The Wayne RESA Roundtable

Wayne RESA
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The Wayne RESA Roundtable Podcast brings together voices from all areas of special education, special education/mental health community, and advocacy to provide valuable resources, insights, and support for families and staff both within Wayne County and beyond.

  1. FEB 1

    S2.E4: Inclusion in Action: Randy Lewis’ Approach to Meaningful Employment

    In this episode, Randy Lewis (Author of “No Greatness Without Goodness:  How a Father’s Love Changed a Company and Sparked a Movement”) shares his groundbreaking model for employing adults with disabilities, highlighting how inclusive workplaces benefit both employees and businesses. Listeners will learn about strategies for creating meaningful employment opportunities, overcoming common barriers, and fostering a culture that values abilities over limitations. Randy also discusses how families, educators, and communities can support adults with disabilities in achieving independence and professional success.

    50 min

  2. FEB 1

    S2.E3 - Michigan Alliance for Families: Guidance for the Journey

    In this episode, we sit down with Michelle Driscoll, the policy coordinator from Michigan Alliance for Families (MAF) to explore the essential supports available to families of children with special education needs. Michelle breaks down how MAF helps parents understand their rights, navigate the special education system, and access meaningful resources during every stage of their child’s educational journey. Listeners will learn about MAF’s parent mentors, statewide trainings, and individualized support, as well as practical tips for partnering with schools and advocating effectively. This episode offers families a welcoming, informative guide to getting the help they need and building strong foundations for their child’s success.

    29 min

  3. JAN 5

    S2.E2 - Hope in Action: Strengthening Suicide Prevention Together

    n this episode, we feature the Hope Empowerment Coalition (formally the Suicide Prevention Coalition).  We speak with Brian Galdes—former Superintendent and now leading the Coalition through Growth works—about his personal connection to the issue of suicide and his commitment to prevention. Brian shares how the Coalition’s mission and vision guide districts in collaborating and providing consistent, evidence-based supports for students. Tune in to hear how hope, coordinated action, and community partnerships can make a real difference in suicide prevention. Special guest: Brian Galdes (Suicide Prevention Coordinator)

    23 min

  4. JAN 5

    S2.E1 - 3 Teachers, 1 Mission: Helping Your Child Thrive

    Join us for an insightful conversation with four experienced special education teachers as they share practical strategies for supporting your child at home and working collaboratively with their school team. From navigating IEP meetings to creating routines that foster learning and independence, our experts provide actionable tips that parents can implement right away. Whether you’re looking to strengthen communication with teachers or better understand how to support your child’s unique needs, this episode is packed with guidance, encouragement, and real-world advice. Guests: Mimi Higgins (resource room secondary-Livonia), Regan Cowger (resource room elementary-Northville), and Jason Hesch (SCI teacher-Dearborn)

    39 min

  5. 12/16/2025

    S1.E9 - Hope, Healing, and Awareness: A Family's Voice with Eric Hipple and Tarah Hipple-Thomas

    Former NFL quarterback Eric Hipple and his daughter, Tarah Hipple Thomas (Owner and Trauma Therapist at Soar Trauma Therapy), join us for an honest father–daughter conversation about mental health and suicide awareness. Together, they share their personal journey, the lessons they’ve learned, and how families and communities can break the silence, foster resilience, and bring hope to those who are struggling.

    38 min

  6. 12/02/2025

    S1.E8 - The Dyslexia Dialogue

    Decoding Dyslexia features Sarah Jones Wayne County RESA Literacy Consultant, who sits on the Dyslexia workgroup for MDE. She breaks down the science of dyslexia, shares practical strategies for home and school.

    29 min

  7. 12/02/2025

    S1.E7 - The “what” and “why” of Essential Elements

    The “what” and “why” of Essential Elements podcast takes the mystery out of the Essential Elements used in special education. Kate Pearson (RESA Consultant) and Lisa Cleveland (Livonia Public Schools special education teacher) dive into what each element means, why it matters, and how it helps learners with significant cognitive disabilities grow. Join us as we unpack concepts, talk with experts, and share strategies that empower educators and families to support student success.

    15 min

  8. 11/12/2025

    S1.E6 - Working Well Together!

    “Working Well Together” brings a special education parent and a special education director to the same table for open, honest conversations about collaboration and partnership. Each episode explores real-world experiences, practical tips, and shared perspectives on how families and schools can work hand-in-hand to support students with disabilities and help them thrive—at school and beyond.

    24 min
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The Wayne RESA Roundtable Podcast brings together voices from all areas of special education, special education/mental health community, and advocacy to provide valuable resources, insights, and support for families and staff both within Wayne County and beyond.

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