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Adulting with Autism

Adulting with Autism
Author: April Ratchford MS OT/L
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Ā© 2024 Adulting with Autism
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šļø Adulting with Autism ā 1.9 MILLION DOWNLOADS & GROWING! š
https://buymeacoffee.com/adultingwithautism
Navigating adulthood as an autistic individual comes with unique challenges and triumphs. Hosted by April Ratchford, an autistic occupational therapist, this podcast is your go-to resource for independent living, career growth, relationships, and self-advocacy.
š” Featuring Exclusive Interviews with Leading Experts & Advocates:
š Dr. Robert Melillo ā Neurodevelopmental expert & author (Disconnected Kids).
š Amanda Ralston ā Founder of NonBinary Solutions & neurodiversity advocate.
š Thomas DāEri ā Co-founder of Rising Tide Car Wash, a social enterprise empowering autistic individuals.
š Shell Mendelson ā Career coach helping neurodivergent professionals find fulfilling careers.
š Sam Mitchell ā Host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, sharing powerful personal insights.
š Doug Blecher ā Autism advocate and creator of impactful neurodiversity content.
š Steve Gallegos ā Speaker and mentor focused on empowering individuals with disabilities.
š McCracken Poston Jr. ā Attorney in the landmark Truman Show Delusion case.
š Upcoming Interviews:
š Dr. Matt Zakreski ā Clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity.
š Dr. Foojan Zeine ā Psychotherapist & expert in emotional wellness.
Join 1.1M+ listeners worldwide! Tune in every Wednesday & Saturday for expert insights, real-life stories, and strategies for thriving as an autistic adult.
š§ Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!
š© Follow for updates & behind-the-scenes content!
š„ #AdultingWithAutism #Neurodiversity #AutismPodcast #1MillionDownloads #AutisticVoices
š New Episodes Every Wednesday & Saturday
š Follow, Subscribe & Listen:https://feed.podbean.com/adultingwithautismpodcast/feed.xml
š¢ Letās Talk! Connect with us on Instagram & YouTube:https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism
Want to be a guest on Adulting with Autism? Send April Ratchford a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1708097947800879cbdd654ca
https://buymeacoffee.com/adultingwithautism
Navigating adulthood as an autistic individual comes with unique challenges and triumphs. Hosted by April Ratchford, an autistic occupational therapist, this podcast is your go-to resource for independent living, career growth, relationships, and self-advocacy.
š” Featuring Exclusive Interviews with Leading Experts & Advocates:
š Dr. Robert Melillo ā Neurodevelopmental expert & author (Disconnected Kids).
š Amanda Ralston ā Founder of NonBinary Solutions & neurodiversity advocate.
š Thomas DāEri ā Co-founder of Rising Tide Car Wash, a social enterprise empowering autistic individuals.
š Shell Mendelson ā Career coach helping neurodivergent professionals find fulfilling careers.
š Sam Mitchell ā Host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, sharing powerful personal insights.
š Doug Blecher ā Autism advocate and creator of impactful neurodiversity content.
š Steve Gallegos ā Speaker and mentor focused on empowering individuals with disabilities.
š McCracken Poston Jr. ā Attorney in the landmark Truman Show Delusion case.
š Upcoming Interviews:
š Dr. Matt Zakreski ā Clinical psychologist specializing in neurodiversity.
š Dr. Foojan Zeine ā Psychotherapist & expert in emotional wellness.
Join 1.1M+ listeners worldwide! Tune in every Wednesday & Saturday for expert insights, real-life stories, and strategies for thriving as an autistic adult.
š§ Listen now on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube!
š© Follow for updates & behind-the-scenes content!
š„ #AdultingWithAutism #Neurodiversity #AutismPodcast #1MillionDownloads #AutisticVoices
š New Episodes Every Wednesday & Saturday
š Follow, Subscribe & Listen:https://feed.podbean.com/adultingwithautismpodcast/feed.xml
š¢ Letās Talk! Connect with us on Instagram & YouTube:https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism
Want to be a guest on Adulting with Autism? Send April Ratchford a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1708097947800879cbdd654ca
142Ā Episodes
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š„ Ever dreamt of quitting the 9-to-5 grind and radically rewriting your life? Meet Jamie Gantt ā former corporate climber turned world-traveling coach, speaker, and soon-to-be author of Becoming Myself. In this soul-stirring episode of Adulting with Autism, Jamie unpacks what it means to burn it all down to build a life rooted in purpose, especially as a neurodivergent woman reclaiming her voice.
