Inclusion School Podcast
A show designed for parents, educators, and caregivers on how to have tough conversations around inclusion with their children. Hosts are Simone Morris and Julie Kratz.
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S8 Episode 10 - Season 8 Wrap Up Real Talk
12/10/2023
S8 Episode 10 - Season 8 Wrap Up Real Talk
In this episode, hosts Julie Kratz and Simone Morris reflect on the end of season 8 and the rich conversations they've had with guests. They recap the topics covered this season, including equitable education, inclusivity at the playground, inclusive media, and blending family, faith, and inclusive leadership. They also share their plans for the hiatus, discussing rest, personal projects, and priorities. Additionally, they express their excitement to return for the spring of 2024. Listen to the full episode for a heartfelt discussion and insights into their future plans as they sign off for the season. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 9 - Blending Faith, Family, and Inclusive Leadership with Alana M. Hill
12/03/2023
S8 Episode 9 - Blending Faith, Family, and Inclusive Leadership with Alana M. Hill
In this week's episode of the Inclusion School podcast, hosts Julie Kratz and Simone Morris sit down with the inspiring Alana M. Hill. Alana, a passionate ministry leader, teacher, and author, shares her journey of raising a blended family and finding purpose in the face of life's challenges. Alana delves into the intersection of diversity, inclusion, and faith, emphasizing the importance of creating safe and nurturing environments for children facing various struggles. She provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and caregivers on how to foster inclusivity and support children dealing with sensitive topics like illness. Don't miss this episode where Alana Hill shares her wisdom on compassion, understanding, and the transformative potential of embracing diverse perspectives. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 8 - Practicing Inclusion During The Holidays - Real Talk
11/26/2023
S8 Episode 8 - Practicing Inclusion During The Holidays - Real Talk
In this week's episode, hosts Julie Kratz and Simone Morris tackle the topic of navigating difficult conversations during the holiday season. With Thanksgiving just behind us and the winter holidays fast approaching, it's essential to be mindful of inclusive language and respectful dialogue. Julie and Simone share their insights on setting boundaries, practicing curiosity, and knowing when it's necessary to disengage from triggering conversations. They also highlight the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the diversity of holidays that occur during this time, beyond just Christmas, including World AIDS Day, Hanukkah, Bodhi Day, and more. So if you're gearing up for family gatherings and want to navigate these conversations with grace and inclusivity, this episode is a must-listen. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 7 - Embracing Representation In Media with Maureen Lawton
11/19/2023
S8 Episode 7 - Embracing Representation In Media with Maureen Lawton
Welcome to this week's episode of the Inclusion School Podcast! Simone & Julie have an incredibly inspiring guest joining us today, Maureen Lawton. Maureen is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a special focus on the entertainment industry. With her organization, Dreamcatchers, Maureen is dedicated to creating people-first workplace experiences and fostering inclusive environments. In this episode, Maureen shares her personal journey, discusses the importance of representation and psychological safety in media, and provides insightful tips on how parents and caregivers can engage with children's entertainment to create teachable moments. Get ready to be inspired and empowered as Simone & Julie dive into this important conversation with Maureen Lawton on the Inclusion School Podcast. You can connect with Maureen on LinkedIn @maureenlawton Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 6 - Re-Release: Creating Inclusivity at the Playground with Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons
11/12/2023
S8 Episode 6 - Re-Release: Creating Inclusivity at the Playground with Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons
In case you missed it, today we are re-releasing one of Simone and Julie's most popular episodes of The Inclusion School podcast. This episode is from Season 7 with their guests, the co-founders of Candidly Connecting, Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons. Veronica and Khalilah founded Candidly Connecting with the mission to create inclusivity at the playgrounds. They have a goal of empowering 1 million essential adults with this mission by 2027. They share how they came together for this mission and some of the ways you as an adult in a child's life can build community and have conversations that will help to build infrastructure for the future. It is important to start the conversations early. You can connect with Veronica & Khalilah at and on all social media platforms. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 5 - Navigating Work-Family Balance Real Talk
