Explore every episode of the podcast Moms Talk Autism Podcast

What if what looks like anxiety, rigidity, or “just part of autism” is actually OCD?

This week, Brittney, Tash, and Shannon sit down with clinician and mom of four neurodiverse children, Natalia Aiza, to talk about how OCD can show up in neurodivergent kids—and why it can sometimes be difficult to recognize.

We get into fear, compulsions, anxiety, and the overlap that can make it hard for parents to know what they’re actually seeing.

Natalia also shares what families may want to pay attention to and why understanding the reason behind a behavior can change the way we support our kids.

Because sometimes the behavior isn’t the whole story.

Sometimes fear is driving a lot more than we realize.

Instagram: @letstalk.ocd

Website: www.kairoswellnesscollective.com 

Books and other resources: https://nataliaaiza.com/

IOCDF.org

Dr. Eli Lebowitz

Breaking Free Books

Children’s Yale-Brown OC Scale (CYBOCS)

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How much should we expect from our kids?

And how do we know when we’re asking too much… or not enough?

This week, we’re revisiting a conversation about one of the hardest parts of parenting neurodivergent kids: balancing support and accommodation with opportunities to build independence, resilience, and confidence.

Our kids may need things to look different. They may need more time, more support, or a completely different path. But that doesn’t mean we stop giving them chances to learn, adapt, experience consequences, and discover what they’re capable of.

The hard part is figuring out where that line is for your child.

We talk about expectations, limitations, coping skills, independence, and why there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

At the end of the day, we keep coming back to the same things: know your child, communicate in whatever way works for your family, and lead with love.

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When does helping actually stop helping?

This week, we’re talking about the very blurry line between supporting our kids and accidentally doing too much for them.

As parents of autistic and neurodivergent kids, it can be hard to know when to step in, when to wait, and when to let them struggle a little so they can build confidence and independence.

We get into self-care skills, hygiene, sibling dynamics, puberty, patience, and the importance of presuming competence - even when our instinct is screaming at us to just do it for them.

And sometimes the bigger challenge is looking at ourselves and asking the uncomfortable question: are we helping… or are we getting in the way?

It’s a balancing act - guiding them, supporting them, protecting them, and still giving them room to grow.

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What if some of the things we’ve been taught about autism aren’t actually the whole story?

This week, we’re joined by Jonathan Alderson, author of Challenging the Myths of Autism, to talk about the beliefs and assumptions that can shape the way we approach autistic children—and what happens when we start questioning them.

We get into why there is no one-size-fits-all approach, how to figure out what may actually be helpful for your individual child, and why the order in which therapies and supports are introduced can matter.

But one of the biggest takeaways from this conversation has less to do with a specific therapy and more to do with the relationship itself.

The way we approach our kids matters. The trust, connection, attitude, and intention between a child and the adults supporting them can become the foundation for everything else.

This is part one of our conversation with Jonathan. In part two, we dig deeper into ThriveGuide and how families can begin building a more individualized roadmap for support.

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What happens to our kids when we’re not here anymore?

It’s one of those questions most of us would rather shove into a drawer and deal with… never. But eventually, we have to talk about it.

This week, Tash and Shannon sit down with licensed financial advisor Mary McDirmid, who specializes in helping families raising children with disabilities. Mary is also a mom herself, and her own family’s experience with a rare disease is what led her into this work.

We talk about planning for long-term care, understanding benefits, protecting eligibility, sibling roles, building a support network, and creating a roadmap that doesn’t leave everyone scrambling later.

And maybe most importantly, we talk about how to start.

Because financial planning for a child with disabilities can feel overwhelming, emotional, and ridiculously complicated—but doing something is better than avoiding it altogether.

You do not need to have the next 40 years figured out today. You just need a place to begin.

Find Mary here: https://allneedsplanning.com/

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Nobody prepared us for periods.

Not the hygiene. Not the sensory challenges. Not the school logistics. Not the mood changes. Definitely not the trial-and-error involved in figuring out what actually works for your child.

This week, Shannon and Brittney sit down with Ashley Lewis to talk honestly about what puberty has looked like with her autistic daughter, Presley.

We get into the practical stuff—period management, showers, bedding, bras, school support, gynecological care, and the little tricks that can make this stage feel more manageable.

But we also talk about the bigger picture: helping our daughters through huge physical and emotional changes while giving them grace, respecting their boundaries, and figuring it out right alongside them.

There is no perfect way to do this. Sometimes it’s just patience, extra mattress protectors, and a whole lot of learning as you go.

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Six kids. All six on the autism spectrum.

Yeah… we had questions too.

This week, Brittney and Tash sit down with Laura Wampler to talk about what it has really looked like raising a house full of neurodivergent kids—from searching for the right diagnoses and fighting for support at school to navigating therapies, crisis moments, and figuring out what actually works for each individual child.

But Laura’s story didn’t stop with her own family.

Those years of learning, advocating, and building the right team eventually led her to help other families walking the same road. We talk about that transition, why lived experience matters, and the importance of finding people who truly understand this life.

Laura also shares the story behind Unite & Uplift, a grassroots conference created specifically to give moms of neurodivergent kids something we desperately need: connection, support, and a little room to breathe.

Because sometimes finding your people changes everything.

Mothers Together Website: mothers-together.com

Unite and Uplift Conference: uniteuplift.com

Laura’s IEP Coaching Website: https://laurawampler.com/

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What if some of the behaviors we’re constantly trying to manage are actually clues?

This week, Brittney and Shannon sit down with Dr. Brandon Crawford to talk about functional neurology, neuroplasticity, sensory regulation, and what may be happening underneath some of the behaviors we see in our autistic kids.

We also get into a conversation that matters a lot to us: helping our kids function more comfortably in the world is not the same thing as trying to “cure” who they are.

And then, naturally, we turn the spotlight on ourselves. Because apparently running at 99% capacity while drinking coffee and calling it self-care is not an actual nervous-system regulation strategy. Rude.

We talk caregiver stress, sunlight, sleep, cold exposure, slowing down, and why taking care of ourselves may matter more than we’d like to admit.

There’s a LOT in this one. Take what feels useful, stay curious, and—as Brittney reminds us—please do not leave this episode believing you have to change seventeen things about your life by tomorrow.

Note: This episode is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. We’re sharing one professional’s perspective and encourage you to do your own research and consult with your child’s healthcare team before making changes to care or treatment.

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This week, Brittney shares a family update: one son is finding his independence, while another’s cancer diagnosis has brought a whole new set of decisions and emotions.

We talk about what it’s like to get hard news, care for a child with complex needs, and accept help when you’re used to holding everything together. It’s an honest conversation about fear, support, and figuring out the next step as you go.

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Twenty-five years ago, Daniella Mini moved to the United States with her young family searching for answers and support for her son, Diego.

Now Diego is an adult, and Daniella joins us to talk about what life looks like on the other side of childhood—the transitions, the hard work, the acceptance, and the ongoing process of helping an autistic adult build as much independence as possible.

Because parenting doesn’t magically stop at 18. It just changes.

Daniella’s story is full of honesty, humor, hope, and a reminder that this journey really is a marathon, not a sprint.

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This week, there’s no guest and apparently no boundaries either.

We’re asking each other the invasive questions—from bad habits we’d absolutely do again and things we have no business being good at, to questionable Google searches, personality traits we may be interpreting a little generously, and the people or places that bring out our worst selves.

We also get into weird compliments, things we’re proud to have quit, and somehow attempt to sum up our entire week in three words.

Basically: oversharing, laughing at ourselves, and finding out just how well we really know each other.

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This week, we’re joined by Morgan and Sadie from the Mildly Crushing It podcast! We talk about the kids behind the diagnoses, finding your people, and the mix of joy and grief that can come with raising children with special needs.

We also get into friendships, ABA therapy, the extra hurdles families face when resources are far away, and why advocating for your child can feel like a full-time job. There are plenty of laughs along the way, because sometimes you just have to laugh with people who get it.

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This week, we’re hearing from the dads! Shannon and Tash sit down with Joel Sheagren and Carl Young for an honest conversation about fatherhood, fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), and its overlap with autism.

Joel and Carl share what they’ve learned while raising children with complex needs, how they’ve adjusted their parenting along the way, and why support and community matter so much. We also talk about the differences between FASD and autism—and why more families need to understand FASD.

Website: embracing-neurodiversity.com

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In this episode, Andrea Moriarty shares her inspiring journey as a mother of twins, one of whom has autism, and how she navigated the challenges of early diagnosis, therapy, and supported living. Her story highlights the importance of family roles, resilience, and the power of community and self-care. In this episode, Andrea Moriarty shares her inspiring journey as an autism mom, highlighting the power of community, humor, and adaptive strategies. Discover how her family creates meaningful experiences and advocates for inclusion, all while maintaining joy and resilience.

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Back-to-school season is here, and apparently none of us are allowed to ease gently into a new chapter. In this episode, we’re catching up on all the transitions happening in our families—from Gracie and Ruby heading back to school to preparing older kids for college and life outside our homes. (We’re fine. Everything is fine.)

We talk about balancing school, ABA therapy, and downtime—and how hard it can be to know when to push for more support and when to let our kids simply be kids. We also get into parent involvement, communicating with teachers and therapy teams, and the ongoing challenge of making sure everyone is actually on the same page.

And because school transitions are never the only transitions, we also chat about sleep struggles, the emotional reality of an approaching empty nest, planning for the holidays, and even how our grocery-shopping habits are changing as our families grow.

Basically, everyone is growing up, everything is changing, and we have some feelings about it. Come catch up with us as we talk through the exciting, exhausting, and unexpectedly emotional parts of entering a new season.

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Erin Clarelli is back for round two! Erin is an occupational therapist specializing in whole-body apraxia, and this conversation had us looking at behavior—and ourselves—a little differently.

We talk about learning to respond instead of react, navigating disagreements with your spouse about behaviors and teaching skills, potty training, and observing what the body is communicating without automatically assigning intention.

Erin also challenges us to examine our own beliefs, reactions, and motivations. Because supporting our kids requires patience, teamwork, and the ongoing challenge of regulating ourselves while helping our kids regulate too. Because apparently, we’re all a work in progress.

Find Erin here:

https://erinclarelli.myflodesk.com/blueprint

https://www.sunrisetherapiesinc.com/sunrise-membership

https://www.sunrisetherapiesinc.com/

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This week, we’re all over the place—in the best way. Shannon is trying to figure out where behavior ends and anxiety begins, Tash is getting ready for her big England adventure, Jean is talking women’s heart health, and Brittney is bracing for the wild world of middle school.

Basically: parenting, travel, health, transitions, and the usual “are we doing this right?” conversations. Come hang out with us.

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In this episode, Bonnie Nofsinger shares expert insights on planning and executing vacations for families with neurodivergent members. We discuss challenges, strategies, and tips to create enjoyable, inclusive travel experiences.

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In this lighthearted episode, we’re talking all things summer—favorite foods, travel plans, bucket-list adventures, beach days, concerts, festivals, and the vacations we still can’t stop thinking about.

We share some of our best summer memories, talk about the sensory chaos that can come with a day at the beach, and dream about future adventures—including whether we could actually survive something like Coachella. We also check in on what summer really looks like for families, especially caregivers and anyone living somewhere that feels approximately seven inches from the sun.

It’s a fun, nostalgic, very real conversation about making the most of summer, staying connected, and finding joy wherever we can.

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In this episode, Jean and Tash sit down with Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, to talk about the work the organization is doing to support individuals with disabilities and their families. Kendra shares how she found her way into the nonprofit world, why advocacy and collaboration matter so much, and the personal stories that continue to drive her work. It’s a hopeful and heartfelt conversation about creating stronger support systems—and the real difference they can make for families.

 

IG: eastersealshq 

Linkedin: Easterseals, Kendra Davenport

https://drive.google.com/open?id=1UUHOmhQ7JclckXif11pwRTtWO60_yYSS

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In this episode, Shannon and Brittney talk about one of those feelings no one really wants to admit out loud: jealousy.

After reading a listener email about feeling jealous of families with neurotypical kids, they unpack what is often underneath it all—grief. Grief for the conversations you wish you could have, the experiences you pictured, and the version of parenting you thought you were going to get.

They also share their own experiences with acceptance, mental health, supportive friendships, and the way grief can sneak back in when you least expect it. This is an honest conversation about giving yourself grace, finding people who truly get it, and knowing that having hard feelings does not make you a bad parent.

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 In this episode, we’re joined by Erin Clarelli, a neurodiversity-affirming occupational therapist, to rethink the way we understand behavior, communication, and motor challenges in autistic and disabled children.

Erin explains why behavior is often a form of communication—especially for nonspeaking individuals—and why interpreting that behavior can feel so complicated for parents. We discuss the power of connection, narration, and slowing down long enough to understand what a child may be communicating through their body.

We also explore apraxia and the misconception that it only affects speech. Erin explains how motor-planning differences can impact the entire body, including a child’s ability to begin, stop, or complete an action—even when they understand exactly what is being asked of them.

The conversation also takes an honest look at the limitations of the insurance-driven therapy model and why progress cannot always be measured through checkboxes, compliance, or isolated skills. Erin shares how scaffolding, individualized support, parent coaching, and a more holistic approach can help children participate without placing unnecessary pressure on them.

Most importantly, we talk about empowering parents to trust what they see, ask better questions, and become active partners in their child’s care. Therapy should not be about fixing a child. It should be about understanding their needs, supporting their autonomy, and helping them feel safe and successful in their own body.

 

Find Erin at:

Website: https://www.sunrisetherapiesinc.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunrise.therapies

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In this episode of Moms Talk Autism, we’re talking about the kind of friendship that can make a hard day feel a little less impossible. After receiving a listener email from someone who wants to better support her friend raising an autistic child, we dive into what helpful support can actually look like—and why simply showing up without judgment can mean more than people realize.

We talk about navigating outings, communicating needs, building trust, and how friends can offer help without making a parent feel like a burden. We also get honest about the mental load that comes with autism parenting, from therapy decisions and packed schedules to the constant pressure to make the “right” choices for your child.

Plus, we discuss trusting your gut, finding consistency without burning everyone out, and remembering that parents deserve care too. Because supporting your child matters—but so does supporting yourself.

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Today Brittney and Tash welcome Sara Intonato, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and a mother of two. Sara shares her unique parenting journey, focusing on her experiences with her non-speaking son, Rocco, and the importance of self-care for parents. The conversation delves into the significance of community support, the impact of yoga on mental health, and the discovery of spelling as a communication method for non-speakers.

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No interviews. No heavy topics. Just moms sharing the funny, chaotic, and surprisingly relatable moments that come with raising autistic kids. From food battles to sensory adventures and everything in between, this episode is full of laughs, real-life parenting stories, and the reminder that you're never alone in this journey.

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

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

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Understanding autism isn't a one-size-fits-all journey. While many are exploring the spectrum, it's crucial to recognize that every child is unique. Rebecca Fontanetta, a neuropsychologist and a mom navigating the world of neurodivergence, shares her insights on the importance of individualized care. From her early experiences working with children with autism to her evolving views on interventions, her story emphasizes the need for tailored approaches in supporting families.

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In this episode, we’re getting real about boundaries (the kind we know we need but don’t always set ). We talk through our own experiences with grief, support, and how community has shifted—from in-person friendships to more online connections.

We also dive into balancing advocacy, friendships, and actually having time for ourselves. Friendships look different in every season, and finding your people—whatever that looks like—matters more than ever. Consider this your reminder that taking care of yourself isn’t optional.

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In this episode, Jean and Tash sit down with Juliana and Kelly from the Refrigerator Moms to talk about the messy, funny, emotional reality of parenting neurodivergent kids. From waiting room friendships and unsolicited advice to autism stigma, self-care, and finding your people in real life (not just on Instagram), this conversation is full of honesty, humor, and the kind of support only other autism moms truly get.

Refrigerator Moms Podcast

 

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In this episode, we’re talking about autism “levels” — what they mean, what they miss, and why autism is anything but one-size-fits-all. We share our own experiences with diagnoses, support needs, and how every autistic child can look completely different.

We also talk about moving beyond the deficit-focused view of autism, recognizing strengths alongside challenges, and why community and understanding matter so much in this journey. 

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Parenting can be a rewarding journey, but when it involves neurodivergent teens, it brings a unique set of challenges and triumphs. In this post, we dive into the insights shared by Jessica Shaw, a seasoned journalist and host of the podcast "Everyone Gets a Juice Box," who offers a fresh perspective on navigating this complex landscape. From understanding the nuances of raising children who think differently to finding community support, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Everybody Gets a Juice Box podcast

Understood.org

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In this episode, we’re diving into the very overwhelming world of autism therapies and treatments—because why are there 500 options and zero clear answers?

We talk about how we figure out what actually makes sense for our kids (not just what everyone on the internet says we “should” be doing), why every child’s needs are different, and how our family dynamics play a bigger role than people realize.

We also get into the pressure we feel after diagnosis, what advocacy actually looks like in real life, and how we choose therapies that align with our family values—not just what looks good on paper.

We break down helpful frameworks like the readiness model and the PACT approach to make all of this feel a little less like throwing darts in the dark.

And as always, we share our real-life experiences—the wins, the struggles, and everything in between.

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Today we share the highs and lows of family time, including navigating divorce, shifting family dynamics, and the constant juggle of support, patience, and flexibility. We also swap ideas for creating inclusive, meaningful celebrations—like a movie theater birthday that actually works for everyone.

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

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In this episode, we’re answering some of your real-life parenting questions—from “When did your child start talking?” to how we actually handle sickness in our homes (because it’s never simple over here). We share what’s worked, what hasn’t, and the little adjustments we’ve had to make along the way when it comes to communication and caring for our kids when they’re not feeling their best.

We also open up about navigating diagnosis grief—what it looked like for each of us and how we’ve moved through it over time. And because we have to laugh to survive… we wrap things up with the one thing we will absolutely NEVER do again. It’s honest, relatable, and full of those “same” moments.

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In this episode, we’re joined by Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell from the Brave Together Podcast to talk about something we all need—real support. We dive into the power of community for caregiving moms, from connection circles to in-person retreats, and how finding your people can truly change everything. If you’ve ever felt isolated, overwhelmed, or just in need of a space where you’re seen, this conversation is for you.

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Today we share a fun, real-life update filled with everything from emergency snack stashes and trip planning to home projects, car ride chaos, college prep, and the excitement of the Scholastic Book Fair. They also touch on more meaningful updates, including health progress, the ongoing juggle of IEP meetings, and insights from Temple Grandin, leading into a deeper conversation about puberty, anxiety, and learning styles in autistic individuals—reminding us, as always, to focus on strengths, keep a sense of humor, and turn challenges into understanding.

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Today Tash sits down with Tom D'Eri to talk about growing up with his autistic brother and how that experience led him to create Rising Tide Car Wash. What started as a personal journey turned into a powerful mission to create meaningful job opportunities for individuals with autism.

Tom shares insights on why structure matters, how the right first job can make a huge impact, and what true inclusion in the workplace actually looks like. It’s a real and inspiring conversation about building something purposeful, supporting the autism community, and rethinking what’s possible when given the right environment.

INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/risingtidecarwash/

X: http://twitter.com/RisingTideWash

FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/RisingTideCarWash

WEBSITE: https://www.risingtidecarwash.com/

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A little Moms Talk Moms today! Come to find out…

1. What do you think of before you fall asleep and what do you dream about? 
2. Favorite animal at the zoo? 
3. Are people ultimately kind or selfish?
4. The best trait you got from your mom and dad? 
5. When was the last time you cried, and why? 
6. Has there ever been a time when you said, “This is it! It’s never better than this!

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In this episode of Mom’s Talk Autism, hosts Brittney and Tash welcome Lori Rogers, who shares her journey raising her son Craig, who is on the autism spectrum. Lori reflects on the early days after diagnosis, navigating challenges in the education system, and how Craig’s communication evolved over time. Together, they discuss the importance of presuming competence, advocating for supportive environments, collaborating with care teams, and supporting siblings along the way. This conversation highlights the power of community, resilience, and maintaining hope while parenting through the complexities of autism.

 

LINKS:

Instagram 1: https://www.instagram.com/loriarogerspositiveactivity/ 

Instagram 2: https://www.instagram.com/positiveactivitytm/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070371891843

LinkedIn 1: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-rogers-ma-7a285b5/ 

LinkedIn 2: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positive-activity/ 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6C_rB34QvfPpZkB67fzkqQ

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@positiveactivity  

Positive Activity: https://www.positiveactivity.net

 

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In this episode, we’re unpacking the difference between inclusion and true belonging — and why they’re not always the same. We talk about the pressure to include at all costs, the reality of navigating social situations with our kids, and why sometimes thoughtful exclusion is actually protective, not harmful.

We also get honest about autonomy, regulation, and the constant trial-and-error of finding what actually works as our kids grow. This conversation is about making intentional choices, building real community, and giving yourself permission to reevaluate along the way — because belonging should feel safe, not forced.

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In this episode, we sit down with school principal and autism grandma, Jennifer Kaufman, to talk about what it’s really like when your grandchild is diagnosed — and how that shifts expectations, roles, and relationships overnight.

We talk about:

• The emotional pivot from “traditional grandparent” to active support system



• How to give (and receive) advice without blowing up family dynamics



• The awkward-but-necessary financial conversations



• Why empathy matters so much in schools — and what educators need to understand



• Water safety and why it cannot be an afterthought



• The pressure grandparents sometimes feel to “fix” things



• And the reminder that parenting (and grandparenting) is not a competition

This conversation is honest about the tension that can show up in families — especially when everyone loves the child but doesn’t always agree on how to help.

Whether you’re a grandparent trying to support your family, or a parent trying to figure out how to include extended family in your child’s autism journey, this episode gives practical insight and a whole lot of grace.

