Shows
Beautifully Complex317: Creating Neurodiverstiy-Affirming Schools, with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, LPCWhat if schools didn’t just accommodate neurodivergent kids, but celebrated them? In this heartfelt and eye-opening conversation with Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris, we dig into what it really means to create neurodiversity-affirming schools. From ditching moral judgments on behavior to prioritizing belonging over compliance, this episode is a must-listen for any parent or educator who wants more for our kids than just surviving school.You’ll hear powerful personal stories, practical strategies, and a reminder that our children deserve to be seen, supported, and valued exactly as they are.Tune in and discover how we c...2025-06-1941 min
Learn Smarter Podcast360: Emily Kircher Morris & Amanda Morin – Neurodiversity Affirming Schools (Author Series)Rachel Kapp, M.Ed., BCET, and Stephanie Pitts, M.Ed., BCET, welcome Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin on the podcast to discuss their new book, Neurodiversity Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices so All Students Feel Accepted & Supported. During this wide-ranging conversation, they discuss collaboration, neurodiversity affirming schools, and neurodiversity vs neurodivergent. They also discuss how small changes can make a big impact globally, behavior is communication and contextual, how you cannot punish skills into action, and that there is no such thing as normal. They also discuss the notion that challenges can be viewed as possibilities.
Con...2025-05-1340 min
Learn Smarter Podcast360: Emily Kircher Morris & Amanda Morin – Neurodiversity Affirming Schools (Author Series)Rachel Kapp, M.Ed., BCET, and Stephanie Pitts, M.Ed., BCET, welcome Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin on the podcast to discuss their new book, Neurodiversity Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices so All Students Feel Accepted & Supported. During this wide-ranging conversation, they discuss collaboration, neurodiversity affirming schools, and neurodiversity vs neurodivergent. They also discuss how small changes can make a big impact globally, behavior is communication and contextual, how you cannot punish skills into action, and that there is no such thing as normal. They also discuss the notion that challenges can be viewed as possibilities.
Connect with Emily and Amanda:
The...2025-05-1340 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsThe Connection Between Neurodivergence and Mental HealthIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore the intersection of mental health and neurodivergence. They reflect on how unmet needs and unsupportive environments can lead to anxiety, depression, and school avoidance—and how affirming approaches can foster resilience and well-being. They’re joined by Dr. Andrew Kahn, licensed psychologist and Associate Director of Expertise and Strategic Design at Understood.org. Drawing from both his professional experience and personal neurodivergent identity, Dr. Kahn shares insight into how school systems can better support students’ mental health through systemic changes, not just individual interventions. 2025-05-0829 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsNeurodiversity-Affirming IEPs and 504sIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin dive into how educators can shift IEPs, 504 Plans, and personalized learning plans from compliance-focused documents to strength-based frameworks. They discuss the importance of incorporating student voices and considering their unique strengths and needs. Emily and Amanda are joined by Karen Brown, Director of Gifted Education at Paradise Valley Unified School District. With over 35 years of experience, Karen shares innovative, practical approaches for creating inclusive, affirming learning environments, especially for twice-exceptional (2e) students. Key topics include: How educators can shift from deficit-focused...2025-05-0334 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsNeurology Justifies Strengths-Based SupportsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore what it really means to implement strengths-based instruction. They share personal stories and professional insights to unpack common misconceptions and help educators move beyond surface-level approaches to recognizing student strengths. Emily and Amanda are joined by Kareem Neal, an award-winning educator and inclusion advocate who brings over 25 years of experience as a self-contained special education teacher. Kareem shares how focusing on student strengths—not just interests or academic labels—can transform school communities and expand how we define success. Key topics include:...2025-04-1831 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsSetting the Stage for Neurodiversity-Affirming CommunicationIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore what it means to communicate in ways that support and empower neurodivergent students. They reflect on their own experiences and highlight how language, tone, and intention shape our relationships with learners. Emily is joined by Meg Wolf, a twice-exceptional educator and founder of Neurodiverse Connections. Meg brings both professional insight and lived experience to the conversation, sharing how we can shift from correction and compliance to curiosity and collaboration. Key topics include: How educators can shift from “Why haven’t you…...2025-04-1032 min