š§ We talk:
Why burnout is your bodyās wisdom, not failure
Redefining success outside neurotypical expectations
Why journaling is one of the most powerful tools for healing
How to honor your rhythm when the world moves too fast
š” Whether youāre neurodivergent, neurocurious, or just plain exhausted from being everything to everyone, Jamieās story offers a map back to your real self.
⨠Mentioned in this episode:
Jamieās coaching & speaker offerings ā https://www.jamiegantt.com
Upcoming book Becoming Myself (preorder link soon!)
š Letās connect:
Follow Jamie on IG: @radicallyalive
Jamie's website: Radically Alive Coaching
Follow the podcast: @adulting_autism
Subscribe & review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen š§
š§” Your transformation starts now. Press play, take notes, and donāt be afraid to burn what no longer fits.
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys, hey! Itās Aprilāyour favorite autistic OT and host of Adulting with Autism, the podcast that believes life skills are sexy and your home should feel like peace, not pressure.
In todayās heart-expanding episode, weāre joined by Helen Sanderson, the UKās leading clutter therapist and author of The Secret Life of Clutter. Helen brings years of therapeutic insight to explore how our outer environments reflect our inner worldsāespecially for those with autism, ADHD, and trauma.
Whether itās the laundry chair judging you or a garage full of āIāll-get-to-it-laters,ā Helen helps us reframe clutter as a story of emotional protection, grief, and overwhelm. She shares:
š§ Why clutter is rarely lazinessāand often a trauma responsešļø How to begin decluttering without shame or sensory overloadš¤ Tips for managing shared spaces when your partner⦠just doesnāt get itš± Why neurodivergent-friendly homes must supportānot stressāthe nervous system
⨠Featured Resourcesš The Secret Life of Clutter ā Grab Helenās book here https://amzn.to/3GU9TNSš ļø Explore Helenās decluttering kits & sanctuary-making tools at helensanderson.com
š§© Connect With Us & Support the Show!⨠Follow the podcast on Instagram: @adulting_autism⨠Follow April: @adulting_autismš Join the newsletter for episode alerts, freebies & behind-the-scenes: Sign Up Here
š² Subscribe, rate & leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotifyāit helps others find our neurodivergent-friendly space and keeps this mission going.
So grab your drink of choice (no judgment), and letās welcome Helen Sanderson to the Adulting with Autism podcast.Letās clear the clutterāin our homes and our hearts. š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, beautiful soul! š Ready for a raw and powerful conversation that will inspire you to show up as your authentic self?
In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we sit down with Reverend Jocelyn Jonesāauthor, speaker, ordained minister, and founder of Faith on the Journeyāas she takes us on a transformative journey through faith, identity, emotional healing, and the courage to remove the mask.
š¬ Topics We Cover:
Breaking free from societal and cultural masking
Navigating life as a Black woman with autism
Healing childhood trauma and confronting generational pain
Reclaiming your identity through Christ and self-awareness
Growing your emotional intelligence and learning to set boundaries
This is for every listener who's ever felt misunderstood, pressured to perform, or disconnected from their true self. Whether you're neurodivergent, navigating grief, or rethinking your faithāyou belong here.
š Grab Jocelynās Bookš Breaking the Power of the Mask ā Amazon Affiliate Link
š Download Her Free Healing Workbookš JocelynJJones.com
ā Support the Podcastš Buy Me a Coffee
š Stay Connected:š§ Subscribe: Adulting With Autism on Apple, Spotify, Podbean & moreš² IG: @adulting_autismš² Follow Jocelyn: @jocelynjjonesofficialš Website: www.jocelynjjones.com
⨠Don't forget to rate, follow, and share this episode to help others on their healing and identity journey. Your story isnāt overāit's just getting real.
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys, hey ā happy Wednesday! Iām April, your favorite autistic OT and host of Adulting with Autism ā the podcast where life skills are sexy, healing is real, and neurodivergent voices finally get the mic. Whether you're a parent guiding your autistic young adult or you're that young adult figuring it out one meltdown and meme at a time, this is your judgment-free zone to laugh, learn, and level up. š§ š¬
In todayās episode, weāre diving deep with Frank Healy, one of only 100 people on the planet diagnosed with hyperthymesiaāaka he remembers every single day of his life since age six. Yep. Every. Single. Day. From '60s Batman episodes to heartbreaks and healing, Frankās memory is like Google Calendar with emotional receipts.
