Meet Dana Kaplan | Renowned Educational Coach for Out of the Box and 2-E Learners

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dana Kaplan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dana, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

I once was an out-of-the-box learner who needed help . . .

As a child, I understood all too well the pressures of trying to fit into a standard educational mold. I was sensitive, empathetic, justice-oriented, and had ADHD (though I was unaware). My attributes made me a unique and exciting learner who craved attention and affirmation, but was frequently overlooked.

As an adult, I proudly bring my experiences into everything I do, and feel uniquely qualified to connect with out-of-the-box learners to draw out their superpowers. As a renowned Educational Coach and award-winning retired classroom educator and certified trauma specialist, I’m passionate about consciously disrupting current educational systems by actively ensuring accessibility and inclusivity are at the heart of learning. I offer holistic coaching for youth and families, as well as programs for organizations that serve young people and adults with all learning styles.

Using strategic practices from my expertise as a classroom teacher, coupled with coaching skills from years of 1:1 work with students of all ages, I have the ability to quickly get to the root of what’s holding people back, and guide them toward holistic transformation academically, professionally, socially, and personally. I freely and openly create infinite space for learners to crush societal glass ceilings while purposefully designing their own successful lifelong learning journey.

What should our readers know about your business?
My renowned Educational Coaching and Consulting supports and expands Out-of-the-Box and Neurodiverse Learners while holistically nurturing and enriching families and organizations. As an award winning retired classroom educator, certified trauma specialist, and coach for neurodiverse learners, Dana has become an internationally recognized educator for the world. With over two decades educating and focusing on Holistic Brain Health, Dana founded Developing Empathetic Education with Dana (DEED)® just before the pandemic. With ADHD being her superpower, Dana organically cultivates space for uncomfortable conversations while modeling and leading with curiosity, compassion, and courage. Dana’s niche approach to teaching and facilitating the process for deep self-awareness through nonjudgmental self-observation instantly provides opportunities for all ages to dismantle stigmas around neurodivergent learning, mental health, and invisible disabilities.

Dana leads in person and virtual workshops for elementary through post-college age learners in addition to large organizations on discovering and owning one’s superpowers, understanding and accepting their unique (and others’) learning styles and paths, and mastering uncomfortable conversations.

From frequenting stages as the keynote speaker for neurodivergent learning, living, and thriving, Dana’s voice continues to be celebrated and heard in over 150 podcasts. Currently, Dana remains #1 on the podcast Conversations with Warrior Woman, currently rated in the top 1.5% internationally listened to podcasts. Dana has been featured and published as a thought leader in Thrive Global, Ed Post, Nasdaq, and New York School Talk.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

I LOVE creating “field trips” for visitors! Delray drew me in with the ease and flow of beach life. No matter what you choose, ice cream is on every corner, delicious restaurants cover downtown, and precious stores filled with the latest styles and eclectic art are always at your fingertips.

Coffee lovers must experience Carmela’s amazing coffee creations and the avocado toast is NEXT LEVEL! Of course, indulging in The Opal’s extravagant Sunday brunch is highly recommended for those that want to be near the ocean. Late afternoon cocktails are served best on The Ray’s rooftop bar, and for sushi lovers, make a reservation at Akira!

As a beach lover, the simple joys of crossing the bridge and walking up the hill towards the ocean and sand are never lost on me. Even if you miss the sunrise, sitting by the ocean as the sun continues to shine across the sky and heat the sea is MAGIC! If you’re staying for a while, definitely rent chairs and an umbrella. Regardless of the season, the sun is strong and SPF is a must.

No matter the direction you choose, consciously lift your face to the sun and breathe in the fresh air. Delray’s vacation vibes are felt everywhere!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

I have ALWAYS surrounded myself with people that are smarter than me. Knowing I’m an expert in my field benefits all that I’m serving, guiding, and supporting, and for me to be the conscious expander for others, I intentionally seek out thought leaders, mentors, and coaches that believe in critical thinking, uncomfortable conversations, and openly share their gifts with the world.

Reframing thoughts and narratives through writing, breath work, and meditation have become essential daily practices. Currently, I work weekly with my coach, Nickey Sampson and actively participate in a weekly Mastermind led by Liz Svatek. Intentionally choosing to carve time for me has profoundly impacted my personal and professional transformation because I am now actively embodying the practices I have taught for over two decades to thousands of children and families.

Radical self-acceptance is one of the most magical gifts I have given myself and continue to focus on daily because I want to ensure every person I work with wholesomely believes they are enough and belong in every arena!

Website: www.danakaplanteach.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danakaplan_deed/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dana-kaplan-9b19ab71/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dana.kaplan.716

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFD9AIvvYgyTdzdbm0A4gFA

Other: 📧 dana@danakaplanteach.com

Image Credits
Eva Simon Photography