Navigating the intricate maze of raising children with autism and ADHD is a quest that resonates deeply with many, including myself.  When Jana Fuchs, an expert clinical psychotherapist and coach, joined us, she brought not only her professional expertise but also her personal narrative of fostering a positive dynamic within her family.  Our conversation traversed the rewarding complexities of sibling relationships affected by neurodiversity, the intersection of ADHD and autism, and the essential strategies to empower both children and parents facing social challenges. With Jana's g ..read more

Have you ever wondered what it's like to view the world through a neurodiverse lens?  Dr. Ashley Ruba, a developmental psychologist, peels back the curtain on her life with autism and ADHD, offering a rare glimpse into the delicate tightrope walk of managing the need for structure against the quest for new experiences.  Through her eyes, we navigate the nuanced interplay of social dynamics, the pursuit of academic excellence, and the personal strategies that make day-to-day life both challenging and rewarding.  With Ashley's expertise and candid storytelling, our conversation be ..read more

As the vibrant hues of pageantry blend with the powerful message of inclusion, Katie Griswold stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration during Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month.  Diagnosed with autism at age eight, Katie's story is one of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of self-expression through dance and online education. Her journey echoes the struggles and achievements many face, while her relationship with her brother offers an intimate glimpse into the family dynamics that nurture acceptance and understanding.  Join us to unearth the depths of Katie ..read more

When your world turns upside down after your child's autism diagnosis, where do you turn?  Uzma's compelling journey as a certified autism specialist and parent unfolds in our latest podcast episode, where she candidly shares the heartaches and triumphs of raising a child on the spectrum.  Her story is a beacon for parents wading through the complexities of early signs, diagnosis, and the maze of professional support—or the lack thereof.  Uzma's insistence on clear, jargon-free communication provides comfort and direction, offering a lifeline to those feeling adrift in a sea of ..read more

Every family has its own unique tapestry of experiences, but for Rachel Winder, the threads of her life weaved a particularly intricate pattern.  As an autistic mother raising an autistic child, she faces the world with a perspective that's as enlightening as it is challenging.  Step into Rachel's shoes for a moment and you'll begin to understand the depth of neurodiversity's impact on identity, advocacy, and the unbreakable bond she shares with her son.  Together, we navigate the complex journey of late diagnosis and the battle for recognition and support within a medical commu ..read more

Discovering oneself can be a life-long journey, punctuated by profound moments of realization.  For Madison Sasser, author and unguarded voice of the blogging world, that moment came at 23 with an autism diagnosis.  Her story is one of navigating the murky waters of self-identity and professional life, a tale she recounts with raw honesty in our latest episode.  Madison's narrative is a beacon for anyone who's felt adrift in a sea of societal expectations, providing an intimate look into the complexities of late autism diagnosis and the pursuit of personal truth amidst a career ..read more

Every parent's journey comes with its unique milestones and hurdles, but when you're raising a child on the autism spectrum, those experiences can redefine the very essence of resilience and discovery.  Join me as I sit down with Lynne, the Awesomism Mom, who opens up about the rollercoaster ride parenting her son Peyton has been.  From recognizing the early signs of autism to the evolution of "Awesomism," Lynne's story is one of unwavering love, adaptation, and the pursuit of a life where her son's abilities are not just acknowledged but celebrated. The conversation takes a hopeful ..read more

Imagine stepping into the world of a special education teacher who navigates the same trials and triumphs at home with her own autistic son as she does with her students. Meet Darcy Lippman, a remarkable mother and educator who joins me, Tony Mantor, to unravel the rich tapestry of her experiences with her son. Through Darcy's eyes, we traverse the early days of Jiren's life, confronting developmental delays with a cocktail of love, patience, and early interventions.  Our heartfelt conversation pulls back the curtain on the daily resilience required in parenting and educating a child with ..read more

When Jim Irion finally pieced together the puzzle of his life after an autism diagnosis at 37, it was akin to finding a missing key to a lock long-closed.  Our latest episode offers an intimate glimpse into Jim's powerful narrative, highlighting the profound influence a late diagnosis can have on understanding oneself and redefining one’s life path.  We journey alongside him as he traverses the realities of adult autism, from the daily nuances like tying shoes to the larger life decisions that shape our existence.  His voice serves as a beacon for others who may be grappling wit ..read more

Imagine facing the challenges of parenting not one, but three young children with autism, each with their own unique set of needs and behaviors.  Selena Lanelle, a brave mother and author, joins me to share her deeply moving story that stretches from the heartache of early autism signs in her twins to the complexities of navigating a world that often misunderstands non-verbal communication.  With raw honesty, Selena recounts her family's journey through domestic violence, the reflection on autistic traits within her own marriage, and the eventual empowerment they found on the other s ..read more