In this heartfelt episode, LaNiqua shares her powerful storyof navigating her child's autism diagnosis, overcoming challenges, and transforming her experience into a mission to empower other parents. Discover her insights on advocacy, community building, and finding hope beyond the diagnosis.

In this episode, we discuss:

00:00 - Welcome and episode introduction
02:00 - Recognizing early signs: speech and gut issues
06:15 - Initial feelings upon diagnosis and self-blame
11:24 - Deep dive into research and understanding autism spectrum disorders
15:52 - Dealing with limited school support and advocacy at IEP meetings
22:07 - The journey through community challenges and building a support network
27:30 - Transitioning from parent to advocate and launching her coachingbusiness
33:09 - Overcoming fears of big trips and trusting her son's abilities
38:14 - Launching her advocacy book, Birth of an Advocate
40:41 - The importance of storytelling and empowering marginalized voices
44:30 - Words of encouragement for new moms and parents in the early search foranswers
46:21 - LaNiqua’s definition of being a badass mom and advocate
49:19 - Final thoughts: hope, evolution, and celebrating your child's potential

Resources & Links

• Available on Amazon - Birth of an Advocate: Living Above the Spectrum

• Hummingbird Essentials (Email)

[email protected]

Connect with LaNiqua

Empowerment Strategist ~ Author ~ ATD Master Trainer

• Instagram – www.instagram.com/laniraee

• Facebook – LaNiqua LaNi McCloud

If this episode resonated with you:

• Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite podcast platform

• Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

Remember:

Taking the first step in understanding and advocating for your child is bold and powerful. LaNiqua’s story reminds us that with perseverance, community, and self-belief, we can help our children thrive beyond expectations. Share this episode with fellow parents and be inspired to become your own advocate!

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, Rashidahsits down with Betsy Matthews — proud autism mum, university careers consultant, advocate, marathon runner, and host of The Diary of an Autism Mum podcast — to have an honest conversation about navigating puberty witha neurodivergent daughter. Betsy shares how watching her daughter Sienna move through monthly hormonal patterns was eye-opening — and how her own fears sometimes spoke louder than reality. From considering medical intervention todiscovering practical solutions like period underwear, this conversation highlights the power of observation, flexibility, and trust.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Badass Moms Welcome

01:23 Puberty Fears and Questions

02:20 Meet Betsy Matthews

04:30 Sienna Puberty Started Early

05:20 Diagnosis Journey Begins

09:44 Hearing Autism and Grief

11:55 Communication Tools and ABA

13:58 School Placement Turning Point

15:31 Obsessions Books and Regulation

19:57 Periods Arrive and Solutions

24:45 Hormones Mood and Patterns

27:45 Managing Meltdowns and Pain

30:21 Reading Pain Signals

32:32 Behavior vs Real Distress

33:23 Support Network and Respite

36:28 Trusting Your Childs Instincts

38:06 Marathon and Self Care

41:08 Balancing Work and Parenting

42:40 Launching the Podcast

49:02 Puberty Advice and Mindset

54:42 Closing Thoughts and Callouts

Connect with Betsy:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/betsyrmatthews

Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofanautismmumpodcast

Check out Betsy’s Podcast – The Diary of an Autism Mumavailable on Apple Podcast and Spotify

If this episode resonated with you:

www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

In this episode of 'Autism for Badass Moms,' host Rashidah welcomes Kanisha, a 40-year-old registered nurse in Houston and mom to five-year-old Zoë (diagnosed at 2.5, verbal with limited communication), shares her journey from early concerns and self-referral for evaluation to an ADOS-based diagnosis and the therapies that followed. She opens up about balancing full-time work, navigating limited support, starting full-day ABA, and witnessing Zoë’s significant progress.

At the heart of the conversation is disclosure. Kanisha explains why she told only a small circle at first, choosing privacy over overwhelm and commentary. She reflects on finding community online and encourages moms to move at their own pace, trust their discernment, and protect their peace.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Welcome to Autism for Badass Moms (Show Intro)

00:46 Today’s Topic: Who Do You Tell First After an Autism Diagnosis?

