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

Aaron DeVries

Welcome to The Inclusive Dad Podcast, where we explore all things inclusion and make it practical!! 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

  1. 195 - From Caregiving to Life Care: A New Vision for Disability Support with Amy Shannon

    6H AGO

    195 - From Caregiving to Life Care: A New Vision for Disability Support with Amy Shannon

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Amy Shannon, who shares her lived experience as a quadriplegic navigating life, inclusion, and caregiving. Amy opens up about becoming disabled at 13 and the emotional and practical challenges that followed—from school and friendships to independence and identity. She introduces her powerful concept of “life care,” a reimagining of caregiving that centers autonomy, dignity, and true partnership. Together, they explore gaps in current systems, the realities families face, and how inclusion requires more than intention—it demands listening, adaptability, and systemic change to truly empower people with disabilities. Key Takeaways: Redefining Care – Caregiving should be a partnership where the person receiving care leads decisions, not just receives help. Life Care Vision – “Life care” reframes support as enabling full living, not just meeting medical needs. Inclusion Gaps – Even well-meaning systems often fall short of true inclusion and belonging. System Barriers – Policies and pay structures make consistent, quality caregiving difficult to sustain. Curiosity Matters – Inclusion starts with asking, listening, and adapting to individual needs. Amy Shannon’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion means being able to participate in every part of my life and having the ability to decide whether those spaces truly include me. Amy Shannon’s Bio: I am a designer by skill, passion and experience. I have always loved color, fashion and interior design. In order to keep on top of trends, I do online research, read blogs, and shop. I also style my friends and family according to their own styles and preferences. I studied art history and took fine arts courses to help me understand the use of color and symmetry in design. These principles are universal for art, fashion, jewelry, etc.  My passion for design extends beyond the aesthetic. Designing beautiful interiors that also function for accessibility is essential in our country and culture. More people are living with disabilities and need special accommodations. I believe that it is possible to bring form and function together to make design universal for all people!  I want to debunk the myth that caregiving is healthcare. I don't know where this notion came from but it has been driving me nuts for many years. When the majority of people get dressed, they do not consider it healthcare. Showering, washing your face, and brushing teeth is hygiene. Putting on make up and fixing your hair is beauty. Putting on clothes is fashion and style. It is professionalism when you work. It is many different things at different times but putting on pants is never healthcare. Healthcare is a part of everyone's life. There are things that people need to help me with that are healthcare like dressing a sore or changing a catheter. I've had many people learn to do healthcare tasks that are not healthcare professionals. I think that caregiving is lifecare and it should stop being tied to insurance, hospitals, nursing homes, etc. I propose a whole new job that incorporates everything that people need to do in caregiving and the related training and skills that go with it. Beauty, cooking, OT and PT, nursing, etc. Connect with Amy Shannon: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amybelovedturquoise/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-shannon-4158972b/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 85 No - 108 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    30 min
  2. 194 - From Bias to Belonging: Building a More Inclusive World with Daniel Hodges

    APR 21

    194 - From Bias to Belonging: Building a More Inclusive World with Daniel Hodges

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Daniel Hodges, a blind attorney, nonprofit leader, and father, to explore what true inclusion really means. Daniel shares his journey navigating education, parenthood, and systemic bias while living with blindness and chronic pain. Together, they unpack how society often creates more barriers than disabilities themselves and why curiosity—not skepticism—is key to meaningful inclusion. Daniel also opens up about a deeply personal experience with medical bias and CPS involvement, revealing the urgent need for better training and awareness. This conversation challenges assumptions and equips listeners to create more inclusive, human-centered environments. Key Takeaways: Authentic Presence – Inclusion means being able to show up as your true self without pressure to conform or perform. Systemic Barriers – Most challenges of disability come from societal structures, not the disability itself. Adaptive Strengths – Focusing on strengths instead of limitations unlocks real potential and independence. Curiosity Over Judgment – Asking respectful questions fosters understanding, while assumptions create harm. Purposeful Perspective – Choosing purpose over pain can transform personal struggles into impact for others. Daniel Hodge’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is being able to just be ourselves without the pressure to conform or to perform. Daniel Hodge’s Bio: Daniel Hodges, JD, MHA, is a thought leader on accessibility and authentic inclusion of people with disabilities. Daniel is the President and Cofounder of Peaces of Me Foundation, which is a nonprofit that he started while he was in law school. The Mission of Peaces of Me Foundation is to transform society through community education, innovative professional training, and connections to relevant resources that break the stigma surrounding disabilities of all kinds. As an individual who lives with multiple disabilities himself, he understands first-hand how vital this work is. Daniel Received his Juras Doctorate from The University of Baltimore, and his Master's in Healthcare Administration from Western Governors' University. Connect with Daniel Hodge: Website: https://www.peacesofme.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-hodges-jd/ Substack: https://danielhodgesjdmha.substack.com/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 85 No - 107 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    38 min
  3. 193 - Breaking the School-to-Prison Pipeline Through Inclusion with Alessia Perretti

