51 episodes

Kids of color who have ADHD and other common learning differences often face a double stigma. But there’s a lot that families can do to address the opportunity gap in our communities. Host Julian Saavedra is a father of two. He's also an assistant principal who has spent nearly 20 years working in public schools. Join Saavedra as he talks with parents and experts and offers tips to help you advocate for your child.

Understood is a nonprofit and social impact organization dedicated to shaping a world where the 1 in 5 people who learn and think differently can thrive. Learn more about The Opportunity Gap and check out more podcasts from the Understood Podcast Network at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2022 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Opportunity Gap Understood.org

    • Kids & Family

Kids of color who have ADHD and other common learning differences often face a double stigma. But there’s a lot that families can do to address the opportunity gap in our communities. Host Julian Saavedra is a father of two. He's also an assistant principal who has spent nearly 20 years working in public schools. Join Saavedra as he talks with parents and experts and offers tips to help you advocate for your child.

Understood is a nonprofit and social impact organization dedicated to shaping a world where the 1 in 5 people who learn and think differently can thrive. Learn more about The Opportunity Gap and check out more podcasts from the Understood Podcast Network at u.org/podcasts. Copyright © 2022 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    IEPs and English language learners

    IEPs and English language learners

    The IEP process can leave English language learners and their families with lots of questions. But the more families know about the purpose of IEPs, the more involved they can be in getting their child the best support.

    In this episode, we speak with Juliana Urtubey. Juliana is a special education teacher. She was named the 2021 National Teacher of the Year. Listen as Juliana explains:
    - Challenges English language learners face during the IEP process
    - Why culturally responsive IEPs are important
    - And ways parents can actively participate in supporting their child

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.
    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 28 min
    What teachers want parents to know

    What teachers want parents to know

    Teachers play a huge role in shaping the future of their students. And they often wear many hats in the classroom to provide the best learning experience for kids. Especially kids with learning and thinking differences.  

    In this episode, we speak with Kareem Neal, MA. Kareem is a special education teacher in Phoenix, Arizona. And he’s been teaching for more than 25 years. Listen as Kareem gives a glimpse into the classroom and explains:

    - The importance of partnership between teachers and parents
    - The impact this relationship has on kids
    - And what he wants parents to know about special education.

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 35 min
    In It: Olympian Michelle Carter talks ADHD and dyslexia

    In It: Olympian Michelle Carter talks ADHD and dyslexia

    Michelle Carter believes sports can be a big help for kids with learning differences. She’s an athlete and a businessperson. And track and field was a game-changer for her ADHD and dyslexia.

    In this episode, listen as Michelle talks about the challenges she faced in the classroom and on the field. How she discovered her talents in track and field. And then learn how she's helping kids build confidence.

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 29 min
    Social media and toxic myths about ADHD

    Social media and toxic myths about ADHD

    ADHD has gotten a lot of attention on social media lately. From videos about personal experiences to experts sharing tips, some posts hold truth, but many are misleading.

    In this episode of “The Opportunity Gap,” we take a closer look at the influence social media has on toxic myths about ADHD. Listen as Dr. Kristin Carothers, a clinical psychologist, explains:
    -The dangers of myths and misinformation
    -How myths lead to increasing stigma and shame
    -Ways parents can do their part in debunking these myths

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 39 min
    Growing up with ADHD: An interview with René Brooks

    Growing up with ADHD: An interview with René Brooks

    René Brooks was diagnosed with ADHD twice during her childhood. But stigma and shame kept her family from learning more and getting her the right support. So when she was diagnosed with ADHD for a third time at age 25, she decided to take control of her own journey. 

    In this episode, René unpacks her experiences growing up with ADHD. Listen as she explains: 

    -The impact of delayed intervention
    -What she wishes the adults in her life did differently
    -And why it’s important to build support systems for kids with ADHD

    Visit the episode page for a transcript and links to helpful resources.

    We’d love to hear from you. Write to us at opportunitygap@understood.org.

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 24 min
    Understanding the IEP process

    Understanding the IEP process

    It’s common for parents to wonder how the IEP process works and how to best advocate for their child’s needs. The truth is, the more parents know about IEPs and how they’re put into place, the more active a role they can take in the process.

    In this episode, Julian speaks with IEP expert Jamilah F. Bashir, MEd. Listen as Jamilah explains:
    -What the IEP process looks like
    -Common challenges families of color often experience when advocating for their child
    -And ways schools and families can build positive relationships

    Understood.org is a nonprofit focused on shaping the world for difference so the millions of people with learning and thinking differences can thrive. Learn more about “The Opportunity Gap” and all our podcasts at u.org/podcasts.

    Copyright © 2024 Understood for All, Inc. All rights reserved.

    • 26 min

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