Podcasts about Special needs

The four-lane Great Highway used to run along the Pacific Ocean on the west side of San Francisco, where it was at risk of erosion from sea level rise. Now it's been transformed into a park where visitors can bike, walk, skate, and play next to the water. Also, for people with developmental or physical disabilities, growing plants in a garden may offer personal growth opportunities that unlock new possibilities outside of the garden too. An avid gardener and occupational therapist speaks about her book Nurturing Nature: A Guide to Gardening for Special Needs. And as the first hints of fall come to the northern U.S., many of us are heading out for the autumn tradition of apple picking. The fascinating and. complex science and history behind the iconic apple. --- You can help support our free public radio show and podcast, for free, by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. It's one of the best ways to help other listeners find Living on Earth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a special needs mom, you can be incredibly capable and still constantly second-guess yourself, overthink, seek reassurance, worry about what other people think, or feel like you should be handling things better.In this episode, we'll talk about what confidence actually is, the signs that you may be lacking confidence, and why building confidence is so important when you're raising a child with disabilities.In this episode, you'll learn:What confidence really meansWhy perfectionism, people-pleasing, overthinking, and self-doubt can be connected to confidenceWhy confidence matters so much for special needs momsHow confidence can change the way you navigate your life, your parenting, and the challenges that come with raising a child with disabilitiesThis is Part One of a two-part conversation about confidence. In the next episode, we'll talk about how to actually rebuild self-trust and become more confident.

If you have 5 minutes, I honestly think this might be one of the most impactful things you can do for yourself.Just 5 minutes of writing.Journaling can help you get thoughts out of your head, process emotions, see situations more clearly, and notice patterns you might not see when you're just trying to push through your day.And when you're a special needs mom carrying approximately 47,000 thoughts at any given moment?

✨ "It's not about the job or the wages. You have to love it with absolute passion." – Helen PichaHelen Picha manages Liskennett Farm, a groundbreaking equine-assisted therapy center for children and adults with autism and intellectual disabilities in Granagh, County Limerick, Ireland, on the border of Limerick and Cork. She took over as manager two years ago after eleven years working alongside founder David Doyle, and now runs the 80-acre center — home to 23 horses across residential, day, and equine programs — that Rupert calls the cutting edge of best practice in equine-assisted therapy.What sets Liskennett apart is scale paired with radical openness. Every Saturday, the farm runs a booking-free, fee-free open day that draws between 80 and 100 children, no appointment required, no family turned away. Its indoor arena, originally built for riding, has been repurposed entirely into a music, movement, and play space, because the horses and children preferred being outdoors. And many of Liskennett's horses are retired Thoroughbred racehorses, some placed at Cheltenham, brought down from the racing circuit through a careful, months-long retraining process before ever carrying a child.In this conversation, Helen and Rupert trace Liskennett's origin story — from a 2012 Horse Boy demo, a young woman's tragic death, and a €3 million donation to a modern therapy campus — and dig into how the farm actually runs day to day: horse selection and retraining, staff burnout prevention, community integration through an inclusive fox hunt and horse show, and Liskennett's expansion into new satellite centers backed by €6 million in Irish government funding.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome

The UK's Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) system is buckling because of rising demand. One in five children now qualify for some form of SEND support, yet access still depends heavily on postcode and parental intervention. In this episode of the We Society with Will Hutton, join Alice Reeves, Research Grants and Programmes Manager at the Nuffield Foundation, as she unpacks the root causes of the SEND crisis, and what the government's new SEND White Paper proposes to do about it. The Nuffield Foundation is an independent charitable trust with a mission to advance educational opportunity and social well-being. They tackle the UK's biggest social challenges by funding research and guiding decision-makers to improve people's lives. To find out more about the research the Nuffield Foundation has funded when it comes to education go here.  You can read more about the Government's SEND White paper here. This episode is ideal for listeners interested in topical issues, the UK's education system, disability, and institutional change in education.  In the We Society, join acclaimed journalist and Academy of Social Sciences president Will Hutton, as he invites guests from the world of social science to explore the stories behind the news and hear their solutions to society's most pressing problems. In this series social science calls on aspects of business, education, economics, geopolitics, healthcare, human geography and more, exploring their impact on society and the social policy they can inspire. The We Society is for those interested in how social science impacts their world, and how evidence backed research can improve it.Don't want to miss an episode? Follow the show on your favourite podcast platform and you can email us at wesociety@acss.org.uk to tell us who we should be speaking to.The We Society podcast is brought to you by the Academy of Social Sciences in association with the Nuffield Foundation and the Leverhulme Trust.Producer: Emily Uchida FinchAssistant Producer: Emily Gilbert A Whistledown Production for the Academy of Social Sciences

Parenting special needs children (while bringing many blessings) can also feel like entering the ultimate survival challenge with your spouse. Stress is heightened, and grief is often difficult to bear. Todd and Kristin speak about this struggle and how they pulled through some of the most difficult relational challenges and emotional barriers in their marriage. They bring a message of hope for marriages weighed down by the emotional burdens of life and parenting.Receive a copy of the "How to Build a Thriving Marriage as You Care for Children with Disabilities" bundle and an audio download of "Strengthening Your Marriage While Caring for a Child with Special Needs" for your donation of any amount! Plus, receive member-exclusive benefits when you make a recurring gift today. Your monthly support helps families thrive.Get more episode resources Do you have a story or comment on how Focus on the Family impacted you or your family? Leave a message for Jim Daly!If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Share this program with a friend and who knows – maybe they'll come to know the Lord! Get details on how to share this program at www.joniradio.org. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Returning guest Marguerite Lorenz is here to talk about all things trust and estate related. She has a new book, Luck or Control, The Life-Improving Power of Estate Planning,” reflecting on how a rushed, outdated will during the host's husband's terminal cancer diagnosis made planning urgent and life-easing. Lorenz argues estate planning is not about wealth or only death, but about documenting preferences for incapacity, healthcare, and distribution to avoid confusion, family conflict, fraud risks, and costly probate (noting a $46,000 minimum in California for a $1 million estate). They discuss choosing qualified estate-planning attorneys, updating plans, naming multiple healthcare agents, tracking fiduciary actions, avoiding “early inheritance” ambiguity, and real cases involving elder financial abuse, safe deposit boxes, life estates, pet trusts, no-contest clauses, and special needs/public benefits concerns, directing listeners to planforthis.com for a free toolkit.and you need to go and get it!  https://planforthis.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/californiatrustee/Previous episode with Marguerite: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-21-marguerite-c-lorenz-ctfa-clpf-master-trustee/id1530413097?i=10005103724910:58 Why Estate Plans Matter03:14 Cost Versus Probate06:17 Free Toolkit And Hiring Help07:28 Fiduciary Duty Explained08:37 Family Caregiving Gray Areas12:43 Document Everything As Trustee15:31 The Black Box Problem17:52 Choose Your Three People20:35 Agency And End Of Life Choices24:42 Mabel Casino Cautionary Tale27:23 Preventing Inheritance Fights29:46 No Contest Clauses And Spite32:17 Leaving Love Not Destruction33:26 Fairness Between Children34:02 Fairness Can Flip34:37 Needs Based Trusts35:39 Love Not Punishment37:46 Planning for Incapacity41:04 Life Estates and Marriage Myths43:51 Pet Trust Pitfalls46:53 Sign the Documents48:44 Wills and POA Basics50:28 Stop Clever Workarounds52:05 Safe Deposit Box Chaos55:35 Special Needs and Flexibility01:00:34 Fund the Trust and Wrap Up

