What do you do when the system doesn’t see your child the way you do?

As a parent of a Black child with autism, that question isn’t just theoretical—it’s a daily reality. And today’s conversation is one I’ll carry with me for a long time. Mikilia Carroll is a fierce advocate, the founder of Aid for Autism, and most importantly, the mother of three—including her son Logan, who has shaped her life and calling in the most profound ways.

This episode wasn’t just informative—it was a heart-to-heart. Mikilia shows up with her full truth: the overwhelm, the systems that gaslight parents, the beauty of raising a child who sees the world differently, and the powerful reminder that you are your child’s best advocate.

This one is for every parent who’s ever been dismissed in an IEP meeting, every caregiver who’s cried behind a locked bathroom door, and every community member wondering how to show up better for our children.

Meet Mikilia Carroll

Mikilia is the founder and CEO of Aid for Autism, a community-based organization built from the ground up with lived experience. Her journey began with her son Logan, and what started as a personal mission became a movement.

She’s a mom, an educator, a fighter, and someone who never backs down from asking the hard questions. This episode is a masterclass in advocacy, but it’s also a love letter to the parents who are out here doing the most—and still feeling like it’s not enough.

What We Talked About

Why your child’s diagnosis is not the final word

How to advocate in IEP meetings when you feel ignored

Planning for transitions like adulthood and independent living

Guardianship, paperwork, and the systems no one explains

The emotional weight of caregiving—and the beauty in showing up anyway

Why extended family and community matter more than ever

Favorite Quotes

“If I would’ve listened to those doctors, my son would be sitting in a corner somewhere tying shoes. He knows so much more than they gave him credit for.”

“Every IEP is different. Don’t let them hand you a packet and call it a plan.”

“Just because they have a diagnosis doesn’t mean they don’t feel. Don’t talk about them like they’re not in the room.”

“We’re not asking for pity—we’re asking for partnership. Be a village. Let me take a nap.”

“You’re not alone. There are people who get it. Let us guide you.”

🔖 Chapter Markers

01:20 Meet Michaela + her son Logan

03:00 What Black parents should do after a diagnosis

05:50 Why you can challenge the professionals

08:00 How to advocate effectively in school meetings

11:30 Navigating big transitions + preparing for adulthood

13:05 Guardianship 101: what no one tells you

14:56 Signs of caregiver burnout—and what to do

18:30 How community can truly support parents

21:45 Having “the talk” with your child about being Black and autistic

26:00 Services + waivers parents don’t know they can ask for

29:00 The importance of empathy, visibility, and asking the child directly

31:00 Michaela’s final word to every parent: You are not alone

📝 Your Turn

This week’s reflection prompt:

“Where in your life are you being called to speak up, even when it feels like no one is listening?”

Whether you're a parent, educator, or ally—this episode invites you to look deeper, ask questions, and trust your intuition. Our kids are watching. Let’s show them what advocacy looks like.

🙌 Stay Connected + Keep the Conversation Going

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