The Authority Podcast — Expert Insights and Fresh Ideas for Education LeadersNeurodiversity-Affirming Schools with Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda MorinThis week I welcome Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris to the show. Amanda is a neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, an award-winning author, early childhood specialist, certified teacher, and nationally known speaker, deeply committed to fostering accessible and inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals.Emily has dedicated her career to transforming how we understand and support neurodivergent minds. As a licensed professional counselor, educator, and thought leader, she brings a unique blend of clinical expertise and lived experience to her work with neurodivergent individuals.Their book is N...2025-04-0957 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsSupporting Sensory Needs in SchoolsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris explore how sensory experiences impact student learning. They discuss how classroom environments can either support or hinder students’ ability to focus, regulate emotions, and access learning—and what educators can do to create spaces that work for all learners. Amanda and Emily are joined by Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. Keri specializes in supporting children and families through sensory integration strategies and is the author of Wired Differently: A Teacher's Guide to Understanding Sensory Processing Issues. Key topi...2025-03-3029 min
Neurodiversity PodcastSupporting Sensory Needs in SchoolsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris explore how sensory experiences impact student learning. They discuss how classroom environments can either support or hinder students’ ability to focus, regulate emotions, and access learning—and what educators can do to create spaces that work for all learners. Amanda and Emily are joined by Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience. Keri specializes in supporting children and families through sensory integration strategies and is the author of Wired Differently: A Teacher's Guide to Understanding Sensory Processing Issues. Key topi...2025-03-2829 min
Neurodiversity PodcastThe Double Empathy Problem in the ClassroomOn episode 264, we’re sharing our sister podcast’s conversation about the double empathy problem. In Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore a concept that challenges the assumption that neurodivergent individuals lack empathy, and instead highlights how misunderstandings happen between different neurotypes. They share personal stories, real-world classroom scenarios, and strategies to help educators bridge the communication gap with their neurodivergent students. TAKEAWAYS The double empathy problem—what it is and why it matters in schools. How educators can shift from assuming misbehavior to seeking understanding. The difference betwee...2025-03-2633 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsBuilding Emotionally Competent ClassroomsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore what it means to build emotionally competent classrooms. They discuss how educators can develop their own emotional competence to foster healthier learning environments and support neurodivergent students more effectively. Emily and Amanda are joined by Juliana Urtubey, 2021 National Teacher of the Year, who shares her insights on how emotional competence impacts both educators and students. Juliana, a nationally board-certified teacher and advocate for inclusive education, highlights the importance of self-reflection, relationship-building, and culturally affirming practices in the classroom. Key topics include: 2025-03-2027 min
Think InclusiveCreating Neurodiversity Affirming Schools with Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda MorinAbout the Guest(s):Amanda Morin: A renowned neurodivergent neurodiversity activist, Amanda Morin is an award-winning author, specialist in early childhood and behavioral studies, a certified teacher, and a nationally acclaimed speaker. She has dedicated her career to creating accessible, inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, working with educational professionals and parents to enhance understanding of mental health, neurodiversity, and disability.Emily Kircher Morris: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and host of the Neurodiversity Podcast, Emily specializes in supporting neurodivergent, twice-exceptional, and gifted individuals. Based in St. Louis, Missouri, she began her career in education...2025-03-201h 00
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsRethinking Behavior in the ClassroomIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris explore classroom behavior management through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. They reflect on traditional behavior systems, their impact on neurodivergent students, and how educators can shift toward more supportive practices. They are joined by Elizabeth Sautter, a speech-language pathologist, author, and trainer specializing in social communication, emotional regulation, and executive functioning. Elizabeth shares her journey of evolving her practices, including revising her well-known "Whole Body Listening Larry" materials to be more inclusive and affirming for neurodivergent learners. Key Topics: The unintended harm of...2025-03-1327 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsCamouflaging, Masking, and Authenticity for Neurodivergent StudentsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris explore the complexities of masking, camouflaging, and authenticity in neurodivergent students. They discuss why students engage in these behaviors, the cognitive and emotional costs, and how educators can create environments that support choice and self-expression. Amanda and Emily are the authors of Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported and bring deep expertise in supporting neurodivergent learners in education. Key Topics: The difference between masking (suppressing traits) and mimicking (adopting behaviors) under the umbrella of camouflaging 2025-02-2725 min
