
Advertise on podcast: Special Ed Rising; No Parent Left Behind
Rating
4.5from
This podcast has
195 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Mark IngrassiaExplicit
No
Date created
2022/03/02
Latest episode
2026/10/18
Average duration
35 min.
Release period
8 days
Description
This former Special Ed classroom teacher is on his own with a microphone, to share some of the magic he's learned in his 36+ years in the field. Stories, strategies, and a true grasp for what life can be like for parents and caregivers of Disabled children are waiting here! Witnessing, first hand, your challenges in the home has invigorated my desire to share what I know and to be a cheerleader for your lives and the lives of your child using mindfulness as a fulcrum to success. You are not alone and your life matters. Join me as we let go and grow together!
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Check latest episodes from Special Ed Rising; No Parent Left Behind podcast
Beyond Behavior Plans: Connecting Home and School
2026/10/18
When a child experiences significant behavioral challenges, families and educators can find themselves caught in a cycle of incidents, phone calls, meetings, and frustration. But what if we shifted the conversation from blame to understanding, from reacting to preventing, and from simply documenting behavior to teaching skills that help children communicate, participate, and grow?
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, Mark Ingrassia explores how parents, caregivers, teachers, and school teams can work together to understand behavioral patterns, support difficult transitions, teach functional communication, interpret data responsibly, and build more consistent responses across home and school.
The episode also examines what research tells us about functional communication training, visual supports, and collaboration during school transitions. The central message is that evidence-informed strategies must be individualized, implemented thoughtfully, and evaluated to determine whether they are helping the child.
This is a conversation about accountability with compassion, safety with dignity, and the shared responsibility adults have to help children learn and thrive.
Research discussed: Walker, Lyon, Loman, and Sennott (2018), A systematic review of Functional Communication Training (FCT) interventions involving augmentative and alternative communication in school settings, Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Fontil and colleagues (2020), Barriers to and Facilitators of Successful Early School Transitions for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Other Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review, Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Mouzakes and colleagues (2025), A Closer Examination of the Visual Schedule Component of Interventions to Improve Transitions, Behavioral Interventions.
Listener reflection: What is one change that could help your home-school team move from responding to difficult moments toward preventing them and building skills together?
speciledrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
When the System Doesn't Fit the Child: Foster Care and Children With Disabilities.
2026/10/05
What happens when a child with a disability enters the foster care system?
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, Mark Ingrassia explores the unique challenges children with disabilities can face in foster care, including longer stays, multiple placement changes, and increased use of group homes or institutional settings.
Inspired by NPR reporting by Joseph Shapiro, Mark looks at the impact of trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, complex medical needs, and behavioral-health challenges—and asks whether the system is equipped to truly understand and support these children.
The conversation also examines how families can reach a crisis point when they cannot access the respite, behavioral, medical, and community supports their child needs. Sometimes, “I can't do this anymore” really means, “I've been doing this alone for years, and I desperately need help.”
Mark discusses the story of Christian Williams, a 15-year-old with Type 1 diabetes and behavioral-health challenges who died while living in a therapeutic group home, raising important questions about whether children with complex needs are being placed in settings equipped to care for them.
The episode explores the importance of family connections, kinship care, better coordination between schools, medical providers, caregivers, and child-welfare agencies, and listening to former foster youth about what children actually experience.
Most importantly, this is a conversation about changing the way we think about children with disabilities in foster care.
Maybe the goal shouldn't be to make children fit the system. Maybe the goal is to build a system that can fit the child.
Because every child deserves to be understood before they're judged, supported before they're punished, and connected before they're corrected.
In This Episode:
Children with disabilities in foster carePlacement instability and traumaBehavioral-health and complex medical needsFamilies reaching crisis without adequate supportCustody relinquishment and disability-related needsChristian Williams' storyKinship and family connectionsCoordination across schools, healthcare, and child welfareListening to former foster youthBuilding a foster-care system that fits the child
Reporting Discussed: Joseph Shapiro, NPR
specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: What happens when a child with a disability enters the foster care system?
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, Mark Ingrassia explores the unique challenges children with disabilities can face in foster care, including longer stays, multiple placement changes, and increased use of group homes or institutional settings.
