IEPs to Degrees — Becoming the Role Model I Never Had
Episode 9: IEPs to Degrees – Becoming the Role Model I Never Had with Brad Butler II – Starting With IEP
About This Episode
In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Brad Butler II shares how his life was transformed by educators who refused to give up on him. Growing up with an IEP, Brad faced years of self-doubt and low expectations from others. Yet, through persistence and faith, he discovered that his learning challenges were not barriers but stepping stones toward a greater purpose.
Now, as a motivational speaker and educational consultant, Brad travels the country teaching students, teachers, and parents how to rewrite their narratives.
He talks with Flor about what it means to become “the role model I never had” — and how resilience, representation, and self-awareness can help every student with an IEP see their own potential.
This episode is a reminder that the IEP process isn’t just about goals on paper. It’s about nurturing human potential and believing that every learner’s story can end in success.
Highlights from Brad’s Story
• “I am who I needed when I was younger.”
Brad describes how his mission as an educational consultant and speaker grew from wanting to be the mentor he never had. Today, he works with schools to build character education, leadership, and a culture of empathy — for both teachers and students.
• Changing school culture starts with connection.
He explains that transformation happens when influential students lead by example and educators learn to “connect with hearts before teaching minds.”
• Teachers must take care of themselves first.
Brad emphasizes that burnout prevents teachers from giving their best. “You’re giving students your leftovers,” he says. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
• Labels don’t define potential.
Brad shares how spending 10 years in special education led him to internalize shame, especially when classmates mocked him. Yet, his resilience grew from those experiences. “Every failed test, every name they called me — it made me who I am today.”
• College on his own terms.
Even when told college “wasn’t an option,” Brad refused to settle. After graduating high school in special education, he started at community college, worked two jobs, and cared for his father after a brain aneurysm. “I learned to ask for help, to lean on my strengths, and to stay until I finished what I started.”
“Don’t be perfect. Be present. But don’t just be present — participate.”
— Brad Butler II
Reflection
Brad’s story is a reminder that IEPs are not just documents. They are lifelines that can evolve into degrees, careers, and leadership if we nurture the student behind the plan. His journey also highlights what educators and families can accomplish when connection comes before correction.
Resources Mentioned
- Brad’s book that we mentioned a number of times is called Pain, Passion, Purpose
- Learn more about Brad’s work at his website www.bradbutler2.com
- Connect with Brad on social media:
Instagram: @mr.bradbutler2
TikTok: @mr.bradbutler2
YouTube: @BradButlerII
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bradbutlerII/
Facebook Motivational Speaker: https://www.facebook.com/BradButlerThe2nd/
Listen & Subscribe
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Join the Conversation
What part of Brad’s story resonated most with you? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us using #IEPPodcast and #IEPSuccessStories.
