Episodes

  • Breaking Barriers: The Journey of an Autistic Playwright

    Breaking Barriers: The Journey of an Autistic Playwright
    Jan 7 2025
    Discover the unexpected truth about the impact of autism representation in theater and how one playwright is breaking barriers. Uncover the powerful story that's creating waves in education and beyond. Stay tuned for an eye-opening revelation.Matteo Esposito, a 26-year-old autistic playwright and set designer hailing from Ontario, Canada, brings a unique and personal insight to the world of theater. Through his artistic endeavors, Matteo seeks to shatter stereotypes and promote acceptance for individuals on the autism spectrum. His dedication to crafting plays that delve into the nuances of autism drives home the message of embracing diversity and celebrating differences. With a keen focus on the educational potential of theater in fostering autism understanding, Matteo's contributions to the realm of autism representation in theater are both impactful and inspiring. His passion for advocating inclusivity and challenging societal norms makes him a compelling voice in the conversation surrounding autism awareness and education.

    If you met one person with autism, you only met one person with autism. Or if you met one autistic person, you only met one autistic person. Why do we have to put people in categories when we all have? - Matteo Esposito

    Failing is a learning experience. People don't realize. A lot of people, if they haven't failed in one thing, they want to find the one thing they're good at right now. - Matteo Esposito
    • To learn more about Matteo Esposito and his plays, visit his website for additional information and updates. https://sites.google.com/view/matteoesposito/home
    • Contact Matteo Esposito for collaboration opportunities, including school tours and high school productions of his plays.
    • Explore the possibility of bringing Matteo Esposito's plays to schools and educational institutions to raise awareness and promote understanding of autism and inclusive employment.
    • Consider supporting Matteo Esposito's work by attending future productions of his plays and spreading the word about his impactful storytelling
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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • ASD, ADHD, & AuDHD: Part 2

    ASD, ADHD, & AuDHD: Part 2
    Dec 26 2024
    Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients.

    Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both in Part 2 of this series.

    Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht is a clinician in Canada and diagnosed later in life with both ASD and ADHD. Dr. Natalie will break down the similarities and differences of ASD, ADHD and AuDHD. She will also discuss strengths of each neurotype. This part 2 of our discussion.

    Some discussion points from Dr. Natalie:

    Co-occurring autism and ADHD can be experienced as

    Heightening of some autistic traits

    Navigating contradictions of opposing traits

    Here are some of the contradictions you may experience as an AuDHD:

    You thrive when there’s a set routine (autistic trait), but you struggle to plan and follow a schedule (ADHD trait)

    You get very distressed when your friend shows up late to your meeting (autistic trait), but you yourself struggle to arrive at events on time (ADHD trait)

    You find engaging in a special interest to be soothing (autistic trait), but you also need to jump between multiple interests to keep you engaged (ADHD trait)

    You are meticulous with your plans (autistic trait), but sometimes you overwhelm yourself by making an impulsive decision (ADHD trait)

    When you infodump, you have a habit of speaking “too fast” (ADHD trait), but when someone asks you an unrelated question, your responses may be delayed, or you may be unable to speak (autistic trait)

    Dr. Engelbrecht's Website:https://embrace-autism.com/author/dr-natalie-engelbrecht/
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • ASD, ADHD & AuDHD: Part 1

    ASD, ADHD & AuDHD: Part 1
    Dec 20 2024
    Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients.

    Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both?

    Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht is a clinician in Canada and diagnosed later in life with both ASD and ADHD. Dr. Natalie will break down the similarities and differences of ASD, ADHD and AuDHD. She will also discuss strengths of each neurotype. This is part 1 of our discussion.

    Some discussion points from Dr. Natalie:

    Co-occurring autism and ADHD can be experienced as

    Heightening of some autistic traits

    Navigating contradictions of opposing traits

    Here are some of the contradictions you may experience as an AuDHD:

    You thrive when there’s a set routine (autistic trait), but you struggle to plan and follow a schedule (ADHD trait)

    You get very distressed when your friend shows up late to your meeting (autistic trait), but you yourself struggle to arrive at events on time (ADHD trait)

    You find engaging in a special interest to be soothing (autistic trait), but you also need to jump between multiple interests to keep you engaged (ADHD trait)

    You are meticulous with your plans (autistic trait), but sometimes you overwhelm yourself by making an impulsive decision (ADHD trait)

    When you infodump, you have a habit of speaking “too fast” (ADHD trait), but when someone asks you an unrelated question, your responses may be delayed, or you may be unable to speak (autistic trait)

    Dr. Engelbrecht's Website:https://embrace-autism.com/author/dr-natalie-engelbrecht/
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • An ADHD Career Coach's Keys to Job Search Success

    An ADHD Career Coach's Keys to Job Search Success
    Dec 12 2024
    Shell Mendleson, an experienced ADHD career coach, brings over 35 years of expertise
    in career coaching and counseling to the table. With a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling and training under the renowned author Reid Miles, Shell has guided and impacted the lives of over 1500 clients. Her passion lies in helping individuals navigate career transitions, aligning their skills with personal aspirations and work environment preferences. Through her interactive and instructional masterclass, she empowers individuals to gain clarity on their career direction and take confident steps towards their goals. Shell's profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with ADHD in the workplace makes her an invaluable resource for those seeking effective career guidance and job search strategies.Reid reconnected with Shell Mendelson, an experienced ADHD career coach, during this episode. Shel's journey began with a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling and guidance from Richard Bowles, the author of "What Color is Your Parachute?" She has positively impacted around 200 clients through her "Your Next Career Move Masterclass," which combines instruction, interaction, coaching, and support. Shel emphasized the importance of honing in on one's career direction, aligning personal values with job choices, and seeking the necessary training for specific roles. Her insights revealed the significance of clarity, confidence, and assertiveness in the job search process, highlighting the need to become a "job developer" rather than a "job beggar." Shel's engaging narrative and practical advice resonated with Reid and the audience, providing valuable strategies for navigating the challenges of job searching with ADHD.,In this episode, Reid engaged with Shel Mendelson, a seasoned ADHD career coach, whose career counseling background and training under "What Color is Your Parachute?" author, Richard Bowles, has shaped her expertise. Shel's extensive experience, spanning over 35 years and impacting around 200 clients through her "Your Next Career Move Masterclass," underscores her commitment to empowering individuals in their job search journey. Her emphasis on aligning personal values with career choices, seeking specialized training, and fostering clarity and confidence resonated with Reid and the audience, offering valuable insights into navigating job searching with ADHD. Shel's unique approach, advocating for individuals to become "job developers" rather than "job beggars," struck a chord with listeners, providing practical strategies for success in the competitive job market.
    • To purchase Shell Mendleson's book A Course for ADHD Adults and Teens: Unlock Your Career Path, visit Amazon.com and search for the book by the title or the author's name.
    • To order the book directly from the author's website, visit the course book section and place an order there.
    • Keep an eye out for the book on other platforms such as LayFlat Books, where it will be available in the future.
    • For more information about Shell Mendleson and her work, visit her website to explore additional resources, services, and updates.
    • Consider engaging with the content in the book to gain clarity on your career path and take actionable steps towards a fulfilling professional journey.
    www.passiontocareer.com
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Empower Neurodiverse Lives: Mentoring the Mentors

    Empower Neurodiverse Lives: Mentoring the Mentors
    Dec 5 2024
    Matthew Bogenschutz, director of the Virginia Leadership Education and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program (VA LEND), shares his lifelong journey of being surrounded by individuals with disabilities, stemming from his parents' direction of a summer camp for kids with physical disabilities. This early exposure ignited his passion for supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives within their communities. Throughout his career, Matthew has worn multiple hats, from being a mental health counselor and disability advocate to now serving as a professor of social work at Virginia Commonwealth University. His commitment to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities led him to initiate the VA LEND program, addressing the critical need for qualified professionals in various disciplines to serve people with disabilities. Through his experiences and dedication, Matthew's journey exemplifies the transformative power of early exposure in shaping one's lifelong mission and purpose.,Matthew Bogenschutz, the director of the Virginia Leadership Education and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program (VA LEND), embarked on his journey of advocacy and support for individuals with disabilities from a young age. Growing up with parents who directed a summer camp for children with physical disabilities, Matthew's formative years were immersed in an environment that fostered empathy and understanding. This early exposure instilled in him a deep-seated passion for empowering individuals with disabilities to thrive within their communities. With a diverse background as a mental health counselor, disability advocate, and now a professor of social work at Virginia Commonwealth University, Matthew's unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities culminated in the creation of the VA LEND program. Through his unique experiences and dedication, Matthew's story exemplifies the profound impact of early exposure in shaping a lifelong dedication to disability advocacy and support.
    "Autism is so diverse. If you've met one person with autism, you've met one person with autism. The next person with autism who you meet may be completely different, and that's another thing that we try to impress upon people". - Matthew Bogenschutz
    • Virginia Lend program website - For more information about the Virginia Lend program and its offerings, visit their official website by searching Virginia Lend on any search engine.
    • Virginia Lend Facebook page - Stay updated with the latest news and updates from the Virginia Lend program by following their official Facebook page.
    • AUCD.org - To find out about other Lend programs across the United States, visit aucd.org and click on the Lend map in the upper left corner to access a list of all Lend programs throughout the country.
    • Matthew's upcoming book - Keep an eye out for Matthew's upcoming book about his life experiences. Stay tuned for updates on its release and availability.
    • Virginia Commonwealth University - To explore more about the educational and research opportunities at Virginia Commonwealth University, visit their official website for detailed information.
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    35 mins
  • Weighted Pillows: Deep Pressure for Dopamine and Sleep

    Weighted Pillows: Deep Pressure for Dopamine and Sleep
    Nov 27 2024
    Mikey Goldman, the founder of Quiet Mind, shared a compelling journey about his personal experience living with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. From his childhood struggles to the challenges of finding effective coping mechanisms, his story resonates with those managing similar mental health conditions. Mikey's journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the calming effects of weighted blankets. However, he found them to be cumbersome and impractical for daily use. This realization ignited a spark, leading him to develop the world's first weighted pillow. His passion for creating a solution that could benefit not only himself but also others in the neurodivergent community and those struggling with mental health issues is evident. Mikey's dedication to providing a simple yet effective tool for improving well-being and managing symptoms has resulted in a product that has positively impacted the lives of many. His genuine commitment to making a difference shines through as he continues to expand his offerings to cater to a wider audience, including the development of a kids' version to help children benefit from the comfort and support of a weighted pillow.,Mikey Goldman's journey into the world of weighted pillows began with a personal struggle with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. His poignant account of growing up with these challenges, navigating through misdiagnosis, and experimenting with medication resonates deeply with those facing similar mental health battles. It was during his quest for natural remedies that he stumbled upon the comforting effects of weighted blankets. However, he found them to be inconvenient for everyday use. This realization sparked a remarkable idea - to create a more practical and versatile solution, thus giving birth to the concept of the world's first weighted pillow. Mikey's unwavering commitment to improving the lives of individuals in the neurodivergent community and those grappling with mental health issues is truly inspiring. His relentless pursuit of a product that offers simplicity and effectiveness has led to the development of a tool that has positively impacted numerous lives. As he continues to expand his range, including plans for a kids' version, Mikey's dedication to providing a source of comfort and support remains unwavering, offering hope and relief to many.

    https://www.onequietmind.com/
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    31 mins
  • Creating A Community of Autism Allies

    Creating A Community of Autism Allies
    Nov 22 2024
    Reid Miles is joined by Tony Mantor and Katie Griswold, two individuals dedicated to raising autism awareness through personal stories. Tony, a renowned producer, delves into his unexpected journey into advocating for autism awareness, sparked by a video for first responders and a subsequent collaboration with a speech therapist for autistic children. Katie's introduction to the cause came through her mother reaching out to Tony, leading to her inspiring involvement in music and pageantry. Both guests share their unique experiences, shedding light on the diverse spectrum of autism. Through this captivating narrative, Reid aims to foster understanding and empathy, ultimately driving increased support for individuals with autism.,In this episode, Reid Miles engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tony Mantor and Katie Griswold, who bring their personal experiences to the forefront in advocating for autism awareness. Tony's unexpected journey into raising awareness began with a video for first responders and led to collaborations with individuals in the autism community. On the other hand, Katie's involvement was sparked by her mother's connection with Tony, igniting her passion for music and making a difference. Through their touching stories, Reid aims to deepen understanding and compassion for the autism community, fostering a supportive environment for individuals on the spectrum.
    • Check out Tony Mantor's podcast Why Not Me? The World to listen to more inspiring stories and interviews about autism awareness and acceptance.
    • Explore resources and support for autism acceptance and understanding through organizations like Autism Speaks and other autism advocacy groups.
    • Discover Katie Griswold's music and support her passion for spreading a positive message through her songs by following her on social media and staying updated on her upcoming releases.
    • Educate yourself and others about autism spectrum disorder to promote understanding and acceptance within your community and social circles.
    • Consider supporting initiatives and events that promote autism awareness and inclusion, such as pageants and dance studios for individuals with special needs.
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Pageants & My NeuroDiversity

    Pageants & My NeuroDiversity
    Nov 19 2024
    Today Stephanie talks with Brittany Browne about her recent diagnosis. Many topics are covered but a key point is on the vulnerability that can occur for undiagnosed women on the spectrum.

    Brittany Browne is licensed massage therapist and contestant in the 2024 Mrs. Georgia America Pageant. Brittany’s mission on this platform is to elevate the conversation around neurodiversity, with a particular emphasis on understanding and advocating for women with autism. Her journey from acquiring a Master’s degree in International Affairs at Georgia Tech to embracing holistic healing practices, including somatic and psychedelic therapy, offers a unique lens through which she views and addresses the complexities of the human mind and body. As a late-diagnosed autistic woman, Brittany leverages her personal experiences to foster deep connections and offer empathy in her therapeutic work, making her an invaluable asset to the neurodiverse community. Outside of her professional and advocacy work, she indulges in hobbies like sand volleyball, creative arts, and violin, reflecting her commitment to a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
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    58 mins