Neurodiversity PodcastThe Barrier-Breaking Evolution of Whole Body RegulationToday we're discussing the concept of whole body listening, and its evolution to whole body regulation. Elizabeth Sautter joins Emily Kircher-Morris to talk about that evolution, and what it means to neurodivergent people and those who support them. They discuss emotional regulation and co-regulation, the role of educators and parents in modeling emotional awareness, and the impact of shame on neurodivergent learners. Also, the complexities of vulnerability, and the significant difference between calling someone out, and calling them in. TAKEAWAYS The shift from whole body listening to whole body regulation is crucial. Co-regulation...2025-02-2635 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsSupporting Neurodivergent Learners with Universal Design for LearningIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin explore Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and how it can transform classrooms into inclusive, supportive environments for all students. They discuss practical ways educators can shift their teaching approaches to better serve neurodivergent learners without creating extra work—while benefiting every student in the room. Emily and Amanda are joined by Allison Posey, Senior Content Editor and Learning Designer at CAST, an organization at the forefront of UDL implementation. Allison shares her expertise on integrating UDL into classrooms to reduce barriers and foster student success....2025-02-2026 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsUnderstanding and Confronting AbleismIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin take on a challenging yet vital topic: dismantling ableism in education. They explore how ableism is often unintentionally built into school systems and classroom practices and discuss the importance of reflecting on our biases to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments for neurodivergent students. Emily and Amanda are joined by Tim Villegas, Director of Communications for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education and founder of Think Inclusive. Tim shares his insights from years of experience in special education and his personal journey toward recognizing...2025-02-1434 min
Neurodiversity PodcastWhat it Takes to Connect With Today's StudentsEffective teaching involves more than just what happens formally in the classroom, and on this episode, Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes educator and author Adam Meyersieck to talk about it. They discuss the need for engaging teaching methods that connect with students emotionally and socially. They discuss collaboration between parents and educators to support neurodivergent learners, and the significance of strengths-based approaches in teaching. They cover sustainability of the teaching profession, the use of multiple communication modalities, and managing visual clutter to enhance learning environments. TAKEAWAYS Teaching should focus on the process, not just the end result.2025-02-1339 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsThe Double Empathy Problem… and the SolutionIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily and Amanda explore the double empathy problem—a concept that challenges the assumption that neurodivergent individuals lack empathy and instead highlights how misunderstandings happen between different neurotypes. They share personal stories, real-world classroom scenarios, and strategies to help educators bridge the communication gap with their neurodivergent students. Key topics include: The double empathy problem—what it is and why it matters in schools. How educators can shift from assuming misbehavior to seeking understanding. The difference between cognitive empathy (perspective-taking) and affective empathy (emotional conn...2025-02-0633 min
The Cult of Pedagogy Podcast243: Small Changes to Make Your Classroom More Neurodiversity-AffirmingAs our understanding of the human mind gets more sophisticated and nuanced, we're learning how to identify neurodivergence, how to appreciate it, and how to help those who fit under that umbrella navigate the world better. In this episode I'm joined by Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin, authors of the new book Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools. The book offers all kinds of specific guidance that will help teachers reshape their classrooms into places that offer flexible options for students with a wide range of "wiring." In today's episode, they'll share four actionable changes you can make right now to begin that...2025-02-031h 09