Finding Joy in the Hard: Friendship and Motherhood Among Special Needs Moms- Part 1 In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, a group of lifelong friends opens up about the joys, challenges, and unexpected moments that come with raising sons with special needs. Through laughter, vulnerability, and shared experiences, they explore what it means to navigate motherhood as their boys grow into young men with diagnoses including autism, ADHD, fragile X, and other unique needs. The conversation highlights the power of friendship and community as these moms reflect on the moments that tested them — from public meltdowns and sensory challenges to “poop patrol,” bathroom adventures, and the everyday surprises that come with caregiving. They share how humor has become a survival skill, helping them find light in difficult seasons and celebrate the small victories that others may never see. The friends also discuss practical strategies that have helped their families thrive, including visual schedules, social stories, sensory regulation techniques, and carefully preparing for new environments. Beyond strategies, they emphasize something even more important: finding “your people” — the community of support that understands the journey and walks alongside you. Throughout the episode, they reflect on faith, gratitude, and the moments when they catch glimpses of their children's joy and individuality. Their friendship has provided emotional strength, encouragement, and a reminder that no mom should have to navigate this path alone. Filled with funny stories, honest conversations, and heartfelt reflections, this episode celebrates the beauty found in the hard moments. Whether you are a special needs parent, a caregiver, or someone supporting a family on this journey, this conversation is a reminder that connection, laughter, and love can carry us through even the most challenging seasons.   Our mission is to uplift the extraordinary voices in the special-needs community. Have a story to share? Fill out this form to be considered for the podcast!  https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9    

In today's conversation, Stephanie Smith, director of the Twilight Hope Ministry and the Special Needs Ministry at Calvary Chapel in Boise, shares how Christians can bring hope, purpose, and the love of Christ to some of the most overlooked members of our communities. From ministering to seniors in care facilities and supporting those facing loneliness, isolation, and end-of-life questions, to helping individuals with special needs grow in faith and find their place in the church, Smith offers practical insights and powerful stories of lives transformed through compassion, friendship, and the gospel. Whether you’re passionate about elder care, disability ministry, Christian service, or building a more welcoming church, this interview will challenge and equip you to see ministry opportunities where others often fail to look.  For more faith-filled, Gospel-centered content, download the Pilgrim Radio app today on Google Play and Apple, or stream at PilgrimRadio.com. 

Since 1954 — during a time when public schools were not required to educate kids with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so many of these kids were institutionalized — a group of parents in Fort Myers came together to create what they called LARC which would work to empower and support young people with disabilities to achieve their full potential. They've continued that mission and grown over the decades. We learn about everything they do and how they've grown with Executive Director, Angela Katz.

Our guest this week is Jeremy Warren of Tulsa, OK a graphic artist, founder of DOSA (Dads On Special Assignment) and fatther of six boys, including one with a rare disease.  Jeremy and his wife, Heidi, have been married for 22 years and are the proud parents of six boys ranging in age from 2 to 18 including, their second oldest, Landon (16) who has a rare disease, which was officially diagnosed just a few years ago as PURA Syndrome and a secondary condition known as P-O-L-G, both of which have resulted in severe neurodevelopmental delays and intellectual disabilities, plus a slew of other side effects.The mission of DOSA is to serve dads of children with special needs by providing tools and resources that equip them to become healthier mentally, physically, and spiritually in order to lead their families well and embrace their role as a dads on special assignment.We also learn about a couple of organizations that Landon has benefited from, including:Little Light HouseOK Family NetworkIt's an uplifting story about a father's commitment to family and service to others, all on this episode of the SFN Dad To Dad Podcast.Show Notes - Phone – (918) 269-1409Email –  jw@dosausa.orgDads On Special Assignment - https://dosausa.org/Special thanks to all those who supported the SFN U.S. Tour, a month-long, 50-state, 60+ stop tour that took place from May 21 to June 21, 2026: to strengthen and grow the Special Fathers Network and distribute 1,000+ complimentary copies of our new book: Dads Raising Children With Special Needs & Disabilities: A Guide For 21st Century Dads. Special Fathers Network –SFN is a dad to dad mentoring program for fathers raising children with special needs. Many of the 900+ SFN Mentor Fathers, who are raising kids with special needs, have said: “I wish there was something like this when we first received our child's diagnosis. I felt so isolated.  There was no one within my family, at work, at church or within my friend group who understood or could relate to what I was going through.”SFN Mentor Fathers share their experiences with younger dads closer to the beginning of their journey raising a child with the same or similar special needs. The SFN Mentor Fathers do NOT offer legal or medical advice, that is what lawyers and doctors do. They simply share their experiences and how they have made the most of challenging situations.Check out the 21CD YouTube Channel with dozens of videos on topics relevant to dads raising children with special needs - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzDFCvQimWNEb158ll6Q4cA/videosPlease support the SFN. Click here to donate: https://21stcenturydads.org/donate/Special Fathers Network: https://21stcenturydads.org/  

✨ "I think the worst thing that people can do is say no." – Nicola HepburnEquine Learning is a therapeutic and alternative education provision based at Wootton Park in Warwickshire, UK, founded by Nicola Hepburn in 2008 as one of the UK's earliest equine-facilitated learning organizations. Today it helps neurodivergent young people and adults with learning difficulties build academic, vocational, and life skills through horses — work that has grown from a small community project into a full alternative education provider funded largely through local authority contracts.Equine Learning's post-16 students earn accredited qualifications entirely through hands-on coursework rather than sit-down exams, spend two to three years working at their own pace, and never number more than six students a day — a boutique model built on trust rather than test scores.In this conversation, Nicola and Rupert dig into what it actually takes to fund and sustain a program like this: how to find and win local authority tenders, the property crises that nearly ended Equine Learning more than once, and the hard lessons about charging for services versus giving them away for free. Nicola also opens up about being homeless at 17 — an experience that shaped her mission to build the safe, inclusive space she needed as a teenager — and shares her master's research on educational trauma, plus her plans for a new wellness retreat program addressing menopause, grief, and midlife transitions.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome

Go to www.joniradio.org today to see pictures of Jareth's precious family --------Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible. Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org. Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

This week Coach Rob answers listener questions covering the details that trip up first-time IRONMAN athletes. What actually goes in your special needs bags on the bike and run course? Should you change kit in transition or race the whole day in a tri suit? What does the final two-week taper look like after your last race simulation? Rob also breaks down aero gains beyond clip-on bars - race wheels, tires, shaved legs - plus the essential spares and tools you need to fix problems yourself on race day, since mechanical support on course is limited. We also hear listener race reports from a first full IRONMAN in Switzerland and a first 70.3 finish at The Lakesman.Got a question or a race story to share? Email help@oxygenaddict.com — Rob reads every one and may feature yours on a future episode.* * * * * * * *SPONSORS* * * * * * * *Thinking about your first Ironman or 70.3 in 2026? At ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Team Oxygenaddict,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ we specialise in helping busy professionals fit high-quality training around demanding jobs and family life. Book an application call today to find out if you'd be a good fit for Team Oxygenaddict here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://team.oxygenaddict.com/consultation-call/ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠* * * * * * * * * * * *⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠precisionfuelandhydration.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Precision Fuel & Hydration help athletes personalise their hydration and fuelling strategies for training and racing. Use the free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fuel & Hydration Planner⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get a personalised race nutrition plan for your next event. And then⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ book a free 20-minute video consultation⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ with a member of the PF&H Athlete Support Team to refine your strategy.Listeners get 15% off their first order of fuel and electrolytes with Precision Fuel & Hydration. Simply use code OXYGEN26 at checkout to claim your 15% discount

