Audioboom logo
Special Education Strategist: Expert Advice for IEPs, 504 Plans, Dyslexia, Parent Advocacy, Learning Disabilities, Executive Function, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Autism, Neurodivergent
Podcast logo
Listen & subscribe
Overwhelmed, lost, dismissed in IEP/504 systems — seeking help, clarity, and support? You're not alone!

Hosted by Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, a certified educational therapist, IEP coach, and parent advocate with over 20 years of experience helping families navigate special education. Wendy is the founder of Learning Essentials and a trusted voice in decoding IEPs, literacy challenges, and executive function needs. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or professional, Wendy brings compassionate expertise, real-life strategies, and empowering guidance to help you support the child you care about.
learningessentialsedu.com/podcast/

Special Education Strategist: Expert Advice for IEPs, 504 Plans, Dyslexia, Parent Advocacy, Learning Disabilities, Executive Function, Dysgraphia, ADHD, Autism, Neurodivergent

Special Education Strategist
Courses
138 episodes / 46.4K listens
138: What Makes a Goal Realistic? How to Know If Your Child’s IEP Goals Are Too Easy (or Too Much)
What does a realistic IEP goal actually look like? In this episode of our Summer Question Series, host Wendy Taylor is joined by Jackie Beach, M.Ed., founder of Rally Family Support, to unpack the “just right” goal—ambitious yet achievable. Learn how to collaborate with your school team, trust your gut, and use data (from home and school) to shape meaningful goals that support the whole child. ...
16m • Jul 08
16m
137: Summer Parent Series: What Do IEP Services Actually Look Like?
Ever stare at your child’s IEP and wonder, “What actually happens during those service minutes?” You’re not alone—and we’re breaking it down. In this kickoff to our 12-week summer series, host Wendy Taylor and co-host Jackie Beach dive into what related services like speech, OT, and behavioral support really look like in the school day. You’ll learn the difference between push-in, pull-out, and...
15m • Jun 24
15m
136: Dyslexia Advocacy & Assessment: How Parents Can Partner with Schools to Identify and Support Struggling Readers
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor is joined by Jenny Ponzuric, a Licensed Educational Psychologist and certified school neuropsychologist with over two decades of experience in psychoeducational assessment. Together, they walk listeners through how to recognize early signs of dyslexia, how to advocate for meaningful school-based evaluations, and what effective intervent...
59m • Jun 17
59m
135: Neurodiversity-Affirming IEPs: Moving Beyond Compliance with Breea Rosas
What does it really mean to be neurodiversity-affirming? Breea Rosas, licensed educational psychologist and founder of the Neurodiversity Affirming School Psychologist Group, joins Wendy Taylor to unpack how schools, families, and IEP teams can shift from a deficit-based lens to an affirming, strength-centered approach. From actionable language swaps to rethinking token boards and goal-writing,...
55m • Jun 03
55m
134: Rethinking Behavior: Play, Regulation & Neurodiversity
Is it misbehavior—or a regulation challenge? In this powerful episode, Wendy Taylor sits down with Polina Shkadron, trauma-certified speech language pathologist and founder of Play to Learn Consulting. Together we explore how play, trust, and brain-based support strategies can transform how we support neurodivergent learners. With over 15 years of experience in Autism, ADHD, and ARFID, Polina s...
1hr 5m • May 27
1hr 5m
133: How to Write a Parent Input Statement That Drives Services
Your voice isn’t just welcome at the IEP table—it’s legally required. In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, breaks down how to write a powerful Parent Input Statement that reflects what you’re seeing at home and in the community. You’ll learn how to collect meaningful data, prioritize your concerns, and communicate them effectively to shape your child’s I...
14m • May 20
14m
132: Early Intervention, Empowered Parents: Real Talk with Jackie Beach, M.Ed.
What should you really be looking for in early childhood development—and what do you do when it feels overwhelming? Wendy sits down with Jackie Beach, founder of Rally Family Support and early childhood expert, for a candid, empowering conversation about noticing red flags, collecting meaningful data, and making the leap from early intervention to IEPs. Jackie blends wisdom and warmth as she re...
1hr • May 13
1hr
131: When College Feels Like Too Much (or Not Enough): Finding the Right Fit
Is your teen overwhelmed by the idea of college? Or maybe you’ve realized that mainstream college—or even high-support programs like CLE—just don’t feel like the right fit. In this powerful conversation, Wendy Taylor sits down with Anne-Marie Stripling, an expert in college transition for students with learning and anxiety challenges, to explore how to build just-right support for young adults....
