Exceptional Minds with RoboKind

Finding Words in Unexpected Ways: Maggie & Chet’s Story

What if communication started long before spoken words? In this heartfelt conversation, Maggie shares the story of her son, Chet, a boy with a deep love for letters, words, and language. Before consistently speaking out loud, Chet was already connecting through writing words on the fridge, arranging letters, and expressing himself in ways that were entirely his own. Maggie opens up about her journey as a parent, the small moments that became big victories, and the joy of watching communication unfold in unexpected and beautiful ways. The conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and full of reminders that there is no single “right” path for growth. This episode celebrates connection, individuality, and the many different ways students find their voice.

Webinar Crossover - More Than a Month: Dr. Lisa Kershaw on Autism, Advocacy, and Acceptance

In this special episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we’re revisiting a powerful Autism Acceptance Month conversation with Dr. Lisa Kershaw. Dr. Kershaw shares the deeply personal story that shaped her life and career: her journey as a mother to her son, Clarence, whose autism diagnosis came years after early signs first appeared. What began as a family’s search for answers became a calling. From learning in isolation, to helping teachers better understand communication, to stepping into special education and statewide autism leadership, Dr. Kershaw’s story is one of persistence, compassion, and purpose. This episode is a reminder that acceptance goes far beyond awareness. It means seeing the person first, recognizing that communication can look different, and building the kind of support systems that help students and families thrive. Watche the episode here: https://www.robokind.com/webinars/autism-acceptance [https://www.robokind.com/webinars/autism-acceptance]

Rolling with Joy: Dr. Stacy Carlock’s Skating Through School Magic

In this spirited episode of Exceptional Minds, we chat with Dr. Stacy Carlock, Director of the Ladue Early Childhood Center and self-proclaimed “Principal on skates.” With purposeful roller skating down school hallways, Stacy has turned her leadership into an everyday reminder that joy is powerful and that early learning thrives when you meet learners (and adults) on their level. A longtime advocate for the power of play, collaboration, and trust, she invites us to see how leadership, culture and fun can go hand in hand. This is a celebration of joy as an educational superpower.

Every Student, Every Day: A Leader’s Commitment to Connection

In this episode of Exceptional Minds, we sit down with Erica Jackson, a special education leader in Columbus County, North Carolina, whose passion for students with disabilities has shaped real change in her district. From expanding access to new learning tools to championing strong support systems for teachers, Erica shares what drives her, what she's learned, and what still keeps her inspired every day.

Next-Level Leadership: Joe Kwisz on Guiding Special Ed from State to National Stages

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we welcome Joe Kwisz, outgoing President of the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE) and current President-Elect of National CASE. With over sixteen years in special education administration—rising from classroom teacher and high school coach to Executive Director—Joe brings a wealth of hands-on experience. We’ll explore his ICASE leadership, his vision as he steps into the national role, and what’s driving his mission to support students and leaders at every level. Tune in for an insightful discussion on advocacy, policy, and empowering special education to go even further.