In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Grace McKendall-Thompson, a 26-year-old mother of three boys, two of whom are on the autism spectrum. Grace shares her inspiring journey of navigating young motherhood, the challenges of raising children with autism, and her unshakable determination to provide the best life for her sons, Hassan (8) and Hosea (5). From moments of tears to triumphs, Grace's story is a testament to strength, faith, and resilience.

Connect with Grace:

-Instagram: @graceisgem, @authorgraceisgem

-TikTok: 504gem

Check out her self-published book on Amazon at https://a.co/d/fJNUd4W

Tune In:

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone touched by autism, this episode will resonate with you. Grace’s journey is a beautiful reminder of the strength we find in love and advocacy.

In this heartfelt episode, Rashidah sits down with Nadia Marshall Mikel, a remarkable wife, mother, and advocate from Maywood, Illinois. Nadia shares her powerful journey with autism, which began in 2021 when her son, Josiah, was diagnosed at the age of 2. She opens up about the emotions, challenges, and moments of self-discovery that have shaped her mission.

From grappling with denial and learning to embrace her son’s extraordinary abilities to the life-changing moment when Josiah eloped, Nadia’s story is one of resilience, growth, and love. With a degree in communications from Governor's State University, she’s now using her skills to educate and empower others about early intervention and autism awareness.

This year, Nadia is embarking on a new venture, launching the Purple and Blue Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to providing health resources to families navigating autism spectrum disorder.

Connect with Nadia:

Learn more about the Purple and Blue Foundation (coming soon).

Follow her journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nadiammikell/

Be sure to subscribe to Autism for Badass Moms on your favorite podcast platform to stay updated on inspiring stories, expert advice, and a community of support for autism parents.

Follow Us:

Instagram: @theabmpodcast

Website: https://www.autismforbadassmoms.com

In this weeks episode we sit down with Debra Vines, from Maywood, Illinois, who knows too well and understands the importance of advocacy, community involvement, and partnership as her 37 year old son Jason was diagnosed with Autism at 18 months. Jason was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy as well.

In response, she founded “The Answer, Inc.”, in 2007, a NFP organization that assists parents and caregivers in navigating through the systems of social services and academic institutions by providing: case management/referral services, recreation, and resources for families with individuals having Autism or other developmental disorders.

She also knows just how important it is to sincerely give selflessly to promote and create change in the lives of persons with Autism and other disabilities. Her greatest accomplishment has been to watch the families that she has aided reach milestones that were once told would be unobtainable.

FOUNDER/CEO The Answer Inc.

CNN HERO

Erikson Institute, Fellow/Policy Writer

Co-Author “Disrupting The Status Quo

Co-Host of 1390am Brunch Bunch Show

State Appointed Autism Task Force Member

Department of Human Services Committee Member

State Appointed Department of Education for Disabled Children Member

Department of Defense (Autism), Peer Reviewer

Oak Park TED TALK

An array of many other awards and recognitions.

Connect with Debra:

-Instagram: @theanswerinc

-Facebook: @theanswerinc

Don't forget to subscribe to the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast so you never miss an episode! If you found Debra's story inspiring, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. And as always, we'd love to hear your thoughts - leave a review or join the conversation on social media.

-Instagram: @theabmpodcast

-Facebook: @theabmpodcast

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with Maggie, a single stay-at-home mom from Toronto, Canada. Maggie shares her story of raising her non-verbal daughter, Aaliyah, who was born prematurely at 29 weeks and diagnosed with autism at age 2. From navigating medical challenges like brain bleeds and asthma to coping with the emotional toll of isolation and self-blame, Maggie’s journey is one of resilience and hope.

A graduate with honors in Autism Studies, Maggie discusses her advocacy for autism awareness and her dream of creating a daycare or school for children with special needs.

If you'd like to reach out to Maggie, visit her Instagram at the link provided or follow her on Instagram for more insights and updates.

Connect with Maggie:

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simply__sweet23/

If you found Maggie's story inspiring, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. And as always, we'd love to hear your thoughts - leave a review or join the conversation on social media.

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast/

In this episode, we sit down with Aleta, a 31-year-old mom from Opelika, Alabama, as she shares her powerful story of raising her daughter. Diagnosed at birth with DiGeorge Syndrome and later with autism, her daughters journey has been filled with both challenges and triumphs.

Aleta opens up about the complexities of navigating life with a child who has dual diagnoses, from understanding the rare condition of DiGeorge Syndrome (22q11.2 deletion syndrome) to learning how autism uniquely impacts her daughter. She candidly discusses the struggles of differentiating behaviors between the two diagnoses.

This episode is a testament to resilience, unconditional love, and the beauty of embracing life's unique journey.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this episode will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity and found strength through love and determination.

Follow Aleta on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bshari11/

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast/

Don't Forget to Subscribe!

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would be inspired by Aleta' s story.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Jacqueline, a resilient and inspiring mom who shares her journey of raising her 10-year-old son, diagnosed with autism and ADHD. Born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Jacqueline now resides in Ocala, Florida, where she’s built a life centered on advocating for and supporting her sons growth and success.

Jacqueline opens up about the challenges she faced during her separation and divorce, which coincided with Diego’s diagnosis. She shares how she transitioned from raising a non-verbal and shy toddler to celebrating the progress her son has made, including becoming verbal, social, and making friends.

Jacqueline also reflects on the sacrifices she’s made, including starting her own lash business to provide for her son while being present for his needs. She offers a candid perspective on the highs and lows of her journey, from the struggle of severe meltdowns to the triumph of watching her son grow into a more independent and social child.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this episode will resonate with anyone who has faced adversity and found strength through love and determination.

Follow Jacqueline on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caro_jackie1/

Connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast/

Don’t Forget to Subscribe!

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would be inspired by Jacqueline’s story.

In this episode Amanda shares her journey into getting a service dog for her son, the challenges they faced, and the impact Titan has had on their lives. Amanda discusses the importance of inclusivity and her passion for educating communities about autism.

If you'd like to reach out to Amanda, visit her Instagram at the link provided or follow her on Instagram for more insights and updates.

Connect with Amanda:

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autisticallyfit.slpa/

If you found Amanda's story inspiring, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. And as always, we'd love to hear your thoughts - leave a review or join the conversation on social media.

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah welcomes Ivan Lopez, a booking and transportation commander at Westchester County Department of Corrections, to discuss the rarely addressed emotional toll on autism dads. Ivan shares his personal journey of raising his son, Mateo, who is on the autism spectrum, and provides insight into the challenges, triumphs, and the importance of support and therapy for fathers.

Connect with Ivan:

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/papa_gato_got_kicks/

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/super_autism_papa_gato/

Don't forget to subscribe to the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast so you never miss an episode! If you found Ivan's story inspiring, please share it with someone who needs to hear this message. And as always, we'd love to hear your thoughts - leave a review or join the conversation on social media.

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast/

-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast/

In this empowering episode of 'Autism for Badass Moms', Donie, a resilient single mom from California, shares her journey of overcoming an abusive relationship while raising a son with autism. She discusses the challenges, emotional battles, and the determination required to provide the best life for her child. Donie's story highlights the importance of self-care, community support, and never giving up.

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with Melissa, a LPN nurse manager and single mom of two children, one with autism. Melissa shares her journey from New York to Georgia, dating challenges, overcoming cultural stigmas, and the vital role of family support. Throughout, Melissa offers essential advice for single moms navigating the dating scene, emphasizing the importance of being true to oneself and ready to advocate for their children.

Connect with Melissa:

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americas_sweet_heart/

Don't forget to subscribe to the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast so you never miss an episode!

-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast/

-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast/