Rewriting the Narrative

44:10

Beyond the Word “Transition:” Whose Future Are We...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/10/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson welcomes Dr. Tara Frazier, associate director of the Student Accessibility Center and director of the THRIVE program at the University of North Florida, and president of CEC’s Division on Career Development and Transition (DCDT), which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Frazier challenges traditional ideas about transition, describing it as a lifelong process centered on “living, learning, and working” rather than simply preparing

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40:10

Who Gets to Belong? AI Can’t Rewrite the Narrative...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/09/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson welcomes Olivia Fudge Coleman, PhD, assistant professor of exceptional student education at the University of Central Florida, for a conversation about rethinking how we support students with extensive support needs and the role artificial intelligence could play in creating more inclusive educational experiences. Drawing on her experience as a special education teacher and researcher, Coleman shares eye-opening findings from her work

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50:17

Surviving and Thriving in the Next Generation of...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/08/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Dr. Clara Hauth of Marymount University and Dr. Catherine Creighton Martin of George Mason University, co-authors of The New Survival Guide for New Special Education Teachers. Together, they explore the realities facing today's special educators, from navigating curriculum adaptation and case management to finding mentorship, building professional networks, and managing the challenges of teacher shortages and attrition. The

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51:45

Beyond Deficits: Why Dialect Awareness Matters in...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/07/01

In this episode, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Megan-Brette Hamilton, PhD, CCC-SLP, chief staff officer for multicultural affairs at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), to explore the important distinction between language differences and communication disorders. Drawing on her experience as a clinician, researcher, and educator, Dr. Hamilton explains why dialects are rule-governed variations of language—not deficits—and how misunderstanding a student's linguistic background

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47:31

Culture, Identity, and Special Education

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/06/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson speaks with Dottie Vea, M.S., M.Ed., a PhD student in educational leadership and policy at the University of Utah, full-time special education teacher in the Salt Lake City School District, and a recipient of the Diversity Leadership Academy scholarship. Drawing from her Tongan heritage, Dottie shares how a collective mindset centered on “we” shapes her approach to teaching, advocacy, and relationship-building in special education. The

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38:20

From Strategic Plans to Student Impact: Inside CEC’s...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/05/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Chad Rummel, M.Ed, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of the Council for Exceptional Children, for a conversation about leadership, advocacy, and the evolving future of special education. Rummel reflects on his path into education and shares the early classroom experience that shaped his belief in inclusion and individualized learning. From there, the discussion expands into the strategic direction of CEC, including how the

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43:05

Driven to Innovate Through Community: A Teacher of...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/04/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Rebecca Saunders an intervention specialist at Hayes High School in Delaware, Ohio, and CEC's Teacher of the Year, to talk about her 23-year career supporting students with complex educational, behavioral, and medical needs. At the center of the conversation is a commitment to seeing and supporting the whole student—academically, emotionally, and beyond the classroom. Rebecca shares how strong professional communities, like

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33:49

Advancing Inclusion: Humanizing Special Education...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/03/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by Dr. Joana Idakwo-Agha, member support officer for CEC’s Division of International Special Education Services, to explore what it takes to build inclusive, equitable special education across global contexts. Drawing on professional experiences in the United States, the United Kingdom, the UAE, and Nigeria, Dr. Idakwo-Agha reflects on common barriers she has observed worldwide, including delayed access to accommodations, low

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43:47

At the Table Together: Parents, Educators, and the...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/02/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson is joined by parent advocates Debra Evans and Maria Fausto for an honest conversation about navigating the complexities of special education. Drawing from their personal experiences, Debra and Maria share what it’s like to move through systems involving IEPs, early medical interventions, and school-based supports—and the pivotal moments that transformed them into advocates for their children. The discussion highlights the importance of

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41:33

Starting Strong: Early Education, Intervention, and...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2026/01/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Dr. LaShorage Shaffer, associate professor at the University of Michigan–Dearborn and a veteran educator, to explore the realities of early childhood education. Together, they challenge common misconceptions, emphasizing that the field goes far beyond babysitting to include intentional instruction that builds foundational academic, social, and life skills. Dr. Shaffer highlights the importance of strong family

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42:49

How AI Can Empower, Not Replace Educators

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/12/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Richard Capone, CEO and co-founder of Let's Go Learn, to discuss the evolving role of AI in education and special education. Richard reflects on his lifelong passion for technology and shares how AI can help teachers personalize instruction, automate time-consuming technical writing, and create more responsive, student-centered learning experiences. They also explore AI’s potential to reduce teacher burnout, spark

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46:01

50 Years of IDEA: Reflecting on Progress, Purpose,...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/11/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) with guests Dr. Bill Bogdan and Dr. Luanne Purcell. Together, they reflect on how IDEA has transformed the landscape of education over the past five decades—guaranteeing access, inclusion, and opportunity for millions of students with disabilities. The conversation celebrates the progress made while acknowledging the challenges that remain, from

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44:20

Building Inclusive Workplaces: Preparing Students...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/10/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Kelie Hess, an experienced advocate and trainer for people with disabilities and part of Utah State University's Institute for Disability Research, Policy, and Practice. Together, they explore why community integrated employment is so vital for people with disabilities. Kelie shares how meaningful work goes far beyond a paycheck — offering connection, personal growth, and a stronger sense of belonging in society. The

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40:20

Creating a Thriving School Environment Through Strong...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/09/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson explores how strong principal–teacher relationships can transform a school community. Joining the conversation are Ellis Elementary School principal Dr. Andy Jacks and special education teacher Denise Zervoudis, who share their experiences navigating high staff turnover while building a culture of trust and collaboration. Together, they reflect on the power of open communication, inclusivity, and even humor in shaping a positive learning

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35:21

Redefining Advocacy: How Educators Can Influence Change

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/08/01

In this episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillotson sits down with Kim Knackstedt, principal consultant at Unlock Access LLC and a longtime leader in accessibility and disability policy. Kim shares her journey from special education teacher to national policymaker, opening up about her work to eliminate seclusion and restraint practices and her push to create more inclusive learning environments for students with emotional and behavioral disabilities. They explore the often-overlooked

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43:04

Building a Better Future: Funding, Tech, and the...

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/07/01

In the premiere episode of Rewriting the Narrative, host Ben Tillson is joined by Dr. Danielle Kovach, a seasoned special education teacher and adjunct professor, and Glenna Wright-Gallo, vice president of policy at Everway and former U.S. assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitation services. Together, they share their personal journeys into special education, reflect on the evolving challenges of the profession, and explore critical issues like funding, staffing shortages, and the

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00:49

Rewriting the Narrative Trailer

Rewriting the Narrative ·

2025/03/10

Welcome to Rewriting the Narrative, where we delve into the transformative world of special education. Join Ben Tillotson as he hosts insightful conversations with educators, experts, and advocates. Each episode explores the real-life experiences that are shaping the futures of infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities, gifts, and talents. Season One is on its way, promising deep dives into crucial topics. Don't miss our inaugural episode launching this summer. Join us as we rewrite

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