Voices of Empowered Parents Podcast

Parents often wonder if they know enough to contribute during an IEP meeting. The truth is that no report or evaluation can replace the knowledge you have about your own child. In this episode, Dr. Julie Lane reminds parents that their greatest strength is the perspective they bring to the table and why their voice is essential to every educational decision.

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Dr. Cynthia Zierhut Ursu, licensed clinical psychologist and Founder and Clinical Director of Early Days Autism Center. With more than twenty years of experience in autism, early intervention, research, and inclusive education, Cynthia brings a unique perspective on what it means to create environments where children with autism and other developmental differences can genuinely belong. Together, they discuss early intervention, the role of families, what parents should look for in inclusive early childhood programs, and how educators can develop the knowledge and confidence needed to support every child. This conversation invites families and professionals to think beyond simply placing children together and toward creating communities where every child is known, supported, and included.

⁠Early Days Autism Center (Website)⁠

⁠Early Days Autism Center (Facebook)⁠

⁠Every Child Included (Website)⁠

⁠Every Child Included (Facebook)⁠

⁠Every Child Oaks (Website)⁠

⁠Every Child Oaks (Facebook)⁠

Confident advocates are not born. They grow through experience, preparation, and a commitment to learning. In this episode, Dr. Julie Lane shares five habits that help parents become stronger partners in their child's education while building positive relationships with educators and remaining focused on what matters most.

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Sara Wylie, School Services Manager at Vista Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, certified Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments, and Orientation and Mobility Specialist. Together, they discuss how families can confidently navigate special education services for children with visual impairments, the unique educational supports available in school settings, and the importance of building collaborative partnerships that help children develop independence, confidence, and lifelong success. This conversation offers practical guidance and encouragement for parents who want to better understand their child's educational journey.

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Hearing the word "no" during an IEP meeting can feel discouraging, but it does not have to end the conversation. In this episode, Dr. Julie Lane discusses how parents can respond with confidence by asking thoughtful questions, seeking understanding, and keeping the focus on finding solutions that support their child. Advocacy begins with curiosity, not conflict.

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Tiffany Wilkson, a mother, advocate, and Outreach, Marketing, and Operations Specialist with Family Promise of Great Falls. Tiffany shares her deeply personal journey through homelessness, domestic violence, serious illness, separation from her children, and the difficult decision to relinquish her parental rights so her children could have stability and care. Years later, Tiffany has transformed some of the most painful experiences of her life into advocacy for other families. Through The Tristan Project, named in honor of her autistic son, she provides sensory supports to neurodivergent children experiencing homelessness and shelter transitions. This conversation is about parenthood, dignity, resilience, and the many ways a parent's love for their children can continue to shape the lives of others.

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Good advocacy is built on good documentation. In this episode, Dr. Julie Lane explains why creating an organized record of your child's educational journey can reduce stress, improve communication, and help parents make informed decisions over time. Learn practical strategies for documenting your child's progress without feeling overwhelmed by paperwork.

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Aabett Johnson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, veteran, military spouse, homeschooling mother, and passionate advocate for early learning and communication. Together, they discuss how early intervention can shape a child's future, the importance of honoring every child's unique way of communicating, and how collaboration between families and professionals creates meaningful progress. Whether your child communicates verbally, uses AAC, or is just beginning their developmental journey, this conversation offers encouragement, practical insight, and hope for the road ahead.

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Every parent wants to make the best decisions for their child, but that begins with understanding the recommendations being made. In this episode, Dr. Julie Lane shares one simple question that can transform the conversation during an IEP meeting, strengthen collaboration, and help parents become more confident advocates. Sometimes the most powerful tool we have is our willingness to ask thoughtful questions.

In this episode of Voices of Empowered Parents, Julie M. Lane welcomes Corrinne Mercer, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, founder of Amaryllis Behavioral Health, and mother of a child with dysphagia and motor and speech delays. Drawing from both her professional expertise and personal experiences, Corrinne shares why parents should trust their instincts, advocate with confidence, and know that support does not end in childhood. Together, they discuss navigating difficult medical experiences, the importance of early intervention, the availability of ABA services for teens and adults, and the hope that exists for families throughout every stage of their journey.

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