In this conversation, Casie Fariello, co-founder of Other Parents Like Me and parent coach with the Partnership to End Addiction, speaks honestly about what it's like to parent a child through mental health and substance use challenges — and why so many parents are doing it alone when they don't have to be. Drawing from her own parenting journey and over two decades of experience navigating high-pressure environments, Casie offers a grounded, compassionate perspective on what it actually takes to stay steady when everything feels uncertain. The discussion explores how community changes the experience of struggling parents, why self-care isn't a luxury in these situations but a necessity, and what it looks like to rebuild confidence and connection when the path forward isn't clear.

In this conversation, Attorney Sauda S. Johnson-McNeal, an education law attorney with over twenty years of experience advocating for children and families, pulls back the curtain on what parents need to know — but rarely do — when navigating special education law. With a background that spans the classroom, the courtroom, and the lecture hall, she brings both legal precision and genuine accessibility to a process that can feel overwhelming and opaque. The discussion explores how to approach IEP meetings with confidence, what rights parents actually have under the law, and why understanding the system is one of the most powerful things a family can do for their child.

In this conversation, Ashley, a school psychologist with experience across six districts and a current private practice focused on children with complex educational needs, brings a rare inside-outside perspective on how schools and families can work together more effectively. Having worked at every level — from classroom consultation to district-wide systems — she understands both where the gaps are and what it actually takes to close them. The discussion explores what meaningful educational support looks like for kids who don't fit neatly into traditional systems, how parents can advocate more effectively within schools, and what schools get right — and wrong — when building support structures for students who need more

In this conversation, Kody Harms, Board Certified Behavior Analyst and neuro-affirming therapist with over 15 years of experience, challenges some of the most common assumptions about what support for neurodiverse kids and teens should actually look like. Rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Kody's approach starts with a simple but powerful question: who does this person want to be? The discussion explores how to help neurodiverse young people build a life that aligns with their own values and goals, why the people around them — parents, teachers, loved ones — are just as important to support, and what it means to put the individual genuinely in control of their own growth.

In this conversation, Sarah Collins, occupational therapist and founder of HomeschoolOT, explores what it looks like to build a learning environment that actually fits the child in front of you. Drawing from her work with homeschooling families and her own experience as a homeschooling parent, Sarah unpacks how sensory needs, motor development, and learning style should shape the way kids are taught — not the other way around. The discussion covers practical strategies for parents who want to move beyond a one-size-fits-all curriculum, how occupational therapy principles translate directly into the home learning environment, and why understanding your child's unique profile is the starting point for everything else.

In this conversation, Dr. Jade Starleaf, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in autism, OCD, ADHD, and anxiety, offers a refreshingly human perspective on what it means to truly understand a neurodivergent child. As both a clinician and a mother of a neurodivergent child, she brings a rare dual lens to the conversation — one that holds space for the worry and uncertainty parents feel while never losing sight of the extraordinary strengths their children carry. The discussion explores what the diagnostic process actually looks like, why a strength-based approach changes the trajectory for kids and families, and how greater understanding within the home can unlock connection, confidence, and growth.

In this conversation, Dr. Viannae Carmona Nelkin, a licensed pediatric neuropsychologist trained across some of the country's most respected children's medical centers, brings rare clinical depth to the question of how we identify and understand neurodivergence in kids. As the founder of The Children's Neuropsychology Center, Dr. Nelkin specializes in early childhood development and complex developmental presentations — including the female phenotype of neurodivergence, which is too often missed or misdiagnosed. The discussion explores what comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations actually reveal, why early identification changes outcomes, and what parents and educators need to understand about the way neurodivergent children — especially girls — think, learn, and experience the world.

In this conversation, Tricia Xavier, an independent school admissions leader with over a decade of experience across Los Angeles, pulls back the curtain on how families can navigate educational decisions with more clarity and less anxiety. Drawing from her work at Westmark School and the International Dyslexia Association, Tricia brings a deeply informed perspective on supporting students with language-based learning differences — including dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and ADHD — and why finding the right fit earlier makes all the difference. The discussion explores what the admissions process looks like from the inside, how parents can better advocate for their child's needs, and why the most important question isn't which school is the best, but which school is the best for this kid.

In this conversation, Flora McCormick, licensed counselor and founder of Sustainable Parenting, shares her framework for raising kids who are confident, cooperative, and genuinely connected to the adults in their lives. With nearly two decades of experience coaching parents and educators, Flora unpacks what it actually looks like to be both kind and firm at the same time — and why most families are swinging too far in one direction without realizing it. The discussion explores brain-based tools for navigating everyday power struggles, building cooperation without coercion, and how parents and teachers can work together to raise resilient kids in an increasingly complicated world.

In this episode, Cory and educator Carl Hooker dive into the fast-moving world of AI and what it really means for the future of learning. Far from sounding the alarm, they explore how AI can enhance creativity, personalize education, and help students think more critically—not less. Carl shares practical ways teachers can bring AI into the classroom without losing what matters most: human connection. They talk about scaffolding, rethinking assessments, and why failure is essential for growth. From college applications to classroom equity, this conversation challenges old assumptions and reimagines what teaching—and learning—can look like in the age of AI.

In this episode, Cory sits down with Vida Mercer to break down what modern homeschooling really looks like—and it’s far from one-size-fits-all. They unpack common myths, explore the challenges and freedoms of unschooling, and dive into how educational trauma shapes families' choices. Vida, a second-generation homeschooler and education consultant, shares why the parent-child relationship is at the heart of a thriving homeschool experience. From trusting the learning process to preparing for college and life beyond the classroom, this conversation is a fresh, empowering look at how families are redefining education on their own terms.

In this episode, Cory and Elizabeth Hamblet dive into what students with learning differences really need to succeed in college—and it’s not just accommodations. They unpack the shift from high school support systems to college expectations, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy, emotional resilience, and true independence. Elizabeth challenges the idea that more support is always better, urging families to focus on skill-building, not just paperwork.

In this episode, Cory and college admissions expert Jess Chermak unpack the high-stress world of high school course selection and the myths surrounding AP overload. They explore why students don’t need to take every advanced class to impress colleges—and how chasing perfection can backfire. From the politics of AP credits to the value of authenticity in applications, Jess shares how students can craft a meaningful academic path that reflects who they are, not just what looks good on paper. It's a conversation about letting go of pressure and leaning into purpose.

In this episode, Dr. Ellen Bratton discusses the growing issue of low motivation in children, exploring its causes and implications. She emphasizes the importance of balancing aptitude and pleasure in children's activities, the impact of societal pressures, and the role of parents in fostering motivation. The conversation covers various aspects, including sports, academics, screen time, and the need for open communication between parents and children. Dr. Bratton provides practical strategies for parents to support their children's motivation and well-being.

In this conversation, education consultant Jennifer Taylor discusses the complexities of deciding on out-of-home therapeutic placements for children facing mental health challenges. Drawing from her personal and professional experiences, she addresses the stigma surrounding these decisions, the evolution of treatment programs, and the importance of family involvement in the therapeutic process. Jennifer emphasizes the need for parents to recognize when they have exhausted their options and the significance of innovative support systems that can aid in the transition back home. The discussion also highlights the importance of curiosity in parenting, encouraging parents to approach difficult conversations with understanding rather than judgment.

In this conversation, Cory and Jana Parker explore the complexities of educational testing for children, focusing on the differences between various types of evaluations, the role of schools and pediatricians in the assessment process, and the importance of understanding diagnoses. They discuss how parents can navigate the system to get the best support for their children, the implications of labels, and the need for comprehensive evaluations to ensure appropriate interventions. In this conversation, Jana Parker discusses the complexities of evaluating anxiety in children, the fluidity of diagnoses, and the impact of these diagnoses on identity. She emphasizes the importance of ongoing support and the need for tailored educational recommendations. The discussion also touches on outdated beliefs in education, particularly regarding dyslexia, and the significance of clear communication between parents and schools.

In this conversation, travel expert Susie Chow discusses the transformative power of long-term travel for families, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning and cultural exposure. She shares her personal journey from a conventional career to founding her travel business, highlighting how travel can foster personal growth and empathy in children. The discussion covers practical aspects of planning extended travel, including educational options, overcoming common obstacles, and the growing trend of families considering international relocation. Susie encourages families to take small steps towards travel, suggesting that even a month-long trip can provide valuable insights and experiences.

In this episode, Cory and education consultant Chrissy Naspo explore the multifaceted world of boarding schools, debunking myths and discussing who can benefit from these institutions. They delve into the opportunities boarding schools provide, the importance of finding the right fit for students, and the vital partnership between parents and schools. Chrissy shares insights on how boarding schools can cater to diverse student needs and the role of community in fostering personal growth. In this conversation, Krissy Naspo discusses boarding schools, including community acceptance, access to education, financial aid, diversity, and the unique experiences of both students and faculty. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of boarding schools, dispelling myths about exclusivity and highlighting the growth and maturity students gain from their experiences. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of boarding schools post-COVID and the challenges faced in recruiting diverse faculty.

In this conversation, Dr. Ashley Smith shares her personal journey with anxiety and how it has shaped her professional expertise. The discussion explores the intersection of mental health, technology, and education, emphasizing the importance of resilience, control, and the role of parents and schools in supporting children's mental health. Dr. Smith highlights the impact of technology on attention spans and anxiety, the potential of mental health apps and AI, and the need for a shift in parenting and educational practices to foster resilience and emotional intelligence in children.