02:18 Meet Kisha & Zoe: A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

04:42 Early Red Flags: 12–18 Months, Speech Concerns & Being Dismissed

07:58 Two-Year Turning Point: Sensory Signs & Suspecting Autism

11:22 The Daycare Wake-Up Call: Social Struggles & “Final Piece” Moment

13:52 Taking Control: ECI, Child Find & Getting Evaluated Without Waiting

16:45 Diagnosis & Insurance Hurdles: Fighting for Speech/OT Services

20:03 School vs. Daycare Reality: When Half-Day Support Isn’t Enough

21:44 Choosing ABA: Fear, First Days, and Finally Seeing Progress

24:26 Breakthroughs & Reframing the Future: From Level 3 to New Milestones

26:16 The Grief After Diagnosis: Mourning Dreams, Milestones, and the Unknown

32:27 Who We Told (and Who We Didn’t): Processing the Diagnosis

35:34 Grief, “What Ifs,” and Preparing for Every Outcome

36:53 Protecting Your Child: Privacy, Boundaries, and Unwanted Advice

38:56 Finding Your Tribe: Podcasts, Threads, and Support Groups That Get It

44:14 Real-Life Logistics: Summer Break, Programs, and Working Full-Time

47:36 Advice to New Autism Moms: Tell People at Your Own Pace

51:48 What Makes Her Badass + Closing Reflections and How to Connect

56:58 Final Takeaway: Discernment, Peace Over Pressure, and Guest Call-Out

Connect with Kanisha:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mamanish20

Resource shared:

YouTube: confessionsofanautismmom

If this episode resonated with you:

• Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite platform

• Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community

• Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstood

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

In this solo episode of 'Autism for Badass Moms', host Rashidah Cartwright explores the myriad challenges faced by mothers of children with autism, including the impact of social media, anxiety, and the mental load of parenting. She discusses the importance of community support, coping strategies for stress, and the ongoing journey of managing personal health and family dynamics. Rashidah emphasizes the need for self-care, grounding techniques, and finding moments of joy amidst the chaos, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles.

In this episode, Rashidah talks about:

00:00 Introduction: A Solo Episode for Badass Moms

01:25 The Current State of Our Lives

04:31 Navigating Uncertainty and Anxiety

10:14 The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health

16:20 Managing Personal and Family Challenges

20:50 Understanding Perimenopause and Its Effects

24:09 Balancing Work, Family, and Self-Care

30:11 Coping Strategies for Stress and Anxiety

39:05 Finding Community and Support

46:04 Conclusion: Staying Fierce and Together

If this episode resonated with you:

• Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite platform

• Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community

• Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstood

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions that empower and uplift.

In this episode of 'Autism for Badass Moms,' host Rashidahdelves into the unique challenges of raising a daughter with autism, focusing especially on milestones like puberty and menstruation. Rashidah is joined by Tiffany Jackson, a single mother of a 14-year-old autistic girl, Daisy. Tiffany shares her personal journey, from Daisy's diagnosis at age four to navigating uncharted territories of autism with limited support. She discusses the emotional and physical challenges, as well as her transformative experiences including writing 'Daisy's First Flow' to help other mothers. Tiffany alsoexplores her foray into creating inclusive platforms such as the 'Dining with Daisy' cookbook and fitness workshops. This episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for mothers facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of persistence, support, and finding purpose in the journey.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction to Autism for Badass Moms

00:16 Challenges of Raising an Autistic Daughter

01:43 Meet Tiffany Jackson and Her Journey

04:16 Early Signs and Diagnosis of Autism

14:46 Navigating Puberty and Menstruation

27:47 Starting a Nonprofit for Autism Awareness

29:32 Finding Purpose and Gratitude

29:56 Daisy's First Flow: A Book for Moms

32:06 Dining with Daisy: Encouraging New Foods

38:56 Fitness Workshops and Future Goals

41:44 Building a Supportive Community

48:03 Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Successes

58:13 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Connect with Tiffany

Website: HOME | CTW4YOU

Instagram: www.instagram.com/changetheworldforyou

Tik Tok: changetheworld4you_

If this episode resonated with you:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