Inspired by NPR reporting by Joseph Shapiro, Mark looks at the impact of trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, complex medical needs, and behavioral-health challenges—and asks whether the system is equipped to truly understand and support these children.
The conversation also examines how families can reach a crisis point when they cannot access the respite, behavioral, medical, and community supports their child needs. Sometimes, “I can't do this anymore” really means, “I've been doing this alone for years, and I desperately need help.”
Mark discusses the story of Christian Williams, a 15-year-old with Type 1 diabetes and behavioral-health challenges who died while living in a therapeutic group home, raising important questions about whether children with complex needs are being placed in settings equipped to care for them.
The episode explores the importance of family connections, kinship care, better coordination between schools, medical providers, caregivers, and child-welfare agencies, and listening to former foster youth about what children actually experience.
Most importantly, this is a conversation about changing the way we think about children with disabilities in foster care.
Maybe the goal shouldn't be to make children fit the system. Maybe the goal is to build a system that can fit the child.
Because every child deserves to be understood before they're judged, supported before they're punished, and connected before they're corrected.
In This Episode:
Children with disabilities in foster carePlacement instability and traumaBehavioral-health and complex medical needsFamilies reaching crisis without adequate supportCustody relinquishment and disability-related needsChristian Williams' storyKinship and family connectionsCoordination across schools, healthcare, and child welfareListening to former foster youthBuilding a foster-care system that fits the child
Reporting Discussed: Joseph Shapiro, NPR
specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: What happens when a child with a disability enters the foster care system?
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, Mark Ingrassia explores the unique challenges children with disabilities can face in foster care, including longer stays, multiple placement changes, and increased use of group homes or institutional settings.
Inspired by NPR reporting by Joseph Shapiro, Mark looks at the impact of trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, complex medical needs, and behavioral-health challenges—and asks whether the system is equipped to truly understand and support these children.
The conversation also examines how families can reach a crisis point when they cannot access the respite, behavioral, medical, and community supports their child needs. Sometimes, “I can't do this anymore” really means, “I've been doing this alone for years, and I desperately need help.”
Mark discusses the story of Christian Williams, a 15-year-old with Type 1 diabetes and behavioral-health challenges who died while living in a therapeutic group home, raising important questions about whether children with complex needs are being placed in settings equipped to care for them.
The episode explores the importance of family connections, kinship care, better coordination between schools, medical providers, caregivers, and child-welfare agencies, and listening to former foster youth about what children actually experience.
Most importantly, this is a conversation about changing the way we think about children with disabilities in foster care.
Maybe the goal shouldn't be to make children fit the system. Maybe the goal is to build a system that can fit the child.
Because every child deserves to be understood before they're judged, supported before they're punished, and connected before they're corrected.
In This Episode:
Children with disabilities in foster carePlacement instability and traumaBehavioral-health and complex medical needsFamilies reaching crisis without adequate supportCustody relinquishment and disability-related needsChristian Williams' storyKinship and family connectionsCoordination across schools, healthcare, and child welfareListening to former foster youthBuilding a foster-care system that fits the child
Reporting Discussed: Joseph Shapiro, NPR
specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
ArtStream; Performing Beyond Expectations: The Transformative Power of Inclusive Theater
2026/09/28
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, we explore the transformative power of inclusive theater with ArtStream, a nonprofit creating opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to perform, create, collaborate, and tell their own stories.
Joining me are Hayley Cutler, MFA, Artistic Director of ArtStream, and Adrian Forsythe, an ArtStream performer since its founding in 2005 who is entering his 21st season.
keywords inclusive theater, disability arts, community building, improvisation, original productions, arts and advocacy, peer support, arts education, accessibility in arts, creative collaboration
key topics
The history and mission of ArtstreamThe process of devising original theater with actors with disabilitiesThe role of improvisation and collaboration in artistic developmentThe impact of inclusive arts on community and confidenceThe integration of families and support networks in arts programsThe importance of authentic representation and 'nothing about us without us'The growth of actors from beginners to professionalsThe benefits of arts for advocacy and self-expression
Sound Bites
"Every piece is original, every story is unique""Nothing about us without us""Everyone deserves a chance to perform their art"
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Artstream and its mission
01:57The process of creating original inclusive theater
09:50The role of improvisation and collaboration
19:56Impact on actors' confidence and community
30:00Family involvement and community support
39:59The growth of actors and the importance of authentic representation
49:56Future aspirations and performances around the world
Website: https://art-stream.org/
Specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Team Child: Advocacy Without the Adversarial Approach
2026/09/14
In this episode, January Addison Lare shares her insights on navigating special education, advocating for children, and building collaborative relationships between families and schools. Her personal experiences and professional expertise offer valuable guidance for parents, educators, and advocates.
