https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/learning-differently--6679291
On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional differences actually learn, why traditional school can be so challenging for them, and what really helps them thrive.

We dive into ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, autism, executive function, and more, breaking down the science, sharing real stories, and offering practical tools for the people who support these students every day.]]>enEducationFusion Academyhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/8d7afbfef26da18e1a9ed4d51616c07d.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/learning-differently--6679291Mon, 03 Aug 2026 19:54:36 +0000Fusion AcademyFusion Academyfusion.learningdifferently@gmail.comWhen we understand how students learn, we help unlock who they can become. On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional...
On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional differences actually learn, why traditional school can be so challenging for them, and what really helps them thrive.

We dive into ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, autism, executive function, and more, breaking down the science, sharing real stories, and offering practical tools for the people who support these students every day.]]>falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/we-didn-t-know-school-could-feel-like-this--73401347
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Alex Arnese host a student roundtable with three Fusion Academy students. Together, they walk through the full journey from struggling in traditional school environments to finding a new path at Fusion Academy.

You will hear what it felt like to navigate social pressure, uncertainty, and fear of change, along with the moments that helped rebuild confidence and a sense of belonging. From surviving school to feeling engaged again, these students share what truly made the difference.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73401347Tue, 04 Aug 2026 10:00:02 +0000Fusion AcademyWhen school is not working, students often carry more than just academic stress. They carry self-doubt, silence, and the belief that something is wrong with them. In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Alex Arnese host...
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Alex Arnese host a student roundtable with three Fusion Academy students. Together, they walk through the full journey from struggling in traditional school environments to finding a new path at Fusion Academy.

You will hear what it felt like to navigate social pressure, uncertainty, and fear of change, along with the moments that helped rebuild confidence and a sense of belonging. From surviving school to feeling engaged again, these students share what truly made the difference.]]>1422falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/conscious-parenting-for-students-who-learn-differently--72840249
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Daniel Patterson sit down with Dr. Shefali to explore the core principles of conscious parenting and what it means for families raising children who learn or experience the world differently.

Together, they unpack the tension many parents feel between accepting their child as they are and wanting to help them grow. Dr. Shefali introduces her concept of “child essences,” offering a lens for understanding patterns like anxiety, overachievement, or withdrawal in a more compassionate and insightful way.

This conversation challenges the instinct to fix and instead invites parents to look inward, examining how their own expectations, fears, and conditioning shape the way they show up. For any parent lying awake wondering if they are doing enough or doing too much, this episode offers both clarity and reassurance.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72840249Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:03 +0000Fusion AcademyWhat if the shift your child needs starts with you? In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Daniel Patterson sit down with Dr. Shefali to explore the core principles of conscious parenting and what it means for families...
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Daniel Patterson sit down with Dr. Shefali to explore the core principles of conscious parenting and what it means for families raising children who learn or experience the world differently.

Together, they unpack the tension many parents feel between accepting their child as they are and wanting to help them grow. Dr. Shefali introduces her concept of “child essences,” offering a lens for understanding patterns like anxiety, overachievement, or withdrawal in a more compassionate and insightful way.

This conversation challenges the instinct to fix and instead invites parents to look inward, examining how their own expectations, fears, and conditioning shape the way they show up. For any parent lying awake wondering if they are doing enough or doing too much, this episode offers both clarity and reassurance.]]>2761falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-school-stops-feeling-safe--72280500
In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Joie Laykoff are joined by Jodie Patterson to examine what emotional safety really looks like for students. They discuss how traditional school environments can fall short, especially for students navigating identity, and what it means for a child to feel connected and accepted.

The conversation explores how parents can begin to understand behavior as communication, how to support children who are trying to figure themselves out, and how to recognize when a school environment may no longer be the right fit.

This episode offers a thoughtful look at how belonging and understanding shape a student’s ability to learn and grow.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72280500Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:00:02 +0000Fusion AcademyWhen a child does not feel understood at school, the impact goes far beyond academics. In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Joie Laykoff are joined by Jodie Patterson to examine what emotional safety really looks like for students. They...
In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Joie Laykoff are joined by Jodie Patterson to examine what emotional safety really looks like for students. They discuss how traditional school environments can fall short, especially for students navigating identity, and what it means for a child to feel connected and accepted.

The conversation explores how parents can begin to understand behavior as communication, how to support children who are trying to figure themselves out, and how to recognize when a school environment may no longer be the right fit.

This episode offers a thoughtful look at how belonging and understanding shape a student’s ability to learn and grow.]]>3086falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/are-learning-differences-superpowers--71863661
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Joie Laykoff sit down with education consultant and author Mary Miele to explore what it truly means to move beyond labels like “disability” and embrace student strengths. Drawing from decades of experience and real-life insights, Mary shares how language, mindset, and executive functioning strategies shape a child’s learning journey—and how parents and educators can create environments where students feel capable, understood, and empowered. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating fear, uncertainty, or frustration around learning differences—and ready to move toward clarity and possibility.

