Explore every episode of the podcast Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Simple Solutions to Concierge Advocacy: Michelle Choairy’s New Mission | 18 Nov 2025 | 00:59:05 | |
Michelle Choairy is back—this time launching her new brand, Special Education Concierge! In this episode, Michelle shares her journey from Simple Solutions for Complex Kids to becoming a dedicated advocate for families navigating special education. We talk about what real advocacy looks like, how parents can find the right support, and why early intervention and the right advocate can make all the difference. Plus, we spotlight Autistic Wings Dance Company, the nonprofit founded by our 14-year-old co-host, Leta Rundell, and their mission to provide dance opportunities for autistic kids in Colorado Springs—especially as funding challenges loom. If you’re a parent of a special needs child, or just want to hear inspiring stories of advocacy, tap dancing, and a little bit of “tism,” this episode is for you! 👉 Check out Michelle’s website to see if she’s the advocate for you: — Links & Resources: • Support Autistic Wings Dance Company’s fundraiser: • Visit our website: • Join the PodMatch Podcast Network: • Want to be a guest on Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? | |||
| Love, Autism, and Relationships: Dr. David Helfand Shares Expert Advice | 14 Nov 2025 | 00:47:37 | |
Clinical psychologist Dr. David Helfand joins us to discuss love, autism, and what makes relationships work for neurodiverse couples. Real stories, expert tips, and honest conversation in under an hour!
Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? | |||
| Navigating Late Diagnoses of Autism and ADHD Parenting Neurodivergent Children with Nikola Knobel | 10 Oct 2025 | 00:42:48 | |
In this engaging conversation, Nicola Knobel shares her experiences with late diagnoses of autism and ADHD, discussing the challenges and insights gained from parenting neurodivergent children. The discussion explores communication styles within neurodivergent families, the impact of strict parenting, and the importance of understanding differences in behavior. The conversation also touches on the effects of COVID on resilience and growth in children, as well as the significance of accurate information in navigating workplace challenges. Overall, the dialogue emphasizes the complexities of neurodiversity and the shared experiences of those within the community. | |||
| Building Bridges Between Dance and Language Development with Jeaneen Tang | 25 Oct 2024 | 00:23:37 | |
Discover the transformative power of dance in language development as we explore innovative strategies with our special guest, Jeaneen Tang, author of "Play Dumb and Sabatoge". Jeaneen shares her expertise on how integrating dance vocabulary gradually and employing multimodal learning approaches can significantly benefit children with autism and speech and language challenges, along with neurotypical children. | |||
| Why Being Professionally Fitted For Your Dance Shoes Matters with LeeAnn and Courtney Kay | 18 Oct 2024 | 00:52:36 | |
This week we bring back the amazing mother-daughter duo behind Styles in Motion is Las Cruces, New Mexico. LeeAnn and Courtney Kay stop by to discuss why a professional shoe fitting is important. From making sure your shoe is the right width, to ensuring it has the proper structure to support you, there is so much more than just "does this shoe look good" to consider when buying dance shoes. | |||
| Building Better Futures: Early Intervention and Advocacy Insights with Michelle Choairy | 11 Oct 2024 | 00:33:36 | |
How can parents become the ultimate advocates for their children with complex needs? Join us as we uncover the transformative journey of Michelle Choairy, founder of Collective Wisdom for Complex Kids. Michelle shares her heartfelt story and the unique challenges she faced in ensuring her son receives the best care and support. You'll learn the critical role of early intervention and physical activity in helping children with complex needs thrive. Michelle offers actionable advice on effectively communicating your child's sensory and texture issues to teachers and coaches, fostering a more understanding and supportive environment. | |||
| Exploring Sound Sensitivity and Tap Dancing | 04 Oct 2024 | 00:42:07 | |
Behind the rhythm of tap shoes lies a complex dance with sensory issues that many of us may not fully understand. We unpack the intricacies of noise sensitivity, which creates a unique relationship with sound for Leta and others like her. Learn how different noises bring comfort or discomfort, and uncover the humor in Leta's adorable interactions with her pets and the distinctive ways she embraces or shields herself from unwanted sounds. This candid exploration offers a window into the diverse sensory experiences faced by those with neurodiverse conditions, revealing personal strategies and tools that provide solace amidst chaos. | |||
| Halloween Costume Memories: A Stroll Down Memory Lane | 27 Sep 2024 | 00:40:02 | |
After last week's rant of an episode, Leta and Amanda lighten things up. Between discussing what Halloween costumes they are handing out, to reminiscing about the Halloween Costumes Leta has worn through the years, this episode is sure to bring a smile to your face. (It even includes a discussion about the very controversial candy corn.) | |||
| Let Your Child Fly: Why Dance Classes Can Help Your Autistic Child Soar | 20 Sep 2024 | 00:37:07 | |
Can fostering independence in autistic children significantly impact their lifelong success? This week's episode of Leta's Tap Styles uncovers the profound ways dance can support autistic students and help them thrive. We discuss Leta's journey from a non-verbal child to a verbal, tap dancing, teenager who is the founder of a 501(c)3 dance studio for autistic dancers in Colorado Springs. | |||
| Dance, Laugh, Repeat: Highlights from DC Tap Fest 2024 | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:29:50 | |
What happens when you take someone who feels like a "blobby blobfish" and throw her on stage with the SoleTalk International Youth Tap Company at the DC Tap Fest? Spoiler: you get Leta! Join us on Leta's Tap Style Podcast as we share a vibrant and humorous rundown of the festival's highlights, from the All-Star concert to the SoleTalk video shoot on the National Mall. Leta and Amanda give us the lowdown on what it's really like behind the scenes, the early mornings, and the sheer exhaustion of those jam-packed dance days. | |||
| Crafting Dance Versions of IEPs for Autistic Performers | 30 Aug 2024 | 00:29:54 | |
Ever wondered how to create a truly inclusive dance environment for autistic children? This week on Leta's Tap Styles, Leta and Amanda introduce Autistic Wings Dance Company's innovative new idea for working with dancers on the Spectrum, a unique dance version of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) tailored specifically for autistic dancers. This plan is being developed with input from parents, advocates, therapists, and autistic dancers. It aims to empower each dancer by focusing on their strengths, addressing their challenges, and setting personalized goals, all written down so dance teachers can access and know more about how their students learn best. | |||
| Making the Impossible Possible: Creating a Dance Space for Autistic Dancers in Colorado Springs | 27 Aug 2024 | 00:21:46 | |
Can you imagine a dance studio tailored specifically for the autistic community, complete with state-of-the-art features and endless opportunities for growth? Join me, Leta, in this special episode of "Leta Tap Styles," as Mom and me announce the exciting news of a potential new dance studio home for the Autistic Wings Dance Company (AWDC) in Colorado Springs. And, you'll get to hear me talk about how Mom and Miss Gayle are weird because they think this is a Cinderella thing, but it's not a shoe. | |||
| A Fusion of Dance and Imagination with Leta | 25 Aug 2024 | 00:18:57 | |
Have you ever felt the rhythm of life through your soul? Join us as Leta, a 13-year-old autistic dancer with severe dyslexia, captivates you with her stories from the world of tap dance. From her passion for urban and Hollywood culture to her adorable puppies and the thrill of the upcoming DC Tap Fest, Leta’s journey is nothing short of exhilarating. Despite facing technical setbacks with live streaming, she shares vivid experiences on stage, highlighting the poetic essence of dance. With unforgettable moments alongside mentors and fellow dancers at SoleTalk, and her favorite class, Afrofunk led by the spirited Miss Maud, Leta’s enthusiasm is contagious. | |||
| Autism, ADHD & Dance: Real Talk on Neurodiversity and Inclusion | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:37:09 | |
Join Amanda and Leta for an honest, unfiltered conversation about living with autism and ADHD. In this episode, they break down myths, share personal stories, and discuss the realities of ableism, inclusion, and the importance of safe spaces—especially in the dance world. Whether you’re neurodivergent or want to better understand the neurodivergent experience, you’ll find insight, support, and community here. Learn more: | |||
| Resilience and Hope in a Tumultuous Week | 10 Aug 2024 | 00:21:45 | |