Keywordsspecial education, advocacy, IEP meetings, parent-school collaboration, disability support, education system, guardianship, Medicaid, family advocacy
Key TopicsThe importance of relationship building in IEP meetingsStrategies for parents to advocate effectivelyThe role of advocates in special educationImpact of policy changes on families and servicesGuardianship and long-term planning for individuals with disabilitiesThe need for systemic change in education and advocacy
GuestJanuary Addison Lare
Educational & Family Advocacy Consultant
Founder, Empowered to Thrive LLC
📞 785-513-9735
📧 [email protected]
🌐 empoweredtothriveconsulting.com
📍 811 S 1st Street, Atwood, KS 67730
Sound Bites“Fake it till you make it.”“Parents want someone to listen.”“Treat it accordingly.”
Chapters00:00 — Introduction and guest background
324:55:32 — Personal journey and name origin
6388:49:06 — Experience in special education and advocacy
14972:09:33 — Guardianship and long-term planning for loved ones
28555:30:07 — Impact of policy changes on services and families
352777:43:44 — Entering IEP meetings: Building relationships
380833:17:10 — Preparing for effective meetings and collaboration
453611:04:09 — The role of advocates and communication tips
535277:44:32 — Addressing systemic challenges and future outlook
Guest Links🌐 Empowered to Thrive Consulting
📧 [email protected]
📞 785-513-9735
specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Beyond “How Was School?”: The School Year Feelings Game Show
2026/09/08
Beyond “How Was School?”: The School Year Feelings Game ShowSpecial Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind
“How was school today?”
“Fine.”
Sound familiar?
In this episode, Mark Ingrassia turns the Back-to-School Feelings Game Show into a year-round tool for helping kids talk about what’s really happening at school.
Using fun rounds like the Weather Report, Feelings Meter, Worry Button, Pause Button, Backpack Question, Superpower Round, and Surprise Round, parents can help their children identify feelings, recognize challenges, ask for help, and think about solutions.
Mark also explains how to adapt the game for nonspeaking children and children who communicate using AAC, pictures, signs, gestures, pointing, objects, or other communication methods.
The goal isn’t to eliminate anxiety. It’s to help children understand that feelings are information and that communication is always welcome.
The game is the vehicle. Communication is the goal.
For parent coaching, workshops, and resources, visit specialedrising.com.
Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind.
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Vaccines, Autism & Politics: Where’s the Evidence?
2026/09/01
In this episode of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind, Mark Ingrassia examines recent claims from President Trump and HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suggesting a connection between vaccines and autism.
Mark asks a simple question: Where’s the evidence?
The episode looks at decades of research involving hundreds of thousands of children, including large studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews examining the MMR vaccine, thimerosal, and vaccination more broadly. The research has consistently found no evidence that vaccines cause autism.
Mark also discusses why rising autism diagnoses do not automatically establish a cause, the retraction of the original 1998 vaccine-autism study, and the importance of distinguishing legitimate scientific questions from conclusions made before the evidence is available.
Most importantly, this conversation is about families. Parents need accurate information, qualified professionals, meaningful services, and support—not fear, confusion, or unnecessary guilt.
We should continue researching autism. We should ask difficult questions. But we also have to be willing to follow the evidence.
IN THIS EPISODETrump and RFK Jr.'s claims about vaccines and autismWhat decades of research actually showThe MMR vaccine and autismThimerosal and vaccine safetyWhy autism prevalence alone doesn't establish causationThe impact of misinformation on familiesWhat policymakers should be focusing on instead
Don't follow the person. Follow the evidence.