What you’ll gain from this episode:

• How to shift from a deficit-based mindset to an ability-forward approach
• Practical ways to talk to children about their learning differences with confidence
• A clear understanding of executive functioning and how it impacts learning
• Strategies to build resilience, independence, and self-awareness in students
• Tools to strengthen collaboration between families and schools

Don’t risk letting outdated labels limit your child’s potential—learn how to reframe learning differences and unlock what’s truly possible.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71863661Tue, 05 May 2026 10:00:03 +0000Fusion AcademyLearning differences don’t have to define a student’s limits—this episode reveals how an ability-forward approach to learning differences can unlock confidence, growth, and real success. If you’ve ever wondered how to better support a child who learns...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Joie Laykoff sit down with education consultant and author Mary Miele to explore what it truly means to move beyond labels like “disability” and embrace student strengths. Drawing from decades of experience and real-life insights, Mary shares how language, mindset, and executive functioning strategies shape a child’s learning journey—and how parents and educators can create environments where students feel capable, understood, and empowered. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating fear, uncertainty, or frustration around learning differences—and ready to move toward clarity and possibility.

What you’ll gain from this episode:

• How to shift from a deficit-based mindset to an ability-forward approach
• Practical ways to talk to children about their learning differences with confidence
• A clear understanding of executive functioning and how it impacts learning
• Strategies to build resilience, independence, and self-awareness in students
• Tools to strengthen collaboration between families and schools