What happens when the emotional highs of a successful project mix with the lows of unexpected crises? This week, we take you on a rollercoaster journey that begins with a technically challenging yet triumphant podcast recording featuring LeeAnn and Courtney from Styles in Motion in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Just as things seemed on track, our world was turned upside down by an emergency vet visit for our puppy, Jack Elvis, who had a health scare involving blood in her stool. As soon as Jack Elvis started to mend, the other pup, Vella, developed an entirely different GI Issue that meant another emergency trip to the vet. This time, on the morning of Autistic Wings Dance Company's first open house. | |||
| (Re-Upload) All About Styles in Motion | 04 Aug 2024 | 00:20:05 | |
(Re-uploading due to a technical glitch with the previous upload where it cut out an entire question I asked Miss LeeAnn!) | |||
| Navigating the World of Tap Shoes With Autism: Leta's Review of the So Danca Taylas (TA800V) | 26 Jul 2024 | 00:25:21 | |
Summary | |||
| All About SoleTalk; an international youth tap company | 19 Jul 2024 | 00:21:50 | |
Summary | |||
| Join us at the Open House for Autistic Wings Dance Company, August 3, 2024 | 12 Jul 2024 | 00:34:48 | |
Summary | |||
| In LA For SoleTalk and Hollywood TapFest (Part 2) | 05 Jul 2024 | 00:38:14 | |
Part Two of Mom and I talking about this year's Hollywood Tapfest. This week, Mom and I cover the main festival weekend. We chitchat about Tap on Film, the different classes, why you should donate to Miss Chloe and Miss Maud's foundation, and more. We also look ahead to DCTapFest coming up over Labor Day. | |||
| In LA for SoleTalk and Hollywood TapFest (Part One) | 21 Jun 2024 | 00:46:01 | |
Leta and Amanda record the show this week from on the road at Hollywood TapFest. (We promise she was in classes when this episode drops.) | |||
| Why I Founded Autistic Wings Dance Company | 14 Jun 2024 | 00:31:43 | |
Summary | |||
| Introduction to Leta | 11 Jun 2024 | 00:01:15 | |
Who is Leta? | |||
| Why AWDC Needs a Mission Moment Video | 09 Jun 2024 | 00:38:33 | |
Amanda drops by to discuss what a Mission Moment Video is, while constantly calling it a Magic Moment. | |||
| Art, Play & Healing: Expressive Therapy for Neurodivergent Minds | 03 Oct 2025 | 00:41:00 | |
Is talk therapy not working for you or your child? Discover how expressive arts therapy—using art, play, and creativity—can unlock healing for neurodivergent minds. In this episode, therapist Emily Cox shares her expertise in working with autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults. We explore why traditional therapy sometimes falls short, and how creative approaches can make all the difference. You’ll learn: • What expressive arts therapy is (and how it’s different from art therapy) • Why neurodivergent people may need more than just talk • Real stories of transformation through art, play, and movement • How to find the right therapist for your needs Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Visit our website: https://www.letatapstyles.com | |||
| Autistic Wings Dance Company's Schedule Announcement | 09 Jun 2024 | 00:39:14 | |
Leta and Amanda discuss Autistic Wings Dance Company new class offerings and seeks support through donations, sponsorships, and community engagement. The organization aims to provide inclusive dance programs for autistic children and emphasizes the need for financial support to sustain its operations and expand its impact. | |||
| Behind the Tap Shoes: Autism, Dance, and Filming with Leta | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:31:55 | |
Go behind the scenes with Leta and Amanda as they share what it’s like to film a tap dance video as an autistic teen. From sensory challenges to creative breakthroughs, discover the real stories behind the tap shoes. Follow Leta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letatapstyles YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles Donate to Leta's nonprofit dance studio at https://onecau.se/_bt8p21 Learn more about Autistic Wings Dance Company at https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org | |||
| Turning Grief Into Art: Faith Jacobs’ Journey with Autism, Neurodiversity, and Mozart | 26 Sep 2025 | 00:56:03 | |
Author Faith Jacobs shares how writing about a neurodivergent Mozart helped her heal from grief and embrace her own autism. We discuss mental health, authentic representation, and the power of storytelling to inspire and connect. Connect with Faith: faithjacobsoffical | Instagram | Linktree Amazon.com: Faith jacobs: books, biography, latest update Faith jacobs (Author of Faithfully Yours Mozart) | Goodreads Visit us: https://www.letatapstyles.com Want to be a guest? Message Amanda on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Adaptive Isn’t Enough: Real Stories from Autistic Dancers & the Studio | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:50:41 | |
Join Amanda and Leta as they get real about what “adaptive” dance classes are like for autistic dancers—and why that label often misses the mark. In this episode, you’ll hear honest stories from inside the studio, learn what truly makes a dance space supportive, and discover why simply adapting isn’t enough for neurodivergent kids. We’ll also share resources, fundraising updates, and ways you can get involved—whether you’re a dancer, a parent, or just passionate about inclusion. Links mentioned in this episode: • Studio: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org • Watch Spencer’s Mom on YouTube Shorts: https://youtube.com/shorts/F013IlCkGMw?feature=share • Donate to Autistic Wings: https://onecau.se/_bt8p21 • Sign up for Par-Tee for Autistic Wings (Nov 9th, Top Golf, Colorado Springs): https://onecau.se/_byupn1 Want to be a guest on Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Hit follow and join the conversation about dance, autism, and building spaces where everyone belongs! | |||
| Safeguarding Autistic Children: Boundaries and Consent | 19 Sep 2025 | 01:02:44 | |
Disclaimer: Welcome to a special “Friends’ Friday” episode of Leta’s Tap Styles And My Autistic Life! Links & Resources:
Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? | |||
| We Have More in Common: Autism, Dance, and the Power of Conversations | 16 Sep 2025 | 00:46:33 | |
Amanda and Leta share honest conversations about autism, dance, and what happens when we stop listening and start seeing each other as “the enemy.” This episode explores how real dialogue can bridge divides and help us find common ground—because we have more in common than we think. Learn more about Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life) by visiting our website https://www.letatapstyles.com Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Autism, Migration, and Motherhood: Loretta Lee's Journey From Malaysia to the UK | 12 Sep 2025 | 00:51:25 | |
Join us on "Friends' Friday" as Loretta Lee joins us to share her journey as a neurotypical mom raising an autistic child after migrating from Malaysia to the UK. Discover how Loretta built a support “village,” navigated new systems, and found hope for her family. Connect with Loretta using the links below to access her resources and join her community. Connect with Loretta Lee: Our Website: https://www.letatapstyles.com Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? | |||
| Blake & Pickens: Changing the Game for Neurodivergent Families | 05 Sep 2025 | 00:58:39 | |
Join us as we talk with Blake Bowman and Pickens—two passionate coaches and advocates—about the real-life experiences, challenges, and triumphs of neurodivergent individuals and their families. Blake and Pickens share their personal stories, discuss the importance of identity and independence, and offer practical insights for building confidence and community. No matter what your background is, you’ll find encouragement, new perspectives, and actionable ideas in this engaging conversation about neurodiversity, growth, and support. Find out more about Aspie-r here https://www.aspie-r.com/ | |||
| Behind the Tap: Golf, Grit & Giving – Autistic Wings Fundraiser Special | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:32:38 | |
Join hosts Leta Rundell and Amanda Trisdale for a special episode celebrating the launch of Leta’s latest tap dance video—filmed on the beautiful greens of Antler Creek Golf Course! This episode drops alongside Autistic Wings Dance Company’s Colorado Gives fundraising campaign, supporting inclusive dance opportunities for autistic dancers. Go behind the scenes with exclusive stories, bloopers, and heartfelt moments as Leta shares her journey as a 14-year-old nonprofit founder, dancer, and advocate. Discover how you can help us reach our fundraising goals and make a difference for neurodiverse dancers! Special thanks to: • Antler Creek Golf Course for generously allowing us to film this unique project. • So Danca USA for designing Leta’s custom autistic awareness tap shoes. • Dance Daze Dance Boards for building Leta’s portable dance boards. 💛 Donate to Autistic Wings: https://mtyc.co/s2s76g Every dollar helps us provide a creative, supportive space for neurodiverse dancers. Thank you for listening and supporting our mission! AutisticWings #ColoradoGives #TapDance #Fundraiser #Inclusion #Podcast | |||
| In the Works: Planning a Charity Golf Game & Tap Dance for Autistic Wings Dance Company | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:28:27 | |
In this episode, we dive into the planning process for our upcoming charity golf game benefiting Autistic Wings Dance Company. What starts as a discussion about fundraising logistics soon turns into a lively conversation about Leta’s unique tap dance choreography for the event. Expect plenty of laughs, creative detours, and a peek behind the curtain as we prepare for this one-of-a-kind fundraiser. Learn more or get involved: Autistic Wings: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org | |||
| Autism, Representation & Advice: Inside the NYC Showbiz Scene with Talent Agent Albert Bramante | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:56:24 | |
What’s it really like navigating the NYC showbiz scene as a neurodiverse talent—or as the agent representing them? In this episode, NYC talent agent Albert Bramante joins us to talk about autism, representation, and the realities of working in entertainment. We discuss the unique challenges and opportunities for autistic actors, how the industry is changing, and Albert’s advice for families and aspiring performers. Learn more about Albert Bramante: Explore more episodes and resources: Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? | |||
| Moving Boxes, Tap Shoes, and Golf Clubs? | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:21:46 | |
This week on Leta’s Tap Styles and My Autistic Life, Amanda and Leta go behind the scenes as they navigate the chaos of moving houses, recording Tap Tuesday episodes on the fly, and keeping their nonprofit dance studio, Autistic Wings Dance Company, running strong. Hear about Leta’s new promo shoot for Autistic Wings, the hilarious challenge of learning to golf in dance shoes, and the real-life moments that don’t always make it into the final cut. Expect honest conversation about neurodivergence, plenty of laughs, and a peek into the unpredictable world of running a dance studio for autistic kids. Whether you’re here for the tap dancing, the golf adventures, or just a dose of real life, this episode is for you! 🔗 Stay connected & support us:
💌 Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Follow us for more stories, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates from the world of dance, autism, and everything in between. | |||
| Special Needs Parenting: Advocacy, Laughter, and Real Solutions — Michelle’s Back! | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:45:20 | |
Michelle’s back! In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life), join Leta, Amanda, and returning guest Michelle for a lively, laughter-filled conversation about special needs parenting, advocacy, and real solutions for complex kids. We dive into IEPs, 504s, and the everyday realities of raising and supporting neurodiverse children, with plenty of personal stories and practical advice. Michelle shares her expertise as a mentor and advocate for families navigating special education. Learn more about her mentoring and advocacy services at michellechoairy.com. At the end of the episode, we ask for your support to help keep Autistic Wings Dance Company thriving. If you’re able, please consider donating at autisticwingsdancecompany.org. Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Thank you for listening, supporting, and being part of our community! | |||
| (Pre-Recorded) Introducing Autistic Wings Dance Company's Small Business Partnership Program | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:31:19 | |
(Pre-recorded) Leta and Amanda head to Autistic Wings for a Special Tap Tuesday episode. This week we discuss Autistic Wings new Small Business Partnership Program, and their new Individual Partnership Levels. Leta, Amanda, - and shouted comments from Gayle Knowles - also talk about this amazing autistic-led dance studio for autistic dancers in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Help Keep Autistic Wings' doors open by joining their individual donor program https://onecau.se/_bt8p21 Are you a small business? Or a large business? Join their Small Business Partnership Program https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org/small-business-partnerships Check out Autistic Wings' Fall 2025 schedule and program on their website https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Blending Neurospicy Families: Real Stories of Autism, ADHD, and Love | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:46:43 | |