    APR 17

    193 - Breaking the School-to-Prison Pipeline Through Inclusion with Alessia Perretti

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Alessia Perretti, a system change youth advocate working at the intersection of disability and juvenile justice. Alessia shares powerful insights on how overlooked disabilities contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline and why inclusion must consider intersecting identities. She discusses gaps in reentry systems, the importance of collaboration across sectors, and the need to challenge “us vs. them” thinking. Through real-world experience, Alessia highlights how kindness, communication, and understanding behavior as communication can transform systems and lives, especially for youth navigating trauma, disability, and reintegration into society. Key Takeaways: Intersection Matters – Inclusion must consider overlapping identities like disability, race, and incarceration. Hidden Disabilities – Many youth go undiagnosed, leading to mislabeling as defiant rather than supported. System Gaps – Lack of communication between systems causes people to fall through the cracks. Behavior Signals – Challenging behavior is often a form of communication, not defiance. Kindness First – Compassion and understanding are foundational to true inclusion. Alessia Perretti’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is a space that not only recognizes disability, but also recognizes all the variables that intersect with it and all the identities that intersect with it. Alessia Perretti’s Bio: Alessia Perretti is a Systems Change Youth Advocate empowering youth with disabilities, especially those impacted by the justice system. She works to break down barriers and create equitable opportunities, blending research, policy, and advocacy to ensure every young person has the support they need to thrive. Connect with Alessia Perretti: Website: https://www.alessiaperretti.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alessiaperretti/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aperretti_/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: Yes Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 85 No - 106 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    35 min
  4. 192 - Where Inclusion Meets the Justice of Jesus with Fr. Joash Thomas

    APR 14

    192 - Where Inclusion Meets the Justice of Jesus with Fr. Joash Thomas

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Fr. Joash Thomas to explore a deeper, justice-centered understanding of inclusion rooted in the life and teachings of Jesus. Together, they unpack how empire-shaped Christianity has distorted the gospel, replacing unity with division and exclusion. Fr. Joash challenges listeners to rethink inclusion by learning from marginalized voices and embracing a faith that unites to heal rather than divide to conquer. This powerful conversation also dives into loving your enemies, confronting bias, and reimagining a more compassionate and connected world through everyday actions and authentic relationships. Key Takeaways: Redefining Inclusion – True inclusion starts by asking excluded people what they actually need, not assuming it for them. Empire vs. Jesus – Systems of power divide to control, but the way of Jesus brings people together to heal. Love Your Enemy – Loving enemies begins with seeing them as human and worthy of compassion, even when it’s difficult. Theology Matters – What we believe about God shapes how we treat people, especially those on the margins. Learn First – Inclusion grows when we listen, learn, and honor the agency of those often overlooked. Fr. Joash Thomas’ definition of inclusion: Inclusion is when the Spirit of God breaks down the man-made walls that we put to keep people out from experiencing the grace of God. Fr. Joash Thomas’ Bio: Father Joash is a Priest, Public Theologian & Bestselling Author Drawing from his St. Thomas Christian roots and a Jesus-centered & Empire-informed understanding of Scripture, Fr. Joash helps audiences reimagine a faith that unites rather than divides—and that stands firmly with neighbors on the margins. Through speaking engagements, teaching, and advocacy, he calls Christians to a more contemplative yet courageous activism, motivated by the grace-filled, non-violent way of Jesus. Born and raised in India, Fr. Joash served as a U.S. political consultant and lobbyist before pivoting to global human rights advocacy. Now based in the Toronto area, he holds a master’s degree in Political Management from The George Washington University and two master’s degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary in Christian Leadership and Theology. An ordained Priest in the Diocese of St. Anthony, he is the author of the #1 Amazon Canada Bestseller in Liberation Theology, The Justice of Jesus (published by Brazos Press / Baker Publishing).  Fr. Joash serves on the leadership team at St. Stephen’s University as Director of Fundraising & Advancement and Instructor in Public Theology, Peace & Justice. You can keep up with Fr. Joash's writing on his Substack, Masala Chai Theology. Connect with Fr. Joash Thomas: Website: https://www.joashpthomas.com/ Substack: https://joashpthomas.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joashpthomas/ Amazon: https://a.co/d/05hbu1ca SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: Yes Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 84 No - 106 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    40 min
  5. 191 - Deaf Culture & Real-World Inclusion: What You’re Missing with Maria Gallucci