11/05/2023
S8 Episode 5 - Navigating Work-Family Balance Real Talk
In this Real Talk episode of The Inclusion School podcast, Simone and Julie dive into the topic of parental guilt and the challenges of balancing work, family, and caregiving responsibilities. As entrepreneurs, they acknowledge the privilege of having flexibility in navigating these roles. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on their travel schedules and how it has allowed them to spend more time with their families. However, they also recognize the pressure to return to a sense of normalcy and the guilt that comes with being away from their children. They explore the privilege of flexibility in entrepreneurship and compare it to the corporate world, where caregivers often have to ask for time off. Simone and Julie emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, seeking support, and challenging outdated gender norms. Join them for this candid conversation about the realities of parenting in today's society. Listen to this thought-provoking and relatable episode at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 4 - Having Courageous Conversations Real Talk
10/29/2023
S8 Episode 4 - Having Courageous Conversations Real Talk
Welcome to this week's episode of the Inclusion School Podcast! In today's Real Talk segment, Julie and Simone dive into the weighty topic of navigating conversations about the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict. With their daughters being directly impacted by this conflict, they discuss the importance of acknowledging its complexity and the need to educate their children about the privileges they possess. They also explore how schools and the internet play a role in exposing children to discussions about global conflicts and the importance of fostering inclusivity and sensitivity in these conversations. Join Julie and Simone as they unpack the challenges and opportunities of discussing complex issues with children in the information age. So grab your headphones and get ready for another insightful episode of the Inclusion School Podcast! Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 3 - Tackling Tough Topics with Children Real Talk
10/22/2023
S8 Episode 3 - Tackling Tough Topics with Children Real Talk
In this week's episode, hosts Julie Kratz and Simone Morris provide a real talk episode delving into the topic of having inclusive conversations with our children, specifically focusing on the tough topic of discussing the events in the Middle East. Julie and Simone acknowledge the challenges that caregivers and parents face when trying to explain complex and troubling world events to children. They emphasize the importance of meeting children where they are and tailoring the conversation to their age and understanding. Their insights provide valuable guidance for parents grappling with how to approach these difficult discussions. The hosts also encourage parents to be prepared by doing their own research and gathering talking points. As always, the Inclusion School Podcast aims to provide practical advice and insights to help create inclusive environments for children. Julie and Simone's approach is grounded in empathy and understanding, and their discussions offer valuable perspectives for all caregivers and educators. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 2 - Embracing Equitable Education with Nadia Bennett
10/15/2023
S8 Episode 2 - Embracing Equitable Education with Nadia Bennett
Welcome back to another episode of the Inclusion School Podcast! We are thrilled to have you join us as we continue our mission of promoting diverse and inclusive education. Today, Simone & Julie have a very special guest with them, Nadia Bennett, a former school leader, and the founder of When Brown Girls Lead™, an education consulting firm that leads the way for schools to become anti-racist learning environments through culturally-relevant leadership development and mentorship. Nadia's extensive experience as a former school teacher and principal in underserved areas has given her a unique perspective on the inequities within our education system. In this episode, Nadia shares her personal journey and the reasons behind her decision to pivot and create a more equitable education system. She also dives into the importance of culturally relevant content and provides practical tips for educators and parents on how to incorporate it into the classroom and conversations at home. Get ready for an eye-opening conversation filled with insights and strategies to foster inclusivity in our schools. You can connect with Nadia at: nadiabennett.com/podcast or on LinkedIn @Nadia A Bennett. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S8 Episode 1 - Back To School Real Talk with Simone & Julie
10/08/2023
S8 Episode 1 - Back To School Real Talk with Simone & Julie
Hosts Simone Morris and Julie Kratz are thrilled to launch Season 8 of the Inclusion School Podcast, and they couldn't think of a better topic to start the season than the importance of fostering inclusion in our schools. In this episode, Julie & Simone discuss strategies to set expectations with your child's teacher and create an inclusive environment from the get-go. They share insights from their own experiences and provide practical tips for proactive communication. The start of a new school year is an excellent opportunity to celebrate diversity. Simone & Julie offer simple activities that can spark meaningful discussions and help broaden children's understanding of different traditions and celebrations. And, of course, we want to hear from you! What questions or topics would you like us to address in future episodes? Please don't hesitate to reach out and let us know. We're here to provide the resources and support you need on your inclusion journey. To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at Listen to all episodes of the podcast at
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S7 Episode 9 - Creating Inclusivity at the Playground with Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons
04/09/2023
S7 Episode 9 - Creating Inclusivity at the Playground with Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons
Simone and Julie close out Season 7 of the Inclusion School Podcast with the co-founders of Candidly Connecting, Veronica Appleton & Khalilah Lyons. Veronica and Khalilah founded Candidly Connecting with the mission to create inclusivity at the playgrounds. They have a goal of empowering 1 million essential adults with this mission by 2027. They share how they came together for this mission and some of the ways you as an adult in a child's life can build community and have conversations that will help to build infrastructure for the future. It is important to start the conversations early. You can connect with Veronica & Khalilah at and on all social media platforms. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 8 Teaching Black History with Ernest Crim, III
04/02/2023
S7 Episode 8 Teaching Black History with Ernest Crim, III
Join Julie & Simone for an inspiring conversation with Black History Application Specialist, Ernest Crim III. Ernest uses Black History to empower and educate families. He shares stories about the people who inspired him to take the path he is taking and small steps we can take to learn Black History all year long. Some of the books that Ernest recommends are: "Why Are All The Black Kids Sitting Together in the Cafeteria?: And Other Conversations About Race" by Beverly Daniel Tatum "More Than Peach" by Bellen Woodard and fanny Liem "My Grandmother's Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies" by Resmaa Menakem MSW LICSW SEP, Cary Hite, et al. You can find more resources on his website: You can reach Ernest on Instagram and Linked In @mrcrim3 Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 7 - Willingness To Be Open with Nefertiti Austin
03/26/2023
S7 Episode 7 - Willingness To Be Open with Nefertiti Austin
In this episode, Julie & Simone welcome author and memoirist, Nefertiti Austin to the Inclusion School podcast. Nefertiti's critically acclaimed book, "Motherhood So White: A Memoir of Race, Gender and Parenting in America", addresses the lack of diverse voices in motherhood. She talks with Julie & Simone about the experiences that led her to write her book and shares her thoughts and advice about raising her children as a black Mom of black adopted children. Don't miss this inspiring and honest episode. You can find Nefertiti's book wherever you purchase your books and you can reach her on social media @nefertitiaustin. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 6 - Real Talk with Simone & Julie
03/19/2023
S7 Episode 6 - Real Talk with Simone & Julie
Back by popular demand, this week Simone & Julie get "real" with one of their Real Talk episodes. They delve into some of the hot diversity topics in education today including book banning and CRT. They share thoughts on opportunities to educate yourself and ways to talk with younger children about tough topics, meeting them where they are in their learning and understanding. Share your feedback and thoughts for more topics you would like to hear about with Simone and Julie by emailing them @ Listen to this and other episodes at . Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 5 - Untold Stories with Eve Catarevas
03/12/2023
S7 Episode 5 - Untold Stories with Eve Catarevas
In celebration of Women's History Month, Simone and Julie welcome children's book author, Eve Nadel Catarevas to the podcast. Eve writes picture book biographies about little-known women in history whose stories are not often told. She shares how she discovers these stories of forgotten figures in history and brings them to life for children. They are fascinating stories about amazing women! You can learn more about Eve and her books on her website: Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 4 - Embracing Learning & Thinking Differences with Dr. Andrew Kahn
