x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Life in the IEP Tribe

Jared & Laura Curtis

Join us as we dive into the world of special education with two educators who have walked the same path as many of you. In addition to teaching in self-contained and collaborative settings, our hosts bring a unique perspective to the challenges and triumphs of raising a special needs child. From classroom strategies to heartfelt family moments, they offer practical advice, empathy, and a community of support. Discover how their personal experiences can shed light on your journey and gain valuable

education parenting

All Episodes

41:31

From Sympathy To Action: Building A Compassionate...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/10/28

Let us know what's up What if the only way to interrupt harm—at school, at home, in the headlines—is to choose compassion when it’s least convenient? We sit down with my parents for a raw, four-voice conversation about the difference between sympathy, empathy, and compassion, and why the last one must be defined by action, not emotion. From stories in special education to the wear and tear of caregiving, we unpack how calling, humility, and heart-guarding keep us from slipping into control a...

en-us

31:55

Navigating the Rising Tide of Disruptive Classroom...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/08/30

Let us know what's up Classroom behavior challenges have reached unprecedented levels, with more than 70% of teachers reporting increased disruptions post-pandemic. As educational professionals and parents navigate this complex landscape, we unpack the multifaceted impact these behaviors have on everyone involved in the classroom ecosystem. Disruptive behaviors don't just affect the student exhibiting them – they create ripple effects throughout the entire learning environment. Teachers los...

en-us

32:06

Reunited: Starting Season Two with Fresh Energy

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/08/23

Let us know what's up Back with renewed energy for season two! After a whirlwind summer filled with unexpected adventures—including camping mishaps involving ninja trees and discovering they're woefully unprepared for tent camping in Florida's scorching heat—they're diving back into the podcast with fresh perspectives from their new professional roles. As the school year kicks into gear, behavior challenges emerge as students readjust to classroom structures after months of summer freedom. ...

en-us

28:55

When Scissors Meet Sensory Needs: Transforming the...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/05/17

Let us know what's up Every parent knows the challenge of a child's first haircut—the tears, the squirms, the fear. Now imagine that experience amplified by sensory sensitivities or communication barriers. For countless families of children with disabilities, something as routine as a haircut can become an overwhelming ordeal. Meet Brianna Wells, a hairstylist who transformed her career path from aspiring kindergarten teacher to specialized children's stylist. Working at Cookie Cutters salo...

en-us

35:17

Not a Pusher, But a Partner: One Para's Journey in...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/05/10

Let us know what's up Enter the world of special education through the eyes of Jenny Jacks. Her twelve years at a small private preschool, followed by six years as a para in various public school settings, have given her unique insights into supporting diverse learners. With warmth and practical wisdom, Jenny reveals how the strategies that work best are rarely one-size-fits-all but must instead be tailored to each child's specific needs. From simple modifications like providing...

en-us

34:45

Beyond Pencil Grips: How OT Creates Meaningful...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/04/26

Let us know what's up Discover the transformative world of school-based occupational therapy with Taylor Pinson, an experienced OT working across all grade levels. Far beyond the common misconceptions of painful physical therapy, school OTs help students develop crucial skills for educational success through thoughtfully tailored interventions. Taylor demystifies how occupational therapy adapts across developmental stages - from foundational play and fine motor skills in preschoolers to cla...

en-us

41:01

The Speech Umbrella: It's Not Just About Talking Good

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/04/19

Let us know what's up The mysterious world of speech therapy extends far beyond correcting pronunciation errors. In this eye-opening conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Eliana Rodriguez, we discover the vast "speech umbrella" covering everything from articulation and grammar to social language and alternative communication methods. Rodriguez reveals how speech therapists serve as crucial "gatekeepers" in child development, often being the first professionals to identify communicat...

en-us

35:16

Balancing Acts: When the Parent of an Autistic Child...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/04/12

Let us know what's up Ever wondered what it's like to walk in two pairs of shoes simultaneously? Meet Marlee Stevenson - first grade teacher by day, autism mom around the clock. Her journey with her nonverbal son Carson illuminates the powerful intersection of professional expertise and deeply personal experience. Marlee takes us behind the scenes of a transformation that changed her family's life - the introduction of a communication device for Carson. "We had that same fear," she admits, ...

en-us

30:00

The Village It Takes: Robin Curtis on Supporting...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/03/29

Let us know what's up What happens when a grandmother recognizes the signs of autism in her grandchild before anyone else? Robin Curtis, a veteran educator and children's ministry leader, shares her powerful journey of supporting her grandson Xander through his autism diagnosis and development. The conversation reveals the delicate balance of approaching parents with concerns about their child's development - a moment Robin describes as "one of the hardest conversations I've ever had." Her ...

