What happens when an experienced behavior analyst becomes a parent navigating his own child’s IEP journey? In this heartfelt conversation, Flor sits down with Ronald Mazik to explore how professional insight meets personal experience. Together, they unpack dyslexia, dysgraphia, functional behavior assessments (FBAs), and the emotional balance between being an advocate and a parent.In this episode:Early signs of dyslexia and dysgraphia parents should look forHow to document and request testing or an FBA effectivelyThe difference between good and bad FBAsWhat collaboration between parents and schools should really look likeWhy advocacy and empathy go hand in handGain practical insight from both sides of the IEP table, “professional and personal”, and discover how understanding, patience, and teamwork can truly change a child’s educational path.Episode 11 is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia.✨ Connect with Ronald Mazik:Website: https://sites.google.com/mazikgroup.org/siteFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ron.mazikInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rwmazik/LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronald-mazik-mba-ma-bcba-89b47b13/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mazik-group-llc/📲 Let’s Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iepFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, email: [email protected]#IEP #SpecialEducation #DyslexiaAwareness #FunctionalBehaviorAssessment #BehaviorAnalysis #LearningDisabilities #ParentAdvocate #IEPProcess #InclusiveEducation #EducationPodcast #RonaldMazik #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast #Neurodiversity #ParentSupport #IEPJourney

Episode 10: It’s Not Just a Report - It’s a Roadmap: Making Sense of Psychological EvaluationsGuest: Dr. Carey Heller - Licensed Psychologist, Certified ADHD Professional, Executive Functioning CoachWhy do some kids know exactly what to do… but still can’t seem to do it? In this episode, Flor sits down with Dr. Carey Heller, licensed psychologist, certified ADHD professional, and executive functioning coach, to unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface when children struggle with focus, follow-through, and self-management.Dr. Heller offers practical, compassionate insights for parents navigating IEPs and daily challenges, helping families understand that these struggles aren’t defiance, they’re developmental. From testing and evaluations to real-life strategies, this conversation bridges science and everyday parenting with warmth and clarity.💡 In this episode:What executive functioning actually means and why it matters beyond schoolThe “knowing - doing gap”: why kids understand expectations but can’t follow throughWhen rewards and punishments fail, and how to teach missing skills insteadSimple systems that help kids build independence and confidenceWhy progress looks different for every child (and that’s okay)The importance of parent self-care and emotional supportIf you’ve ever wondered whether your child’s challenges are behavioral or neurological, this episode will bring clarity, empathy, and practical next steps to guide you forward.🎧 Listen and discover how understanding executive functioning can transform your child’s growth, and your family’s peace of mind.Episode 10 is now streaming on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia✨ Connect with Dr. Carey Heller:Website:https://hellerpsychologygroup.com/ Instagram: @carey_heller_psy.d / @hellerpsychFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/HellerPsychology/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HellerPsychology📲 Let’s Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iepFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, email: [email protected]#ExecutiveFunctioning #ADHDParentSupport #IEPHelp...

Episode 9 - IEPs to Degrees: Becoming the Role Model I Never Had“The Brad Butler Story of Resilience and Redemption”Guest: Brad Butler II, Author, Educator, Motivational SpeakerWhat happens when a student labeled “special ed” refuses to let that define his future?In this powerful episode, Brad Butler II opens up about his 10-year journey in special education and how he transformed setbacks into purpose. From overcoming stigma to earning his master’s degree, Brad now empowers students and teachers across the nation to rise above labels and lead with heart.🌟 In this episode, you’ll learn:1️⃣ Why self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential for educators to show up fully for their students.2️⃣ How one teacher’s compassion can spark lifelong confidence in a struggling child.3️⃣ The truth about overcoming labels and rewriting your story after an IEP.4️⃣ How Brad turned rejection letters into motivation that fueled his success.5️⃣ Why “Don’t be perfect, be present” can change the way we teach and parent.If you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, Brad’s story will remind you that learning differently is not a limitation — it’s a different path to greatness.🎧 Listen to Episode 9 on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube. www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia✨ Connect with Brad and explore his resources and motivational work here:Website: https://www.bradbutler2.com/Instagram: @mr.bradbutler2TikTok: @mr.bradbutler2 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bradbutleriiFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bradbutlerII/ Facebook Motivational Speaker: https://www.facebook.com/BradButlerThe2nd/Let's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iepFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#IEPSupport #BilingualParents #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocate #BilingualEducation #ParentTips #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast #EducationMatters #ParentConfidence

Episode 8: Guiding Our Kids Beyond the IEP - Lessons in Advocacy and Growth Guest: Randi Schleider, Certified Life and ADHD/Executive Function CoachIn this empowering episode, Flor De Amelia talks with Randi Schleider, a certified coach, educator, and parent advocate who helps neurodivergent students build the skills they need to thrive in school, college, and beyond.Randi shares her personal story of raising her son, Ben, who was diagnosed with ADHD, and how early intervention, speech therapy, and occupational therapy shaped his journey. She opens up about the challenges of navigating confusing diagnoses, the heartbreak of social gaps, and the incredible transformation that happens when parents trust their instincts.Together, Flor and Randi explore: 💡 Understanding time blindness and executive functioning challenges 💡 Building self-advocacy skills before college 💡 Turning ADHD into a superpower instead of a setback 💡 Writing meaningful IEP goals that truly support progress 💡 Managing anxiety, test-taking, and emotional regulationThis episode is full of compassion, practical advice, and real encouragement for parents and educators walking the special education journey. It’s a reminder that with the right mindset, advocacy, and support, every child can shine in their own unique way.✨ Whether your child is in high school or preparing for college, this conversation will leave you inspired to see their strengths, honor their pace, and celebrate every small victory.About Randi Schleider:Randi Schleider is a certified Life and ADHD/Executive Function Coach with a B.A. in Speech Communications from the University of Maryland, College Park and a graduate of the ADD Coaching Academy (ADDCA) — the first and only comprehensive ADHD coach training program fully accredited (ACTP) by the International Coach Federation (ICF).In addition to her professional training, Randi brings deep personal insight to her work as a parent raising, supporting, and advocating for her son with ADHD. This unique blend of expertise and lived experience allows her to connect authentically with families, helping students strengthen executive function skills, build independence, and embrace their neurodivergent strengths with confidence.🎧 Listen and discover how to help your neurodivergent teen thrive in school and beyond. Episode 8 is now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia✨ Connect with Randi and explore her resources: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randi-schleider-aac-2b89523a/ Website: https://www.coachingforintent.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/randi.schleiderLet’s Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.🌐 Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/💻 Website: https://www.flordeamelia.com🔗...

Episode 7: How Assistive Technology Unlocks Kids’ IndependenceGuest: Joan Green, Licensed and Certified Speech-Language PathologistWhen it comes to communication, the right tool can change everything. In this episode, Flor sits down with Joan Green, a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, assistive technology specialist and founder of InnovativeSpeech.com, to explore how assistive technology can open doors for children and adults alike.Joan shares powerful insights on using tech tools and affordable AAC apps to help kids express themselves and grow in independence. From iPad features to AI-powered supports like VOICITT, she explains how parents and educators can bring more engagement, joy, and accessibility into learning and daily life.💡 In this episode:What assistive technology really means for familiesHow simple tools like speech-to-text and AAC apps can transform communicationFree and low-cost tech options to support kids with communication challengesWhy assistive technology should always be part of the IEP conversationHow parents can start feeling confident using tech to empower their childrenIf you’ve ever felt unsure where to begin with assistive tech, this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and practical next steps.🎧 Listen and discover how technology can truly unlock your child’s voice and independence. Episode 7 is now also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube.YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia✨ Connect with Joan and explore her resources:Website: https://innovativespeech.com/Instagram: @joanlipmangreenhttps://www.facebook.com/Innovative.Speech.TherapyLet's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iepFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#AssistiveTechnology #AACApps #SpecialEducation #SpeechTherapy #ParentAdvocate #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast #IEPSupport #AutismAwareness #ParentingSpecialNeeds #CommunicationMatters #InnovativeSpeech #ParentConfidence

