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

The Mental Health of Parents: Grief, Healing, & the Weight Families Carry | Shandjia Hoq

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes mental health counselor Shanjida Hoq for a thoughtful conversation about caregiving, grief, emotional resilience, and the mental well-being of parents raising children with disabilities and special needs. Together, they discuss family dynamics, sibling relationships, learned helplessness, grounding practices, and the importance of helping parents feel seen and supported in their journey. Website [http://www.shanjidahoq.com/]

Your Rights Don’t End When You Disagree | Special Education Tips #4

Disagreement during the IEP process does not mean you are being difficult—it means you are engaged. In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane discusses procedural safeguards under IDEA and the protections available to parents when concerns arise. From prior written notice to mediation and due process, families have rights that matter. You do not have to make rushed decisions. You can pause, review, ask questions, and seek support before signing. Advocacy is not conflict. Advocacy is clarity. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] and join the EPN Collective community for resources and support. #SpecialEducation #IDEA #ParentAdvocacy #ProceduralSafeguards #IEP #EducationalRights #JulieMLane #EmpoweringParentsNetwork #SpecialNeedsParenting #DisabilityAdvocacy #ParentSupport #InclusiveEducation #VoicesOfEmpoweredParents #EducationLaw #ParentEmpowerment

The Power of Respite Care: Supporting Families Through Community & Connection | Brian Bosma

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Brian Bosma, Executive Director of Family Respite Care of Nevada. Together, they discuss the growing need for disability resources in Nevada, the importance of respite care for caregivers, and how community-centered support can strengthen families and provide children with a true sense of belonging. Website [http://www.frcnevada.org/] Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/FamilyRespiteCareofNV/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/familyrespitecareofnv/?hl=en] LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/family-respite-care-of-nevada/]

If It’s Not in the IEP, It Doesn’t Exist | Special Education Tips #3

In this episode, Dr. Julie M. Lane explains why documentation matters in special education and how written commitments protect students and families. Verbal promises may sound reassuring, but only what is included in the IEP is legally enforceable. Understanding this shift can change the way you approach meetings and advocacy. Ask questions. Seek clarity. Make sure supports are documented. Learn more at empoweringparentsnetwork.org [http://empoweringparentsnetwork.org] and join the EPN Collective community. #IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy #IDEA #EducationalRights #JulieMLane #EmpoweringParentsNetwork #DisabilityAdvocacy #SpecialNeedsParenting #IEPGoals #EducationalSupport #InclusiveEducation #VoicesOfEmpoweredParents #ParentEmpowerment #StudentSuccess

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/]