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsLearner Variability and Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsIn this episode of Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, Emily and Amanda explore what it truly means to be neurodiversity-affirming in education. They discuss how recognizing and embracing learner variability leads to better outcomes for all students—not just neurodivergent learners. Emily and Amanda are joined by Barbara Pape, Senior Director of Digital Promise’s Learner Variability Project. Barbara shares insights from her work, explaining how educators can shift their perspectives to see design challenges instead of student problems, and why considering the whole child—including cognitive, emotional, and social factors—is key to creating an inclusive learning environment. K...2025-01-3030 min
Full-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent ChildrenTPP 424: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, with Amanda Morin & Emily Kircher-MorrisToday we’re diving into a topic that’s not just timely but that can transform education for all students: creating neurodiversity-affirming schools. Joining me to share their vision for what’s possible in education are two extraordinary advocates and experts, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris who have collaborated on a wonderful new book on the topic, just out today in fact, Neurodiversity Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted & Supported.In today’s episode, we explored why embracing neurodiversity in schools benefits every student, not just those with IEPs. Amanda and Emily unpacked the barriers...2025-01-2153 minFull-Tilt Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent ChildrenTPP 424: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, with Amanda Morin & Emily Kircher-MorrisToday we’re diving into a topic that’s not just timely but that can transform education for all students: creating neurodiversity-affirming schools. Joining me to share their vision for what’s possible in education are two extraordinary advocates and experts, Amanda Morin and Emily Kircher-Morris who have collaborated on a wonderful new book on the topic, just out today in fact, Neurodiversity Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted & Supported.In today’s episode, we explored why embracing neurodiversity in schools benefits every student, not just those with IEPs. Amanda and Emily unpacked the barriers...2025-01-2153 min
Neurodiversity PodcastNew Podcast Alert: Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsThis week, we’re sharing the inaugural episode of the Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools podcast! Today, hosts Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin introduce themselves, and talk about their new book, Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported. This podcast is great as a learning tool on its own, and it's designed to align with the chapters of the book. It provides actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration for educators and parents. Emily and Amanda discuss their personal neurodivergent journeys, how they came to collaborate, and why neurodiversity is a vital topic for schools today. TAKEAWAYS...2025-01-2031 min
Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsNow Is the Time to Build Neurodiversity-Affirming SchoolsWelcome to the inaugural episode of the Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools podcast! Today, hosts Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin introduce themselves, and talk about their new book, Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools: Transforming Practices So All Students Feel Accepted and Supported. This podcast is great as a learning tool on its own, and it's designed to align with the chapters of the book. It provides actionable insights, strategies, and inspiration for educators and parents. Emily and Amanda discuss their personal neurodivergent journeys, how they came to collaborate, and why neurodiversity is a vital topic for schools today. Key topics include: 2025-01-2030 min
Neurodiversity PodcastWhat Neurodivergent People Need to Know About Joining the MilitaryOn episode 245, Emily talks with Dr. Brandi Walker, a retired Army clinical psychologist, about her experience as a psychologist in the military and the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. They talk about her journey of transitioning from a fuel handler to a psychologist, and when and how she developed an interest in ADHD. There are policies and limitations for recruits with ADHD or autism, and they talk about the implications, along with the waiver process that’s involved. Dr. Walker talks about the experiences of neurodivergent military members, and they have solid advice for young neurodivergent individuals considering joining th...2024-10-1033 min
Neurodiversity PodcastAdvocating for Neurodivergent Kids at SchoolSchool is back in session in many parts of the world, which is the time when struggles often begin to surface. On episode 241, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Amanda Morin about the complexities of advocating for neurodivergent children, including utilizing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and the services they require. They explore the qualification process for IEPs, the importance of understanding behavior as communication, and the distinction between medical and educational diagnoses. The conversation emphasizes the need for advocacy, and the importance of tailored support for each child's unique needs. Takeaways IEPs provide specialized services and instruction...2024-09-1233 min
