Podcasts

This podcast list is a compilation of recommendations from parents and community members, offered as a resource to explore a variety of perspectives on disability and identity. We recognize that experiences of disability and identity are vast and varied, and no single podcast can perfectly encompass the full spectrum of lived experiences. This includes the wide range of disabilities – from visible to invisible, physical to cognitive, developmental to acquired – and the diverse needs for support, which can vary significantly. Experiences are further shaped by the complexities of intersectionality, including race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and more. The inclusion of a podcast on this list does not constitute an endorsement of all opinions or viewpoints expressed within its episodes. These podcasts represent individual narratives and perspectives, and may not reflect every experience. We encourage families to engage with the material critically and thoughtfully, recognizing that these recommendations are a starting point for further exploration and discussion about the diverse and multifaceted nature of disability and identity.

We want to build a podcast list that reflects the rich diversity of our community, and we need your help! We want to make sure our collection is inclusive and representative of everyone, so we encourage you to add podcasts that celebrate the many facets of disability and identity.

This includes, but isn't limited to:

Disability: Share podcasts that highlight the experiences and perspectives of people with disabilities.
Race and Ethnicity: Contribute podcasts that showcase the diverse cultures and histories of our community.
Sexual Identity and Gender Identity: Add podcasts that explore the spectrum of sexual orientations and gender identities.

By sharing podcasts that represent your own identity or that you've found particularly insightful, you'll help us create a truly inclusive and representative collection for everyone to enjoy. Please share any podcasts that should be included in this list by filling out the form below - we want to hear from you!

Divergent Conversations

Explore new perspectives and engage in thought-provoking discussions with Dr. Megan Neff and Patrick Casale who are neurodivergent therapists in a neurotypical world.

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Last Night @ School Committee

A bite-sized summary of Boston School Committee meetings, and "Deep Dives" on the biggest issues impacting public schools nationwide.

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The Neurodiversity Podcast

The Neurodiversity Podcast talks with leaders in the fields of psychology, education, and beyond, about positively impacting neurodivergent people. Our goal is to reframe differences that were once considered disabilities or disorders, promote awareness of this unique population, and improve the lives of neurodivergent and high-ability people.

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Tilt Parenting Podcast

Tilt Parenting — a podcast about learning disabilities, parenting differently wired / neurodivergent children, and more

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Understood Explains Season 1

There’s a lot to learn about learning and thinking differences like dyslexia and ADHD. Understood Explains is a podcast that unpacks one important topic each season. Season 1 covers the ins and outs of the process school districts use to evaluate kids for special education services. Host Dr. Andrew Kahn is a psychologist who has spent nearly 20 years evaluating kids for schools. He explains each step of the evaluation process and gives tips on how to talk with your child along the way.

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Uniquely Human Podcast

Uniquely Human: The Podcast expands the conversation on autism and neurodiversity by amplifying the voices of autistic individuals and thought leaders in providing insightful, cutting-edge and practical information about the autistic experience.

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In It

Listen to the joys and frustrations of supporting kids who learn and think differently. Hosts Rachel Bozek and Gretchen Vierstra talk with parents, caregivers, teachers, and sometimes kids, offering support and advice for and from people who struggle with reading, math, focus, and other learning differences.

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Parenting Behavior with Dr. Andy Kahn: Your Guide to Getting Through the Hard Stuff

Parenting is one of the toughest things we do in life. It can be even harder when we can’t get our kids to do the things we need them to do. On “Parenting Behavior,” host Dr. Andy Kahn offers bite-size tips for all kinds of parenting challenges. From how to stay calm when your child is acting out to helping with bedtime battles, listen as Dr. Kahn shares both evidence-based and mindful approaches for helping your child.

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The Opportunity Gap

Kids of color who have ADHD and other common learning differences often face a double stigma. But there’s a lot that families can do to address the opportunity gap in our communities. Host Julian Saavedra is a father of two. He's also an assistant principal who has spent nearly 20 years working in public schools. Join Saavedra as he talks with parents and experts and offers tips to help you advocate for your child. Comments? Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.

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Two Sides of the Spectrum

A place where we explore research, amplify autistic voices, and change the way we think about autism in life and in professional practice.

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Understood Explains Season 3

Want to know how special education works and get IEP tips for parents? This season of Understood Explains covers the ins and outs of individualized education programs. Host Juliana Urtubey is the 2021 National Teacher of the Year and has helped many families develop IEPs. So you can learn from a pro in this limited-run series. Episodes drop weekly in English and Spanish, starting March 21

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Podcast Recommendations

Do you have podcast recommendations? Submit them with this form and we will add them to our list!