Autism for Badass Moms

In this powerful episode, we journey to the United Kingdom to hear from Grace Mbuthia, a devoted mother of three. Grace opens up about raising her eldest daughter, 13-year-old Lexi, who was diagnosed with autism at age 3—alongside other complex medical conditions including Selective Mutism, Hydrocephalus, and Epilepsy.

Grace shares how the early years were filled with confusion, as Lexi didn’t present with the typical signs of autism. With so many overlapping medical concerns, the autism diagnosis initially felt like another label being added. But over time, Lexi’s ability to mask became clearer.

Through humor, resilience, and unwavering love, Grace reflects on the past ten years of advocacy, growth, and learning. She also discusses her work in the care sector, supporting vulnerable adults and her growing efforts to serve children and families navigating similar challenges.

This episode is a moving reminder that autism often doesn’t come alone—and that no mom has to walk this path in isolation.

Connect with Grace on Instagram: @_gra_cie_5

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @theabmpodcast
YouTube: theabmpodcast
Follow on TikTok: @autismforbadassmoms

Interested in being a guest on the show? Head over to our website and fill out the Guest Inquiry Form-we'd love to hear your story!

In this week’s episode, Rashidah sits down with Danielle Desiree, a powerful voice in the neurodiversity community and a proud autism mom from Atlanta, Georgia. Danielle’s 17-year-old son, Jordan, was diagnosed with autism and ADHD at the age of 7—a moment that reshaped her entire journey. 

Danielle previously served in the United States Air Force, where she experienced a structured and supportive environment while raising her eldest child. After transitioning out of the military, she faced the challenge of adjusting to a different lifestyle, particularly in the absence of the resources and support systems that had previously surrounded her. That led her to be inspired to create EVOL2VE (Evolve 2 Love)—a movement dedicated to helping others find meaning, healing, and strength through life’s challenges. 

Danielle is also the host of An Extraordinary Life, a podcast that amplifies voices within the neurodiverse community, and she’s launching a new initiative called KINGZ, focused on empowering youth. 

Tune in as Danielle shares her journey, her heart, and her mission to help others unlock their potential with grace, confidence, and love. 

Connect with Danielle: 

Website: evol2ve.com 

Facebook/Instagram: thedanielledesiree 

You Tube: youtube.com/@thedanielledesiree 

Follow Us: 
Instagram & Facebook: @theabmpodcast 
TikTok: @autismforbadassmoms 
YouTube: @theabmpodcast 

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Jessica Burrus, a single mom of four children diagnosed with autism, joins host Rashidah to share her emotional journey of parenting on her own — while navigating four different diagnoses. From early intervention to late discoveries, Jessica talks about what it means to carry the weight alone, yet never give up.

Hear how she balances motherhood, meltdowns, mental strength, and moments of doubt with fierce love and resilience.

Want to connect with Jessica?

Instagram: @4.brightstars

Follow Us: @theabmpodcast on IG & FB | TikTok: @autismforbadassmoms
YouTube: theabmpodcast

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In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with a powerhouse advocate who’s helping families shift from surviving to thriving—Sharon Webber.

Sharon, 55, is a proud mother from Montclair, New Jersey. She’s a divorced mom of two: a daughter who graduated from Emerson University, and a teenage son, Christopher, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of two and lives with limited communication skills.

Sharon’s journey as a parent led her to a deeper calling—advocating not only for her son but for families across the country. She quickly realized the importance of having a plan at every stage of a child’s life, especially when navigating the financial strain that often comes with raising a child on the spectrum.

Now, as a financial services professional, Sharon helps families eliminate debt, build wealth, and secure the future of their children. Her passion doesn’t stop there—she’s also a published author and Co-Founder of Indigo Kidz, Inc., an organization that provides a safe and nurturing space for families impacted by special needs. Indigo Kidz is rooted in empowerment, education, and spiritual growth for both parents and children.

