Not Your Mama's Autism (NYMA): Recent Episodes
Lola Dada-Olley
NYMA is the story of one family's experiences with autism through a multi-generational lens. Hosted by a woman who is both the older sibling to a non-verbal man living with autism and now the mother of two children on the autism spectrum, NYMA takes on topics like autism awareness now compared to thirty years ago, past and current treatments, allies, special education pre-Covid-19 and during Covid-19, disability rights broken down by zip code, marriage therapy along the autism journey, intersectionality of race and disability, corporate inclusion efforts and much more.
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This episode dives into a powerful discussion on how redefining success, embracing wholeness, and recognizing one's own lane can transform life trajectories. Lola Dada-Olley explores these themes through stories of cultural conditioning, resilience, and intentional living, offering practical insights for anyone navigating personal or professional reinvention.
Main insights include:
- The importance of recognizing the lane you're currently in, especially when life takes unexpected turns
- How to redefine success beyond societal and cultural expectations
- Reimagining what it truly means to thrive—centered around peace, authenticity, and self-awareness
- The impact of cultural conditioning on women’s roles, expectations, and personal identity
- Navigating career shifts and strategic sacrifices in pursuit of deeper fulfillment
- The significance of healing from trauma and inner work to live more intentionally
- The value of deliberate choices and breaking generational curses to shape a new legacy
- How authenticity and emotional intelligence are critical leadership qualities, once undervalued
Timestamps:
00:00 - Welcome and overview: Embracing wholeness beyond early conditioning
02:25 - The three R's: Recognizing, redefining, reimagining success
03:24 - Personal storytelling: Navigating cultural expectations and self-awareness
04:50 - From childhood dreams to career shifts: The journey of recognizing new lanes
08:00 - Self-awareness as a spiritual practice and continuous journey
10:15 - Overcoming cultural pressures in marriage, motherhood, and personal choices
13:00 - Redefining success: Living intentionally and authentically
17:15 - The role of mentorship, representation, and community support
20:00 - Breaking stereotypes: Women of color in leadership and engineering
30:22 - The impact of cultural shame and the power of vulnerability
35:40 - Unpacking trauma, grief, and the importance of mental health support
43:10 - The significance of sacrifice, courage, and deliberate living
49:10 - Embracing authenticity: Unapologetic expression and self-love
53:40 - Living into your purpose: The importance of spiritual connection and intentionality
62:09 - The legacy of wholeness: Living fully and leaving an impact
Resources & Links:
- Book: Unapologetically Whole by Lola Dada-Olley
- Lola Dada-Olley - Website
- Understanding Trauma & Healing - MBCT
- Autism Advocacy & Resources - Autistic Self Advocacy Network
- Cultural Conditioning & Women’s Leadership - Journal of Cultural Psychology
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In this episode of Unapologetically Whole, Lola Dada-Olley shares her journey of storytelling and the profound impact it has on both the storyteller and the audience. She emphasizes the importance of honesty in sharing personal experiences and how these stories can resonate with others, creating a sense of community and understanding. Lola reflects on the roles of caregiving and leadership, highlighting that they are intertwined with the act of sharing one's truth. She encourages listeners to embrace their own stories, reminding them that their experiences are valuable and can inspire others.
Takeaways
- Your story matters, your voice matters.
- A story becomes a movement when it gives permission to others.
- People are hungry for raw, unfiltered honesty.
- Caregiving is a form of leadership.
- Wholeness is a daily practice of choosing yourself.
- Lived experiences are valuable expertise.
- The work of becoming whole is communal and generational.
- Sharing your story can help others feel seen.
- Purpose often emerges from uncertainty.
- Your lived experience is a force, not a footnote.
Lola's debut book, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story, is out now! Purchase on Amazon.com or at ItascaBooks.com.
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In this episode of the Unapologetically Whole podcast, host Lola Dada-Olley welcomes designer Dhee Sylvester to discuss the intricate process behind creating a book cover. Dhee shares his artistic journey, revealing how his background as a writer and poet informs his design philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in design, explaining how he seeks emotional and visual cues from the text to create covers that resonate deeply with the narrative. The conversation delves into the challenges of designing for memoirs, particularly those that tackle sensitive subjects like caregiving and identity. Dhee highlights the need for empathy and understanding in his work, ensuring that the cover reflects the author's intentions and the essence of the story.
Takeaways
- Design is a visual extension of storytelling.
- Empathy must come before aesthetics in design.
- Minimalism conveys more than just simplicity; it holds deeper meanings.
- The fragmented butterfly symbolizes transformation and becoming whole.
- Designing for memoirs requires sensitivity to the author's lived experiences.
Sound Bites
"I've always been a storyteller at heart."
"Empathy has to come before aesthetics."
"I hope they see the possible."
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Lola Dada-Olley's heartfelt reflection on embracing wholeness, integrating multiple identities, and living authentically. She shares her journey through trauma, resilience, and the power of storytelling to inspire others to step into their full selves.
Key Topics
- The importance of integrating different aspects of identity
- The role of storytelling in healing and empowerment
- Overcoming trauma and embracing resilience
Takeaways
- Wholeness is a daily decision, not a destination.
- Compartmentalization can be a protective mechanism but may hinder growth.
- Sharing your story can be a powerful act of healing and validation.
- Living authentically requires courage to show all parts of yourself.
- Resilience is built through embracing both joy and grief.
Sound Bites
"Your story voice you are allowed to be apology."
"Wholeness is not a destination. It is a decision."
"You are allowed to expand and become."
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In this episode of Unapologetically Whole, host Lola Dada-Olley engages in a heartfelt conversation with Victoria Petelin, the creative director of Wise Ink Media. Wise Ink is the publisher of Lola's upcoming book. Lola and Victoria discuss the journey of writing and publishing a memoir, the complexities of the publishing industry, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Victoria shares insights into the hybrid publishing model and the creative process behind memoir writing, emphasizing the significance of personal narratives and the transformations that occur during the writing journey. The episode also touches on the design of the book cover and the importance of accessibility for readers.
Lola's book, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story will be available on Amazon.com and ItascaBooks.com on May, 12, 2026! Be on the lookout for updates at loladadaolley.com/book.
Takeaways
- Your story matters, and you are allowed to be whole without apology.
- Publishing is a spectrum, with traditional, independent, and hybrid options.
- Hybrid publishing offers a balance of creative control and professional support.
- The writing process can be therapeutic and transformative.
- Authenticity in storytelling resonates more with readers than broad generalizations.
- The design of a book cover can reflect the author's journey and message.
- Accessibility in publishing is crucial for reaching diverse audiences.
- The journey of writing a memoir often reveals deeper truths about oneself.
- Success is subjective and should be defined on one's own terms.
- Community and hope are essential in navigating life's challenges.
Sounds Bites
"Your story matters, your voice matters."
"It's almost like being a therapist."
"It's a jungle out there."
"It's a form of therapy."
"I love it, I love it every time I see it."
"What does success look like in this moment?"
"The process is needed."
"We gotta give each other hope."
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Most caregivers lead quietly, often unseen, but their daily acts of purpose shape future generations. On this episode of Unapologetically Whole, Lola Dada-Olley reveals the profound leadership hidden within everyday caregiving and how purpose over perfection is the true mark of a whole family. Lola shares her own journey navigating systemic obstacles for her children with autism, illustrating how advocacy is not just a skill, but a form of leadership that transforms lives.
You’ll discover how purpose sustains us through the most challenging moments, from early therapy hours that drained resources to redefining success as access, dignity, and belonging. Three powerful messages emerge: the leadership of presence in difficult conversations, the importance of purpose-driven resilience, and how small daily acts can build systemic change. Lola emphasizes that caregivers are not just holding families together, they are architects of systems that didn't exist before, leading with quiet strength and intention.
Why does this matter? Because in a world that often overlooks the power of caregiving, understanding the leadership within your daily efforts unlocks profound opportunities. A caregiver's role isn’t just pivotal, it’s revolutionary. If you’ve ever questioned whether your contributions matter, this episode will empower you to see your work as leadership that shapes future generations.
Perfect for anyone navigating caregiving, leadership, or systemic change or those seeking to understand the unheralded work of building wholeness in every act of care. Tune in to see how purpose, not perfection, makes a family whole and how your own daily leadership can create ripple effects beyond what you imagine.
Lola Dada-Olley is an attorney, advocate, and storyteller dedicated to illuminating the quiet strength of caregivers and systemic leaders. Her work champions dignity and belonging for families navigating disability, advocacy, and societal systems. If you’re ready to see caregiving as leadership and your purpose as a powerful force for change, this episode could inspire your next move. Your story matters. Your purpose matters. And the leadership you practice every day is transforming the future, one act at a time.
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In this engaging conversation, Lola Dada-Olley speaks with Michael and Julie Thomas, co-founders of ConnectIDD, a disability empowerment agency. They discuss their journey as a married couple, the challenges faced in the nonprofit sector, and the importance of community support in advocating for individuals with disabilities. The Thomases share insights on transitioning from nonprofit leadership to entrepreneurship while raising children, navigating uncertainty in the disability space, and the significance of joy and resilience in their work. They also touch on their family mission statement and future goals for both their family and ConnectIDD.
Takeaways
- ConnectIDD is a disability empowerment agency changing lives.
- Michael and Julie's journey began during a snowstorm in 2011.
- They emphasize the importance of community support for families with disabilities.
- The nonprofit sector faces significant challenges, including funding issues.
- Vulnerability is essential in the disability advocacy space.
- Joy is a form of resistance against societal challenges.
- Building strong networks is crucial for navigating uncertainty.
- Transitioning from nonprofit leadership to entrepreneurship can be rewarding.
- Their family mission statement is 'do good, be good, have fun.
- They aim to expand ConnectIDD's reach across the U.S. and beyond.
Sound Bites
"It's okay to be vulnerable."
"We have people who deserve better."
"We are ready to be in every state."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Team Thomas and Their Mission
02:01 The Journey of Michael and Julie Thomas
05:53 Understanding Connect ID's Unique Approach
11:00 Challenges in the Disability Nonprofit Sector
20:16 Finding Purpose in Disability Advocacy
28:39 The Decision to Move On
31:21 Finding a New Home
33:03 The Call of Nature
35:52 Navigating Neurodiversity
37:50 Growth Amidst Uncertainty
43:00 Staying Nimble in Parenting and Business
48:11 The Thomas Family Mission Statement
51:29 Goals for 2026
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In this conversation, Lola Dada-Olley shares her personal journey of navigating the complexities of caregiving, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness. She reflects on the challenges faced as a caregiver, the impact of trauma on her life, and the importance of embracing vulnerability and compassion. Lola emphasizes that healing is a continuous process and encourages listeners to redefine their understanding of success and leadership in a way that honors their experiences and promotes a sense of safety and connection.
Takeaways
- There is a moment in every caregiver's life when your body tells the truth before your mouth ever does.
- Trauma doesn't always arrive with sirens; it can show up as irritability or autopilot.
- Fear can convince you that survival is the same thing as living.
- Trauma-informed living is for mothers, caregivers, and anyone who has carried more than their fair share.
- Honor the impact of trauma with compassion, not shame.
- Redefine success as presence and connection, not perfection.
- Your children's healing is connected to your own.
- Trauma-informed leadership is about humanity, not titles.
- You're allowed to build a life that feels safe in your own body.
- Wholeness is a daily choice and a quiet revolution.
Sound bites
"Trauma is sneaky like that."
"Fear is a terrible leader."
"You're worthy of that revolution."
Chapters
00:00 The Weight of Caregiving and Trauma
01:57 Understanding Trauma-Informed Living
04:00 Redefining Success and Leadership
05:37 Embracing Wholeness and Healing
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In this powerful episode, Lola Dada-Olley speaks with Neresia Osborne, therapist, mother, advocate and lifetime caregiver. This episode only scratches the surface in unlockingthe depth of her personal account of navigating birth trauma, systemic racism, and rediscovery. This episode offers clear insights into how one could possibly recognize their own lane, redefine success on their own terms, and build resilience through authentic self-awareness. Because parts of her journey deal with detailed personal recollections of trauma, discretion is advised.
Key topics:
- The impact of birth trauma and systemic racism on Black women’s health and mental well-being
- Learning to recognize and embrace one’s lane amidst societal expectations
- The role of hope multipliers and community support in healing and reimagining life
- How existentialism illuminates the path to self-awareness and wholeness
- Practical strategies for boundaries, self-care, and creating sacred spaces for Black families
- The importance of visibility and authentic storytelling in dismantling systemic barriers
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction: The importance of understanding systemic barriers and personal wholeness
02:20 - Recognizing your lane: From trauma to self-awareness
04:45 - Birth trauma and systemic neglect: A personal account
08:24 - The role of systemic racism in healthcare experiences
11:18 - The physical and emotional aftermath of traumatic birth
16:32 - Connecting systemic issues with cultural stigma and expectations
19:02 - Recognizing the need for self-care and redefinition of success
24:22 - Building a supportive environment through education and community support
27:30 - The influence of hope multipliers and authentic space-making
33:43 - Reintegrating systemic work and personal healing through therapy and advocacy
42:35 - How existentialism helps to see the fullness of oneself
44:12 - Owning your story: The power of visibility and authenticity
50:02 - The long journey: Deconstruction, deprogramming, and sitting in the process
53:09 - Establishing boundaries as a pathway to reimagining thriving
55:19 - The foundation of a trauma-informed therapy and coaching practice
60:49 - The significance of sacred spaces and working from the 'open heart'
66:35 - Legacy, impact, and the importance of nurturing future generations
66:44 - Final lesson: Believe in your worth and own your truth
Resources & Links:
- Neresia Osborne - LinkedIn
- The Open Heart Model (concept overview)
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In this episode of Unapologetically Whole, Lola Dada-Olley shares her personal journey of self-advocacy and wholeness, exploring themes of identity, caregiving, and resilience. Through intimate reflections and powerful storytelling, she encourages listeners to own their stories and advocate for themselves with intention and courage.
Takeaways:
- Your story matters and deserves to be told.
- Self-advocacy is a muscle that grows with use.
- Wholeness is the integration of all parts of your story.
- Perfection is not the goal; wholeness is.
- Guilt can be a barrier to healing.
- Healing begins when you stop negotiating with guilt.
- Self-advocacy starts with small steps like asking for help.
- You are worthy of the life you are building.
- The world needs you whole, not perfect.
- Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth.
Sound bites:
- Your story matters.
- Self-advocacy is a muscle.
- Wholeness is integration.
- Perfection was never the assignment.
- Guilt is a barrier.
- Healing begins with acceptance.
- Ask for help.
- You are worthy.
- The world needs you whole.
- Embrace your journey.
Chapters:
- Introduction to Unapologetically Whole
- The Journey of Self-Advocacy
- Embracing Wholeness
- Overcoming Guilt and Healing
- Empowerment and Personal Growth
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Summary
In this conversation, Lisa Hurley and Lola Dada-Olley explore the complexities of healing, emphasizing that it is a non-linear journey filled with ups and downs. They discuss the importance of embracing stillness and practicing gratitude as essential components of emotional well-being.
Takeaways
- Healing is definitely not linear.
- Sometimes healing can feel like it's going up and down.
- Periods of stillness are important in the healing process.
- Trusting stillness is crucial to avoid anxiety about the future.
- Introspection plays a vital role in personal growth.
- Expressing gratitude can enhance emotional well-being.
- There is always something to be grateful for, even in tough times.
- Healing requires patience and self-compassion.
- The journey of healing is unique for everyone.
- Embracing the journey can lead to deeper understanding.
Unapologetically Whole is a podcast for people who have spent years giving themselves away—to caregiving, culture, or career—and are finally ready to reclaim their voice. Hosted by attorney, author, TEDx speaker, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada‑Olley, the show explores identity, healing, neurodiversity, cultural stigma, and the quiet work of rebuilding yourself after burnout.
Lola draws from her lived experience as an attorney, a mother of two autistic children, the older sister of an autistic, intellectually disabled adult, and the former host of Not Your Mama’s Autism. She also serves as Lead ADA Counsel for a global banking institution and appears with her family in the Vox Media documentary Sensory Overload on Hulu.
Each episode blends storytelling, reflection, and honest conversation to help caregivers and other leaders recognize the lane they’re in, redefine success on their own terms, and reimagine what it means to thrive without disappearing.
Learn more about Lola’s work and her upcoming memoir at loladadaolley.com, and join the newsletter to stay connected to the movement.
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Not Your Mama’s Autism had its finale episode in December 2025. Unapologetically Whole is the dawn of a new podcast, guided by the same host, Lola Dada‑Olley, but shaped by a deeper, more expansive mission. After five years of honest conversations about disability, culture, and family, Lola is stepping into a new season, one that honors where she’s been while widening the lens to include every woman who has ever disappeared in service to others.
This trailer marks the bridge between two eras: the close of a beloved community built around autism storytelling, and the beginning of a movement centered on identity, healing, and wholeness. Lola brings with her the same lived experience—attorney, author, TEDx speaker, lifelong caregiver, mother of two autistic children, and older sister to an autistic, intellectually disabled adult, but now she’s inviting listeners into a broader conversation about what it means to reclaim yourself after years of giving yourself away.
Unapologetically Whole explores the quiet, courageous work of rebuilding your sense of self while still showing up for the people you love. Through storytelling, reflection, and deeply human conversations, Lola offers a space for women navigating caregiving, cultural expectations, career reinvention, and the emotional weight of being everything to everyone. It’s a podcast about choosing yourself without abandoning your responsibilities and learning that devotion does not require disappearance.
As this new chapter begins, the heart of Not Your Mama’s Autism lives on, expanded and reimagined. If you’ve ever felt unseen, stretched thin, or unsure where you end and your roles begin, this next season is for you. Welcome to Unapologetically Whole—a home for women ready to reclaim their voice, redefine success, and reimagine what it means to thrive.
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Summary
This conversation explores the complexities of neurodiversity, particularly autism, within the Caribbean context. Lisa Hurley reflects on her personal experiences growing up in a society that lacks awareness and understanding of neurodivergence. She discusses the cultural perceptions of autism, the challenges faced by individuals who do not fit the stereotypical image of autism, and the need for greater visibility and acceptance.
Takeaways
- Cultural perceptions shape the understanding of autism.
- There is a lack of awareness about neurodiversity.
- Expectations of presentation can exclude many individuals.
- Visibility is crucial for acceptance of neurodiversity.
- Challenging stereotypes is necessary for broader understanding.
- Personal experiences highlight systemic issues in society.
Sound Bites
"I've known from childhood that I was different."
"We're not talking about neurodivergence."
"People who look like us are not even considered."
Where to find Lisa Hurley: The Great Exhale
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In this heartfelt episode, Lola Dada-Olley and Tosan Olley reflect on their journey through autism advocacy, sharing insights from their experiences over the past five years. They discuss the universality of autism, the power of storytelling, and the importance of embracing wholeness while breaking generational cycles. The conversation highlights the intersections of race, disability, and neurodivergence, and sets the stage for their transition to a new podcast identity, 'Unapologetically Whole.'
Takeaways
- The podcast has been a platform for sharing our family's journey with autism.
- The universality of autism transcends geography and culture.
- Sharing our story has allowed others to feel seen and understood.
- The richness of humanity is reflected in the diverse stories shared on the podcast.
- Embracing wholeness means acknowledging both joy and pain in our lives.
- Breaking generational cycles is essential for healing and growth.
- The intersection of race and disability shapes unique experiences.
- The transition to 'Unapologetically Whole' signifies a new chapter in advocacy.
- Gratitude for the community that has supported our journey.
- The evolution of our understanding of success and thriving.
Chapters
00:00 Reflecting on a Journey of Autism Advocacy
03:05 The Universality of Autism and Its Impact
06:03 The Power of Sharing Stories
08:56 Embracing Wholeness and Breaking Generational Cycles
11:54 The Intersection of Race, Disability, and Neurodivergence
14:58 Transitioning to Unapologetically Whole
18:00 Gratitude and Looking Forward
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SUMMARYIn this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, hosts Lola and Tosan Olley discuss the various transitions their family is experiencing, including changes in their children's education, their own career roles, and the impact of policy changes on caregiving. They reflect on the importance of community support, self-care, and the lessons learned from navigating these transitions. The conversation also touches on their shift from audio storytelling to a visual medium, emphasizing the power of sharing their journey to foster understanding and connection.Takeaways* Transitions are a recurring theme in family life. * Policy changes can significantly impact caregiving responsibilities. * Community support is essential during transitions. * Self-care is crucial for managing stress and responsibilities. * Laughter can be a powerful tool for coping. * It's important to give yourself grace during difficult times. * Time is finite; prioritize what truly matters. * Creative outlets can help reconnect with oneself. * Navigating transitions requires flexibility and adaptability. * Lessons learned from past experiences can guide future decisions. Support the show
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In this episode, we discuss Sensory Overload, a film about how three communitiesnavigate oral care and the world in general with sensory sensitivities in mind.It's also a film about neurodivergence, sensory differences, and how the worldcan be better designed to accommodate people. It's a Vox Media produced film in partnership withHaleon and Sensodyne as part of Sensodyne's Sensory Inclusion Initiative, amission to build better sensory inclusion in oral care. This episode features Executive Producer Samantha Knowles, Director and Head of Content at Vox Creative Kiana Moore, and Producer Dylan Lenze. They all discuss their journey into storytelling, the filmmaking process, and the importance of representing neurodivergent communities. They share insights on the challenges and joys of documentary filmmaking, the emotional resonance of storytelling, and the significance of creating safe spaces for participants. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of diverse stories and the personal reflections of the filmmakers on their own neurodivergent experiences.The documentary is currently streaming on Hulu. Takeaways* The documentary 'Sensory Overload' focuses on sensory sensitivities in oral care. * Filmmakers share their personal journeys into storytelling. * Documentary filmmaking involves preparation but requires adaptability. * Creating a safe filming environment is crucial for participants. * Editing is an iterative process that emphasizes emotional resonance. * Diverse stories can connect through shared experiences of neurodivergence. * Personal reflections on neurodivergence enrich the storytelling process. * Knowing when to let go of a project is part of the creative process. * The film aims to spark positive conversations about neurodivergence. * Storytelling has the power to make individuals feel seen and heard. Support the show
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SummaryIn this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism, host Lola Dada-Olley speaks with licensed social worker and BCBA Larissa Heise about the complexities of challenging behavior in neurodivergent individuals. They discuss the definition of challenging behavior, trends observed in recent years, the importance of identifying triggers, and the role of sensory needs. Larissa emphasizes the need for individualized approaches to support, the common misconceptions surrounding challenging behavior, and the importance of understanding the full context before implementing interventions. The conversation also covers strategies for navigating support systems and the significance of insurance in accessing professional help.Takeaways Challenging behavior varies in definition and context. * Challenging behavior often exceeds a family's ability to support. * Safety concerns are a primary focus in identifying challenging behavior. * Attention-seeking behavior is often misunderstood; it is about connection. * Sensory needs can become more complex as individuals grow older. * Understanding individual needs is crucial for effective support. * Misconceptions about challenging behavior can lead to ineffective interventions. * Gradual approaches are necessary for managing triggers and interventions. * Reassessing strategies is important when previous methods stop working. * Navigating insurance and support systems is essential for accessing help. Chapters00:00 Understanding Challenging Behavior02:59 Trends in Challenging Behavior06:06 Identifying Triggers09:06 Complex Sensory Needs12:00 Misconceptions About Challenging Behavior15:05 Approaching Triggers and Interventions19:04 Reassessing Strategies24:03 Navigating Support Systems35:55 Getting Started with Professional HelpTranscript* Lola Dada-Olley (00:02.364)Larissa Heise, thank you. Thank you for being on the Not Your Mama's Autism podcast today.Larissa Heise (00:10.317)Thank you for having me.Lola Dada-Olley (00:13.148)So you are a licensed social worker. You are also a BCBA for those listening who don't understand what that acronym means. In these neurodivergent streets, it means board certified behavioral analyst.I am going to really enjoy this episode talking to you about behavior. So let's talk about challenging behavior. But before we do so, let's do some level setting. Because challenging behavior means different things to different people. So what would you identify as a challenging behavior?Larissa Heise (00:57.485)I'm going to give you my personal definition and then I'm going to give you like what I think out in the world people are like generally having consensus on. Given the work that I do, I work a lot with family, families and very, a very parent centered model of support in the work that we do and some of the programs I supervise, very unique programs actually compared to maybe some other providers who are very family centric kind of approach to treatment.I look at challenging behavior as being something that exceeds the family's ability to support. And that can mean different things for different people. I've had some families who are dealing with the more traditional definition of challenging behavior, which I'm going to share, but I've had other families who, you know, maybe it's not at a level of safety, but they are so overwhelmed. They still don't know what to do. And it's leading toSupport the show
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SummaryDr. Theresa Haskins, a professor, researcher, consultant, corporate executive, mom, wife, and advocate, joins the podcast. She shares her journey as an advocate for her children and a self-advocate. Dr. Haskins discusses the diagnosis process for her children and the challenges they faced. She also talks about her experience studying educational psychology and getting her PhD in education. She emphasizes the importance of choice and autonomy in education and the need for inclusive and differentiated learning approaches. Neuroinclusion means creating environments that respect and accept differences in how individuals engage, communicate, and interact with each other. It involves allowing multiple realities and ways of being to coexist without judgment or the need to change others. To achieve neuroinclusion, it is important to start young by building cultures of inclusion in schools and teaching children to respect and value diversity. Additionally, workplaces should prioritize neuroinclusion by creating equitable opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and allowing all employees to be their authentic selves. Neuroinclusion benefits everyone by fostering authenticity and creating a more accepting and inclusive society.Keywordsadvocate, diagnosis, children, educational psychology, PhD, choice, autonomy, inclusive education, differentiated learning, neuroinclusion, differences, respect, acceptance, diversity, inclusion, communication, engagement, authenticity, workplace, educationTakeawaysDr. Theresa Haskins is an advocate for her children and a self-advocate.She shares her experience with the diagnosis process for her children and the challenges they faced.Studying educational psychology and getting her PhD in education taught her the importance of choice and autonomy in education.Dr. Haskins emphasizes the need for inclusive and differentiated learning approaches. Neuroinclusion means respecting and accepting differences in how individuals engage, communicate, and interact with each other.Starting young by building cultures of inclusion in schools is crucial for promoting neuroinclusion.Workplaces should prioritize neuroinclusion by creating equitable opportunities and allowing all employees to be their authentic selves.Neuroinclusion benefits everyone by fostering authenticity and creating a more accepting and inclusive society.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background04:16 Discovering Giftedness08:04 The Importance of Choice and Autonomy in Education27:36 The Impact of Psychological Safety on Autistic Inclusion32:20 Increasing Empathy for More Inclusive Classrooms and Workplaces36:25 Corporations vs. Classrooms: The Inclusiveness Divide41:29 The Human Nature of Dividing and the Need for Neuroinclusion43:31 Defining Neuroinclusion: Acceptance and Respect for Differences45:18 Unconscious Bias and the Importance of Neuroinclusion47:58 Neuroinclusion in the Workplace: Authenticity and Equitable OpportunitiesTRANSCRIPTLola (00:02)Hello, welcome. Welcome to the Not Your Mama's Autism podcast. I'm Lola Dada -Olley On the podcast today, we have within our midst, Dr. Theresa Haskins, a woman who wears many, many, many hats. Professor, researcher, consultant, corporate executive, mom, wife, advocate.Welcome. Welcome to the podcast today. Thank you.Theresa Haskins (00:35)Thanks for having me here. I think I'm in good comSupport the show
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SummaryBreanna Kelly, a licensed social worker and BCBA, shares her journey into the field of autism and her passion for supporting individuals with co-occurring conditions. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and acknowledging the experiences and needs of individuals with disabilities, as well as the significance of cultural competence in providing effective care. Breanna discusses the challenges within the medical system and the need for collaboration and holistic approaches to support individuals with autism and mental health needs. She also highlights the importance of caregiver training and empowerment. Overall, Breanna advocates for systemic changes and increased resources to improve the lives of individuals with autism and co-occurring conditions.TakeawaysUnderstanding and acknowledging the experiences and needs of individuals with disabilities is crucial in providing effective care.Cultural competence and relevance are important in supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds.The medical system needs reform to better support individuals with co-occurring conditions.Caregiver training and empowerment are essential in helping families navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.Collaboration and holistic approaches are needed to provide comprehensive care for individuals with autism and mental health needs.Increased resources and systemic changes are necessary to improve the lives of individuals with autism and co-occurring conditions.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background02:01 Personal Connection and Early Experiences08:49 Challenges within the Medical System12:02 Cultural Competence and Trauma-Informed Care19:00 Empowering Caregivers through Training23:33 Meeting Caregivers Where They Are30:16 Supporting Families and Building Relationships34:05 Reforming the Medical System41:38 Connecting with Others and Finding ResourcesTranscriptLola Dada-Olley (00:02)Brianna Kelly, thank you. Thank you so much for visiting us today on the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast.Breanna (00:11)Thank you for having me. I'm excited.Lola Dada-Olley (00:16)Me too, me too. I just know you're going to drop the nuggets. The nuggets shall have nuggets. So with that in mind, let's learn a little bit more about you. So you are a true multi -hyphenate. You are a licensed social worker. You're a BCBA. Those not familiar with the term, board certified behavior analyst, and the owner in your spare time of synergy behavioral consulting.Synergy behavioral consulting. But before we get to all these wonderful things, like what you're currently doing now, let's start, let's go back a little bit. Let's start from the beginning. What made you enter this field? Like, do you have a personal connection?Breanna (00:46)Yeah.So it goes back to the early 2000s. And so I was in high school and a freshman in high school actually, and I got invited over to this party that this Christian club was having at my school. And it was at an attached school, which I now know was an alternative school. And it had kids with severely profound, severe and profound disabilities, quote unquote behaviors. There werepregnant girls. at that time, this was scary to me because we would only see these individuals like in between classes. And I went over there aSupport the show
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SummaryIn this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, Lola Dada-Olley and her husband, Tosan Olley, discuss the complexities of navigating reproductive healthcare for their daughter, who is on the autism spectrum. They share their journey from recognizing the onset of puberty to preparing for their daughter's first period, emphasizing the importance of communication, family support, and collaboration with healthcare providers. The couple reflects on the emotional challenges and milestones they encountered, as well as the long-term considerations for their daughter's reproductive health.Takeaways Navigating reproductive healthcare is crucial for children with autism. * Communication about puberty can be challenging but necessary. * Dads play an important role in discussions about reproductive health. * Preparation for menstruation involves multiple therapy disciplines. * Understanding sensory challenges is key in healthcare planning. * Access to reproductive healthcare can significantly impact quality of life. * Long-term planning is essential for children with special needs. * Collaboration with healthcare providers is vital for effective care. * Celebrating milestones is important in the parenting journey. * Pre-decisioning helps in managing future healthcare needs. Chapters00:00 Navigating Reproductive Healthcare for Our Daughter02:51 Understanding Puberty and Its Implications11:10 Preparing for the First Period16:25 The Day It Happened20:14 Long-Term Considerations for Reproductive Health25:03 Celebrating Milestones and Future PlanningTranscriptLola Dada-Olley (00:01.395)Welcome, welcome everyone to the Not Your Mama's Autism podcast. I am back yet again with the hubster, the hubby, Tosan Olley. We are talking about a not so light topic about our daughter's reproductive healthcare and the decisions we are starting to make for her in hopes ofher living the highest quality of life possible. For those new to the podcast, we have an 11 -year -old daughter who's minimally verbal, on the autism spectrum, and intellectually disabled. So, this episode will walk through some traditionally seen as uncomfortable topics, things like periods, things like cramps.things like talking it through as a family for a child who has communication challenges. This is naturally a difficult conversation, whether or not your child can traditionally communicate or not. So, our daughter has a history of some sensory challenges associated with the way her autism manifests. So, once she turned 10,And we knew that that next phase was right around the corner. We had to really sit down and think about the type of options she would have, not only based on her autism, but quite frankly, based on her family history that we know of at least when it comes to reproductive health, our family on my side, at least part of my side of the family, we've had a history of fibroids, PCOS, difficult periods.how could that potentially look in a growing child who will one day become a young woman who may not be able to communicate things like pain in a traditional way. So, we are pulling back the covers on this so you all could see some of the conversations my husband and I have had, some of the conversations we've had with her healthcare providers and hopes.Lola Dada-Olley (02:24.707)th*Support the show
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In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, host Lola Dada-Olley speaks with Annette Addo-Yobo, the first immigrant-born Miss Texas, about her journey from Ghana to the U.S., her advocacy for autism awareness, and the importance of representation. Annette shares her personal experiences as a sibling caregiver, the cultural stigma surrounding autism, and her aspirations to influence policy and support families navigating the challenges of autism. The conversation highlights the need for better resources, early intervention, and community support for families affected by autism.Takeaways* Annette's journey from Ghana to becoming Miss Texas is inspiring. * Representation in media and pageantry is crucial for marginalized communities. * Cultural stigma around autism can hinder family support and understanding. * Advocacy is a lifelong commitment, often born from personal experiences. * The SPAR Project aims to bridge gaps in autism awareness and resources. * Parentification can significantly impact the identity of sibling caregivers. * Mental health support is essential for caregivers navigating their roles. * Early intervention can change the trajectory of a child's development. * Advocacy in Washington, D.C. can lead to meaningful policy changes. * Community support is vital for families affected by autism. Support the show
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In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, host Lola Dada-Olley engages her son Fela in a heartfelt discussion about the transition from middle school to high school. They explore the various high school options available, the importance of extracurricular activities like band, and the challenges that come with academic rigor. Fela shares his personal experiences and offers advice to other students facing similar transitions, emphasizing the importance of hard work and resilience. The conversation highlights the growth and development that comes with navigating educational choices and personal interests.Takeaways* Choosing high schools is a significant decision for students. * Middle school serves as a preparatory phase for high school. * Extracurricular activities play a crucial role in student life. * Students should consider their interests when selecting a high school. * Academic rigor is important, but students should not fear challenges. * Transitioning can be daunting, but support from family helps. * It's normal to have concerns about moving to high school. * Students should embrace hard work as part of their education. * Making new friends is a key aspect of transitioning to high school. * Reflecting on past experiences can provide valuable insights for future transitions. Support the show
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In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism podcast, LolaDada-Olley interviews Danielle Meadows, an executive director at JPMorganChase, about the importance of disability employment and the initiatives takenby the Business Solution Team (BEST) to promote neuro-inclusion. They discussthe evolution of the BEST program, common misconceptions about disabilityinclusion, the challenges faced in the employment landscape, and thesignificance of public policy in supporting individuals with disabilities. Theconversation highlights the success stories of employees and the role of jobcoaches in fostering an inclusive work environment.
Takeaways
- Disability Employment Awareness Month is crucial for promoting inclusion.
- The BEST program focuses on neuro-inclusion strategies globally.
- Misconceptions about disability often hinder employment opportunities.
- Transportation remains a significant barrier for individuals with disabilities.
- Public policy needs to adapt to support working individuals with disabilities.
- Job coaching is essential for success in the workplace.
- Collaboration among organizations enhances disability employment efforts.
- Recognition from institutions like the UN validates the program's success.
- Success stories demonstrate the potential of individuals with disabilities.
- The program has grown significantly since its inception in 2019.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Disability Employment Awareness Month
05:11 Misconceptions About Disability Inclusion
09:29 Recognition and Growth of the BEST Program
12:33 Challenges in Disability Employment
17:26 The Importance of Public Policy
21:46 The Role of Job Coaches
26:54 Success Stories and Business Outcomes
In this episode, Lola Dada-Olley and her husband Tosan discuss their journey with their daughter Alero, who is on the autism spectrum.They share their decision-making process regarding Alero's education, includingthe challenges of navigating special education services, the impact of thepandemic, and the importance of adaptability in parenting. They reflect ontheir choice to temporarily withdraw Alero from school for therapy and thesubsequent decision to reintegrate her into a supportive school environment.The couple emphasizes the significance of building a supportive community andlearning from others' experiences in similar situations.