RESOURCES & SOURCESHviid et al. (2019), Annals of Internal Medicine — Nationwide study of MMR vaccination and autism involving more than 650,000 children. MMR Vaccination and Autism: Nationwide Cohort StudyMadsen et al. (2002), New England Journal of Medicine — Population-based study examining MMR vaccination and autism in more than 500,000 children. Population-Based Study of MMR Vaccination and AutismTaylor, Swerdfeger & Eslick (2014), Vaccine — Meta-analysis of cohort and case-control studies examining vaccines and autism. Vaccines Are Not Associated With Autism: Meta-AnalysisDeStefano & Shimabukuro (2019), Annual Review of Virology — Review of the evidence surrounding the MMR vaccine and autism. The MMR Vaccine and AutismPrice et al. (2010), Pediatrics — Study examining prenatal and infant exposure to thimerosal and autism risk. Prenatal and Infant Exposure to Thimerosal and AutismWorld Health Organization (2025) — Global expert review reaffirming that available evidence does not show a causal relationship between vaccines and autism. WHO: Vaccines and Autism Evidence ReviewAutism Science Foundation — Evidence-based information and research on vaccines and autism. Autism Science Foundation: Autism and VaccinesDisability Scoop (August 12, 2026) — Michelle Diament, “Doctors, Advocates Call Out Trump For Claims About Autism.” Disability Scoop: Doctors, Advocates Call Out Trump For Claims About Autism
Visit specialedrising.com for more resources and information.
Question everything. Demand evidence. Listen to autistic people. No Parent Left Behind.
Travel Without Limits: Accessible Travel with Matthew Alexander
2026/08/24
In this episode, Matthew Alexander shares his inspiring journey of founding a travel agency dedicated to supporting families with children who have special needs, including autism. He discusses the importance of accessible travel, how to plan inclusive vacations, and the transformative benefits of travel for individuals with disabilities.
keywordsaccessible travel, autism, special needs, family vacations, travel planning, inclusive travel, disability accommodations, travel tips, autism travel, travel with special needs
key topics
The origin of Matthew Alexander's travel agency supporting families with special needsThe importance of understanding autism from a first-hand perspectiveHow travel can positively impact individuals with disabilitiesKey questions families should ask for accessible accommodationsThe role of partnerships and relationships in providing accessible travel optionsInnovative solutions for accessible travel including hotels, airlines, and cruisesThe significance of planning and communication in accessible travelResources and programs that support travelers with hidden disabilities
Sound Bites
"Travel can be transformative for people with disabilities.""Understanding autism from a first-hand perspective helps create better travel experiences.""Accessible travel is about more than just wheelchairs; it includes medications, sensory needs, and emotional support."
Website https:Professional Accessible Travel Hub
https://specialedrising.com/
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Special Ed and Exceptional Needs Resources for Parents and Caregivers
2026/08/20
In this episode I’ll be presenting some resource links and information to support you in parenting your child with exceptional needs.
🌟 Rethinking Early Childhood Education with Dr. Suzanne Adinolfi
2026/08/10
Your entire school’s curriculum in the cloud, with training built in!
In this episode, Dr. Suzanne Adinolfi discusses innovative approaches in early childhood education, emphasizing the role of AI in supporting teachers and fostering inclusive, stress-free learning environments. Discover how digital curricula and AI tools like LB are transforming classrooms and empowering educators.
Mark and Dr. Suzanne Adinolfi delve into the transformative role of AI in early childhood education. As the Director of Research and Content Development at Learning Beyond Paper, Dr. Adinolfi brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, exploring how innovative tools can alleviate pressures on teachers and enhance learning environments for children.
key topics
AI in early childhood educationDigital curriculum developmentTeacher support and professional developmentInclusive and adaptive learning strategiesParent-school communication and engagementClassroom management and behavior supportSpecial education and inclusive practicesFuture trends in educational technology
Sound Bites
"AI keeps track of lesson objectives and standards""When teachers are confident, children learn more""AI can help teachers think outside the box"
Websites Learning Beyond Paper and Learning Beyond the Bell.