Dr. Bobby Elliott returns to the podcast to chat about burnout as it relates to patient and practice management and education. He and Dr. Berg talk through solutions focused on his mantra – “Educate, don't convince.” – that support office culture and patient/family satisfaction and trust. Dr. Elliott shares his tools for identifying work/life imbalance and building connection and investment in one another. Guest Bio: Dr. Bobby Elliott is from Louisville, Kentucky where he graduated from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. His pediatric dental residency was completed at the UNC School of Dentistry and UNC Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill. Dr. Elliott is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and was an Adjunct Clinical Professor at both the University of North Carolina and University of Louisville Schools of Dentistry.  Dr. Elliott lectures throughout the year to other dentists, specialists, dental team members and residents about positive office culture. In his “not so much free time”, he has founded his own pediatric dental consulting business, Pedo Springboard, Inc. to help residents and pediatric dentists successfully start their own practice. He also has co-founded a second consulting business, Pediatric Dental Directions, to help private practitioners establish legacy leadership and a positive work culture.   Dr. Elliott is a recognized authority on the development of creative and innovative office designs for pediatric dental practices and is often called upon to consult with new office construction as well as dental team development and practice. He works with his best friend & partner and 14 rockstar TEAM members and has been in private practice for 28 years in Cary, NC.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Walter Sterling as he discusses the current situation with the IBrain School, how the situation could end and more on WABC.

Join Walter Sterling as he discusses Gen Z troubles, special needs school situation, alternative realities for space travel, and more on WABC.

D-SNPs are offered by private insurance companies (such as UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, and Centene) that contract with both Medicare and your state's Medicaid program. According to CMS data, D-SNP enrollment has grown by more than 150% over the past five years, making it the fastest-growing segment within Medicare Advantage

In this episode, David Warren – Co-Founder and Chairman of Bridgeford Trust Company – sits down with Jeff Llewellyn – Private Client Advisor and Principal at Rockwood Wealth Management – for an important conversation on Special Needs Trusts and the highly specialized planning required to support individuals with disabilities and their families. Drawing on both his professional experience and personal journey, Jeff shares how he built a practice focused on helping families move from overwhelm to action by taking one secure step at a time. David and Jeff explore first-party and third-party Special Needs Trusts, preserving eligibility for needs-based government benefits, and the critical importance of experienced trust administration. They also discuss selecting the right trustee and trust jurisdiction, assembling a collaborative team of experienced professionals, and the planning opportunities available under modern trust laws. Jeff closes by sharing the inspiration behind his forthcoming book and his podcast, Secured Steps, and his mission to provide families with an actionable roadmap for navigating disability planning.

July 29, 2026- New York Focus reporter Benjy Sachs has exposed the woeful staffing levels at oversight boards tasked with monitoring the quality of life for vulnerable New Yorkers in the state's care.

July 29, 2026- After more than a decade, the state has satisfied a legal settlement requiring more than 1,000 New Yorkers with special needs get served in community-based programs. We discuss the resolution with Clarence Sundram, an independent monitor for the settlement.

Alex Lin is back to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Autism Rocks and advocate for Autistic people around the world.     00:00 Opening: Shannon's Moving Adventure & Show Preview 01:28 Meet Alex Linn & Autism Rocks 10th Anniversary Preview 02:07 How to Watch, Interact & Access Premium Content 03:57 All Ghouls Gala 2026 Announcement & Autism Care Today Grants 05:32 Autism Live's Mission and Supporting the Autism Community 08:05 Parenting Stress, Special Needs, and Finding Support 09:49 Shannon Reflects on Her Autism Parenting Journey 13:07 Revisiting IEPs, Assessments & Parental PTSD 16:45 A Message to Autistic Individuals: You Are Not the Stress 18:27 Introducing Alex Linn and the Autism Rocks Legacy 21:02 Autism Rocks 10th Anniversary Concert Details & Featured Performers 29:10 Alex Shares His Bullying Experience and Autism Advocacy Journey 35:45 Expanding Autism Rocks to Taiwan and Changing Autism Stigma 46:08 Universal CityWalk Concert Guide, Logistics & What to Expect 53:15 Performer Lineup, Special Songs & Final Event Information

Legacy Insights is a new podcast series by Providend that explores what it truly takes to plan a meaningful and lasting legacy, beyond just writing a will, or engaging with a corporate trustee.In this episode, Vincent, our Executive Director & Team Lead of Advisory Team, joins Yong Cheng, our Deputy Head of Advisory Team, for a deeply personal conversation about his own legacy planning journey. He shares the difficult yet necessary conversations he has had with his children about caring for their elder brother with special needs, the hopes he has for his family, and the unspoken concerns every parent carries about the future where they are no longer around.Music courtesy of ItsWatR.The host of this episode, Loh Yong Cheng, is the Deputy Head of Advisory at Providend, the first fee-only wealth advisory firm in Southeast Asia and a leading wealth advisory firm in Asia.Did you know that our Providend's Money Wisdom podcast is now available in video format on YouTube? Follow us on our YouTube channel for new episode on Thursday at 8pm.Mentioned in this episode:Subscribe to Our Newsletter Today!If you're interested in getting more of our thought leadership contents, click this link to subscribe to our newsletter today: https://providend.com/#newsletter-subscribe

In this episode of Pray the Word on 2 Samuel 4:4, David Platt illustrates God's grace and mercy toward individuals with special needs.Explore more content from Radical.

Started the week off with word that France has banned social media for under-15 kids, and the Iranians are no longer interested in a ceasefire. Also the Bangladesh prez quits, Yemen Houthis want in on the fighting, Minnesota woman convicted of calling guy the N-word, and a Georgia special-needs bus driver gets years in prison after watching porn on his iPad and masticating with students aboard.

