Welcome back to Think inclusive where each week we bring you conversations about inclusive education, and what inclusion looks like in the real world. Dr. Leah M. Kelly is a storyteller, writer, activist, teacher, educator, education consultant, and parent who identifies as neuro divergent and otherwise disabled. She was a K 12 public school teacher for over 25 years, and has extensive experience supporting inclusion. Her newly published book, The person who arrives connecting disability studies to educational practice for teachers, parents and others, evolved from her doctoral research, which she completed at Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. She is currently working as an adjunct professor in the Faculty of Education teacher education program at UBC University of British Columbia, and guest lecturing colleges and other programs and organizations, such as case the Canadian Association for supported employment. Dr. Kelly's work focuses on connecting disability studies and education to educational practice strength based perspectives for supporting neurodiversity, addressing ableism, inclusive practices and pedagogy, and cultivating advocacy. In this episode of thinking cluesive Lea and I discussed the power of storytelling, and the importance of including diverse perspectives and disability studies and education. Leah shares personal stories and insights emphasizing the need for radical acceptance in the impact of relationships and fostering inclusion. She also explores the concept of arriving and the connection between acceptance and understanding. Before we dive into our conversation with Dr. Kelly, I want to share a word from this week's sponsor. With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism the Autism Society of America is dedicated to creating connections, empowering everyone in the autism community with the resources needed to live fully as the nation's oldest leading grassroots autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70 affiliates serve over half a million people each year. By championing initiatives that advance equitable opportunities in health care, education, employment, safety and public policy. The organization executes a national reach with meaningful local impact. Through education, advocacy, support and community programming. The Autism Society works toward a world in which everyone is connected to the support they need when they need it. For more information, go to autism society.org. The connection is you. And now my conversation with Dr. Leah M Kelly.