Special Ed Risng: specialedrising.com
Rqy's Respite Care Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
🐾 Christine Devane: Raising Kinder Kids Through Stories
2026/08/03
In this heartfelt interview, Christine Devane shares her journey as an author dedicated to teaching children empathy, kindness, and responsibility through her engaging books about pets and social issues. She discusses her creative process, the impact of her work on children and families, and her inspiring efforts to support rescue animals like Tippy.
keywords: children's books, empathy, pet rescue, social-emotional learning, animal welfare, author interview, children's education, kindness, responsibility, pet adoption
key topics
The importance of teaching empathy and kindness to childrenHow pet rescue stories can educate and inspireThe process of writing children's books about social issuesThe impact of storytelling on children's social-emotional developmentSupporting rescue animals through literature and community engagement
guest nameChristine Devane
key frameworks
Empathy Education in Children's LiteraturePet Rescue and Adoption AwarenessSocial-Emotional Learning through Stories
titles
How Children's Books Can Foster Empathy and ResponsibilityThe Journey of a Children's Author Supporting Pet Rescue
Sound Bites
"I'm good. How are you?""Tippy is waiting for surgery.""Maybe one day you will too."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Christine’s Background
02:12Meet Tippy: The Rescue Dog with a Story
05:00Tippy’s Surgery and New Beginnings
07:02Inspiration Behind the Pet-Themed Books
10:05Teaching Empathy and Responsibility to Kids
15:01Using Stuffed Animals to Educate Children
19:48Addressing Children’s Fear of Animals
24:58Connecting Through Stories and Personal Experiences
30:05The Challenges and Rewards of Writing for Children
35:05The Role of Schools and Parents in Social-Emotional Learning
39:57Supporting Rescue Animals and Community Involvement
45:01Future Projects and Final Thoughts
ResourcesChristine Devane's WebsiteAmazon - Christine Devane's BooksBarnes & Noble - Christine Devane's Books
Guest linksWebsiteInstagram
specialedrising.com
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Special Ed Rising News: No Parent Left Behind Reporting • Policy • Advocacy • Disability Rights
2026/07/30
In this inaugural edition of Special Ed Rising News, host Mark Ingrassia covers six important stories shaping the future of special education, disability rights, and public policy. From proposed changes to federal oversight of special education to concerns about civil rights enforcement, preschool discipline, voting access, and immigration policy, this episode breaks down the headlines that matter most to families, educators, and advocates.
In This Episode🏛️ Federal Special Education Oversight
The Department of Education is moving forward with plans to transfer many special education responsibilities to the Department of Health and Human Services while shifting much of its disability civil rights enforcement to the Department of Justice. Learn what has changed—and what protections under IDEA remain in place.
🧸 Preschool Pushout
A troubling new report finds that preschool children with disabilities are suspended, expelled, or informally pushed out of early childhood programs at dramatically higher rates than their peers, raising concerns about access to early intervention and inclusive education.
⚖️ The Future of Olmstead
The Department of Justice has issued a legal opinion challenging decades of federal interpretation of the landmark Olmstead v. L.C. decision. Disability advocates warn the move could weaken enforcement of the right to receive services in community-based settings. The Arc responds with what families need to know about their rights moving forward.
📋 Civil Rights Enforcement Declines
A new Senate HELP Committee report reveals that the Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights reached a 12-year low in resolution agreements, raising questions about accountability and protections for students with disabilities.
🗳️ Accessible Voting
The latest update on the SAVE America Act, including why disability advocates remain concerned about its potential impact on accessible voting and why the legislation remains stalled in the Senate.
🌎 Immigration Policy and Disability Services
A new federal immigration rule is raising concerns that eligible immigrant families may avoid Medicaid and other disability services out of fear it could affect immigration status, potentially creating a chilling effect on access to essential supports.
Resources & SourcesDisability ScoopThe Arc of the United StatesEducation Law Center of PennsylvaniaU.S. Senate HELP Committee
Connect with Special Ed Rising🌐 Website: SpecialEdRising.com
If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with parents, educators, advocates, and anyone committed to creating a more inclusive future for children with disabilities.
