The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group

About The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group

The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group is a special needs and disability podcast for parents, caregivers, families, professionals, and anyone looking for honest conversations, practical resources, and real-life perspectives. We explore special needs parenting, disabilities, IEPs and special education, occupational therapy, speech therapy, ABA, DIR/Floortime, sensory processing, parent coaching, transition planning, advocacy, inclusion, and the everyday realities families experience along the way. But this isn’t just an educational podcast. Some episodes bring in professionals and experts to help make complicated topics easier to understand. Others center lived experience, parent perspectives, personal stories, and the lessons we learn through our own journeys. And sometimes, we simply sit down and talk — openly and casually — about parenting, family, challenges, progress, and life. Our goal isn’t to tell families what to do or pretend we have all the answers. It’s to ask good questions, connect people with useful information and resources, share different perspectives, and create a community where people can learn from one another. Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, preparing for an IEP meeting, exploring therapies and services, advocating for your child, supporting someone with a disability, or simply looking for a community that understands — there’s a place for you here. The Branch Network Podcast is produced by The Serviceberry Group, where we’re working to build connections, provide resources, and create a stronger community for individuals with disabilities and the families who love and support them. Conversations. Resources. Real Life Solutions.

Publisher

Jeffrey Zielinski

Category

education · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Mar 2026

Latest episode

2 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Oct 2026

   Coffee Talk! School is Back in Session!

   In this conversation, Jeffrey and Renee discuss the ups and downs of parenting, particularly focusing on their experiences with their children as they navigate back to school life. They share humorous anecdotes, insights on communication, and the challenges of understanding their children's behaviors. They explore coping strategies, family traditions, and seasonal activities, emphasizing the importance of grace and understanding in their parenting journeys. They emphasize the value of shared experiences and open conversations to empower parents and foster connections. Takeaways Parenting challenges are universal Communication logs are essential Parenting challenges are universal Coping strategies for kids' behaviors Parenting challenges with special needs Importance of community support Chapters 00:00 Coffee Talk and Parenting Chaos 02:58 Back to School Experiences 06:10 Repetitive Conversations and Stimming 08:53 Understanding Communication Logs 11:58 Navigating School Communication 14:57 Panic and Parenting Fears 20:57 Finding Grace in Parenting 24:08 Understanding Kids' Behaviors 26:54 Coping Mechanisms for Children 28:18 Halloween Planning and Family Activities 30:16 Apple Picking and Seasonal Changes 32:05 Family Gatherings and Traditions 33:28 Cooking and Food Preferences 39:30 Navigating Mealtime Challenges 41:59 Overwhelmed by Parenting Responsibilities 43:59 Finding Support in Community 48:01 Empowerment Through Shared Experiences 52:02 The Value of Open Conversations 56:00 Future Ideas and Collaborations

2. 

   11 Sept 2026

   Parent Coaching: Walking Along This Journey With You

   In this conversation with Beth, we talk about Parent Coaching. Contrary to popular belief this is NOT about telling you how to parent, rather it is about having an advocate walk this journey alongside you while highlighting and recognizing that your presence, not perfection, is the greatest thing you can give. Working with the parents and the family is a crucial pillar to helping special needs children grow and thrive. Tune in! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Parent Coaching 27:21 Navigating Challenges 31:13 The Importance of Community 34:32 Understanding Parenting Skills 37:27 Effective Communication 44:06 Jai Certified Parent Coaching 50:21 The Power of Being Present

3. 

   28 Aug 2026

   Coffee Talk!! Summer Fun & Back to School!!

   Introducing... Coffee Talks!! Coffee Talks will be very casual conversations, sharing stories and having a little fun! In our inaugural Coffee Talk Renee and I talk about parenting, summer activities, and back to school!! Takeaways Summer brings a mix of excitement and challenges for families. Back-to-school preparations involve managing change and anxiety for both parents and children. Parenting challenges vary for each child and require individualized approaches. Special needs parenting involves unique considerations and emotional experiences. Family memories are cherished and often tied to specific events and experiences. The entertainment landscape has evolved, offering instant access to content and changing viewing habits. Family activities contribute to shared experiences and create lasting memories. Chapters 00:00 Summer Conversations 02:59 Back to School Preparations 05:58 Parenting Challenges 08:52 Special Needs Parenting 13:02 Family Memories 26:03 Changing Entertainment Landscape 27:37 Summer Adventures 28:12 Family Day Trips 28:37 Theme Park Fun 30:33 Local Attractions 35:59 Hockey Games and Sports Events 36:23 Preseason Games and Family Experiences 41:40 Fall Activities and Seasonal Preparations

4. 

   7 Aug 2026

   ABA: Evidence Based

   In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Heather Pane as she shares her expertise in applied behavior analysis (ABA). The discussion delves into the understanding of ABA, addressing misconceptions, and highlighting the broad application of ABA beyond autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration, a holistic approach, individualized session planning, and the use of reward systems while maintaining a balance. Takeaways ABA is an evidence and science-based approach that looks at behavior, identifies how behavior works, and aims to increase skills and decrease problem behaviors, among other things. Collaboration, individualization, and data transparency are crucial in the ABA process. Parents are entitled to and should ask for data then collaborate with behavior analysts to understand their child's progress. Collaboration is key to understanding and addressing behavioral trends. Individualized learning and understanding preferred behaviors are essential for effective intervention. Celebrating small wins is crucial for positive reinforcement and motivation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:28 Understanding ABA 03:16 Misconceptions about ABA 08:52 The Broad Application of ABA 12:15 Holistic Approach 15:32 Session Planning and Individualization 18:31 Reward Systems and Balance 22:21 Data Transparency 27:28 The Power of Collaboration 28:12 Understanding Behavior and Learning 30:38 Balancing Individualism and Preferred Behaviors 34:32 Celebrating Small Wins and Achieving Goals 40:03 The Future of ABA and Support for Adults

5. 

