Educating, Supporting and Empowering the Autism Community.
Episodes
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
Thursday Feb 29, 2024
Hey everyone,
In our last episode, my husband and I discussed how our family introduced a medical-grade probiotic called Neuralli into our home exactly one year ago. Since then we have experienced significant positive results and we wanted to share our experience. One today's show, I actually will be speaking with the Chief Science Officer from Bened Life Dr. Noelle Patno.
Bened Life is on the leading edge of microbiome and health science innovation, producing effective and safe microbiome solutions for unmet neurological and mental health needs.
PS128, the sole probiotic strain in Bened Life’s Neuralli Medical Probiotic, has been the subject of 12 human clinical studies across four categories - neurodevelopment,neurodegeneration, mental health, and exercise performance. It was shown to help balance serotonin, dopamine, cortisol, and other molecules that affect mood, mind,and movement, while also helping regulate gastrointestinal tract health.
Noelle Patno, PhD, Bened Life’s chief science officer, discusses these key points:
- L. plantarum PS128 is not available in fermented foods like sauerkraut or yogurt. According to global definitions of fermented foods, they should contain at least 1million CFU of microbes per gram of food.
- In preclinical models that had lowered levels of dopamine or serotonin in the brain, oral administration of L. plantarum PS128 resulted in increasing levels ofserotonin and dopamine in the brain.
- L. plantarum PS128 has been shown to benefit autistic individuals in four clinical trials.
Gut-brain axis communication is bidirectional – meaning the gut and brain talk to each other vs one-way communication – which helps regulate gut function as well asoverall behavior – including mood, stress, sleep, focus, and more.
Extra interventions may be needed for those who aren’t getting everything they need through diet, sleep, and exercise.
That’s where Bened Life and PS128 come in.
SPECIAL NOTE: THIS IS NOT A PAID SPONSORSHIP, ONLY A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
THIS IS NOT A PAID ADVERTISEMENT OR SPONSORSHIP. THIS IS A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.
Susan Mills and her husband Cameron Mills have a candid conversation about a new medical-grade probiotic their son (and occasionally Cameron) is taking with amazingly positive results. www.BenedLife.com has a probiotic Neuralli that is being used by many for neurological disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Parkinson's Disease, and ADHD. Listen to how it is helping to improve certain qualities of life.
FROM BENED LIFE:
"The trillions of microorganisms inside your gut play a crucial role in healthy gastrointestinal function and in your overall health. Scientists have long known about the link between the microbiome, inflammation and the immune system. Now we know that a healthy microbiome can also lead to a healthier brain. L. plantarum PS128 in Neuralli can have neurological health benefits without ever leaving the inside of your intestine - bringing the body into balance, naturally. Unlike pharmaceuticals, which can overpower the body's natural functions, Neuralli works WITH your body and your microbiome to gently adjust imbalances."
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Thursday Dec 07, 2023
Have you ever had a private celebration when discovering something about your child, but then had to discipline them? Susan Mills and her husband Cameron Mills lovingly share a funny story about a time when their son disobeyed his teacher.
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Monday Oct 23, 2023
Is there such a thing as a "standardized student"? What happens when your child on the spectrum takes a standardized test, but fails to understand questions that are more "gray" in nature? Listen as Susan Mills and her husband Cameron discuss why changes need to be made at state levels for neurodiverse students.
Sunday Dec 18, 2022
Sunday Dec 18, 2022
Hi, friends! Thanks so much for joining me on this podcast! I feel like each time I do a podcast now, I’m apologizing for not being consistent in the recordings. I was doing so well before COVID, and even early on during the pandemic. Then what happened? Well, virtual school happened, my work life was thrown upside down on its head, and I started experiencing extreme anxiety. I’ve battled with anxiety for nearly all of my life, but everything really just imploded. I had to take a step back to focus on getting healthy, being there for my family, and keeping my business afloat. It was a lot, but I feel like we’re on the other side and I’ve been able to start getting back into the swing of things…and have even added a few more projects to my plate. Not sure my mother agrees with this, but these projects are ones that feed my soul, and give me energy…so that’s good, right? So, I wanted to take some time to do a reintroduction and an update on what has actually been going on. There are so many exciting things happening, and I really do feel like there has been a shift in mindset.
I live in Kentucky with my amazing husband Cameron, and the beat of my heart, my son, Alex. He’s NINE years old now and in the third grade. That sounds so unreal. I’m not sure where all the time is going!
Several months ago, My Autism Tribe hosted an event at one of our local hotels in the community. It was just a fun event, but while having fun, we also educated our community about the autism spectrum, and Alex even took the microphone, introduced himself, and we shared some back-and-forth Q&A. I had absolutely no expectations on how the evening would go, but there were so many great questions asked, relationships that were developed, and Alex was amazing! So that kinda kicked off our reintroduction with the nonprofit. Then, another amazing thing happened!
We were connected with a local sheriff's department wanting to provide autism training to their officers. So, after a few meetings and several months later, My Autism Tribe partnered with them to create a video series that can be uploaded into their system so that officers can watch them in their spare time. Why is this important? Well, you can’t take all the officers off the road at the same time to conduct in-person training, so with the videos, all of them can still participate in the training…which is absolutely critical in the education and awareness of how first responders need to provide service in emergency situations with those on the spectrum. And because of this partnership, we have also now been contacted with other surrounding counties to provide the same. And if any of you listening know of someone that would like more information on how we created the video segments, reach out and let us know!
On a slightly different path, but with the passion coming from the same place and the inspiration being my son, I’ve also been working on creating a children’s book series. It all started about four years ago, when I wrote a couple of stories for my son to help explain differences and challenges he was experiencing. I was told by several people that I should write more, so I did. Well, this eventually led to the creation of this series called DinoSprout, and is published by Rainbow Sparrow Books. Through the DinoSprout book series, the overall mission is to provide children, parents AND teachers/therapists with resources that cultivate healthy conversations. I really wanted a way to provide children with a mirror and a window into the special needs world. A mirror would provide children with special needs to see and learn about themselves, and a window would provide children without certain special needs to learn about others. And it’s an A-Z collection of dinosaurs! So you have the first two books, “Stella, the Sweet and Spunky Stegosaurus”, and Toby, the Terrific and Talented T-Rex”. Stella is nonverbal, Toby has sensory processing challenges, and other dinosaurs in the A-Z are also woven through each story. Drew the Dyrosaurus has ADHD, Brody the Brachiosaurus has a brace on his leg, Alex the Allosaurus has anxiety, Hadley the Hadrosaurus has food allergies. You get the idea. I researched illustrators for over a year, and then my husband finally said, “Why don’t you illustrate them yourself??” I do paint, but my paintings look nothing like a children’s illustration, but I thought I would give it a whirl. I wanted the books to be fun, simple, with drawings that children could easily connect with. Think of Pete the Cat. My son loved those books, and illustrations. So, over a year later we have released the first two books on Amazon, AND I’ve even partnered up with a Ph.D. professor Sarah Hawkins-Lear to create educational activities and curriculum that teachers can incorporate into the educational environments. It’s something that I’m not only extremely proud of, but am also so passionate about. We need to start these conversations at a young age! I’ve visited several classrooms, and it’s amazing to see the children have these AHA! Moments. Hearing things like “I know someone that has to use headphones”, “My sister can’t say words”, “Sometimes I don’t know how to make friends”. I’ve literally left classrooms and have cried. These children are yearning for connections, and they really do want to be inclusive! It’s the crazy world around us, and sadly some of the home environments, that turn this behavior in other directions. So, we need to reach them young, and reach them when they are hungry for positive relationships! The books are for ages 3-8ish, so if you or anyone else would like more information, check ‘em out! Stella and Toby are both on Amazon, or you can go to RainbowSparrowBooks.com for more information as well. I’m planning on having Sarah, the professor that I’m working with, on a podcast as well so she can share how they are being integrated. She’s a wealth of information, and such an amazing human being. I’ll provide some links in the show notes.
Thank you so much for allowing me to join you today. Reach out to me on social media, send me a note, ask a question. I really do want to be with you on your journey, and I would love to have you as part of my tribe. We all need one. Love each and every one of you. Be well, and I’ll speak with you soon!
Books Currently on Amazon:
- Stella, the Sweet and Spunky Stegosaurus:
- Toby, the Terrific and Talented T-Rex:
Thursday Jun 16, 2022
Thursday Jun 16, 2022
EPISODE 70: The Building Blocks Program is an individualized behavior program to help support children with autism. Marshall Pediatric Therapy offers both a comprehensive and collaborative approach to your child's therapeutic treatment with a focused-based model.
Thursday Nov 11, 2021
Thursday Nov 11, 2021
EPISODE 69: Thanks so much for joining us today! My husband, Cameron Mills, will be co-hosting with me as we discuss the most recent big four-letter word in our home this year. It's not what you think. It's R-A-I-N, and all the challenges it brings to us personally.
A trip to an amusement park, how my son is "stretching" himself to grow stronger in dealing with his challenges - we give examples and tell stories.
Be sure to check out the My Autism Tribe website at www.MyAutismTribe.org in addition to our social platforms with Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Wednesday Nov 03, 2021
Wednesday Nov 03, 2021
EPISODE 68: Welcome to My Autism Tribe, an organization of advocates that are educating, supporting and empowering those in our communities. We are one voice made stronger. I'm your host, Susan Mills.
Let's talk about the elephant in the room. We haven't done a podcast in awhile. We've essentially been surviving during Covid, but we wanted to get back in the game. My husband, Cameron Mills, joins me on this episode.
Check out MyAutismTribe.org for more information, and be sure to follow us on social platforms Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Thanks so much for listening, and we look forward to connecting with everyone again!
Monday Jan 11, 2021
Monday Jan 11, 2021
EPISODE 67: Remarriage with a Child on the Spectrum
With husband, Cameron Mills
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! Welcome back to My Autism Tribe. It’s been awhile since my last podcast. Many of you have been following my family’s journey for a while, so you know many of the struggles, as well as the celebrations, we have experienced over the last couple of years. This episode will feature a very special guest, my husband. From dating, to engagement, to marriage, to homeschooling during the pandemic, we talk about it all. I hope you enjoy listening to this episode, as much as we did recording it. Thanks so much for tuning in!
SEGMENT:
My husband and I met for the first time over a year ago. We started out as friends, hanging out in group settings, and started dating last October of 2019. Dating after divorce took a bit of time for me, and with me being a super protective mama, I had my standards set pretty high…some might say unreasonably high. But this man, my husband, still leaves me in awe. He’s amazing, and I’m excited to introduce him to you. Please give a warm to my husband, Cameron!
CONCLUSION:
I admit that I was skeptical about ever finding someone after my divorce. I truly never thought there would be anyone that would be a teammate with me, and would love my son as I do. No one would ever be good enough…but I was wrong. So very wrong. Cameron is my person, and I’m so thankful to have him at my side, helping me to navigate this crazy journey of parenthood. Thank you for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and for embracing my husband. Cameron, I love you. Thank you for choosing to share your life with Alex and me.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Cameron Mills Ministry:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cameronmillsministries
Cameron Mills Radio:
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cameronmillsradio
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cameronmillsradio/
Twitter - Twitter - https://twitter.com/cameronradio
Cameron Mills (personal):
Twitter - Twitter - https://twitter.com/CameronMillz
Thursday Jul 16, 2020
Thursday Jul 16, 2020
EPISODE 66: Behavioral Health Therapy for ASD
With Sean Inderbitzen
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! Welcome back to My Autism Tribe. We’ll be speaking with Sean Inderbitzen on today’s show. He’s a mental health clinician who is on the autism spectrum, and reached out a couple of weeks ago because he wanted to share his voice. It makes me so happy when people reach out to me – it truly does. I want to make sure that everyone is able to share their voice, because that’s how we learn, how we expand and stretch ourselves, and at the end of the day – accept one another regardless if our views and opinions may sometimes vary from others. Thanks so much for listening!
SEGMENT:
Sean was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18, and is now a practicing behavioral health therapist. He’s so passionate about helping his clients, and letting others know about the importance of having counseling services available to people who have autism. He notes, however, that in a study 43 out of 44 clinicians are not comfortable in counseling patients on the spectrum. It’s pretty special that Sean has this personal experience as a way to relate and empathize with those lives that he touches. Please welcome Sean to our show!
CONCLUSION:
“The process of therapy for clinicians who work with individuals on the spectrum requires a unique subset of therapeutic skill that is not always taught in graduate training. While it’s important to utilize all of the common microskills (like showing empathy, active listening, open-ended questioning) with the ASD population, it’s also important to recognize these individuals may have an additional set of needs for the therapy room. For example, they may not have the cognitive capacity to follow metaphors and/or analogies that are often used in therapy.” Providing continuing professional development for clinicians will help increase the number of competent professionals in providing these appropriate services, and I’m so happy that individuals like Sean Inderbitzen are advocating. Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll see ya soon!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Email: seabindie@me.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYJdX4NCous
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYgqa_FbTok
Friday Jul 10, 2020
Friday Jul 10, 2020
EPISODE 65: NEURODIVERSITY IN THE WORKPLACE
With Joseph Riddle
INTRO:
There are really important skills that people with autism have, that make them, in some cases, the best employees you could have. This is something that small businesses could benefit from, and is already something that many large corporations are already using to their advantage. Today, we’re speaking with Joseph Riddle, the Director of The Neurodiversity in the Workplace team, a dedicated group of talented individuals who work tirelessly for the people they serve. Thanks so much for listening!
SEGMENT:
Because of certain traits of autism, individuals with autism often have trouble getting past the interview stage for a job or maintaining a position once they are hired. Joseph Riddle has led a team to design and partner in implementing hiring programs for neurodiverse individuals. Companies such as SAP and their Autism at Work program, Dell, and Bank of America have participated in hiring programs allowing the creation of a network of employers and talented individuals on the spectrum. These companies, with support from Joe and his team, are leading the way in demonstrating to the American workforce that neurodiverse talent is both valuable and productive.
CONCLUSION:
Few resources have been allocated to understanding autistic adults. According to a 2017 report from the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee, only 2 percent of autism research funding goes into understanding the developmental disorder for the adult population. Autism isn’t just something for young individuals, and more needs to be done to propel and prepare this population. With organizations like Neurodiversity in the Workplace, we can not only become inspired, but also determined to make the workforce a better and more welcoming environment for our loved ones. Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll see you soon.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Email: neurodiversity@nitw.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeurodiversityInTheWorkplace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversityintheworkplace/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/4Neurodiversity
Friday Jun 19, 2020
Friday Jun 19, 2020
EPISODE 64: ENHANCING LIVES FOR FAMILIES OF AUTISM
With Rachelle Vartanian
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! Thanks for connecting with this week’s podcast featuring Rachelle Vartanian. She’s the founder and president of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center, a former special education teacher, and mother of a teenager on the autism spectrum.
If this is your first time here, welcome! If you are a returning listener, thanks for coming back! We truly do appreciate it. Be sure to check us out on your social platforms, and if you’re enjoying this podcast, we’d love your rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts – it helps make our voices stronger. Let’s get started!
SEGMENT:
The Living and Learning Enrichment Center is based in Northville, Michigan and their mission is to help individuals with autism and related challenges reach their full potential in work, relationships and in the community. They have summer camps, art and music classes, clubs, social and professional skills groups. It’s really impressive what they’re doing, and I’m excited to speak with the founder today – Rachelle. Let’s give her a warm welcome.
CONCLUSION:
The unemployment rate for individuals with autism is upwards of 90%. With training like that provided by the Living and Learning Enrichment Center, job training, real world job experiences can be achieved for those individuals with autism and other special needs. It’s truly special what these organizations are doing, and it’s my hope that more organizations will begin doing the same. Thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll see ya soon!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Website: https://www.livingandlearningcenter.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingandlearningenrichmentcenter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingandlearningcenter/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/livelearncenter
Thursday Jun 04, 2020
Thursday Jun 04, 2020
EPISODE 63: Co-occurring Conditions in Autism
With Brad Ferguson of Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders at the University of Missouri
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! Welcome back to My Autism Tribe. I hope everyone is hanging in there. School is out, so no more of the Non-Traditional Instruction in our home, however, we are going a little crazier as the days go on. Regardless, thanks for checking back in, and if this is your first time, welcome. I hope you find a piece of your autism advocacy here.
Today’s guest is Dr. Brad Ferguson, an Assistant Research Professor in the Departments of Health Psychology, and Radiology at the Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders at the University of Missouri. I wonder if he has all of this on a business card (laugh). I’m really pumped about the information that he’s going to share today, so please stay tuned.
Don’t forget to check us out on our Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter platforms, and if you’re enjoying this podcast we sure would love a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts. It helps make our voices stronger. Thanks for listening!
SEGMENT:
Dr. Ferguson has been conducting research in autism for over 12 years, and his main research focus over that period of time has been the study of co-occurring conditions in autism, mainly gastrointestinal problems and problem behaviors. His goal is to find out why many autistic individuals have co-occurring conditions so that they can be addressed, which will ultimately lead to increased quality of life. Let’s welcome Dr. Ferguson to our show.
CONCLUSION:
There are so many organizations out there that are doing amazing research on autism-related topics – many of them that I’m just discovering. These people are devoting their lives to make sure we are making positive strides, gaining more information than we had yesterday, in order to make improvements in the lives of those we love so much. Thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll talk to you soon!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheThompsonCenter/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mutcautism/
Friday May 22, 2020
Friday May 22, 2020
EPISODE 62: EXCEPTIONAL MINDS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM
With guest Corinne Levitt
INTRO:
Hello, and welcome back! Today we’re speaking with Corinne Levitt, a special educator and author of a new book called “Exceptional Minds Across the Autism Spectrum”. Her background in learning disability psycholinguistics, and the arts has enabled her to “teach to the talent” while encouraging her students to discover and explore their potential. She’s a fascinating woman, and I’m excited for her to share her story. Stay tuned and follow us on our social media platforms to engage or ask questions. Thanks for listening!
SEGMENT:
Corinne Levitt wrote her latest book in recognition of the need to promote the important role an enriched educational experience can have on the lives of students who stand to benefit the most from best educational practices. Let’s welcome Corinne to our show today.
CONCLUSION:
As Corinne has stated, “more than money, resources, or even teaching methods, it is our attitude toward those who seem different that influences our expectations and limits learning opportunities for growth and development. It’s our attitude and understanding that shape our vision. But attitudes and mindsets can change, and when that happens, we can move closer to understanding the struggles and learning challenges of individuals with exceptionalities.” I hope this podcast finds you and your family safe and healthy. Keep up the great work, and I’ll talk with you soon!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
www.teachexceptionalminds.com
Friday May 15, 2020
Friday May 15, 2020
EPISODE 61: CBD FOR AUTISM
With guest Dr. Rachna Patel
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! First and foremost, I want to thank everyone out there who has been patient with me these last couple of months. It turns out that working a 9-5 job, homeschooling my son, and running a nonprofit with these podcasts is a lot harder than I thought. Just know, that I’m doing my very best to bring you the most relevant information, from people within the autism community, to the best of my ability.
Today, I’m speaking with Dr. Patel, who is a world-recognized expert in the field of Cannabinoid Medicine. CBD is something that we hear about all the time, but maybe perhaps, we still have very limited knowledge on. Stay tuned to hear Dr. Patel share information on CBD products, what to expect when using CBD products, while also dispelling some of our fears that we may have. Thanks for listening!
SEGMENT:
I’ve personally looked into CBD products, not only for myself, but also for my son. I’ve had conversations with many families on their use of CBD. Dr. Patel is with a company called Doc Patels, a company that produces CBD products made from industrial hemp plants derived on American farms which produce 100% 0.00% THC Broad Spectrum CBD products through their patented process. Their team of 30 engineers, scientists, a psychiatrist and even a dentist, along with their manufacturing partner, consist of Doc Patels. Let’s welcome Dr. Patel to our show.
CONCLUSION:
As families are looking for natural, healthy ways to help their loved ones, and even themselves, I hope you find this information helpful in your decision-making process. Every path is different, but whatever path you choose, know that we are here to support you along the way. Thanks so much for listening, and I’ll talk to you soon!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
www.DocPatels.com
Tuesday Apr 21, 2020
Tuesday Apr 21, 2020
EPISODE 60: AUTISM ISN’T BLACK AND WHITE
With Erin Clemens
INTRO:
Hi, everyone! As you know, April is Autism Awareness month, as we continue to raise autism awareness, and promote autism acceptance and inclusion in our communities (although it may look a bit different now), I wanted to feature yet another autism advocate. This week’s episode features guest Erin Clemens. Erin is an awesome young woman on the autism spectrum. When she’s not working, she’s volunteering and helping others. She graduated from college last year, and is interested in pursuing a career in dog training. She’s an absolute pleasure to speak with, and full of so much knowledge and insight. Stay tuned to hear her story.
