Autism, Empathy, and Global Inclusion with Joanne Copeland - Episode 16

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

In this episode of The Inclusive Dad Podcast, host AAron interviews Joanne Copeland, who shares her story as a mother of twins with autism in Australia. Joanne opens up about the challenges of balancing different educational paths for her children and the societal shifts toward more inclusive environments. She discusses the value of empathy and how her experiences inspired her to write a bestselling book to raise awareness about disabilities and inclusion.

Key Takeaways:

Unique Journeys: Joanne’s experience raising twins with autism highlights the individuality of each child’s needs.

Educational Challenges: Navigating different levels of schooling is crucial for children with disabilities.

Inclusion and Empathy: Empathy plays a key role in fostering inclusion at all stages of life.

Support Systems: Community and governmental support are essential in helping individuals with disabilities thrive.

Global Opportunities: There is a need for international programs that foster inclusion and global opportunities for people with disabilities.

Joanne’s definition of inclusion:

Equal access and opportunities accepting All, with no discrimination or intolerance.

Joanne’s Bio:

Joanne is a mother of four, who lives in a leafy suburb of Melbourne, Australia.

After completing Year 12, Joanne worked in many varied and interesting industries over 20 years as an Executive Assistant and Auditor. Firstly, in full-time, then part-time positions when she became a mum.

Returning to study when her youngest child was 2 years old, Joanne then worked with children who had a disability in pre-school and primary school settings, while juggling a busy home life.

Joanne wrote poetry when she was younger and has always been an avid reader.

Her dream of writing a book has evolved over several years, with a hope to share her journey, experience and knowledge with others.

Joanne enjoys public speaking, and has a strong interest in healthy eating, exercise, home renovating and travel.

Footsteps of Two is Joanne’s first book, a very truthful heartfelt insight from a mother of twins with Autism. A story of navigating unknown territory and finding inner strength

Joanne’s outlook on life is one of never give up, which has assisted her to support her twins with their greatest challenge.

Mother to Bryce, Zalie, Flynn and Anaye, Joanne has brought a dream to reality by writing her book. She hopes to share her positive and personal story to help others navigating a journey similar to hers.

Since publishing, ‘Footsteps of Two’ has received an Amazon best seller acknowledgement.

Currently, Joanne is focusing on writing a second book and supporting Zalie with her Art and Jewellery.

Connect with Joanne:

Website: https://www.joannecopeland.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannecopeland_author/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@joannecopeland_author

Buy the Book: https://a.co/d/dW5oUHO

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 6

No - 7

Hasn’t tried it - 1

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