In this episode, Dr. Kim Floyd, a professor of special education and an innovator, discusses her evolution in the education space and her role in standing up a center focused on assistive technology with people with disabilities. She shares her journey into special education, the development of a multidisciplinary approach, and the importance of trauma-informed practices in education.Dr. Floyd also highlights the unique challenges and strengths of rural communities in special education and the work of the American Council on Rural Special Education. She discusses the Center for Collaborative Assistive Technology Education Lab and the exciting projects coming out of the lab. Finally, she explores how assistive technology can level the playing field in education and therapy. The conversation explores the importance of assistive technology in education and the challenges faced in implementing it. It highlights the need for personalized and inclusive classrooms that cater to the diverse learning needs of students. The role of AI in leveling the playing field is discussed, acknowledging both the benefits and potential drawbacks. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of historical and cultural awareness in education and the need for teachers to be resilient, empathetic, and adaptable. The American Council of Rural Special Education (ACRES) is mentioned as a resource for further information.
Growing up alongside a sibling with autism can transform your life's blueprint in the most unexpected ways. in this episode, we're joined by the remarkable Nadia Hamilton, who shares the touching saga of her brother, Troy, and how his journey on the autism spectrum has awakened a legacy of empowerment and innovation. Nadia's candid recount of the joys and hurdles they faced together unfolds into the creation of a transformative tool - Magnus cards - that now aids individuals with autism and/or cognitive disabilities to navigate the complexities of daily life with greater independence. Our conversation is a celebration of sibling love and the spirit that can give rise to social entrepreneurship with a profound purpose.
As you tune in, you'll be captivated by stories that not only pull at the heartstrings, but also spotlight the monumental shifts in accessibility and inclusivity championed by visionaries like Nadia. Discover the compelling impact of the Magnus Mode app, designed to provide free, visual, step-by-step guides for those in the neurodiverse community, and learn how the Disability Experience training program is reshaping perspectives in corporate corridors. This isn't just an episode; it's a heartfelt tribute to Troy and others like him, who inspire a world that embraces every spectrum of human diversity with open arms and minds. Join us for an episode that weaves a narrative of hope, understanding, and the tangible change that comes from one sister's unwavering devotion.
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Every January, my husband Tosan and I brace ourselves for the impact of the 'January reset' on our family's finances. As parents of a child with complex medical needs, we're no strangers to the avalanche of medical bills that come with insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums starting anew. Our latest episode offers an intimate conversation where we peel back the curtain on the financial challenges that families like ours face, diving into the intricacies of insurance policies in Texas, and the relentless vigilance it takes to ensure our daughter's healthcare needs are met.
Join us for a heart-to-heart about the proactive financial strategies we've put in place, like leveraging Health Savings Accounts and planning for a multi-year safety net. As we exchange stories and strategies, Tosan and I reveal how we've navigated the stormy seas of healthcare costs and even seeking healthcare grants and exchanges when money was tight. We aim to empower and offer solace by sharing our journey, reinforcing the importance of resilience and the strength found in taking it one day at a time.
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Our 2023 year in review episode is here. We discuss the ups and downs that is/was 2023, including a life changing family trip to Barcelona, an ice storm that prevented travel to our daughter's therapy, a short term caregiver crisis, the myth of work-life balance and so much more.
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In this episode, I speak with Addis Gonte, Non-Profit CEO and Disability Inclusion Advocate. We talk about how a car accident changed his life, resulting in traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. We also speak on how his life changing accident led him on a new path to founding a non-profit, called Able Mindset, and many lessons learned along the way.
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In this episode, my husband, Tosan, and I have a conversation about the transition we've made and are making into the start of adolescence. Our kids, a boy and a girl, are now both pre-teens and our daughter has an intellectual disability. We talk about the special considerations we have to think through and make as we raise neurodivergent children who are undergoing a new life phase. One day at a time.
This episode is also available in video form on YouTube.
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In this episode, we speak with Janelle Johnson, a licensed marriage and family therapist, Founder of Bridges Family Life Center, PLLC , Mom, Wife and Self-Advocate. We talk about her own autism self-diagnosis, how she became a therapist, her own philosophy on "masking", her decision to eventually self-ID, raising an autistic child and her views on so much more.
As always, we appreciate the support. If you like what you hear, please share, subscribe and give our podcast a 5 star rating on Apple Podcasts.
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In this episode, we speak with Dr. Tade Akere, a mother, wife, businesswoman turned psychologist and advocate. She is the mother of an adult autistic son and a neurodivergent and mental health advocate serving patients through her Illinois based practice. She is also the host of the webseries Dr. Tade Talks and the author of the book, No! Not My Son!: An African Mother's Journey Through Life with Autism.
In this episode, we walk through her family's autism journey, cultural stigma associated with a diagnosis within her Nigerian-American household, how she decided to enter the field of psychology after becoming a parent caregiver and the advice she gives others on the journey (along with some other nuggets).
I appreciated her candor and hope you get something out of this episode. This episode is also available in video on YouTube.
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In this episode, I speak with Tim Markle, the Southern Regional Center Director at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Waisman Center. We speak about delivery of health care to diverse populations, his own experience as a dad to an autistic son and how understanding the power of forgiveness has allowed him to become a better person, father, husband and advocate.
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In Season 6, Episode 2 of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, I speak with attorney, self-advocate and former law school classmate, LaNasha Houze. In this episode, LaNasha speaks to how she ended up obtaining her later in life ADHD diagnosis, the subsequent realizations she made when it comes to her neurodivergence and provides some advice to those who wish to know more about this journey.
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Welcome to Season 6 of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, now brought to you in both audio and video form. In addition to listening to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform, now you can view new episodes on You Tube.
After a long hiatus, we start our new season talking through our parenting journey through various seasons that includes/included: stay at home parenthood, demanding careers and various therapy schedules associated with our family's autism journey.
One day at a time.
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Our conversation on special education law continues with Tracey Spencer Walsh, podcast host, attorney and special education law expert. This part of our conversation focuses on things to consider as your child ages through and eventually out of special education.
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In this episode, I speak with Tracey Spencer Walsh, an attorney specializing in special education law and a podcast host of the podcast, "It's Special", a show focused on navigating disability within the education space.
In our conversation, Tracey and I speak on what special education is, the laws in space to safeguard it and some of the thing that parents should consider as they walk on this journey with their children. For more information on Tracey, check her out here.
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In this episode, we speak with Inarm Osborn, a passionate entrepreneur who is dedicated to improving the lives and job prospects of neurodivergent adults in need of his services. He is the Founder and CEO of Auti Quest, an innovative app that provides employment support for autistic adults. He is also Centra Co Support Services, a day center for adults with intellectual disabilities.
We dive into how he started working in this space, his transition from the finance world and how he believes technology can improve the job experience for autistic individuals.
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In this episode, I speak with Koko Ekeng, mom, parenting coach and author. She talks about how her daughter's complex medical needs started her on a journey to America in order for her to get the help she needed medically and, eventually academically as well.
She speaks to how her training as a life coach prepared her for a very difficult season
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In this episode, I speak with Dr. Jessica Taverniti, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, PHD in Psychology and Co-Founder of Nurolux, a platform that provides its members with actionable and customized tools that aids autistic people, their families and professionals that support them a better roadmap to improve overall quality of life.
I speak with Jessica about her background in psychology and helping families for nearly two decades that brought her where she is today, examples of how Nurolux technology uses data to customize the caregiver experience and so much more. For more information about all the great things Nurolux is doing, check out their website.
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In this episode, we speak with Andrew Arboe, Founder of Driving with Autism, an online program that helps autistic people how to drive. He talks about common challenges he sees in this space, some of the personal challenges he has faced as a self-advocate and how the types of programming he has available for people in need of these services.
For more information on Andrew's work, check out Driving on the Spectrum.
In this episode, I speak with Andrew Komarow, Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and Founder of Planning Across the Spectrum, a firm that specializes in financial planning for neurodivergent and disabled people and their families. We talk about his later in life autism diagnosis, what he thinks people get wrong about neurodivergence and some ways that his firm fills in the gap for services that this subset of families need.
For Season 5, Episode 3 of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, I speak with Danielle Feerst, Occupational Therapist and Founder of iElevate, a life and career coaching platform for neurodivergent teens and adults. We talk about the reason why a need for her services exists, challenges associated with this relatively new coaching space and how her background as an occupational therapist aids her in the current phase of her journey.
In addition to nuggets provided in this episode, for more information, please visit their website.
In this episode, we speak with pediatric occupational therapist, Micaela Wilson. Mickey, as she is better known by, walks us through how occupational therapy can help certain people, the difference between occupational therapy and physical therapy and the kinds of considerations people can make when deciding which therapist is right for them.
In addition to our podcast, please see the list of resources that Mickey recommends that parents should look at when better understanding this journey. As always, thank you for your support.
