Tony Mantor: Why Not Me ? – Details, episodes & analysis
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Tony Mantor: Why Not Me ?
Tony Mantor
Frequency: 1 episode/5d. Total Eps: 224
Autism, Mental Health, Advocacy & Human Stories.
Embracing Autism/Mental Health Worldwide.
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting millions worldwide, characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Despite increasing recognition, there remains a lack of understanding and awareness about the condition.
Mental health encompasses a range of conditions impacting emotional, psychological, and social well-being, affecting millions globally. It includes disorders like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and psychosis. Schizophrenia is marked by symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, while psychosis involves a loss of contact with reality, often presenting with similar symptoms.
Despite growing awareness, stigma and misconceptions about mental health, particularly schizophrenia and psychosis, persist, underscoring the need for greater understanding and support.
From celebrating neurodiversity to breaking down stigma, we create a safe space for listeners to learn, grow, and feel seen.
Whether you're on the spectrum, a caregiver, or an advocate, join our global community for inspiring conversations and empowering resources that uplift and unite.
Tune in to embrace understanding, healing, and hope worldwide!
Together, we can create a more informed and compassionate society for individuals with Autism and Mental Illness.
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See all- https://tonymantor.com
1420 shares
- https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
1420 shares
- https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
1420 shares
- https://youtu.be/Jcr2avKrep4
3 shares
- https://youtu.be/mfsP40HNNH4
3 shares
- https://www.instagram.com/tonymantor
1424 shares
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See allScore global : 48%
Publication history
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NSSC: Voices of Change Part 1: Serious Mental Illness, Missed Care, and the Criminal Justice Gap
vendredi 1 mai 2026 • Duration 28:47
We bring together seven voices to talk honestly about serious mental illness and why families are pushed to wait for crisis before help is allowed. We challenge outdated laws, uneven state systems, and stigma while naming practical fixes that can make outpatient care real and measurable.
• mental health codes built for inpatient care in an outpatient world
• step-up assisted outpatient treatment and why earlier petitions matter
• accountability gaps when AOT lacks judge involvement
• voluntary programs colliding with anosognosia in schizophrenia
• stigma and discrimination treating brain disease differently than other medical emergencies
• early intervention standards shifting from “dangerousness” to “risk of harm”
• discharge planning and why follow-up community treatment changes outcomes
• Arizona and California as opposites on laws, funding, and hospital beds
• criminal justice and forensic systems filling the void left by civil care
• medication non-adherence, substance use, and the revolving door to rehospitalization
• recruiting and training psychiatrists and clinicians to handle the hardest cases
• families as full-time caregivers with little support and no consistent standard of care
• building statewide councils to align stakeholders and move legislation
I invite you to tap follow.
If you know someone who has a story to share, tell them to contact us at why notme.world.
One last thing, spread the word about why not me.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Dr Rachel Moseley: Autistic Voices, Challenges, Joys, and Research Empathy
mercredi 29 avril 2026 • Duration 29:02
Dr. Rachel Moseley on Autistic Suicide Prevention, Masking, Misdiagnosis, and Autistic Menopause
Host Tony Mantor in Nashville welcomes returning guest Dr. Rachel Mosley to discuss her UK-based research on autistic suicidality, self-injury, masking/burnout, misdiagnosis, and menopause.
Mosley explains that changes in autistic suicide rates are hard to track due to delayed and incomplete reporting, and cites data indicating suicide as the leading cause of death in autistic children in the National Child Mortality Database, likely undercounted due to missed diagnoses.
Autistic participants in her research emphasize suicide prevention requires systemic societal change addressing stigma, discrimination, bullying, education accessibility, employment, financial security, and healthcare.
They discuss clinicians mistaking autism for mental illness, common misdiagnosis as borderline personality disorder, the safety-driven nature of masking, and the complex emotions and relief of late diagnosis.
Moseley challenges the “lack of empathy” narrative and highlights autistic joy through passions, sensory joy, and stimming. She also presents her book, "Autistic Menopause," featuring interviews with 16 autistic people.
