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

🌱 Join the Free CommunityYou’re not alone. Our Self Directed Life community is a space to heal, learn, and lead with curiosity and courage.👉 ⁠nas.io/SDL⁠

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✨ Let’s keep raising and rising — together.