This podcast is about diving deep into practical tips and strategies for shifting mindsets, fostering positive thinking, and unlocking one's true potential. Each episode brings actionable insights, real-life stories, and expert interviews to guide you to a resilient and empowered mindset.
This podcast is about diving deep into practical tips and strategies for shifting mindsets, fostering positive thinking, and unlocking one's true potential. Each episode brings actionable insights, real-life stories, and expert interviews to guide you to a resilient and empowered mindset.
To connect with UnDo and support the mission, visit https://linktr.ee/undomindset.
On social media, use #UndoUnplugged or DM us @undomindset on Instagram and LinkedIn
For more information on Daren Norris and Flying Pig Psychotherapy, visit flyingpigpsychotherapy.com.
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In this eye-opening episode, hosts Erin and Daren sit down with Sharon Dunlevy, educational advocate and foster care disruptor, to expose the systemic gaps hurting foster youth. From IEP battles for trauma diagnoses to the real cost of "stability," Sharon shares how to turn "that’s just how it is" into "here’s how we fix it."
What We Covered:
- "Trauma Isn’t a Diagnosis (But It Should Be)"
- The Every Student Succeeds Act
- "Fight, Flight, or Freeze" in the Classroom
- Foster Parent Burnout
Actionable Strategies:
✅ For Educators: Use "Other Health Impairment" IEP category to advocate for trauma supports (even without a "diagnosis").
✅ For Foster Parents: Demand transportation under ESSA—schools must provide it if staying benefits the child.
✅ For Everyone: Stop asking why a child misbehaves. Ask what they need instead.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Trauma: A Response, Not an Event
02:57 The Impact of Trauma on Education
05:51 Sharon's Journey: From Special Education to Advocacy
08:03 The Role of Educational Advocates
11:47 Barriers in the Education System for Foster Youth
13:03 The Need for Trauma-Informed Education
17:10 The Spectrum of Trauma Responses
20:45 The Nuances of Trauma in Childhood
23:45 Navigating Identity and Leadership in Foster Care
24:13 Understanding Trauma Responses in Foster Youth
25:55 The Importance of Trust in Educational Settings
27:49 Identifying Behavioral Patterns in Trauma-Affected Children
30:02 Maslow's Hierarchy and Meeting Children's Needs
32:20 The Complexity of Foster Care Experiences
34:15 Mental Health Support for Foster Parents
36:00 Legal Rights of Foster Families
42:29 Addressing Mental Health in Society
New episodes are released bi-weekly every other Monday.
Connect with Sharon:
LinkedIn: Sharon Dunlevy
ESSA: Every Student Succeeds Act
If you’ve tried any of the strategies discussed or have your own tips, share them with us on social media using #UndoUnplugged.
Let’s keep the conversation going!