Ms. Brunswig hails from Scottsdale, Arizona for the past three years.  In 2020, Ms. Brunswig was presented with the Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles, with the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award. An accomplished listee, Ms. Brunswig celebrates many years' experience in her professional network, and has been noted for achievements, leadership qualities, and the credentials and successes she has accrued in her field. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process. Now retired, Ms. Brunswig worked for the Washington State Governor's Office in Olympia for five years as an executive assistant before retiring in 1998. Her extensive career in state government included similar roles with the Governor's Office of Health Policy, The Legislative Office of the Department of Labor & Industries, Washington State Department of Health and the State Board of Health. Additionally, Ms. Brunswig served as a Legal Assistant 3 for the Thurston County Prosecutor's Office in Olympia as the Family Support Office Manager and was liaison to the State Office of Support Enforcement. During later years, while living in Mexico, she worked as a manager for a law firm after helping set up the newly formed office with the attorney and his family. Ms. Brunswig notably learned to speak fluent Spanish while living and working in the country. She later served a brief stint as Operations Manager for SeaBreeze Vacation Rentals. To support her government, Ms. Brunswig has been involved in a plethora of positions with various organizations as well. Most notably, she served as a councilwoman, mayor pro-tem  and Mayor of the City of Centralia, Washington. Ms. Brunswig was also active as a staff member of the Governor's Task Force on Higher Education, a member of the Cascadia Mayors Council and, among other roles, a committee member of the campaign to elect Representatives Gary Alexander for the 20th District and Rep. J. Vander Stoep, Washington State House of Representatives. For two years, Ms. Brunswig served as a Governor's Friendship Force Ambassador to South Korea. Other civic activities to Ms. Brunswig's credit have included serving as treasurer of the Lewis County Children with Special Needs and as a speaker on behalf of the Centralia College Citizenship Class. With her late husband, she was a Guarantor and Board Member of the Lewis County Pope's Kids' Club in Centralia, Washington, a respite center providing individualized care for children and young adults with exceptional medical needs. She was a commissioner for the Fountain Hills Planning and Zoning Commission in Fountain Hills, Arizona. Likewise, Ms. Brunswig is also a Diamond life master member of the American Contract Bridge League. After returning to the United States from Mexico, Ms. Brunswig edited three children's books written and published by Attorney Laura G. Bueno. She is currently providing editing services for Attorney Bueno as her book, "Selkirk" is now being made into a movie. Her payment for these services were donated to two of her informally adopted Mexican children for their college fund. She has also edited several books on the topic of bridge, which were authored by Professor Allan DeSerpa, PhD of Tempe, AZ and consulting author in The Samoans chapter of Liz Moulder's book, "Tropical Tales," and W.T. O'Brien's book ""The Arboretum After Midnight." In support of her professional endeavors, Ms. Brunswig was a member and former nominating committee member of the Association of Washington Cities. She was also former president's advisory board member of the National Chamber of Congress and served nationally on the Bylaws Committee of the National Legal Professionals Association. Ms. Brunswig was born in Leone, a village on the southwest coast of Tutuila Island, American Samoa. She came to the U.S. in 1949 and later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Washington State University, studied paralegal studies at Centralia College and general studies at Lower Columbia College, all in Washington, also receiving a diploma from Centralia Police Department's Citizens' Academy in 1996. She has volunteered her services as a counselor to individuals, pro bono for over 20 years. Ms. Brunswig was selected as an Outstanding Young Women in America in 1973 and was named Pledge of the Year from Beta Sigma Pi sorority, and Girl of the Year by Beta Sigma Phi International in 1978. For her work, she was named as Officer of the Year for Washington Association of Legal Secretaries, and the Washington State Legal Secretary of the Year by the Washington State Legal Professionals' Association in 1990. She lists being a Life Member of the Washington State University's Alumni Association and a lifetime Honorary Member of the United States Army Air Forces Ground Observers Corps, a Civil Defense program formed to protect U.S. territory against air attack. She is a lifetime member of Washington State University Alumni Association and an Honorary member of the United States Airforce (USAF) Air Defense Team.

Meet more kids like Luke at a Joni and Friends family retreat! Find out more details at www.joniandfriends.org. -------- Thank you for listening! Your support of Joni and Friends helps make this show possible.     Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Become part of the global movement today at www.joniandfriends.org   Find more encouragement on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.

Sanaa Pharayra runs the Romeo Roadshow, a Southern California-based program that brings miniature horses named Romeo and Ziggy directly into memory care facilities, senior day programs, and hospital rooms for people living with Alzheimer's and dementia.What began as a rescue project for a single abandoned, feral miniature horse has grown into a program now drawing research interest from the University of Southern California and Cal State Channel Islands. Faculty there are studying why repeated visits from Romeo and Ziggy appear to reduce fear and increase engagement in residents, even those who don't consciously remember the horses' earlier visits.Sanaa and Rupert dig into the neuroscience behind why this works, from oxytocin and cortisol to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and compare notes on what it actually takes to train a horse for genuine emotional engagement rather than quiet compliance. They also discuss Sanaa's own Bedouin and Arab-Israeli ancestry, discovered as an adult, and what it might mean for the program's future.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome✨ "I call it the awe factor. That's what I see in these people's faces — they're in awe." – Sanaa Pharayra

In Episode 215 of The Homeschool Show, Amanda talks with Nikki Cooper (specialneeds@nche.com)  about homeschooling children with special needs, offering practical encouragement for families who are just getting started or are looking for additional support. Their conversation covers common questions about IEPs, choosing curriculum, finding community, and giving yourself permission to adjust your approach as your child's needs change. Nikki also shares how families can connect with NCHE's special needs support resources.Melanie also talks with Katherine Marker from the North Carolina Educational Assistance Authority to explain the ESA Plus Scholarship for students with disabilities. They discuss who may qualify, how eligibility is determined through the public school evaluation process, what the application timeline looks like, and how homeschool families can prepare before applying.Helpful Links:  ECAC Parent CenterESA+ OverviewDocumentation Requirements

Host Sue Shilling speaks to Karen Krivit of the Philly Goat project about their free program for individuals with special needs.

Tegan is a former Canadian resident and full-time engineer who now calls Pittsburgh home, where she's a full-time mom of three, always chasing sunshine and finding adventure in everyday family life. Known in the Rare and Mighty (RAM) community for her honest, "no sugarcoating" approach and her thoughtful exploration of special needs theology, Tegan shares the life-changing journey that began when her middle daughter, Eloise, was diagnosed with the rare genetic condition FOXG1 syndrome at just ten months old. In this deeply moving conversation, Tegan opens up about navigating the heartbreak of a late miscarriage, the shock of an unexpected diagnosis, and the difficult questions that challenged her faith. She reflects on how prayer, community, and God's unwavering presence reshaped her understanding of suffering, goodness, and unconditional love. Together, we explore the difference between grieving the future you imagined and finding joy in the life you have, the daily invitation to sacrificial love through caregiving, and how raising a child with special needs has transformed Tegan's relationship with God. She also shares the beautiful story behind naming her youngest son, Boaz, and what redemption has looked like for her family. Whether you're walking through hardship, caring for a loved one with disabilities, or wrestling with faith in difficult seasons, Tegan's honesty, wisdom, and hope will encourage you to discover God's love in unexpected places.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the reason you still don't feel well isn't just your body... but the place you spend the most time?In this episode of Never Been Sicker, Michael Rubino sits down with functional medicine physician Kurt N. Woeller, DO, FMAPS to discuss why environmental exposures, especially mold and mycotoxins, are so often overlooked in medicine. Together, they explore why many patients continue searching for answers while an important piece of the puzzle is never investigated.Dr. Woeller explains why symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, headaches, poor sleep, digestive issues, allergies, and chronic inflammation can persist when environmental exposure isn't addressed. He also shares why testing both the home and the body creates a much clearer picture than either one alone.The conversation covers real patient stories, common mistakes people make when they suspect mold, and why removing ongoing exposure is often one of the most important steps toward recovery.Whether you're struggling with chronic illness, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand how your environment impacts your health, this episode offers practical insight into a topic more physicians are beginning to recognize.-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction00:19 Meet Dr. Kurt Woeller01:08 Why mold is missed in medicine03:19 Biggest mistakes people make after mold exposure05:08 Can hidden mold make you sick?06:43 Why environmental medicine matters08:18 Why you can't heal while ongoing exposure continues09:29 Why testing the body alone isn't enough12:07 Why testing the home alone isn't enough14:06 How combining both tests changes treatment16:14 Why comprehensive testing matters18:17 One camera angle isn't enough20:41 Test, don't guess22:52 How targeted testing can save time and money28:58 Why data still needs clinical guidance29:28 Real patient success story36:01 Why people normalize feeling sick39:08 Common symptoms of mold exposure45:48 Rapid-fire questions48:23 Where to find Dr. Kurt Woeller50:07 Closing thoughts-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this heartfelt episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we have an inspiring conversation with Wendy Ernzen, a dedicated mother, advocate, and host of the podcast *Let's Plant Houses*. Wendy shares her personal journey as a parent of a daughter with autism, shedding light on the unique challenges families face when navigating support systems that often fall short.Wendy opens up about her daughter's diagnosis and the profound impact it had on her life and career. She discusses the importance of advocacy and the need for parents to connect with one another to share resources and experiences. Throughout the episode, listeners will gain insight into the realities of parenting a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including the hurdles of securing appropriate educational and therapeutic support.The conversation delves into the significance of storytelling and lived experiences in fostering empathy and understanding within communities. Wendy emphasizes the need for honest discussions about the challenges faced by families and how these narratives can drive change in support systems.As Wendy reflects on her podcast, she shares her vision for cultivating a community where families feel seen, heard, and supported. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in advocacy, parenting, and the power of shared experiences.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The journey of parenting a child with autism and the impact on family dynamics- Strategies for navigating educational and support systems- The importance of community and connection among parents- How storytelling can foster empathy and drive change- Insights into future trends in support systems for individuals with disabilitiesFor more information on Wendy Ernzen and her podcast, visit letsplanthouses.com and connect with her on LinkedIn.Support the show

✨ "I believe that in our ancestry we were equestrians, and that's why it's connected so hard with my family." – Louis HookFor 35 years, the Compton Cowboys mission has run a self-development program in Compton, California, that leverages horses to help kids grow into upstanding young men and women — serving roughly 30 kids a year. Founding member Louis Hook and HeartMath practitioner Kansas Carradine, who has worked alongside the organization for years, join Rupert Isaacson to talk about the mission's history and how it works today.What started when Louis's sister Maisha Akbar moved to Compton's Richland Farms neighborhood in 1988 has grown into a four-track program covering horsemanship, equine science, farming, and self-development. Kansas brings the science side of the conversation, explaining how heart rate variability and heart coherence research from the HeartMath Institute is being used to help kids and horses regulate together.The conversation ranges from the history of West African cavalry culture and Mansa Musa to the concept of epigenetic and intergenerational trauma, and what Louis calls "Shadow PTSD" in kids growing up in high-violence neighborhoods. It's a wide-ranging discussion about ancestry, the funding challenges facing Black equestrian nonprofits, and why reconnecting to the history of Black horsemanship matters for healing.If you want to support the show, you can do so at Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/LongRideHome

In this episode of A Tale of Two Hygienists, Jessica and Dave welcome Candi Kidd, RDH, BSDH, MEd, to discuss the unique challenges patients with special healthcare needs face when accessing oral healthcare. From medically complex and tube-fed patients to collaborating with caregivers and healthcare teams, Candi shares practical strategies for creating more inclusive, compassionate, and effective dental experiences. This conversation challenges clinicians to rethink accessibility, advocacy, and the future of patient-centered care.   In this episode, we discuss:   Common barriers to oral healthcare for patients with special healthcare needs   Oral health considerations for medically complex and tube-fed patients   Collaborating with caregivers and interdisciplinary healthcare teams   Adapting preventive, therapeutic, and educational approaches   Creating more inclusive and compassionate dental experiences   The role of advocacy in improving access to care   Practical strategies clinicians can implement immediately   Where dental education and healthcare systems can continue to improve   Connect with Candi Kidd:   Email: candicea31@gmail.com Instagram: @the.sunnysister   Connect with the Hosts:   Jessica Atkinson: jatkinson@endeavorb2b.com Dave Torres: dtorres@endeavorb2b.com

LETS PLAY TWO On this new episode of LIVE FROM MY OFFICE it's the rare doubleheader of guests.First up is Josh Soloman from The Empty Pockets band.They are GREAT and we talk about their new album recorded at the legendary Abbey Road studios in London.We also hit the big benefit concert for WILLS PLACE an amazing, inspiring, diner employing Special Needs adults.Then part two features Jared Burton and his dad, Keith.They're back to talk about addiction, recovery, and sober living.They have good news about what NARCAN can do on this special episode. Thanks for listening. SHOW NOTEScochranshow.comtheemptypockets.comSerenity HouseGet the book "Shadows of Sobriety" by Keith Burton on AMAZON Thanks to our sponsor, ABT Electronics. Get $25 off your next purchase of $150 or more by using the promo code COCHRAN2025 online or in person!Watch This Episode on our Live From My Office YouTube ChannelCheck out what I'm doing with my friends at Real American MediaFollow me on Substack.With each new episode, the first three listeners thatemail me“SURVIVE 2025!” will be eligible to win a $25 ABT Giftcard as long as you include your mailing address and that phrase!Don't forget to subscribe to listen to “Live From My Office” wherever you get your podcasts, and e-mail the show with any questions, comments, or plugs for your favorite charity!

Host Dr. Joel Berg speaks with Dr. Chelsea Fosse, Vice President of the AAPD Research & Policy Center (RPC) on the current hot topics in public health and how the RPC is working to make an impact. Dr. Fosse delves into the impacts of federal updates on pediatric dentistry and the organizations advocating for the health of children. She shares a timeline for the anticipated impacts of H.R. 1 to families and how AAPD members and other healthcare professionals can turn to the RPC for support with state-specific questions relating to Medicaid or other legislation. Guest Bio: Chelsea Fosse, DMD, MPH is the Vice President, Research & Policy Center at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). She is boarded in dental public health. Before shifting her career to work in oral health policy research, she worked as a general dentist treating adults with disabilities.   At AAPD, Chelsea leads a team focused on Medicaid policy and program administration, evidence-based dental care, access to high quality and safe dental care, the pediatric dental workforce, and other contemporary issues in oral health, public health, and health policy. She was previously at the American Dental Association (ADA) Health Policy Institute (HPI) where she led policy analysis for issues related to Medicaid and studied the oral health workforce and the industry's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Before dental school, she worked in the Division of Children with Special Needs at the American Academy of Pediatrics. She currently serves as President of the Board of Directors at Well Child Center, a community-based organization offering WIC, dental, and other social and health services in Elgin, IL.   Chelsea received her bachelor's from The University of Texas in 2009, DMD from Rutgers in 2017, and MPH from Columbia University in 2019. She completed a general practice residency at Helen Hayes Hospital in 2018 and a dental public health residency at Jacobi Medical Center in 2020.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hey friend,  Have you ever felt a wave of sadness or loss about your parenting experience that you couldn't explain — and then immediately felt guilty for feeling it? Do you love your kid completely and still sometimes grieve the summer, the milestones, or the parenting experience you thought you'd have? Has scrolling through other families' photos ever left you with a feeling you couldn't quite name? I'm Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you're dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you're not alone. Chronic Illness Moms is a podcast for moms with chronic illness or chronic symptoms who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits that actually work inside a full, demanding life. In this episode, I'm naming the grief that doesn't get a funeral — the loss of the parenting experience you imagined before any diagnosis was part of the picture. This is the heaviest episode of June and one I think a lot of us have been waiting for someone to say out loud. Grief and gratitude can exist at the same time, and this episode gives you permission to feel both.   Part 3: Resources and Links Mentioned 1:1 chronic health coaching: https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Join the free Chronic Health Moms Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Hearthwell Naturals magnesium cream (mentioned for bedtime wind-down): https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals   Related Episodes: 222. Survival Mode Was Never Meant to Be Permanent: The Truth About Chronic Stress and Burnout No One Tells Exhausted Moms 219. Feeling Overwhelmed by Your Child's Emotions? This is Why   Connect with Me: Contact → hello@ashleybraden.com Facebook Page → https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group → https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube → https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube

Have you ever caught yourself thinking This shouldn't be happening. Things arent supposed to be this hard. Once iIfix this, then I'll finally be okay.As special needs moms, it's easy to spend so much of our mental energy fighting reality.We resist the diagnosis.We resist the uncertainty.We resist the lack of control we have over it all. Our brains are wired to treat difficult circumstances as problems that need to be solved. But when those problems are outside of our control—as they so often are in special needs parenting—we end up stuck in a cycle of overwhelm, anxiety, and caregiver burnout.In this episode, I'm sharing one of the most powerful mindset shifts I've ever learned that helps with acceptance. We'll talk about why acceptance is often misunderstood, why your brain naturally resists it, and how practicing acceptance can reduce stress, overwhelm, and emotional exhaustion. You'll learn:Why acceptance is not the same as approval or giving upHow resisting reality creates unnecessary emotional sufferingWhy your circumstances don't have to change before you can experience more peaceA simple way to begin practicing acceptance in your own life this weekIf this episode encouraged you, I'd love for you to leave a rating and review or share it with another special needs mom who could use this reminder today.And if you're ready to stop living in survival mode and start creating more peace (even with all the challenges you face) I'd love to support you inside my coaching program. Go to lowerylifecoaching.com/coaching to learn more

In this episode of This is Yoga Therapy, host Michele Lawrence sits down with Renata Sumar Gaertner, C-IAYT, the director and lead teacher of Yoga for All Abilities, carrying forward her mother's legendary Sonia Sumar Method.Renata began her yoga journey at just three years old and completed her first Hatha training at twelve. Raised alongside her sister, Roberta, who was born with Down Syndrome, Renata witnessed firsthand the profound developmental power of an individualized practice. Bridging her lifelong lineage roots with a degree in Speech Therapy and a postgraduate specialization in Language Disorders, Renata has dedicated her life to making yoga accessible and empowering for individuals with disabilities, neurodiversity, and additional needs.In this conversation, we explore:The Myth of the Standard Template: Shifting away from a "one-size-fits-all" approach to physical alignment and defining what personal alignment truly means for a student's physiological safety and growth.The Neurobiology of Development: The reality of what happens when individuals navigating Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, or autism practice a structured, individualized yoga protocol.Establishing Nervous System Safety: How practitioners and parents can use breath, vocal resonance, and deep attention to build baseline safety for children with severe sensory processing challenges or communication barriers.Moving from Fear to Service: Shifting our mindset out of intimidation when working with complex additional needs and stepping into heart-centered, professional care.ResourcesLearn more about Renata's work & global trainings: Visit SpecialYoga.com to explore Part 1 and Part 2 certification pathways, continuing education modules, and private mentoring support.Support the showConnect with Inner Peace Yoga TherapyEmail us: info@innerpeaceyogatherapy.comWebsiteInstagramFacebook

ITP 150 - Christian's story highlights both the opportunity and the complexity of international teaching. Now based in Singapore, he reflects on a career that began in North Carolina and expanded into leading international schools in Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Singapore. What starts as a conversation about getting into international education quickly becomes a thoughtful look at why teaching abroad remains a hidden pathway for so many educators, even as the world of international schools continues to grow.A major focus of the conversation is learning support in international schools and the uneven reality of inclusive education abroad. Christian shares what it looks like to work in special education overseas, explaining how schools differ in their ability to support students with ADHD, autism, and other neurodiverse learning needs. The discussion also unpacks the important distinction between learning support and language support, while exploring how more schools are being pushed to adapt as student needs become more visible and more widely understood.The episode becomes especially powerful as Christian speaks about life as a single father overseas raising a son with autism. He describes adopting his son in Hong Kong, recognizing early developmental differences, and facing the difficult reality that many international schools still cannot support children with moderate to severe special needs. His work creating a resource list for families searching for more inclusive schools adds a practical and hopeful dimension to the conversation, especially for international teachers with children who may feel their options are limited.-more information-The International Teacher Podcast is a bi-weekly discussion with experts in international education. New Teachers, burned out local teachers, local School Leaders, International school Leadership, current Overseas Teachers, and everyone interested in international schools can benefit from hearing stories and advice about living and teaching overseas.Additional Gems Related to Our Show:Greg's Favorite Video From Living Overseas - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQWKBwzF-hw⁠Signup to be our guest  ⁠https://calendly.com/itpexpat/itp-interview?month=2025-01⁠Our Website⁠ -  ⁠https://www.itpexpat.com/⁠Our FaceBook Group - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/itpexpat⁠⁠JPMint Consulting Website  - ⁠https://www.jpmintconsulting.com/⁠Hannah's Personal IG - https://www.instagram.com/thatexpatfamily?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw=Greg's Personal YouTube Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs1B3Wc0wm6DR_99OS5SyzvuzENc-bBdO⁠Books (on Amazon) By Gregory Lemoine:Stay for the Show (2026) | Greg's first Childrens Picture Book⁠International Teacher Guide: Finding the "Right Fit" 2nd Edition (2025)⁠ | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed.⁠⁠"International Teaching: The Best-kept Secret in Education"⁠⁠ | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed.Apps by Greg:https://apps.apple.com/app/6755244840  1. Who's That? Name & Face Trainer  Nov 21, 2025https://apps.apple.com/app/6756509803   2. Facetag | Memory Trainer   Dec 16, 2025

There’s a question that lives in the back of the mind of nearly every parent raising a child with special needs. It doesn’t announce itself — it just sits there, quiet and heavy. What happens to my child when I am no longer here? For a long time, that question had no good answer. Families navigated a maze of government benefits, legal documents, and financial systems — often alone, guided by well-meaning professionals who didn’t have the depth of specialization this work demands. In 2005, a financial planner from Charlotte decided that wasn’t good enough. Ryan F. Platt founded A Special Needs Plan with one mission: to serve families living with that fear and replace it with clarity, structure, and a road map forward. Today, the firm is an elite, nationally recognized practice serving families across the country. Ryan holds credentials most financial advisors have never heard of — including the Chartered Special Needs Consultant designation — because he believes this community deserves a true specialist. He’s a former president of The Arc of North Carolina, a speaker at national conferences, a published author, and a champion for families who have spent too long facing the impossible alone. Ryan, welcome to The BrandBuilders Podcast.

Emily Loftiss thought she knew what motherhood would look like... until her son Dalton was diagnosed with autism at 2.5 years old. In this deeply honest conversation, Emily shares the emotional journey of raising a nonverbal autistic child, the hardest moments after his diagnosis, how she and her husband have navigated the unknown together, and why she refuses to give up hope. She also opens up about finding joy in the middle of heartbreak, celebrating every small victory, and the advice every parent, whether raising a neurotypical or neurodivergent child, needs to hear. Thank you for supporting our sponsors!BabyGang is presented by Better Help. Sign up and get 10% off at https://BetterHelp.com/BABYGANGSkylight Frames: Go to https://MySkylight.com/BABYGANG for $30 off your 15-inch Calendar.HERS: Ready to reach your goals? Visit https://forhers.com/babygang to get personalized, affordable care that gets you.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Samantha Taylor, a passionate speech language pathologist, entrepreneur, and founder of Olive Speech Therapy. Samantha's journey took an unexpected turn at the age of 20 when she faced the heartbreaking loss of her son. This profound experience ignited her mission to advocate for children with communication challenges and empower families navigating complex systems.Samantha shares her personal story of transformation, detailing how the struggles of being a young mother to a profoundly deaf child propelled her into the field of speech language pathology. She discusses the importance of knowledge, advocacy, and the need for parents to trust their instincts when it comes to their children's health and education. Samantha emphasizes the significance of community support and how her experiences have shaped her approach to helping others.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the challenges parents face in advocating for their children, the founding of Olive Speech Therapy, and the creation of the Empowered Parent Network—a resource designed to provide confidence and support for parents of children with unique needs. Samantha's dedication to her work and her son shines through, reminding us all that every challenge can lead to unexpected opportunities for growth and connection.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The impact of Samantha's personal experiences on her professional journey- Strategies for parents to advocate effectively for their children- The importance of community and shared experiences in parenting- Insights into the Empowered Parent Network and its mission- Tips for navigating the education and healthcare systems with confidenceFor more information on Samantha Taylor and her work, follow her on Instagram at @ParenthoodUnscripted and @OliveSpeechTherapy, and check out her new podcast, *Parenthood Unscripted*, for more empowering conversations.Support the show

On this episode of The Federalist Radio Hour, Ryan Bomberger, co-founder of The Radiance Foundation and Emmy Award-winning creative professional, joins Federalist Senior Elections Correspondent Matt Kittle to share his story as a son spared from abortion and saved by adoption. Bomberger also analyzes how abortion ideology and the death culture that promotes it have infiltrated American institutions. You can find Bomberger's memoir Should Have Been Aborted here. The Federalist Foundation is a nonprofit, and we depend entirely on our listeners and readers — not corporations. If you value fearless, independent journalism, please consider a tax-deductible gift today at TheFederalist.com/donate. Your support keeps us going.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Attorney Whitney Knox Lee. Explains practical estate‑planning strategies—wills, trusts, powers of attorney—and how entrepreneurs, families, and especially parents of disabled children can protect assets, avoid costly probate, and maintain eligibility for critical benefits. The conversation also touches on integrating insurance with estate planning, small‑business contingency planning, and Lee’s personal mission and background in civil rights work. Purpose of the Interview Educate listeners on estate planning as a wealth‑preservation strategy (not just documents)—to reduce court costs, taxes, and confusion for families. Clarify the differences and roles of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, including when each is appropriate and how they work together.] Highlight special considerations for entrepreneurs and families with disabled children or aging relatives, including insurance, operating agreements, and special‑needs planning. Share Lee’s values and practice approach, including culturally responsive service and sustainable advocacy rooted in prior civil‑rights work. Key Takeaways 1) Wills vs. Trusts vs. Powers of Attorney A will is not the plan—it’s just one piece and still goes through probate, which can be slow and expensive; think of a will as a “letter to the judge.] Revocable living trusts can help families bypass probate, reduce delays, and retain more control over how assets are managed after death. Powers of attorney (financial and health) are essential for incapacity scenarios; even 18‑year‑olds heading to college should have them so parents can access information if needed. 2) Why Insurance Belongs in the Plan Life insurance can protect the family’s ability to keep the home by paying off a remaining mortgage or covering living expenses—turning an asset into a sustainable legacy rather than a burden. For entrepreneurs, key‑person insurance can replace income when the owner can’t work, keeping the business afloat. 3) Minimizing Probate Costs and Taxes Probate involves court filings and legal fees; in some states fees scale with estate size (example discussed: percentage‑based fees in other jurisdictions), which can significantly erode wealth passed to heirs. Proper planning reduces those leakages. 4) Special‑Needs and Elder Planning Parents of children on need‑based benefits (e.g., Medicaid) must avoid transfers that jeopardize eligibility; the right trust structures preserve benefits while providing support. Elder law planning anticipates long‑term care costs (nursing home, assisted living, in‑home care) so families don’t have to deplete assets later. 5) Business Continuity for Owners Establish operating agreements and buy‑sell agreements that spell out who runs the business if the principal is incapacitated; pair with business powers of attorney. 6) Values, Audience, and Access Lee intentionally centers Black and Brown women and their families, grounding services in community uplift and transparent referrals to trusted financial pros (no paid referral arrangements). Contact approach: 15‑minute intake, then a four‑meeting process (legacy planning → design → review → signing). Notable Quotes (for pull‑quotes & captions) “Think of a will as a letter to the judge… a will still has to go through probate court. “A trust allows families to bypass probate altogether so they aren’t paying legal fees or leaving things to people who want to challenge the will. “Life insurance is a huge tool—it can help the family pay off the mortgage so they can keep the home and the equity.” “Estate planning is a strategy—not just documents.” “Even 18‑year‑olds should have powers of attorney—parents can’t just call doctors once kids are legal adults.” “I stay in my lane—I’m an attorney. I work closely with trusted financial professionals and make non‑compensated referrals.” “For special‑needs planning, don’t jeopardize need‑based benefits—use the right trust so support continues. “I want to build a sustainable practice that lets me serve my community and rest well, aligned with my family and values.” Quick Action Items (for listeners inspired by the episode) Draft or update POAs (financial and health) for every adult in the household, including college‑age children. Evaluate whether a revocable living trust makes sense to avoid probate and retain post‑death control. For business owners: review operating agreement / buy‑sell, add key‑person insurance, and create a business POA. Families with special‑needs dependents: consult on special‑needs trusts to protect benefits. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Attorney Whitney Knox Lee. Explains practical estate‑planning strategies—wills, trusts, powers of attorney—and how entrepreneurs, families, and especially parents of disabled children can protect assets, avoid costly probate, and maintain eligibility for critical benefits. The conversation also touches on integrating insurance with estate planning, small‑business contingency planning, and Lee’s personal mission and background in civil rights work. Purpose of the Interview Educate listeners on estate planning as a wealth‑preservation strategy (not just documents)—to reduce court costs, taxes, and confusion for families. Clarify the differences and roles of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, including when each is appropriate and how they work together.] Highlight special considerations for entrepreneurs and families with disabled children or aging relatives, including insurance, operating agreements, and special‑needs planning. Share Lee’s values and practice approach, including culturally responsive service and sustainable advocacy rooted in prior civil‑rights work. Key Takeaways 1) Wills vs. Trusts vs. Powers of Attorney A will is not the plan—it’s just one piece and still goes through probate, which can be slow and expensive; think of a will as a “letter to the judge.] Revocable living trusts can help families bypass probate, reduce delays, and retain more control over how assets are managed after death. Powers of attorney (financial and health) are essential for incapacity scenarios; even 18‑year‑olds heading to college should have them so parents can access information if needed. 2) Why Insurance Belongs in the Plan Life insurance can protect the family’s ability to keep the home by paying off a remaining mortgage or covering living expenses—turning an asset into a sustainable legacy rather than a burden. For entrepreneurs, key‑person insurance can replace income when the owner can’t work, keeping the business afloat. 3) Minimizing Probate Costs and Taxes Probate involves court filings and legal fees; in some states fees scale with estate size (example discussed: percentage‑based fees in other jurisdictions), which can significantly erode wealth passed to heirs. Proper planning reduces those leakages. 4) Special‑Needs and Elder Planning Parents of children on need‑based benefits (e.g., Medicaid) must avoid transfers that jeopardize eligibility; the right trust structures preserve benefits while providing support. Elder law planning anticipates long‑term care costs (nursing home, assisted living, in‑home care) so families don’t have to deplete assets later. 5) Business Continuity for Owners Establish operating agreements and buy‑sell agreements that spell out who runs the business if the principal is incapacitated; pair with business powers of attorney. 6) Values, Audience, and Access Lee intentionally centers Black and Brown women and their families, grounding services in community uplift and transparent referrals to trusted financial pros (no paid referral arrangements). Contact approach: 15‑minute intake, then a four‑meeting process (legacy planning → design → review → signing). Notable Quotes (for pull‑quotes & captions) “Think of a will as a letter to the judge… a will still has to go through probate court. “A trust allows families to bypass probate altogether so they aren’t paying legal fees or leaving things to people who want to challenge the will. “Life insurance is a huge tool—it can help the family pay off the mortgage so they can keep the home and the equity.” “Estate planning is a strategy—not just documents.” “Even 18‑year‑olds should have powers of attorney—parents can’t just call doctors once kids are legal adults.” “I stay in my lane—I’m an attorney. I work closely with trusted financial professionals and make non‑compensated referrals.” “For special‑needs planning, don’t jeopardize need‑based benefits—use the right trust so support continues. “I want to build a sustainable practice that lets me serve my community and rest well, aligned with my family and values.” Quick Action Items (for listeners inspired by the episode) Draft or update POAs (financial and health) for every adult in the household, including college‑age children. Evaluate whether a revocable living trust makes sense to avoid probate and retain post‑death control. For business owners: review operating agreement / buy‑sell, add key‑person insurance, and create a business POA. Families with special‑needs dependents: consult on special‑needs trusts to protect benefits. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Attorney Whitney Knox Lee. Explains practical estate‑planning strategies—wills, trusts, powers of attorney—and how entrepreneurs, families, and especially parents of disabled children can protect assets, avoid costly probate, and maintain eligibility for critical benefits. The conversation also touches on integrating insurance with estate planning, small‑business contingency planning, and Lee’s personal mission and background in civil rights work. Purpose of the Interview Educate listeners on estate planning as a wealth‑preservation strategy (not just documents)—to reduce court costs, taxes, and confusion for families. Clarify the differences and roles of wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, including when each is appropriate and how they work together.] Highlight special considerations for entrepreneurs and families with disabled children or aging relatives, including insurance, operating agreements, and special‑needs planning. Share Lee’s values and practice approach, including culturally responsive service and sustainable advocacy rooted in prior civil‑rights work. Key Takeaways 1) Wills vs. Trusts vs. Powers of Attorney A will is not the plan—it’s just one piece and still goes through probate, which can be slow and expensive; think of a will as a “letter to the judge.] Revocable living trusts can help families bypass probate, reduce delays, and retain more control over how assets are managed after death. Powers of attorney (financial and health) are essential for incapacity scenarios; even 18‑year‑olds heading to college should have them so parents can access information if needed. 2) Why Insurance Belongs in the Plan Life insurance can protect the family’s ability to keep the home by paying off a remaining mortgage or covering living expenses—turning an asset into a sustainable legacy rather than a burden. For entrepreneurs, key‑person insurance can replace income when the owner can’t work, keeping the business afloat. 3) Minimizing Probate Costs and Taxes Probate involves court filings and legal fees; in some states fees scale with estate size (example discussed: percentage‑based fees in other jurisdictions), which can significantly erode wealth passed to heirs. Proper planning reduces those leakages. 4) Special‑Needs and Elder Planning Parents of children on need‑based benefits (e.g., Medicaid) must avoid transfers that jeopardize eligibility; the right trust structures preserve benefits while providing support. Elder law planning anticipates long‑term care costs (nursing home, assisted living, in‑home care) so families don’t have to deplete assets later. 5) Business Continuity for Owners Establish operating agreements and buy‑sell agreements that spell out who runs the business if the principal is incapacitated; pair with business powers of attorney. 6) Values, Audience, and Access Lee intentionally centers Black and Brown women and their families, grounding services in community uplift and transparent referrals to trusted financial pros (no paid referral arrangements). Contact approach: 15‑minute intake, then a four‑meeting process (legacy planning → design → review → signing). Notable Quotes (for pull‑quotes & captions) “Think of a will as a letter to the judge… a will still has to go through probate court. “A trust allows families to bypass probate altogether so they aren’t paying legal fees or leaving things to people who want to challenge the will. “Life insurance is a huge tool—it can help the family pay off the mortgage so they can keep the home and the equity.” “Estate planning is a strategy—not just documents.” “Even 18‑year‑olds should have powers of attorney—parents can’t just call doctors once kids are legal adults.” “I stay in my lane—I’m an attorney. I work closely with trusted financial professionals and make non‑compensated referrals.” “For special‑needs planning, don’t jeopardize need‑based benefits—use the right trust so support continues. “I want to build a sustainable practice that lets me serve my community and rest well, aligned with my family and values.” Quick Action Items (for listeners inspired by the episode) Draft or update POAs (financial and health) for every adult in the household, including college‑age children. Evaluate whether a revocable living trust makes sense to avoid probate and retain post‑death control. For business owners: review operating agreement / buy‑sell, add key‑person insurance, and create a business POA. Families with special‑needs dependents: consult on special‑needs trusts to protect benefits. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Washington Wednesday on Ken Paxton's landslide, World Tour on Colombia's presidential election, and a classical school for students with special needs. Plus, Daniel Suhr on Pope Leo XIV's call for moral guardrails, England's annual cheese-rolling race, and the Wednesday morning newsSupport The World and Everything in It today at wng.org/donateAdditional support comes from WatersEdge. Today's investment, tomorrow's thriving churches. 3.25% APY on demand. WatersEdge.com/invest WatersEdge securities are subject to certain risk factors as described in our Offering Circular and are not FDIC or SIPC insured. This is not an offer to sell or solicit securities. WatersEdge offers and sells securities only where authorized; this offering is made solely by our Offering Circular.From Pensacola Theological Seminary... Preparing students to preach God's Word. go.pcci.edu/startseminaryAnd from St. Dunstan's, inviting young men into the building arts and the adventure of holiness on a Blue Ridge Mountains farm... stdunstansacademy.org