Welcome to Episode 249 of Autism Parenting Secrets. 

This week, we welcome Kate Swenson, creator of Finding Cooper’s Voice (with over a million followers) and author of the national bestseller Forever Boy.

Her newest book, Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood, released in April 2025, brings together three autism moms—Kate, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood—each offering an honest look into their parenting journey.

This book is raw and real. It explores the ups, the downs, and the everyday wins—along with the harder truths, like how a diagnosis impacts marriage, family dynamics, and mental health.

At its heart, it’s a powerful reminder that you’re not alone—and that there’s strength in community and our shared stories.

The secret this week is…

It’s Going to Be OK

You'll Discover:

• The Shift That Makes Everything Better (4:58)
• The Backstory of Finding Cooper’s Voice (17:09)
• The Importance of Finding YOUR Tribe (24:51)
• Why The Middle Is The Place To Be (31:57)

About Our Guest:

Kate Swenson is the creator of the blog and Facebook page Finding Cooper’s Voice. Her debut Forever Boy was a National Bestseller. She speaks regularly about autism, parenting, and motherhood, and is a contributor to TODAY Parents, The TODAY Show, and the Love What Matters blog. Her mission is to create a safe space for families of children and teens with special needs to come together and laugh, cry, and support each other. She lives in Minnesota with her family.

www.findingcoopersvoice.com/

www.facebook.com/findingcoopersvoice

www.instagram.com/findingcoopersvoice

References in The Episode:

• Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood by Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello and Adrian Wood
• Forever Boy: A Mother's Memoir of Autism and Finding Joy by Kate Swenson

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow us on Instagram

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