56m • May 06
56m
130: Go Gray with Me: The Story Behind My Mission
This solo episode is raw, real, and rooted in love. Host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, shares her family’s deeply personal journey—how her son’s brain tumor diagnosis flipped her world and transformed her as a special educator and advocate. You’ll learn why she created the $19 course Cracking the Code to Special Education Eligibility—and how it can help you move from fear to clarity. 3 Key Takeaw...
14m • May 01
14m
129: Out-of-Sync No More: Playful Tools for Sensory Success with Carol Kranowitz (Part 2)
Feeling overwhelmed by your child’s sensory needs? In Part 2 of our conversation, sensory integration expert Carol Kranowitz returns to share practical, joyful strategies to help your child feel more confident and connected. From Ziploc paint bags to backyard crash pads, this episode is filled with simple tools to bring calm, play, and purpose into your day. Missed Part 1? Be sure to go back an...
1hr 7m • Apr 15
1hr 7m
128: Sensory Processing & The Out-of-Sync Child: A Conversation with Carol Stock Kranowitz (Part 1)
What really makes a child "out of sync"? Wendy Taylor welcomes Carol Stock Kranowitz, renowned author of The Out-of-Sync Child, for an inspiring and practical conversation about sensory processing differences. With her signature warmth and wisdom, Carol explains how to identify sensory challenges, how they show up in everyday behavior, and what you can do to help. This episode is packed with ah...
55m • Apr 08
55m
127: Accommodations vs. Modifications—What Every Parent Needs to Know
Confused about the difference between accommodations and modifications? You’re not alone. In this solo episode, Wendy Taylor, certified Educational Therapist and IEP Coach, breaks down what these terms really mean, how they show up in IEPs and 504s, and why getting them right can make or break your child’s educational journey. Tune in to learn which questions to ask in meetings and how to advoc...
10m • Apr 01
10m
126: Understanding and Managing Resistance: Supporting Students Who Push Back?
Why do some students push back against authority, struggle with compliance, or resist help? In this episode, Britt Rathbone, LCSW-C, BCD, CGP, a nationally recognized adolescent therapist, breaks down why students resist and how parents, educators, and therapists can respond effectively. From Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) to executive function challenges, anxiety, and sensory sensitivitie...
57m • Mar 25
57m
125: IEP Service Hours: How Much Support Does Your Child Really Need?
Parents often wonder: Is my child getting enough support? In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, tackles the big question of IEP service hours—how they’re determined, what truly matters (quality vs. quantity), and how to advocate for services that make a real impact. Learn key questions to ask at your next IEP meeting and bust common myths about service...
9m • Mar 18
9m
124: Mental Resilience & Performance Anxiety: Helping Young Athletes Thrive
Episode Summary: What’s the difference between pre-game jitters and full-blown performance anxiety? How can parents, coaches, and schools better support young athletes in high-pressure environments? In this must-listen episode, Dr. Virginia Jones and Dr. Brenna Chirby, two top clinical psychologists specializing in sports psychology, break down mental resilience strategies that help student-ath...
49m • Mar 11
49m
123: Brain-Based Strategies for Students with Language-Based Learning Disabilities
Guest: Dr. Jillian Darefsky, Executive Head of The Siena School Host: Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P In this episode, Wendy Taylor speaks with Dr. Jilly Darefsky, a leader in specialized education and an advocate for students with language-based learning disabilities. With both professional expertise and personal experience as a parent of two dyslexic children, Dr. Darefsky shares invaluable insigh...
49m • Mar 04
49m
122: IEP Progress Reports: What Parents Need To Know
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, host Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., ET/P, delves into the essentials of measuring and reporting IEP progress. She offers actionable advice for parents to confidently interpret their child's progress reports, request raw data, and advocate for goal adjustments when progress stalls. Wendy emphasizes the importance of understanding legal rights under IDE...
14m • Feb 25
14m
121: Implementing Trauma-Informed Care in K-12 Education with Rachel Archambault
In this powerful episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, host Wendy Taylor welcomes Rachel Archambault, M.A., CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist and trauma-informed care advocate. Rachel shares her journey from experiencing trauma firsthand at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School to becoming a leading voice in trauma-informed education. Learn how educators can implement practical, min...
54m • Feb 18
54m
120: IEPs Aren’t Just for Academics – How to Advocate for Non-Academic Needs
IEPs Aren’t Just for Academics – How to Advocate for Non-Academic Needs IEPs aren’t just about grades! In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor breaks down how IEPs can – and should – support non-academic needs, including social-emotional skills, executive function, behavior, life skills, and related services like OT, speech, and counseling. Learn how to request function...
10m • Feb 11
10m
119: In the Cortex: Primitive Reflexes, Children's Behavior, And Brain Reorganization
Join The Special Ed Strategist podcast for an eye-opening conversation with Dani and Paloma, founders of In the Cortex. Experts in neurodevelopment and brain reorganization, Dani and Paloma explain how retained primitive reflexes impact children’s behavior, learning, and emotional regulation. Discover actionable strategies, including targeted movements, to help rewire the brain and support kids...
1hr 2m • Feb 04
1hr 2m
118: Inclusive Practices and IEPs
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor, M.Ed., Executive Director of Learning Essentials and a certified educational therapist, explores how inclusive teaching practices can support meaningful participation for students with learning differences. From understanding IDEA and LRE to advocating for SMART goals and teacher training, Wendy shares actionable strategies to help par...
12m • Jan 28
12m
117: Helping Your Child with Big Emotions
Join The Special Ed Strategist as Dr. David Palmiter, Clinical Director at the Chesapeake Center, dives into supporting kids with big emotions. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Palmiter shares practical strategies to help parents and educators foster resilience and manage emotional challenges. Key Takeaways: Insights into ADHD and emotional regulation in children The power of cognitive-b...
52m • Jan 21
52m
116: IEP Amendments and Adjustments
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor, a certified educational therapist and IEP coach with over 20 years of experience, delves into the significance of IEP amendments. She explains how these adjustments can promptly address a child's evolving educational needs without waiting for the annual review. Wendy offers practical advice on recognizing when amendments are neces...
8m • Jan 14
8m
S4 Ep414: Coaching Teens to Independence with Jane Singleton
Episode Summary: Join Wendy Taylor as she sits down with Jane Singleton, founder of Launchpad for Life, a certified leadership coach and special education expert. Jane shares her journey from special educator to coach, helping parents and teens foster independence, build executive function skills, and embrace neuroinclusivity. Discover actionable strategies for transitioning from a parenting “d...
50m • Jan 07
50m
S4 Ep413: Understanding the IEP Review Process
Navigating the IEP process doesn’t have to feel like entering a boardroom without a rulebook. In this episode, Wendy Taylor shares her expertise as an educator and advocate to guide you through the essentials of IEP reviews. Learn how to prepare, organize, and empower yourself as the expert on your child’s needs. Tune in to discover actionable tips and strategies for building a collaborative IE...
17m • Dec 17, 2024
17m
S4 Ep412: Preparing Autistic Teens for College Success - Building Confidence and Independence
Host Wendy Taylor welcomes Beth Felsen, founder of Spectrum Transition Coaching, to discuss essential strategies for preparing autistic teens for college. Beth shares invaluable insights from her 25+ years of experience as a parent, autism coach, and executive function specialist. Learn how to support your teen in developing social connections, mastering life skills, and fostering independence....
53m • Dec 10, 2024
53m
S4 Ep411: Differences Between ADA and Section 504
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor explores the transition from high school to college for students with disabilities, focusing on changes under ADA and Section 504. Wendy dives into self-advocacy, differences in accommodations, and FERPA's impact on parental involvement. Discover how to prepare your child to advocate for themselves, understand new documentation req...
15m • Dec 03, 2024
15m
S4 Ep410: Holistic Career Counseling With Dr. Daniel Greenwood, Ed.D., M.Ed.
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor welcomes Dr. Daniel Greenwood, Ed.D., M.Ed., and Beth Greenwood, B.A., UCLA College Counseling Certificate holders, who are experienced career and educational counselors with Greenwood Associates West, Inc. They bring insights from the Greenwood System, a holistic career counseling approach developed over three decades. This episode div...
44m • Nov 19, 2024
44m
S4 Ep409: Transitioning Between 504 Plans & IEPs
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor—special educator, IEP coach, and educational therapist—breaks down the complex process of transitioning from a 504 plan to an IEP. Wendy explains the key differences between the two plans, when and why you might need to move from a 504 to an IEP, and actionable steps for parents to advocate effectively. She offers practical advice ...
13m • Nov 12, 2024
13m
S4 Ep408: Support with Bullying with Chad Rose, Ph.D.
