The UNspecial Podcast

UNspecial LLC

Are you a parent raising a child with special needs? Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure where to turn for guidance and encouragement? Welcome to The Unspecial Podcast, dedicated to empowering and inspiring parents like you on your unique journey. Each week, we bring you heartfelt conversations with a diverse range of guests who offer invaluable insights and personal stories. Hear directly from individuals with special needs who share their triumphs, challenges, and perspectives on living fulfilling lives. We'll also sit down with parents who've walked similar paths, offering practical advice, emotional support, and the wisdom gained from their experiences. But that's not all. We'll connect with dedicated educators who provide strategies for navigating the school system and fostering your child's learning. Plus, we'll feature leading experts—from therapists and medical professionals to advocates and researchers—who will equip you with evidence-based information, innovative tools, and a deeper understanding of various special needs. The UNspecial Podcast is more than just a podcast; it's a community. It's a place where you'll find encouragement to face challenges head-on, inspiration to celebrate every milestone, and the practical knowledge you need to advocate effectively for your child. Join us as we explore the rich and diverse world of special needs, fostering a sense of connection, understanding, and unwavering hope.

  1. 5D AGO

    Healing Beyond Fear: A Conversation on Medical Freedom and Empowerment

    The episode opens by challenging fear-based medical control and arguing that parents should be allowed to question, think, and choose without being labeled “misinformation,” framing the conversation as pro-healing rather than anti-medicine. Host Zach welcomes Dr. Stanton Hom, a neurologically focused chiropractor and director at Future Generations Chiropractic, and they discuss Zach’s family’s experience of “miracles,” including improvements in his children after prolonged stress and trauma, with specific examples like reduced allergy flare-ups and major social and emotional changes in his son “Jack 2.0,” who had significant early-life medical complications and NICU time. Visit our website: www.unspecialllc.com#specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotional👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    58 min
  2. FEB 9

    Mold, Mitochondria, and Miracles: Kelly’s Story of Autism Recovery

    In this special podcast episode, the host is joined by Kelly Carlson, an autism mother known as I am Kelly Leanne on Instagram. Together, they discuss how mold exposure has significantly impacted Kelly's life and her son’s health, leading to his autism diagnosis. Kelly shares the traumatic experiences of her pregnancy, her son's premature birth, NICU stay, and subsequent health challenges. They explore the connection between mold and autism, detailing Kelly's process of discovering mold in her home and the steps she has taken towards healing her son, including various therapies and lifestyle changes. Kelly's story sheds light on the struggles and resilience of parents caring for autistic children, the importance of environmental factors in health, and the need for greater awareness and support for affected families. 00:00 - Introduction00:45 - Introduction of Kelly Carlson02:00 - Topic introduction: Mold and Autism04:00 - Kelly's Background and Pregnancy Challenges08:00 - NICU Experience and Early Symptoms11:00 - Initial Signs of Autism and Early Intervention16:00 - Discovery of Mold in the Home24:00 - Health Symptoms Related to Mold Exposure28:00 - Testing for Mold and Mycotoxins32:00 - Relocating and Temporary Housing Challenges38:00 - Positive Changes Since Moving Out42:00 - Dealing with Financial Strain46:00 - Emotional and Mental Coping Strategies51:00 - Societal Perceptions and Judgment56:00 - Advocacy and Awareness60:00 - Importance of Self-Care Visit our website: www.unspecialllc.com#specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotional👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    1h 13m
  3. FEB 2