In this episode of 'Autism for Badass Moms,' host Rashidahwelcomes Chantel, a resilient mother from Maryland, who shares her heartfelt journey of raising Mulan, her 7-year-old daughter diagnosed with autism. Chantel talks openly about the initial guilt and emotional struggles followingMulan's diagnosis, her advocacy efforts, and how she transformed her challenges into purpose, eventually embracing entrepreneurship. The conversation is apowerful reminder that acceptance of an autism diagnosis is a process and that resilience, coupled with the right support system, can lead to incredible personal growth and empowerment. Chantel's story is a source of hope and inspiration for other mothers navigating similar paths.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction to Autism for Badass Moms

01:19 The Emotional Journey of Autism Diagnosis

02:45 Meet Chantel: A Story of Resilience

04:28 Chantel's Early Signs and Diagnosis Journey

07:52 Navigating Guilt and Acceptance

10:14 Finding Support and Community

21:31 Balancing Work and Parenthood

21:57 Entrepreneurial Journey Begins

24:12 Therapy and Support Systems

25:52 Becoming an Advocate

29:16 Navigating Family Dynamics

30:34 Advice for New Autism Moms

33:21 Career Shift and Future Plans

37:22 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Connect with Chantel:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/allthingsafm

If this episode resonated with you:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories andinsightful discussions that empower and uplift.

In this heartfelt and informative episode of 'Autism forBadass Moms,' Rashidah welcomes DeAngela from Louisiana, who shares her deeply personal journey. DeAngela discusses navigating life as a mother to a child with DeGeorge syndrome and severe autism, dealing with the challenges of FMLA, and facing unreasonable workplace discrimination. She recounts the traumatic loss of her youngest child and the subsequent grief, her battle with postpartum depression, and an experience with her son's abuse at school. DeAngela also provides valuable advice on legal rights under FMLA, reasonable accommodations, and advocates for legislative changes. This episode is a touching, raw testament to the resilience and advocacy required for mothers in the specialneeds community.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:24 DeAngela’s Journey: Diagnosis and Challenges

04:57 Navigating Work and Health: FMLA and Accommodations

08:48 Struggles with Employer Support

24:59 Advocacy and Legislative Efforts

28:28 Navigating Autism Support Services

29:36 The Importance of Family and Community Support

31:51 Fighting for Your Rights as a Parent

34:32 Coping with Loss and Grief

38:14 Dealing with School Abuse and Advocacy

48:48 Legal Advice and Support Systems

55:27 Final Thoughts and Dedications

Connect with DeAngela:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/rnfrancis09

 Facebook: DeAngela Kachan Francis-Johnson

Tik Tok: deangelak

 If this episode resonated with you:

www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories andinsightful discussions that empower and uplift.

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidahwelcomes Meagan, a special education teacher and mother of an autistic daughter, to share her family's journey with neurodivergence. They discuss the importance of early autism diagnosis, Meagan's personal and professionalexperience navigating the educational system and how understanding her own neurodivergence has impacted her life. Meagan also talks about her nonprofit, Love Over Labels Advocacy, which focuses on IEP support, community outreach,and training law enforcement to better understand disabilities. This episode highlights the value of self-discovery, understanding neurodivergent traits, and fostering supportive communities for autistic individuals and their families.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction to Autism for Badass Moms

00:43 Meet Megan: A Neurodivergent Mom's Journey

01:25 Early Diagnosis and Family Realizations

03:55 Navigating the Education System

05:23 Challenges and Emotional Struggles

07:03 The Importance of Community and Support

08:57 Balancing Family Dynamics

20:54 Advocacy and Nonprofit Work

26:10 Innovative Teaching Approaches

30:32 Challenges in Psychiatric Emergency Rooms

31:30 Transformative Urgent Care Experience

32:34 AAC Boards in Parks Initiative

37:17 Love Over Labels: IEP Advocacy and Community Outreach

38:32 Blue Envelope Program for Police Interactions

44:49 Managing ADHD and Personal Well-being

50:09 Encouragement for Moms Seeking Diagnosis

55:21 Conclusion and Call to Action

Connect with Meagan:

Website: Love Over Labels Advocacy | special needs advocacy

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/loveoverlabelsadvocacy

https://www.instagram.com/meaganadvocates

 Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/loveoverlabels

 Threads:

https://www.threads.com/@loveoverlabelsadvocacy

If this episode resonated with you:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

In this episode, Danielle shares her emotional journey of raising her son Chandler, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. She discusses the challenges and fears she faced, especially as a Black mother, and the vital support system she relied on, including her family and close friends. Danielle also recounts her own experiences of feeling a connection to her son's symptoms, leading to her ADHD diagnosis. Emphasizing the importance of community and resources, Danielle introduces her upcoming nonprofit, The Sunshine Circle, aimed at supporting other parents of children with autism. Through her story, Danielle offers encouragement to other mothers navigating similar paths.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:09 Chandler's Early Years and Diagnosis

03:08 Emotional Impact of the Diagnosis

06:58 Support Systems and Therapy

14:00 Personal Reflections and Similarities

16:53 Navigating Autism in the Black Community

24:38 Advocacy and Awareness

28:07 Building a Support Network for Autism Moms

28:47 Introducing the Sunshine Circle Nonprofit

30:05 Challenges and Delays in Launching the Nonprofit

30:44 Navigating Resources and Support Systems

32:43 Balancing Personal Health and Parenting

34:16 The Importance of Community and Support

37:47 Mental Health Struggles and Coping Mechanisms

42:13 Encouragement and Advice for Struggling Moms

45:36 Connecting with Danielle and Final Thoughts

Connect with Danielle:

If Danielle’s story resonated with you and you want to continue the conversation, be sure to connect with her and follow her journey. Her voice and lived experience offer validation, insight, and community for women navigating similar paths.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/dannytheephantomm

Facebook: www.facebook.com/danielleparker

Email: [email protected]

If this episode spoke to you, share it with another mom who might be quietly connecting the dots. Subscribe, leave a review, and remember—you are not late, broken, or imagining things. You are learning more about yourself, and that matters.

Website:

www.autismforbadassmoms.com

Follow Us on Social Media:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

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@AutismForBadassMoms

In this episode, Rashidah interviews Susanna, who shares herdeeply personal journey of parenting a daughter diagnosed with autism at a young age. Susanna discusses the emotional challenges and the process of seeking a diagnosis while advocating for her child. She highlights the culturalnuances of dealing with autism within her Taiwanese and American family dynamics, as well as the lessons she's learned about self-care, advocacy, and authenticity. Susanna also talks about her book, 'Your True Self Is Enough,' which details her experiences and offers advice to other parents navigatingsimilar journeys. Throughout the conversation, Susanna emphasizes the importance of being present, embracing one's true self, and speaking one's truth.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Susanna

01:14 Discussing Self-Care and Sephora

02:00 Arizona's Diagnosis Journey Begins

02:22 Early Challenges and Realizations

07:02 Navigating the Healthcare System

12:03 Diagnosis Day and Emotional Impact

20:00 Cultural and Family Dynamics

23:09 Self-Care and Family Support

24:12 Journey of Self-Discovery

25:47 Cultural Expectations and Parenting

27:38 Embracing a New Career Path

30:24 Writing and Publishing the Book

37:28 Advice for Moms on Acceptance

42:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 

We are grateful to Susanna for sharing her profound insightsand hope that her story will inspire many others navigating similar paths.

Connect with Susanna

For more insights and to get Susanna’s book, visit herwebsite or connect with her on Instagram.

Your True Self Is Enough: Lessons Learned on My JourneyParenting a Child with Autism by Susanna Peace Lovell

Available on Amazon:

Your True Self Is Enough: Lessons Learned on My JourneyParenting a Child with Autism: Lovell, Susanna Peace: 9798989446704:Amazon.com: Books
Website: Susanna Peace Lovell | Life Coach for Special Needs Families

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mamapeace

LinkedIn: Susanna Peace Lovell 

If this episode resonated with you:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

YouTube: autismforbadassmoms

Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories andinsightful discussions that empower and uplift.

 And don’t forget to connect with Susanna PeaceLovell to learn more about her work and book.