From the classroom to the conference table—today’s episode is one of full-circle purpose.

Karen Mayer Cunningham, the Special Education Boss®, is joined by the amazing Rachel Mottern, a former special education teacher turned full-time national advocate, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation you won’t forget.

Rachel shares her journey from struggling with dyslexia as a child to becoming a teacher, earning her master's at Vanderbilt (yes, the #1 program in the nation), and eventually realizing she could serve students better outside the system.

What started with a two-day training inside the Special Education Academy turned into a career pivot that changed everything. You'll hear:

• What it was like being a student with dyslexia and a “quiet struggler”
• Why she took the 2-Day Intensive and Mastermind—and how it gave her permission to act.
• Behind-the-scenes stories of systemic pushback, evaluation roadblocks, and how Rachel refused to be hushed.
• How she built her advocacy practice with courage, community, and Karen’s mentorship.

This episode is for every educator, advocate, and parent who knows something isn’t right—and is ready to do something about it.

Rachel now serves families nationwide and is living proof that when you combine training, lived experience, and boldness, you can make real change.

Connect with Rachel Mottern:
Website: www.MotternIEPHelp.com
Email: [email protected]
Partner Page: Inside Special Education Academy

Want the same training that helped Rachel launch a new career?
Join us inside The Academy

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✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨

👩‍⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.

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🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.

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