Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast

Dr. Julie M. Lane, Ed.D.
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Education
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Empowered Parents Podcast; a place where families, educators, and advocates come together to support children with disabilities and the parents who champion them.

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

    11h ago

    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 Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

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

    May 31

    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 and join the EPN Collective community. #IEP #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacy #IDEA #EducationalRights #JulieMLane #EmpoweringParentsNetwork #DisabilityAdvocacy #SpecialNeedsParenting #IEPGoals #EducationalSupport #InclusiveEducation #VoicesOfEmpoweredParents #ParentEmpowerment #StudentSuccess

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

    May 24

    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 LinkedIn TikTok Instagram

    29 min
  4. You Can Request an Evaluation at Any Time | Special Educations Tips #2

    May 17

    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 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

    3 min
  5. You Are a Required Member of the IEP Team | Special Education Tips #1

    May 10

    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 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

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

    May 3

    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 Follow @empowering_parents_network

    28 min
  7. Beyond Words: Understanding Nonverbal Autism Through Love, Connection, & Representation | Thamani Tomlin

    Apr 26

    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 Follow @empowering_parents_network Thamani Tomlin: Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook “Abigail’s Song” “Abigail’s Song Coloring/Activity Book”

    28 min
  8. What Research Says About Parent Engagement in Special Education | Dr. Julie M. Lane

    Apr 19

    What Research Says About Parent Engagement in Special Education | Dr. Julie M. Lane

    Did you know that one of the biggest factors in a child’s success… is parent engagement? In this episode, we explore what current research says about the role parents play in special education, and why your involvement matters more than you may realize. We talk about: What parent engagement really means Why it impacts academic and emotional outcomes Common barriers parents face Simple, practical ways to stay involved Here’s the truth: You do not need to be an expert to advocate for your child. You just need information, support, and confidence. And that is exactly what we are building together. Listen now and step into your role as an empowered parent. Website Instagram Facebook Youtube Empowered Parents Collective

    6 min
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Welcome to the Empowered Parents Podcast; a place where families, educators, and advocates come together to support children with disabilities and the parents who champion them.

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