šļø What we unpacked with Frank:
How to release emotional baggage tied to traumatic memories
Why healing your past matters more than hiding it
How to break free from the victim mindset and reclaim your narrative
The science of memory, self-talk, and mental wellness
Why journaling is still free, effective, and totally underrated (seriouslyājust try it)
If your brain feels overloadedāin a good wayāyouāre not alone. ⨠Letās keep this neuro-spicy conversation going.
š” Mentioned in this episode:
š Heal Your Memories, Change Your Life ā Support the show by using our Amazon affiliate link here
ā Love the podcast? Fuel it with a Buy Me a Coffee
š¬ Join our free Discord community ā Where the tribe thrives! https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism
š¢ Adulting with Autism is now in the Top 50 on Apple Podcasts (Education)āletās break the top 15 and shake up a system that still isnāt talking enough about autistic adults. Smash that follow on Podbean or your favorite podcast app, and please leave a 5-star review on Apple if you cried, healed, or laughed harder than expected.
š Share this episode with someone who overthinks everything (you know the one) ā because healing doesn't mean erasing the memory, just releasing the emotion.
Until next time, keep adulting with autism, and rememberāemotions donāt expire, but healing is always an option.
Ā
⨠We believe in real stories, real conversations, and real change.If you think your journey could inspire autistic young adults or their families, Iād love to hear from you.
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Feeling stuck in fear? You're not alone ā and this episode with life coach Eric Simpson will help you break free. After leaving a high-powered corporate job in the U.S., Eric took a leap of faith (literally ā he skydives!) and rebuilt his life in the U.K., helping others conquer fear and design bold, fulfilling lives.
If you're autistic, ADHD, or neurodivergent, and fear keeps blocking your next step, this episode is your permission slip to dream bigger. We unpack how to reframe fear, shift your mindset, and take bold actionāeven if the first step feels impossible.
š§ ⨠Weāre now ranked Top 15 on Apple Podcasts in Education ā letās raise more autistic and neurodivergent voices together.
Eric Simpson's Website
https://www.facebook.com/eric.simpson.58323431
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWcA5AmAn5aWarLh5DIktyw
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmsimpson/
https://www.tiktok.com/@ericsimpsoncoaching
š„ Affiliate Bonus & Community Links:š Join our Discord for giveaways and behind-the-scenes chats: https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautismā Love the show? Fuel it at Buy Me a Coffee:Ā
š Follow, rate, and review so we can keep amplifying real conversations that matter.
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys, hey! š Itās the final day of our 30 Days of Content celebrating Autism Awareness and OT Month, and weāre closing things out with a true pioneer in the field: Dr. Robert Melillo.
Dr. Melillo is the author of Disconnected Kids, co-founder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers, creator of the Melillo MethodĀ®, and host of the Everything Brain podcast. With over 35 years of experience as a clinician, researcher, and professor, heās helped transform how we understand and support neurological development in both children and adults.
š§ In this episode, we discuss:
The brain-body connection in autism, ADHD, OCD & more
Why brain imbalancesānot damageāare often the root issue
How the Melillo Method helps retrain the brain non-invasively
What makes Disconnected Kids a timeless resource
Insights for autistic adults seeking brain-based interventions
Whether youāre a parent, caregiver, OT, or neurodivergent adultāthis conversation is full of scientific insight and genuine hope.
š Grab the updated edition of Disconnected Kids ā https://amzn.to/4jRhYkIš§ Learn more about Dr. Melilloās work: DrRobertMelillo.comš± Follow him @DrRobertMelillo on all major platformsš© Contact: drm@DrRobertMelillo.com | š (516) 398-3454š§ Listen to The Melillo Method Podcast: Everything Brain
š Join our Discord Giveaway!š¬ Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch ā https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism
ā Love this content? Support the show at BuyMeACoffee.com/AdultingAutism and help us keep going strong. Every bit goes to content, community, and caffeination. š
šļø Weāre now back to our regular scheduleānew episodes every Wednesday and Saturday.Thank you for joining us during this incredible month. Your support made this possible.
Until next time...Keep adulting. Keep growing. And keep believing in your brain. š§ š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey friend! š Ready to see how technology is transforming autism support from the inside out? In this episode of Adulting with Autism, weāre joined by Amanda Ralstonāaward-winning behavior analyst, international speaker, and founder of NonBinary Solutions and Noetic.ai.
After 25 years in traditional ABA therapy, Amanda made a bold shiftātrading clinics for code to build tech-driven, data-informed, neurodivergent-affirming tools that actually meet people where they are.
