Moms Talk Autism Podcast

This week, we’re all over the place—in the best way. Shannon is trying to figure out where behavior ends and anxiety begins, Tash is getting ready for her big England adventure, Jean is talking women’s heart health, and Brittney is bracing for the wild world of middle school. Basically: parenting, travel, health, transitions, and the usual “are we doing this right?” conversations. Come hang out with us. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Bonnie Nofsinger shares expert insights on planning and executing vacations for families with neurodivergent members. We discuss challenges, strategies, and tips to create enjoyable, inclusive travel experiences. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this lighthearted episode, we’re talking all things summer—favorite foods, travel plans, bucket-list adventures, beach days, concerts, festivals, and the vacations we still can’t stop thinking about. We share some of our best summer memories, talk about the sensory chaos that can come with a day at the beach, and dream about future adventures—including whether we could actually survive something like Coachella. We also check in on what summer really looks like for families, especially caregivers and anyone living somewhere that feels approximately seven inches from the sun. It’s a fun, nostalgic, very real conversation about making the most of summer, staying connected, and finding joy wherever we can. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Jean and Tash sit down with Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, to talk about the work the organization is doing to support individuals with disabilities and their families. Kendra shares how she found her way into the nonprofit world, why advocacy and collaboration matter so much, and the personal stories that continue to drive her work. It’s a hopeful and heartfelt conversation about creating stronger support systems—and the real difference they can make for families. IG: eastersealshq Linkedin: Easterseals, Kendra Davenport https://drive.google.com/open?id=1UUHOmhQ7JclckXif11pwRTtWO60_yYSS Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Shannon and Brittney talk about one of those feelings no one really wants to admit out loud: jealousy. After reading a listener email about feeling jealous of families with neurotypical kids, they unpack what is often underneath it all—grief. Grief for the conversations you wish you could have, the experiences you pictured, and the version of parenting you thought you were going to get. They also share their own experiences with acceptance, mental health, supportive friendships, and the way grief can sneak back in when you least expect it. This is an honest conversation about giving yourself grace, finding people who truly get it, and knowing that having hard feelings does not make you a bad parent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we’re joined by Erin Clarelli, a neurodiversity-affirming occupational therapist, to rethink the way we understand behavior, communication, and motor challenges in autistic and disabled children. Erin explains why behavior is often a form of communication—especially for nonspeaking individuals—and why interpreting that behavior can feel so complicated for parents. We discuss the power of connection, narration, and slowing down long enough to understand what a child may be communicating through their body. We also explore apraxia and the misconception that it only affects speech. Erin explains how motor-planning differences can impact the entire body, including a child’s ability to begin, stop, or complete an action—even when they understand exactly what is being asked of them. The conversation also takes an honest look at the limitations of the insurance-driven therapy model and why progress cannot always be measured through checkboxes, compliance, or isolated skills. Erin shares how scaffolding, individualized support, parent coaching, and a more holistic approach can help children participate without placing unnecessary pressure on them. Most importantly, we talk about empowering parents to trust what they see, ask better questions, and become active partners in their child’s care. Therapy should not be about fixing a child. It should be about understanding their needs, supporting their autonomy, and helping them feel safe and successful in their own body. Find Erin at: Website: https://www.sunrisetherapiesinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunrise.therapies Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Moms Talk Autism , we’re talking about the kind of friendship that can make a hard day feel a little less impossible. After receiving a listener email from someone who wants to better support her friend raising an autistic child, we dive into what helpful support can actually look like—and why simply showing up without judgment can mean more than people realize. We talk about navigating outings, communicating needs, building trust, and how friends can offer help without making a parent feel like a burden. We also get honest about the mental load that comes with autism parenting, from therapy decisions and packed schedules to the constant pressure to make the “right” choices for your child. Plus, we discuss trusting your gut, finding consistency without burning everyone out, and remembering that parents deserve care too. Because supporting your child matters—but so does supporting yourself. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today Brittney and Tash welcome Sara Intonato, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and a mother of two. Sara shares her unique parenting journey, focusing on her experiences with her non-speaking son, Rocco, and the importance of self-care for parents. The conversation delves into the significance of community support, the impact of yoga on mental health, and the discovery of spelling as a communication method for non-speakers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

