End Seclusion Podcast

Please join us for “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are Still Important in Education: An Interview with Nicole Keler.”Nicole Keler is a passionate special education leader with nine years of experience working in the public charter school system across Washington, D.C. She is currently a Specialist on the School Equity and Effectiveness team at the D.C. Public Charter School Board. However, she started in the education system as a special education teacher, then transitioned to working as an inclusion manager to support families and students with diverse learning needs on a larger scale. She believes that home-school partnerships are the key to successful student outcomes. Rooted in trauma-informed practices such as Flamboyan and Conscious Discipline, Nicole works tirelessly to engage families throughout the special education process and has created systems to ensure team collaboration during the Tier 1,2,3 process. Her experience inspired her to establish LiveWellEd, with co-founder Angie Zara to bridge school and family best practices.Support the show

Please join us for “A Parent's Journey: From ABA to a Better Way” with Chantelle Hyde. When I think back to about five years ago now, around the time that I first learned of my daughter's traumatic seclusion incident at school from another parent, I was in a state of shock. After running into one frustrating and upsetting experience after another with the school and district, and even in reviewing provincial education policies, the only thing that I could think to do was to search for the issue of seclusion and restraint online. This is when I found the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint. In this session, I'll share my journey as a parent from ABA and behaviorism to finding a better way. Chantelle Hyde: Chantelle is a dedicated mother and advocate. She became an active advocate against restraint and seclusion after learning that their daughter was being locked in a room at school in rural New Brunswick, Canada. Chantelle's path to advocacy was paved by her desire to be a part of a community of support for other families. Chantelle hopes to bring positive change to Canadian systems. Chantelle is the lead Canadian volunteer for the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint and facilitates book study groups for the organization.Support the show

Please join us for “The Journey Towards Neuroscience-Aligned Education” with Katie Pagnotta, Ellen Surprenant, and Sam Chadwick.Katie Pagnotta is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, functional success educational consultant, parent coach, and author. She is also the creator of the Brain- and Body-Aligned Responsive Systems (BBARS) of Excellence framework. She guides educators, administrators, and school staff in strengths-based approaches that leverage the human design and empower the development of the necessary mindsets and habits that lead to re-envisioned success; success the achieves goals by rooting in wellness.Katie authored Empowered by the Human Design: Utilizing the BBARS of Excellence Framework to Foster Student and Educator Success, a book that includes interview segments from 18 experts within the fields of education, psychology, and neuroscience. The book is a work of collective wisdom grounded in Polyvagal Theory and synthesized in a user-friendly way to facilitate practical application for educators. Its reviewers have called it “a powerful and practical new model for regulation and resilience,” “required reading for all educators,” “a gift to the field,” and “a game-changer.” Throughout the book, Katie combines the wisdom of her interviewees with her own research as well as her years of experience as a former K-12 NH public school counselor.Katie utilizes her book and framework as tools to support schools in their journey of moving towards neuroscience-aligned education. She is passionate about providing professional development opportunities that support the whole school community in order to help educators and students thrive!Sam Chadwick has been working as an educator for five years, four of which have been at Somerset Elementary School. Even before graduating and starting her professional career she always had a passion for working with kids and did so as a tutor, nanny, and in the PreK/daycare setting. After working with, and learning about students with exceptionalities and students with trauma, she decided to get her masters degree in Trauma-Informed education to better her practice and approach to support all students. Sam runs her classroom with one main mantra for herself, the other adults in the room, and her students; "Be a good human." Sam believes it's important to remember everyone in the classroom has different needs to be successful and assists students in meeting their needs in ways that aren't hurting someone else's path to learning. She works to create a welcoming and encouraging environment where all adults and students can be successful using routine, setting and achieving goals, and using regulation as a path for connection.In her 30 years as an educator, Ellen Surprenant has been privileged to learn alongside students, educators, and families, in a variety of public elementary school settings. She has worked as a PK teacher, a classroom teacher, literacy specialist, a special education teacher, and an Assistant Director of Special Services. Currently, Ellen is the building administrator at Somerset Elementary School in Hartland, Maine. Her mission is to use a neuroscience and strengths-based approach to grow and support a team that views behavior through a regulation lens; understanding actions as a response to the body's internal state, particularly the nervous system, rather than as intentional or willful choices. The ultimate aim of this approach is to foster a community of safety, creativity, curiosity, and kindness leading to improved job satisfaction and retention for educators and joyful, engaged learning for students.Support the show

Please join us for “Lessons in Listening with Yeiter.”Yeiter has 50 years of personal commitment to specifically supporting people who live in a status he names a “reputation for challenging behavior”. He draws on a rich personal history. His time in the company of people defined by a story of challenging behavior begins in an unreformed back ward in 1971 and continues through an attempt to reform the institution by implementing behavior analytic treatments, the move into local group homes and day programs, the implementation of integrated special education, and the development of individualized supports for work roles and establishing people in their own homes. In making a positive difference in people's lives, he has taken many roles: ward attendant, behavior specialist, administrator, consultant, and teacher.Support the show

Please join us for “Pathological Demand Avoidance: Born Outside the System” with Sandra McConnell. Sandra McConnell, who is sometimes known as the PDA Mama Bear, is an instructor, speaker, blogger, and parent coach. She has bachelor's and master's degrees in psychology, and two graduate certificates in neurodiversity and learning differences. And her 13-year-old son is Pathologically Demand Avoidant, or PDA, an unofficial autism profile characterized by an intense and persistent anxiety-driven need to resist demands. It just so happens, Sandra is PDA, too, diagnosed in early 2024. While parenting her son and navigating the school system were certainly a challenge, they've had relative success, and she attributes the edge to her insider's perspective – one she described as perpetually on the outside looking in.  Support the show

Please join us for “Understanding Autistic Strengths & Differences: Why It's Essential for Meaningful Support” with Staci Neustadt and Susan Golubock.Staci Neustadt, CEO of Making Sense of Autism®, is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist with over 20 years of experience providing individual and group therapy, training, mentorship, and leadership. In 2019, Staci joined Susan in developing the Neuro Strengths Based Support for Autism framework. Staci is passionate about creating a paradigm shift for therapists to holistically support autistic clients and for autistic clients to feel seen and heard as they build on their strengths and contribute their gifts to their community.Susan Golubock is a retired occupational therapist. She received her Masters degree in Occupational Therapy from Western Michigan University in 1968 and Masters of Education degree in special education technology in 1995. She was diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum in 1999. Most of her career has been spent in school-based practice. Susan has been a keynote speaker and presenter at various conferences. Susan developed the Neuro-Strengths Based Support for Autism Framework, which comes from her personal experience as an autistic individual and professional experience as an occupational therapist who worked with autistic clients. She grew up trying to “be like everyone else;” she succeeded in masking but at the cost of never developing a sense of “self,” which led to symptoms of post-traumatic stress. When she was finally diagnosed in my early 50s, I learned that there were other options for how to think and behave, which radically changed my life for the better. Susan's passion is to educate parents and professionals so the autistic individuals in their lives are understood.Support the show