This episode explores the joys and challenges of blending neurospicy families—where autism, ADHD, and authenticity are part of everyday life. Join us for honest conversations, laughter, and practical insights on parenting, partnership, and living life out loud. Learn more about our guests and find resources at: https://www.letatapstyles.com Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Like what you hear? Follow, rate, and share to help us reach more neurospicy families and allies! | |||
| Wings of Hope: Leta's Story & Urgent Fundraiser | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:43:51 | |
This isn’t just another episode. It’s a call for help. Autistic Wings Dance Company has given Leta and so many others a place to belong, to move, and to be seen. Now, that safe space is at risk of closing its doors. Listen as Leta shares what Autistic Wings means to her, and why your support matters now more than ever. If you believe in the power of community, inclusion, and the arts, please join us in keeping this dream alive. Support Autistic Wings: Connect: Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life) is part of the PodMatch Podcasting Network. Want to be a guest? Message Amanda Trisdale on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Thank you for listening, sharing, and supporting our dancers. Every bit helps keep Autistic Wings soaring. | |||
| Beyond the Script: Championing Autistic Talent | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:56:17 | |
Marlene Sharp joins us again this week as we go beyond the script to explore the world of autism in the Hollywood. From her positions on Autism in Entertainment and Spectrum Labatory, Marlene is a passionate advocate for autistic actors. This week we talk about the challenges and triumphs of championing autistic talent. From breaking down barriers in casting to creating more inclusive environments on and off stage, Marlene shares her insights, experiences, and the importance of authentic representation. Whether you’re in the industry or simply passionate about inclusion, this conversation will inspire you to see the power and potential of neurodivergent voices in entertainment and beyond. Autism in Entertainment and Spectrum Labatory are both 501(c)3 nonprofits. Your gifts to these amazing organizations help support advocating for those on the Spectrum and helps provide job training. Find out more on their websites. Autism in Entertainment https://autisminentertainment.org/ Spectrum Labatory https://www.speclabs.org/ Check out Marlene and Pink Poodles Productions https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlenesharp/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Tap, Survive, Repeat Leta’s Guide for Neurodiverse Dancers at Big Events | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:42:56 | |
Tune in as Leta shares her personal strategies for navigating the high-energy, sensory-rich world of tap festivals. These spaces are designed with neurotypical dancers in mind, not neurodiverse autistic dancers. From finding quiet corners to using headphones and building connections with supportive friends, Leta opens up about what it takes to not just survive but truly enjoy these vibrant events as a neurodiverse dancer. This conversation isn’t about changing the festival. It’s about celebrating the unique ways neurodiverse dancers can enter spaces not meant for autistic dancers and make their own way. Check out our website https://www.letatapstyles.com for everything you have ever wanted to know about the podcast, to see profiles of former guests, and to see a list of Leta’s favorite things. Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest (You can also see what previous guests think about being on the podcast!) Interested in more information about the nonprofit dance studio Leta started for autistic dancers? Check out the website https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org | |||
| Jeaneen’s Back! Fun Ways for Parents to Help Kids Learn to Speak | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:42:55 | |
Jeaneen Tang, author of "Play Dumb and Sabotage" and one of our favorite Speech and Language Pathologist, makes her return to the podcast! Jeaneen’s unique perspective as a SLP and a mother of a child with speech delays formed the building blocks of her book. We dive into practical advice, personal stories, and the importance of embracing different ways of thinking and connecting. Discover more about Jeaneen and her work at playdumbandsabotage.com. Learn more about us at letatapstyles.com. Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life) is proud to be a member of the PodMatch Podcasting Network. Interested in being a guest on the show? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Transforming Lives Through Breathing Techniques with Raj Khedun | 07 Nov 2025 | 00:53:41 | |
In this enlightening conversation, Raj Khedun and Marleen discuss the importance of breathing techniques in managing neurodiversity, particularly in individuals with autism and ADHD. They share personal stories of overcoming challenges through natural methods, emphasizing the role of breathing in unlocking healing hormones and achieving mental clarity. The discussion also highlights the significance of family dynamics in implementing these techniques and the skepticism often faced by practitioners. Practical exercises are shared, demonstrating how simple breathing methods can transform negative energy into positive outcomes, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals. Chapters | |||
| Leta's Autistic Guide to Surviving A Hollywood Tap Video Shoot | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:31:35 | |
Join Leta—autistic dancer and tap queen—as she shares her quirky, upbeat guide to surviving a Hollywood video shoot! From sensory challenges (socks, wires, and costumes!) to snack hacks and set chaos, Leta dishes out real talk and laughter for dancers, creatives, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes adventure. Ready to tap into the fun? Check out more: Website: letatapstyles.com | |||
| Beyond Braille Overlooked Accessibility in Everyday Spaces | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:55:08 | |
Join us this week as we welcome back our friend and passionate advocate, Leanne Pritchett. Leanne shares real-life stories, practical tips, and her unique perspective as an educator and accessibility consultant. From IEP Meeting tips to how to make small changes that help the visually impaired navigate the world a little easier, this episode has tips for everyone. Leanne's podcast can be found here http://swellcast.com/thems.leanne You can find more about Leanne here http://linktr.ee/thems.leanne Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest | |||
| Leta's Guide to Surviving Planes and Panic (And Hiding Stuffies from Mom) | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:30:34 | |
Step into the world of Leta, autistic tap dancer and founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company, as she prepares to fly out to LA. In “Leta's Guide to Surviving Planes and Panic (And Hiding Stuffies from Mom),” Leta shares her real-life strategies for navigating airports, managing sensory overload, and keeping her beloved stuffies close (even when Mom’s not looking). With humor, honesty, and a dancer’s determination, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into traveling with autism, the importance of routines and comfort items, and the joy of bringing a little tap-dancing spirit wherever you go. Perfect for families, fellow neurodivergent travelers, and anyone who loves a story about resilience and rhythm! Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest
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| Blue J Cleaning’s Mission of Inclusiveness and Belonging | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:50:04 | |
Blue J Cleaning isn’t your typical cleaning company. Founder Janet Shultz shares how her business hires autistic employees—not out of charity, but to build a team held to the highest standards. Discover how Blue J fosters a culture of respect, belonging, and opportunity, where every employee is treated the way anyone would want to be treated. Learn more about Blue J Cleaning by visiting their website https://www.bluejcleaningfranchise.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest You can always find out more about our amazing guests by visiting our website https://www.letatapstyles.com | |||
| Christmas In July: So Danca Sent Leta a Package | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:30:52 | |
What happens when your favorite dancewear company sends you a Christmas Present in July? A pair custom designed with an autistic flair? You do a podcast all about how cool the shoes are! Join us as Amanda and Leta share the excitement, talk about the design, and discuss what makes these shoes so special. If you want your own autistic themed tap shoes, contact LeAnn Kay at Styles in Motion: https://stylesinmotionllc.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Don’t forget to check out our website to see a list of Leta’s Favorite Things and find out about all of our past guests. https://www.letatapstyles.com | |||