Whether you're overwhelmed by expenses or unsure of how to prepare for your child's future, Sharon’s guidance and personal experience will leave you feeling both seen and supported.

Want to connect with Sharon?

FB: @sharonwebber

Be sure to connect with our badass tribe on social media:

IG: @theabmpodcast

FB: @theabmpodcast

YouTube: @theabmpodcast

Tik Tok: @autismforbadassmoms

Website: https://www.autismforbadassmoms.com

In this heartfelt and powerful episode, we’re joined by Iesha Glover, a 32-year-old DMV native now living in Southern Maryland. A strong and compassionate mother of two—with a third on the way—Iesha shares her deeply personal story of navigating the complex and emotional road of parenting a child with multiple diagnoses while managing her own mental health.

Iesha opens up about her son Phoenix, now 5 years old, who was diagnosed with autism shortly after his second birthday. But Phoenix’s journey began much earlier—he was diagnosed in utero with a rare congenital heart defect called Tricuspid Atresia, which affects 1 in every 1,000 people. After undergoing two heart surgeries and spending nearly three weeks in the hospital, Phoenix began experiencing developmental delays and food regression, eventually leading to an additional diagnosis of Oral Dysphagia.

As Iesha carried the weight of medical decisions, therapies, and the day-to-day demands of caregiving, her own mental health began to unravel. Anxiety and panic attacks became overwhelming, and she bravely sought therapy to begin healing—for herself and for her children.

Today, Iesha is not only surviving—she’s thriving. As a certified Holistic Wellness Practitioner, she now offers products and services that support trauma survivors and neurodivergent individuals in reclaiming their bodily autonomy and finding peace. Her journey is one of resilience, healing, and the powerful transformation that comes when a mother chooses herself in order to show up stronger for her children.

Tune in to hear her inspiring story of courage, motherhood, and purpose.

Want to connect with Iesha?

IG: @zenaromas.wellness

Website: https://www.zenaromasllc.com

If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to follow, rate, and leave a review!

Be sure to connect with our badass tribe on social media:

IG: @theabmpodcast

FB: @theabmpodcast

YouTube: @theabmpodcast

TikTok: @autismforbadassmoms

Website: https://www.autismforbadassmoms.com

Interested in being a guest on the show? Head over to our website and fill out the Guest Inquiry Form-we'd love to hear your story!

In this inspiring episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with the phenomenal Chelsea Jackson, from New Jersey. Chelsea is a powerhouse wife, devoted mom of three, and the proud mother of 12-year-old Layla, who was diagnosed with autism at just 18 months.

Chelsea opens up about her emotional journey — from moments of burnout and grief to powerful breakthroughs of release and relief. Instead of running from her daughter’s diagnosis, she chose to run toward it with fierce determination. With no roadmap, Chelsea dove headfirst into learning everything she could about autism and continues to grow through self-education and experience.

By day, Chelsea is a brilliant Event & Wedding Planner, and by heart, she’s a strong advocate for autism moms, using her voice to promote awareness, community support, and inclusivity. She is also a proud member of Jack & Jill of America – North Jersey, staying active in her local community.

In this episode, Chelsea shares:

-The emotional stages of processing her daughter’s diagnosis

-How she balances motherhood, entrepreneurship, and advocacy

-The importance of community, self-education, and showing up for other autism moms

Want to connect with Chelsea?

IG: @chelcsimone

Business IG: @chelseasimoneevents

If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review — your feedback means the world to us!

Be sure to connect with our badass tribe on social media:

Instagram & Facebook: @theabmpodcast

YouTube: @theabmpodcast

Website: www.autismforbadassmoms.com

Interested in being a guest on the show? Head over to our website and fill out the Guest Inquiry Form — we’d love to hear your story!