Because informed families become empowered advocates.
specialedrising.com
Your Children Are Always Watching | Jessica Ann Ellis, Author of GOT YOUR BACK, ALWAYS
2026/07/27
In this episode, Jessica Ann Ellis shares her journey from teacher to children's author, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, self-care, and modeling healthy emotional responses for children. Discover how her books aim to foster emotional awareness and support parents and educators in nurturing resilient, emotionally strong kids.
keywordschildren's books, emotional intelligence, parenting, self-care, mental health, childhood development, storytelling, emotional expression
key topics
The importance of emotional intelligence in childhoodHow parents and teachers can model healthy emotional responsesThe role of storytelling in emotional developmentJessica Ann Ellis's journey from teacher to children's authorThe impact of support systems and self-care for parents and caregivers
guest nameJessica Ann Ellis
titles
The Power of Emotional Expression in Children's BooksFrom Teacher to Author: Jessica Ann Ellis's Journey
Sound Bites
"You can do anything you put your mind to""Feeling your feelings is a superpower""Support from others helps children feel brave"
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Jessica's creative process
02:03The role of emotional modeling in parenting
05:06The importance of emotional expression and healthy coping strategies
09:09Jessica's journey from teaching to writing children's books
14:59Creating books that foster emotional awareness and resilience
19:57The impact of support systems and self-care for parents
24:59How stories help children understand and express feelings
29:58The creative process behind 'Got Your Back Always'
34:55Reactions from children and adults to the books
40:02The importance of community and trusted support
45:07Final thoughts and upcoming projects
ResourcesJessica Ann Ellis - FacebookGot Your Back Always (Book)In Your Heart Always (Upcoming Book)https://ellis-books.com/ (Website)
Guest linksFacebook
Host links
specialedrising.comhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Investing in Lives: A New Vision for Special Education with Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman
2026/07/20
In this episode, Jeremy Tiegerman shares insights into his lifelong dedication to special education, focusing on language development, behavioral support, and innovative programs for neurodivergent students. Discover how his family’s legacy and his own experiences shape a comprehensive approach to supporting children with learning differences.
keywordsspecial education, language development, behavioral support, neurodivergent students, education programs, parent advocacy, teaching strategies
key topics
Family legacy in educationImportance of language developmentBehavioral support and interventionsProgram structure and classroom ratiosParent involvement and advocacyTeacher training and professional developmentTransition planning for studentsImpact of COVID-19 on behavior and communication
guest nameDr. Jeremy Tiegerman
titles
Inside Look at Specialized Education with Jeremy TiegermanTransforming Lives: Jeremy Tiegerman on Language and Behavior Support
Sound Bites
"Investors in lives, not just students""Behavior is a form of communication""Graduating with a diploma or certificate of completion"
Chapters
00:00Introduction and guest introduction
2416:36:30Jeremy's lifelong involvement in education
8999:56:58Family legacy and founding of the school
16138:50:42Focus on language as foundational to learning
20333:17:34Individualized education plans and program structure
25194:24:25Role of speech-language pathologists and classroom support
345555:31:21Teacher collaboration and classroom management
411944:24:53Classroom ratios and program size
449999:58:25School locations and program diversity
520555:32:02Transition programs and adult services
619444:25:42Parent involvement and advocacy
738611:06:06Open door policy and community engagement
843611:06:33Communication and behavior management
911388:53:20Closing remarks and future collaboration opportunities
ResourcesTiegerman School for Language and Communication DevelopmentOPWDD - Office for People with Developmental Disabilitieshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4FBluZ3rO8
Guest linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-tiegerman-01473b17/https://tiegerman.org/
Host links
specialedrising.comhttps://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Redefining Fatherhood: Ambition, Vulnerability, and the Modern Dad with Jeff Hittner
2026/07/13
In this episode, Jeff Hittner shares his journey into fatherhood, the challenges modern dads face, and how redefining masculinity and emotional intelligence can lead to more fulfilling relationships with their children.
keywords: fatherhood, emotional intelligence, masculinity, dad's role, parenting challenges, legacy, vulnerability, co-parenting, modern fatherhood
key topics
Redefining masculinity and fatherhoodThe importance of emotional intelligence in dadsChallenges faced by modern fathersThe role of vulnerability in parentingCo-parenting and communication strategiesLegacy and the impact of fatherhoodOvercoming societal stereotypes about dadsThe importance of self-awareness and growth for dads
takeaways
Dads need to redefine what masculinity means in today's world.Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective parenting.Many fathers struggle with societal expectations and role models.Vulnerability and openness can strengthen father-child relationships.Co-parenting requires communication and shared values.Legacy is about the values and emotional connections we leave behind.Dads should invest in their own emotional growth to be better fathers.
guest nameJeff Hittner
titles
Redefining Fatherhood: Embracing Vulnerability and Emotional IntelligenceThe Modern Dad's Guide to Building Legacy and Connection
Sound Bites
"Fatherhood is about redefining traditional roles.""Emotional intelligence is the key to better parenting.""Legacy is what you leave in your children's hearts."
