Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Adonai Mack, Chief Executive Officer of Child Action, for a conversation about the critical role child care plays in supporting children, families, and communities. Together, they discuss the challenges many parents face in finding affordable, high-quality child care, the resources available to help families navigate their opti...

Special education is not a place—it is services and supports. In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains why conversations about placement should begin with identifying the supports a child needs to succeed. Under IDEA, students are entitled to a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment. When supports are clearly defined, placement decisions become more informed and mor...

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents , Julie M. Lane welcomes mental health counselor Shanjida Hoq for a thoughtful conversation about caregiving, grief, emotional resilience, and the mental well-being of parents raising children with disabilities and special needs. Together, they discuss family dynamics, sibling relationships, learned helplessness, grounding practices, and the importanc...

Disagreement during the IEP process does not mean you are being difficult—it means you are engaged. In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane discusses procedural safeguards under IDEA and the protections available to parents when concerns arise. From prior written notice to mediation and due process, families have rights that matter. You do not have to make rushed decisions. You can pause, review, ask q...

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents , Julie M. Lane welcomes Brian Bosma, Executive Director of Family Respite Care of Nevada. Together, they discuss the growing need for disability resources in Nevada, the importance of respite care for caregivers, and how community-centered support can strengthen families and provide children with a true sense of belonging. Website Facebook Instagram...

In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains why documentation matters in special education and how written commitments protect students and families. Verbal promises may sound reassuring, but only what is included in the IEP is legally enforceable. Understanding this shift can change the way you approach meetings and advocacy. Ask questions. Seek clarity. Make sure supports are documented. Learn m...

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents , Julie M. Lane welcomes Lisa Gurdin, a behavior consultant and parent coach with more than 25 years of experience supporting students, families, and school professionals. Together, they discuss contemporary ABA, compassionate care, neurodiversity-affirming support, and how parents can collaborate with schools while strengthening relationships at home...

Did you know you can request a special education evaluation at any time? In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains your rights under IDEA, including the school’s obligation to identify and evaluate students who may need support. If you have been told to “wait and see,” this conversation is for you. One written request can begin the process and create accountability. Your voice matters. Your advo...

Many parents walk into IEP meetings feeling like decisions have already been made. But under IDEA, you are not a guest at the table—you are a required member of the IEP team. In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains why your voice matters, how federal law protects your role, and what you can do to advocate with clarity and confidence during meetings. Your perspective is not extra. It is essenti...

What happens when we stop labeling children and start understanding them? In this episode of the Empowered Parent Podcast , Dr. Julie M. Lane speaks with Evelyn Knight; child care leader, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of Child Care Business Professionals. With decades of experience in early childhood education, Evelyn shares powerful insights on what children truly need to thrive and why supp...

What if communication isn’t about words, but about connection? In this episode of the Empowered Parent Podcast , Dr. Julie M. Lane sits down with Thamani Tomlin—mother, author, and advocate—to discuss her journey raising a nonverbal daughter with autism. Thamani shares the inspiration behind her book, Abigail’s Song , and the importance of representation, cultural awareness, and understanding comm...

Did you know that one of the biggest factors in a child’s success… is parent engagement? In this episode, we explore what current research says about the role parents play in special education, and why your involvement matters more than you may realize. We talk about: What parent engagement really means Why it impacts academic and emotional outcomes Common barriers parents face Simple, practical w...

There is a lot of conversation right now about changes to the Department of Education, but what does that actually mean for families? In this episode, I break it down in a clear, factual way so you can better understand: What the Department of Education does How special education is protected under federal law What potential changes could mean for services What remains the same—and why your role s...

What happens when parents are finally given space to be real? In this episode of the Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast, I take a moment to reflect on the powerful themes that have emerged from our recent guest conversations. From resilience and growth… to the importance of connection and community; one thing is clear: Parents are carrying more than we often see. And no parent should have to do i...

What happens after childhood when individuals with autism begin transitioning into adulthood? In this episode of the Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast, Dr. Julie Lane speaks with Andrew Arboe, an autistic adult who works in education and human services specializing in transition supports. Andrew shares his personal and professional perspective on resilience, growth, and the importance of develop...

ADHD is one of the most common childhood diagnoses, yet it is often misunderstood. In this episode of the Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast, Dr. Julie Lane speaks with Annette Rothman, an advanced practice registered nurse with over 25 years of experience in child and adolescent psychiatry. Annette specializes in diagnosing and treating youth with ADHD and is the author of ADHD Pearls; Condensed...

What does resilience really look like in everyday parenting? In this episode of the Empowering Parents Network Podcast, Dr. Julie Lane sits down with Carly Morris, a virtual assistant and mother whose life has been profoundly shaped by raising her daughter Abby. Carly shares the honest realities of parenting a child with special needs; the beautiful moments, the challenges that can feel overwhelmi...

Who is behind Empowering Parents Network, and why does this work matter so deeply to us? In this special episode, Dr. Julie Lane sits down with EPN team members Dr. Sonya Woodfork and Dr. Alexus Elkins for an honest conversation about their backgrounds, their work in education and advocacy, and the shared passion that brought them together. They discuss why Empowering Parents Network was created,...