    APR 10

    191 - Deaf Culture & Real-World Inclusion: What You’re Missing with Maria Gallucci

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Maria Gallucci, a child of deaf adults (CODA), author, and real estate agent, to share her powerful story of growing up between two worlds. Maria opens up about learning empathy, advocacy, and communication from an early age while navigating a world that often misunderstood her family. She discusses inclusion as creating space for authenticity, the importance of accessibility in everyday environments, and how small acts of kindness can change lives. This conversation highlights the unseen barriers many face and challenges listeners to think differently about connection, compassion, and what true inclusion really looks like. Key Takeaways: Empathy Early – Growing up in a deaf household builds deep empathy, advocacy, and emotional intelligence from a young age. Inclusion Defined – Inclusion means creating spaces where people feel safe to be their authentic selves. Hidden Barriers – Many accessibility challenges go unnoticed until you experience them firsthand. Small Efforts Matter – Simple actions like learning basic signs or showing effort can reduce isolation. Representation Counts – Feeling seen and understood can profoundly impact someone’s sense of belonging. Maria Gallucci’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is having compassion and empathy and seeing people for who they are and letting them be their authentic self. Maria Gallucci’s Bio: Maria Gallucci is a multi-award-winning real estate agent and proud CODA (Child of Deaf Adults). Growing up as one of six hearing children raised by Deaf parents, she learned ASL before English and helped her parents buy a home at just 12 years old. This experience shaped her passion for inclusive communication and helping those who are often overlooked. For over 30 years, Maria has supported homebuyers from all walks of life, with special focus on the Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and LGBTQ+ communities. She's the founder of Uptown Realty Group, Gallucci Homes, ASL @ Compass Affinity Group, and ASL Realty- a national platform connecting Deaf & Hard of Hearing clients with signing agents - and ranks in the top 1% of agents in Colorado and top 1.5% nationwide. Maria serves on boards for Rocky Mountain Deaf School, DOVE, and Colorado Association of the Deaf. Her motto "just try" reflects her belief that meaningful connection starts with one small step. Her debut book Raised in Silence is both a love letter to the Deaf & Hard of Hearing community and a guide for bridging communication gaps. Connect with Maria Gallucci: Website: https://galluccihomes.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-gallucci-18725b9/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TopASLRealtor?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galluccihomes Amazon: https://a.co/d/03dVOwy0 SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: Yes Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 84 No - 105 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    28 min
  6. 190 - From Awareness to Action in Disability Inclusion with Bill Volkmann

    APR 7

    190 - From Awareness to Action in Disability Inclusion with Bill Volkmann

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Bill Volkmann to explore what true inclusion looks like through lived experience. Bill shares his journey from being one of the first students with a developmental disability integrated into public school to launching a for-profit company focused on inclusion through media and advocacy. Together, they discuss breaking down stigma, the power of education, and why simple human connection matters most. Bill offers practical insights on overcoming adversity, staying positive, and building comfort through conversation—reminding us that inclusion starts with understanding, openness, and the willingness to treat everyone as equals. Key Takeaways: Power of Exposure – When people interact with disabilities regularly, fear and discomfort begin to fade. Education Matters – Teaching disability awareness early can create a more inclusive and accepting society. Start Conversations – Inclusion begins with simple, genuine interactions and shared interests. Flexible Thinking – Adapting your approach in challenging situations can lead to better outcomes. Normalize Inclusion – People with disabilities want the same opportunities to contribute, connect, and belong. Bill Volkmann’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is being able to do what you want to do with no barriers in place to discourage you from making it harder to do something. Bill Volkmann’s Bio: Bill Volkmann is the founder of Empower Your Courage. It is a social media and technology company aiming to achieve full inclusion for people with disabilities and also bridging the gap between technology companies and the disability community. Bill was the first student with an intellectual or developmental disability to attend New Jersey public schools after the ADA was law. Bill has cerebral palsy; his parents instilled in him that even though he has a disability, he was no different from anybody else. Growing up, Bill played and watched baseball. It gave him a connection to his classmates who didn't have a disability. It was a way they could see who he truly was. Bill is publishing a book in the upcoming year about his incredible life story. Connect with Bill Volkmann: Website: https://www.empoweryourcourage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/william_volkmann/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 83 No - 105 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    31 min
  7. 189 - Inclusion in Action: How Community Changes Lives with Rosemary & Patricia