Please join us for “Systemic Shifts in Inclusion: Neuroscience-Informed Practices for Transformation and Capacity Building” with Angelina Zara and Nicole Keler.Angelina Zara was born and raised in the heart of Washington, DC; Angie found her passion in education in 2015, serving students and caregivers in her hometown. Angie's career includes the creation of the position of Social Emotional Learning Specialist in her previous school building, which subsequently expanded across the Local Educational Agency, ranging from elementary to high school campuses. Her experience includes implementing school-wide shifts through sustaining positive relationships, capacity building, addressing adult mindsets, and leveraging positive outcomes for staff and students. In the Spring of 2024, Angie made her transition to work for Washington, DC Public Schools to support schools across the city in implementing restorative practices to support the whole child. Additionally, Angie collaborated with the Office of the State Superintendent (OSSE) to create the first set of Washington DC Social and Emotional Learning Standards. In addition to working full time in the DC school system, Angie presents nationally on the topics of trauma accommodating principles and strategies, applied educational neuroscience, and adult wellbeing and nervous system regulation. Angie also serves as an adjunct faculty for Butler University's Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification Program under trauma-informed trailblazer Dr. Lori Desautels. In 2023, Angie co-founded LiveWellEd, LLC, which supports caregivers, educators, and organizations responding to the needs of the post-pandemic education system by sharing best practices and systems design through consulting and coaching.Nicole Keler is a passionate special education leader with nine years of experience working in the public charter school system across Washington, D.C. She is currently a Specialist on the School Equity and Effectiveness team at the D.C. Public Charter School Board. However, she started in the education system as a special education teacher, then transitioned to working as an inclusion manager to support families and students with diverse learning needs on a larger scale. She believes that home-school partnerships are the key to successful student outcomes. Rooted in trauma-informed practices such as Flamboyan and Conscious Discipline, Nicole works tirelessly to engage families throughout the special education process and has created systems to ensure team collaboration during the Tier 1,2,3 process. Her experience inspired her to establish LiveWellEd, with co-founder Angie Zara to bridge school and family best practicesSupport the show

Please join us for “Reducing and Eliminating Restraint and Seclusion in a Vermont School District: A Discussion with Superintendent Michael Leichliter”Mike is passionate about the ability of public education to provide all students with a high-quality education and is proud to be the superintendent of Harwood Unified Union School District. Mike's goal is to improve classroom experiences for students and teachers and be a champion in the community for public education.He started his career in 1991 as a middle school and high school social studies teacher in the City of York, Pennsylvania. Following experiences as a high school assistant principal, middle school principal, and assistant superintendent for personnel, he was named Superintendent of Schools for the Penn Manor School District in 2009, a school system serving 5400 students in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.After finishing his educational career in Pennsylvania, Mike was drawn to the Harwood Unified Union School District in central Vermont through his travels in the state, particularly during the time his daughter attended the University of Vermont.Mike is a member of the Vermont Superintendents Association and currently serves as its representative on the statewide Commission on the Future of Public Education in Vermont.He is enjoying the opportunity to learn, discover, and help Harwood make the progress the school desires for its students and community.Support the show

Please join us for “Not an Autism Mom: A Discussion with Meghan Ashburn.”Meghan Ashburn is a continuous learner, former elementary educator, family support specialist, speaker, and co-author of the award-winning book, I Will Die On This Hill. Her book club of over 15K members publishes book recommendation lists on autism and neurodiversity, and her website NotAnAutismMom.com is packed with resources for parents and educators. Meghan has advocated for communication rights and inclusion at the local, state, and national levels of governmentSupport the show

Please join us for “Let's Talk About Interoception: A Discussion with Kelly Mahler.”Kelly Mahler is an award-winning occupational therapist, author, and interoception groupie known for her boundless curiosity and fondness for crunching pinecones. Holding a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy, she has served school-aged children and adults for over 23 years. Kelly is the author of 12 resources, including The Interoception Curriculum, now used in over 30 countries worldwide. She enjoys speaking internationally on interoception, neuro-affirming practices, and playful strategies for inner exploration using a lens of curiosity, validation, and empathy.  Support the show

Please join us for “Your FBA is a Fantasy! Making Trauma-Informed, Neuro-Affirming Practices Actionable, and Aligning our FBAs and BSPs Accordingly” – An Interview with Rick & Doris Bowman about their workshop and upcoming book on trauma-informed FBAs & BSPs Bringing together their combined experience and expertise in the fields of both mental health and education, Rick and Doris Bowman, affectionately known by schools and agencies around the country as “Team Bowman”, provide speaking, training, consultation, and coaching services to both educational organization and mental health agencies on topics of Trauma-Informed Practices/Care, Resilience Practices, Neuro-Affirming Practices, and approaches for intervening with youth with chronic challenging behavior of any cause. Having lived through the opposite ends of what they view as the “trauma spectrum” in childhood, Rick and Doris bring not only their professional expertise but their lived experience to the work that they do – Rick having grown up in the “hot family” that was marked by violence and abuse as a result of his father's own PTSD from serving 4 years fighting in the Philippines in WWII and his mother's mental health diagnosis of schizophrenia, and Doris in the “cold family” where she experienced invalidation of feeling and emotion altogether and the trauma of having had 9 family friends (adults and children) murdered just down the street when she was 7 years old and her family never speaking about what had happened. Rick & Doris's credentials include the following:·         M.A. in Clinical Psychology (Rick)·         M.S., Education / Special Education (Doris)·         Advanced Certified Trauma & Resilience Practitioner – Education® (ACTRP-E®)·         Advanced Certified Trauma & Resilience Practitioner – Clinical (ACTRP-C®)·         Certified HeartMath® and “The Coherence Advantage®” Trainer·         Certified “The Resilient Heart” HeartMath Trauma Practitioner·         Certified “Stress & Well-Being Assessment®” Provider (HeartMath Institute)·         Certified Trainer “Collaborative Problem Solving®(Think:Kids, Massachusetts General Hospital)·         K-12 licensed school administrator in the state of Oregon·         PCI Certified Parent Coach®·         Certified special educator & administrator in the state of OregonBetween them, Rick & Doris have held roles that include:·         Therapist·         Program Director·         Clinical Consultant·         Social Emotional Academic Learning Program Teacher·         Behavior Specialist·         Principal·         Assistant Principal·         Student Services Director They are now in the final stages of preparing to release their first book, titled after their current workshop – “Your FBA is a Fantasy! A Guide to Making Trauma-Informed, Neuro-Affirming Practices Actionable, and Aligning our FBAs and Behavior Plans Accordingly”.Support the show

Please join us for “The (Re)Education of Schools: A Discussion with Katie Thornton and Justin Moorman.”Justin Moorman and Katie Thornton are veteran educators who are well versed in Trauma-Informed Practices with advanced training in the Neurosequential Model in Education, Applied Educational Neuroscience, Crisis Prevention Intervention, Restorative Practices, Treatment and Education of Autistic and related Communication Handicapped Children (TEACCH), and Advanced Collaborative and Proactive Solutions. They believe kids do well if they can, and problems should be solved WITH kids. They look forward to sharing their passion with others to continue to help reform educational practices based on current research. Katie and Justin have launched the (Re)Education of Schools Podcast to give voice, advocacy, support, and professional development to other educatorsSupport the show

Please join us for “Bolstering Self-Regard: the Energetics of Helping Children Thrive in Negative Classroom Environments” with Erin Grimm.Erin Grimm comes from a long line of educators. She has over ten years of experience teaching world languages and English and now owns her own business "Seahurst Learns Together," which is dedicated to academic coaching of students with what she calls "alternative emotional intelligence."Support the show

Please join us for “Providing Trauma-Informed Care: Responses That Don't Work and Five Tools to Help Kids Thrive” with Katie Crosby, M.S., L.P.C.Katie Crosby is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in the treatment of childhood/developmental, trauma, and human trafficking in children and adolescents. Prior to this, Katie served as the Program Director for a long-term residential treatment facility for youth who were survivors of human trafficking or who are at high risk of exploitation. During this time, Katie developed the first innovative program that was grounded in neuroscience, early childhood development, and traumatology for survivors of domestic minor sex trafficking victims in the state of Arkansas.After starting a family of her own, she left the non-profit organization and founded Surviving Trauma Specialty Care Clinic that provides counseling, assessment, education, and consultation services to families and organizations. Through her innovative approach that is grounded in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, she provides assessment and counseling services that utilizes the brain's ability to grow and heal.STS Care Clinic also provides online or in-person workshops, public speaking, and consulting on initiatives to spread awareness about childhood trauma and teach parents, caregivers, and professionals how to help children improve their mental health. Using the latest research available, Katie shares practical, evidence-based skills for healing and preventing trauma.Throughout her career, Katie witnessed an outrageous gap between the number of children that experience trauma and the number of adults who know how to support them. In response, she founded Surviving Trauma Specialty Care Clinic (STS Care Clinic) to help children, adolescents, and families heal from the wounds of trauma through neuroscience & trauma-focused services. Through her innovative approach that is grounded in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, she provides assessment and counseling services that utilize the brain's ability to grow and heal.STS Care Clinic also provides online or in-person workshops, public speaking, and consulting on initiatives to spread awareness about childhood trauma and teach parents, caregivers, and professionals how to help children improve their mental health. Using the latest research available, Katie shares practical, evidence-based skills for healing and preventing trauma.Support the show

Please join us for “Step Into My Shoes: An Interview with Author Rebecca Engle About Her New Children's Book.”Rebecca Engle is a graduate student at Texas Tech University who is passionate about educational policy and leadership. Rebecca made history in Texas politics at 19 and is devoted to advocating for positive change. Alongside her studies, Rebecca is a Neurodivergent public speaker and creative writer. She actively serves her community, support women in business, and nurture young minds as a special education teacher. Rebecca's goal is to inspire and collaborate for a brighter future.Support the show

Please join us for “Rethinking Challenging Behaviors: An Interview with Maria Sanders.”Maria Sanders is a Licensed Social Worker, PCI Certified Parent Coach® and is certified in the Collaborative Problem Solving® (CPS) approach by Think:Kids, a program based at the Department of Psychiatry at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Her work is supported by Conscious Parenting and Collaborative Problem Solving®. She works with parents struggling with any parenting challenge, from getting a child to sleep to addressing parent-teen conflict.Maria works one-on-one with parents virtually or in her Montclair, NJ office. She offers programs to schools (public and independent), pediatrician offices, professional organizations, and corporate meetings.Maria started her professional career as a school social worker doing work for the Child Study Team and running social skills groups. Additionally, she has 15+ years experience as an Early Intervention Specialist serving as a teacher and social worker.See lessSupport the show

Please join us for “Heart-Strong Changemakers for Children™, a New Program from HEART-STRONG International” with Sandi Lerman.Sandi Lerman is the Founder and Program Director of Heart-Strong International and the creator of the Heart-Strong Model™ - a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming system for growth, healing, and transformation in children and adults.Heart-Strong International (HSI) provides certification programs and training for heart-centered practitioners and aspiring coaches to build confidence, learn an effective coaching system, and make money doing work they love.Sandi is a certified transformational coach, mindfulness teacher, and somatic practitioner. A lifelong educator, she has over twenty years of teaching experience in K-12, university, and adult education settings and has been a university instructor for a master's program in trauma and resilience in schools.In addition to her training certified transformational coaches, parent coaches, and educational trainers, she has coordinated two state-wide non-profit parenting and community mental health education programs in Indiana.Sandi is also a former American Sign Language interpreter, speaks Spanish, and has lived and worked as an international educator in both Scotland and Mexico.Most importantly, she is the proud Mama Bear of Hiro, a young adult adopted at age ten who has overcome extreme challenges resulting from complex developmental trauma.Support the show

Please join us for “Making Sense of Even the Most Baffling Behaviors: An Interview with Robyn Gobbel.”Robyn Gobbel, MSW, loves coffee, P!NK, and everything about the brain. Once (recently!) her teenager went ballistic on her for getting ANOTHER (glitter!) coffee mug in the mail. Robyn loves cultivating deep, resonant connections with anyone who is up for it, and is especially fond of all the grown-ups in the world who love and care for kids impacted by trauma- helpers, healers, educators, and parents. Robyn's favorite thing ever (besides glittery coffee mugs) is teaching anyone who will listen to harness the power of neuroscience so they can cultivate deep, resonant connections. What would change in the world if we could all do that? To see, be with, feel, and deeply know each other…and ourselves. Robyn thinks everything could change. Robyn is an author, educator, and former therapist turned community creator. She runs a virtual community for parents of kids with big, baffling behaviors and teaches professionals how to help the families no one else knows how to help. You can get your hands on all sorts of free resources at www.RobynGobbel.com, including her podcast, The Baffling Behavior Show. Support the show

Please join us for “All Our Instincts About Behavior Are Wrong” with Diane Gould.Diane Gould is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in serving autistic individuals. As the Executive Director and Founder of PDA North America, she founded the annual PDA North America conference held in Chicago which has changed the lives of hundreds of PDA families.Currently, Diane has a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, where she serves neurodivergent children, adults, and their families. Over the last 40-plus years, she has worked for both private agencies and school systems. Diane was the Childhood Disability and Family Support Specialist for the Jewish Children's Bureau for over a decade. She created many different types of programs and support groups, family camps, and parent education. She also established inclusion consultation and home visiting programs. She also has worked for two special education cooperatives which resulted in working in 14 schools during her career.She served on the Professional Advisory Board of the Autism Society of Illinois for many years. Diane also facilitates a program to improve relationship skills for teens and adults.She has served as a consultant and guest lecturer for many area school districts, parent associations, and private agencies.Diane provides assessments and consultations to families and school districts and frequently attends school meetings. Diane has always been interested in human behavior and works with individuals, parents, and schools to create support plans that increase emotional regulation. She has been vocal with her concerns that our commonly used practices increase dysregulation and make behavioral challenges worse. She fights against punitive practices including seclusion, restraint, suspension, and expulsion.It was the understanding of behavior and support in the PDA literature that first drew her to learn more about PDA. And learning about PDA, led her to begin the new PDA movement in North America. Diane formed PDA North America at the first American PDA conference in March 2020. She has written a book with Ruth Fidler on Navigating PDA in America which will be published in June 2024.She is making it part of her life's mission to gain more awareness and understanding of PDA in North America through this non-profit organization.Support the show

Please join us for “An Interview with Julie Roberts: The Gold Standard Fallacy of ABA."Julie Roberts, M.S., CCC-SLP, founding CEO of Therapist Neurodiversity Collective, Inc., is a late-diagnosed Autistic ASHA-certified, licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who has been practicing since 1999. She is a frequent speaker, educator, and trainer who delivers high-energy presentations that challenge audiences to reexamine their beliefs about Autism and re-access outdated and damaging therapy and education practices.Julie's work focuses on professional and public education about empathetic evidence-based therapy alternatives to ABA and behavioral therapy models that are non-trauma inducing and respectful of autistic social communication differences, social justice, and human rights. Her articles and educational resources have reached well over three-quarters of a million people and are frequently cited in other presentations and articles.Support the show

Please join us for “Accessible Neuroscience and Connecting Strategies that Bring Calm into the Home and Classroom” with Ginger Healy MSW, LCSW.Ginger Healy MSW, LCSW started her career as a child abuse investigator, hospital social worker, and school therapist. She spent 15 years as the social service supervisor at an international adoption agency, where she learned about developmental trauma and attachment needs in children. She is currently a clinical social worker and the director of programs at the Attachment & Trauma Network. She co-anchors the podcast “Regulated and Relational” with Julie Beem, executive director of ATN. Ginger speaks and teaches across the nation on trauma-informed schools and therapeutic parenting. Ginger is the author of Regulation and Co-Regulation: Accessible Neuroscience that Brings Calm into the Classroom, and she is also the author of the accompanying workbook that aims to reach beyond the classroom for caregivers and child-serving professionals. Her third book, Managing Big Emotions: Identifying Triggers, Developing Coping Strategies, and Communicating Effectively, was released just this month! (Oct 2024)Support the show

Please join us for “Lessons in Leadership: An Interview with Charles Williams about Shifting School Discipline Practices.”Charles Williams, a dedicated educator with nearly two decades of experience, has made impactful contributions in various capacities, including teacher, assistant principal, and principal within the K-12 educational sector. His unwavering commitment to fostering equity is highlighted through his advocacy work with the Equity Offices of both the City of Chicago and Chicago Public Schools. Charles extends his passion for promoting inclusive narratives as the host of "The Counter Narrative Podcast" and as a former co-host of the educational show "Inside the Principal's Office." In addition to his educational endeavors, Charles is the founder of a consulting firm, where he thrives as a best-selling author and is celebrated for his compelling workshops and motivational keynote speeches.Expanding his influence beyond his immediate professional circle, Charles contributes his expertise and insights as a board member for the College of Humanities, Education, and Social Sciences at Purdue Northwest. His commitment to educational excellence and leadership development is further exemplified through his roles on the boards of Lead by Learning and the Leadership EDIT Conference. Through these positions, Charles continues to advocate for transformative educational practices and leadership strategies that resonate across diverse platforms and communities.Support the show

Please join us for “The Journey to Develop Reframing Behavior: A New Neuroscience Aligned Program for Educators” with Susan Driscoll, Patricia Bosco, and Connie Persike.Susan Driscoll is President of Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) and oversees the development of all products and programs, the trainers who deliver them, and for the support and care of the clients who use them. She joined CPI in 2017 and is based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and in 2022 was named a Director of the company.Prior to joining CPI, Susan served as President and CEO of Wolters Kluwer Health, Professional and Education, where she transformed the business from a traditional book publisher to a subscription-based healthcare content business. She has extensive experience in both healthcare and higher education publishing and training.Susan also has startup experience: prior to joining Wolters Kluwer, Susan was CEO of iUniverse, an internet-based provider of self-publishing services that was funded by Barnes & Noble and Warburg Pincus.Patricia Bosco is the Instructional Designer for Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI).Patricia is passionate about creating change and growth through effective and engaging learning experiences. An avid advocate for designing learning that places the learner's needs, capabilities, and experiences at the center of the design process.Connie Persike, M.S., CCC/SLP, is a highly experienced Speech Language Pathologist and Educational Consultant. She has 20+ years of experience in educational settings and holds a certificate in instructional coaching, positive education, and applied educational neuroscience.She served as a member of the multi-state work group to help develop the Common Core Essential Elements for English Language Arts. Connie is a published writer for Autism Parenting Magazine and writes for Exceptional Needs Today. She created an innovative process to assess student behavior, which deviates from the traditional behaviorism approach and aligns with current relational and neuroscience while maintaining a trauma-sensitive and neurodiversity approach.Support the show

Please join us for “Misunderstandings of Discipline” with Jodi Place. Jodi Place has served as a public educator for over 25 years. Prior to becoming a school administrator, she was a Nationally Board-Certified English teacher. As an administrator, she has experience leading in traditional high school and middle school settings as well as alternative education. She holds her Applied Educational Neuroscience certification from Butler University and is currently pursuing her Neurosequential Model in Education training led by Dr. Bruce Perry. She has published a Quick Reference Guide with ASCD, Supporting Emotional Regulation in the Classroom. Support the show

Please join us for “Neurodiversity and the Myth of Normal” with Pam Collins from Neurodivergent by Nature. Pam Collins is a late-identified neurodivergent parent to two amazing multiply neurodivergent adult sons. She provides Neurodiverse-Affirming parent coaching, consulting, and education services to families and community partners and has been supporting families for over 25 years in British Columbia and outside of Canada. She is a volunteer for the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint. She is passionate about the most current research in psychology, especially related to neurodivergence (Autism, PDA, ADHD) and neuroscience (Trauma, anxiety, and depression). She works to share information with others so they can be informed to make decisions, experience joy, and be hopeful.Support the show

Dr. Lori Desautels has been an Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016, where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. She was also an Assistant Professor at Marian University in Indianapolis for eight years, where she founded the Educational Neuroscience Symposium. Currently, the Symposium is in its 10th year and is sponsored by Butler University College of Education. Through these conferences and symposiums, educators, parents, and the community learn deeply about how adversity, trauma, and resiliency impact the developing nervous system, helping our students to feel a sense of autonomy and purpose along with social, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Because of her work, Dr. Desautels has been able to attract the foremost experts in the fields of developmental, relational, and social neurosciences, which significantly grow the conference each year.Dr. Dustin Springer has been an educator for 27 years and is currently an elementary school principal in Kansas.  Additionally, he serves alongside Dr. Lori, Angie Zara, and Rob Beltz as affiliate faculty at Butler University in the Applied Educational Neuroscience certification program and as a consultant for Revelations in Education.  Dr. Springer is married with three children and actively pursues any opportunity to watch live music to bring calm to his nervous system.Crystal Williams is a 7th-grade Social Studies teacher at Belzer Middle School. She began at Belzer in the Alternative to Instruction classroom in 2015 as an Instructional Assistant (IA). While as an IA, she returned to school to obtain her Master's in Education.  She has obtained the Applied Educational Neuroscience Framework Certification program with Dr. Lori Desautels.  Crystal has had the pleasure of presenting at the Lawerence Learning Summit, Lawrence Advance Academy, and the Butler Neuroscience Symposium; Crystal is on a mission to help adults and children become aware of themselves through Educational Neuroscience.  She aims to teach others how to integrate educational neuroscience in the classroom.Born and raised in the heart of Washington, DC, Angelina Zara found her passion in education in 2015, serving students and caregivers in her hometown. As an elementary school teacher in a Title 1, full-inclusion classroom, Angie learned early on about the power of research-based, trauma-informed strategies, and her philosophy was forever changed. She has first-hand experience of the impact of trauma-informed education and the direct correlation to powerful relationships and increased student achievement in diverse learning communities. Angie completed Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification from Butler University in 2021, and has had the privilege to work closely with Dr Lori Desautels. These collaborations include designing and incorporating various applications within her Applied Educational Neuroscience (AEN) Framework.  Robert Beltz is a dedicated educator and consultant based in Oakland County, Michigan, and he also teaches the graduate Applied Educational Neuroscience program at Butler University. With an extensive background that spans over 20 years in the field of education, Robert has served in various roles as a teacher, ELD specialist, and trauma-responsive coach. He holds multiple certifications in areas such as Trauma-Responsiveness, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Applied Educational Neuroscience, and English as a Second Language (ESL). His primary focus is on enhancing social-emotional learning and promoting brain development, specifically for students who have been impacted by trauma.  Support the show

Please join us for “Making Sense of a Chaotic World: A Discussion with Professor Andrew McDonnell.”Professor Andrew McDonnell BSc., MSc., PhD. is a Consultant Clinical Psychologist to and Director of Studio III Clinical Services; Director, clinical consultant and Team Leader to Studio III Training; formerly worked as a Clinical Psychologist in the NHS until 2002 as the manager of a service. Visiting Professor of Autism Studies at Birmingham City University. Andrew has a particular interest in the design of community settings for people who present a challenge. He has extensive experience of working with service users with a learning disability and/or Autism who self-harm.Support the show

Please join us for “The Importance of Neurodiversity-Affirming Approaches in Trauma-Informed Models of Care” with Trisha Thompson.Trisha Thompson is a late-diagnosed AuDHD Early Childhood Education Consultant and parent to an Autistic child. She has been working in the field of ECE for almost 10 years. Prior to becoming a consultant, she worked in various teaching and leadership roles. She has a Master of Science in General Psychology (non-licensure) and is currently working towards a certification in Applied Educational Neuroscience. Trisha is passionate about helping others in the field understand that neurodiversity-affirming practice is an integral part of developmentally appropriate, anti-bias, and trauma-informed practice. Support the show

Please join us for “The Truth About ABA: The Most Popular Autism Therapy in the US and Canada” with Anne Borden King.Anne Borden King is a Toronto-based podcaster, writer and human rights advocate. Her work has appeared in the New York Times, Healthy Debate and the Thinking Person's Guide to Autism, among other publications. She is the host of Noncompliant, a popular podcast about neurodiversity. Her Substack is entitled The Children Do Not Consent.A co-founder of Autistics for Autistics, the Canadian autistic self-advocacy organization, Anne has presented before the United Nations and the Canadian Senate among others, about autism policy. She is the founder of The Autistic Health Access Project, which educates medical students and clinicians about making health care accessible for autistic patients. Her upcoming book, The Children Do Not Consent: The Search for Autism's “Cure”—and the kids who pay the Cost, will be published in 2025.Support the Show.

Please join us for “Your Child's Point of View: A New Book from Kelsie Olds, the OccuPlaytional Therapist.”Kelsie Olds, "The Occuplaytional Therapist", shares passionately every day online with thousands of parents, teachers, professionals--and adults simply seeking to heal childhood wounds in their own selves--about the healing and power in play as the core meaningful occupation that underlies childhood. Kelsie has most recently worked as an occupational therapist on an Air Force Base in England which gave them a unique perspective on both the US and UK systems of healthcare and education that intersect and affect the children they work with every day. Currently, Kelsie is working full-time in online advocacy, traveling, consulting, and lecturing.Support the Show.

Please join us for “The Child Catcher: An Interview with Andrew Bridge About his Upcoming Book” Andrew Bridge spent 11 years in Los Angeles County foster care. After aging out, he attended Wesleyan University, then graduated from Harvard Law School and was awarded a Fulbright Fellowship. He began his legal career representing children against the State of Alabama, where his work resulted in the closure of one of the country's most notorious psychiatric institutions, the Eufaula Adolescent Center. Returning to Los Angeles, he became CEO of The Alliance for Children's Rights, representing children in the foster care system where he grew up. Andrew is the co-founder of National Adoption Day and New Village Girls Academy for pregnant and parenting teens. His memoir Hope's Boy was a New York Times bestseller and Washington Post Best Book of the Year. Most recently, he was a member of the executive management team for Illinois DCFS, and with Arizona as his home, he now serves on the Arizona Foster Care Review Board. His second book about that fight against Alabama, The Child Catcher, will be released in September. You can find information on The Child Catcher here: https://www.andrewbridgeauthor.com/ Support the Show.

