Episodes

In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we dive deep into one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—factors in a child’s special education journey: the relationship between parents and the special education teacher. A strong, respectful partnership can transform the entire IEP process, leading to better communication, stronger interventions, and a more united team supporting the child. But when this relationship breaks down, the impact is felt immediately—and the child pays the price. ...

In this influential episode of All Abilities, No Filter, Brandon Clark interviews Bailey Payne, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Bailey shares her unique backstory that led to her lifelong career transition into treating children with autism. During her transformative career undertaking, Bailey identified reasons why interventions weren't as effective as they could be. The solutions she came up with are surprisingly simple. This led Bailey to developing TEAM: Training Educators and Managing B...

In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with Jeaneen Tang, a speech-language pathologist, author, and proud mom of a neurodivergent son, for an open and inspiring conversation about communication, connection, and confidence. With more than 24 years of experience supporting children and adults with neurodiversity, Jeaneen dives deep into what speech therapy really is — and how it helps students find their voice, build relationships, and thrive. She also shares how her personal jo...

In this heartfelt episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with John Fela, a former educator with experience in both general and special education, to explore the journey of fatherhood through the lens of raising a child with disabilities. John opens up about the emotional and practical challenges that come with balancing advocacy, parenting, and personal growth. He shares honest reflections on the hurdles he’s faced, but also the beautiful opportunities he’s discovered in building a dee...

In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with Dr. Emily Levy — founder and director of EBL Coaching — to talk all about multi-sensory learning and how it can transform the way students absorb and retain information. Dr. Levy shares her expertise on using hands-on, research-based strategies that reach learners through sight, sound, touch, and movement. We dive into the real-world benefits of multi-sensory instruction, from helping students strengthen their reading and writing skil...

In this powerful episode of All Abilities, No Filter, host Jake Edgar sits down with Robert DeLena, a devoted father who shares his heartfelt journey raising his son, Ryan. From early childhood, Ryan displayed significant behavioral and emotional challenges that led to difficult decisions within the school system—including multiple residential placements that, in hindsight, Robert realized were not always in Ryan’s best interest. Robert opens up about the turning point that transformed everythin...

In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, Hannah sits down with Board Certified Music Therapist Samantha Foote to learn the impact of Music Therapy in regards to treatment outcomes. We explore the power of music as more than just entertainment—it’s a form of therapy that can unlock communication, increase functionality, and support emotional well-being. Samantha shares how rhythm, melody, and creativity can help individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—reach a variety of treatment ...

IEPs don’t have to be confusing. In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, Jake sits down to break down the Individualized Education Program step by step—explaining what each part means, why it matters, and how parents and educators can use it to make sure every child gets the right support. Whether you’re walking into your very first IEP meeting or looking for strategies to advocate more effectively, Jake gives you the clarity and confidence you need to navigate the process. Clear, practical...

In this episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with Janetta Bryant, CEO of Abilities Workshop and author of the new book Autism Advocacy Interrupted. Together, we take a deep dive into the world of advocacy—exploring not only the positive impact that effective advocacy can bring, but also the challenges and pitfalls that can arise when it goes wrong. Janetta introduces listeners to the different archetypes of advocates, offering insight into how each one influences families, schools, a...

In this powerful episode, we explore one of the most critical topics in behavioral health: why proper training is essential when working with individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Whether you're a caregiver, therapist, direct care staff member, or healthcare leader, this conversation will challenge you to think deeper about how training impacts safety, outcomes, and relationships. We're joined by Rebekah Wright, Chief Operating Officer at Springbrook Autism Behavioral Hea...

In this eye-opening episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we sit down with Christie Phillip, Licensed Master of Social Work (LMSW) and Certified Sex Offender Treatment Provider, to have an honest and essential conversation about sexualized behaviors in individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Christie brings years of experience working with both victims and offenders of sexual behaviors, offering expert insight on how to recognize, understand, and respond to sexualized behavi...

In this powerful and eye-opening episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we dive deep into the emotional toll that often comes with working in the field of autism and disability support. Whether you're a teacher, therapist, parent, caregiver, or advocate, this conversation will hit close to home. Compassion fatigue and burnout are real—and they're often invisible. We explore: What compassion fatigue really looks like in the classroom and at home The signs you may be emotionally drained without even...

In this powerful second half of our conversation with Jaime Hrobar, we continue diving deep into her incredible journey of autism advocacy, parenting with perseverance, and transforming personal struggles into strength. Jaime opens up about navigating life as a parent of two children on the autism spectrum, sharing her unfiltered perspective on the challenges and victories that come with fighting for her kids’ rights, education, and future. From overcoming addiction to becoming a tireless advoca...

In this powerful episode of All Abilities, No Filter, Brandon and the other hosts sit down with Jaime Hrobar — a mother, writer, and fierce advocate who shares her deeply personal and transformative journey of raising two autistic children while facing and overcoming her own struggles with addiction. Jaime opens up about what it’s like to be a parent navigating some of the most complex challenges in the world of autism — from early intervention to adulthood, from severe behaviors to IEP meetings...

In this uplifting episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we’re talking about the power of celebrating small victories and embracing progress over perfection. Whether you're a parent, teacher, therapist, or advocate, recognizing the everyday wins—no matter how small—can make a lasting difference in how we support individuals with autism and other disabilities. Our hosts dive into personal stories, practical tips, and mindset shifts that help reframe what success looks like. You’ll learn how celebr...

n this eye-opening episode of All Abilities, No Filter, we dive deep into the world of autism stereotypes—challenging the outdated, narrow portrayals still seen in media and everyday conversations. From the "Rain Man" myth to assumptions about communication, intelligence, and behavior, our hosts unpack the most common misconceptions with honesty, empathy, and a bit of humor. We share personal stories, professional insights, and practical ways to recognize and reject stereotypes while embracing ...

In this powerful and essential episode of All Abilities, No Filter, the hosts dive into one of the most intense and emotionally charged aspects of supporting individuals with autism and other disabilities: handling a crisis. Join Jake (educator), Lilly (therapist), Brandon (BCBA), and Hannah (recreational therapist turned administrator) as they walk listeners through real strategies for managing crisis situations with care, compassion, and control. Drawing from their diverse professional backgro...

Welcome to the very first episode of All Abilities, No Filter! In this special kickoff, we introduce you to the voices behind the mic — Jake, an educator and program director; Lilly, a compassionate therapist; Brandon, a knowledgeable BCBA; and Hannah, a recreational therapist turned administrator. We’re coming together from different professional backgrounds with one shared mission: to create a space where real conversations happen about autism, disability, and everything in between — without ...

Get a quick taste of what’s to come on All Abilities, No Filter. In this solo preview, one of the hosts of the show, Jake shares the heart behind the podcast, what listeners can expect in the first few episodes, and why this space is all about real conversations, different perspectives, and judgment-free support for those living with or working alongside individuals with autism and other disabilities.