Meet Karen Mayer Cunningham, the passionate advocate and founder behind Special Education Boss. Her journey began not in a courtroom or a classroom, but at home — when her own child needed access to special education services. What started as a mother’s fight became a mission to empower families navigating the complex world of special education. Through her work, Karen is bridging the gap between federal laws designed to protect children with disabilities and the real-world implementation of those rights in schools. Her story embodies resilience, purpose, and the drive to turn personal trials into advocacy that transforms lives — the very spirit that Humans of Fuzia celebrates.
Q: What inspired you to start your current journey?
Karen: It was all three — a person, a challenge, and a moment. My son had a disability when he was little, and when we went to get special education services for him, I thought it would be simple. But it wasn’t. I realized there was a huge gap between what the law promised and what schools delivered. That’s when I decided to bridge that gap and help families understand and advocate for their children’s educational rights.
Q: What challenges did you face while establishing your mission?
Karen: The biggest challenge has been misinformation. There’s often a lack of understanding between the legal obligations under federal and state laws and how schools interpret them. Parents have to overcome that misinformation to ensure their children receive the services they deserve — services that lead to independence, employment, and education. My mission is to guide them through that process.
Q: Do you work solo or have a team supporting you?
Karen: It’s mostly me, but I do have a small team. I have a manager who handles my digital side and referrals, and a virtual assistant who helps with digital content and editing. Together, we make it happen.
Q: What has been your proudest milestone so far?
Karen: Every time a parent uses my content, knowledge, or training to secure services for their child — that’s my biggest achievement. Seeing a child succeed because their parents were empowered with the right information brings me immense joy.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Karen: I believe every person — especially women — should walk the path they were created for. Don’t listen to the “couch coaches” who say you can’t. What’s inside you is your gift to the world. Walk in that truth and lead boldly. There are so many incredible women doing just that.
Q: What message do you have for future women leaders and entrepreneurs?
Karen: We live in an amazing age where you can reach anyone, anywhere. With social media and digital tools, you no longer need a physical office to make an impact. Use these platforms for good — to share your message, your mission, and your purpose with the world.
Q: Many women face imposter syndrome. How do you deal with it?
Karen: I don’t, honestly. I’m very aware of how amazing I am — but I think everyone is amazing! If you’re worried about others’ opinions, that’s not imposter syndrome — that’s fear. Some people will applaud you, others may criticize you, but neither should define you. Stay focused on your calling and keep moving forward.
Q: What does success mean to you, personally and professionally?
Karen: Success is using the gift inside you to bring healing and purpose to others. The calling on your life isn’t for you — it’s for someone else. If you keep it to yourself, you not only stay unfulfilled but also deprive others of what they need from you. Life is short — live it fully, give it all. A mentor once told me, “You should finish life on empty.” That’s my goal — to pour out everything I have into making a difference.
“Whatever you’re called to do — do it boldly, do it fully, and don’t let fear stop you. Finish your life on empty.”
Connect with Karen Mayer Cunningham:
Karen Mayer Cunningham | LinkedIn
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