning [https://www.youtube.com/@AllNeedsPlanning] TedX: https://youtu.be/_k6fXNWAHPM?si=pjbUwc_86uQZb6dm [https://youtu.be/_k6fXNWAHPM?si=pjbUwc_86uQZb6dm] Buy her book: https://a.co/d/0dsKxDc6 [https://a.co/d/0dsKxDc6] SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 92 No - 116 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad] Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates⁠ [https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates] Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad]

209 - The Power of a Mindset Shift: How MS Changed Everything with Dr. Patti Bevilacqua

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Dr. Patti Bevilacqua, educator, author, TEDx speaker, and longtime advocate living with multiple sclerosis. Patti shares how her diagnosis reshaped her identity, taught her the power of mindset shifts, and deepened her understanding of inclusion. Together, they explore invisible disabilities, the importance of curiosity over assumptions, and why asking “How can I help?” matters more than taking control. Patti offers practical wisdom on self-advocacy, resilience, kindness, and finding opportunity in life's detours. This conversation is a powerful reminder that everyone carries unseen challenges and deserves to belong. Key Takeaways: Invisible Backpacks - Everyone carries unseen struggles, and approaching others with curiosity instead of assumptions creates deeper understanding. Ask, Don’t Assume - True inclusion begins by asking people what they need rather than deciding for them. Mindset Shifts - Reframing challenges as opportunities can transform how we experience disability and adversity. Redefining Movement - Movement is not only physical; we can move hearts, minds, ideas, and communities. Grace Over Judgment - Being kind to ourselves and others creates space for belonging, dignity, and connection. Dr. Patti Bevilacqua’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is about creating a place where we all get a human experience, where we all get to experience humanity. Dr. Patti Bevilacqua’s Bio: I’m Dr. Patti Bevilacqua—bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and the driving force behind fearLESS with MS. and The Hidden Illness Advocate. In 1989, I stepped into my dream role as a high school PE teacher, passionate about shaping young lives. But just a year later, everything changed. A multiple sclerosis diagnosis forced me to leave the career I loved after only ten years. For over a decade, I felt lost, searching for purpose in a life I never planned. But here’s what I learned: “When life throws challenge your way, you have two choices—let them define you or rise above them. I chose to rise. With resilience, humor, and an unwavering spirit, I transformed my setbacks into stepping stones. I became a speaker, workshop leader, and storyteller, turning my journey into a source of strength for others.” Armed with a Ph.D., I launched MS stands for Mindset Shift and the fearLESS with MS. newsletter, creating a thriving community for those battling hidden illnesses. My story has been shared across 20+ podcasts, including The Hero Within, Chronically Living, and dissolving fear. Now, I dedicate my life to advocating for those with invisible illnesses, helping them shift their mindset, overcome fear, and embrace their inner strength. Because while MS may have changed my path, it never defined my purpose. Connect with Dr. Patti Bevilacqua: Website: https://patti-bevilacqua.com/ [https://patti-bevilacqua.com/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patti-bevilacqua/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/patti-bevilacqua/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fearlesswithms/ [https://www.facebook.com/fearlesswithms/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearlesswithms/ [https://www.instagram.com/fearlesswithms/] Substack: https://pattibevilacqua.substack.com/ [https://pattibevilacqua.substack.com/] SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: Yes Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 92 No - 115 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad] Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates⁠ [https://www.theinclusivedad.com/podcastupdates] Want to be a guest on Inclusion and Advocacy from a Parent's Perspective: The Inclusive Dad? Send Aaron DeVries a message on PodMatch, here: ⁠https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad⁠ [https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/theinclusivedad]