In this conversation, Betsy Hicks-Russ and Dr. Taylor Day delve into the evolving landscape of autism and mental health, discussing the importance of neurodiversity, the challenges of evidence-based practices, and the significance of lived experiences. They explore the role of social media in shaping perceptions, the complexities of diagnostic criteria, and the value of therapy for non-speaking individuals. The discussion emphasizes the need for a holistic understanding of autism, including co-occurring conditions and the impact of apraxia, while advocating for a more inclusive and affirming approach to support.

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Join Betsy as she speaks with Rev Meg Hammarsten about the fascinating intersection of consciousness and telepathy, exploring how everyone possesses this inherent ability and the practical steps to develop it. We delve into lucid dreaming as a gateway to telepathic experiences and discuss how these abilities may manifest uniquely in autistic individuals. Our conversation reveals how various spiritual traditions across cultures have referenced telepathic phenomena through different languages and frameworks, suggesting a universal human capacity waiting to be unlocked.

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Betsy engages with expert practitioners Hiraman and Clara to explore the therapeutic benefits of craniosacral therapy and its characteristic gentle, hands-on approach. The conversation delves into powerful techniques for calming the nervous system through subtle touch, breath work, and stillness that makes this modality so effective. Parents and caregivers will particularly benefit from the discussion on cultivating personal calm—a foundational skill that, alongside craniosacral's gentle techniques, positively impacts those in their care.

Join me as I explore the transformative world of spelling to communicate with my guest Meg Parkinson from Spelling 2 Communicate. Learn about presuming competence, session expectations, and the journey from letter boards to keyboards through real-life examples from my son Joey, an autistic open speller who now freely expresses his thoughts and opinions. This podcast offers practical insights for parents, educators, and anyone interested in alternative communication methods for non-speaking individuals.

Betsy Hicks-Russ and her guest, author, Michelle O'Neil explore the nuanced world of friendships among mothers of autistic children, highlighting the diverse types of connections that form through shared experiences. It offers insights into the various places these meaningful relationships begin—from support groups to school events—and provides practical advice for nurturing these vital connections.

Discover the comprehensive world of housing options available for adults with disabilities in this informative episode featuring housing experts Pam and Jamie from Partners 4 Housing. Learn how to navigate government assistance programs and maximize available benefits to create sustainable living situations for your loved ones. The episode explores the concept of family-driven housing models, with valuable insights from both industry professionals and real-world experience. Join us as we share a personal journey of creating a home for Joey, an autistic adult, and gain practical knowledge you can apply to your own family's housing search.

In this intimate and revealing episode, I sit down with my daughter to explore the often-overlooked perspective of siblings growing up alongside autism. Through our candid conversation, we uncover her complex emotions, challenges, and profound insights from childhood as the sister of an autistic brother.

From her early memories of confusion and adjustment to her evolved understanding as an adult, my daughter's story illuminates the unique path siblings walk—balancing their own needs while growing up in a family deeply impacted by autism. Her reflections offer valuable insights into how this experience has influenced her worldview, relationships, and the adult she's become.

This episode provides a thoughtful exploration of family dynamics, personal growth, and the lasting impact of growing up alongside autism, offering both validation for siblings on similar journeys and understanding for parents navigating these family dynamics.

In this intimate conversation, we sit down with Ron, who became Joey's stepfather at age 58, discovering an unexpected and profound connection that would transform both their lives. Through candid discussion, Ron and I share our parallel journeys of loving and supporting Joey, a 31 year old autistic man, whose presence has enriched our lives in countless ways. We explore the challenges we've weathered together and the unique ways we stay connected. This episode is a testament to the power of unconditional love, proving that meaningful connections can blossom at any age and that sometimes life's most beautiful chapters begin when we least expect them.

Created with the warmth of a fireside chat, this podcast offers a gentle, blame-free space for exploring autism awareness and understanding. Betsy candidly shares her personal evolution from previously held misconceptions about her son's capabilities to discovering his full awareness, intelligence, and personality. Rather than dwelling on past regrets, she focuses on present opportunities for growth and change, offering practical guidance and support to other caregivers of autistic individuals. Together with her guests, Betsy works to challenge outdated beliefs about autism while creating a compassionate space for learning and transformation.