Exceptional Minds with RoboKind

What if communication started long before spoken words?

In this heartfelt conversation, Maggie shares the story of her son, Chet, a boy with a deep love for letters, words, and language. Before consistently speaking out loud, Chet was already connecting through writing words on the fridge, arranging letters, and expressing himself in ways that were entirely his own.

Maggie opens up about her journey as a parent, the small moments that became big victories, and the joy of watching communication unfold in unexpected and beautiful ways. The conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and full of reminders that there is no single “right” path for growth.

This episode celebrates connection, individuality, and the many different ways students find their voice.

In this special episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we’re revisiting a powerful Autism Acceptance Month conversation with Dr. Lisa Kershaw.

Dr. Kershaw shares the deeply personal story that shaped her life and career: her journey as a mother to her son, Clarence, whose autism diagnosis came years after early signs first appeared. What began as a family’s search for answers became a calling. From learning in isolation, to helping teachers better understand communication, to stepping into special education and statewide autism leadership, Dr. Kershaw’s story is one of persistence, compassion, and purpose.

This episode is a reminder that acceptance goes far beyond awareness. It means seeing the person first, recognizing that communication can look different, and building the kind of support systems that help students and families thrive. Watche the episode here: https://www.robokind.com/webinars/autism-acceptance

In this spirited episode of Exceptional Minds, we chat with Dr. Stacy Carlock, Director of the Ladue Early Childhood Center and self-proclaimed “Principal on skates.” With purposeful roller skating down school hallways, Stacy has turned her leadership into an everyday reminder that joy is powerful and that early learning thrives when you meet learners (and adults) on their level. A longtime advocate for the power of play, collaboration, and trust, she invites us to see how leadership, culture and fun can go hand in hand. This is a celebration of joy as an educational superpower.

In this episode of Exceptional Minds, we sit down with Erica Jackson, a special education leader in Columbus County, North Carolina, whose passion for students with disabilities has shaped real change in her district. From expanding access to new learning tools to championing strong support systems for teachers, Erica shares what drives her, what she's learned, and what still keeps her inspired every day.

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we welcome Joe Kwisz, outgoing President of the Indiana Council of Administrators of Special Education (ICASE) and current President-Elect of National CASE. With over sixteen years in special education administration—rising from classroom teacher and high school coach to Executive Director—Joe brings a wealth of hands-on experience. We’ll explore his ICASE leadership, his vision as he steps into the national role, and what’s driving his mission to support students and leaders at every level. Tune in for an insightful discussion on advocacy, policy, and empowering special education to go even further.

What happens when a CEO, a curriculum visionary, and a classroom-turned-district leader walk into a strategy session? You get the ultimate crossover episode on making IEPs actually work.

In this live-recorded session, Brian Baggs, Dr. Jessica Redcay-Shoff, and Stephen Burslem team up to drop real talk and real strategies for simplifying Special Education and Early Learning. From reducing prep time to sparking student engagement, this convo is full of ‘aha’ moments and practical takeaways.

🎧 Listen now—or if you’re more of a visual learner, catch the replay here: https://phonics.robokind.com/june-2025-webinar-replay

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we are honored to host Brandie Neal, M.Ed, Founder and CEO of Crayons To Credits Educational Consulting, LLC. With over 16 years in education, Brandie has dedicated her career to supporting neurodivergent students and their families. Drawing from her personal experiences as a neurodivergent individual, she has developed a deep commitment to creating inclusive educational environments that recognize and nurture the unique strengths of each learner.

We'll delve into Brandie's journey from classroom teacher to educational consultant and child advocate, discuss the comprehensive services offered by Crayons To Credits—including tutoring, homeschool education programs, child advocacy, educational consulting, professional development, and mental health counseling—and explore the organization's upcoming expansion to full-day services. Join us as we uncover strategies for empowering neurodivergent learners and fostering inclusive educational practices.

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we are joined by Laurie Peterson, M.Ed, MA, LPC, Founder and Executive Director of Diagnostic Learning Services and eDiagnostic Learning, as well as co-host of the internationally recognized podcast Let's Talk Learning Disabilities. With years of experience assessing and supporting students from elementary age through adulthood, Laurie has become a sought-after expert on learning disabilities such as Dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. She is passionate about equipping educators, parents, and students with the knowledge they need to navigate learning challenges successfully. Laurie also serves on the Executive Board for the North Texas chapter of Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD).

We’ll explore Laurie’s journey, her insights from hosting Let’s Talk Learning Disabilities, and how we can strengthen the connection between educators, parents, and students to ensure every learner gets the support they need.

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we are honored to host Dr. Charla DeLeo, the Special Education Coordinator for St. Clair County Schools in Alabama. With over 13 years of experience in special education, Dr. DeLeo is a passionate advocate for students' rights and has served as the former President of the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE). Known for her candid approach and unwavering commitment to doing what's best for students, Dr. DeLeo shares her journey, insights into effective advocacy, and strategies for fostering inclusive educational environments.

In this episode of Exceptional Minds with RoboKind, we are honored to speak with Michele Sayles Harris, Chief of Student Services for Marietta City Schools in Georgia. With over 23 years of experience in special education—including roles as a classroom teacher, supervisor, and executive director—Michele has dedicated her career to enhancing educational outcomes for students with disabilities. As the current President of the Georgia Council of Administrators of Special Education (G-CASE), she leads initiatives to support special education administrators across the state. Join us as we explore Michele's journey, her insights on inclusive education, and the strategies she employs to empower exceptional learners. You don't want to miss this!

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