en-us

30:17

Beyond the Classroom: From Para to Teacher

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/03/22

Let us know what's up Amber Lueth never planned to become a special education teacher. When she first stepped into a special education classroom as a paraprofessional, it was simply a practical decision to align her work schedule with her daughter's school hours. "At first, I was like, I can't do this," she confesses, describing her initial reaction to the challenging environment. But something unexpected happened – the students grew on her, and she discovered a sense of purpose absent from ...

en-us

33:09

Life Gets Better: The Messy Journey of Parenting a...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/03/08

Let us know what's up Lindsey Workman takes us on a deeply personal journey through her experience raising a daughter with Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC) - a rare genetic disorder causing benign tumors throughout the body. When Daisy was diagnosed at just three months old after experiencing infantile spasms, Lindsey found herself navigating unfamiliar medical territory with little community support. What follows is a candid conversation about the realities of special needs parenting - fro...

en-us

33:09

Finding Fulfillment: Miss V’s Transition to Special...

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/02/22

Let us know what's up The episode features a discussion with Gina Volstorff about her transition from general education to special education. She shares insights into the importance of collaboration, communication, and understanding the diverse needs of her students, showcasing how this transformative journey enriches her teaching experience. • Gina's transition from Gen Ed to SPED • Understanding specific needs of students with IEPs • Enhancing collaboration with general educat...

en-us

37:31

Creating Supportive Environments for All: Embracing ABA

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/02/15

Let us know what's up Unlock the potential of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) with our distinguished guests, Rebecca and David Johnson, both Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Discover how ABA extends beyond therapy for individuals with autism and into everyday scenarios like seatbelt reminders and the efficiency of business practices. Rebecca and David share their experiences and strategies for using ABA principles to foster independence and address socially significant behaviors,...

en-us

36:26

Transforming Education with Heather McMillan

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/02/05

Let us know what's up Heather McMillan, a passionate special education teacher, joins us to share her journey from a scholarship recipient to a dedicated advocate for children with disabilities. Discover how Heather's unique approach to teaching emphasizes the balance between academic skills and adaptive life skills, fostering independence in her students. Through heartwarming stories and invaluable insights, Heather reveals how empathy and understanding can transform the educational experie...

en-us

31:17

Advocating for Every Child's Educational Journey

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/02/01

Let us know what's up Discover the profound impact of inclusive education with our guest, Lane Limpert, a devoted first-grade teacher and passionate advocate for integrating special education students into general classrooms. Lane shares her inspiring journey and offers valuable insights from her 19 years of teaching experience and her perspective as a parent of a child with special needs. Learn how fostering an inclusive environment not only builds confidence and social interaction among st...

en-us

34:24

From Integration to Genuine Inclusion

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/01/23

Let us know what's up Discover the complexities and triumphs of educational inclusion as we navigate the unexpected chill of Southeast Georgia's weather, drawing us indoors for a reflective conversation. Learn how to transform educational spaces into inclusive environments that empower students with disabilities to learn alongside their peers. With insights from parents and teachers, we explore what true inclusion entails, going beyond mere integration to ensure students receive the tailored ...

en-us

33:57

Nurturing Growth in Traumatized Students

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/01/19

Let us know what's up

en-us

39:13

The Intersection of Empathy and Learning

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2025/01/11

Let us know what's up What if our perception of being the main character in our own story blinds us to the struggles of others? Tune in as we promise to unravel the complexities of trauma-informed care, focusing on the transition back to routine post-holidays and the role of empathy in our interactions. We'll discuss how recognizing each person's unique narrative can foster compassion, particularly in sensitive situations like suicide. Whether you're a parent, educator, or engaged in human re...

en-us

35:02

Behavioral Insights and Tactics for Everyday Success

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2024/12/16

Let us know what's up Can discipline truly be separated from punishment, especially when it comes to special needs education? Join us as we unravel this complex relationship, beginning with a humorous nod to the Miami Dolphins’ most recent game, before transitioning to a deeper conversation about guiding children toward positive behavior. We promise you'll discover how effective discipline focuses on growth and safety rather than punishment, using real-life stories and professional insights f...

en-us

32:24

Fostering Memories Over Material Gifts

Life in the IEP Tribe ·

2024/12/05

Let us know what's up Picture this: It's ugly sweater day at school, and a well-meaning comment goes hilariously awry, serving as a gentle reminder of how we need to be thoughtful with our words. As we transition into the festive season, our latest episode tackles the unique challenges faced by parents and teachers of children with special needs, offering practical advice to create inclusive and personalized holiday celebrations. We discuss strategies for accommodating diverse preferences, li...

en-us

25 results

Similar Podcasts

Science Talk

Albert Einstein College of Medicine

五分钟心理学

柠檬心理

Daily Facts

Amalia Dupray and Montgomery Jones.

Les dents et dodo

BFMTV

Veterinary Clinical Podcasts

The Royal Veterinary College