In this powerful episode of Her Unshakeable Confidence, Simone and Olivia sit down with Karen Mayer Cunningham — special education advocate, trainer, speaker, and founder of the Epic IEP Academy. Karen shares her mission to equip parents, educators, and advocates with the knowledge and confidence they need to navigate the special education system and fight for every child’s rights.Drawing from her own journey as the mother of a child with disabilities, Karen talks about how the lack of information, training, and accountability in schools inspired her to take action and teach others to do the same. She opens up about building the Epic IEP Academy, training teams nationwide, and writing her upcoming book The Epic IEP: A Powerful Playbook for Parents, Educators, and Advocates.Simone and Olivia dive into real-world challenges — from walking into intimidating IEP meetings to advocating for accommodations in college and beyond. Karen explains why preparation is key, how federal law empowers parents, and why collaboration (not conflict) should be the focus at the table.Through humor, honesty, and bold insight, Karen reminds listeners that confidence isn’t about perfection — it’s about conviction, persistence, and refusing to walk away when children need you most. This episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, aspiring advocates, and anyone passionate about creating change in special education.✅ Actionable TakeawaysBe Prepared Before the Meeting: Request the full draft of the IEP in advance so you can make informed decisions and avoid being rushed or sidelined.Weekly Learning Matters: Ongoing training — not one-time meetings — is essential for parents, educators, and advocates to stay effective and confident.Stay at the Table When It’s Uncomfortable: Advocacy isn’t about being liked — it’s about getting results for the child, even if that means pushing back or slowing down the process.Explain Accommodations to the Child: Kids need to understand the purpose of their support to feel empowered instead of embarrassed.Use Federal Law as a Tool, Not a Threat: IDEA and Section 504 establish parents as key decision-makers — confidence comes from knowing your rights.Collaboration Over Compliance: An IEP should be about serving the child, not just checking boxes or rushing through paperwork.⏱️ Chapters00:00 — Introduction01:25 — Karen’s background and advocating for her daughter07:10 — The Epic IEP Academy and weekly training model13:42 — Serving parents, educators, and advocates nationwide18:55 — Social media, reach, and educating the masses20:48 — The upcoming book The Epic IEP24:35 — Accommodations in college and federal protections27:06 — Assistive technology and changing expectations30:22 — Addressing embarrassment around accommodations32:17 — Preparing parents before IEP meetings36:45 — Why schools often lack training39:38 — Confidence, coaching, and hope in special education44:09 — Advice from the women in her life46:28 — Humor, resilience, and staying unshakable46:59 — Where to find Karen✨ About Karen Mayer CunninghamKaren Mayer Cunningham, widely known as the Special Education Boss®, is a nationally recognized trainer, speaker, and advocate who equips parents and professionals to navigate and negotiate successful student outcomes at the IEP and 504 table. As founder of Special Education Academy™ and author of The EPIC IEP™, she brings clarity, humor, and practical strategies to one of the most complex systems families face. Karen’s mission is simple: empower every voice at the table so children receive the education and support they deserve.🔗 Connect with Karen Mayer CunninghamWebsite: specialeducationacademy.com Book Info: theepiciep.comInstagram: @specialeducationboss LinkedIn: Karen Mayer Cunningham Facebook: Karen Mayer Cunningham Services: Records review, representation, professional development, advocate training👉 💬 Connect with UsDon’t forget to subscribe to Her Unshakeable Confidence for more empowering stories and actionable insights. Leave us a review, share your favorite moments, and tag us on social media!✨ Take our new QUIZ and discover your signature mix of courage, energy, and flavor.🎁Subscribe to our exclusive email list and receive our downloadable, FREE GUIDE, Positive affirmations to Live Life AuthenticallyClick HERE to get your copy!Pre-Order Simone’s New Book REAL Confidence A Simple Guide to Go from Unsure to Unshakeable📖 Order Simone’s BookAmazon Link: https://a.co/d/5MwUmJhGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55422846-the-extraordinary-unordinary-youBarnes&Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-extraordinary-unordinary-you-simone-knego/1137661020👉 Connect with Simone Knego:Instagram: @simoneknegoFacebook: @speakersimoneknegoLinkedIn: simoneknegoWebsite: www.simoneknego.comBook a free call with Simone👉 Connect with Olivia Knego:Instagram: @oliviaknegoLinkedIn...
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55 min