Episode 6: “Life Beyond the IEP: Preparing Kids with Autism for Adulthood”Guest: Dr. Sylvie Nguena, Ph.D., BCBAWhat happens when a parent hears “your child doesn’t qualify for services”? How do you prepare your child for life after school when adulthood feels terrifyingly close?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Sylvie Nguena, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and mom of a young adult with autism. Sylvie shares her remarkable journey, from leaving her accounting career to pursuing a Ph.D. in Applied Behavior Analysis, all to understand and support her daughter, Meghan.Dr. Sylvie opens up about:✅ The heartbreaking moment she was denied DDA services and how she fought back and won✅ Why she shifted her daughter’s IEP from academics to life skills and independence✅ The emotional toll of meltdowns and IEP meetings and how Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) helped her regain control✅ The game-changing decision to hire an advocate and transform her daughter’s IEP✅ How she’s preparing her daughter for adulthood with job skills, daily living goals, and community inclusionIf you’ve ever felt exhausted, overwhelmed, or scared about your child’s future after high school, this episode will give you hope, clarity, and practical strategies to take action today.🎧 Listen to Episode 6 now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube! 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia🔗 Connect with Dr. Sylvie and explore her work: 📖 Marvelous Meghan, Our Big Sister (Book): https://www.amazon.com/Marvelous-Meghan-Our-Big-Sister/dp/B0CLMLFYGS 📖 Marvelous Meghan, Our Big Sister (Coloring Book): https://www.amazon.com/Marvelous-Meghan-Sister-Coloring-Book/dp/B0CNV4W3GRFacebook: Marvelous Meghanhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552243797305💬 Let’s Connect! Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share practical tips and resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my platforms. 🌐 Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/ 🌐 Website: https://www.flordeamelia.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iep 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEP 📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/ 📌 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/📧 For content collaborations, email me at [email protected]#IEPSupport #AutismMom #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocate #LifeSkills #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast #ParentSupport #DDA #AutismAwareness #ParentingSpecialNeeds #IEPMeeting #TransitionPlanning

Episode 5: Empowering Bilingual Parents with their IEPGuest: Sandy Santeiro, Bilingual IEP CoachWhat unique challenges do bilingual parents face when navigating the IEP process? How can families advocate for their children with confidence, even when language and cultural barriers exist?In this episode, I sit down with bilingual IEP coach Sandy Santeiro, who shares her powerful journey as a parent and advocate. From being told her son “wasn’t messed up enough” to qualify for services, to building a platform that helps parents navigate special education, Sandy brings both personal experience and professional expertise to the conversation.Sandy opens up about: ✅ Why IEPs go beyond academics and prepare children for adulthood ✅ The critical role of interpreters and documentation for bilingual families ✅ Common misconceptions schools have when working with migrant and bilingual parents ✅ Practical strategies for parents to prepare for and succeed in IEP meetings ✅ How advocacy can shift the balance of power and bring real change for familiesIf you’re a parent, educator, or advocate looking to better understand IEPs through a bilingual lens, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and tools you can put into action right away.🎧 Listen to Episode 5 now also on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch on YouTube. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia🔗 Connect with Sandy and explore her resources: Instagram: @sandysanteiro.iep Website: https://sandysanteiro.com/Let's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/starting-with-iepFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#IEPSupport #BilingualParents #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocate #BilingualEducation #ParentTips #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast #EducationMatters #ParentConfidence

