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Podcasts

The podcast and related materials are for training purposes only and are not to be disseminated.

Podcast Episodes from 2025-2026

🎙️ Episode #1. Stronger Together: Partnering for Meaningful Transitions


Listen to Episode 1

Explore the power of collaboration between Parent Mentors, Transition Coordinators, State Support Teams (SSTs), and other transition support staff in championing students with disabilities through key transition points. Our guests share real-world examples, practical strategies, and a call to action for Parent Mentors to build and strengthen these essential partnerships.

Featured Speakers:

Alex Corwin, Former Program Director, OCALI’s Lifespan Transitions Center : ltc@ocali.org

Amy Szymanski, Secondary Transition and Workforce Development Consultant, ODEW Office for Exceptional Children :amy.szymanski@education.ohio.gov

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:


Listen to Episode 2

 

What do IDEA Part C and IDEA Part B mean for young children with disabilities, from services in infancy and toddlerhood? This episode breaks down the key timelines and steps in the transition process, including when planning begins (well before age 3), what a smooth hand-off looks like, and how families and school districts coordinate.

Highlights include how Parent Mentors can support families emotionally and practically, and strategies for developing strong partnerships among parents, early-childhood educators, and service providers make all the difference during transitions.

Featured Speakers:

Karen Kinkaid, Early Intervention Program Consultant, Ohio Department of Children and Youth: Karen.Kincaid@childrenandyouth.ohio.gov

Jennifer Barnes, Education Program Specialist, Ohio Department of Children and Youth: Jennifer.Barnes@childrenandyouth.ohio.gov


Listen to Episode 3

The transition from high school to adulthood can feel overwhelming; graduation pathways, IEP transition planning, and postsecondary options all come into play. But with clear guidance and strong partnerships, this process can open doors for students and families. 

This covers: 

  • Key parts of transition planning within the IEP 
  • Ohio’s graduation requirements and pathways 
  • The difference between a diploma and a certificate 
  • And the supports available as students prepare for life after high school 

Featured Speakers:

Kim Moritz, Parent/Community Engagement and Transition from High School

Amy Freeman, Statewide Transition to Adulthood Program Coordinator at OCECD

Alma Davis, Information Specialist/Trainer at OCECD

Resources and Organizations Mentioned in this Episode 

Download this document containing the organizations and resources mentioned in this podcast, as well as suggested conversation starters on the topics with families.