The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group

Jeffrey Zielinski
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education

The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group is a special needs and disability podcast for parents, caregivers, families, professionals, and anyone looking for honest conversations, practical resources, and real-life perspectives. We explore special needs parenting, disabilities, IEPs and special education, occupational therapy, speech therapy, ABA, DIR/Floortime, sensory processing, parent coaching, transition planning, advocacy, inclusion, and the everyday realities families experience along the way. But this isn’t just an educational podcast. Some episodes bring in professionals and experts to help make complicated topics easier to understand. Others center lived experience, parent perspectives, personal stories, and the lessons we learn through our own journeys. And sometimes, we simply sit down and talk — openly and casually — about parenting, family, challenges, progress, and life. Our goal isn’t to tell families what to do or pretend we have all the answers. It’s to ask good questions, connect people with useful information and resources, share different perspectives, and create a community where people can learn from one another. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, preparing for an IEP meeting, exploring therapies and services, advocating for your child, supporting someone with a disability, or simply looking for a community that understands — there’s a place for you here. The Branch Network Podcast is produced by The Serviceberry Group, where we’re working to build connections, provide resources, and create a stronger community for individuals with disabilities and the families who love and support them. Conversations. Resources. Real Life Solutions.

  1. 2d ago

    The "Eight" Senses

    The conversation explores the eight senses, focusing on the traditional five senses and the additional three: vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive systems. Lexi Disbrow and Jeffrey Zielinski discuss the importance of understanding these sensory systems in relation to children, particularly those with special needs, and how they impact behavior and communication. The conversation explores the complexities of helping children understand their sensory systems and communicate their needs effectively. It emphasizes the importance of parental involvement, patience, and the gradual process of building a child's confidence and autonomy in navigating sensory experiences. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Five Senses07:58 The Importance of Sensory Awareness17:57 Understanding Sensory Regulation21:59 Diving into the Three Additional Senses35:50 Navigating Sensory Systems37:07 Building Communication and Autonomy39:43 Overcoming Fears and Challenges47:12 The Role of Parents in Sensory Development49:42 Practical Strategies for Home53:37 Trial and Error in Parenting57:47 Collaborative Approaches to Therapy

  2. Oct 2

    Coffee Talk! School is Back in Session!

    In this conversation, Jeffrey and Renee discuss the ups and downs of parenting, particularly focusing on their experiences with their children as they navigate back to school life. They share humorous anecdotes, insights on communication, and the challenges of understanding their children's behaviors. They explore coping strategies, family traditions, and seasonal activities, emphasizing the importance of grace and understanding in their parenting journeys. They emphasize the value of shared experiences and open conversations to empower parents and foster connections. Takeaways Parenting challenges are universalCommunication logs are essential Parenting challenges are universalCoping strategies for kids' behaviors Parenting challenges with special needsImportance of community support Chapters 00:00 Coffee Talk and Parenting Chaos02:58 Back to School Experiences06:10 Repetitive Conversations and Stimming08:53 Understanding Communication Logs11:58 Navigating School Communication14:57 Panic and Parenting Fears20:57 Finding Grace in Parenting24:08 Understanding Kids' Behaviors26:54 Coping Mechanisms for Children28:18 Halloween Planning and Family Activities30:16 Apple Picking and Seasonal Changes32:05 Family Gatherings and Traditions33:28 Cooking and Food Preferences39:30 Navigating Mealtime Challenges41:59 Overwhelmed by Parenting Responsibilities43:59 Finding Support in Community48:01 Empowerment Through Shared Experiences52:02 The Value of Open Conversations56:00 Future Ideas and Collaborations

  3. Sep 11

    Parent Coaching: Walking Along This Journey With You

    In this conversation with Beth, we talk about Parent Coaching. Contrary to popular belief this is NOT about telling you how to parent, rather it is about having an advocate walk this journey alongside you while highlighting and recognizing that your presence, not perfection, is the greatest thing you can give. Working with the parents and the family is a crucial pillar to helping special needs children grow and thrive. Tune in! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parent Coaching27:21 Navigating Challenges31:13 The Importance of Community34:32 Understanding Parenting Skills37:27 Effective Communication44:06 Jai Certified Parent Coaching50:21 The Power of Being Present

  4. Aug 28

    Coffee Talk!! Summer Fun & Back to School!!

    Introducing... Coffee Talks!! Coffee Talks will be very casual conversations, sharing stories and having a little fun! In our inaugural Coffee Talk Renee and I talk about parenting, summer activities, and back to school!! Takeaways Summer brings a mix of excitement and challenges for families.Back-to-school preparations involve managing change and anxiety for both parents and children.Parenting challenges vary for each child and require individualized approaches.Special needs parenting involves unique considerations and emotional experiences.Family memories are cherished and often tied to specific events and experiences.The entertainment landscape has evolved, offering instant access to content and changing viewing habits. Family activities contribute to shared experiences and create lasting memories. Chapters 00:00 Summer Conversations02:59 Back to School Preparations05:58 Parenting Challenges08:52 Special Needs Parenting13:02 Family Memories26:03 Changing Entertainment Landscape27:37 Summer Adventures28:12 Family Day Trips28:37 Theme Park Fun30:33 Local Attractions35:59 Hockey Games and Sports Events36:23 Preseason Games and Family Experiences41:40 Fall Activities and Seasonal Preparations

  5. Aug 7

    ABA: Evidence Based

    In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Heather Pane as she shares her expertise in applied behavior analysis (ABA). The discussion delves into the understanding of ABA, addressing misconceptions, and highlighting the broad application of ABA beyond autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration, a holistic approach, individualized session planning, and the use of reward systems while maintaining a balance. Takeaways ABA is an evidence and science-based approach that looks at behavior, identifies how behavior works, and aims to increase skills and decrease problem behaviors, among other things.Collaboration, individualization, and data transparency are crucial in the ABA process. Parents are entitled to and should ask for data then collaborate with behavior analysts to understand their child's progress. Collaboration is key to understanding and addressing behavioral trends.Individualized learning and understanding preferred behaviors are essential for effective intervention.Celebrating small wins is crucial for positive reinforcement and motivation.Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background01:28 Understanding ABA03:16 Misconceptions about ABA08:52 The Broad Application of ABA12:15 Holistic Approach15:32 Session Planning and Individualization18:31 Reward Systems and Balance22:21 Data Transparency27:28 The Power of Collaboration28:12 Understanding Behavior and Learning30:38 Balancing Individualism and Preferred Behaviors34:32 Celebrating Small Wins and Achieving Goals40:03 The Future of ABA and Support for Adults

  6. Jul 17

    Routine Builds Resilience!

    Jeffrey Zielinski, in his first solo podcast, discusses the importance of routines and flexibility in parenting, emphasizing the impact on children's development and the challenges faced in maintaining routines. He also highlights the role of flexibility, adaptability, and empowering children through choice, while encouraging and rewarding resilience. Takeaways Routines and flexibility play crucial roles in parenting and child development.Empowering children through choice and encouraging resilience are essential for navigating change and unpredictability. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Shorter Form Podcasts00:58 The Importance of Routines04:17 Research Supporting Routines07:03 Challenges to Routine10:20 Flexibility and Adaptability13:14 Empowering Children Through Choice15:40 Encouraging and Rewarding Resilience

  7. Jun 19

    What Exactly is DIR Therapy?

    This conversation not only unwraps what exactly DIR therapy is, but we also explore its principles, impact, and future. Beth, a co-founder of Bridging Worlds OT & DIR Therapy, shares insights on the journey to DIR therapy, differences and complements to other therapies, and the empowering impact on families. The discussion also highlights the socialization aspect of DIR therapy and its potential future in therapeutic intervention. Takeaways DIR therapy empowers families to connect with their children and have successful sessions at home.DIR therapy has a significant impact on social skills, confidence, and overall well-being.The future of DIR therapy holds promise, with increasing recognition and coverage by insurance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DIR Therapy06:33 Differentiating DIR from Other Therapies16:20 DIR Therapy Evaluation Process27:35 The Socialization Aspect of DIR34:03 The Future of DIR Therapy39:25 Empowering Families with DIR Therapy

  8. May 22

    Transitionary Planning within Special Needs

    In this episode we cover the topic of transition planning for students with special needs, focusing on the various stages of transition, including the importance of early planning, the role of DVRS and Pre-ETS, work-based learning, community-based instruction, and the significance of IEPs in the transition process. The conversation covers the importance of transition services for students with disabilities, the role of parents in the transition process, and the impact of successful transitions on individuals with disabilities. It also emphasizes the value of patience and the need for exposure to different job experiences. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Early Planning08:30 Work-Based Learning and Community-Based Instruction15:22 Counseling and Opportunities in Transition Planning22:55 The Role of Transition Services29:27 The Value of Patience and Exposure39:13 Lessons Learned from the Transition Stage

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5
out of 5
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About

The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group is a special needs and disability podcast for parents, caregivers, families, professionals, and anyone looking for honest conversations, practical resources, and real-life perspectives. We explore special needs parenting, disabilities, IEPs and special education, occupational therapy, speech therapy, ABA, DIR/Floortime, sensory processing, parent coaching, transition planning, advocacy, inclusion, and the everyday realities families experience along the way. But this isn’t just an educational podcast. Some episodes bring in professionals and experts to help make complicated topics easier to understand. Others center lived experience, parent perspectives, personal stories, and the lessons we learn through our own journeys. And sometimes, we simply sit down and talk — openly and casually — about parenting, family, challenges, progress, and life. Our goal isn’t to tell families what to do or pretend we have all the answers. It’s to ask good questions, connect people with useful information and resources, share different perspectives, and create a community where people can learn from one another. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, preparing for an IEP meeting, exploring therapies and services, advocating for your child, supporting someone with a disability, or simply looking for a community that understands — there’s a place for you here. The Branch Network Podcast is produced by The Serviceberry Group, where we’re working to build connections, provide resources, and create a stronger community for individuals with disabilities and the families who love and support them. Conversations. Resources. Real Life Solutions.

Information

  • Creator
    Jeffrey Zielinski
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jeffrey Zielinski