Please join us for “What's New at the Attachment and Trauma Network: An Interview with Ginger Healy and Julie Beem.”Ginger Healy MSW, LCSW started her career as a child abuse investigator, hospital social worker, and school therapist. She spent 15 years as the social service supervisor at an international adoption agency where she learned about developmental trauma and attachment needs in children. She is currently a clinical social worker and the director of programs at the Attachment & Trauma Network. She co-anchors the podcast “Regulated and Relational” with Julie Beem, executive director of ATN. Ginger speaks and teaches across the nation on trauma-informed schools and therapeutic parenting. Ginger is the author of Regulation and Co-Regulation: Accessible Neuroscience that Brings Calm into the Classroom, and she is also the author of the accompanying workbook that aims to reach beyond the classroom for caregivers and child-serving professionals. Her third book Managing Big Emotions: Identifying Triggers, Developing Coping Strategies, and Communicating Effectively releasing in October 2024.Julie Beem has been the Executive Director of the Attachment & Trauma Network since 2009 and an active member and volunteer since 2005. Julie lives in the Atlanta area and is the mom to four and grandmother to 3. Her youngest daughter, adopted internationally over 25 years ago was the reason she found support and education from the other parents at ATN.Under Julie's leadership, ATN has grown to reach families, schools and communities around the world. In 2016 ATN was given an Angel in Adoption award to honor the organization's contributions to adoptive families across the US. And in 2014 the Creating Trauma-Sensitive Schools program was created. Julie is a frequent speaker at adoption/foster parenting conferences and education events focused on early childhood trauma.Julie's educational background includes a BS in Secondary Education (English/Speech/Theatre) and an MBA with emphasis on Professional Services Marketing. Her true passion is making life easier for children impacted by trauma and the families who love them. Paying it forward has become the cornerstone of Julie's work through ATN.When not immersed in the daily tasks of a growing non-profit, Julie enjoys traveling with her husband, watching her daughter in swimming and dressage competitions and playing with the grandbabies. Support the Show.

Please join us for “Sensory Integration: Helping Children with Emotional Regulation” with Heathyr Watson. As a young child, Heathyr always knew she would go into the helping profession, whether it was medicine, teaching, or social work. Heathyr has a bachelor's degree in History Education and a Master's in Social Work. Heathyr is working on licensing so that she can become a clinical social worker. Heathyr hopes to achieve a Ph.D. in the near future. Heathyr has worked in residential since 2017 and as someone who is trained in restraints, she believes there are better ways of handling crisis situations for youth. Heathyr believes that if schools, hospitals, residential, or any place that claims to be a safe spot for children and youth should be just that. Reducing and eliminating seclusion and restraints will build more resilient youth and caregivers in the long run.  In her spare time, Heathyr enjoys reading, researching, playing video games with her husband, and taking the most random picture of her pets that she can.Support the Show.

Please join us for “Changing Systems: A Conversation with Jeff Spitzer-Resnick, an Experienced Civil Rights, Disability, and Education Attorney.”Jeff Spitzer-Resnick, is a nationally recognized attorney with thirty-eight years of experience in the fields of civil rights, disability and education law. He currently owns and operates Systems Change Consulting, a consulting and training law firm providing local, statewide, and national consulting and training for individuals, non-profits, and public entities. His focus is on making progressive systems change in the areas of civil rights, disability rights, general and special education, and combating abuse and neglect of vulnerable populations. He has been working on eliminating the inappropriate use of seclusion and restraint on children in school for nearly three decades.Support the Show.

Please join us for “A Unique Program Helping Kids Find the Pathways to Success: An Interview with Dr. Tania DuBeau.”Tania DuBeau has worked for The Pathways Schools since 1988 and is now finishing her 36th school year. She began as one of the social workers at the school and moved into various administrative positions, including principal of one of the schools. Tania became CEO/Executive Director in 2014. She has her LCSW-C, is a Certified Special Education Teacher and Administrator, and has her Ph.D. in Human Development from the University of Maryland College Park. She is actively involved in MANSEF - Maryland Association of Nonpublic Special Education Facilities during her years in special education at Pathways. This is including several years on the board and as board president. She was instrumental in keeping the use of restraints to a minimum throughout the years at Pathways and in moving to no physical restraints policy in the past 7 years. Pathways has never implemented the use of seclusion.Support the Show.

Please join us for “Becoming a Trauma-informed Restorative Educator: Practical Skills to Change Culture and Behavior” with Joe Brummer and Margaret Thorsborne.Joe Brummer is a trauma survivor. Having lived through early exposure to violence, child abuse and neglect, and two violent anti-LGBTQ hate crimes, he turned his healing journey into a career in peacebuilding, restorative justice, and consulting in trauma-informed education. He supports schools and youth justice institutions internationally using a trauma-informed restorative lens to create supportive human-centered environments.Joe is a member of the adjunct faculty at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace, teaching the Peacebuilding Skills: Dialogue, Trauma & Restorative Justice course. Joe has appeared on dozens of podcasts and webinars and presented at national and international conferences. Joe has completed the certification course in Dr. Bruce Perry's Neurosequential Model in Education and is a member of the Attachment and Trauma Network's Training Collaborative.Margaret Thorsborne, is an author, trainer and facilitator of Restorative Practice with a background in education and counselling. She is a pioneer of Restorative Practice in schools in Australia and New Zealand in the mid-late 90's, and the UK in the early 2000's. She has since trained restorative practitioners and change makers in education, workplaces, community, police and justice sectors across Australia, Asia, New Zealand, UK, USA and Canada. She remains involved in this important transformation in schools, particularly around whole school implementation of trauma-informed, relational approaches and culture change. Marg has been awarded an Order of Australia medal for her contribution to education, and a Lifetime Achievement award from NACRJ in USA.Support the Show.

Please join us for “Navigating PDA in America: An Interview with Diane Gould about Her New Book”Diane Gould is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes in serving autistic individuals. As the Executive Director and Founder of PDA North America, she founded the annual PDA North America conference held in Chicago which has changed the lives of hundreds of PDA families.Currently, Diane has a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, where she serves neurodivergent children, adults, and their families. Over the last 40-plus years, she has worked for both private agencies and school systems. Diane was the Childhood Disability and Family Support Specialist for the Jewish Children's Bureau for over a decade. She created many different types of programs and support groups, family camps, and parent education. She also established inclusion consultation and home visiting programs. She also has worked for two special education cooperatives which resulted in working in 14 schools during her career.  She served on the Professional Advisory Board of the Autism Society of Illinois for many years. Diane also facilitates a program to improve relationship skills for teens and adults.She has served as a consultant and guest lecturer for many area school districts, parent associations, and private agencies. Diane provides assessments and consultations to families and school districts and frequently attends school meetings.  Diane has always been interested in human behavior and works with individuals, parents, and schools to create support plans that increase emotional regulation. She has been vocal with her concerns that our commonly used practices increase dysregulation and make behavioral challenges worse. She fights against punitive practices including seclusion, restraint, suspension, and expulsion. It was the understanding of behavior and support in the PDA literature that first drew her to learn more about PDA. And learning about PDA, led her to begin the new PDA movement in North America. Diane formed PDA North America at the first American PDA conference in March 2020. She has written a book with Ruth Fidler on Navigating PDA in America which will be published in June 2024. She is making it part of her life's mission to gain more awareness and understanding of PDA in North America through this non-profit organization.Support the Show.