Episode 4: Behind the Table — Perspectives from a Special EducatorGuest: Veronica Karwoski, Educational TherapistWhat really happens behind the scenes before an IEP meeting? How can teachers and parents work together to support struggling readers? In this episode, I sit down with educational therapist and former special education teacher Veronica Karwoski to explore these questions and more.Veronica shares her journey from 10 years in the classroom to building her own practice, why she pursued Orton-Gillingham training, and how she empowers teachers and parents to find resources and advocate for their students. We talk about:✅ What case managers do to prepare for an IEP meeting✅ Practical advice for new reading intervention teachers✅ How parents can request data and work samples to better understand their child’s progress✅ The importance of advocacy and systemic change in special education✅ Why parent-school collaboration is key to creating meaningful IEPsIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the IEP process or underprepared to support students with dyslexia, this conversation will give you clarity, encouragement, and practical next steps.Watch Episode 4 now on YouTube.Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@FlorDeAmelia🔗 Connect with Veronica and access the free resources mentioned in this episode: Website: www.growtheducationtherapy.com/readinginterventionInstagram: @growtheducationtherapyLet's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flordeamelia/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StartingWithIEPInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#DyslexiaAwareness #ADHDsupport #SpecialEducation #TeacherTips #ParentAdvocate #LiteracyMatters #IEPSupport #EducationMatters #FlorDeAmeliaPodcast

When I first began advocating, I quickly realized that not all IEP goals are created equal. Some move our children forward, while others just fill space on a page. In this episode, I sit down with advocate and educator Heather Knickerbocker, who brings over 20 years of experience in special education. She shares openly about how to create goals that truly matter, goals that shape growth, independence, and a meaningful future.Heather’s insights will help if you’ve ever felt: ✨ Unsure if your child’s IEP goals are meaningful or “cookie cutter” ✨ Frustrated by vague goals that don’t lead to real progress ✨ Confused about how data should drive decisions in your child’s planThis conversation reminded me and I hope it reminds you that IEP goals aren’t just paperwork. They’re a roadmap to independence and dignity. 💜 📥 Don’t forget to grab your FREE IEP Prep Pack here: Comment GOALS 💬 Have you ever walked away from an IEP meeting wondering if the goals really mattered? I’d love to hear your story.Let's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flordeamelia/Facebook: http://facebook.com/flordeameliaebs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/ For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#StartingWithIEP #SpecialNeedsParenting #ParentAdvocate #SpecialEducation #IEPGoals #ParentingJourney #SpecialNeedsAwareness

Episode 2: The Emotional Toll of Advocacy with Missy Purcell | Starting with IEP PodcastAdvocating for your child in the special education system takes more than persistence—it takes heart. In this episode, I sit down with parent advocate Missy Purcell to talk about the emotional toll that comes with constantly fighting for our kids.Missy opens up about her own journey, including: 💜 How schools brushed off her early concerns with excuses like “he’s a boy” or “he’ll catch up” 💜 The guilt and exhaustion she felt when labeled “too much” in IEP meetings 💜 Why she co-founded a parent advocacy group to give families a stronger voice 💜 Practical advice for parents who feel overwhelmed and alone in this processThis conversation is raw, real, and full of hope. If you’ve ever felt unseen in an IEP meeting, I promise you’ll connect with Missy’s story.📥 Free Resource for Parents: Download your FREE IEP Toolkit here → A Parent's Starter Toolkit💬 Join the conversation: What’s been the hardest part of your advocacy journey? Comment below! We’d love to hear your story.Let's Connect!Turn IEP stress into confidence. I share useful resources every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday across all my social media platforms.Podcast Website: http://www.startingwithiep.com/Website: https://www.flordeamelia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flordeamelia/Facebook: http://facebook.com/flordeameliaebs Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/flordeameliahoffman/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flordeamelia_ebs/For content collaborations, please email me at [email protected]#StartingWithIEP #ParentAdvocate #SpecialEducation #IEP #ParentingJourney #SpecialNeedsParenting #Advocacy