   17 Jul 2026

   Routine Builds Resilience!

   Jeffrey Zielinski, in his first solo podcast, discusses the importance of routines and flexibility in parenting, emphasizing the impact on children's development and the challenges faced in maintaining routines. He also highlights the role of flexibility, adaptability, and empowering children through choice, while encouraging and rewarding resilience. Takeaways Routines and flexibility play crucial roles in parenting and child development. Empowering children through choice and encouraging resilience are essential for navigating change and unpredictability. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Shorter Form Podcasts 00:58 The Importance of Routines 04:17 Research Supporting Routines 07:03 Challenges to Routine 10:20 Flexibility and Adaptability 13:14 Empowering Children Through Choice 15:40 Encouraging and Rewarding Resilience

6. 

   19 Jun 2026

   What Exactly is DIR Therapy?

   This conversation not only unwraps what exactly DIR therapy is, but we also explore its principles, impact, and future. Beth, a co-founder of Bridging Worlds OT & DIR Therapy, shares insights on the journey to DIR therapy, differences and complements to other therapies, and the empowering impact on families. The discussion also highlights the socialization aspect of DIR therapy and its potential future in therapeutic intervention. Takeaways DIR therapy empowers families to connect with their children and have successful sessions at home. DIR therapy has a significant impact on social skills, confidence, and overall well-being. The future of DIR therapy holds promise, with increasing recognition and coverage by insurance. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DIR Therapy 06:33 Differentiating DIR from Other Therapies 16:20 DIR Therapy Evaluation Process 27:35 The Socialization Aspect of DIR 34:03 The Future of DIR Therapy 39:25 Empowering Families with DIR Therapy

7. 

   22 May 2026

   Transitionary Planning within Special Needs

   In this episode we cover the topic of transition planning for students with special needs, focusing on the various stages of transition, including the importance of early planning, the role of DVRS and Pre-ETS, work-based learning, community-based instruction, and the significance of IEPs in the transition process. The conversation covers the importance of transition services for students with disabilities, the role of parents in the transition process, and the impact of successful transitions on individuals with disabilities. It also emphasizes the value of patience and the need for exposure to different job experiences. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Early Planning 08:30 Work-Based Learning and Community-Based Instruction 15:22 Counseling and Opportunities in Transition Planning 22:55 The Role of Transition Services 29:27 The Value of Patience and Exposure 39:13 Lessons Learned from the Transition Stage

8. 

   8 May 2026

   Hope & Healing: A Stroke Survivors Story

   Join us for an emotionally deep and wide-ranging conversation where Ashley brings us along the journey of her stroke story. She talks about her life prior to the stroke, the rehabilitation process, obstacles and triumphs, along with the unseen side of stroke recovery while emphasizing the importance of celebrating every win - no matter how small some of them may appear on the surface. She walks us through developed strengths post-stroke, and the importance of community and support. Despite enduring a significant, life-threatening event, Ashley reinforces that positivity and kindness (to yourself and others) are integral to the recovery process. A truly remarkable and inspiring story.

9. 

   24 Apr 2026

   Understanding Occupational Therapy: What it REALLY Means for Children!

   In this episode we chat with Lexi Disbrow, Occupational Therapist & Co-Founder of Bridging Worlds OT & DIR Therapy. She provides invaluable insights while demystifying occupational therapy for families! She emphasizes the importance of building rapport, following the child's lead, and using play as a motivator for therapy, among other things. The conversation covers the importance of working closely with parents, social skills development, building independence, collaboration, celebrating small wins, and taking occupational therapy (OT) home. Lexi emphasizes the significance of these themes in supporting children with diverse needs and the impact on their day-to-day lives. To learn more about Lexi and Bridging Worlds OT & DIR Therapy visit: www.bridgingworldsotdir.com (http://www.bridgingworldsotdir.com) And follow them on Instagram @bridgingworldsotdir

10. 

    27 Mar 2026

    Take the Trip! Listen in as we learn useful & practical tips on planning for travel

    We need to take the phrase we can't out and replace it with we can!! This conversation covers the importance of travel, particularly with special needs children, and the challenges and strategies involved in planning and executing travel experiences. It delves into the unique aspects of Disney travel, the significance of bonding, and the need for both adaptability and structure. As always, we also highlight the significance of community and belonging in the context of travel, especially for families with special needs. Takeaways Travel with special needs children requires careful planning and adaptability Creating familiarity and structure helps reduce stress during travel YouTube videos and TSA Cares program can assist in preparing special needs children for air travel And so much more! #specialneeds #travel #yesyoucan #advocacy #empowerment

11. 

    14 Mar 2026

    Emotional Ranges & Validity

    This conversation delves into the emotional journey of dealing with challenges and advocating for loved ones. It explores the themes of gratitude, vulnerability and empowerment. The journey is challenging but also wonderfully rewarding! Join us as we highlight the importance of validating and embracing one another's emotions.

12. 

    1 Mar 2026

    Welcome to The Serviceberry Group & Branch Network Podcast

    Welcome to The Serviceberry Group! Learn more about us and the impact we intend to make! #branchnetworkpodcast #specialneeds

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

3 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Contact The Branch Network Podcast by The Serviceberry Group

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.