The Inclusion Podcast

What if a student's "no" isn't defiance, but rather, valuable communication? In this episode, Julie and Kristie explore why honoring a student's refusal doesn't mean lowering expectations. Instead, they discuss how understanding the message behind "no" can increase trust, preserve autonomy, and create the neurological safety students need to participate and learn. Download the free resource: Respect the No: A Practical Guide for Educators at inclusiveschooling.com/download80.

When educators say, "Kids need consequences," what do they really mean? In this episode, Kristie and Julie challenge the common belief that consequences should make students suffer and instead explore how natural and logical consequences can build responsibility, empathy, communication, and problem-solving. You'll learn how to shift from punishment to teaching while still holding students accountable. Download the free resource: Natural & Logical Consequences Decision Guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download79.

What if professional learning didn’t have to mean another long meeting or another slide deck? In this episode, Julie and Kristie share how schools are transforming 15-minute podcast episodes into meaningful professional learning that sparks reflection, conversation, and real changes in practice. You’ll discover a simple framework for using podcasts in PLCs, staff meetings, and leadership teams to create learning that educators actually look forward to. Download the free resource: Podcast-Powered Professional Learning Guide at inclusiveschooling.com/download78.

What if the key to changing behavior isn’t tracking what’s going wrong, but noticing what’s going right? In this episode, Kristie and Julie introduce the “success minutes” framework, a simple but powerful shift that helps teams focus on moments of engagement, regulation, and connection. You’ll learn how to spot small wins, uncover patterns, and use them to create more success throughout the day. Download the free resource: The Success Minutes Quick Tracker at inclusiveschooling.com/download77.

“They’re too distractible” is often used as a quick justification for pull-out, but what if it’s pointing to something else entirely? In this episode, Kristie and Julie unpack why distractibility is not a placement decision and how it often signals a need for better supports, not removal. You’ll learn what to say in the moment and how to redesign instruction, environment, and engagement so students can succeed right where they are. Download the free resource: What to Say When Distractibility Is Used as a Reason for Pull-Out at inclusiveschooling.com/download76.