The LDA Podcast

In this episode of the LDA Podcast, host Chris Lenois sits down with Dr. Staci Suits, a school neuropsychologist with 30 years of experience and founder of Eduworks North Florida. Dr. Suits shares how school neuropsychology goes beyond traditional evaluations to answer not just whether a student qualifies for services, but why they're struggling — and more importantly, what strengths can be leveraged to support them. They discuss the difference between school psychology and school neuropsycho...

In this episode of the LDA Podcast, Monica McHale-Small sits down with Casey Harrison—licensed dyslexia therapist, certified academic language therapist, and author of Teaching Beyond the Diagnosis—to explore what it truly means to support the whole learner. Casey shares her integrated framework for working with students with dyslexia, which weaves together proper academic instruction with executive function skills, metacognitive awareness, self-esteem, and self-advocacy. Together, they discu...

What are New Approach Methods (NAMs) and how do they compare to traditional rodent testing? Are computer models and cell-based tests reliable for identifying chemicals with potential neurodevelopmental impacts? Learn what NAMs are and why LDA and our partners are concerned that these tests, when misused without appropriate safety factors or other health-protective policies, are likely to result in unsafe chemical regulations that fail to protect children’s brains.

LDA board chair Mark DiPietro talks with Ronnen Harary, co-founder of Spin Master and co-creator of PAW Patrol, about his new book, No Experience Necessary: Why Betting on Yourself in Your 20s Is the Best Decision You'll Ever Make. Ronnen was identified with dysgraphia at age 10 in Toronto's public schools in 1979 and credits his accommodations with getting him through high school. He also describes growing up ashamed of his learning disability, hiding his extra exam time from classmates, and...

Michelle shares her granddaughter’s lead poisoning story, provides tips, and emphasizes resources for families struggling with (affected by? Or dealing with) lead poisoning. Michelle is a parent ambassador with the Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan. LDA’s Healthy Children Project thanks our podcast co-sponsors Healthy Homes Coalition of West Michigan and the Ecology Center. Tracy Gregoire, LDA’s HCP Director, chats with guest speakers Jameela Maun, Michelle Eason, and Meli Garcia. ...