Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education Leadership
Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education Leadership
Podcast Description
“Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education Leadership” is the official podcast of MAASE, where we amplify the stories, insights, and innovations shaping the future of special education leadership across Michigan.
Each episode features authentic conversations with administrators, educators, advocates, and change-makers who are making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities.
Whether you’re a seasoned director or just starting your journey, this podcast is your go-to space for professional growth, inspiration, and connection with peers who share your purpose.
Listen in, learn something new, and stay connected to the pulse of special education in Michigan.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on special education leadership, highlighting topics such as innovative practices, policy changes, and personal experiences in the field. Examples of episodes include discussions on the challenges faced by educators and leaders, along with strategies for fostering an inclusive educational environment.

“Field Notes: Conversations in Special Education Leadership” is the official podcast of MAASE, where we amplify the stories, insights, and innovations shaping the future of special education leadership across Michigan.
Each episode features authentic conversations with administrators, educators, advocates, and change-makers who are making a difference in the lives of students with disabilities.
Whether you’re a seasoned director or just starting your journey, this podcast is your go-to space for professional growth, inspiration, and connection with peers who share your purpose.
Listen in, learn something new, and stay connected to the pulse of special education in Michigan.
Think advocacy is too complicated or political?
Think again. In this episode of Field Notes, Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE) Executive Director, Abby Cypher hands the hosting mic to MAASE Vice President Elect, Dr. Amanda Unger for a candid conversation about making legislative advocacy accessible.
Joined by Dr. Erin Senkowski (Advocacy Committee Chair), Matt Kurta (Lobbyist, Karoub Associates), and Dr. Sheryl Kennedy (Consultant and former State Representative), the panel breaks down how true advocacy is simply about relationship-building and storytelling.
Whether you are a veteran administrator or a first-year educator, this episode proves that you are the expert legislators need to hear from.
Tune in to learn:
- The Neighbor Metaphor: Why you should build relationships before you need to borrow the lawnmower.
- The Power of the One Pager: Why busy legislators prefer concise visuals over dense reports.
- Elevator Speeches: How to boil down complex issues like special education funding, Project SEARCH, and staffing shortages into a clear, unified message.
Reference Links:
- Special Education Legislative Summit 2026: https://specialeducationlegislativesummit.org/
- MAASE Advocacy Committee: https://www.maase.org/advocacy-committee

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.