In this episode, Alicia Renee, founder of the IEP Files and advocate for neurodivergent children, shares her personal journey of raising her son, including her struggles and triumphs in navigating the special education system. She discusses the diagnosis process, her relentless pursuit of appropriate services, and her fight against systemic failures in education. Alicia emphasizes the importance of advocacy, both personally and professionally, and offers guidance to other parents facing similar challenges. Her resilience and commitment to ensuring that no parent walks alone into an IEP meeting shine through in this inspiring conversation.

What we discuss:

00:00 Welcome and Introductions
00:42 Parenting a Teenager
01:27 Journey with Autism Begins
02:55 Early Signs and Diagnosis
03:50 Navigating the IEP Process
06:37 Challenges and Advocacy
13:00 Support Systems and Personal Struggles
18:58 Fighting for Services and Rights
22:52 Balancing Personal Health and Advocacy
30:02 Challenges with the School District
30:59 Growing into Advocacy
32:05 Filing Grievances and Complaints
34:17 Understanding My Son's Challenges
36:28 Fighting for Individualized Support
41:33 Becoming an Advocate for Others
50:38 Advice for Struggling Parents
55:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


If you liked this episode and want to connect with Alicia:

Website: https://www.theiepfiles.com
Email: theiepfiles@gmail.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/the_iep_files
Tik Tok: theiepfiles

Resources provided by Alicia:

Parent Power: My Amazon Book & Tool List for Advocacy, Boundaries & Support
Why Families of Color Need to Know About the Endrew F. Case
The Top 4 Wrightslaw Books Every Special Needs Parent Should Own

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) | U.S. Department of Education
U.S. Department of Education | The Office of Civil Rights
Client Assistance Program (CAP) | Rehabilitation Services Administration
Home | Rehabilitation Services Administration


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TikTok: autismforbadassmoms

Find more information at:
https://www.autismforbadassmoms.com



Ep. 112 - 'Too Normal' To Be Supported with Alicia

Are you a mother of a child with autism, struggling to maintain balance, feeling overwhelmed, and frequently second guessing your decisions? Do you often feel like you're navigating a maze with no map, grappling with feelings of isolation, anxiety and exhaustion? Are you seeking ways to manage your stress, regain your strength, and find joy and fulfillment. 

"Autism for Badass Moms" is the podcast you've been waiting for. This show is your guide to becoming that badass, mentally and emotionally strong mother you know you can be.

I am your host, Rashidah Cartwright, a fellow autism mom, personal development coach, and experienced mental health and substance use professional with over 18 years of dedicated service in the field. I am also a proud mother of four beautiful children, two of whom have been diagnosed with autism. One of my children also has a diagnosis of ADHD. 

Each week is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. We shed light on the often unseen emotional journey through heartfelt conversations with autism moms, we uncover the raw and authentic experiences that shape your life.

In each episode, we discuss everything from finding balance in the chaos, mind shifts, regulating your nervous system, and setting healthy boundaries. You'll not only find a supportive community that understands your struggles, but you'll  also equip yourself with the tools to become a more confident, resilient, and empowered autism mom.

Step into your power. Unleash your inner badass. Start listening now and transform your struggles into strengths. Welcome to "Autism for Badass Moms" - the space for autism moms who want to become unapologetically badass.
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*The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you have seen or heard from RASHIDAH CARTWRIGHT, PODCAST GUESTS OR THIS PODCAST.

New tracks tagged ##autism #theabmpodcast #autismforbadassmoms #autismacceptance #iep #neurodivergent #specialeducation