Neurodiversity PodcastDeclarative Language: A New Strategy for Neurodivergent CommunicationOften, neurodivergent people have a completely different communication experience than neurotypicals. They respond differently to regulation, attention, and motivation, and often parents struggle when trying to improve connections with their kids. Linda Murphy is the author of The Declarative Language Handbook, and we present an encore of our conversation from 2023, with ideas on how to reframe communication and break down barriers. To learn more about the Neurodiversity University courses for educators, click the link, and get in touch with us through the contact page if you have questions. Amanda Morin’s The Empathetic Edge podcast ca...2024-03-2138 min
Neurodiversity PodcastLife at 200: We’re Grateful, Excited, and Pass the Pumpkin PieThe Neurodiversity Podcast celebrates its 200th episode! We’re pretty sure we were surprised to hit 10. Probably shocked at 100. But at 200, we’re grateful and excited, and already planning our path to 300! There are few people with whom we’d rather celebrate our landmark than Amanda Morin. She’s Emily’s co-author on a book to be released in 2024, and for episode 200 they talk about the things they’re grateful for as we enter 2023’s holiday season. Thank you for your loyalty, and here’s to many more. Cheers! Amanda Morin has most recently served...2023-11-2532 min
Neurodiversity PodcastLow-Demand Parenting: Bridging Divisions, Fostering TrustEntering the world of neurodiversity often enables personal discovery, and creates challenges. How can parenting nudge adults toward uncovering their own neurodivergence? What is 'low-demand parenting' all about? It’s not simply eliminating expectations, it’s deeper and more nuanced. We’re diving into the complex world of self-discovery and parenting with Amanda Diekman, a late-diagnosed autistic adult, and author of "Low Demand Parenting." Learn more about 2e students by taking our course, Strategies for Supporting Twice-Exceptional Students. It’s great for CE credits for educators, and the course will be enlightening to anyone curious about helping 2e studen...2023-10-1935 min
SENlightenedEp10 The gift of being twice-exceptionalEmily Kircher-Morris is a clinical mental health counsellor specializing in neurodivergent, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners. She is the host of The Neurodiversity Podcast which explores the development of gifted and neurodivergent individuals through their lifespan and is the author of the book “Raising Twice-Exceptional Children: A Handbook for Parents of Neurodivergent Gifted Kids” She is the parent to three neurodivergent children.
The Neurodiversity Podcasthttps://neurodiversitypodcast.com/
Amanda Sokellhttps://community.amandasokell.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.2022-03-1840 min
In It: Raising Kids Who Learn DifferentlyWhat is neurodiversity?The term “neurodiversity” seems to be everywhere right now. But what exactly does it mean? Hosts Amanda Morin and Gretchen Vierstra talk with Emily Kircher-Morris to find out. Emily is a neurodivergent parent to twice-exceptional kids. And she’s the host of The Neurodiversity Podcast. Listen in to hear Emily’s unique perspective on neurodiversity. Related resources What is neurodiversity?All about twice-exceptional studentsThe Neurodiversity PodcastTeaching Twice-Exceptional Learners in Today’s ClassroomsRaising Twice-Exceptional Children
Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to...2021-10-0720 min
Neurodiversity PodcastNeurodivergent Adulting Made EasyEquipping a neurodivergent kid for the adult world can be a challenge. Amanda Morin from Understood.org talks with Emily Kircher-Morris about some of the things you wish someone had told you about that transition. You can download a free excerpt of her new book, Adulting Made Easy: Things Someone Should Have Told You About Getting Your Grown-Up Act Together, on the episode 81 page at www.neurodiversitypodcast.com. ABOUT THE GUEST - Amanda Morin worked as a classroom teacher and as an early intervention specialist for 10 years. She has been working as an education writer since 2007 and...2021-03-3131 min
Neurodiversity PodcastSticks and Stones: Neurodiversity and BullyingSocial norms, diverse personalities, and power dynamics, are some of the most valuable lessons of childhood. When children better understand bullies and how to stand up to them, they also better understand themselves. Amanda Morin joins Emily to talk about diverse personalities and power dynamics, and helping neurodiverse kids understand bullying, on episode 62. About the guest - Amanda Morin worked as a classroom teacher and as an early intervention specialist for 10 years. She has been working as an education writer since 2007 and played an integral role in launching Understood.org in 2014. As an educator and parent of...2020-07-0929 min
Neurodiversity PodcastBeing a SPED Advocate for Twice-Exceptional Kids | Psychology | Education | 2eSpecial education services can make a huge difference in the educational experience of a twice-exceptional child. On episode 32, author and education writer Amanda Morin joins us to discuss some of the services available and share best practices for parents and counselors to effectively advocate on behalf of 2e kids. About the guest - Amanda Morin worked as a classroom teacher and as an early intervention specialist for 10 years. She has been working as an education writer since 2007 and played an integral role in launching Understood.org in 2014. As an educator and also as a parent...2019-05-1533 min