    A New Voice at HHS: Tracy Slepcevic & Zach Ponder on Autism, Health, and Change

    Navigating Autism and Health with Tracy Slepcevic | The Unspecial Podcast In this episode of the Unspecial Podcast, host Zach is joined by Tracy Slepcevic, a certified integrative health practitioner, speaker, and bestselling author. Tracy shares her journey of healing her son with autism through various treatments and therapies. They discuss the challenges faced in the early stages of autism, the importance of addressing underlying conditions, and the role of biomedical interventions. Tracy also talks about her nonprofit organization, Autism Health, and the Autism Health Summit, emphasizing the importance of community support and the power of persistence in seeking solutions. Listeners will hear insights on navigating IEPs, the impact of diet and gut health, and the broader implications of medical and environmental factors on autism. Chapters. 00:00 Introduction to the Unspecial Podcast 00:55 Tracy's Impact on My Family 04:09 Noah's Early Diagnosis and Struggles 08:54 Journey of Healing and Biomedical Interventions 15:33 Noah's Life Today 25:25 Challenges and Perspectives on Autism 34:10 Understanding Programming Susceptibility 34:55 Addressing News Exposure in Schools 36:29 Navigating the IEP Process 39:46 Challenges with Paraeducators 42:17 Transition to Homeschooling 47:23 Starting the Autism Health Summit 52:49 Upcoming Autism Health Conference 57:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Visit our website: www.unspecialllc.com#specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotional👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    1h 3m
  4. JAN 26

    Special Needs, Special Planning: Financial Insights with Rhett Beal.

    This podcast episode centers on practical financial advice for parents of children with special needs. Zach, the host, invites Rt Beal, Vice President of Van Holes Financial Advisors, to discuss his journey and expertise in financial planning for the special needs community. Rt shares his own connection to the community through his brother-in-law and dives into the intricacies of creating a financial plan that includes both private and public resources. He also covers the common struggles parents face, such as lack of a plan, feeling overwhelmed, and the emotional challenge of planning for their child's future without them. The episode highlights the importance of specialized financial planners and understanding the balance between private financial resources and public benefits. It also touches on the psychological and emotional support that comes from financial planning, offering advice on insurance, government benefits, and stewardship of finances from a faith-based perspective.2:15 - Rhett Beal's Background and Connection to Special Needs6:30 - The Start of Rhett's Special Needs Financial Planning12:40 - Importance of Financial Planning for Special Needs Families15:55 - Rhett's Personal Story and Insights from His Brother-in-law23:10 - Impact of Financial Planning on Special Needs Communities28:30 - Common Challenges and Starting Points for Financial Planning32:00 - Differences Between Conventional and Special Needs Financial Planning37:00 - Government Benefits and Special Needs Trusts43:40 - Importance of Work and Independence for Special Needs Individuals50:20 - Role of Insurance in Financial Planning55:10 - Personal Success Stories and Relief Provided by Financial Planning1:00:00 - Mindset Shifts: From Scarcity to Abundance1:04:30 - Saver, Spender, Steward: Developing the Right Financial Mindset1:09:40 - Essential Qualities to Look for in a Financial Advisor1:14:00 - Rhett's Advice to Special Needs Parents: Asking the Right Questions1:18:50 - Conclusion and Ways to Connect with Rhett BealVisit our website: www.unspecialllc.com #specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth #emotional 👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    1h 1m
  5. JAN 19

    Healing Autism with Gut Health: An Inspiring Journey with Chelsea Jules

    In this episode of the Unspecial podcast, the host interviews Chelsea Jules, a holistic school psychologist and autism, nutrition, and gut healing specialist. Chelsea shares her personal journey of addressing her twin boys' severe nonverbal autism through dietary interventions. She details the initial challenges, the role of environmental factors over genetics, and the impact of gut health on behavior and speech development. Chelsea also explains how her program 'Six Months to Speech' assists families in implementing holistic strategies for autism recovery. The discussion emphasizes the importance of parental hope, community support, and maintaining a positive mindset throughout the journey. Chapters 02:15 Chelsea’s background as a school psychologist and the early signs of autism in her twins.05:40 Chelsea’s challenging pregnancy and complications during the twins' early years, including issues with antibiotics and vaccines.12:30 The turning point: noticing severe regression in her twins after vaccines.17:10 The struggle and emotional impact of realizing her children’s condition.21:00 The big shift: transitioning from traditional methods to a holistic approach focusing on gut health.24:20 Challenges faced when changing dietary habits and navigating gluten and dairy-free diets. 28:00 Results of dietary changes and early signs of progress in her children.33:30 The significance of gut health in behavior and overall well-being.38:40 Current progress and milestones achieved by her children, including speaking and improved motor skills.45:15 The birth of the 'Six Months to Speech' program and its impact on the community.52:30 The journey of establishing social media platforms for documenting and sharing her experiences.58:00 Addressing critics and common misconceptions about autism and holistic treatments.01:05:15 The personal impact and growth Chelsea experienced through her journey.01:10:20 Final advice for parents facing similar challenges and the importance of hope and community support. 👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/ 👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    1h 6m
  6. JAN 12

    Beyond Autism: Empowering Families Through Biomedical Interventions

    In this episode of the Unspecial Podcast, hosts Zach and returning guest Becky Lynn Davila discuss the complexities of autism treatment, focusing on the intersection of support, recovery, and holistic health approaches. Becky, a certified holistic health practitioner and autism health coach, shares her journey of helping her own child recover from autism and extending that support to over 400 families worldwide. The conversation addresses the polarized views within the autism community, the need for both acceptance and active health interventions, and the importance of addressing underlying health issues through biomedical treatments. Becky emphasizes that improvements in areas like gut health, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function can lead to significant behavioral and developmental progress. Additionally, she underlines the necessity of personalized care, realistic expectations for gradual progress, and the importance of spreading awareness about these treatment options. The discussion also critiques the mainstream medical community's handling of autism, advocating for broader insurance coverage and professional referrals to specialized functional medicine practitioners. 03:00 Bridging the Gap in Autism Treatment06:45 The Polarized Views on Autism Recovery10:15 The Role of Functional Medicine in Autism14:30 Personal Stories of Recovery and Improvement18:50 Challenges of Lab Testing and Individualized Treatment23:30 The Importance of Gut Health in Autism27:15 Setting Realistic Expectations for Biomedical Treatment31:40 Success Stories and Real-Life Examples36:20 The Limitations of Conventional Pediatricians41:00 The Role of Methylation and Supplements45:10 The Financial and Emotional Investment in Autism Treatment49:25 Combining Biomedical and Therapeutic Approaches53:00 The Broader Impact of Functional Medicine57:50 Becky’s Consulting Services and Approach1:02:30 Recommendations for New Autism Parents1:06:45 Hopes for the Future of Autism Treatment1:11:00 Closing Remarks and Contact Information 👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/ 👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    55 min
  7. JAN 5

    Experiencing Miracles Through Neurologically Focused Chiropractic

    The conversation delves into the impact of nervous system dysregulation on health, highlighting the limitations of outside-in interventions and the role of lifestyle and environment in nervous system health. It also explores the birth and impact of PX Docs, Dr. Tony Ebel's journey into pediatric chiropractic care, the miraculous recovery of Oliver from a hypoxic brain injury, and the challenges and triumphs of navigating pediatric care while building a supportive community. The conversation delves into the diverse approaches in chiropractic care, including standard spinal musculoskeletal structural-based chiropractic, neurologically focused subluxation-based chiropractic, and functional neurology chiropractic. It highlights the impact of chiropractic care on the nervous system, challenges and results of functional neurology chiropractic, perceptions and education in chiropractic care, the importance of the nervous system in special needs cases, community engagement and family-centered care, effects and changes in chiropractic care, restoring hope and empowerment, and accessing resources and community engagement. Takeaways Nervous system dysregulation impacts healthThe power of chiropractic care in pediatric cases Chiropractic care encompasses a range of approaches, including standard spinal musculoskeletal structural-based chiropractic, neurologically focused subluxation-based chiropractic, and functional neurology chiropractic.Chiropractic care can have a profound impact on the nervous system, leading to improvements in various neurophysiological dysfunctions and conditions. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Nervous System Dysregulation09:58 The Journey to Pediatric Chiropractic Care17:58 The Miracle of Oliver's Recovery24:58 Navigating Challenges and Building Community32:01 Diverse Approaches in Chiropractic Care37:08 Challenges and Results of Functional Neurology Chiropractic46:20 Community Engagement and Family-Centered Care53:40 Effects and Changes in Chiropractic Care01:02:09 Accessing Resources and Community Engagement👉 For more personal content, check us our on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unspecialllc/ 👉 If you haven't yet, make sure you read Special Dayz, a book about Zack's special education journey: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Dayz-Finding-God-Education/dp/B0FB2MXLGG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=3FXJ0P30N2DSA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XD98iO1ekOJzKB8AjmbMFT5SvQFaevPs3HnMM5a3sRuQA01jFDzyydaDbLlghmOjd66qy3Kyoanyq4Mrlx8dRoYT8BxFDVDqvjTeeh3Ok7I4yNgCX9b6hqfC0ck8nkszhVxwj7KWnIe2uhbCFL-k4LpHDv2DB36pjedqblmGD4s_olQEymMD_6OJ-6-ZAMoAA4P5uhrsmwLiuQtw3BLWQQ.2Kj7exdzRcLqdAPom-W4FlvFJYd4rmKLl39yIWSe7Ls&dib_tag=se&keywords=special+dayz&qid=1751127945&sprefix=special+dayz%2Caps%2C214&sr=8-1

    1h 4m
  8. 12/27/2025

    Kaylee Rine's Inspiring Journey

    The conversation covers the introduction to the podcast, the journey of co-hosting, the discovery of neuro-focused chiropractic care, the impact and improvements seen from chiropractic care, personal experiences with chiropractic care, the various therapies used, the decision to homeschool, and the challenges of schooling and parental anxiety when dealing with a child with autism. The conversation delves into the challenges within the school system, the impact of undertrained staff, and the topic of vaccine hesitancy and regret. The speakers discuss their experiences and insights, shedding light on the difficulties faced by students and parents within the education system, as well as the emotional impact of vaccine-related decisions. The conversation delves into the role of faith as a source of strength, the life-changing moment of finding faith, navigating marriage amidst challenges, shifting perspectives and finding hope, the journey of acceptance and hope, supporting children and finding hope, and trusting in God's plan. Takeaways Neuro-focused chiropractic care for children with autismThe challenges and decisions involved in homeschooling a child with autism Challenges in the school systemImpact of undertrained staffVaccine hesitancy and regret Faith as a source of strengthNavigating marriage amidst challenges Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting05:04 Personal Experience with Chiropractic Care19:52 Challenges of Schooling and Parental Anxiety25:32 Challenges in the School System48:41 Vaccine Hesitancy and Regret59:31 Finding Strength in Faith01:05:15 Shifting Perspectives and Hope01:17:24 Supporting Children and Finding Hope01:28:16 Trusting in God's Plan

    1h 30m

About

Are you a parent raising a child with special needs? Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed, isolated, or unsure where to turn for guidance and encouragement? Welcome to The Unspecial Podcast, dedicated to empowering and inspiring parents like you on your unique journey. Each week, we bring you heartfelt conversations with a diverse range of guests who offer invaluable insights and personal stories. Hear directly from individuals with special needs who share their triumphs, challenges, and perspectives on living fulfilling lives. We'll also sit down with parents who've walked similar paths, offering practical advice, emotional support, and the wisdom gained from their experiences. But that's not all. We'll connect with dedicated educators who provide strategies for navigating the school system and fostering your child's learning. Plus, we'll feature leading experts—from therapists and medical professionals to advocates and researchers—who will equip you with evidence-based information, innovative tools, and a deeper understanding of various special needs. The UNspecial Podcast is more than just a podcast; it's a community. It's a place where you'll find encouragement to face challenges head-on, inspiration to celebrate every milestone, and the practical knowledge you need to advocate effectively for your child. Join us as we explore the rich and diverse world of special needs, fostering a sense of connection, understanding, and unwavering hope.