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Children First Podcast

Children First Podcast

Written 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
  • 3. A Military Dad Finds Long Term Answers with Jonathan Smith

    3. A Military Dad Finds Long Term Answers with Jonathan Smith
    Dec 22 2025
    What do you do when you realize your child is extremely intelligent but needs the proper guidance to unlock that intelligence? Would you have enough resources to invest in order to help them achieve all that they are capable of? Jonathan Smith sits down with Ronnie to go over his family's situation with their autistic son and how a life of early travel in the military has given way to finding a great solution long term for their family via Children's First Education Fund.
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    18 mins
  • 2. Looking From the Top Down With Dr. Galey Colosimo

    2. Looking From the Top Down With Dr. Galey Colosimo
    Dec 22 2025
    In this episode of the Children First Education Fund podcast, host Ronnie Daniel speaks with Galey Colosimo, principal of Juan Diego High School, about the importance of education choice, the impact of scholarships on students with disabilities, and the role of tax credit giving in supporting educational opportunities. Galey shares insights on how school choice has transformed Juan Diego, increased diversity, and improved special education programs. He also discusses the need for advocacy in private education funding and addresses common opposition to education choice, emphasizing the benefits for all families.
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    25 mins
  • 1. Navigating Special Education: Insights from a Father's Journey

    1. Navigating Special Education: Insights from a Father's Journey
    Dec 16 2025
    Welcome to the Children First podcast! In this episode host Ronnie Daniel speaks with Matt Field, a father and business leader, about his personal journey navigating special education for his son with autism. They discuss the importance of education choice, community engagement, and the impact of corporate responsibility in supporting families with special needs. Matt shares insights on the challenges and joys of raising a child with learning disabilities and encourages other business leaders to invest in educational initiatives that make a difference in the lives of children.
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    33 mins
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