What happens when a student with ADHD and dyslexia doesn’t get boxed in—but instead learns how to push forward anyway?
In this powerful conversation, Karen Mayer Cunningham sits down with Sean Foley to talk about what it really looks like to grow up with learning differences—and why success isn’t about labels, it’s about strategy, support, and resilience.
In This Episode:
Sean shares his journey navigating ADHD, dyslexia, and academic challenges—from early testing and accommodations to earning his MBA and building a successful career in sales and leadership.
Together, Karen and Sean break down what worked, what didn’t, and what parents, educators, and advocates need to understand right now.
You’ll Learn:
✨ The difference between accommodations and true support
✨ Why labels like ADHD can help—or hurt—depending on how they’re used
✨ The role of grit, repetition, and confidence in long-term success
✨ Why standardized testing doesn’t define intelligence or potential
✨ How early intervention (and the right mindset) changes everything
✨ The importance of personal development beyond the classroom
Key Takeaway:
Not every child learns the same—and that’s not a weakness. It’s a different pathway that requires awareness, strategy, and support.
Do you know your rights?
You don’t know what you don’t know—but you need to.
Connect with Sean Foley:
Instagram: @seanmfoley_
LinkedIn: Sean Foley (Scottsdale, AZ)
Ready to go deeper?
Join The Epic IEP Academy, attend the 2-day Intensive, train On-Demand, or join us for the Mastermind. We have training for everyone who sits at the table.
Explore more episodes on Buzzsprout and YouTube
Follow, like, share, and subscribe to stay informed and prepared
✨ When we get it right for the child, we get it right for everybody. ✨
👩⚖️ Hosted by Karen Mayer Cunningham, Advocate & Special Education Boss®
Each week, Karen shares real stories, legal insights, and no-nonsense strategies to help you navigate special education with clarity and confidence.
👉 Subscribe & never miss an episode — new episodes drop every week!
🎓 Join The Academy: Weekly live trainings + 250+ hours of advocacy tools & expert resources
🔗 Learn more at The Epic IEP™ Academy First month free, after that, cancel anytime.
📱 Follow Karen on:
- TikTok & Instagram: @specialeducationboss
- YouTube: Special Education Academy
🧠 Want to level up your advocacy game?
Check out the Advocate's Bookshelf — a curated collection of must-have tools, guides, and legal references every special education advocate should own. From federal code to diagnostic manuals, these are the essentials that help you advocate with clarity and confidence.
📚 Browse now: https://amzn.to/3RiQPLl
(As an Amazon Associate, Karen may earn a small commission if you make a purchase — at no extra cost to you.)
Because when...