Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast

Compassionate Behavior Support: Building Trust, Independence, & Collaboration | Lisa Gurdin

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Lisa Gurdin, a behavior consultant and parent coach with more than 25 years of experience supporting students, families, and school professionals. Together, they discuss contemporary ABA, compassionate care, neurodiversity-affirming support, and how parents can collaborate with schools while strengthening relationships at home. Website [http://www.lsgurdinconsulting.com/] LinkedIn [http://www.linkedin.com/in/lsgurdinconsulting] TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@lsgurdin_consulting] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lsgurdinconsulting/]

You Can Request an Evaluation at Any Time | Special Educations Tips #2

Did you know you can request a special education evaluation at any time? In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains your rights under IDEA, including the school’s obligation to identify and evaluate students who may need support. If you have been told to “wait and see,” this conversation is for you. One written request can begin the process and create accountability. Your voice matters. Your advocacy matters. And early action matters. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] and join the EPN Collective for additional support and resources. #SpecialEducation #ChildFind #IDEA #ParentAdvocacy #EducationalRights #IEP #JulieMLane #EmpoweringParentsNetwork #SpecialNeedsParenting #DisabilitySupport #ParentEmpowerment #EducationMatters #VoicesOfEmpoweredParents #StudentSupport #InclusiveEducation

You Are a Required Member of the IEP Team | Special Education Tips #1

Many parents walk into IEP meetings feeling like decisions have already been made. But under IDEA, you are not a guest at the table—you are a required member of the IEP team. In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains why your voice matters, how federal law protects your role, and what you can do to advocate with clarity and confidence during meetings. Your perspective is not extra. It is essential. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] and join the EPN Collective for support, resources, and community. #IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy #IDEA #EmpoweredParents #JulieMLane #SpecialNeedsParenting #ParentRights #IEPMeeting #DisabilityAdvocacy #EmpoweringParentsNetwork #InclusiveEducation #VoicesOfEmpoweredParents #EducationalAdvocacy #ParentsMatter

From Labels to Understanding; Rethinking Behavior, Needs, & the Power of Support in Early Childhood | Evelyn Knight

What happens when we stop labeling children and start understanding them? In this episode of the Empowered Parent Podcast, Dr. Julie M. Lane speaks with Evelyn Knight; child care leader, two-time TEDx speaker, and founder of Child Care Business Professionals. With decades of experience in early childhood education, Evelyn shares powerful insights on what children truly need to thrive and why supporting the adults in their lives is essential. This conversation explores: The impact of labeling children and how it shapes outcomes; Why behavior is often a reflection of unmet needs; The importance of research-based, inclusive early childhood practices; How one supportive adult can change the trajectory of a child’s life; And how parents and educators can work together to better serve children. Evelyn also shares deeply personal experiences that shaped her mission; reminding us that every child deserves to be seen, understood, and supported. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] Follow @empowering_parents_network [https://www.instagram.com/empowering_parents_network]

Beyond Words: Understanding Nonverbal Autism Through Love, Connection, & Representation | Thamani Tomlin

What if communication isn’t about words, but about connection? In this episode of the Empowered Parent Podcast, Dr. Julie M. Lane sits down with Thamani Tomlin—mother, author, and advocate—to discuss her journey raising a nonverbal daughter with autism. Thamani shares the inspiration behind her book, Abigail’s Song, and the importance of representation, cultural awareness, and understanding communication beyond speech. This conversation explores what it means to truly see, understand, and support children who communicate differently, while also highlighting the strength and purpose within families navigating this journey. Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] Follow @empowering_parents_network Thamani Tomlin: Website [https://centralhealing.org/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/centralhealing1/] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/thamani-tomlin-460833398/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089183776718] “Abigail’s Song” [https://a.co/d/0bM35KVH] “Abigail’s Song Coloring/Activity Book” [https://a.co/d/09olCmeP]