š§ What we cover in this episode:
Why Amanda left the ABA field to pursue something radically different
The problem with one-size-fits-all autism interventions
How her platforms use machine learning and clinical insight to personalize support
What families, clinicians, and neurodivergent adults need most right now
How to ethically collect and apply data to support autistic individuals beyond childhood
Amandaās work is revolutionizing how we think about autism careāmoving away from outdated models and toward empowerment through technology.
š² Connect with Amanda Ralston:š nonbinarysolutions.comš¤ Explore Noetic: noetic.aiš¼ Speaker & media: amandarlston.comš± IG & LinkedIn: @amandarlstonš° Sign up for updates on pilot programs & beta tools
š§ Also available on Spotify | Apple | Podbeanā Support the show via Buy Me a Coffeeš§© FTC Affiliate Disclaimer: This episode may contain affiliate links that support our work at no additional cost to you.
š¬ COMMENT: What would a tech-empowered autism future look like for you or your family?š LIKE if you believe innovation belongs in the autism worldš FOLLOW for weekly conversations that bridge neurodivergence, inclusion, and innovation
#AmandaRalston #NoeticAI #AutismTech #NeurodivergentSupport #AutismInnovation #NonBinarySolutions #AdultingWithAutism #DigitalHealthForAutism #ABAAlternatives #AutismCare2025 #NeurodiversityAndTech #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, friends! š Pull up a chair and get comfy, because todayās episode of Adulting with Autism is packed with inspiration and real-world advice!
Weāre thrilled to welcome Ed Roe, Program Director at CIP Bloomington. With over two decades in K-12 educationāand a personal connection to autism through his own sonāEd brings a deep, heartfelt understanding to the journey of building independent, confident lives for autistic young adults.
š In this empowering conversation, youāll discover:
The 40-year legacy of the College Internship Program (CIP)
How CIP Bloomington empowers students through life skills, academics, and career development
Tips for young adults navigating the transition to independent living
Why community integration, public transportation, and vocational coaching are game-changers for success
Whether you're a parent preparing your teen for adulthood or a neurodivergent young adult wondering whatās next, this episode is packed with encouragement, resources, and tangible steps forward. š
⨠Resources & Affiliates: š Learn more about CIPās programs: CIPWorldwide.orgš Join our Discord Giveaway! š Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive podcast merch ā linktr.ee/adultingwithautismā Support the Podcast! Fuel more conversations like this at BuyMeACoffee
šļø Reminder: We're back to new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday starting May 3rd!
š§ Love this episode? Please follow, review, and share it with someone navigating the path to independence.Together, letās empower the next generation of neurodivergent leadersāone step at a time. š
Until next time...Keep adulting. Keep believing. And keep moving forward. š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, friends! š Welcome back to Adulting with Autism! Today, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Sylvia Moore Myersāthe powerful voice behind GoldScars.com and author of Gold Scars.
After enduring unimaginable trauma, including the heartbreaking loss of her teenage son, Sylvia embarked on an 18-year healing journey thatās nothing short of inspiring. Her mission? To show us that healing isnāt about āgetting overā paināitās about growing through it and transforming our scars into pure gold. š
š§ In this powerful episode, we dive into:
How trauma physically imprints itself on the body and mind
How grief intersects with neurodivergence
Why owning, naming, and mending your scars is the ultimate act of self-love
How young adults can heal without repeating painful patterns
Whether youāre navigating grief, trauma, autism, or just working on your own healing, Sylviaās message is a reminder that brokenness isnāt the endāitās the beginning of becoming something even stronger.
⨠Resources & Affiliates: š Get your copy of Gold Scars here ā [Affiliate Link]š Learn more about Sylviaās work at GoldScars.com
š Join our Discord Giveaway! š Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch ā linktr.ee/adultingwithautismā Feeling inspired? Support the show at BuyMeACoffee
šļø Reminder: Weāre back to our regular scheduleānew episodes every Wednesday and Saturday starting May 3rd!
If this episode touched your heart, follow the show, leave a review, and share with someone who needs a little reminder that their story isnāt overāit's just getting golden.
Until next time...Keep adulting. Keep growing. And keep turning your scars into gold. šāØ
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey friend! Ever worked in a place that felt more like survival than success? Youāre not aloneāand todayās guest, Kelsey Neff, is here to flip the script.
Kelsey is the founder of By Design Consulting, author of 52 Weeks of Impact, and a former nonprofit professional who left the burnout hamster wheel to help leaders actually lead. After years of navigating toxic workplaces filled with favoritism, gaslighting, and burnout, Kelsey realized something big: she didnāt need to play the gameāshe could create a better one.