    MAR 31

    189 - Inclusion in Action: How Community Changes Lives with Rosemary & Patricia

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Rosemary and Patricia, co-founders of the Highland Friendship Club, to share how a simple need turned into a life-changing community. What began as a small walking group grew into a thriving organization that provides meaningful social opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. They discuss the power of connection, the importance of belonging, and how inclusion goes beyond programs—it’s about relationships and community presence. This conversation highlights what’s possible when people stop waiting for systems to change and instead take action to create spaces where everyone is valued. Key Takeaways: Belonging Matters - Inclusion is about feeling safe, wanted, and truly part of something, not just being present. Take Action - Real change often starts when people stop waiting and choose to create solutions themselves. Community Power - Strong relationships and local connections can turn small ideas into lasting impact. Inclusion Beyond Programs - True inclusion happens in everyday community spaces, not just designated environments. Ask and Engage - Sometimes inclusion starts with simply asking how someone can be included and taking that first step. Rosemary’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is being able to be part of the whole fabric of our community. Patricia’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion is feeling safe, wanted and belonging to something. Rosemary’s Bio: Rosemary Fagrelius is a devoted mother of three grown sons, a proud grandmother of three, and wife to Stuart Fagrelius. Her journey as an advocate began when her oldest son, John, survived an extreme case of spinal meningitis at just 13 months old, leaving him with significant cognitive and physical disabilities. Since that time, Rosemary has been deeply committed to ensuring inclusion for John in every aspect of life in St. Paul. Alongside her close friend Pat Leseman—also a mother of a son with disabilities—she co-founded the Highland Friendship Club over 23 years ago. Today, the Highland Friendship Club provides teens and adults with disabilities a welcoming place to build friendships, develop new skills, and stay actively connected to their community. The organization offers a wide range of programs, including fitness, art, music, walking clubs, and numerous weekly activities designed to enrich lives and foster belonging. Patricia’s Bio: Co-Founder of Highland Friendship Club - celebrating our 24th anniversary! My husband, Don, and I have 4 beautiful children ranging in ages 36 to 43!  Our seconded oldest Michael has Fragile X.  In 2002, loaded with determination, desperation and fire in our bellies, my good friend and fellow co-founder launched HFC.  On the flip side of life I was as a Contracting Officer for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development from 1980 to 2012! Connect with Rosemary & Patricia: Website: https://www.highlandfriendshipclub.org/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 83 No - 104 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    37 min
  8. 188 - Dating Safely with Disabilities: Why Support Matters with Katherine Gyolai

    MAR 24

    188 - Dating Safely with Disabilities: Why Support Matters with Katherine Gyolai

    In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron sits down with Katherine Gyolai, founder of Find Love Safely, to explore the often-overlooked topic of dating and relationships for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Katherine shares her deeply personal journey that led to creating a safer, more supportive matchmaking service after her own family experienced online harm. Together, they discuss the importance of balancing independence with protection, redefining inclusion as access with support, and why conversations around relationships, consent, and connection are critical. This episode challenges assumptions and offers practical ways to create safer, more inclusive opportunities for meaningful human connection. Key Takeaways: Access with support – Inclusion isn’t just access; it requires safeguards that protect while honoring autonomy. Dating risks real – People with disabilities are especially vulnerable to online scams and exploitation. Conversations matter – Avoiding discussions about relationships creates dangerous gaps in understanding. Redefining success – Success can be growth in confidence, not just long-term relationships. Ask and believe – True inclusion starts by asking what support someone wants and honoring it. Katherine Gyolai’s definition of inclusion: Inclusion means honoring autonomy while also providing structure, guidance and protection. Katherine Gyolai’s Bio: Katherine is a mom and stepmom to 8 wonderful adult children — 4 of whom have intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Her children, just like you, want to find a special someone to share their lives with. But as their parent and guardian, Katherine knows that online dating and apps are not a safe choice for them. Inspired by Netflix's Love on the Spectrum and Down for Love, Katherine founded this matchmaking service because she believes the best way to meet someone special is to be matched by a real human who cares deeply about people just like you. In her spare time, Katherine is an ICF-certified individual and team coach, and a marketing consultant. She is also on a mission to make the system work better for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Connect with Katherine Gyolai: Website: https://www.findlovesafely.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FindLoveSafely LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/find-love-safely/posts/?feedView=all Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findlovesafely Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findlovesafely/ SPAM© Count: Host: Yes Current Guest: No Cumulative Guest Stats: Yes - 83 No - 103 ☕ Buy me a Coffee: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/theinclusivedad⁠ Subscribe to Podcast Newsletter: ⁠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

    37 min
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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Inclusive Dad Podcast, where we explore all things inclusion and make it practical!! 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

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