03/05/2023
S7 Episode 4 - Embracing Learning & Thinking Differences with Dr. Andrew Kahn
Julie and Simone are delighted to welcome the Associate Director, Behavior Change & Expertise at Understood.org, Dr. Andrew Kahn, to the Inclusion School Podcast. Dr. Kahn is a licensed psychologist specializing in working with individuals who think and learn differently. In his role at Understood.org, Dr. Kahn focuses on ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, general learning and behavioral challenges, and learning and social-emotional functioning. He shares his personal story of growing up with ADHD and experiencing a disconnect with his education. Dr. Kahn discusses tools for parents to utilize for conversations with their neurodiverse children and to help them understand their child in the context of the real world. You can connect with Dr. Kahn at , a non-profit organization that provides resources and support so that people who learn and think differently can thrive. Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 3 - Foster Empathy Through Books with Ana Siqueira
02/26/2023
S7 Episode 3 - Foster Empathy Through Books with Ana Siqueira
Julie & Simone are excited to welcome teacher and children's book author, Ana Siqueira to the Inclusion School Podcast. Ana is also the co-founder of #LatinxPitch on Twitter for Latinx writers and illustrators to showcase the voices, stories, and diversity of Latinx kidlit creators. Ana discusses her books and the need for more representation in books for all kids. Kids need to see themselves in books. She shares tips for parents to read and discuss books with diverse characters. You can connect with Ana and learn about her books at Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 2 - Being All of Who You Are with Farzana Nayani
02/19/2023
S7 Episode 2 - Being All of Who You Are with Farzana Nayani
Simone and Julie welcome Farzana Nayani to the podcast. Farzana is a recognized DEI coach and keynote speaker who was raised in a multifaith, multiracial, and multicultural family. She talks about raising multiracial children and finding pride in who you are. She shares her own stories of the different dimensions of multicultural and multiracial families along with the teachable moments that arise. You can connect with Farzana through her website or on Facebook and LinkedIn. And on Instagram @multiracialmatters. Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S7 Episode 1 - Learn What You Don't Know with Tiffany Johnson-Harwick
02/12/2023
S7 Episode 1 - Learn What You Don't Know with Tiffany Johnson-Harwick
Tiffany Johnson-Harwick joins the Inclusion School Podcast this week as we launch Season 7, sharing her story of her shift from the corporate world to Education. She is dual certified in special and general education and is a behavioral specialist. She talks of her experiences as a child in the 90's growing up experiencing racism and her desire to fix things and be a problem solver. Tiffany encourages parents and caregivers to seek out ways to talk to children about difficult subjects. Her goal is to continue to normalize and intertwine accessibility, inclusion, equity, diversity and belonging into standard educational instructional practices. You can reach Tiffany on Instagram @Tiffany_educationallyinclusive and on LinkedIn. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 11 - Season 6 Wrap Up with Julie & Simone
11/20/2022
S6 Episode 11 - Season 6 Wrap Up with Julie & Simone
Join Simone and Julie as they wrap up this Season with a look back at the episodes and guests and all the valuable lessons learned. Learn about their favorite episodes and what they are looking forward to including in the Inclusion School Podcast in 2023. The podcast will be returning in 2023 with more great episodes. Until then, enjoy some of the past episodes and let us know what you would like to hear about next season. Thank you for your support. Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 10 - Real Talk with Simone & Julie
11/13/2022
S6 Episode 10 - Real Talk with Simone & Julie
Join Simone & Julie this week for a Real Talk episode where they delve into school celebrations, election day and talking about voting rights with your children, and share hair stories. They discuss curiosity and setting boundaries. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 9 - Be Curious Considerately with Raven Solomon
11/06/2022
S6 Episode 9 - Be Curious Considerately with Raven Solomon
