Best IEP Writer Podcasts (2024)

1
Building a Classroom Community of Confident Writers with Rob Sanders 16:43

2h ago16:43

16:43

Believe it or not, October is over. It was a busy month for IEP meetings, and the holiday rush is about to begin. In today’s episode, we want to give helpful insights about community building in a classroom through a simple, actionable technique; this conversation will benefit teachers, parents, and administrators–anyone who wants to foster confide…

1
255: All About Trustees: Navigating the Ins & Outs of Special Needs Trust Administration 58:30

6h ago58:30

58:30

Understanding the administration of special needs trusts can make a world of difference for people with disabilities, providing them with financial stability and peace of mind. These trusts—like third-party and first-party trusts—come with specific rules that trustees must follow to ensure the beneficiary can keep accessing essential public benefit…

1
254: Prioritizing Mental Well-being in the Modern Era | Lauren Perna, Writer, Speaker, & Advocate 40:45

12d ago40:45

40:45

For longtime listeners, it’s clear this podcast covers a wide range of topics—from family discussions about kids to conversations on adult disabilities. This conversation focuses on the challenges of balancing health and work while living with a chronic illness. Practices like meditation, journaling, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are power…

1
Education is in Peril with the Implications of Project 2025 17:10

14d ago17:10

17:10

Today’s episode includes a look into the controversial Project 2025 plan, a 900-page roadmap created by far-right think tanks, like The Heritage Foundation. With the elections looming, we are giving our perspectives on some of the alarming implications of this proposal, particularly its potential to dismantle essential educational protections, eras…

1
253: Finding Balance: The Dance of Advocacy & Parenting | Joanne De Simone, Author & Advocate 37:27

13d ago37:27

37:27

Parenting is a rewarding journey filled with love, laughter, and joy. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges. From sleepless nights to tantrums in the grocery store, every parent faces obstacles along the way. But what happens when those challenges are compounded by raising a child with disabilities? In this episode of Parenting I…

1
252: Empowering Parents with Practical Tips for Raising Deaf Kids | Alaine Jacobs, Founder & Advocate 40:30

20d ago40:30

40:30

Parenting a child with hearing loss comes with its own unique challenges and families may find themselves grappling with isolation and communication barriers. In these moments, community support and shared knowledge can make a world of difference. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines welcomes Alaine Jacobs, a passionate advocate f…

1
The Changing Face of College Admissions and Equity with Emily Chase Coleman 23:26

28d ago23:26

23:26

In today’s episode, Vickie and Amanda discuss the evolving landscape of college admissions with Emily Chase Coleman, CEO of HAI Analytics. They explore the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on admissions, highlighting the shift away from standardized testing and the importance of considering diverse factors in admissions decisions. Emily shares insig…

1
251: Breath by Breath: How We Do It | Jessica Fein, Author, Podcast Host, & Speaker 35:32

27d ago35:32

35:32

The journey of caring for a child with disabilities is a tumultuous emotional ride. There are highs celebrating achievements and lows during setbacks. It's important to recognize those feelings and find healthy ways to cope along the way. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines chats with Jessica Fein, author of Breath Taking: A Memo…

1
The US Supreme Court, Affirmative Action, and the Future of Education 16:18

1M ago16:18

16:18

Today’s episode focuses on a Supreme Court case in favor of eliminating affirmative action, which has huge implications in the world of education. In reality, what the Supreme Court does and how they make decisions stems from who the justices are. With every decision, we should evaluate if it aligns with what we believe and what is best for our cou…

1
250: The Sound of Success: Breakthroughs in Music Education & Disability Support| Annie Ray, Annandale High School Orchestra Director, Performing Arts Department Chair, & GRAMMY Winner 27:33

1M ago27:33

27:33

Music has a way of connecting people, transcending language barriers, and healing the soul. The discipline and dedication required to master an instrument can translate into valuable life skills that go beyond the music classroom. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines spoke with Annie Ray, the founder of the Crescendo Orchestra pro…

1
Leading with Empathy in an Inclusive Classroom Environment with Dr. Jessica Werner 26:04

1M ago26:04

26:04

Today’s focus is on accommodating children in the general education classroom to provide a truly inclusive environment. It’s vital for all of us involved in education to understand the WHY of these accommodations with an emphasis on empathy. Join us for a closer look. Dr. Jessica Werner is the founder of Northshore Learning, a team of consultants b…

1
249: Changing the Narrative on Disabilities in Kenyan Society | Thitu Muiruri, Filmmaker, Writer, & Director 36:19

1M ago36:19

36:19

Disability is a topic often surrounded by stigma and misconceptions, particularly within Kenyan communities, where the burden can become a significant financial strain on families. In Kenya, parents of children with disabilities face not only a lack of acceptance and support but also the heavy weight of stigma, which exacerbates their struggles. In…

1
Teaching Inclusion, Acceptance, and Responsibility Through Character Development with Kristin Woodward-Vaassen and Icle Freeland 24:11

2M ago24:11

24:11

Teaching Inclusion, Acceptance, and Responsibility Through Character Development with Kristin Woodward-Vaassen and Icle Freeland Character education can happen in many forms. Today’s episode highlights a unique program that is fun, effective, and quickly growing in popularity. What child doesn’t love taking care of a pet? Join us to hear more from …

1
248: A Guidebook for Thriving Marriages & Sustainable Disability Parenting | Dr. Todd & Kristin Evans, Authors, Speakers, & Disability Parents 43:50

2M ago43:50

43:50

Parenting is a tough job and when you have a child with special needs, the challenges can be even more complex. From advocating for your child in school to finding the right therapy options, there are so many aspects of parenting a child with special needs that require extra care and attention. Amidst these pressures, marriages can face significant…

1
Teaching the Teachers: Strategies for Inclusive Education with Andrew Goff 29:40

2M ago29:40

29:40

Most of the country is off and running into another school year, and it’s a great time to reflect on where we can improve and how we can be more knowledgeable in supporting students and addressing their needs. This episode focuses on training for school staff, district staff, and parents. Today, we share part two of our interview with Andrew Goff. …

1
247: What’s Possible: A Roadmap to Success for Young Adult with Additional Needs | Graham Caldow, Author & Co-Founder of Red Giraffe 39:36

2M ago39:36

39:36

Transition planning from school to adult life is a crucial aspect of ensuring individuals with additional needs have the support and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. With the introduction of the new transition planning IEP form, understanding its purpose and how it benefits those in the transition process is essential. In this episode …

1
ENCORE: Live from the BOOST Conference! 50:15

2M ago50:15

50:15

Today’s episode is a replay of our session at the BOOST Conference from a few months ago. It relates specifically to next week’s conversation, which is the reason we want to air it again. This episode was also featured as an encore episode over the summer. Enjoy! We loved having the opportunity to speak at the BOOST Conference about our podcast, th…

1
246: A Caregiver's Guide to Nurturing Resilience | Michelle Mercier, Business Growth Consultant 47:11

2M ago47:11

47:11

Being a caregiver is a demanding role that requires immense strength, patience, and compassion. Caregivers often face challenges that can be physically, emotionally, and mentally draining. However, being resilient is crucial for caregivers to navigate the ups and downs of their caregiving journey. In this episode, Annette Hines and Michelle Mercier…

1
The Benefits of Instructional Audio Systems for Inclusive Classrooms with Dr. Stephanie Meyer 19:38

2M ago19:38

19:38

Last week’s episode was about central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) and its impacts on a student’s ability to learn. For this episode, we are excited to welcome Dr. Stephanie Meyer to the show. She is an audiologist in the Rio Rancho public schools who will share her perspective about how instructional audio can be more inclusive. Her career …

1
245: IEP vs. 504 Plan: Making the Best Choice For Your Child's Education | April Rehrig, Special Education Advocate and Parent Coach 43:06