Some of Mickey's Recommended Resources
Websites:
STAR Institute for Sensory Processing
https://sensoryhealth.org/
▪ A research and therapy center for sensory processing
founded by Lucy Jane Miller, a pioneer in the field of
sensory processing. Miller studied under the woman that
first brought sensory processing into the Occupational
Therapy and Medical world, Jean Ayres.
▪ There are resources on the website to give you further
knowledge on sensory processing and webinars as well.
Social Media Accounts:
Not Your Mama's Autism
▪ Website: https://notyourmamasautism.com/
with links to all social media accounts and podcasts
Finding Cooper’s Voice
▪ Website: https://www.findingcoopersvoice.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingcoopersvoice
Autism Discussion Page
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/autismdiscussionpage
Led by Bill Nason, MS, LLP; Discusses ways and tools to
help children on the spectrum feel safe, accepted, and
competent.
▪ Also has written several books:
https://www.amazon.com/Autism-Discussion-Page-
challenges-autism/dp/1849059942
Thriving on the Spectrum
▪ Website: https://www.thrivingonthespectrum.com/
Neurodiversity: Resources for Families & Educators
https://www.facebook.com/Neurodiversity-Resources-for-
Families-Educators-109912502369117
Facebook page run by a mother, educator, and advocate
o The Neurodivergent Teacher
▪ Instagram: https://instagram.com/the_neurodivergent_teacher?igshid
=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Books:
- The Whole Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel, MD., & Tina Payne Bryson, PhD.
- Sensational Kids by Lucy Jane Miller, PhD., OTR
- No Longer a Secret by Lucy Jane Miller, PhD., OTR., Lisa M. Porter, PhD, OTD, OTR/L, and Doreit S. Bailer, OTD, MA, OTR
DISCLAIMER: The opinions and views expressed during this podcast and
on this resource sheet belong solely to Micaela Wilson, COTA/L. In no way
does this represent any other institutions or professionals mentioned.
These views and opinions are for informational purposes only. The
information and resources mentioned above do not and are not a
replacement for Occupational Therapy Services. If concerns or further
information is needed in regards to Occupational Therapy Services, it is
highly recommended to seek professional medical advice from your
primary care physician, pediatrician, or consult with an OT.
Welcome to the first episode of the new season, Season 5, Episode 1 where we speak to Amy Root. She is an autistic self-advocate, corporate executive, mom and wife. We talked about how her later in life autism diagnosis not only better helped her understand who she was, but helped her better parent her children (including two autistic children) and "re-parent" herself.
It is not every day that someone is vulnerable about their life journey. I had an enlightening discussion with Jennifer Msumba, award winning autistic filmmaker, musician and writer. In this episode Jennifer walks us through her self-advocacy journey, how she uses art to cope with feeling different and the time when she was forcibly institutionalized. Time and time again, she has chosen the light within times of darkness. She is resilience personified and I hope you get something out of this episode. To learn more about her projects, visit her website.
In this episode, I interview my son, a budding self-advocate in his own right, about the start of his transition into middle school and his recent discharge from physical therapy. He talks about how he is processing the end of therapy, the friends he made there and the types of things that run through his mind as he thinks of the start of middle school.
JP "J-Rock" Horsley is a black, autistic musician who currently lives in the UK. He is also a contributor to the book, Educational Psychology Perspectives on Supporting Young Autistic People: Insight from Experience, Practice and Research, which was published in April 2022.
We had a rich discussion about his music, how his neurodivergence contributes to his art, the stigma associated with receiving his later in life autism diagnosis, how he raises his sons and so much more. For more information about J-Rock, check out this article and/or follow him on Instagram.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a form of therapy commonly administered to children on the autism spectrum. According to Healthline media, ABA is a type of therapy that can improve social, communication, and learning skills through reinforcement strategies.
Many experts consider ABA to be the gold-standard treatment for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or other developmental conditions. It is also considered a controversial form of treatment by some actually autistic self-advocates. it is currently a treatment primarily utilized for children and early adolescents.
In this episode, ABA therapy is explored through a different lens, one that includes people later on in the lifecycle, adults. I speak with Jess Dahl, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) who focuses her practice on adults.
We explore her professional journey to where she is today, her own son's autism diagnosis, the controversy surrounding ABA, challenges she sees families and practitioners face in caring for adults on the spectrum who require significant medical and community supports and so much more.
In this episode, we speak to the filmmakers behind the documentary, "Unseen: How We're Failing Parent Caregivers and Why It Matters". We discuss the idea behind the documentary, why the decision was made to tell the story visually and what people hope they get out of the film.
For more information about this film, check it out here.
Friendships, like so many things in life, have to evolve to remain vital. This episode takes the listener through the story of three women who first met in their twenties as law school classmates at the Howard University School of Law, affectionately referred to as the HUSL. We would all get married, all stay in touch with one another and all become mothers, having yet another thing in common. Through the passage of time, we should share yet another commonality, we would all become mothers of children with neuro differences (autism, ADHD and sensory processing disorder to be exact). We talk about our winding journey through multiple angles: motherhood, self-advocacy, race, gender, career and culture.
It was a very real discussion amongst my friends and me (complete with children and puppies in the background). I am grateful to them for being so raw and so real. I hope that our conversation helps others who may be going through something similar. My friends, Faye McCray and Kamilah House, are the brainchildren behind the initiative "Dear Mama", a virtual event centered around Black womanhood, motherhood and maternity, which is referenced a couple of times in the episode. For more information on that amazing event, check it out here.
In this episode we start to explore the world of relationships through the eyes of Jeremy Hamburgh, trial attorney turned relationship coach for autistic adults. He is the founder of My Best Social Life, a service that aids autistic adults who need help forging more intimate friendships and romantic relationships.
Jeremy talks about how he applied traits he learned in the courtroom and converted them into dating strategies for his clients. He talks about the importance of taking attributes typically viewed as flawed and utilizing them as a way to present the best first impression you can to attract both friends and romantic partners alike. For more information about Jeremy, check out My Best Social Life.
In this week's episode, we tell the story of family travel through a multi-generational lens. What many take for granted, getting on a plane and having the opportunity to see life beyond your everyday, can prove challenging to some autistic people. My brother and children, all on the autism spectrum, were no exception.
This episode touches upon how an event that happened in the early 1990's in Paris, France, would affect the way decisions were made on where and how to travel decades later in the present day. We were fortunate enough to have experts in travel, hospitality and child development join us on our storytelling journey.
For more information on all-inclusive travel at Beaches Resorts, check out this link.
For more information on autism certified travel generally, check out Dina Farmer here.
January 2022 marks the one year anniversary of a conversation had with Ivie Okwuegbuna, a UK Educator with a focus on teaching children with disabilities and neurodifferences. When we first spoke, vaccines were just starting to be distributing in certain parts of the world. She spoke about considerations and risks educators took when determining how to teach in the midst of a pandemic that had the potential of disproportionately affecting the student population they serve.
Although one year old, we are still in the midst of the pandemic. So, I wanted to revisit this conversation to have on record one educator's take on teaching in this era during a pandemic. Hopefully, more conversations like this can aid us as a society in better equipping teachers in crisis.
Season 4 of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast begins with a great conversation had with Tonye Faloughi Ekezie, mom, wife, disability rights advocate, TV personality, author, writer, producer and podcast host of the newly launched Special Mums Africa Podcast. In this episode, she breaks down her personal story, how she found out she had a daughter with down syndrome and heart conditions, how she and her husband coped with the early days of her journey and how she has used her personal experiences to launch various fruitful business ventures that are great for the community. Check it out and let us know what you think! If you like what you hear, please leave a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts.
In this episode, we look back on 2021 NYMA Podcast episodes and discuss various lessons learned from them. We talk about past episodes that touch upon community policing, disability inclusion efforts in Corporate America, self-advocacy and more. This episode marks the start of our hiatus. We will return in January 2022 with brand new episodes. In the meantime, have a joyous and reflective holiday season.
In this episode, we speak to a mom-daughter duo by the names of Kendra and Maria, respectively. Kendra is the mother of two autistic children, a boy and a girl and a friend of the family. She and her family are referenced back in Season 1, Episode 6 in the episode titled, "It Takes a (Wisconsin) Village". Kendra and Maria, her then 12 year old daughter, talk about their family's autism journey. Maria talks to me about what it was like to read her original diagnostic report, what growing up in the skin she is in and with the brain that she has is like. Her wisdom reaches far beyond her current age; she is a budding self-advocate and is sure to be a strong voice in her community for years to come.
This NYMA episode features Haley Moss, renowned attorney, writer, artist, author, neurodiversity expert and disability rights advocate. She is the author of the new book, "Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals". She is also the host of the podcast, Spectrumly Speaking, that she co-hosts with Dr. Lori Butts. She has another book coming out next month, "The Young Autistic Adult's Independence Handbook ", coming out next month. She spoke to me about her origin story, what it means to be an advocate vs. a self-advocate, how the legal profession can embrace neurodiversity better, and the reason behind why she wrote her latest book.
To learn more about her philosophy, check out this episode and follow her on social media @haleymossart or online at haleymoss.com.
To round out this season's segment on representation in film and media, we speak with Domonique Brown, an actor best known for his work on the hit Netflix show, "Atypical". We talk to him about his autism diagnosis, his acting journey, his work on the show, what representation looks like to him and some of his plans for the future. To learn more about Domonique Brown, follow him on Instagram @d.cool19.
In this episode, we extend our series into exploring representation in film by having a great conversation with Tal Anderson, an actually autistic actor who recently starred in the hit Netflix series, "Atypical". She spent time with me to discuss her acting journey, her autism diagnosis, her dreams and what representation in film means to her. To learn more about her, follow her on Instagram at @thetalanderson.
In this week's episode, I have a great discussion with a sister filmmaking duo, Laura & Rachael Doukas, currently in the pre-production process of their upcoming feature, The Ryan Express. They sit down to speak with me about their filmmaking process, their decision to cast actually autistic actors and their personal connection behind why they chose to move in this direction. If you like what you hear, please leave a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts.
In this episode of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, we feature Natasha Mynhier, award winning-director "In A Beat", a movie about a black mother, her autistic son and the dynamics underlying their relationship. I speak with Natasha about the reasons behind why she wanted to depict neurodivergent storytelling in a way that highlighted autism through a diverse lens.
We also speak about the decision process she underwent in making casting and personnel decisions and the importance of having a neurodiverse team on a project like this. Take a listen and let us know what you think. If you like what you hear and haven't done so already, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts.
In this episode of the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, I speak with Bobby Rubio, Pixar director of the 2019 animated short film, Float. Earlier this year, Bobby spoke with me about the movie and his son, Alex, the inspiration behind the film. We talked about how being a parent to a child on the autism spectrum sparked the idea behind the film, the importance of representation in media, cultural stigma attached to an autism diagnosis, family life and the evolution he made as a dad to embrace the fullness of who his son is.
For those who have not yet seen the short film, it is available on Disney + .
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
In this NYMA episode, we speak to the President, CEO and Chairman of the Liberty Mutual Insurance Group, David Long, about his life as a CEO, a Dad and a husband. He and I had a very candid discussion about raising an autistic son in an age before modern day autism awareness and autism acceptance campaigns. He frankly discusses the isolation his family underwent in the early years of the diagnosis and how he channels those tough chapters of his life into pouring into community outreach efforts. We also talk about the way society has viewed brain differences through both his family's and my family's generational contexts.
To have a full appreciation of this conversation, please also check out the immediate previous episode, Season 3, Episode 2, where I interview Melissa MacDonnell, President of the Liberty Mutual Foundation, one of the leaders responsible for an all abilities playground built in Plano, Texas.
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
When you think of a playground, what comes to mind? Do you think of corporate philanthropy or corporate social responsibility? Do you think of community engagement with intentionality? Do you think of universal design with accessibility at its core? The Liberty Playground is located in Plano, Texas with an aim toward catering to children of all abilities. It is a playground that is the fruit of a public-private partnership between the City of Plano, Texas and Liberty Mutual Insurance.
In this episode, I sit down with one of the leaders responsible for the success of this playground coming to fruition, Melissa MacDonnell, the President of the Liberty Mutual Foundation. We discuss the evolution of corporate philanthropy and corporate social responsibility over time, how projects get assessed for impact, lessons learned and what drives her.
For context, please see the links below to the following information that highlights the playground grand opening.
Liberty Playground Grand Opening in September 2019
Liberty Mutual Insurance Announcement
Do you like what you hear? If so, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this podcast on.
Our first episode of our third season starts with a look into hiring practices at a global financial institution already known for its award winning autism and disability inclusion hiring practices. This episode looks into a relatively new set of business practices known as the Business Solutions Team ("BeST") program, an initiative with a mission to match intellectually and developmentally disabled employees with roles that fit their skill sets.
In this episode, I interview BeST Program leaders Bryan Gill, Celia Rodee and Danielle Meadows, who all share their experiences on the program's origin, challenges with running the initiative as a start-up within an established institution and where they see the future of the program going along with others like it.
Please visit the following for reference as to the statistics highlighted in this episode.
World Health Organization
Mentalhelp.net
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In our final episode of the season, we round out our segment on women on the spectrum through the illustrative eyes of Marcelle Ciampi, autistic writer, author, neurodiversity advocate and diversity and inclusion leader. She talks about masking, the behaviors used to conceal true behavior in order to conform to what is considered acceptable by the greater society. She also details her perspective on getting a later in life autism diagnosis, the hurdles she jumped to obtain it in the first place and what she thinks a normal brain likely looks like.
We appreciate her willingness to share and the many takeaways she provided through her vulnerability. For more information on Marcelle's writing, check out the link to Everyday Asperger's. For more information on the company mentioned in the episode, check out Ultranauts, Inc.
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
For years, the face of autism took on a male form. It is only in the recent era that more women have come forward with their stories in hopes to slowly change the narrative and highlight the beauty of the full range of neurodivergence that exists in society. As we close out our second season, we will hear from two different autistic women who have so graciously shared their journeys, including how society reacts to them when they tell people they are on the spectrum.
This episode, the next to last one of the season, features Ayanna Davis, a multi-faceted artist from New York who is an autistic, black woman. She talks about her later in life autism diagnosis, her initial reaction and how she feels today and how her art brings her joy. We hope you enjoy the richness of this episode.
I reference research in the episode that references data and statistics that relate to women on the spectrum. The CDC statistic is available here and the British Psychological Society article is available here. Also, for those who wish to follow Ayanna Davis on Instagram, you can follow here @phenomallyautistic.
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
This episode builds upon the previous three episodes that highlighted themes of race, neurodiversity, disability and community policing. In this episode, we discuss the talk about race that many black parents give to their children in an attempt to better protect them for the world ahead.
Through the eyes of three different black parents of autistic children, each provides a vulnerable and real look into their parenting philosophies and how they either went about or will go about discussing race with their autistic children. The view points are varied, told through the lens of a mother and two fathers and also explained through the perspectives of an autistic parent and two neurotypical parents.
One parent believes in starting this talk from an extremely early age while another has chosen to wait until later on in childhood. There is wisdom throughout and we are grateful for their rich contributions.
There are references to terms in this episode that are common in the autism community like stimming, masking and social stories. If you are not familiar with such terminology, feel free to click on any of the terms to gain a better understanding of what they all mean.
James Mosely is the first interview in the episode and can be reached on Instagram @1autistic_perspective and on his site.
Camille Proctor is the next interview in the episode and you can reach her at the Color of Autism websiteand here.
Johnathon Briggs is the final interview. He can be reached at his site Fatherhood at Forty, and here.
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
This episode builds upon our previous episode on community policing with autism and disability inclusion in mind. For this episode, Sergeant Charles Heasley, of the Plano, TX Police Department, provides a deeper understanding into community policing practices through the eyes of mental health, which includes how the Department trains its force to interact with members of the autism and intellectually disabled communities who may be experiencing a crisis of some kind, including mental health challenges. In this interview, he provides listeners to his initial impression of community policing and its strong social work component, deeper explanations of some of the policing programs catered to neurodiverse and/or intellectually disabled individuals, challenges that lay ahead and lessons learned along the way.
To get full context, it is strongly encouraged to listen to the two episodes immediately before this one, if you haven't done so already.
Here are some of the links below to some of the references made in this episode.
https://www.texascit.org/
https://www.collincountytx.gov/probate/Pages/default.aspx
http://pdf.plano.gov/1167/Take-Me-Home-Program
https://mypossibilities.org/
https://www.lifepathsystems.org/
22KILL Organization Helping Veterans | Programs & Therapies
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In Season 2, Episode 6 of the NYMA Podcast, we discuss interactions between law enforcement and members of the neurodivergent and intellectually disabled communities through more than one perspective. The episode picks up a bit from where it left off and includes personal narratives of various ways upon which my brother has had interactions with the police and concerns our family has for the next generation of neurodivergent children as they navigate their formative years when it comes to hoping that they come across law enforcement and community members that are understanding.
Another perspective will come through the eyes of a retired police sergeant and father of a son on the autism spectrum. Sergeant A.D. Paul is credited with starting a crisis intervention unit with neurodiversity in mind.
He believes that his nearly 30 year career is all part of his purpose and candidly walks you down the path of how he became nationally recognized for community policing with an emphasis on accommodating brains that are different. Juggling a role like that and the challenges of raising a son on the spectrum with the need for community supports is also highlighted.
Finally, Sergeant Paul discussed how he went about passing the baton to Sergeant Charles Heasley, the current head of the Plano Police Department's Crisis Intervention Unit, and our guest for our follow up episode.
Plano Police Sgt. A.D. Paul Testifies on Capitol Hill - YouTube
Take Me Home Program | Plano, TX - Official Website
If you like what you hear, please leave a five star review on Apple Podcasts or any other podcast platform you may be listening to this episode on!
In Season 2, Episode 5 of the NYMA podcast, we address the intersectionality of race and disability in America through the eyes of personal accounts. I interviewed my own brother, Wale, about his police stop when he was a teenage boy driving around our little brother, Kunle, also a teenager at the the time.
For those of you who have already been following us on social media and via this podcast, you are aware that Kunle is autistic with an intellectual disability. He is also non-verbal. One of his favorite pastimes, up until this current day, is to be driven around. It typically calms him and has been used countless times to ease his mind by not only Wale, but my parents, various aunts, uncles, cousins, family friends and me.
It would be one day when two teenage black boys, one neurotypical and one with special needs, chose to drive around their own neighborhood. It would be Wale's first traffic stop that would give him pause, make him feel uncomfortable and wonder about his future... it would not be his last as he grew up and eventually became a black man. It would be what happened after his first traffic stop that taught us all valuable life lessons that we would take with us for decades.
Emotional bruises were formed and this story wouldn't be revealed to my parents until much, much later in life. Perhaps it was simply because we didn't want to add on to their stress, but we chose to internalize, until we couldn't anymore.
For more information that addresses issues related to the intersectionality of race , neurodiversity and/or disability, check out The Color of Autism Foundation. For more information on sibling support groups, check out the National Autism Foundation for some more information.
You want love and marriage advice? You want to learn about a particular couple's marriage philosophy? You may get a million answers. But, in Season 2, Episode 4 of the NYMA podcast, we take you down this road through the eyes of a candid neurodiverse couple, a husband and wife, based in the UK.
For those of you following us on social media and via the podcast, you will recognize one of the voices, Lee Corless, who I spoke with in the immediate previous episode. In this episode, he is back with us, along with his wife Jeanette. Given their neurodiversity, they speak about how they learned to communicate properly with one another, what they learned about themselves by being married to the other, raising neurodiverse children and much more.
We conducted this interview via Zoom and sometimes with laptop audio only, so there may be patches where the audio quality is not what you are used to. We apologize for those technical difficulties, but do hope you still enjoy the universal relationship advice this couple so beautifully shared.
In Season 2, Episode 3 of our podcast, we address the high unemployment rate of adults with autism and the corporate inclusion efforts that have since risen up to combat this societal problem. Solutions to this issue involve a multi-faceted array of stakeholders.
This episode focuses on neurodiversity inclusion efforts of major corporations; future episodes will eventually get into areas like community partners that train some individuals to be ready for such jobs, etc.
We were honored to have interviewed Lee Corless, Vice President at JPMorgan Chase, based in the UK. Through the firm's Autism at Work program, he helps to lead diversity and inclusion efforts in the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) region as well as Asia Pacific. He speaks on his own later in life autism diagnosis, raising his son who is also on the spectrum, current inclusion efforts and what he sees the future to be in this area ( and so much more).
For some preliminary research on autism employment efforts and some approaches to improvement, please refer to some of the following sites. We hope you enjoy the episode. In the meantime, take care.
U.S. Department of Labor
Spectrum News
Autism Speaks
Society of Human Resources Management
Forbes
University of Pennsylvania
In Episode 2, Season 2 of NYMA, two moms of children with special needs, Betsy and Tracey, speak to their triumphs and challenges associated with starting and/or expanding business in the midst of a global pandemic while balancing motherhood, a full-time job and/or kids' various therapy treatments.
Both women talk about the way in which their children's special needs present themselves individually in each child, how their business ideas first occurred to them and where their business growing in 5 years.
Regardless of the particular challenge presented on any given day, both Betsy and Tracey make the proactive decision to put one foot in front of the other. They are resilience in action.
For more information on Miles to Row, check out Betsy on IG @milestorow and at the website https://.milestorow.com .
For more information on Thriving on the Spectrum, check out Tracey on Facebook and Instagram at @thrivingonthespectrum and on their website at https://.thrivingonthespectrum.org.
Thanks to registered dietician Brittyn Coleman , MS, RDN/LD, CLT , this episode focuses on some of the many dietary considerations that may be made in determining what is the best diet so that some people on the spectrum can increase their quality of life.
In this episode, we first talk about GI issues discovered in the earlier days of our daughter's autism journey. After thinking that these challenges were properly addressed, we discovered recently that this was not quite the case. We realized the need to add a dietician to our medical team in order to properly address issues concerning the gut, especially in light of an understanding of the gut-brain connection, was important to her development as she continued to age.
Brittyn drops many nuggets of wisdom on how families can start learning how to optimally feed the body with neurodiversity in mind. Her website is available here and she is also available on Instagram at @autismdietitian.
Earlier on in the episode, references are made to the Cleveland Clinic's explanation of the gut-brain connection, available on their website.
Brittyn also referenced the following companies when discussing supplements: Seeking Health , Klaire Labs, Pure Encapsulations and Designs for Health.
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In our Season Finale of NYMA, we take you into midst of the pandemic through the eyes of a family that needs significant community supports in order to thrive. When parts of your community supports are impacted by the type of virus almost nobody was alive to see the last time this happened, the status quo becomes a casualty on the road to the "new normal".
This episode details one family's account of the year never to be forgotten while still exhibiting persistence and resilience along the way. Whether it be a breakdown in services to a child with special needs to spectacularly failing at administering special education virtually without the requisite education or experience to ending up in the hospital, this family rolled with the punches and continues to do so. One. Day. At. A. Time.
Episode 8 of the NYMA podcast takes listeners on the road down an uncomfortable subject to many...money...particularly financial and estate planning. It's the intersection of where money can meet the future. In our case, it's the intersection of where money can meet the future, but with an asterisk. Sometimes, the day to day stresses of life can prevent you from achieving attainable long-term goals that can set your family up for the future. Our family had to shift our mindset from in the now to thinking more generationally. So, this episode dictates just some of what we had to take into consideration when we realized that our plans may need plans.
A high level conversation on estate planning with attorney Christina Thomas is included, who is licensed in DC and Maryland. For more information about legal services she could potentially provide in this space, check out https://eplfirm.com/.
As this episode states at the beginning, the content in this episode is not meant to replace legal and/or financial advice customized to one's own individual needs provided by attorneys and other professionals as it relates to estate planning or financial planning.
In America, the word "health insurance" has become incredibly politically charged. For our family, having the right health insurance customized for our family's needs is beyond the political, it's highly personal. Moving to a new state revealed how different states tackled insurance coverage as it related to types of therapies and even the duration of care.
Families like ours don't have the luxury of trying to figure out insurance coverage once they move to a new state. So, we tried to do as much research ahead of time as we could. But, even with all the planning in the world, things happened, some foreseen and some not. Regardless, important, sometimes expensive, lessons have been learned. A more resilient version of our family would emerge. One day at a time.
In this episode, upon touching down in a city in a completely different region of the country, it became clear fairly quickly that life as we knew it would change... and not in the ways in which we originally thought. This episode addresses the surprises along the way in those early days in the Lone Star State and the people in our lives who would become community. From complete strangers to old family friends we would discover now lived in the same state as us, a new, Texas village would form. This episode starts a series in our podcast, "Don't Mess With Texas: Finding Answers in the Lone Star State". We hope you enjoy Part 1.
If it takes a village to raise a child, it may need two villages to care of a child with special needs. Adversity has a way of revealing who genuinely is in one's corner and who isn't. This episode takes you through various examples of how people chose to be present in another's life in a meaningful way. It also briefly touches upon how even family members can disappoint you at a time when you are at your most vulnerable. Through a series of random acts of kindness, Village 2.0 would emerge and prove to be a strong foundation for a family in need of community.
And Then There Was Two starts to tell the story of the effect medical diagnoses can have on a family, particularly two life changing diagnoses less than one year apart from each other. Listeners will hear the origin story of the youngest member of the clan and how her autism differs from her big brother. Complete with perspectives from Dad, big brother, Mom and a Board Certified Behavioral Analyst and Psychologist, this episode navigates you through the strains this can cause on a family as well and the silver linings along the way.
As the old adage goes, "nothing you've been through is wasted." In Episode 3, NYMA dives into that time in the initial steps of the journey when parents are discovering the broad range of what neurodiversity looks like and the challenges associated with it.
In this instance though, one of the parents had nearly a life time of experience, living with a sibling with autism. This episodes walks the listener through those initial moments where history appeared to be repeating itself in parts. The major difference was that this was a different era, one with far more tools than there was in previous generations.
Tough conversations on the road to marriage may include net worth, credit scores and medical histories. But, for siblings of people with special needs, an additional layer of complexity may need to be grappled with pre-union.
For the host, an older sister of a man living with autism and an intellectual disability, it was important for her to have this conversation with her soon to be husband, who hadn't experienced autism intimately the way she had.
Not Your Mama's Autism takes you on a journey on the road to marriage with three couples where at least one partner has a sibling with profound enough special needs that long term care is required. Hear their perspectives and the reasoning behind each.
Welcome to the very first episode of Not Your Mama's Autism (NYMA) Podcast! NYMA takes you on a journey into autism through a series of multigenerational, cross-cultural narratives and conversations. In order to better understand our autism journey, we thought it was fitting to start at the beginning and tell the story of my greatest teacher, my baby brother who lives with autism and an intellectual disability.
He taught me time and time again that you don't need words to communicate along with too many other life lessons to count. I take you through the challenges my family faced at this time and the lessons I would learn decades later.
Welcome to the Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, where we talk about my family's autism journey through a multi-general angle. My baby brother, my son and my daughter all live with autism. My family looks forward to sharing our story with you through personal narrative and our village of health care professionals, family members, mentors, allies and educators.