Because it truly takes a village — but villages need communication.

Want to watch our recordings? Join us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/MomsTalkAutism

 

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Today we’re talking about the overwhelm cycle — how it starts, why it keeps looping, and what it actually looks like when you’re parenting neurodivergent kids, juggling puberty, appointments, social stuff, marriage, work, hormones, and your own identity.

We also talk about what disrupting the overwhelm cycle actually means. Not eliminating stress. Not becoming a zen monk. But noticing the pattern and interrupting it before it takes you out.

Because overwhelm isn’t just about too much on your plate.
It’s about carrying too much alone.

If you’re tired, stretched thin, and wondering how to stop living in reaction mode — you’re not crazy. You’re probably just stuck in the cycle.

Let’s disrupt it.

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Greer grew up in the US but moved across the pond to build her family and life abroad. Two kids and a lot of doctor and therapy appointments later, Greer has become a leading voice for autism advocacy and glimpses into neurodivergent life while living in England. We talk about the diagnosis process, what schools and therapies are and are not providing for her family, and what she is doing to change things for the better. Greer has her own podcast with a similar vibe and feel to ours. Check out the links below and listen to The Unfinished Idea.

The Unfinished Idea Podcast

Instagram

Tiktok

Website

Want to get a hold of us? Email Moms Talk Autism: hello@momstalkautism.com

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Updates from the hosts, our thoughts on how 2026 is going (not great, thanks so much), and our first MTA Book Club selection. Come read with us and let us know what you think. Also, we talk about our latch key childhoods, L.A. Gear light up shoes, and how Tetris made us who we are today. Good times.

 

Wintering by Katherine May

The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday

MTA Book Club: The Healing Power of Resilience by Tara Narula

Want to watch our recordings? Join us on Patreon:

https://www.patreon.com/MomsTalkAutism

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Explicit Content Warning: This episode is not for young ears.

In this conversation, we sit down with sex educator Amy Lang, M.A. to tackle a topic many parents avoid: sex education for neurodivergent kids.

Amy shares her story, along with practical tools for talking about puberty, consent, boundaries, and healthy relationships. Together, they explore why using correct language matters, how to normalize sexual feelings (without shame), and the unique challenges our kids face when it comes to navigating social interactions and sexuality.

It’s a real, raw, and important conversation designed to empower parents to show up prepared—and to replace fear with confidence.

Resources:

https://birdsandbeesandkids.com

https://www.facebook.com/birdsbeeskids

https://www.instagram.com/birdsbeeskids/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOXz2W3cq8F71MslLXn8apA

The Tom And Ellie Series

https://amaze.org/

https://www.corysilverberg.com/you-know-sex

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In this episode of Moms Talk Autism, we sit down with Sarah Kernion, a mom of three—including two autistic kids—to talk about the beautifully messy reality of motherhood. Sarah shares her honest experience navigating family dynamics, raising neurodiverse children, and learning (sometimes the hard way) why caregiver self-care is not optional.

We talk flexibility in parenting, letting go of perfection, and the power of community support when things feel overwhelming. This conversation is a reminder that being present matters more than doing everything “right”—and that none of us are meant to do this alone.

Come for the real talk, stay for the solidarity.

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In this episode, Jean and Brittney sit down with Jacob Blaeser from Ventures ATL to talk about employment opportunities for autistic and neurodiverse adults—and why the traditional workforce often gets it wrong.

We discuss the unemployment gap in the neurodiverse community, how Ventures ATL approaches direct employment and support, and what redefining success in the workplace really looks like. Jacob also shares insights on hiring for potential, navigating the transition to adulthood, and the importance of community, communication, and human connection at work.

This conversation is honest, hopeful, and a reminder that meaningful employment is possible when inclusion is intentional.

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In this episode, we’re looking ahead to 2026 and talking honestly about what we want more of (health, growth, adventures) and what we’re actively working on letting go of (burnout, guilt, and doing everything the hard way). We dive into personal and community goals, the role of accountability, and why self-care isn’t optional—even when family life is loud, busy, and occasionally unhinged.

We also catch up on what’s new in our lives, from big purchases and learning new skills to navigating family dynamics and preparing for some major changes ahead. Along the way, we reflect on embracing change, finding balance between responsibility and fun, and how the podcast itself is evolving as we head into 2026 with a renewed focus on everyday life, community conversations, and showing up as our real, imperfect selves.

Basically: goals, growth, a little chaos, and a lot of intention. Let’s go, 2026.

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