Rishanka Jones Show

Families pay admissions consultants thousands of dollars to get through this process. Most of what they're buying isn't secret. It just isn't explained to anyone who doesn't pay for it. Start with the part nobody tells you: when a school says it has thirty places in a grade, that is not thirty places available to you. Some are already committed to siblings of current families, to children of facul...

It's 7:40 in the morning. Your child is on the floor, or in bed, or locked in the bathroom saying their stomach hurts. Again. You have twenty minutes to decide whether to push, or let them stay home. Here's what nobody tells you about that decision. Both options feel wrong because both options are wrong on their own. Letting them stay home works today and makes tomorrow harder. Forcing them in wit...

There's a systematic review of research on parent-teacher conferences, and it found something that isn't in any of the "20 questions to ask" articles. The conference is not a neutral meeting between two equals. The teacher is the person in charge, the person positioned as the expert, and the person who controls what gets discussed and for how long. Parents try to reframe the story being told, and...

A child who disrupts a classroom gets attention within a week. A child who is quietly drowning can go years before anyone asks a single question. Here are two numbers that show it. In community studies, where researchers screen whole populations rather than waiting for someone to raise a hand, boys outnumber girls with ADHD by roughly three to one. In clinics, among children actually referred for...

Dates shown are for the 2027-28 admissions cycle. Always verify on each school's own site before you rely on them. I looked at two of the most prestigious private schools in this region. Sidwell Friends in DC and Gilman in Baltimore. They're an hour apart. Almost nothing about their application processes matched. Different deadlines. Different testing. One considers the ISEE. The other currently d...

Your child is struggling at school and someone told you to ask for an IEP. Or maybe a 504. Nobody explained the difference, including the school. Here's the simplest way to think about it: a 504 changes the environment. An IEP changes the instruction. If your child can learn the same way as everyone else but needs barriers removed, that's a 504. If they need to be taught differently, that's an IEP...

Your kid's teacher is looking at 26 faces. Here's how to make sure yours isn't the one they misread. Carol Muleta of The Parenting 411 has raised twin sons who are now 26, and she has a habit most parents never think of: she emailed every teacher at the start of the school year, before there was ever a problem. Not to complain. To introduce herself, say what her child was interested in, and quietl...

Are you struggling with fatigue, mood shifts, or stubborn weight gain? In this essential episode, we dive deep into women's health, hormones, and endocrine function to uncover how to balance hormones naturally for optimal wellness. We explore the silent impact of stress on hormonal balance, breaking down the common signs of high cortisol and how chronic stress wreaks havoc on your body. Our discus...

Are schools quietly failing our brightest minds? In this episode, host Rishanka Jones sits down with renowned education expert Dr. Jonathan Plucker to expose a hard truth: high-potential students are being missed in plain sight, and the long-term cost of academic stagnation is bigger than most parents or schools realize. Dr. Plucker breaks down the "anti-excellence bias" deeply embedded in the edu...

The conversation delves into the concept of pluralism in education policy, highlighting the challenges in the current education system, the role of curriculum and school culture, social cohesion, enforcing a pluralistic education system, concerns about democracy and fundamentalism, and the comparison between private and public education in the UK. The conversation explores the complexities of educ...

Confused by the difference between an IEP and a 504 plan? Most parents underestimate how complex these legal tools are—and many schools make it even harder to navigate the process. In this episode of The Rishanka Jones Show , I’m joined by Rich Weinfeld, a seasoned expert in special education law with over 30 years of experience, to show you how to advocate effectively for your child’s unique need...

Are you considering homeschooling in Maryland or feeling overwhelmed by MD homeschool laws? In this episode, seasoned homeschool mom Brandy Orndorff breaks down how to homeschool in Maryland legally, confidently, and stress-free. Whether you are just beginning your homeschooling journey or transitioning your kids mid-year from MD public schools, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need...