In this episode, Simone & Julie welcome Raven Solomon, a global Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion thought leader and speaker to the podcast. Raven discusses the intersection between generational identity and other types of identities. How does Gen Z differ from their parents and grandparents? She discusses how understanding these differences and leading with empathy and curiosity will help to develop future leaders. Connect with Raven on Linked In and at . Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 8 - Supporting Neurodiversity with Emma Arnoff
10/30/2022
S6 Episode 8 - Supporting Neurodiversity with Emma Arnoff
Julie & Simone welcome owner of The Sensory Space, Emma Arnoff to the podcast. Emma shares her story and talks about creating safe environments for neurodivergent children. She introduces steps to create classrooms with every learner in mind. Reach Emma at Resource mentioned: Dr. Robert Jason Grant - Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 7 - Diversity and Inclusion From a Student's View with Anaya Uttamchandani
10/23/2022
S6 Episode 7 - Diversity and Inclusion From a Student's View with Anaya Uttamchandani
This week, Simone & Julie welcome their youngest guest, 6th grader Anaya Uttamchandani to the podcast. Anaya shares her views on how students and classrooms can be more inclusive. She has already taken action and shows how you can be a change maker at any age. Don't miss this refreshing conversation. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 6 - Candid Conversations with Sally Perkins
10/16/2022
S6 Episode 6 - Candid Conversations with Sally Perkins
Simone and Julie welcome Sally Perkins back to the podcast to share her lessons, tips and suggestions on how to have candid conversations with children about current topics. There are big stories in the news, from women's rights to voting rights that children hear either at home or in school. How and when do you start those conversations to help them navigate these subjects? Sally has some great suggestions to help. Reach Sally at: Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 5 - Be Kind, Be Curious, And Be Inclusive with Adelle Spindlove
10/09/2022
S6 Episode 5 - Be Kind, Be Curious, And Be Inclusive with Adelle Spindlove
Simone and Julie are excited to have children's book author, Adelle Spindlove on this episode of the podcast. Adelle shares the story behind her book, Freddie and the High Flying Kick. It is a book about disability and inclusion based on her personal experience and uses story telling to highlight ways that children can include their disabled friends in games and activities. Find Adelle's book, Freddie and the High Flying Kick on . You can also follow her book on FB and IG. Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 4 - Inspiring Young Readers Through Diverse Books with Brytani Cavil
10/02/2022
S6 Episode 4 - Inspiring Young Readers Through Diverse Books with Brytani Cavil
Julie & Simone are delighted to welcome Brytani Cavil, founder of to this episode. She shares why she felt it was important to find and share books that have diverse characters for children to read. Her mission and enthusiasm is inspiring. Be sure to listen to the full episode at You can follow Brytani on Facebook and Instagram @thebrownbookbox or visit her website To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 3 - Inclusive Learning Framework with Tim Villegas
09/25/2022
S6 Episode 3 - Inclusive Learning Framework with Tim Villegas
Tim Villegas joins Simone and Julie on this episode of the Inclusion School podcast. Tim spent 16 years as a special education educator advocating for students with and without disabilities to learn side by side in the general education classroom. He shares his experience, knowledge and a roadmap for inclusive learning for all students. You can listen to Tim as host of his Listen to the entire podcast at To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 2 - The Importance of Environment with Dionne Penager
09/18/2022
S6 Episode 2 - The Importance of Environment with Dionne Penager
Join Simone and Julie as they talk with Diversity & Inclusion HR professional, Dionne Penager. As a parent, Dionne is a member of her daughter's school diversity committee. Through personal stories and experiences, she shares the importance of connection and conversations and proactive partnering with educators. Connect with Dionne on Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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S6 Episode 1 - Talking About Identity with Kevin Hofmann
09/11/2022
S6 Episode 1 - Talking About Identity with Kevin Hofmann
Julie and Simone start Season 6 with a powerful episode talking with author, speaker and trainer, Kevin Hofmann. Kevin shares his story about growing up in the Detroit area as a bi-racial child adopted by white parents. His story is detailed in his book, "Growing Up Black In White". Kevin talks about working with school age children to help them discover and express their identity. Connect with Kevin at or Listen to the entire podcast at . To reach us, email Grab resources mentioned in the show at
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