Show Welcome
Meet Dr Rachel Mosley
Suicide Research Update
revention Needs System Change
Misdiagnosis And Cure Myths
Mental Health And Masking
Autistic Girls And Early Diagnosis
Late Diagnosis Emotions
Empathy Myth Debunked
Autistic Joy And Flourishing
Changing Systems And Policy
Autistic Menopause Book
Final Thanks And Outro
INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild
Mantor Music BMI
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Ruth Johnston: Autism and Schizophrenia: A Mother's Fight for Change
Episode 109
jeudi 24 avril 2025 • Duration 30:55
Ruth Johnston shares her harrowing journey as the mother of an autistic son who developed schizophrenia, and how this experience drove her to advocate for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania following a family tragedy.
• Ruth's son was diagnosed with autism as a teenager, after she had already been homeschooling him for years
• Around age 13, he began showing signs of developing schizophrenia, though it took a decade to recognize the condition
• Current laws prevented intervention despite clear evidence of his deteriorating mental state
• Expert testimony revealed 5-34% of autistic individuals may develop schizophrenia as adults
• Anosognosia (inability to recognize one's own mental illness) prevents many from seeking help voluntarily
• AOT programs allow civil courts to mandate treatment before dangerous situations occur
• The "black robe effect" of a judge's order can help individuals comply with treatment
• Modern medications like Abilify can dramatically improve quality of life without severe side effects
• Patient advocacy groups often oppose AOT but don't represent those with severe schizophrenia
• Ruth founded AOT4AlleghenyCounty.com to advocate for these needed programs
To learn more about Ruth Johnston's advocacy efforts or to get involved, visit AOT4AlleghenyCounty.com or email AOT4AlleghenyCounty@gmail.com.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Episode 108
mercredi 23 avril 2025 • Duration 24:53
Angela Calzone shares how Inroads to Opportunities supports individuals with disabilities through comprehensive programs designed to facilitate meaningful employment.
The organization's business-oriented approach focuses on integration, skills development, and changing employer perceptions about hiring people with both visible and invisible disabilities.
• Inroads to Opportunities serves approximately 400 individuals annually with various disabilities
• School-to-work transition programs allow students to remain until age 21, learning practical skills
• Contract packaging operation provides real-world work experience in assembly and shipping
• Certificate programs include Serv Safe food handling and OSHA forklift training
• On-site job coaches support both employees and employers during the transition
• New Jersey employers can receive tax credits for hiring individuals with disabilities
• Vocational assessments help identify skills, interests, and suitable career paths
• Success rates for program graduates are approximately 95%
• Community integration is central to the organization's philosophy and approach
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Episode 107
mardi 22 avril 2025 • Duration 28:25
Brian Shrader, a criminal defense attorney with experience as both prosecutor and defender, exposes how the justice system profoundly fails people with autism and mental health conditions.
• Autism often leads to escalation during police encounters rather than directly causing criminal behavior
• Mental health training is virtually non-existent for lawyers, judges and prosecutors
• The system lacks procedures and resources for addressing mental health issues beyond addiction
• Mental health diversion programs have extensive waitlists while jails provide no treatment
• First responders frequently misinterpret autism behaviors as drug-related symptoms
• Public defenders and prosecutors are overwhelmed with caseloads, making individual attention impossible
• Addressing these issues requires federal and state-level policy changes
• Many legal professionals care but lack the tools and training to help effectively
Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Judge Kim Taylor:A Judge's Journey with Autism
Episode 106
lundi 21 avril 2025 • Duration 26:30
Judge Kim Taylor shares her journey as a pioneering female judge and mother of a son with autism, revealing how personal experience fueled her advocacy for autism awareness in the criminal justice system.
Her work began after learning about Sidney Templeton, a young man with autism who died in police custody due to officers' lack of understanding about his condition.
• First woman elected as district court judge in Alexander-Iredell-Davie County in 1986
• Created a task force that made autism training mandatory for North Carolina law enforcement
• Developed educational resources including "Autism in the Criminal Justice System" video
• Expanded advocacy through "Safe and Sound" committee with the Autism Society of America
• Advocating for national legislation for more uniform autism training across jurisdictions
• Emphasizes prevention and diversion programs over incarceration for those with autism
• Identifies the need for compassion and understanding in the legal system
• Won her initial election by just 75 votes across four counties
• Highlights how perspective changes when issues affect someone personally
Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me: The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Understanding Autism Through Music: An Acoustic Evening for a Cause
Episode 105
dimanche 20 avril 2025 • Duration 15:47
We broadcast live from the Nashville Palace for a special remote podcast supporting "An Acoustic Evening for Autism," bringing together musicians who share their personal connections to autism awareness.
• Jamie O'Neill describes how having a cousin with autism inspired her participation in the benefit concert
• Jamie emphasizes the importance of slowing down in our fast-paced world to accommodate different needs
• Minnie Murphy reveals her 5-year-old son is on the autism spectrum, sharing his special abilities like perfect pitch
• Minnie performs original songs celebrating individuality and seeing the beauty others miss
• Both guests praise Vanderbilt's Kennedy Center for their exceptional work in autism research and treatment
• Our guests emphasize autism shouldn't be viewed as a permanent condition but as a different perspective
• The conversation highlights how patience, active listening, and embracing differences creates understanding
Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Rita Williams: How One Woman Transformed Personal Trauma into Criminal Justice Reform
Episode 104
samedi 19 avril 2025 • Duration 27:28
Rita Williams turned personal tragedy into powerful advocacy when her spouse was unexpectedly sentenced to 10-20 years in prison, revealing deep flaws in the criminal justice system and sparking her mission to expose judicial misconduct and support others facing similar challenges.
• Former federal employee who pursued a master's in criminal justice before her spouse faced white-collar charges
• Discovered her spouse had high-functioning autism only after his incarceration, highlighting how the system fails neurodivergent individuals
• Used blogging, websites, and social media to expose a prosecutor with 18 years of misconduct, eventually forcing him to relocate
• Advocates for criminal justice reform, particularly ending solitary confinement and creating better supports for people with autism
• Works with Michigan Citizens for Prison Reform and helps coordinate legislative days to connect lawmakers with those affected by the system
• Creates resources to guide people through the legal system and protect them from predatory practices
• Emphasizes the importance of being informed about the criminal justice system before you need it
Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me, the World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Leigh Anne McKingsley: Creating Pathways to Justice for the Developmentally Disabled
Episode 103
vendredi 18 avril 2025 • Duration 28:49
Leigh Anne McKingsley shares her journey as Senior Director of Disability and Justice Initiatives for the ARC, where she oversees the National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability to address the invisibility and injustices faced by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the justice system.
• The ARC began as a parent advocacy group fighting against institutionalization of children with disabilities and has evolved over 70+ years to promote inclusion through policy work and direct support
• McKingsley's "Pathways to Justice" training brings together law enforcement, attorneys, and service providers to create community-based solutions through Disability Response Teams
• Studies show 2 in 10 prisoners and 3 in 10 jail inmates report cognitive disabilities, yet proper accommodations and understanding remain limited
• People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are 30-40% more likely to also have mental health conditions, creating complex support needs
• Misinterpretation of behaviors like stimming can lead to unnecessary criminalization when officers don't recognize disability-related behaviors
• Personal stories from those with lived experience are crucial for creating change, though "double stigma" of disability and justice involvement creates barriers
• Success often comes from asking simple questions like "What accommodation do you need?" rather than focusing on specific diagnoses
To learn more or get involved with the ARC's National Center on Criminal Justice and Disability, visit their website or contact them directly to help create pathways to justice in your community.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Judge David Fleisher: When Judges Choose Compassion Over Punishment?
Episode 102
jeudi 17 avril 2025 • Duration 28:20
Judge David Fleischer, who presides over Harris County Criminal Court in Houston, Texas, shares his groundbreaking approaches to criminal justice reform with a focus on mental health and autism awareness.
• Reforming the bail system to prevent wealth-based discrimination in courts
• Dropping conviction rates from 60% to 25% through bail reform implementation
• Creating court environments where defendants with mental health issues receive compassion and understanding
• Livestreaming court proceedings to increase transparency and public education
• Showing patience when working with defendants who have autism or mental health challenges
• Treating every defendant as a whole person deserving of both accountability and support
• Balancing public safety concerns with the need for rehabilitation and intervention
• Understanding how untreated mental health issues often lead to criminal behavior
• Providing resources to help defendants address underlying issues rather than just punishing them
• Demonstrating how transparency in courtrooms creates positive ripple effects throughout communities
Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.
The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.
Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.
Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.
Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.
Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.
https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
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