Don't IEP Alone.

Don't miss: https://adayinourshoes.com/book/

Welcome back to “Don’t IEP Alone” with Lisa Lightner, your go-to podcast for all things IEPs and special education advocacy. In today’s episode, Lisa dives into a whirlwind week packed with high-profile statements, policy updates, and a Supreme Court case that could have far-reaching implications for families of children with disabilities.

Lisa breaks down the controversial comments made by RFK Jr. about autistic individuals, reacts to Dr. Oz’s take on public health, and explains what a new executive order on school discipline could mean for your child. She also sheds light on an important Supreme Court case involving IEP disputes, examining what’s really at stake for families seeking justice and effective support.

Tune in as Lisa untangles this busy week in advocacy, offers practical advice on taking action, and shares some personal updates—including exciting news about her book. As always, it’s the candid, straight-shooting conversation you can count on to help you navigate the often-complex world of special education.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

Welcome back to Don’t IEP Alone, your go-to podcast for real talk about IEPs, advocacy, and navigating the world of special education. I’m your host, Lisa Lightner, and in today’s episode, I’m catching you up on some big updates—like the release of my very first book coming out this October (and yes, you can already pre-order it!). I dig into what it’s really like working as an advocate, juggling income streams, and balancing all the “have-tos” that come with parenting and supporting kids with disabilities.

This week, I’m sharing my thoughts on the heaviness of the world lately, from the challenges our kids face today to the problematic rhetoric coming from public figures like RFK Jr. We’ll talk about wealth, privilege, and why some people with power seem so intent on making life tougher for marginalized communities—especially families like ours. Plus, I’ll get personal about my Powerball daydreams, the realities of having a child with profound autism, and why community support matters so much more than ever.

If you’re ready for lived experience, unfiltered opinions, and concrete action items for making change, you’re in the right place.

More: https://adayinourshoes.com/stepping-up-for-disabled-kids/

And: https://adayinourshoes.com/book/

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

An unfortunate trend I see every spring as a Special Education Advocate--the school frequently calling parents to come pick up their child. Usually due to behaviors. So what can you do? Listen and find out.

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

This happens so often this time of year and it makes me nuts. You cannot discriminate against any protected class, yet kids with IEPs are excluded from field trips all the time.

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

Too many parents don't know what a PWN is, yet it is one of the most important parts of the IEP process.

I call it the "little known game changer" in the IEP process.

Listen to find out what it is and how to use it. 

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

All of your rights as an IEP parent are listed in Procedural Safeguards. Here are a few of the important highlights.

IEP Procedural Safeguards

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

Parents ask me all the time, "Can I ask for this?" or "What about this?" 

So what can you ask for on an IEP? What are the limits? 

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

When you're crying during an IEP meeting, chances are you're not feeling strong and empowered.

I'm sharing some great tips on how to not cry at your IEP meeting.

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

Content mentioned in episode: IEP vs 504: What’s the Same? And Which is Better to Have?

In this episode, Lisa addresses significant changes within the US Department of Education and the impact these could have on IDEA and Section 504, including legal battles and personnel changes at the Office of Civil Rights. She explores the pros and cons of IEPs versus 504 plans, highlighting the importance of these legally binding documents in ensuring children with disabilities receive the education they deserve. 

Lisa also discusses the importance of community and resistance movements in protecting rights under attack, providing listeners with insight and strategies to navigate these uncertain times. Join Lisa as she shares her perspectives and encourages listeners to stay informed and engaged in advocating for disability rights.

Don't IEP Alone with Lisa Lightner, Special Education Advocate

Thank you for listening to this episode of Don't IEP Alone. See you next time!

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training

Would you like to have your IEP questions answered by a Special Education Advocate?

You can email them to me at Lisa @ ADayInOurShoes.com

Plus, an update on my son.

Support the show

Other ways I can help you with IEPs: 

• 📚 Order Your IEP Playbook (my book)
• Schedule a Consult or IEP Record Review
• Get on the Waitlist for Training