No interviews. No heavy topics. Just moms sharing the funny, chaotic, and surprisingly relatable moments that come with raising autistic kids. From food battles to sensory adventures and everything in between, this episode is full of laughs, real-life parenting stories, and the reminder that you're never alone in this journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, Tash is joined by special needs mom and advocate Julie Hillyard for a heartfelt conversation about parenting, perspective, and finding joy in the hard. Julie shares her family's journey raising a son with autism and Phelan-McDermid syndrome, along with the lessons she's learned about advocacy, comparison, kindness, and giving both yourself and others a little more grace. Whether you're navigating school challenges, public misunderstandings, or just a difficult season of parenting, this episode is packed with encouragement and hope. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever felt stuck asking "Why us?" In this episode, we're having an honest conversation about victim mentality, acceptance, and the mindset shifts that have helped us navigate autism parenting. We share personal stories, talk about finding joy in the middle of hard seasons, and discuss how taking back control of the things we can control can change everything. It's real, it's relatable, and it's a conversation every autism parent needs to hear. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Understanding autism isn't a one-size-fits-all journey. While many are exploring the spectrum, it's crucial to recognize that every child is unique. Rebecca Fontanetta, a neuropsychologist and a mom navigating the world of neurodivergence, shares her insights on the importance of individualized care. From her early experiences working with children with autism to her evolving views on interventions, her story emphasizes the need for tailored approaches in supporting families. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we’re getting real about boundaries (the kind we know we need but don’t always set ). We talk through our own experiences with grief, support, and how community has shifted—from in-person friendships to more online connections. We also dive into balancing advocacy, friendships, and actually having time for ourselves. Friendships look different in every season, and finding your people—whatever that looks like—matters more than ever. Consider this your reminder that taking care of yourself isn’t optional. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Jean and Tash sit down with Juliana and Kelly from the Refrigerator Moms to talk about the messy, funny, emotional reality of parenting neurodivergent kids. From waiting room friendships and unsolicited advice to autism stigma, self-care, and finding your people in real life (not just on Instagram), this conversation is full of honesty, humor, and the kind of support only other autism moms truly get. Refrigerator Moms Podcast Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we’re talking about autism “levels” — what they mean, what they miss, and why autism is anything but one-size-fits-all. We share our own experiences with diagnoses, support needs, and how every autistic child can look completely different. We also talk about moving beyond the deficit-focused view of autism, recognizing strengths alongside challenges, and why community and understanding matter so much in this journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Parenting can be a rewarding journey, but when it involves neurodivergent teens, it brings a unique set of challenges and triumphs. In this post, we dive into the insights shared by Jessica Shaw, a seasoned journalist and host of the podcast "Everyone Gets a Juice Box," who offers a fresh perspective on navigating this complex landscape. From understanding the nuances of raising children who think differently to finding community support, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Everybody Gets a Juice Box podcast Understood.org Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we’re diving into the very overwhelming world of autism therapies and treatments—because why are there 500 options and zero clear answers? We talk about how we figure out what actually makes sense for our kids (not just what everyone on the internet says we “should” be doing), why every child’s needs are different, and how our family dynamics play a bigger role than people realize. We also get into the pressure we feel after diagnosis, what advocacy actually looks like in real life, and how we choose therapies that align with our family values—not just what looks good on paper. We break down helpful frameworks like the readiness model and the PACT approach to make all of this feel a little less like throwing darts in the dark. And as always, we share our real-life experiences—the wins, the struggles, and everything in between. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we share the highs and lows of family time, including navigating divorce, shifting family dynamics, and the constant juggle of support, patience, and flexibility. We also swap ideas for creating inclusive, meaningful celebrations—like a movie theater birthday that actually works for everyone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we are joined once again by Jonathan Alderson for a thoughtful and honest conversation about one of the biggest topics in the autism world: acceptance vs. treatment. We talk about why those ideas don’t have to be opposites, how parents often know their children best, and why support should never be one-size-fits-all. Jonathan shares his approach to helping families by combining different therapies based on each child’s unique needs. We also discuss the emotional side of parenting, the pressure families can feel from schools and professionals, and how true acceptance can create space for growth, connection, and change. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we’re answering some of your real-life parenting questions—from “When did your child start talking?” to how we actually handle sickness in our homes (because it’s never simple over here). We share what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the little adjustments we’ve had to make along the way when it comes to communication and caring for our kids when they’re not feeling their best. We also open up about navigating diagnosis grief—what it looked like for each of us and how we’ve moved through it over time. And because we have to laugh to survive… we wrap things up with the one thing we will absolutely NEVER do again. It’s honest, relatable, and full of those “same” moments. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.