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, host Wendy Taylor sits down with Dr. Chad A. Rose, an Associate Professor at the University of Missouri and the Director of the Mizzou Ed Bully Prevention Lab. Dr. Rose shares insights on bullying and cyberbullying, particularly focusing on neurodivergent learners and vulnerable students. The conversation covers effective strategies to prevent bully...
53m • Oct 29, 2024
53m
S4 Ep407: Advocacy for Section 504 Plans
In this episode, Wendy Taylor breaks down Section 504 and shares essential advocacy strategies to help parents and educators secure the right accommodations for students with disabilities. From understanding 504 plans to out-of-the-box accommodations and dispute resolution tips, Wendy equips listeners with practical tools to navigate the special education system effectively. Episode Highlights...
15m • Oct 22, 2024
15m
S4 Ep406: Navigating Parenthood and Special Needs Advocacy with Susanna Peace Lovell
Episode Overview In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast, host Wendy Taylor sits down with Susanna Peace Lavelle, an author, speaker, life coach, and advocate dedicated to supporting the disability community. Susanna shares her personal journey as a mother to a daughter with multiple diagnoses, including autism, and how this experience has shaped her life's work. The conversation c...
54m • Oct 15, 2024
54m
S4 Ep405: IEP Strategy: Navigating Section 504 Plans – Strategies for Success
In this solo episode of The Special Ed Strategist, Wendy Taylor dives deep into Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the critical role it plays in supporting students with disabilities. Whether you're a parent navigating a 504 Plan for the first time or an educator looking to collaborate more effectively, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Wendy walks you through: What a 50...
10m • Oct 08, 2024
10m
S4 Ep404: Bullying and IEPs with Dr. Christine Waanders, Psychologist
Guest: Dr. Christine Waanders, a psychologist specializing in bullying prevention, IEP advocacy, and mental health support for children, especially those with neurodivergent needs. Summary: In this episode, Dr. Christine Waanders, psychologist from the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), joins Wendy Taylor to discuss the pressing issue of bullying among neurodivergent students. They ex...
44m • Oct 01, 2024
44m
S4 Ep403: IEP Strategy: How to Request a 504 Plan for Your Child
Welcome back to The Special Ed Strategist! In today’s episode, host Wendy Taylor breaks down everything you need to know about requesting a 504 plan for your child. Whether you’re unfamiliar with 504 plans or confused about the steps involved, Wendy offers clear guidance to help you advocate for your child and ensure they receive the support they deserve. Episode Highlights: What exactly is a...
11m • Sep 24, 2024
11m
S4 Ep402: Understanding Anxiety & Neurodiversity with Dr. Salya Namazi
Key Takeaways: The brain’s role in anxiety and why neurodivergent kids experience it more intensely. Understanding avoidance behavior and how to address it. The importance of early intervention to prevent long-term issues like depression. Why Listen: This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, and professionals seeking to support children with anxiety, ADHD, or autism. Dr. Namazi off...
50m • Sep 17, 2024
50m
S4 Ep401: IEP Strategy: The Power of Section 504 In Education
Welcome to Season 4 of The Special Ed Strategist Podcast! In this episode, Wendy Taylor, your host and Special Ed Strategist, dives deep into an important but often under-discussed topic: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This solo episode breaks down everything you need to know about how 504 Plans differ from IEPs, how they work, and how you can effectively advocate for your child's right...
11m • Sep 10, 2024
11m
S3 Ep326: Navigating The World Of Mental Health Services With Alex Williams, MSW
Alex Williams of The Anxiety Institute walks us through ALL of the essentials when it comes to navigating the complex world of mental health services. You won’t want to miss this conversation and all the wonderful and informative ways that Alex shares her expertise and knowledge with us! Discover more about mental health services in this episode. Main Discussion Points: Treatment Levels: It i...
54m • May 07, 2024
54m
S3 Ep325: Free and Appropriate Education Under IDEA with Ashley Barlow, Special Education Lawyer
Ashley Barlow, a special education attorney based in Kentucky, joins Wendy Taylor on the podcast. Ashley brings a unique perspective to the discussion, drawing from her experience as a teacher, attorney, parent of a child with Down syndrome, and someone with a physical disability. Main Discussion Points: Free and Appropriate Education Under IDEA: Explanation of parents' rights and protections...
59m • Apr 30, 2024
59m
S3 Ep324: Navigating Special Education: The Power of Systems and Collaboration
In this episode of The Special Ed Strategist, we delve into the invaluable role of organizational systems and collaborative partnerships in navigating the complexities of the special education system. Author and advocate Kelley Coleman joins us to share her insights and strategies for parents seeking to streamline their journey and advocate effectively for their child's needs. Key Takeaways: ...
59m • Apr 23, 2024
59m
IEP Strategy: The Four P's To IEP's
Follow along with Wendy today as she covers the four P's to IEP's! Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/learningessentials/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-taylor-7106b6a6/ Website: www.LearningEssentialsEDU.com (http://www.learningessentialsedu.com/) Review Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-special-ed-strategist-podcast-with-wendy-taylor-m-ed-et-p/id1639953041
15m • Apr 16, 2024
15m
S3 Ep323: Navigating The Neurodivergent Journey With Dr. Matt Zakreski
In this episode, Dr. Matt Zakreski joins Wendy Taylor to discuss effective ways parents can support their gifted or twice-exceptional children. Dr. Matt emphasizes the importance of proactive skill-building and future planning, encouraging parents to take action from where they are now. He also explores the concept of asynchrony in gifted children's development and how understanding this can he...
56m • Apr 09, 2024
56m
S3 Ep322: The Power Of Differentiation: Supporting Students With IEPs
In this episode of "The Special Ed Strategist," host Wendy Taylor explores the vital collaboration between special education and general education teachers in supporting students with unique learning needs. Joined by guest Rebekah Poe, an expert with experience in both realms, they delve into the significance of teamwork, parental empowerment in the IEP process, and the transformative role of t...
58m • Mar 26, 2024
58m
S3 Ep321: IEP Strategy: Emotional Regulation and Executive Function in Education
Introduction: Emotional regulation and executive function skills are crucial for overall well-being and success in life. These skills impact various aspects of life, including academic, social, and personal domains. Emotional Regulation: Involves managing stress, controlling impulses, and adapting to changing emotional situations. Challenges in emotional regulation can lead to intense emotio...
27m • Mar 19, 2024
27m
S3 Ep320: Navigating Speech And Language Services In The School Setting
In this episode, we're diving into the vital role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in schools. Join us as we chat with Hallie Sherman, a seasoned SLP with 16 years of experience in public schools, about the impact SLPs have on students' academic success. Discussion Highlights: Hallie's background and journey to becoming an SLP. The varied settings where SLPs can work and why Hallie chos...
43m • Mar 12, 2024
43m
IEP Strategy: When You Disagree With The School Evaluation
Have you ever received a school report or evaluation related to your kiddo's IEP and thought "that's not quite right"? Well, today Wendy walks you through all the right ways to: Collaborate with the school team Maximize outcomes when you disagree Appropriately approach the IEP team with questions Stay a team player with the entire IEP team, finding the third voice Reach out to us. We would lo...
11m • Mar 05, 2024
11m
S3 Ep319: Transitioning to College with Physical Disabilities and Health Conditions
Guest: Annie Tulkin, MS, Founder and Director of Accessible College Transitioning from high school to college can be a challenging process for any student, but it becomes even more complex for students with disabilities. Our guest, Annie Tulkin, discusses the importance of finding the right college and the steps involved in ensuring that students with physical disabilities and health condition...
59m • Feb 27, 2024
59m
IEP Strategy: Specialized Instruction
In this episode, we uncover the essence of specialized instruction, what it truly means, and how it can transform your child's educational journey. Specialized Instruction Defined: Individualized: Personalized to address each student's unique needs and learning style. Differentiated: Modifying teaching methods, materials, and assessments to accommodate diverse needs. Evidence-Based: Grounded ...
17m • Feb 20, 2024
17m
S3 Ep317: Unmasking Dyscalculia, with Cat Eadle, M.Ed.
🔍 Understanding Dyscalculia: Dyscalculia as a lifelong neurodiversity: a condition impacting various aspects of life. Limited research compared to dyslexia highlights the need for increased awareness and understanding. 💪 Empowerment Through Support: Importance of early intervention: reducing anxiety and providing tools for self-advocacy. Navigating educational, work, and social interaction d...
57m • Feb 13, 2024
57m
IEP Strategy: The Power Of An IEP Goal
In this dynamic episode, we delve into the intricate process of crafting and achieving Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals with precision, adaptability, and collaboration. The host emphasizes the dynamic nature of the journey and the importance of ongoing evaluation, adjustment, and collaboration. Key Takeaways: Precision in Goal-Setting: Goals should go beyond vague aspirations. A c...
12m • Feb 06, 2024
12m

Sorry, your browser isn't supported.

We recommend upgrading to the latest Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.

You can visit our support center if you're having problems.