Please join us for “Offering Support to Caregivers and Children During a Challenging Moment” with Nancy L. Weaver, PhD. MPH.Dr. Weaver has a keen interest in promoting emotional health and working with schools and agencies to nurture the growth of all kids and adults using strength-based methods. She consults in the areas of messaging, community and team engagement, teacher training, strategic planning, and program design and evaluation. Dr. Weaver is also a performer and improvisational theater coach, and she uses tools from applied improv to strengthen collaboration and innovation in work settings.As a tenured, full professor of Behavioral Science at Saint Louis University, her research has been funded by the National Institutes of Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention among others, and has led to the widespread dissemination of effective parenting programs. Most recently, she launched Support Over Silence (supportoversilence.com) to provide bystander training to support parents and children struggling in public. Dr. Weaver is Co-director of the Community Engagement Core of the Center for Innovation in Child Maltreatment at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri.Using a systems lens, Dr. Weaver grounds her research, teaching, and practice in the rigor of the scientific approach, the art of storytelling, and the importance of connection across people and sectors.Support the Show.

Please join us for “An Interview with Antwan Morris: Moving Beyond Incarceration to Ending the School-to-Prison Pipeline.”Antwan Morris lived the stereotypical lifestyle of a young black male growing up in the inner city. By 14, he'd essentially dropped out of school, and by 17, he was incarcerated. With 20+ years of hard work, advocating, healing, and public speaking, he changed his path and has dedicated his life to helping today's youth heal from their traumas and create the lives they desire.Support the Show.

Please join us for “The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Therapeutic Listening System: A Journey to Better Nervous System State Regulation” with Jennifer Abbanat, C-TSS, EXA-CE, SSP Provider. Jennifer is a parenting coach, Expressive Arts Educator, IEP advocate, Safe and Sound Protocol Provider, and trauma-informed consultant who uses neuro-affirming and trauma-informed approaches to empower families to make the most informed decisions that support their child's unique needs.   Jennifer has additional training in child development, including The Mehrit Centre ECE certificate program, a Certificate in Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB), and trauma-informed expressive arts approaches.  Jennifer has a Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies from the Trauma Research Foundation with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, has completed hundreds of hours of PD in areas of DIR Floortime, attachment theory, polyvagal theory, neuroscience, inclusive education, and is a graduate of the UC Davis LEND program for Leadership in Neurodevelopmental Education.  Jennifer is a volunteer for the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint and is an advocate to educate on the dangers of these practices and supporting legislation to protect students. Jennifer started her own advocacy and consulting business, Crow's Nest Advocacy & Consulting, where she provides a variety of services to support families through Expressive Arts Education, Safe and Sound Protocol therapeutic listening and individual and group parenting sessions to support the adults in the parent/child dyad. Jennifer has written several articles and blogs for organizations such as AASR and The Mehrit-Centre.  She is a founding member of a local organization, Yolo Neurodiverse Network (YNN), with 3 other parents with a mission to develop a culture of belonging and appreciation for neurodiversity by increasing community understanding, acceptance and engagement.  “Connecting individuals/ Connecting Caregivers / Connecting Communities” is what YNN hopes to bring. As an ND person herself, she is also a mom to three neurodivergent children, one of whom experienced early developmental trauma and is also autistic.  Jennifer believes in the value of lived experience and that we must learn to meet children where they are, not where we think they should be. This shift starts a new path for any family to be able to experience growth, balance, and joy as individuals and as a whole relational system.  The first step in this shift is curiosity.  Curiosity leads to the connection that all humans need. See a child differently, see a different child- Dr. Stuart Shanker,  PhD. Support the Show.

Author Katie Pagnotta joins us to talk about: "Brain and Body-Aligned Responsive Systems of Excellence.”Katie Pagnotta is a licensed clinical mental health counselor, functional success educational consultant, parent coach, and author. She is also the creator of the Brain- and Body-Aligned Responsive Systems (BBARS) of Excellence framework. She guides educators, administrators, and school staff in strengths-based approaches that leverage the human design and empower the development of the necessary mindsets and habits that lead to re-envisioned success, success balanced with wellness and goal attainment. Katie's recently published book, Empowered by the Human Design: Utilizing the BBARS of Excellence Framework to Foster Student and Educator Success, includes interview segments from 18 experts within the fields of education, psychology, and neuroscience. The book is a work of collective wisdom grounded in Polyvagal Theory and synthesized in a user-friendly way to facilitate practical application for educators. Its reviewers have called it, “a powerful and practical new model for regulation and resilience”, “required reading for all educators”, “a gift to the field”, and “a game-changer”. Throughout the book, Katie combines the wisdom of her interviewees with her own research as well as her years of experience as a former K-12 NH public school counselor. During her time as a school counselor, Katie was witness to a pattern in which educators were working passionately, and students were doing the best they could with the skills and support they had. And yet, the educator attrition rate, as well as the youth mental health crisis, were continuing to be on the rise. Knowing that when educators and school systems as a whole are given the right tools, they can provide fertile soil to nurture the environments, relationships, and supports necessary for students to thrive, Katie left her role as a school counselor to become an educational consultant who provides these tools through the BBARS of Excellence framework.Support the Show.

Please join us for “What Toddler AAC Taught Me About Regulation and Nervous System Supports” with Cass Griffin Bennett.Cass Griffin Bennett is an autistic and ADHD self-advocate and parent of multiple young autistic children. Cass is passionate about all things equity, early access to robust high-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and anti-behaviorism harm reduction. Her guiding goal in parenting is to raise her children to be their own best self-advocates. Cass has a career background in professional services business development and a degree in Psychology from Smith CollegeSupport the Show.

Please join us for “Disproportionate School Brutality Upon Black Children” with Nicole Tuchinda.Nicole Tuchinda, JD, MD, LLM is a special education attorney, Assistant Professor, and Director of the Health Law Program at Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. She writes about the need to make education trauma-informed and attachment-driven, and she co-founded a medical-legal partnership clinic at Georgetown University Law Center (GULC). She has an LL.M from GULC and the University of the District of Columbia David A. Clarke School of Law; an M.D. from The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; and a J.D. from George Washington University Law School.Support the show

Please join us for "Educator Well Being: Discussing the Current Conditions of Stress Response in Education" with Angelina Zara.Born and raised in the heart of Washington, DC, Angie found her passion in education in 2015, serving students and caregivers in her hometown. As an elementary school teacher in a Title 1, full-inclusion classroom, Angie learned early on about the power of research-based, trauma-informed strategies, and her philosophy was forever changed. She has first-hand experience of the impact of trauma-informed education and the direct correlation to powerful relationships and increased student achievement in diverse learning communities.Through what Angie refers to as “walking the walk”, she pioneered the vision and creation of the brand new position of Social Emotional Learning Specialist in her elementary school. Currently serving in this position, Angie provides professional development, classroom modeling, and coaching to educators on trauma-informed practices and strategies to promote awareness and relational safety for all in the classroom and school community. After accomplishing this role in its inaugural year, Angie is proud to say that it has been created across the entire local educational agency in the middle school and high school setting. This only further fuels the fire that this work must be shared widely and authentically.Angie completed Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification from Butler University in 2021, and has had the privilege to work closely with Dr Lori Desautels. These collaborations include designing and incorporating various applications within her Applied Educational Neuroscience (AEN) Framework. These have focused on wellness practices for the educator nervous system and intentionally incorporating equity within the AEN Pillars. In addition to national presenting and working full time at her school, Angie serves as an adjunct faculty for Dr. Desautels' Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification Program and consults with the Trauma Informed Educators Network under Mathew Portell. In 2023, Angie also launched her LLC alongside her business partner, Nicole Keler, entitled "LiveWellEd". This LLC provides advocacy and education coaching to caregivers and parents of neurodiverse students to empower parents from a strength-based approach.Support the show

