Betsy Hicks-Russ and Iris Wong explore the concept of executive functioning, its importance in the context of autism, and how it relates to health and well-being. They discuss the significance of understanding individual differences in executive functioning, the role of diet, and the gut-brain connection. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive toolkit for caregivers and the importance of awareness in making dietary changes. Personal experiences and insights are shared, highlighting the journey of navigating executive functioning challenges.

Host Info:

Betsy Hicks-Russ

BetsyOnTheGo.com

@Betsyonthego

AutismOdyssey.org

Guest Info:

Iris Wong

EFToolkit.com

@Eftoolkit

Takeaways

• Executive functioning is crucial for caregivers to understand.
• Health and well-being are interconnected with executive functioning.
• Individual differences in executive functioning must be acknowledged.
• A supportive toolkit can help manage executive functioning challenges.
• Diet plays a significant role in behavior and executive functioning.
• The gut is often referred to as the second brain.
• Gentle detoxification methods are essential for health.
• Awareness of dietary impacts can motivate change.
• Rest is a vital component of managing executive functioning.
• The journey of learning and sharing experiences is important.

Betsy Hicks-Russ interviews Martha Castillo, who shares her journey as a mother navigating the complexities of raising her son Matthew, who was diagnosed with autism and Phelan McDermid syndrome. Martha discusses the challenges of early diagnosis, the importance of community support, and the emotional toll of regression in communication. They explore the dynamics of friendships, the impact of public perception, and the significance of dietary changes in managing health. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion within the special needs community.

https://pmsf.org/phelan-lucky/

Find Martha on Instagram - TeamMatthewLuis

• Martha was given a diagnosis for her son Matthew at 20 months.
• She pursued further testing, leading to a diagnosis of Phelan McDermid syndrome.
• Community support has been crucial for Martha and her family.
• Regression in communication is a significant challenge for children with PMS.
• Support groups can be hit or miss for parents of special needs children.
• Friendship dynamics change when navigating special needs parenting.
• Public perception can be daunting, but most people are not judging.
• Dietary changes have led to significant health improvements for Matthew.
• Martha emphasizes the importance of presuming competence in nonverbal children.
• The Phelan Lucky campaign has raised over $1 million for the Phelan McDermid Syndrome Foundation.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Pam Blanton discuss the complexities of housing for adults with disabilities, focusing on the steps families can take to navigate the system. They cover essential topics such as applying for Social Security, understanding state services, exploring various housing options, finding caregivers, and planning for the future. The discussion emphasizes the importance of affordability, the role of Partners for Housing, and the benefits available to families. They also highlight the significance of roommate matching and the emotional aspects of transitioning to independent living for individuals with disabilities.Partners 4 Housinghttps://partners4housing.com/Start the housing journey by applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI).Medicaid services are automatically available with SSI approval.Each state has different programs for developmental disabilities services.Families can receive support even without state aid.Social Security application processes have become more challenging recently.Affordable housing options vary widely and should be customized to individual needs.Shared living arrangements can provide companionship and reduce costs.Finding and retaining caregivers is a significant challenge for families.Planning for the future is crucial for families of individuals with disabilities.Section 8 housing can provide long-term affordability for families.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Julianne King discuss their journeys as mothers of children with autism, focusing on the transformative power of spelling as a means of communication. They share personal stories about their sons, Beau and Joey, exploring the challenges and triumphs they face in advocating for their children's voices. The discussion highlights the importance of community support, the dreams and aspirations of non-speakers, and the need for continued advocacy and resources in the autism community.https://hawaiiautismfoundation.orgThe journey of understanding non-verbal children begins with open communication.Spelling can be a powerful tool for non-speakers to express themselves.Every child’s journey with autism is unique and requires patience.Advocacy is crucial for non-speakers to have their voices heard.Parents play a vital role in supporting their children's communication efforts.Building a community of support can help families navigate challenges.Dreams and aspirations of non-speakers should be prioritized and encouraged.Criticism from outsiders can be a barrier to progress for families.Telepathy and connection among non-speakers can enhance understanding.Training and resources are essential for effective communication strategies.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Andrea Arlotti discuss the challenges faced by caregivers of children with autism, emphasizing the need for community support and self-care. They introduce their upcoming Be Nourished Retreats aimed at providing healing, balance, and connection for mothers. The discussion covers the importance of nutrition, laughter, and movement in maintaining well-being, as well as the significance of understanding the nervous system and co-regulation. They also explore the potential for expanding their retreat offerings globally, inviting caregivers to join them in this transformative experience.Be Kind Retreat - BetsyOnTheGo.comhttps://infinitepossibilitieshealing.comInstagram/Facebook - AndreaArlottiHealingTakeaways:Caregivers often face overwhelming challenges when raising children with autism.Community support is essential for caregivers to thrive.Retreats can provide a much-needed break and healing for mothers.Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall well-being and energy levels.Laughter is a powerful tool for healing and connection.Understanding the nervous system is key to managing stress and anxiety.Movement and physical activity are vital for maintaining energy and health.The retreats aim to create a safe space for mothers to relax and recharge.Expanding the retreat experience globally can help more caregivers.Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for effective caregiving.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Raj Khedun explore the significance of mindfulness and breathing techniques, particularly for parents of autistic children. Raj shares his personal journey and insights on how breath can enhance consciousness and well-being. They discuss practical techniques that can be easily integrated into daily life, emphasizing that mindfulness does not require a specific setting or extensive time commitment. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of all beings and the importance of quieting the mind to foster better connections with oneself and others. In this conversation, Raj Khedun and Betsy Hicks-Russ explore the transformative power of breathwork and mindfulness techniques. They discuss the physiological and emotional benefits of breathwork, the challenges of managing the 'monkey mind', and the importance of teaching mindfulness to children. The conversation also delves into practical strategies for addressing insomnia and enhancing overall well-being through simple yet effective techniques. The episode concludes with resources for further learning and support.https://keepfitkingdom.comRoom 2 Breathe - MarleenBetsy Hicks-RussAutism Odyssey - AutismOdyssey.orgBetsyOnTheGo.comBetsyOnTheGo on Tiktok, Instagram, and FacebookAutism Odyssey Podcast also on Spotify and AppleTakeaways:Breathing techniques can help parents connect with their children.Mindfulness can be practiced in short, everyday moments.Breath is essential for life and consciousness.Understanding breath can enhance mental clarity and emotional stability.You don't need a special environment to practice mindfulness.Simple breathing exercises can be done anywhere, anytime.The breath can activate the body's relaxation response.Mindfulness practices can lead to better relationships.Quieting the mind can improve overall well-being. Breathwork can induce feelings of euphoria and calm.The 'monkey mind' can be quieted through mindfulness techniques.Listening to positive content can shape our experiences.Teaching children mindfulness can help manage emotional meltdowns.Breath work can be a powerful tool for relaxation and meditation.Insomnia can be addressed through breath work and lifestyle changes.Mindfulness practices can enhance connections with others.The vagus nerve plays a role in emotional regulation.Simple techniques can unlock mental clarity and focus.Creating a routine can help establish mindfulness practices.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and speech and language therapist, Megan Harcourt discuss the evolving landscape of speech therapy, particularly in relation to autism. They explore the role of ASHA, the importance of holistic approaches, and the impact of gut health on communication. Megan shares her personal journey and realizations in the field, emphasizing the need for a more integrated approach to therapy that considers the whole child and their environment. The discussion also touches on the significance of community support, the challenges parents face, and the importance of understanding behavioral impulses in children with autism.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Rachel Winder of Auticulate, explore the complexities of autism from an autistic perspective. They discuss various topics including the importance of presuming competence, the challenges of sensory overload, and the nuances of meltdowns. Rachel shares her insights on ground-up thinking versus top-down thinking, the role of humor in managing stress, and the significance of understanding triggers. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and support for autistic individuals, particularly during challenging moments. In this conversation, Rachel Winder and Betsy Hicks-Russ delve into the complexities of neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They explore the emotional and sensory experiences of individuals with these conditions, discussing coping mechanisms for meltdowns, the significance of breath in calming techniques, and the challenges of transitioning between activities. The discussion also highlights the concept of looping in thoughts and sounds, sensory processing, and the importance of routines for neurodivergent individuals. Rachel shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for understanding and support in navigating daily life as a neurodivergent person.

www.Auticulate.co.uk

@Auticulate on Tiktok and Twitter

Betsy Hicks-Russ and Carrie Kane discuss the complexities of picky eating, its causes, and solutions. They explore the impact of the food industry on children's eating habits, the importance of understanding the parent-child dynamic in food choices, and the significance of allowing children to make their own food decisions. They emphasize the need for a balanced diet, the role of hunger, and the importance of empowering kids to make healthier choices.

Betsy speaks with Tara Reynolds, founder of Peace, Love, Autism, about her journey from a corporate career to creating a supportive community for families with autistic children. They discuss the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, the importance of social media in building connections, and the creative inspirations behind Tara's fashion brand. The conversation highlights the need for community support, the significance of in-person connections, and the ongoing journey of personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges.

PeaceLoveAutism.com

@tarareynoldz - Instagram/Facebook

@peaceloveautism - Tiktok