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

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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_

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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:

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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:

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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:

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Tik Tok: autismforbadassmoms

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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

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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:

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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.

In this heartfelt episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with Natalie Carbone, a wife, mother, and autism advocate from Union City, New Jersey, whose life took an unexpected—but deeply purposeful—turn.

After becoming a medical assistant, Natalie began to notice that her daughter, Sienna-Rose, wasn’t meeting developmental milestones. When Sienna-Rose was diagnosed with autism at age six, Natalie made a courageous decision to pivot her career and step into the role of a behavioral therapist—driven not just by profession, but by purpose.

Natalie is now the founder of Natalyze Behavior, a community-driven platform dedicated to supporting children and families navigating behavioral and developmental challenges. What began as a deeply personal journey rooted in motherhood and advocacy has evolved into a trusted space where families can find guidance, tools, and encouragement tailored to their unique needs.

Grounded in compassion, lived experience, and an unwavering belief that every child deserves to be understood and celebrated, Natalie shares how advocacy can grow from pain, how purpose can be born from uncertainty, and why families walking this path are never alone.

This episode is a powerful reminder that sometimes the career we never planned for is the one we were always meant to walk.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction to Autism for Badass Moms

00:55 Navigating Career Changes as an Autism Mom

01:48 Meet Natalie Carone: A Journey of Advocacy

04:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Early Diagnosis

12:48 Finding Purpose and Building a Brand

22:28 Expanding Support and Community Impact

23:00 Community Inclusivity Initiatives

23:37 Sensory Playground Transformation

25:32 Self-Care and Reading Habits

26:17 Sienna's Reading Journey

27:38 Connecting with Natalie

29:04 Advice for Moms of Special Needs Children

32:12 Natalie's Confidence and Achievements

36:28 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with Natalie:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/natalyzebehavior

Tik Tok: natalyzebehavior

Facebook: Natalie Carbone

If you found Natalie's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to follow on this platform and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

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In this episode, Tanasha shares her profound journey of navigating her daughter Harmony's autism diagnosis. Relocating from New York to South Carolina, Tanasha encountered significant challenges in getting the appropriate diagnosis and support for her daughter. From facing resistance at schools to dealing with unsupportive healthcare professionals, Tanasha's story is one of relentless advocacy and resilience. Despite the adversity and lack of support from friends and family, Tanasha remains committed to helping other parents through her book, 'Making Sense of Sensory', and by spreading awareness about autism and the racial biases in the diagnosis process. Her candid account sheds light on the persistent struggle parents face in securing the necessary services for their children with special needs.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:14 Relocating to South Carolina

00:42 Harmony's Diagnosis Journey

01:43 Challenges with the School System

03:39 Navigating the Healthcare System

04:50 Facing Racial Biases

16:48 Struggles with Support Systems

19:57 Unexpected Relationship Surprises

21:46 Navigating Autism and Racial Bias

21:59 Support from the Autism Community

23:21 Challenges of Self-Care

24:30 Advocating for Services

26:08 Becoming an Author

29:53 Sharing the Journey

33:29 Advice for Struggling Moms

38:47 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

If you found Tanasha's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Tanasha:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ausomemom1991

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ausomemom91

Tik Tok: ausomemom

YouTube: ausomemom

To purchase Tanasha's book on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Making-Sense-Sensory-Parents-Spectrum-ebook/dp/B0FHKZ6LVK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P4OEQQ3ATLWV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.XGQmR0r9RqwNPl_ByTiYzQ.u9Tdym2TqEITUvzf8WnExI0RUuR59ZXiemGVhsx0XiE&dib_tag=se&keywords=making+sense+of+sensory+tanasha&qid=1765845306&sprefix=making+sense+of+sensory+tanasha%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-1

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In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tawana Chealy, a mother of two sons, one of whom is on the autism spectrum. They discuss the unique challenges of finding love as a single mom, the emotional toll of raising a child with autism, and the journey of healing and hope after heartbreak. Tawana shares her personal experiences, including the struggles of processing her son's diagnosis, the impact on her relationships, and the importance of finding a supportive partner. The episode emphasizes resilience, empowerment, and the belief that love is possible, even in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Empowering Moms: A Journey Begins

00:48 Finding Love Again: The Unique Struggles of Autism Moms

02:39 Tawana's Story: Love, Healing, and New Beginnings

05:33 The Diagnosis Journey: Understanding Autism

11:40 Navigating Emotions: Parents' Perspectives on Autism

17:28 The Weight of Expectations: Coping with Public Perception

23:17 Life as a Single Mom: Challenges and Resilience

29:09 Reclaiming Joy: The Path to New Relationships

29:38 A Unique Love Story Begins

35:41 Navigating Relationships as a Special Needs Parent

43:14 The Importance of Male Presence in Parenting

46:47 Building a Business and Writing Books

51:58 Advice for Moms Entering New Relationships

If you found Tawana's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Tawana:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/mrschealey

Tik Tok: Tawana Chealey

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