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Children First Podcast

Children First Podcast

By: The Pod Mill
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About this listen

 Welcome to the Children First Podcast — the official podcast of Children First Education Fund (CFEF), Utah’s only state-designated scholarship granting organization dedicated to expanding education choice for students with disabilities.

Each episode dives into the heart of the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship program — featuring real stories from families, expert insights from educators and advocates, and in-depth conversations with donors, schools, and leaders shaping special education policy in Utah. Whether you're a parent navigating the scholarship process, a school looking to better serve students with disabilities, or a donor exploring the 100% Utah state tax credit, this podcast is your guide to how we’re building better outcomes, one student at a time.

Tune in to explore:
  • How Utah families are using scholarships for private school and homeschool success
  • What donors need to know about the unique 1-for-1 tax credit opportunity
  • The latest updates in special education law and school choice policy
  • Tools and tips from CFEF staff to simplify applications, reimbursements, and approvals
Available on all major podcast platforms.

Learn more at cfe-fund.org

Together, we're putting children first — and giving every Utah family a choice.Copyright The Pod Mill Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • 7. The Impact of Epilepsy on Learning with Brisa Ayub

    7. The Impact of Epilepsy on Learning with Brisa Ayub
    Jan 30 2026
    In this episode of the Children First Podcast, host Ronnie Daniel speaks with Brisa Ayub, a dedicated mother and advocate for her daughter with epilepsy. Brisa shares her family's journey in navigating school choice, the challenges they faced, and how the Carson Smith Opportunity Scholarship has transformed their educational experience. The conversation highlights the importance of advocacy, resilience, and the impact of finding the right educational fit for children with disabilities.
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    21 mins
  • Your Children's Future is Worth It with Elisa Clements Linde

    Your Children's Future is Worth It with Elisa Clements Linde
    Jan 30 2026
    In this episode of the Children First Podcast, host Ronnie Daniel speaks with Elisa Clements Linde, a national leader in education choice and COO of the American Federation for Children. They discuss Elisa's personal journey in education, the importance of parental empowerment in choosing educational options, and the significant legislative victories that have expanded educational opportunities for families, particularly in Utah. Elisa shares inspiring success stories, the unique aspects of Utah's education landscape, and the critical role of donor contributions in supporting students with special needs. The conversation concludes with encouragement for parents navigating educational choices and a hopeful outlook for the future of education reform
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    22 mins
  • 5. When Finances and Family Bring You Onto the Board with Don Mantyla

    5. When Finances and Family Bring You Onto the Board with Don Mantyla
    Jan 28 2026
    In this episode of the Children First Podcast, host Ronnie interviews Don Mantyla, a board member of the Children First Education Fund. They discuss Don's journey with the organization, the importance of tax credits for donations, and the impact of contributions on children with special needs. Don shares his personal experiences as a parent of a child with autism and emphasizes the need for educational choices for families. The conversation highlights the benefits of supporting the organization and encourages listeners to explore scholarship opportunities for children with disabilities.
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    26 mins
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