2M ago43:06

43:06

Navigating the world of IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) and 504 Plans can be overwhelming for parents and educators alike. Both IEPs and 504 plans provide essential educational support but differ in their goals, services, eligibility, and duration. IEPs offer specialized instruction with specific objectives and progress monitoring from pre…

1
107. Special Announcement 4 Steps to Prep Paraprofessionals, Special Ed Assistants for the Beginning of the School Year 18:54

2M ago18:54

18:54

Hey Special Ed Teacher, *Special Announcement at the end of the episode!* Do you know what to prep your educational aides before the beginning of the school year? What do they need to know before your students step into your classroom? How do you create an inclusive classroom so your staff feels part of the team? Today I’ll be sharing steps to ensu…

1
Digging Deeper into Central Auditory Processing Disorder 22:16

3M ago22:16

22:16

Today’s show expands on our previous episode with Dr. Connie McReynolds in which we discussed central auditory processing deficits in kids with autism or ADHD. Even though many experts would argue that this is a medical disorder, it has profound impacts on education and certainly qualifies as an area of unique need for many children. Join us to lea…

1
244: Your Back to School Checklist for Children with Special Needs 22:59

3M ago22:59

22:59

Are you ready for the new school year? Back-to-school season can be both exciting and overwhelming for parents, especially those with children who have special needs or medical requirements. From my experience, preparing for a new school year when your child has special needs involves carefully reviewing their IEPs and healthcare plans. It’s really…

1
106. Dyslexia: What Is It & How Special Education Teachers Can Help Struggling Readers with Melanie Brethour 38:02

3M ago38:02

38:02

Hey Special Ed Teacher, In today’s episode, we have special guest Melanie Brethour. Melanie Brethour is a resource teacher from Montreal, Quebec, dedicated to dyslexia awareness and the science of reading. Her commitment was sparked by her son Benjamin's dyslexia diagnosis at age 9. To better support him and her students, she earned Orton-Gillingha…

1
Solving the ADHD Riddle with Dr. Connie McReynolds 23:44

3M ago23:44

23:44

It’s the beginning of another school year, and we are coming to you with many informative episodes to prepare and support you in whatever challenges this new school year may bring. Today’s episode focuses on a better way to assess, intervene, and support kids with ADHD by identifying and addressing the root causes. We welcome today’s guest, Dr. Con…

1
243: Tailored Financial Planning for Children with Disabilities | James Lange, CPA/Attorney, Author, & Parent of Daughter with A Disability 38:53

3M ago38:53

38:53

Parents naturally want to make sure their child with disabilities is well taken care of, both now and in the future. It's not just about meeting the day-to-day needs but also thinking ahead to their long-term financial security. There's a lot to juggle—from managing medical expenses to planning for their financial future. It can feel pretty overwhe…

1
105. How to Lessen Stress at the Beginning of the School Year for Sped Teachers With Brittany Blackwell 35:44

3M ago35:44

35:44

Hey Special Ed Teacher, Already stressed with the new school year coming up? Don’t want to feel overwhelmed with all the things that come with being a special education teacher? In today’s episode, we have special guest Brittany Blackwell, M.Ed. Brittany is an award-winning special educator and teacher burnout & sustainability strategist from South…

1
A Big-Picture View of Special Education Litigation with Tim Adams 30:47

3M ago30:47

30:47

Welcome! Today’s episode takes a big-picture view of what’s going on in education with our taxpayer dollars and how we can educate more parents about their general rights in advocating for their children. We use a recent California case as an example of how things can go so wrong–and cost millions of dollars–in special education law. Tim Adams has …

1
242: No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child | Kelley Coleman, Author, Advocate, Mom 48:22

3M ago48:22

48:22

The journey of caregiving is a delicate dance of emotions and responsibilities, especially for parents of disabled children who face societal pressures. Home and community care services provide essential support and respite, allowing families to maintain a safe environment and caregivers to recharge. Self-care, such as meditation or exercise, is cr…

