PODCAST · education
Empowering Exceptional Minds
by Educational Therapy LLC
Welcome to Empowering Exceptional Minds —the podcast where we dive into real conversations about neurodiversity. We interview parents, individuals, and professionals to explore the challenges, strengths, and unique experiences of diverse learners and thinkers.We discuss ADHD, Executive Functions, dysgraphia, autism, dyscalculia, dyslexia, written expression, auditory processing, visual processing, learning disabilities, evaluations, assessments, parenting and professional development.
Episodes
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Organize Your Thoughts, Communicate Your Message
Ever know what you want to say but struggle to organize your thoughts, find the right words, or get started? In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, Maayan sits down with Suzy Carbrey, speech-language pathologist, ADHD coach, and author of You’re Not Doing It Wrong, to explore the…
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Why Can’t I Just Do It? Executive Functioning in Adults
Do you know what you need to do—but somehow just can't get yourself to do it? In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, Maayan Glaser-Koren talks with educational therapist and executive function coach Eric Kaufman about the everyday challenges adults face with executive functioning. They...
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Beyond the After-School Collapse: Somatic Tools with Lisa Danahy
Did you know that many "behavioral issues" in children aren't behavioral at all—they’re sensory? Following up on our last conversation with Aaron about sensory integration, we’re taking a deeper dive into the specifics of how our nervous systems process the world around us. In this episode, host...
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Why Does My Child Fall Apart After School? The Sensory Connection With Aaron
Why might a student press incredibly hard on their pencil, bump into things, avoid sports, or completely fall apart after holding it together all day at school? In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, Maayan sits down with occupational therapist Aaron DeNardo, founder of Laughing Giraffe...
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The Moon Cactus Effect: Autism, Adulthood, and Finding Your Bloom Later in Life
What happens when a life-altering diagnosis arrives at 48 — not in childhood, but in the middle of adulthood, after decades of unexplained struggle? In this episode, we sit down with Robert Caldwell, journalist, science fiction author, and self-advocate on Alabama's Interagency Autism…
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Off the Lines - Understanding Dysgraphia with Kelli Fetter
Words get stuck. Letters flip. The hand can't keep pace with the mind. For millions of people, dysgraphia turns something as simple as writing into a daily battle — one that's often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, or dismissed as laziness or carelessness. In this episode, we sit down with Kelli...
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Does your child’s IEP actually provide what they need? With Kara Orlando
IEPs can feel overwhelming—especially when you're hearing terms like IDEA, FAPE, LRE, push-in, pull-out, and service minutes. In Part 3 of our IEP & 504 series, I’m joined by Kara Orlando, founder of Kind Mind Executive Function Coaching and former school psychologist. We break down what these...
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Parental burnout is real—and it deserves more attention with Roopa Belur
In the newest episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we’re talking about parental burnout—especially the kind that can happen when you’re constantly advocating, coordinating, worrying, problem-solving, and supporting a neurodivergent child. I’m joined by Roopa Belur, clinical director…
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Is Gaming Really the Problem? What Your Child’s Screen Time Might Be Telling You with Mark Talaga
Is gaming really the problem—or is it telling us something important about what a child needs? In this episode, we move beyond the “screens are good vs. bad” debate and look at gaming through a developmental and regulation-focused lens. Games can provide connection, creativity, mastery, immediate...
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Backpacks & Butterflies: The Back-to-School Transition with Jasleen Kaur Monga
The night-before-school-starts anxiety is real — and if you're raising a neurodivergent kid, so is the pressure to get it "right." In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we sit down with a mom and educational therapist Jasleen Kaur Monga to break down how to ease the back-to-school...
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Flying with Neurodivergent Kids & Teens: Air Travel, Safety, and Nervous System Regulation
Traveling by airplane can be exciting, but for many neurodivergent children and teens, it can also feel overwhelming. New environments, crowds, changes in routine, loud noises, unfamiliar smells, and sensory input can place significant demands on the nervous system. In today's episode of…
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Parents as Warriors: Loving Our Children Through The Storms with Dave Herz
What happens when our children push every button we have—and still need us to show up with love, connection, and compassion? In this powerful episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, host Maayan Glaser-Koren sits down with Dave Herz, Co-Founder of Wonder: A Confident Living Company, to discuss...
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ARFID: Understanding More Than "Picky Eating" | Featuring Lisa McGlothlin, MS, RD
In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, I’m joined by Lisa McGlothlin, MS, RD, to explore Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)—an eating disorder that goes far beyond typical picky eating. Lisa brings years of experience helping children, teens, and families navigate ARFID...
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Reading Between the Lines — Dyslexia, Regulation, and Real Talk
Dyslexia isn't just a reading challenge — it touches every part of a child's emotional world. In this episode, we sit down with Sara Cuen, founder of Journey 2 Learning, a special education professional and mom of two children with dyslexia, to explore where her professional expertise and…
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Fatherhood & Showing Up: A Conversation with Anthony Gracia
Father's Day may have been a couple of weeks ago, but celebrating the role of fathers shouldn't be limited to just one day. As summer gives families more time together, it's the perfect opportunity to reflect on what it means to be present for our children. In this episode of Empowering…
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Is It ADHD, Autism, or Perimenopause? The Overlooked Connection Every Woman Should Know
What happens when the symptoms of perimenopause collide with neurodivergence? Many women find themselves struggling with brain fog, overwhelm, forgetfulness, emotional sensitivity, anxiety, sensory challenges, and executive function difficulties—often wondering, "What's happening to me?" In this...
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Beyond Willpower: ADHD, Food Cravings, and the Hidden Search for Dopamine with Kamy Mousavi
What if overeating wasn't about laziness or a lack of self-control? In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, host, Maayan Glaser-Koren, sits down with Kamy Mousavi, founder of Step Together. Kamy shares his powerful journey from immigrating to Canada to struggling with bullying, body…
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Write Anyway: How to Finish Your Book/Essay When Your Brain Has Other Plans
What does it take to turn a big idea into a finished book — especially when your brain won't cooperate? This week we're joined by Rochelle Melander Row-SHELL MUH-lander, an ADHD-trained certified professional coach and bestselling author of Level Up: Quests to Master Mindset, Overcome...
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Medication Without Fear: A Real Conversation About OCD and ADHD with Dr. Sir Norman Melancon
For many families, the idea of medication can feel overwhelming, confusing, and even frightening. In this candid and compassionate conversation, Maayan Glaser-Koren sits down with psychiatrist Dr. Sir Norman Melancon to explore the realities of treating OCD and ADHD. Together, they unpack common...
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Beyond the Mask: Understanding Autistic Burnout, Survival, and True Self-Advocacy with Kory Andreas
What does it actually cost to fit in? In this episode, we sit down with Kory Andreas, LCSW-C — a clinical social worker, autism and neurodivergent specialist, late-diagnosedautistic adult, and founder of Unmasking Retreats — who brings over 20 years of experience in education and clinical…
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Navigating Adult ADHD in the Workplace with Dr. John Severino, PsyD
Can you be highly successful, deeply creative, and still struggle with the day-to-day demands of executive dysfunction? Absolutely. In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we are joined by the multi-talented Dr. John Severino, PsyD—CFO, compliance consultant, professional percussionist,...
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Flip the Script: Strengths-Based Learning with Sam Young
What does school look like when it's built around a child's brilliance instead of their gaps? Sam Young, M.Ed. — Founder of Young Scholars Academy, two-time Fulbright Scholar, TEDx speaker, and neurodivergent educator — joins us to talk about what it really takes to educate gifted,...
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Must-Ask Questions For IEP and 504 with Melinda Davis-Gillinger
What really happens behind the scenes when a school suggests moving your child from an IEP to a 504 plan?In this candid and empowering episode, Maayan Glaser-Koren hosts Melinda David-Gillinger, an educational advocate. Melinda pulls back the curtain on educational advocacy—sharing her personal...
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Social Wounds We Carry Into Adulthood- With Caroline Maguire
If you grew up with ADHD, dyslexia, or any kind of neurodivergence — chances are you also grew up feeling like you were always one step behind socially. Like everyone else had been handed a rulebook you never received. This episode is about what that does to us. And what we can actually do about...
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"Something's Off" — When to Stop Waiting and Get Your Child Evaluated with Dr. Korb
What does a developmental pediatrician actually do — and how is it different from your child's regular doctor? In this episode, Maayan speaks with Dr. Korb, developmental pediatrician and author of Raising an Organized Child, about early red flags parents often miss, what organization truly means...
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The Middle School Storm: Brains, Big Feelings, and Emergency Chocolate
Your teen isn't lazy. Their brain is just doing something you can't see — and that's exactly the problem. Carrie Bonnett joins us to break down executive function: the invisible mental machinery behind starting, planning, and following through. When it's not working, homework doesn't get touched,...
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The Hidden Language of School Records—and How to Respond When You Hear ‘No’
If you've ever sat in an IEP meeting and walked out feeling overwhelmed — this episode is for you.So many parents describe the same experience: a room full of professionals using language you don't fully understand, decisions that feel like they've already been made, and a quiet voice inside...
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Beyond Whole Body Listening with Elizabeth Sautter SLP
Is Whole Body Listening outdated? What's replacing it — and why does it matter for your child? In this episode, we welcome Elizabeth Sautter, a licensed speech-language pathologist with nearly 30 years of experience, award-winning author of Make Social and Emotional Learning Stick!, and a mom of...
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Wired to Achieve, Built to Burn Out: A Neurodivergent Reality Check
You've built the career. You're raising the family. You're crushing it by every measure — so why does it feel like you're running on fumes? In this episode, Wainwright Yu— technology executive, Stanford-trained leadership coach, and mindfulness teacher — gets real about the hidden energy tax...
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A Different Way of Coping: Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance With Dr. Klein
In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we explore Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)—a profile often misunderstood as defiance, avoidance, or oppositional behavior. I’m joined by Dr. Alex Klein to unpack what’s really going on beneath the surface. We talk about how PDA is rooted in the...
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20/20 Vision but Struggling in School? The Missing Visual Link with Dr. Carole Hong
Do you know a bright, capable student who still struggles with reading, attention, or learning—even after passing a school vision screening or getting glasses from the eye doctor? Many families are told their child’s vision is “20/20,” yet something still isn’t clicking in the classroom. In this...
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What If Your Child's 'Too Much' Is Actually Their Superpower? With Emily Kircher Morris
In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we sit down with Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC — licensed counselor, author, speaker, and host of The Neurodiversity Podcast — for a conversation that every parent and educator of a twice-exceptional child needs to hear. As a 2e adult with giftedness…
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Listen to Your Body: Sensory, Nervous System & Neurodiversity
In this episode, we sit down with Lori Crowley, a California-based counselor specializing in somatic and sensory-informed approaches to mental health. Lori brings a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience as a neurodivergent parent, making this conversation both deeply...
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The Dissertation Dilemma: Executive Function Secrets No One Teaches in Grad School
Graduate school and post-grad life can be both intellectually stimulating and deeply overwhelming. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Becca Güler, EdD, to explore the executive function demands of advanced education — from coursework to thesis and dissertation completion. We unpack...
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Not Just Gadgets: Real Learning with Assistive Tech & AI
There are so many tools out there—and for many parents, educators, and neurodivergent adults, figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming. New apps, new devices, new AI tools… it’s a lot. In today’s episode, we slow it down and make assistive technology feel practical, accessible, and kinda...
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From “Ugh, Writing” to “Oh, I Get It” with Dr. Michal Reznizki
In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michal (Me-hal) Reznizki, professor at UC Berkeley and scholar of writing, rhetoric, and composition. With over 12 years of experience teaching composition, Michal brings powerful insights into how students learn to write—and how educators can better engage...
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Ditch Buckets: Parent-School Wins for Gifted & 2e Kid
What does effective collaboration between parents and schools really look like—and how can families advocate without compromising their child’s self-determination? In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, host Maayan Glaser-Koren is joined by Allison Krug, MPH, PCC—epidemiologist…
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Mind by Design: Rethinking Assessments with Jana Parker
In this episode, we’re joined by Jana Parker, Licensed Educational Psychologist and founder of Mind by Design, a multidisciplinary private practice in Campbell, California serving children, teens, and young adults. With a background in public education and years in private practice, Jana brings a...
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How to Talk to Kids About a Diagnosis with Dr. Liz Angoff
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Liz Angoff, a Licensed Educational Psychologist and my go-to expert when parents ask, “How do I explain my child’s diagnosis in a way that feels empowering?” With over 20 years of experience supporting students, families, and educators across public...
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Beyond the Challenges: Helping Neurodiverse Kids Thrive With Diana Kennedy
In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, we welcome Diana Kennedy, a board-certified educational therapist and founder of MindSpark Learning, for a powerful conversation about supporting neurodiverse children in ways that truly work. Diana holds master’s degrees in Literature and…
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Strong Body, Sharp Mind a Conversation with John Heringer
In this episode, we’re excited to welcome John Heringer, founder of Method3 Fitness and a sought-after speaker on health, entrepreneurship, and leadership. With over 20 years in the fitness industry, John has built thriving fitness communities and dedicated his career to helping people believe in...
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Sleigh Bells & Deep Breaths: Holiday Transitions Through a Regulation Lens
The holiday season can be filled with meaningful moments—and also a lot of transitions. Changes in routine, travel, social expectations, and sensory input can be especially demanding for neurodivergent kids and teens, and for the adults supporting them. In this episode, we’re joined by Maayan, an...
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A Twice-Exceptional Family’s Path with Yekaterina Tsipenyuk O'Neil
Join us on this heartfelt episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, where we dive into the inspiring journey of a 2E Coach, Yekaterina Tsipenyuk O'Neil, a passionate immigrant parent navigating the twists and turns of raising a twice-exceptional child in the US. From the eye-opening moment she...
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Dyslexia Through the Years: From Research to Real Life with Dr. Kelli Sandman-Hurley
In this episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Kelli Sandman-Hurley, a nationally recognized expert in dyslexia whose work has shaped how educators, clinicians, and families understand learning across the lifespan. Dr. Sandman-Hurley brings together something rare and powerful: deep research...
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The Heart Behind the Work: A Tribute to Sue Strand
In this deeply personal and emotional episode, Maayan honors the life and legacy of her mentor, guide, and honorary mother, Sue Strand — an extraordinary educational therapist who transformed the lives of countless children and families. Sue is the reason Maayan entered the field, the person who...
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Creativity as Medicine: How Hobbies Heal the Mind a conversation with Dr. Kathryn Satyukov
In this episode, I’m joined by a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Dr. Kathryn Satyukov, DNP, PMHNP, from Rising Sun Mental Health, a telehealth practice specializing in compassionate, evidence-based care for teens and young adults. Together, we explore how therapists and prescribers can…
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From Chaos to Connection with Allison Livingston a Parenting Coach
You know those meltdown moments—getting out the door, homework battles, screen-time transitions, showers, or family visits—when your child resists, melts down, and you get triggered too. It’s especially tough with neurodivergent kids or clashing family temperaments. Allison Livingston gets it. As…
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When It Takes a Village, WizTherapy Builds One
In this episode, we’re honored to welcome Dotan Galron, co-founder (with Rani Glaser) and CEO of WizTherapy — a platform reimagining how families and professionals connect, collaborate, and thrive while supporting learning differences such as ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, and executive-function...
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Allow Me to Interrupt: The ADHD Episode You Didn’t Know You Needed
Buckle up for a mind-bending chat with Dr. Gilly Kahn, the psychologist who’s flipping the script on women’s ADHD. In this electric episode, we dive into her game-changing book Allow Me to Interrupt: A Psychologist Reveals the Emotional Truth Behind Women’s ADHD. Think ADHD is just “can’t sit...
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The Sensory–Gut Connection with Neta Shani
In this episode of Empowering Exceptional Minds, I’m joined by Neta Shani, founder of Mistake and Friends, to explore the fascinating connection between sensory integration, gut health, and how they impact emotional regulation and attention. Together, we discuss how sensory processing challenges...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Empowering Exceptional Minds —the podcast where we dive into real conversations about neurodiversity. We interview parents, individuals, and professionals to explore the challenges, strengths, and unique experiences of diverse learners and thinkers.We discuss ADHD, Executive Functions, dysgraphia, autism, dyscalculia, dyslexia, written expression, auditory processing, visual processing, learning disabilities, evaluations, assessments, parenting and professional development.
HOSTED BY
Educational Therapy LLC
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Empowering Exceptional Minds have?
Empowering Exceptional Minds currently has 56 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Empowering Exceptional Minds about?
Welcome to Empowering Exceptional Minds —the podcast where we dive into real conversations about neurodiversity. We interview parents, individuals, and professionals to explore the challenges, strengths, and unique experiences of diverse learners and thinkers.We discuss ADHD, Executive Functions,...
How often does Empowering Exceptional Minds release new episodes?
Empowering Exceptional Minds has 56 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Empowering Exceptional Minds?
You can listen to Empowering Exceptional Minds on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Empowering Exceptional Minds?
Empowering Exceptional Minds is created and hosted by Educational Therapy LLC.
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