About this episode

The episode features an interview with Brooke Wagner discussing her experience in autism services and the evolution of therapeutic approaches.

On the Young Special Podcast, host interviews Brooke Wagner, owner of Therapeutic Approach to Growth (TAG) and host of the “Finding Hope on the Spectrum” podcast, about her 25+ years in autism services and how the field has shifted from traditional discrete trial drills toward presuming competence and more meaningful, child-focused supports. Wagner explains ABA as a science of shaping behavior and describes TAG’s naturalistic, play-based model that emphasizes internal motivation over token systems and external reinforcers. She details Relationship Development Intervention (RDI) as a parent-empowering, family-focused approach centered on building a guiding relationship, quality of life, and connection through strategies like declarative communication. They discuss collaboration challenges with schools, funding sources (regional centers, insurance, districts), concerns about private equity in ABA, her podcast’s goal of sharing overlooked resources, and her message to parents to keep hope and set a clear vision for their child’s future. Visit our website: www.unspecialllc.com #specialeducation #specialed #podcast #unspecial #specialneedsjourney #specialneedskids #interview #truth…

People in this episode

Host: UNspecial LLC

Guest: Brooke Wagner

Topics covered

• autism services
• behavioral therapy
• parent empowerment
• child-focused supports
• collaboration challenges
• hope for parents

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Therapeutic Approach to Growth, Finding Hope on the Spectrum, ABA, Relationship Development Intervention, regional centers, insurance, districts, Instagram

Products: Special Dayz

Places: Zack

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• Motherhood and Dravet Syndrome a battle untold · April 6, 2026 · 1h 2m
• Breaking the Cycle: Overcoming Stress Responses in Children · March 30, 2026 · 1h 8m
• House to Harmony: Redefining Family Life with Unique Challenges. · March 23, 2026 · 1h 3m

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