1
241: Estate Planning in 3 Not So Easy Steps: Social Security Basics 56:53

3M ago56:53

56:53

Have you ever wondered how Social Security impacts those who are disabled or retired? I’ve seen firsthand how crucial it is for providing financial stability. Earlier this month we spoke about Social Security and Work. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I want to delve deeper into the basics of the critical topic of social security, public be…

1
104. Concrete-Representational-Abstract Method: How to Utilize CRA in Math with Students with Special Needs 9:20

3M ago9:20

9:20

Hey Sped Teacher, Are you wondering if the way you are teaching your students math is effective? Are you curious what the best way to teach math to your students with special needs is? In this episode, we are diving into how to utilize the Concrete-Representational-Abstract, or CRA, method with your students. I am sharing my top 6 tips for implemen…

1
ENCORE: Approaching Life with an Unstoppable Mindset with Michael Hingson 24:27

3M ago24:27

24:27

We are joined today by a special guest, Michael Hingson, host of the Unstoppable Mindset podcast. We have shared a lot of time on each other’s podcasts and learned a lot from Michael’s perspective on special education, especially what he experienced in the very early days of special ed. Join us to learn more about Michael’s life and work! Michael H…

1
240: Empower the Next Generation: The Person-Centered Approach | Christina Gravina CEO & Founder of BILT 27:03

3M ago27:03

27:03

Imagine navigating a system where your needs are ignored due to your age. This is the reality for many adults with autism facing age discrimination. The fight against this injustice hinges on advocacy, personalization, and accessibility. Advocating for legislative changes ensures equality and fairness. In this episode, host Annette Hines talks with…

1
239: Overcoming the Invisible Challenges of Disability 45:32

3M ago45:32

45:32

Talking about the challenges of disability can be tough and delicate. For those living with disabilities and their caregivers, every day brings unique hurdles that demand patience, creativity, and resilience. It’s crucial to focus on person-centered planning and get creative to make sure disabled individuals have the support they need to thrive. In…

1
103. Top 10 Most Downloaded Episodes: 2nd Birthday Celebration for the Podcast! 14:40

3M ago14:40

14:40

Hey Special ed Teacher, Happy 2nd birthday to the Stepping into Special Education Podcast! I can’t believe it’s been 2 years since the first episode was released. Thank you so much for being part of the show for the past 2 years! Today we are looking back through the second year of the Stepping into Special Education Podcast. I am sharing the top e…

1
ENCORE: Three Steps to Plan Now for the Future of Your Disabled Child with James Lange 37:10

4M ago37:10

37:10

We're happy to bring you some of our listener favorites during the next few weeks. These episodes are sure to pique your interest by featuring topics important to each of us Enjoy! We are pivoting from our normal education-centric topics today to take a broader view of the financial side of raising a child with a disability. We want to make sure th…

1
238: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities in Sexuality Education | Katherine McLaughlin 35:29

4M ago35:29

35:29

Sexuality education is a crucial aspect of personal development, but it often overlooks those with disabilities. These individuals deserve access to information that empowers them to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. Empowerment through education can be a shield against abuse and exploitation. In this episode, Annette Hi…

1
237: Disability & Divorce: Planning for a Secure Future | Circle of Care 35:54

4M ago35:54

35:54

How do you navigate the stormy waters of divorce when adult children with disabilities are involved? It's a tough situation that needs careful planning and thought to make sure everyone in the family is okay. In this episode, Annette Hines provides insights into the challenges faced by divorcing parents of adult children with disabilities, emphasiz…

1
102. 6 Top Tips for New Teachers from Our Stepping into Special Education Community Members! 15:37

4M ago15:37

15:37

Hey Special education Teacher, Are you a new special education teacher excited to jump into your very own classroom next year? Have you found yourself hoping you know everything you need to know to be prepared for whatever the year brings? The truth is, whether you are a new teacher or have been teaching for 15 years like me, you will never know ev…

1
ENCORE: LIVE from the Boost Conference 34:04

4M ago34:04

34:04

We're happy to bring you some of our listener favorites during the next few weeks. These episodes are sure to pique your interest by featuring topics important to each of us Enjoy! We recently had the chance to speak at the BOOST Conference about our podcast, the IEP system, and special education in general. The BOOST Conference is an annual event …

1
236: Preserving Family Legacies | Angela Todd, Archivist, Historian, Activist 37:21

4M ago37:21

37:21

Preserving family history is like capturing a piece of time in a bottle. It allows us to pass down memories, stories, and experiences to future generations. Whether it's old photographs, letters, or even recipes, archiving family history is a meaningful way to honor our past and ensure that it lives on for years to come. In this episode, host Annet…

1
235: Decoding Social Security: Navigating the Latest Updates 45:18

4M ago45:18

45:18

Are you missing out on your social security benefits? Social Security updates may not be the most riveting topic, but they’re a lifeline for those who depend on these benefits. Whether you’re already receiving Social Security or planning for the future, keeping up with the latest changes can make navigating the system a whole lot smoother. In this …

1
101. Need Admin Support? A Principal’s Perspective on How to Collaborate as a Special Ed Team with Dr. Patricia Corral 34:12

4M ago34:12

34:12

Hey Sped Teacher, Have you wondered how to ask your administrators for support? Are you looking for tips on how to build a strong relationship with your admin as a special education teacher? I am so excited to have a very special guest on today’s episode! We are joined by my principal, Dr. Patricia Corral, who is sharing some incredible insight on …

1
Proactive Solutions to Students’ Mental Health with Maria Barrera 20:24

4M ago20:24

20:24

We are taking a summer break for July to soak up a little summer fun with our families, so we are replaying some of our most popular episodes that are packed with information and inspiration. We will be back in August with new episodes to prepare us for the 2024-2025 school year. Today’s replay first aired a few weeks ago during Mental Health Aware…

1
234: Fun with Taxes | Circle of Care Talk 46:26

4M ago46:26

46:26

Have you ever wondered how to ensure financial security for a disabled loved one after you're gone? Or perhaps you're looking for ways to navigate the complexities of estate planning when it comes to disability benefits. In either case, understanding the ins and outs of Qualified Disability Trusts (QDTs) is a game-changer. In this episode, host Ann…

1
233: You Are Not Alone 13:45

4M ago13:45

13:45

Having been a caregiver for a disabled loved one, I know firsthand how lonely it can feel. However, our communities are key to dispeling isolation and forging connections during these hard times. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I share my motto 'create the things you wish existed,' and delve into how building a support network has been my …

1
100. Reflecting on 100 Episodes! Memories and Lessons Learned with Stepping into Special Education the Podcast 18:55

4M ago18:55

18:55

Hey Special Ed Teacher, We made it to 100 episodes of the Stepping Into Special Education podcast. I cannot believe it! I am beyond excited and so grateful for each and every one of you for tuning in each week! When I started this podcast, I knew I wanted to provide a resource for special educators who were looking for support, tips, and community.…

1
Moving From Diversity to Inclusion (Part 2 with Michael Hingson) 27:19

4M ago27:19

27:19

We promised you a Part 2 with Michael Hingson—and here it is! We don’t always get the opportunity to follow up a guest interview with a second part, and that’s why we are thrilled to bring you more of Michael’s inspiring story and his important work in the field of accessibility. Michael first joined us last May for an episode titled, “Approaching …

1
232: The Magic of Inclusivity | Debi Arsenault 44:35

4M ago44:35

44:35

While living in a society that can sometimes seem overwhelmingly critical and exclusive, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and acceptance is vital, especially for individuals with disabilities. For a parent to a child with special needs, balancing feelings of guilt, the challenges of self-care, and the importance of fostering acceptance can be …

1
231: There Will Be Butterflies in Alaska 8:52

4M ago8:52

8:52

Mantras and positive affirmations have become powerful tools in helping me find balance, harmony, and peace in my life. In this episode, I share a significant milestone for my family: my daughter Caroline is finishing college after a challenging journey. To celebrate, we're heading to Alaska for a family trip we've long dreamed of and saved for ove…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

IEP Writer Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide