UNspecial LLC Podcast

👉 By the way, have you heard of Zack's new book about his special needs journey? 📖 Check it out: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_ol...

👉 By the way, have you heard of Zack's new book about his special needs journey? 📖 Check it out: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_ol...

In this episode of the Unspecial Podcast, host Zack Ponder and special educator Alethea Ussher discuss their personal journeys in special education, the challenges of caregiving, navigating Medicaid, and defining success for students with special needs. They explore the impact of group homes, the importance of inclusion in education, and the role of IEPs in advocating for children. Alethea shares...

In this conversation, Zack Ponder and Sabrina Weeks discuss the journey of parenting a child with autism, focusing on the diagnosis process, the challenges faced, and the importance of support systems. They explore the impact of autism on family dynamics, the role of education, and the significance of community. Sabrina shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for underst...

Through his experiences, TJ highlights the significance of making conscious choices in life, the power of community, and the necessity of addressing mental health openly. He also shares insights from his book, 'Lead Your Adventure', encouraging listeners to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities and to cultivate a positive mindset. 📖

Olivia emphasizes the need for communication among parents, caregivers, and therapists to enhance the therapeutic experience. In this powerful moment from our conversation we talk about: ✔️ Why misconceptions about equine therapy often downplay its complexity ✔️ How horses can help develop speech in nonverbal students ✔️ How horses can sense human emotions and respond accordingly ✔️ How aspiring t...

Collin shares his personal journey of overcoming obstacles related to autism, the importance of family support, and the misconceptions surrounding autism.

Carmen discusses the challenges she faced in finding the right interventions, the importance of community support, and the impact of dietary changes on Colin's development.

Tyler lives life with a rare genetic disorder known as Kubaki syndrome. Despite these conditions, he has mastered video production and overcome many challenges in life. He turned his disability into a new ability! He shares: ➡️ Daily life with a Disability ➡️ How disabled individuals should be treated ➡️ His amazing journey to what he is now ➡️ Advice to parents and people with disabilities or spe...

In this powerful conversation, Krista Petraco Bourne shares her journey as a mother of an autistic son, discussing the challenges and triumphs she has faced. Krista emphasizes the importance of communication, early intervention, and the gut-brain connection in addressing autism. Her faith and determination to help others shine through as she shares her mission to raise awareness and provide resour...

"Disability, disability, disability" is often the reaction to Autism. But is Autism actually a disability? Or a DIFFERENT ability? In this video, Christian Armstrong shares his inspiring journey living life with Autism. He presents special needs under a whole different lens. He shares: ➡️ Daily life with Autism ➡️ How Special Needs individuals should be treated ➡️ His amazing journey from being no...

Zack Ponder speaks with Angelina Neglia , a dedicated advocate for children with disabilities, particularly her son Tyler, who has Kabuki syndrome. Angelina shares her personal journey, detailing the challenges faced in navigating medical systems, securing appropriate education, and advocating for funding and support services. She emphasizes the importance of being proactive, building relationship...

Darby Russo shares her experiences growing up with her brother Brady, who has special needs. She discusses the unique challenges and joys of being a sibling, the importance of advocacy, and the lessons learned from their journey together. Darby emphasizes the need for understanding and acceptance of individuals with special needs, highlighting their humanity and the joy they bring to the world. Th...

Brian Barrett shares his unique journey of adoption, parenting six children, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. He discusses the challenges and blessings that come with raising children with special needs, the importance of self-care for parents, and the dynamics of a large family. Brian emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and faith in navigating the complexities of parenting. He...

Zack Ponder and Holly Sabel discuss their journey with autism, focusing on the GAPS diet and its impact on health. They explore the importance of gut health, the challenges of dietary changes, and the role of parental advocacy in navigating medical advice. Holly shares her experiences with dietary implementation, educational pathways for children with autism, and the complexities of balancing fami...

Jody Deel shares his profound journey of adopting his son Micah, who is visually impaired. He discusses the challenges and joys of the adoption process, the emotional experience of meeting Micah for the first time, and the ongoing journey of integrating him into their family. Jody emphasizes the importance of community support, the unique dynamics of parenting a child with special needs, and the a...

Kendra Lynn Keller shares her experiences growing up with siblings on the autism spectrum. She discusses the challenges and joys of being a sibling to Jameson and Whitley, who both have autism. Kendra reflects on her understanding of autism, the importance of family support, and her aspirations for the future, including her desire to become an anesthesiologist. Throughout the conversation, she emp...

Lisa Waner shares her journey as a grandmother to Emma, a child with special needs, and discusses the importance of love, acceptance, and support in navigating the challenges that come with parenting and grandparenting. She emphasizes the need for open communication, understanding, and the role of faith in their family's journey. Lisa also reflects on her background in education, the emotional tol...

There are some parenting secrets you should know, and Claire is ready to tell you! Claire Powers, a speech and language pathologist, shares her journey through burnout and the importance of self-care for parents of autistic and neurodivergent children. She emphasizes the need for parents to prioritize their mental health to effectively support their children. Claire discusses the challenges parent...

Takeaways Sheena emphasizes the importance of community support for families with special needs children. Early intervention is crucial for the development of children on the autism spectrum. Parents often experience an emotional rollercoaster when receiving a diagnosis for their child. Support systems, including family and friends, play a vital role in navigating challenges. Finding the right the...

In this episode, Zack Ponder interviews Tamara and Brian Scrimsher, parents of Brady, who has special needs. They share their journey of parenting an adult with a disability, the challenges they faced, and the support systems and routines that helped them navigate through various stages of Brady's special needs life. The conversation highlights the importance of community, special needs education,...

"I felt trapped." Dakota was bullied in school, had trouble with communication, and doctors believed that it would remain that way. Thankfully, that's not the full story. Dakota Kerekffy shares his personal journey growing up with low-functioning autism, discussing the challenges he faced in communication, socialization, and education. He reflects on the support he received from his family, partic...

How is it like to parenting FOUR Special Needs Kids? Natalie shares her experiences parenting children who have special needs, discussing the challenges and triumphs of their family dynamics.

Takeaways UNspecial aims to normalize special education. Every child has a unique purpose. Online learning offers personalized support. Parental involvement is crucial in education. Building relationships with students is key. Teachers face significant challenges in classrooms. IEP meetings can be smooth with good communication. Students with difficult home lives need extra support. Success storie...

Takeaways Bailey always wanted to connect with families of special needs. Brady's capabilities were often underestimated due to programming. Family support is crucial for parents of special needs children. Siblings often feel overlooked but play a vital role. Communication challenges can lead to behavioral issues. School reports can be stressful for families. Transitioning into adulthood requires...