Unlock Your Power: Advocate for your Special Needs Child

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 relationships with specialists, and understanding the intricacies of special education and healthcare systems. The conversation also touches on community advocacy, environmental issues, and the need for better communication among agencies. Throughout, Angelina highlights the victories and achievements of her son, showcasing the potential for success despite the obstacles faced.

#specialneeds #advocate #iep #interview #specialeducation #autism

What Darby's Brother With Special Needs Taught Her

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. The conversation also touches on family dynamics, public perception, and advice for parents navigating similar situations.

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editor: Eliot Gardalits

#specialneeds #podcast #interview

The Incredible Journey of Brian - Adopting Six Children

The Incredible Journey of Brian - Adopting Six Children! 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 also offers valuable advice for other parents facing similar challenges, highlighting the significance of community and open communication.

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editor: Eliot Gardalits

#adoption #adoptionjourney #adoptionislove #specialneeds #autism #autismjourney

Mom of Autistic Child Tried the GAPS Diet - Here's What She Thinks

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 family life with dietary needs.

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editor: Eliot Gardalits #gapsdiet #gaps #autism

Adopting a Blind Boy From China - The Inspiring Story Of Jody

Despite challenges, Jody Deel decided to Adopt a Special Needs boy from China.

Jody 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 aspirations he has for Micah's future. The conversation serves as an inspiring testament to the power of love, resilience, and faith in the face of challenges.

This podcast was created by UNspecial. Our hope and goal is that all families with Special Needs would feel equipped, supported, and inspired. Find out more at https://www.unspecialllc.com/

#specialneeds #podcast

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editing: Eliot Gardalits

14-Year-Old with Two Autistic Siblings - UNspecial Podcast

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 emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding towards individuals with special needs, and the importance of standing up against bullying. Kendra's insights provide a unique perspective on the impact of autism on family dynamics and the growth that comes from navigating these challenges together.

#specialneeds #podcast

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editing: Eliot Gardalits

The Truth - Parenting a Special Needs Adult →

Tamara and Brian reveal the truth about parenting a special needs adult. By the end, they share valuable pieces of advice that EVERY parent needs to know. 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, routines, and personal growth while emphasizing the need for parents of children with a disability to take care of themselves and seek support. Tamara and Brian reflect on their experiences, offering valuable parenting insights and advice for other parents of special needs children.

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editor and Marketing: Eliot Gardalits

#specialneeds #specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotionalwellbeing #parenting #parentingtips #disability #routines

The Truth - Life With Autism →

"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, particularly his mother, and the various therapies that helped him navigate his condition. Dakota also talks about his experiences in school, the bullying he endured, and how he found solace in his church community. He shares insights on finding love, building a family, and the importance of accepting one's differences. Throughout the conversation, Dakota emphasizes the need for patience, understanding, and the value of resources for families dealing with autism.

(autism, personal journey, support systems, family, education, social challenges, love, advice, neurodiversity, overcoming obstacles)

Host: Zack Ponder

Producer: Lem Usita

Editor and Marketing: Eliot Gardalits

#specialneeds #specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotionalwellbeing #parenting #parentingtips #disability #routines

THE TRUTH - Parenting 4 Special Needs Kids →

How is it like to parenting FOUR Special Needs Kids?

Natalie Connelly shares her experiences as a NICU nurse and a mother of children with special needs. She discusses the emotional challenges of working in the NICU, her journey from medicine to public health, and the importance of inclusion and understanding in the lives of children with special needs. The dialogue emphasizes the need for community support, the role of adults in shaping children's perceptions, and the significance of recognizing the unique strengths of every child, regardless of their challenges. In this conversation, Natalie Connelly shares her journey as a mother of children with special needs, emphasizing the importance of community, resilience, and a positive mindset. She discusses the challenges of parenting, the joy of small victories, and the need to advocate for her children's needs. Through her experiences, she highlights the beauty of friendship, the power of hope, and the importance of living in the moment while navigating the complexities of life with her children. In this conversation, Natalie Connelly shares her experiences navigating the complexities of raising children with 22q, a genetic condition. She discusses the challenges of genetic testing, the unique needs of her children, and the importance of early intervention. Natalie also delves into the dynamics of her marriage, highlighting the strain that parenting special needs children can place on relationships. She emphasizes the significance of communication and teamwork in both her marriage and interactions with educators, advocating for her children's needs in IEP meetings. Through her journey, Natalie illustrates the power of community support and the importance of being an informed advocate for her children.

#specialneeds #specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotional