Find all the Let’s Talk Learning Disabilities Episodes Here, or Search by Topic!
Episode # 81-Turning Learning Disability Struggles into Triumphs part 2
Laurie and Abbey continue their series "Turning Struggles and Triumphs: Parenting through Learning Challenges." Abbey chats with Katherine Zimmermann, who shares her son’s journey with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and ADHD, and the challenges their family faced along the way.
Episode # 80 - Turning Learning Disability Struggles into Triumphs-Part 1
Laurie and Abbey introduce their new series "Turning Struggles and Triumphs: Parenting through Learning Challenges." Over the next 12 episodes, they’ll share stories from parents navigating the challenges of raising a child with learning disabilities.
To kick off the series, Maria and Jaime discuss their daughter’s struggles with reading, writing, and math since kindergarten.
Episode # 79 - Diagnostician Directors Roundtable Discussion
In this special episode, Laurie and Abbey take you behind the scenes at their annual director's retreat in Austin, TX. The hosts are joined by four directors from different locations of Diagnostic Learning Services for a roundtable discussion on testing, learning, and their experiences as diagnosticians.
Episode # 78 - Assistive Technology for Children with Learning Disabilities
Laurie and Abbey chat with Cathi Graveline about various assistive technologies for students with learning disabilities. They cover resources for students in elementary school through college and into adulthood.
Episode # 77 - Visual Processing & Functional Vision - Part 2
In this Episode, Laurie and Abbey conclude their interview Dr. Justin Chelette, an optometrist from Texas Vision Therapy, delving into the topic of visual processing and functional vision.
Episode # 76-Visual Processing & Functional Vision–Justin Chelette-Part #1
In this Episode, Laurie and Abbey interview Dr. Justin Chelette, an optometrist from Texas Vision Therapy, to delve into the topic of visual processing and functional vision.
Episode # 75-ADHD Coach Evan Weinberger-Staying Ahead of the Game
Abbey introduces her guest, Evan Weinberger, who is the president and CEO of "Staying Ahead of the Game." Evan discusses his personal experience with ADHD and how it led him to become involved in the field of academic coaching and support.
Episode # 74 - Testing for Specific Learning Disability in Written Expression
Laurie and Abbey chat with Jennifer King of Dysgraphia Life about understanding the testing process for children with dysgraphia. Jennifer shares her story, the challenges of identifying dysgraphia, and valuable resources for those seeking more information on this learning difference.
Episode # 73 - More On 504 Accommodations
Laurie and Abbey welcome back Suzette, a 504 coordinator, to discuss 504 accommodations for learning disabilities like dyslexia, ADHD, dysgraphia, and anxiety. They highlight the importance of tailoring accommodations to each student's unique needs for the best support.
Episode # 72 - ADHD Testing
Laurie chats with Trina Haynes of My Lady ADHD about the growing demand for ADHD evaluations, especially for students and adults. Laurie, who has ADHD herself, explains the importance of thorough evaluations and shares insights into the testing process at Diagnostic Learning Services.
Episode # 71 - Notes from A 504 Coordinator
Laurie and Abbey meet with Suzette, a 504 Coordinator, to dive into the ins and outs of Section 504. Suzette explains the history, purpose, and how a 504 plan can best serve individuals with learning disabilities.
Episode # 70 - Types of Educational Evaluations
Laurie and Abbey break down the differences in evaluations, who can order or conduct them, and what the approval process looks like, including the typical timeline for getting things done.
Episode # 69 - ADHD Medication Shortage
Laurie and Abbey discuss the current ADHD stimulant medication shortage. They talk through why this is happening, how you may be able to find the medication you need if you haven't been able to, and other resources or helpful natural remedies.
Episode # 68 - Back to School
Laurie and Abbey discuss key tips for getting ready for the new school year, including reviewing accommodation plans and communicating with teachers. They also talk about how students can start advocating for their own needs as they grow older and head into college.
Episode # 67 - Dysgraphia Life with Jennifer King
Laurie and Abbey interview Jennifer King from Dysgraphia Life. Jennifer shares her story and how Dysgraphia Life was created, offering valuable insights and resources for anyone seeking more information about dysgraphia.
Episode # 66 - Normal Isn’t Real with Krys Kornmeier
Laurie and Abbey interview Krys Kornmeier, an independent filmmaker behind Normal Isn't Real. Krys shares the inspiration for the film, how she got started, and highlights some of the powerful stories featured in the film.
Episode # 65 - Talk about Landmark College for Dyslexia Students
Laurie and Abbey interview three staff members from Landmark College, an institution founded to support students with dyslexia and other learning disabilities. Mark, Adam, and Mike discuss the college’s processes, how they serve neurodivergent learners, and the unique educational experience they provide.
Episode # 64 - Interactive Metronome with Sue Zapf
Abbey continues the “intervention series” by interviewing Sue Zapf, an Interactive Metronome provider and founder of Children’s Therapy Center, Inc. Sue shares the benefits of IM therapy, her personal experience with it, and how the therapy can be customized to meet individual needs.
Episode # 63 - Learning Disability Mentors with Jake Sussman
Laurie and Abbey continue their ‘intervention series’ with Jake Sussman, founder of Superpower Mentors. Jake shares the inspiration behind his company and reflects on his personal struggles with learning challenges growing up as a neurodivergent kid.
Episode # 62 - Behavioral De-Escalation with Patrick Mulick
Laurie and Abbey continue their ‘intervention series’ with Patrick Mulick, a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst.
Patrick shares his insights on how to prevent challenging behaviors before they escalate and discusses proactive strategies to foster an environment where students feel supported, confident, and ready to succeed.