SEGMENT:
Today, we’re providing a stronger voice to another powerful autism advocate, Erin Clemens. She’s a public speaker, and author of a book called “I Have Asperger’s”. Let’s give a warm welcome to this delightful young woman.
CONCLUSION:
It’s important that we listen to those voices that can provide personal experiences. There are varying opinions, and often times, these opinions may not align with another person’s opinions. That’s ok, because autism isn’t black and white…it’s a spectrum…and we are all on different journeys, and I’m so glad that Erin was able to share her’s. Thanks so much for being a part of my army…My Autism Tribe. Stay healthy, stay safe, keep your chin up, and I’ll see you here next week!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR ERIN:
Website: https://erinclemens.wixsite.com/erin-clemens
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erin.clemens.58
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AspergerSadie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspergersadie/
Wednesday Apr 15, 2020
Wednesday Apr 15, 2020
EPISODE 59: A CONVERSATION WITH MY SON
INTRO:
Hi everyone! Welcome to this week’s podcast. Hope you guys are hanging in there and staying healthy. I’ve definitely had small moments of anxiety these last several weeks, but am trying to stay positive and trying to keep a routine as much as possible. As many of you, I’m working my 9-5 job from home, while homeschooling my son, and producing this podcast. The last couple of episodes, you might have even heard my son in the background as I’ve been recording from my kitchen table instead of my makeshift and more sound-proof studio off of my bedroom, otherwise known as a closet. Lots of glamour here folks. Try to remain calm. So, as I’ve recorded these podcasts out in the open, my son has become more and more curious as to what in the world I’ve been doing. We’ve had our own little recording sessions with the microphone where he sings his favorite song, talks in different cartoon voices. It’s super cute, and so I thought I might try to actually interview him, and I use the word “interview” extremely loosely. So, bear with us, and thanks for listening!
SEGMENT:
There was a point in time where I didn’t know if I would ever truly know my son’s voice. I remember actually walking through a store one time and hearing a parent tell their child to shut up, and it took every ounce of mama bear energy in me to not go over to them and tell them our family’s story. And maybe I should, but I didn’t. Instead, my heart broke knowing that I would do absolutely anything to hear my son say anything, and here was this parent telling their child they didn’t want to hear what they had to say. Anyway, as I’ve said before, the My Autism Tribe platform was started because I made a promise to my son that I would be his voice and that voice I wanted to become stronger. Fast forward several years later, and my son is speaking, and there hasn’t been one time…I don’t exaggerate, not ONE time where I wished that he would not speak. His voice is the most beautiful thing I’ve ever heard, and so without further ado, I’d like to introduce you to my son, Alex.
Hi, honey. I thought that maybe everyone would like to get to know you better, so I’m going to ask you some questions, ok?
- What’s your name? Alex
- What’s your favorite color? Red
- What’s your favorite food? Bacon
- Do you have a favorite dinosaur? Brachiosaurus
- Who’s my favorite boy in the whole world? Me
- Would you like to sing a song? What about that song that you made up the other day? The Scoop song? (sings)
CONCLUSION:
Thank you for sharing this experience with me. I know this isn’t the lengthy podcast that I’m used to doing, but I thought, “Why not? Why not take advantage of this quarantine to do something that is new?” Thank you for sharing this special moment with me, and for listening to the sweet sound of my son’s voice. A sound that I will never once take for granted, but will do my best to make stronger. I hope everyone out there is staying healthy at home. Thanks for listening, and I’ll see you next week!
Wednesday Apr 08, 2020
Wednesday Apr 08, 2020
EPISODE 58: Autism as a Stress Adaptation
With Lori Hogenkamp
INTRO:
Hi there, everyone! Welcome to this week’s podcast episode featuring autism advocate and consultant Lori Hogenkamp. Lori is on the autism spectrum, and has studied neuroscience and stress-related behaviors for over 20 years. Her love of science drives her passion for understanding the complex patterns of abilities and disabilities of those on the autism spectrum. Stay tuned to listen to her incredible story, and so much great information from her research.
If you’re enjoying this podcast, can I ask you of a favor? Could you rate and review My Autism Tribe wherever you listen to podcasts. It allows us to make our voices stronger by extending our reach. Send me a message if you want, and let me know if there is a subject that you’d like to hear about. Don’t forget to check us out on all of the My Autism Tribe social platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
SEGMENT:
Lori Hogenkamp explores the idea “Autism as a Stress Adaptation” and publicly speaks to parents, adults, teachers and healthcare professionals about using advanced physics to develop Stress Models to help understand and create innovative solutions for autistics, their environment and their families. She uses her knowledge to develop innovative Stress Management programs and seminars for professional, education and health organizations.
CONCLUSION:
I hope that everyone out there is staying safe and healthy. If you need someone to listen, if you have a question or concern, we’re here for you. Let us know how we can help…how I can help. I know that everyone is doing a great job, even though we may not feel like it sometimes. Keep up the great work, and I’ll see you next week! Be well.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/peripheralminds?lang=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-hogenkamp-44205410
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeripheralMindsofAutism/
Blog: https://peripheralmindsofautism.com/presentation/
Tuesday Mar 31, 2020
Tuesday Mar 31, 2020
EPISODE 57: ADJUSTING TO A NEW NORMAL
INTRO:
Hi there! Welcome to this week’s My Autism Tribe podcast. To be honest, I’m struggling to remember what day it is, and who I was before this COVID19 quarantine existed. I’m almost positive that I’m a day late in posting this podcast, and 100% sure that I have a pile of clean clothes still in the dryer from 3 days ago that I have yet to fold and put away. The struggle is so real. I hope everyone out there is adulting at least a little better than me right now. Stay tuned as I share how we’re trying to find our new normal.
And if you have a couple of minutes and aren’t watching the latest episode of Tiger King, or Frozen 2 for the 100th time, might you give our podcast a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts? We could sure use some cheering up right about now. I kid…no, but seriously. It would be greatly appreciated.
SEGMENT:
It has been a little over two weeks since I’ve been working 100% from home, and since my son has been homeschooled. And I’m just being real…I’ve been struggling with feelings of anxiety as a single mama in keeping it all together. The first week was SUPER tough, for both my son and myself. We picked up a packet of homework from my son’s school, and I pulled all my files from my office so I could migrate under my home’s roof. I thought at the time that this wouldn’t be so bad, and it’s not because it could be a lot worse…I know that…but the anxiety starts settling in when I begin thinking about the unknown timeline. How long will we be in quarantine? How much will my son regress? How in the world am I going to work at full capacity, while also homeschooling my son, while also maintaining some of his therapy sessions, and while also making sure that my son doesn’t feel neglected because I’m not able to spend the amount of time that I would like with him? So many questions!
Other parents and I have been having conversations about this, and there’s one common theme. We all feel like we’re failing…every single day. Even though this temporarily makes me feel better about my current situation, it also makes me sad and frustrated. Now, more than ever, we parents are being tasked we rise above all doubt in our parenting efforts. We’re taking on roles that we don’t have degrees or certifications for. We’re wearing multiple hats all day, changing them up as needed to fill the title that we’ve been given in any given hour. We’re more than parents. We’re teachers, therapists, playmates. I woke up this morning and again felt anxious about fulfilling my roles today, and I heard these words. “Susan, the more you feel anxious, the more you feel stressed, the more you feel in despair, the less you will be able to give.” I felt a calmness come over me. I’ve been able to approach today with a new set of lenses. Maybe this is just me making the adjustment to my new sense of normal. So, I made a list of things that I miss…not because I want to dwell on the things that I can’t have right now, but to give me something to look forward to.
- Taking my son to the park. There are only so many days that I feel like these walls will be standing. That at any moment, my son will morph full-on into a flying squirrel. If not him, most undoubtedly me. Our space is beginning to feel extremely small.
- Seeing the faces of other family members…actually their faces…not on FaceTime…not on Zoom…but being able to touch their sweet faces and give them kisses.
- Hanging out with friends. Meeting up with them for dinner at our favorite restaurants, and getting my son together with his friends for play dates.
- Going to the movies. I’m a big fan of Netflix, and Hulu, and Disney Plus…but there’s something that I’m craving about going to the big screen and catching the latest flick.
- Hanging out at the pool. Well, we’re still in our early spring in the U.S. so the pools aren’t open yet, but I sure do hope that when they do open, we will be out of quarantine. Call me crazy, but I love the smell of chlorine paired with fresh cut grass. Surely, I’m not the only one.
- Going to the zoo and the aquarium. If my son could move and set up residence at either of these two places he would, and even if my home will feel like a zoo in another few weeks, it will hardly be the same. He’s already making the itinerary of what exhibits he wants to see first. To see his smile when we get to go back – it will make all of this crazy stuff worth it.
I understand that most of these are first world problems. There are so many people in our world that will never get to experience these. Which makes me believe that we are truly “resetting our priorities”. Don’t you think that maybe we took so much for granted? We spent so much time behind the windshield going to work, taking our children to therapy, and then back to work, and then to other appointments…maybe we just needed to slow down and truly learn to appreciate all that we have. We don’t NEED many things to live, and we truly don’t need many things to be happy. My son is a perfect example for me. He struggles sometimes, and yet he continues to have the most gorgeous smile…one that can light up any room.
So…I’ll continue to do my best and give myself grace when I feel like I’ve failed. I’ve learned that I’m not a very good Kindergarten teacher. I’m not the best therapist for my son, but you know what? I’m a mom, who loves her son so much, and at the very least, I will make sure that my son is happy, healthy, and feels love every single day. That, I feel, is what I can control the most. The rest…well…this time will pass and as cliché as it is, it will make us stronger. I truly believe that.
Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe. Hang in there, and I’ll see you next week!
Tuesday Mar 24, 2020
Tuesday Mar 24, 2020
EPISODE 56: Helping Families with Special Needs During the COVID-19 Crisis
With Amy Kelly
INTRO:
As we all are very much aware, COVID-19 is affecting everyone’s lives around the world. COVID-19 is a new strain that was discovered in 2019, and has not been previously identified in humans. There is so much information out there; some is factual and some is misleading. This leaves us with a lot of questions, but I believe it’s important to speak on how it might be affecting the autism community specifically. How do we help families who live with autism and disabilities? How do we help them cope with everything during this trying time? How do we explain this current situation to our children? Stay tuned to listen to today’s guest as she offers some insightful information that may benefit you and your family.
SEGMENT:
Today’s guest is Amy Kelly. She’s the mother to Danny, Annie, and Ryan. Her daughter Annie is diagnosed with moderate to severe autism, verbal apraxia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and general anxiety disorder. Amy is the National Director of Family Engagement for Devereaux Advanced Behavioral Health, one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare, and she also serves as a family representative on several special-needs boards in the community, locally and nationally. In addition to all of this, she participates with other patients and families in efforts supported by the American Board of Pediatrics Foundation to address children with special needs and the importance of quality care. She’s quite the busy lady, and sounds like she’s gonna to be able to share some really good stuff with us. Let’s welcome Amy!
CONCLUSION:
Please know that I’m thinking about everyone out there. I’m lifting you up, sending virtual hugs, high-fives, fist bumps…you name it. Now more than ever we have to be in this together. It’s an emotional time for everyone, and I do hope that if you need someone to listen that you please reach out. Send me a message on any of our social platforms, send me an email. I want to make sure that all platforms are open and available to you. If I can’t personally assist you, I’ll make sure that I find someone that can. You’re not alone. You never have been, nor will you ever be. Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe. Hang in there, and I’ll see you next week!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DevCareers
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/devereux/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/DevereuxCEO
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrF_lQGwNvQHuqQ7xcSE0Gg
About Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health
https://www.devereux.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=helping_families
Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is one of the largest and most advanced behavioral healthcare organizations in the country. They have a unique model that connects the latest scientific and medical advancements to practical, effective interventions in the treatment of behavioral health.
They were founded in 1912 by one of the first pioneers in the field, Helena Devereux. Today, they are a national nonprofit partner for individuals, families, schools and communities, serving many of the most vulnerable members of our society in areas of autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, specialty mental health, and child welfare.
Informed by the latest advancements in science and medicine, they combine evidence-based interventions with compassionate family engagement to help change lives. Their programs are offered in hospital and residential, community, and school-based settings.
They include:
- Comprehensive Assessment, Diagnostics and Measurement to support data-driven care
- Evidence-based Treatment & Special Education
- Transition and Independent Life Services
- Family Education and Professional Training
- Research and Innovation to advance the field
- Advocacy, Public Awareness and Prevention