In this inspiring episode, Rashidah sits down with Jattu Kallon, a passionate advocate, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Bold Kidswear—a UK-based modern clothing brand that uplifts children through confidence, self-expression, and inclusive representation. As the mother of a 10-year-old son, Maksimus, who was diagnosed with autism and sensory language delay in 2020, Jattu brings a deeply personal and powerful perspective to parenting, perseverance, and purpose.

Jattu opens up about recognizing the early signs of autism due to her background working with special needs children, navigating single motherhood after separation, and the challenges of balancing a demanding work schedule with constant school emergencies. Despite overwhelming pressure, she pushed through and turned her pain into purpose.

She also shares the heart behind her co-authored book, “Bold Kids – The Origin”, a superhero story that celebrates diversity, inclusion, and teamwork. Whether through her clothing brand, authorship, or daily journey as a mother and advocate, Jattu continues to inspire other moms to embrace their own “bold” and raise their children with pride and power.

Connect with Jattu & Bold Kidswear:
Instagram: @boldkidzwear

Connect with Autism for Badass Moms:
Instagram: @theabmpodcast

Join the Conversation:

Tag us with your thoughts on this episode and how you’re raising your own bold kid!

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with the incredible Arte’a Funderburk, a 37-year-old mom of three from Maryland, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about parenting twins with different developmental journeys.

Arte’a opens up about her son Aiden’s autism diagnosis in November 2023 and what it’s been like raising him alongside his neurotypical twin sister, Arie. From noticing early developmental differences during the pandemic to immersing herself in advocacy and education, Arte’a shares her experience navigating a parenting path filled with both challenges and triumphs.

Arte’a’s story is honest, raw, and deeply inspiring — a must-listen for any parent walking a similar path.

Connect with Arte’a on Instagram: @moon.mamma_

Follow Autism for Badass Moms:

Website: https://www.autismforbadassmoms.com

Instagram: @theabmpodcast

Facebook Group: @theabmpodcast

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In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Richera Jones, a dynamic mother, advocate, and entrepreneur. A native of Glen Cove and Queens, New York, now residing in New Jersey, Richera shares her powerful journey of resilience and discovery. As a devoted wife and mother to two daughters, Sahar and Merci, both diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum, Richera’s life took a dramatic shift when she had to move between states and leave her career behind. But in the midst of uncertainty, she found her true calling.

Richera opens up about her transition into advocacy and entrepreneurship, becoming a fiancé, long-standing E-commerce business owner, WOSEPAC Co-Chair, and fierce advocate for inclusivity. She highlights the importance of collaboration, networking, and creating space for families like hers in broader conversations about special needs. Her story is a true testament to the power of perseverance, purpose, and community connection.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

-Richera’s personal journey balancing motherhood and advocacy

-The emotional impact of navigating autism diagnoses as a parent

-Leaving a traditional career to pursue passion-driven work

-How E-commerce became a bridge to empowerment

-Building community partnerships to amplify voices in the special needs community

-Why collaboration is essential for lasting change

Connect with Richera:

Instagram: @_closet12812

Don't forget to like, follow, and share with another badass mom, provider, loved one, or someone who would benefit in your life!

Join the Community and Follow Us on IG @theabmpodcast and connect with other badass moms who get it.

In this powerful and faith-filled episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with Jenelle Thompson—a dynamic wife, mother, Pastor, author, advocate, coach, and autism mom. Jenelle shares her journey raising her 17-year-old son, Nazir, who was diagnosed with autism at age 5 and is considered verbal.

As the Pastor of a church, Jenelle brings a unique and courageous perspective on navigating faith, ministry, and autism. She opens up about the importance of transparency with her congregation, especially when her son experiences meltdowns during Sunday service or Bible study. Rather than stopping worship, Jenelle and her husband choose to embrace their son in the moment, modeling love and inclusion over perfection.

Connect with Jenelle:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenellethemodel/

If you found this episode helpful, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with another badass autism mom, provider, loved one, or someone who would benefit in your life.

Join the Community and Follow Us on IG @theabmpodcast and connect with other badass moms who get it!