š§ In this episode, we cover:
The red flags of toxic work culture (and what to do about them)
How neurodivergent employees are often the first to feel the cracks in poor leadership
The power of conscious leadership and trauma-informed teams
Why most companies confuse āpolicyā with ācultureā
How to quit with integrity and never lose your values
Whether you're an emerging leader, neurodivergent worker, or just ready to reclaim your energy, this conversation is full of validation, insight, and practical steps to build better workplaces.
š Grab Kelseyās book 52 Weeks of Impact here ā https://amzn.to/3YbT2flš Learn more: https://bydesignconsulting.spaceš± Follow Kelsey on IG @bydesignconsulting_bdcš© Book a consult or leadership training ā drm@bydesignconsulting.space
Support the podcast with BuyMeACoffee
š Use affiliate code ADULTING10 for 10% off her digital resources!
⨠Don't forget to hit follow, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating their own leadership (or leaving) journey.
šļø New episodes every Wednesday + Saturday.Until next time... keep adultingāand keep building better. š¼š§
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, friend! š In todayās inspiring episode of Adulting with Autism, we step into a space where movement meets neurodivergent empowermentāthe incredible Autistic Wings Dance Company, a nonprofit studio founded by mother-daughter duo Amanda and Leta in Colorado Springs.
Autistic Wings isnāt your average dance programāitās a trauma-informed, sensory-aware space built by and for autistic dancers. From ballet to hip-hop, every class is designed with neurodivergent communication, learning styles, and sensory needs in mindāno masking, no pressure, just expression.
š©° What we talk about:
Why traditional dance studios often fail autistic dancers
How Autistic Wings created the first IEP-style adaptive dance curriculum
The emotional impact of being seenāand not shoved to the side
Why therapists are now recommending dance as an alternative form of expression
Their mission to expand into a larger, sensory-safe space to serve even more dancers
Whether you're an autism parent, educator, or just someone who believes in inclusion with soul, this episode will move youāliterally and emotionally.
š Support Autistic Wings Dance Company:š autisticwingsdancecompany.orgš Donate or sponsor a class to keep tuition affordable for ALL neurodivergent dancersš§ Listen to Amanda & Letaās podcast: Leta's Tap Stylesšø Follow on TikTok & IG: @AutisticWingsDance | @LetaTapStyles
ā Love the show? Fuel us on Buy Me a Coffeeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive podcast merchš² Subscribe on Spotify | Apple | YouTube | Podbean
š¬ COMMENT: What kind of support would you have loved as a neurodivergent kid?š FOLLOW for more episodes featuring neurodivergent creators, change-makers, and trailblazers
#AutisticWings #NeurodivergentDance #AdaptiveDance #AutismInclusion #LetaTapStyles #InclusiveMovement #AutismParenting #SensoryFriendlyPrograms #AutismSupport #SponsorReadyPodcast #AdultingWithAutism #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, friend! š Ever feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional shutdownāand wonder why you canāt just āsnap out of itā? In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we sit down with Dr. Foojan Zeineārenowned psychotherapist, international speaker, and the creator of Awareness Integration Theory (AIT) and the Foojan App.
Whether youāre autistic, neurodivergent, or simply navigating your own healing, Dr. Foojan offers science-backed insights into how trauma, negative self-talk, and masking affect our mindsāand what we can do to reclaim peace and clarity.
š§ In this episode, we explore:
Why rumination and addiction are common coping mechanisms for autistic adults
The real reason masking drains your mental health
How AIT reduces anxiety and depression by up to 70%
What happens when you turn your phone into your emotional regulation coach
The power of journaling, reflection, and reframingāespecially for neurodivergent brains
Dr. Foojan breaks down complex psychology into tools anyone can apply, making this episode a must-listen for therapists, caregivers, and anyone seeking emotional clarity and lasting transformation.
š² Try the Foojan App:Available now on Apple App Store and Google Playš§ Includes 31 life modules, from trauma recovery to self-esteemš FTC Affiliate Disclaimer: We may earn a small commission if you download using the links aboveāat no cost to you. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices!
š Learn more at www.foojan.comš§ Listen to Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojanš¼ Book her for trainings, workshops, or therapy consultation
ā Love this podcast? Support via Buy Me a Coffeeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merchš§ Stream on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Podbean
š¬ COMMENT: What emotion are you ready to finally process and let go of?š FOLLOW for more episodes blending real-life neurodivergence with radical healing tools
#DrFoojanZeine #AwarenessIntegrationTheory #TraumaRecovery #AutismAndMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulationApp #NeurodivergentHealing #SelfDiscoveryTools #SponsorFriendlyPodcast #AdultingWithAutism #MentalHealthTech #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, friend! š¦ In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, weāre talking all things parenting, identity, and transitioning into adulthoodāwith a twist.
Meet Hannah Bankier, career transition coach, mama of two, and founder of Birdie Launcherā¢, a movement thatās redefining what it means to be an āempty nester.ā Because the truth isāthe nest isnāt empty⦠youāre still in it.
š” In this episode, we explore:
Why āempty nestingā feels outdated and disempowering
How to embrace the Birdie Launch⢠phase with joy, not dread
Tips for helping your autistic or neurodivergent young adult gain independence
Reclaiming your own identity after full-time parenting
The 3 stages of launching: Grief, Relief, and Joyāand why theyāre all valid
Whether youāre preparing for your first launch or waving goodbye to your youngest, this conversation is full of warmth, wit, and wisdom to guide you through the next chapter.
š Connect with Hannah Bankier:š birdylauncher.comš Free Download: āFrom Empty Nest to Empowered Nextā Starter Guidešø IG: @birdylauncher | LinkedIn: Hannah Bankier
ā Support the show via Buy Me a Coffeeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa + exclusive merchš§ Listen on Podbean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
š¬ COMMENT: What does your version of āBirdie Launchingā look like?š FOLLOW for more conversations that support neurodivergent families, empowered parenting, and midlife reinvention
#BirdieLauncher #HannahBankier #EmptyNestReimagined #ParentingNeurodivergentTeens #MidlifeReinvention #LaunchingYoungAdults #AdultingWithAutismPodcast #ParentingTransitions #SponsorFriendlyPodcast #EmpoweredMotherhood #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey there, lovely listener! š In todayās episode of Adulting with Autism, weāre joined by Sol Smithāautistic author, former college professor, viral TikTok educator, and the voice behind the much-anticipated book, The Autisticās Guide to Self-Discovery (launching April 22, 2025!).
Sol shares his late-in-life autism diagnosis, the burnout spiral that followed, and the powerful road to healing, community-building, and radical self-acceptance. Whether youāre neurodivergent or neurotypical, Solās insights on unmasking, coaching, and creating identity after diagnosis are honest, practical, and deeply empowering.
š§ In this episode, we explore:
What happens after the autism diagnosis
How to shut down negative self-talk and rumination
Coaching autistic adults through shame and imposter syndrome
Finding your purpose, passions, and peace in a world thatās not built for your brain
Creating safe communities, one story at a time
š Grab Solās book:š The Autisticās Guide to Self-Discovery on Amazon (affiliate)š¢ FTC Disclosure: As an affiliate, we may earn a small commission if you purchase through the linkāat no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting neurodivergent voices!
š Connect with Sol:š www.ProfessorSol.comšµ TikTok: @ProfessorSolšø Instagram: @TheProfessorSolš Join his coaching community and get tools for unmasking and thriving
ā Love this show? Support us via Buy Me a Coffeeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive podcast merch!š§ Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Podbean
š¬ COMMENT: What part of Solās story resonated most with your own journey?š FOLLOW for more real-life convos with autistic authors, therapists, and community-builders
#SolSmith #AutisticSelfDiscovery #AutismDiagnosisAdult #NeurodivergentTikTok #LateDiagnosisAutism #AutismBurnoutRecovery #ProfessorSol #AutismBook2025 #AdultingWithAutismPodcast #UnmaskingAutism #NeurodivergentHealing #SponsorReadyPodcast #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey friends! ⨠In this episode of Adulting with Autism, Iām joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design.
Stephanie is on a mission to make every spaceāhomes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildingsāneuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe. And guess what? You donāt need a big budget or an HGTV crew to create a calming space tailored to your unique brain.
šØ What we cover in this episode:
How clutter, light, sound & smell can trigger overwhelm
The hidden toll of inaccessible spaces for neurodivergent folks
How to create a sensory sanctuary without blowing your budget
Why your nervous system deserves a home that feels safe
Her journey from artist and massage therapist to trauma-informed designer
If youāve ever felt drained by your own spaceāor never felt at home in the world around youāthis episode will open your eyes to the possibility of healing through environment.
šŖ Work with Stephanie:š practicalsanctuary.comš Free resource: Download Stephanieās starter guide to building your own sensory-friendly spacešø IG: @practicalsanctuaryš Coming soon: The Eccentric Genius Habitat Intervention: Interior Design for Highly Sensitive People ā 2025
ā Support this podcast via Buy Me a Coffeeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive merchš§ Listen on Podbean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
š¬ COMMENT: Whatās one change in your space that helped your brain feel calmer?š FOLLOW for more empowering convos around neurodivergence, self-design, and adulting your own way.
#SensoryInteriorDesign #StephanieLeeJackson #NeurodivergentSpaces #AdultingWithAutism #InclusiveDesign #SensoryAccessibility #NeurodivergentHome #HealingEnvironments #SponsorReadyContent #MentalWellnessDesign #NeurodivergentSupport #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism, where we dig deep into real experiences, big emotions, and life through a neurodivergent lens.
This episode features the incredible Thomas R. Wilsonāstoryteller, community leader, and nationally recognized advocate for neurodivergent and mental health communities. From a childhood filled with bullying and being misunderstood to becoming a beacon of empowerment for others, Thomasās journey is as inspiring as it is powerful.
š§ What Youāll Learn in This Episode:
š¬ How rage can be communicationāand not just behavior to āfixā
š§© Why behavior is a language, especially for neurodivergent youth
š ļø How storytelling and sensory-friendly spaces dismantle ableism
š” The role of empathy in transforming education, parenting, and systems
š What it means to truly build inclusive communitiesābeyond the buzzwords
Whether youāre a teacher, parent, support worker, or neurodivergent adult, this episode will challenge the way you think about emotional expression, support, and social norms.
š² Connect with Thomas R. Wilson:š https://rhcreativeadvocacyandstorytelling.net/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wilson-42762927b/š¬ Email: ndttrpg@gmail.comš¢ Follow Thomas on LinkedIn for updates on his advocacy work and events
ā Love what you hear? Support the show via Buy Me a Coffeeš§ Listen on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Podbean | YouTubeš Join our Discord ā 1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + podcast merch!
š¬ COMMENT: Whatās one way youāve learned to ālistenā differently to behavior?š LIKE if this episode helped reframe rage, advocacy, or communicationš FOLLOW for more powerful conversations from the frontlines of neurodivergent life
#ThomasRWilson #NeurodivergentVoices #AdultingWithAutism #RageIsCommunication #BehaviorIsLanguage #SensoryInclusion #NeurodiversityAndEmpathy #DisabilityAdvocacy #SponsorFriendlyPodcast #TraumaInformedCare #InclusiveCommunities #PodMatch
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey friend! If youāve ever felt burned out, overstimulated, or like your brain is doing the most when you need it to do the leastāthis episode is for you.
Today on Adulting with Autism, Iām joined by Sue DayāADHD coach, neurodivergent advocate, and founder of Pathways Forward Coachingāwho helps women and late-diagnosed adults reconnect with their strengths and redefine success on their terms.
Together, we talk about:
š„ Neurodivergent burnout and why it doesnāt always look like exhaustion
š The toll of masking and emotional dysregulationāespecially for women
š§ How ADHD and autism can overlap in ways most people donāt see
š§© Why your goals might be failing you (and how to turn them into experiments)
ā¤ļø Rediscovering your strengthsāeven if you feel like youāve lost yourself
This isnāt a productivity pep talkāitās a permission slip to slow down, reflect, and rebuild with compassion.
⨠Connect with Sue Day:
š Website: https://www.pathwaysforwardcoaching.comšø Instagram: @pathwaysforwardcoachingš§ VIA Strengths Tool: viacharacter.org
ā Support the show: Buy Me a Coffeeš§ Listen on Podbean, Spotify, Apple, and YouTubeš Join our Discord for giveaways + support from our growing community
š¬ COMMENT: What strength have you been hiding behind burnout?š LIKE if youāve ever felt like your brain was too muchāand not enough at the same timeš FOLLOW for more honest, empowering convos on neurodivergent life, healing, and unmasking
Youāre not brokenāyouāre beautifully wired. And together, weāre redefining what thriving looks like. š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys hey! If you've ever felt like youāre ātoo much,ā ānot enough,ā or constantly code-switching just to surviveāthis oneās for you.
In this energizing and empowering episode of Adulting with Autism, Iām joined by psychologist, author, and nationally recognized speaker Dr. Matt Zakreski, aka Dr. Matt. Together, we pull back the curtain on what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent adult in a world built for neurotypicals.
š§ In this episode, we explore:
š„ The hidden cost of masking and burnout for autistic and ADHD adults
š§© Why gap years, trade schools, and flexible timelines are essentialānot failures
š ļø Practical life skills and how to actually teach them
š How educators and parents can support real successāwithout pushing perfection
š” The power of letting go of āthe right wayā and embracing your way
Whether you're autistic, ADHD, an overwhelmed parent, or an ally looking to support with intentionāthis episode is packed with clarity, science, and real talk.
š Get Dr. Mattās new book ā The Neurodiversity Playbookš Order here on Amazon (affiliate link ā helps support the show at no cost to you)š Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.comš² Instagram: @drmattzakreskiš§ Listen to Dr. Mattās podcast: Nerding Out on Neurodiversity (available everywhere)
ā Like this content? You can now support Adulting with Autism via Buy Me a Coffeeš§ Available on Podbean, Spotify, Apple, and YouTubeš Join our Discordā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch!
š¬ COMMENT: Whatās one expectation youāre ready to unmask or release?š LIKE if youāve ever been told youāre ātoo muchāš FOLLOW for more unfiltered convos about neurodivergence, growth, and real-life adulting
Youāre not too muchāyouāre just right. And weāve got you. š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey friend! Ever spiral into negative self-talk and wonder why your brain just wonāt chill? You're not aloneāand youāre definitely not broken. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with award-winning psychologist Dr. Betsy Holmberg, author of the upcoming book The Unkind Mind (releasing June 1 from New Harbinger Publications).
But this isnāt your typical therapy chat. Betsyās story starts with her own depression after divorceāand a turning point that didnāt come from traditional talk therapy, but from neuroscience. š¬
What she discovered changed everything: that our harsh inner critic isnāt usāitās our Default Mode Network (DMN). And when we learn how to work with our brain instead of against it? Thatās where healing really begins.
š§ In this episode, we unpack:
What the DMN is and how it drives self-criticism, anxiety & overthinking
Why affirmations donāt work (unless your Central Executive Network is activated)
How passions, community, and purpose rewire our mental state
Why social media + burnout jobs = peak inner critic activation
Tools to manage your brainās background noise & feel at peace again
Whether youāre dealing with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or just burnout from life, this episode will help you understand your braināand take back your power.
š Grab Betsyās Book ā The Unkind Mind (out June 1):š Pre-order on Amazon(affiliate link ā helps support the show at no cost to you)š More from Betsy: https://www.betsyholmberg.comšø Follow her on Instagram: @betsyholmberg
ā Like what you hear? Support the show: Buy me a coffeeš§ Listen on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTubeš Join our Discord communityā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa + podcast merch!
š¬ COMMENT: Whatās your DMNās favorite lieāand how are you rewriting it?š LIKE and SHARE with someone who needs to stop believing their inner criticš FOLLOW for more real, science-backed convos on identity, healing, and neurodivergent growth
Until next time, keep unmasking, keep growing, and keep adulting. š
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Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autismāyour go-to space for navigating life with neurodivergence, one real conversation at a time.
In this episode, weāre diving deep into the world of college readiness for autistic students. Whether youāre a young adult on the spectrum or a parent helping your teen prepare for higher education, youāre going to love this one.
Our guest is Mindy Thornton, Director of Campus-Based Services at Marshall University, where she leads one of the most comprehensive autism support programs in the country. From academics to independent living to emotional and social developmentāher teamās approach is holistic, inclusive, and neurodivergent-affirming.
š” What We Cover in This Episode:
ā
What ācollege-readyā really means for autistic students
š How to apply to Marshallās College Program for Students with Autism
š§ Supporting executive functioning and mental wellness in higher ed
šŗļø Tuition benefits for out-of-state students in Lexington, KY and Columbus, OH
š ļø Marshallās 5 Pillars of Student Support: academic, emotional, social, independent living & career readiness
š« The CREATE Program ā a 3-week summer ātest runā for incoming students
š Mentioned Resources + Affiliates:š Learn more about Marshall Universityās College Program: https://www.marshall.edu/collegeprogramš§ Download our free College Readiness Checklist for Neurodivergent StudentsĀ ā Support the podcast: buymeacoffee.com/adultingwithautism
š¬ Some links may be affiliate links. When you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps fund content that supports families like yours. š
š Giveaway Alert!Join our Discord communityā1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive Adulting with Autism merchš§ Listen & subscribe on Podbean | Spotify | Apple | YouTube
š¬ COMMENT: What does college readiness mean in your home?š LIKE this episode if you learned something newš FOLLOW the show so you donāt miss upcoming conversations on independence, mental health, and building neurodivergent-friendly futures
Until next timeākeep growing, keep asking questions, and keep adulting. š
Support this podcast at ā https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
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