Chapters
00:00Navigating the World of Fatherhood
00:37Redefining Fatherhood: A Personal Journey
04:41The Emotional Landscape of Modern Dads
10:19Integrating Work and Fatherhood
14:10Legacy and Intentional Parenting
16:32Recognizing Struggles: Triggers and Self-Awareness
18:42The Burden of Traditional Masculinity
20:37Navigating Co-Parenting Challenges
23:00Understanding Parenting Styles and Backgrounds
24:56Flexibility in Parenting Approaches
26:32Building Confidence in Parenting
29:39Evolving Definitions of Fatherhood
33:29Creating Safe Spaces for Dads
34:55The Legacy of Fatherhood
ResourcesAmbitious Dad PodcastJeff Hittner - LinkedInBuilding a StoryBrand by Donald MillerThe Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown
Guest linksLinkedInWebsite
Host website: https://specialedrising.com/
Ray's Respite Care: https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
From Reading Wars to Reading Success: Simplifying the Science of Reading with Dr. Marnie Ginsberg
2026/07/06
In this episode, I"m speaking with Dr. Marnie Ginsberg, founder of Reading Simplified. After discovering that many of her own students were years behind in reading, Dr. Ginsberg set out to find a better way. Today, through Reading Simplified, she helps teachers use the Science of Reading to dramatically accelerate literacy growth while making reading instruction simpler and more effective. We explore the myths of reading instruction, the science of how children learn to read, and practical strategies for teachers and parents to support literacy development.
education, science of reading, phonics, literacy, teaching strategies, reading wars, dyslexia, parent tips, teacher training
key topics
The history and myths of reading instructionThe science of how children learn to readThe importance of phonics and decodingStrategies for teaching reading effectivelyThe impact of social media on reading habitsSupporting neurodiverse and hearing-impaired studentsThe role of knowledge and background in comprehensionChallenges faced by teachers and solutions
guest nameMarnie Ginsberg
titles
The Science of Reading: Myths and StrategiesHow to Teach Reading Based on Brain Science
Sound Bites
"You can't learn to read by recognizing whole words.""Struggling with decoding affects comprehension and confidence.""Teaching reading is an art as much as a science."
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
02:56Marnie Ginsberg's Journey in Education
08:15The Targeted Reading Intervention
12:24The Reading Wars: Whole Language vs. Phonics
16:34Teaching Phonics Effectively
21:29The Importance of Knowledge Base in Reading
22:40Teacher Reception and Legislative Challenges
25:18Navigating Educational Compliance and Student Outcomes
28:04Addressing Diverse Learning Needs
31:11The Impact of Social Media on Reading
34:22Myths and Misconceptions in Reading Education
37:12The Art of Teaching Reading
42:19Final Thoughts for Parents and Educators
ResourcesReading SimplifiedSold a Story PodcastLanguage at the Speed of Sight by Dr. Mark SeidenbergTargeted Reading Instruction Program
Guest linksWebsite
Host link: https://specialedrising.com/
Go Fund Me (Ray's Respite Care): https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-rays-respite-care-mission
Podcast reviews
Read Special Ed Rising; No Parent Left Behind podcast reviews
KinderMatters 2025/11/26
An Honest and Heartfelt Look at Special Education
I believe that Special Ed Rising is an extremely valuable, insightful, and honest podcast. As a teacher for over 23 years, I can confidently say it’s ...
Schadumaster 2025/04/18
A positive and informative podcast
An uplifting and informative podcast for all parents, not just parents of special needs children.
EQG33 2022/08/16
Serious content shared with humor and heart
Parenting an exceptional needs child is all the relentlessness of parenting, turned up to "11." How great, then, to find support and perspective for *...
Gerkv54 2022/07/29
Amazing podcast
Mark’s podcast has helped me so much! He has helped me be more mindful, positive and patient with my son who is on the spectrum. I love all the advice...
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