Don’t risk letting outdated labels limit your child’s potential—learn how to reframe learning differences and unlock what’s truly possible.]]>2995falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-personalized-education-works-for-students-who-learn-differently--69006668
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Joie Laykoff to explore the future of education through the lens of personalization. They unpack what’s working, what’s changing, and what still needs to shift to truly serve students with learning, social, and emotional differences. From one-to-one models to tech-free flexibility, this episode challenges the old assumptions of “what school should be” and paints a picture of what it could become.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like to build a system around students instead of fitting students into a system…this conversation is for you.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69006668Tue, 16 Dec 2025 11:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademyWhat if school wasn’t something students had to survive, but something designed for who they are? In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Joie Laykoff to explore the future of education through...
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Joie Laykoff to explore the future of education through the lens of personalization. They unpack what’s working, what’s changing, and what still needs to shift to truly serve students with learning, social, and emotional differences. From one-to-one models to tech-free flexibility, this episode challenges the old assumptions of “what school should be” and paints a picture of what it could become.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like to build a system around students instead of fitting students into a system…this conversation is for you.
]]>3076falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-to-help-neurodiverse-students-through-school-transitions--68739964
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Shayna Abraham about why transitions are so hard for neurodiverse students and what adults can do to make those moments less overwhelming…and more empowering.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68739964Tue, 02 Dec 2025 11:00:17 +0000Fusion AcademyFrom switching schools to moving up a grade, transitions can be especially challenging for students with learning, emotional, or social differences. Change brings uncertainty and for some kids, that can trigger anxiety, shutdowns, or regression. In...
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Shayna Abraham about why transitions are so hard for neurodiverse students and what adults can do to make those moments less overwhelming…and more empowering.]]>2421falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/twice-exceptional-2e-supporting-gifted-students-with-learning-differences--68552756
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Dan Peters to explore the misunderstood world of 2e students. They unpack what it means to be both gifted and challenged, why these students often go unnoticed, and what schools can do to help them thrive.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68552756Tue, 18 Nov 2025 11:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademyGifted kids aren’t supposed to struggle, right? That’s one of the biggest myths about twice-exceptional, or 2e, students. These learners may have exceptional talents and also face learning, emotional, or attentional challenges that make school...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Dan Peters to explore the misunderstood world of 2e students. They unpack what it means to be both gifted and challenged, why these students often go unnoticed, and what schools can do to help them thrive.]]>2906falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/autism-how-to-support-communication-social-and-sensory-challenges--68337957
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Damon Korb to explore how autism shows up in real classrooms and what parents, educators, and clinicians can do to help students feel seen, supported, and successful.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68337957Tue, 04 Nov 2025 11:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademyAutistic students often struggle not because they can’t learn, but because schools weren’t built with them in mind. From overwhelming environments to misunderstood behaviors, traditional classrooms can create unnecessary barriers to connection and...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Damon Korb to explore how autism shows up in real classrooms and what parents, educators, and clinicians can do to help students feel seen, supported, and successful.]]>2712falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/school-avoidance-how-to-re-engage-bullied-depressed-students--68149906
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang speak with Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson about why some students shut down and how we can help them re-engage. You'll learn what to look for, how to respond with empathy, and what kinds of school environments support emotional recovery.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68149906Tue, 21 Oct 2025 10:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademyWhen students stop showing up, emotionally or physically, it’s rarely about laziness. School avoidance is often tied to anxiety, depression, or past experiences that make school feel overwhelming or unsafe. In this episode of Learning Differently,...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang speak with Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson about why some students shut down and how we can help them re-engage. You'll learn what to look for, how to respond with empathy, and what kinds of school environments support emotional recovery.]]>3012falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trauma-s-hidden-impact-on-learning--67984840
In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Shayna Abraham about how trauma shows up in school, how it’s often misread, and how educators and parents can create environments where healing and learning can happen side by side.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67984840Tue, 07 Oct 2025 10:00:09 +0000Fusion AcademyTrauma rewires the brain. For many students, the effects show up not just emotionally, but academically and behaviorally, too. They aren’t just distracted. They’re trying to survive. In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with...
In this episode, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Shayna Abraham about how trauma shows up in school, how it’s often misread, and how educators and parents can create environments where healing and learning can happen side by side.]]>2176false7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-sensory-processing-differences-disrupt-learning-and-focus--67806413
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Joie Laykoff about how sensory issues show up in the classroom, how to spot them, and what adjustments can make school feel safe and supportive for all learners.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67806413Tue, 23 Sep 2025 10:00:07 +0000Fusion AcademySensory processing differences can make everyday school experiences overwhelming. Bright lights, loud bells, scratchy clothes: what’s background for most can feel unbearable for some. In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian...
In this episode of Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Joie Laykoff about how sensory issues show up in the classroom, how to spot them, and what adjustments can make school feel safe and supportive for all learners.]]>2725falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/helping-anxious-children-manage-stress-feel-safe-at-school--67636292
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Dr. Marta Shinn about what school anxiety really looks like, how it disrupts learning, and what can actually help students feel safe and supported again. You’ll walk away with insights that challenge assumptions—and practical tools you can use tomorrow.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67636292Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademySchool shouldn’t feel like a threat—but for many students, it does. Whether it’s the fear of tests, overwhelming environments, or the pressure to fit in, anxiety can hijack a student’s ability to learn. In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Dr. Marta Shinn about what school anxiety really looks like, how it disrupts learning, and what can actually help students feel safe and supported again. You’ll walk away with insights that challenge assumptions—and practical tools you can use tomorrow.]]>4137falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/executive-function-how-to-build-the-skills-schools-ignore--67466223
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Dr. Damon Korb about what executive dysfunction looks like in real classrooms, why traditional systems make it worse, and how to help students build the skills they need to thrive.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67466223Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademySome students aren’t lazy or forgetful. They’re struggling with executive function. From organization and time management to emotional regulation and mental flexibility, executive functioning skills are the foundation of learning success—but they’re...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang talk with Dr. Damon Korb about what executive dysfunction looks like in real classrooms, why traditional systems make it worse, and how to help students build the skills they need to thrive.]]>3209falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dyslexia-recognizing-and-supporting-struggling-readers--67288193
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Dan Peters to explore the science of dyslexia, how to spot it, and what actually works to support struggling readers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or clinician, this episode delivers clarity, compassion, and tools that make a real difference.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67288193Tue, 12 Aug 2025 10:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademyDyslexia isn’t about intelligence—it’s a difference in how the brain processes language. And when schools don’t catch it early, students often internalize shame, anxiety, and frustration. In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna...
In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr. Dan Peters to explore the science of dyslexia, how to spot it, and what actually works to support struggling readers. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or clinician, this episode delivers clarity, compassion, and tools that make a real difference.]]>3232falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/social-struggles-how-to-help-neurodiverse-students-build-friendships--67116591https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67116591Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:00:08 +0000Fusion AcademySome students don’t just struggle with academics. They struggle to connect. Whether it’s due to anxiety, autism, ADHD, or past experiences, social difficulties can leave students feeling isolated and misunderstood.In this episode of Learning...3125falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/adhd-helping-students-stay-focused-organized-and-motivated--67012967https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67012967Thu, 17 Jul 2025 12:30:07 +0000Fusion AcademyWhat does ADHD really look like in the classroom, and how can you actually help a student who’s struggling with focus, organization, or motivation?In this episode of Learning Differently, hosts Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Mike Wang sit down with Dr....2963falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welcome-to-learning-differently--66903435
On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional differences actually learn, why traditional school can be so challenging for them, and what really helps them thrive.

We dive into ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, autism, executive function, and more, breaking down the science, sharing real stories, and offering practical tools for the people who support these students every day.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66903435Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:39:41 +0000Fusion AcademyWhen we understand how students learn, we help unlock who they can become. On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional...
On Learning Differently, Lynna Martinez-Khalilian and Michael Wang talk with parents, educators, and experts to explore how students with learning, social, and emotional differences actually learn, why traditional school can be so challenging for them, and what really helps them thrive.

We dive into ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, autism, executive function, and more, breaking down the science, sharing real stories, and offering practical tools for the people who support these students every day.]]>76falsefull