Betsy Hicks-Russ interviews Nicci Smith, the mother of Tanner from 'Love on the Spectrum.' They explore themes of identity, the challenges of parenting a child with autism, the importance of fitness and self-care, and the impact of social media on their lives. Nicci shares her journey of self-discovery, the significance of nutrition, and the realities of living with autism. The discussion also touches on the constructive criticism they face in the public eye and the importance of kindness in online interactions.

Nicci Smith -

Tanner with the tism - Tannerwiththe_tism

Nicci Smith - nicci_smith6

Talk to Me Sis Podcast - ttmspod

Betsy Hicks-Russ

Betsyonthego.com

AutismOdyssey.org

Tiktok, Instagram & Facebook - BetsyOnTheGo

Takeaways

• Nicci Smith is a passionate advocate and mother of Tanner from 'Love on the Spectrum.'
• Navigating identity can be challenging for parents of children with special needs.
• Fitness and self-care are crucial for mental and physical well-being.
• Social media can amplify both support and criticism for public figures.
• Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining health, especially in midlife.
• The journey of parenting a child with autism is filled with both challenges and joys.
• Constructive criticism can lead to personal growth and reflection.
• It's important to be open-minded and sensitive to the experiences of others.
• Creating a supportive community is essential for personal and collective well-being.
• Kindness and understanding should be prioritized in online interactions.

This episode brings together speech-language pathologists, seasoned practitioners, parents, and a scientist for an open, thoughtful conversation about spelling as a communication method for nonspeaking autistic individuals. Rather than meeting criticism with defensiveness, we invite listeners—including those who hold doubts—to explore the real science behind motor challenges, apraxia, and the often-overlooked intelligence of spellers.Our aim isn’t to argue, but to illuminate. There is no “debunking” to be done—only a call to look more closely, ask better questions, and recognize that at the very least, the evidence is far from settled. And when evidence is inconclusive, the safest and most humane path is to presume competence and allow individuals the right to communicate in the way that works for them.This conversation is a gentle invitation to pause judgment, listen with curiosity, and consider what becomes possible when we give every person a chance to be heard. It’s also the beginning of a larger series—there is more to explore, more evidence to share, and more voices to uplift.

Betsy Hicks-Russ joins podcaster David Kaufer for a conversation about her journey from the early years to present. David broaches the subject of Telepathy (or the WooWoo topic) and the concept of non-local communication, exploring its scientific basis and the challenges in defining related terms like psy abilities and synesthesia. Both emphasizes the need for a better understanding of these phenomena and the potential abilities that may exist beyond current knowledge.

David Kaufer

https://davidkaufer.com

The David Kaufer Podcast: The Lighter Side of the Spectrum

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://BetsyOnTheGo.com

Takeaways

• Telepathy often carries woo-woo connotations.
• Non-local communication is recognized in scientific discourse.
• Synesthesia is a term used in scientific contexts.
• There is a struggle to find the right language for these concepts.
• The speaker believes we are just beginning to explore these abilities.
• Understanding these phenomena requires open-mindedness.
• Scientific inquiry can help demystify telepathy.
• The conversation highlights the intersection of science and perception.
• There is a need for more research in this area.
• The speaker expresses curiosity about unexplored abilities.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Carleigh Rochon of Bay Area Brain Spa, delve into the transformative effects of neurofeedback therapy, exploring its various types, mechanisms, and the importance of co-regulation in therapy. They discuss the evolution of neurofeedback technology, the significance of a calm environment for effective therapy, and the connection between nutrition and brain health. The conversation emphasizes the simplicity of effective therapies and the future of neurofeedback in holistic health, concluding with insights on the importance of self-care for caregivers.

Carleigh Rochonhttps://bayareabrainspa.com

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://BetsyOnTheGo.com

https://AutismOdyssey.org

Takeaways

Neurofeedback can have profound impacts on mental health.

Real-time monitoring of brain activity is essential in neurofeedback.

Co-regulation between caregiver and child enhances therapy outcomes.

A calm environment is crucial for effective therapy sessions.

Nutrition plays a significant role in brain health.

Simplicity in therapy can often yield the best results.

Neurofeedback technology has evolved significantly over the years.

Self-care is vital for caregivers to provide better support.

The lymphatic system is essential for overall health and wellness.

Holistic approaches to health are becoming increasingly important.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Becca Cramer explore the intersection of skepticism, telepathy, and the scientific community's response to non-verbal communication methods like spelling. They discuss personal experiences, the challenges faced by parents of non-speakers, and the potential for non-local communication to revolutionize understanding and treatment of individuals with communication challenges. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a shift in perspective within the scientific community and the importance of presuming competence in non-speakers.

Becca Cramer

https://substack.com/@beccacramer?r=3izcpe&utm_medium=ios

Instagram - Becca_Cramer

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://Betsyonthego.com

https://AutismOdyssey.org

Comprehensive list of studies. The site will be launched in November

https://PresumeComp.org

If you need them earlier, email [email protected]

Takeaways:

• The skepticism surrounding telepathy often stems from a lack of understanding.
• Personal experiences can challenge scientific consensus.
• Non-local communication may offer a new framework for understanding telepathy.
• Trust and connection are crucial in communication with non-speakers.
• The scientific community has historically dismissed telepathy without thorough investigation.
• Parents often feel frustrated by the scientific community's dismissal of their experiences.
• Research on non-local communication is limited but necessary for progress.
• The language of spellers can be advanced despite their communication challenges.
• Believing in the words of non-speakers can change their treatment and understanding.

The future of communication may involve new methods that transcend traditional speech.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Natalia Meehan explore the intricate relationship between herbal medicine and autism, emphasizing the importance of gentle, holistic approaches to healing. They discuss the significance of community support, the body's innate healing abilities, and the vital role of gut health in overall well-being. The conversation also delves into the challenges of picky eating, the empowerment of parents in dietary choices, and the nourishing qualities of herbs and spices. Throughout, they highlight the connection between nature and healing, advocating for a more mindful and compassionate approach to health and nutrition.

Natalia Meehan 

Flowering Futures https://floweringfutures.com

Instagram - NataliaMeehan

Instagram - TheNinaFoundation

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://BetsyOnTheGo.com

https://AutismOdyssey.org

Takeaways

• Herbal medicine can support the healing of sensitive bodies.
• Community and connection are vital for personal growth.
• The body has an innate ability to heal itself.
• Gut health is crucial for overall well-being.
• Nature provides essential healing benefits.
• Detoxification is important for autism support.
• Picky eating is often linked to gut health issues.
• Empowering parents can lead to better dietary choices.
• Flavorful herbs enhance the nutritional value of meals.
• Motor skills play a key role in communication for non-speakers.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Natalia Meehan explore the intricate relationship between herbal medicine and autism, emphasizing the importance of gentle, holistic approaches to healing. They discuss the significance of community support, the body's innate healing abilities, and the vital role of gut health in overall well-being. The conversation also delves into the challenges of picky eating, the empowerment of parents in dietary choices, and the nourishing qualities of herbs and spices. Throughout, they highlight the connection between nature and healing, advocating for a more mindful and compassionate approach to health and nutrition.

Natalia Meehan

Flowering Futures https://floweringfutures.com

Instagram - NataliaMeehan

Instagram - TheNinaFoundation

Takeaways

• Herbal medicine can support the healing of sensitive bodies.
• Community and connection are vital for personal growth.
• The body has an innate ability to heal itself.
• Gut health is crucial for overall well-being.
• Nature provides essential healing benefits.
• Detoxification is important for autism support.
• Picky eating is often linked to gut health issues.
• Empowering parents can lead to better dietary choices.
• Flavorful herbs enhance the nutritional value of meals.
• Motor skills play a key role in communication for non-speakers.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Kimber Allen, share Betsy's journey from grief to love after the sudden passing of her husband, John. She recounts how psychic medium, Kimber, connected her with John's spirit, leading to unexpected guidance and a new love with Ron. The conversation explores themes of love, loss, and spiritual connection.

Kimber Allen - [email protected]

Betsy Hicks-Russ - BetsyOntheGo.com

Autism Odyssey - AutismOdyssey.org

@BetsyOnTheGo

Takeaways

• Betsy Hicks-Russ shares her journey from grief to love.
• Kimber Allen, a psychic medium, connects Betsy with John's spirit.
• John's spirit guides Betsy to new love with Ron.
• Betsy finds peace and acceptance in her journey.
• The conversation explores themes of love, loss, and spiritual connection.
• Betsy and Kimber discuss the impact of spiritual guidance.
• Betsy's story highlights the power of unexpected connections.
• The narrative emphasizes healing and moving forward.
• Betsy honors her past while embracing new beginnings.
• The discussion reflects on the importance of love and support.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Diana Pastora Carson explore the profound impact of sibling relationships in the context of autism. Diana shares her journey growing up with her brother Joaquin, discussing the challenges and triumphs of advocating for his inclusion and well-being. They delve into the importance of presuming competence, the evolving understanding of ableism, and the need for systemic changes in education and support systems. The discussion emphasizes the role of siblings as advocates and the spiritual journey of caregiving, highlighting the importance of community awareness and the future of disability advocacy.

Diana Pastor-Carson

https://www.dianapastoracarson.com

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://Betsyonthego.com

Takeaways

*Diana's work aims to redefine disability awareness in educational settings.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Mackenzie Frost discuss the intricacies of finding and hiring caregivers, particularly for individuals with autism. They explore the challenges and qualities that make a great caregiver, the importance of matching caregivers with clients based on personal interests, and the role of state support in caregiving. The conversation also touches on the significance of understanding and accommodating the unique needs of both caregivers and those they care for.

McKenzie Frost - Serengeti Care in Bellingham

https://serengeticare.com

Betsy Hicks-Russ

https://betsyonthego.com

https://autismodyssey.org

Takeaways

• Caregivers should be matched with clients based on shared interests.
• State support can be crucial in caregiving arrangements.
• Understanding personal interests enhances caregiver-client relationships.
• Caregivers with diverse backgrounds can offer unique strengths.
• Training programs are essential for new caregivers.
• Care plans should be personalized and detailed.
• Communication is key in managing caregiver expectations.
• Caregivers need to be adaptable to different situations.
• Hiring caregivers with lived experiences can be beneficial.
• Providing incentives can help retain good caregivers.