Celebrating 5 Incredible Years: A Live Interview with Guy Stephens on the Past, Present, and Future of the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint Join us for a unique event for the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint (AASR) as we present a Live, in-person interview with Guy Stephens, the visionary Founder and Director of AASR, that promises to be both heartwarming and enlightening, in celebration of AASR's 5th Anniversary.  For years, you've followed Guy and AASR's journey, supported our initiatives, and contributed to our live interviews, making our advocacy resonate across borders. This live interview will not only highlight the achievements and challenges of our collective journey, but will also offer a unique, personal perspective on the mission that has united us all. It's an opportunity for our community, volunteers, and professionals who have been an integral part of AASR to come together, share insights, and reinforce our commitment to a cause that impacts lives every day.We invite you to be a part of this inspiring event as we delve into discussions that will include reflections on our past, insights into our ongoing projects, and visions for the future of our advocacy. Whether you've been with Guy Stephens and AASR from the start or are just learning about our cause, your presence will make this occasion all the more meaningful. Tune in live to be moved, motivated, and reminded of the powerful difference we can make when we stand together against the use of seclusion and restraint. Don't miss out on this significant occasion that marks a new chapter in our journey towards a safer, more compassionate world.Support the show

Please join us for “How Neuroscience and a Mother's Love Led to the Creation of CapeAble® Weighted Products” with Marna Pacheco.Marna Pacheco is the founder of CapeAble® Weighted Products and inventor of SmartWeight® Technology proudly manufactured in the USA. Marna embodies the saying: “Necessity is the mother of invention.” To help her adopted daughter with significant neurological and developmental early childhood trauma, Marna immersed herself in the latest research in neuroscience to invent SmartWeight® Technology, which offers a better approach to felt safety and effective weighted therapy, disrupting the industry, and changing lives. It all started with a Weighted Cape and continues to be fueled by her passion for helping others know they have value and deserve to reach their full capabilities. Learn more at www.CapeAble.com.Support the show

Please join us for “Our Story - From Suffering to Hope and on to Flourishing. Strategic Self-regulation, Co-regulation, and Coproduction: Leadership Lessons from My Brother” with Jamie Emberson.Jamie possesses extensive years of both lived and professional expertise across diverse roles in healthcare, social care, and wellbeing. His career has encompassed positions such as Care Worker, Nurse, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Nurse Tutor, Companies Director, Departmental Directorship, Consultant, and Performance Coach. Jamie's personal values and practices have been shaped by his own life experiences, including an early memory at age 5 of his brother Garry and his peers referring to themselves as "Freedom Fighters" while detained in secure facilities. Later in Jamie's life, he found out the meaning of this.Throughout his lifelong career, Jamie has focused on leadership, development, and systemic/organizational approaches, resulting in notable outcomes like reducing or eliminating restrictive practices and enhancing people's quality of life and well-being. His current passion revolves around positive psychology interventions and strengths-based approaches, which he applies to enhancing the well-being of others. Jamie is particularly interested in aiding those suffering from trauma and stress.Outside of his professional pursuits, Jamie is a father to Ollie, who also works in the wellbeing field. He shares his life with his dog Hendrix, and nurtures a parcel of ancient woodland to promote biodiversity. Nature holds a special place in his heart, and he has explored mountains in both the UK and the Indian Himalayas. Jamie's culinary interests lean towards Asian cuisine, and he finds joy in cooking.Support the show

Please join us for “The Why Toolkit: A New Tool to Better Understand and Support All Students” with Connie Persike, M.S., CCC/SLP Connie Persike, M.S., CCC/SLP, is a highly experienced Speech-Language Pathologist and Educational Consultant. She has 20+ years of experience in educational settings and holds a certificate in instructional coaching, positive education, and applied educational neuroscience. She served as a member of the multi-state work group to help develop the Common Core Essential Elements for English Language Arts. Connie is a published writer for Autism Parenting Magazine and writes for Exceptional Needs Today. She created an innovative process to assess student behavior, which deviates from the traditional behaviorism approach and aligns with current relational and neuroscience while maintaining a trauma-sensitive and neurodiversity approach. Connie works from the guiding mission that Connection + Collaboration = Endless Possibilities.Support the show

Please join us for “Opposition Isn't Always Defiance: A Brief Introduction to the PDA Profile of Autism” with Courtney Hart.Courtney Hart, LCSW-C, RYT 500, RCYT, founded Healing Hart Wellness in 2018, a pediatric mental health and wellness practice, where she and her team, and their two therapy dogs, specialize in supporting anxious ADHDers and Autistic families through parent consultation, ADHD/Autism assessments, individual therapy, and interest-based social groups. In addition to her work at Healing Hart Wellness, Courtney also runs Therefore I Learn, offering children's yoga teacher training and mindfulness training for educators. When Courtney isn't working, you can find her starting random projects at home, playing fetch with her dogs, scouring the internet to research topics of interest, reading, playing video games, or listening to music.Support the show

Please join us for “Lessons Learned from Working with Neurodivergent Learners: An Interview with Zach Morris.”Zach Morris M.Ed. is an advocate for learning and personal agency. His work aims to help individuals, families, and schools build structures that honor autonomy, celebrate strengths and interests, and prioritize a sense of safety and connection. With a focus on trauma and neurodiversity, Zach offers a lens into the psychophysiological experiences we can have as humans, and he offers support strategies for helping ourselves and our children learn, heal, and grow. Support the show

Learn about the 5th Annual PDA North America Conference with Diane Gould.Join us to learn more about the 5th annual PDA North America Conference on March 6 & 7 (virtual), and March 7 & 8 (in person). The event will include some incredible experts, including keynote speaker – Linda K. Murphy, MS, CCC-SLP and author of Declarative Language Handbook and Co-Regulation Handbook. Other experts & speakers include Diane Gould, Founder of PDA North America, Ruth Fidler, Education Consultant and author; Sally Cat, author of PDA by PDAers, Brook Madera of No Pressure PDA; Zach Morris, Education Consultant for PDAers; Sandra McConnell, PDA Certified Trainer & Parent Consultant, PJ Starling – adult PDAer and PDANA Board Member, and Colleen Hanson speaking on Polyvagal Theory.Support the show