Is private school worth the money, or are public schools just as good? In this episode, Dr. David Steiner, Director of the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy, uncovers the truth behind the public school vs private school debate. If you are struggling with school choice, deciding on charter schools, or wondering about college admissions advantages, this expert guide breaks down what actua...

Struggling with sudden weight changes, stubborn belly fat, or low energy? In this episode, Dr. Madison Kackley from the Ohio State University SHE IS Lab breaks down the science of female metabolism, hormonal shifts, and menopause weight gain. If you want to understand how estrogen, cortisol, and insulin resistance affect your body in your 30s, 40s, and beyond, this expert guide is for you. 📌 Key...

Navigating the complexities of special education plans like 504 and IEP can be overwhelming for parents. In this episode, Sandra Blumenreich, a seasoned advocate with a background in education, shares her insights on how parents can effectively advocate for their children's needs within the school system and understand their options more clearly. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to special educati...

The conversation covers the topics of Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 Plan, as well as legal documents related to education and disability rights. Takeaways IEP and 504 Plan Legal Documents Chapters 00:00 Individual Education Plan (IEP) and 504 Plan

Insights from Dr. Rebecca Resenick Discover how to navigate the complex world of neurodiversity with insights from Dr. Rebecca Resenick, a neuropsychologist and expert in ADHD and autism. This episode emphasizes the importance of a collaborative, compassionate approach to diagnosis and interventions, empowering families to see neurodiverse traits as potential superpowers. Timestamps 00:00 - Introd...

The conversation covers topics related to ADHD and autism, including their differences, genetic factors, diagnosis, misconceptions, social communication, empathy, and therapy for neurodivergent children. It also explores computational linguistics in mental health and empowering children with neurodivergent conditions. Takeaways ADHD and autism have overlapping symptoms and challenges, requiring a...

Is your skincare routine actually working, or are you just following the hype? In today’s episode, we sit down with Shelly Hancock, a legendary esthetician with over 35 years of experience (since 1988!), to debunk the biggest myths in the beauty industry. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by 10-step routines, expensive LED masks, this is the ultimate guide to simplifying your skincare for real, last...

Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Unlock the hidden truths about how girls' brains work differently. In this episode, Dr. Alison Pritchard from Kennedy Krieger explains why the struggles of girls are often missed and how they use social intelligence to hide their daily challenges. # Timestamps: 0:00 Why girls' struggle...

Overwhelmed by the special education system? In this episode, Andrew Stettner (Board President for the Autism Society of Maryland) breaks down the IEP vs 504 plan debate to give you a clear roadmap for student advocacy and accommodation. If you want to know how to win school meetings, handle budget changes, and secure your child's future transition to adulthood, this expert guide is for you. 👇 Le...

Is private school actually better, or are parents just paying for privilege? Educational policy expert Dr. Jameson Brewer breaks down the "school choice myth," public vs private school quality, and what truly drives student success. Most parents assume that private schools automatically provide a superior edge for college admissions and future success but what if the real advantage is rooted entir...

Dive into the deep waters of Vedic astrology with expert Nipun Joshi as he unpacks the complex influences of moon combinations with Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. Discover how these planetary alignments shape emotional landscapes, relationships, and spiritual paths, along with practical remedies to align with cosmic energies. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to planetary influences on the emotional lands...

Welcome to this vital conversation on Menopause and Nutrition! In this insightful episode, host Rishanka Jones and nutrition expert Alison Bladh dive deep into how diet affects every stage of midlife. If you've been struggling with unwanted weight gain, persistent hot flashes, or energy dips, this is the episode for you. We break down the entire transition, from perimenopause to postmenopause, dis...

Struggling with creative block? Join renowned Creativity Explorer Fredrik Haren as he unveils powerful secrets to unleash your creativity, drawing profound lessons from 37 countries including the vibrant culture of India, Thailand and Bhutan. Don't let creative challenges hold you back. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations on entrepreneurship, creativity and personal growth! Fredrik's book:...