In this Raising and Rising episode, I speak with Monica Cochran — a courageous, deeply experienced educator whose 40-year journey has taken her across public schools, special education programs, Montessori classrooms, corporate training, and micro school consulting.
Monica shares how her fluke entry into education became a lifelong mission to champion emotionally safe, child-centered learning — especially for neurodivergent children and the families who raise them. Together, we explore the vital role of co-regulation, attunement, and noticing our children's strengths, and why it’s never about perfection — but always about connection.
This episode is a warm, grounded reminder that the way we teach, guide, and parent must start with relationship, not curriculum. And that when we meet both our children and ourselves with compassion, growth flows naturally.
The surprising start to Monica’s 40-year education journey
How co-regulation and felt safety unlock learning
Why connection matters more than curriculum — especially for neurodivergent learners
What gets in the way of “teachable moments” — and how to make space for them
How to build capacity in parents so they can better support their kids
Rethinking education for a fast-changing world
00:00:00 – Introduction to Raising and Rising Podcast
00:00:55 – Meet Monica: A Journey in Education
00:01:22 – Early Challenges and Breakthroughs
00:04:04 – The Evolution of Education
00:05:56 – Building Connection and Felt Safety
00:10:16 – Supporting Neurodivergent Kids and Families
00:12:23 – The Importance of Strengths and Passions
00:19:50 – Future of Education and Self-Directed Learning
00:22:47 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Monica is the founder of Learning Without Borders, where she works with families, educators, and micro schools to support neurodivergent learners and reimagine education systems that honor the whole child.🌍 https://learningwithoutborders.com/
Monica primarily works through referrals and long-standing collaborations — but if her message resonates with you, don’t hesitate to reach out.
💡 Coaching & Resources
If you’re navigating parenting challenges or rethinking how your child learns best, I’d love to support you. I offer practical coaching infused with healing, neuroscience, and self-directed learning.👉 Start here
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✨ Let’s keep raising and rising — together.
May 11 202524 min