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In this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles', Leta and Amanda delve into their personal experiences with autism, focusing on how it defines their identity. They discuss how well-meaning people will often ignore that someone is autistic, using the phrase “I don’t see autism.” They discuss the misconceptions surrounding acceptance (especially when it comes to claiming acceptance is ignoring autism and the limitations autistic people face), the importance of true acknowledgment, and the necessity of accommodations. Highlighting their dance studio experiences, they recount the challenges of masking, the misunderstandings by teachers, and the emotional toll of hyper fixation. The episode features a lively and insightful conversation, interspersed with humor and honest reflections on navigating the world as neurodivergent individuals. Additionally, they share exciting updates about upcoming guest appearances and call for more awareness and genuine acceptance within the autism community.

Catch Amanda and Leta on Life Stories Podcast with Shara Goswick this Thursday, April 10, 2025. Check her podcast out at https://lifestoriespodcast.com/

Our Socials and websites

The Podcast's Website: https://www.letatapstyles.com

The Podcast's TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@letatapstylespodcast

The Podcast's Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562557047377

The Podcast/Leta's YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles

Leta's Instagram Account https://www.instagram.com/@letatapstyles

Autistic Wings Dance Company https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

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Dr Kristen Williamson returns to the podcast for a discussion on advocating for neurodiversity within the military, focusing on the challenges and strategies for supporting neurodivergent children and their families. We discuss the stress levels experienced by parents of neurodivergent children, managing PCS moves, and the importance of understanding the specific needs and rights under the Defense Health Agency. Dr. Kristen shares her experiences and insights as a licensed professional counselor, late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD individual, and military spouse. We emphasizes the critical need for advocacy, proper diagnosis, and the right to behavioral health services. The discussion also touches on masking in neurodivergent individuals, military regulations, and the importance of support networks. (Plus, Leta’s opinion that the military attracts neurodivergent people.)

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This week features Leta discussing her latest video and photo shoot, and how autism does or does not affect her ability to handle shoots. Leta also discusses her experiences dancing and interacting with animals. The conversation covers various subjects including filming for her tap dance career, how she manages sensory issues, and why she isn’t afraid of doing improv. Leta also shares her encounters with the “Not Hollywood” trained farm dogs during a video shoot on her grandfather's farm. (Along with a discussion about how cool the farm dogs are, and how fluffy their coats are.) The episode highlights her adaptability and passion for dance, despite the challenges posed by autism. The episode concludes with a mention of an ongoing fundraiser for her nonprofit dance studio, Autistic Wings Dance Company, a preview of Friday’s guest, and a shoutout to new podcaster, Michelle Choairy.

Visit Leta's Tap Styles Podcast Website for more information https://www.letatapstyles.com

Visit Autistic Wings Dance Company for more information about Leta's nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

Check out Michelle's new podcast "Complex Kids, Simple Solutions" by visiting https://wisdom4complexkids.com/complexkidssimplesolutions

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In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, guest Rebecca Engle, a special education teacher, ten-time author, and six-time poet, shares her experiences growing up nonverbal, her journey to becoming verbal, and her work in special education. Rebecca uses her own experiences using IEPs and 504s as a student to explain the importance of both IEPs and 504s. We discuss Rebecca’s experiences with writing both children's books and poetry. Rebecca’s insights on the struggles faced by autistic individuals with educational and therapeutic systems from the viewpoint of someone on the Spectrum themselves.

Connect with Rebecca via the following links

https://www.instagram.com/re02.20/

http://bit.ly/Stepintomyshoes

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-e-7806131ba?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

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This conversation explores the differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, particularly in the context of their experiences during the COVID pandemic. It highlights the impact of online learning and therapy on childhood development, communication styles, and the cultural references that shape their identities. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by Gen Alpha in terms of learning disabilities, physical development, and the need for whimsical storytelling in media. In this conversation, Leta Rundell and Amanda Trisdale explore the generational differences between Gen Alpha and previous generations, particularly focusing on language, respect for authority, childhood independence, and the lasting impact of COVID-19 on their development. They discuss how these factors shape the identity and experiences of Gen Alpha, emphasizing the need for understanding and adaptation in educational settings.

Support Leta's nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers by visiting https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

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In this episode, host Leta and her mom welcome guest Kerie Logan, a therapist, empowerment specialist, podcast host, and parent of an autistic child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). They delve into topics such as autism, masking, the importance of parental understanding, and how technical difficulties impacted their recording session. Carrie shares personal experiences and professional advice on diagnosing autism, managing masking behaviors, and the significance of creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also critiques traditional approaches like ABA therapy and emphasizes the value of being authentic.

Check out Kerie’s Website to listen to her podcast, follow her socials, and connect with Kerie https://mastertheupperrooms.com/

Kerie and Leta’s Tap Styles connected through PodMatch. PodMatch is like a dating site for podcasters and guest. Using the same algorithms as your favorite dating site, PodMatch connects podcasters and guests alike. Use Leta’s Tap Styles’ link to join today. (We receive a small amount of money for anyone who signs up using our link.) https://www.joinpodmatch.com/letastapstyles

Want to help support Leta's dream of a dance studio for autistic dancers? Donate today by visiting the website https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

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In this episode, Leta and her mom discuss the multifaceted nature of their podcast, blending tap dancing and autism awareness. They talk about their nonprofit, Autistic Wings Dance Company, its founding, and the need for fundraising to expand their dance studio to better serve autistic children. They share a heartwarming profile about one of the dance students at Autistic Wings Dance Company and express their dedication to creating a supportive environment for autistic dancers and their parents. The episode calls for donations to support their mission and touches on generational differences, particularly the experiences of Gen Alpha. Tune in for an engaging mix of personal stories, advocacy, and a touch of humor.

If you would like to help Autistic Wings Dance Company get into a larger studio space, so we can expand our program, you can join our monthly/annual donation membership program here

https://donorbox.org/join-oour-partnership-prpgram

If you would like to make a one-time donation to Autistic Wings Dance Company to help our dancers soar on their wings, you can donate using this link

https://donorbox.org/join-us-in-starting-autistic-wings-dance-company

If you are a dance teacher who would like to volunteer/join our staff, please contact Amanda at [email protected]

If you are the parent of an autistic child, or an autistic adult who would love to join our dance family, you can see our current class offerings at https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

Fall 2025 Registration opens up on April 2nd.

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In this episode of the 'Tap Styles' podcast, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Michael. They discuss Michael's autism diagnosis journey, workplace challenges, and the importance of accommodations for autistic individuals. They emphasize the need for understanding and supportive environments, particularly in work and school settings. The conversation critiques traditional ABA therapy and how traditional ABA promotes harmful practices. Michael talks about his own advocacy work and podcast, stressing the significance of safe spaces and authentic living for neurodivergent individuals. Leta shares her experiences with dance teachers and the importance of a supportive, inclusive environment in her dance studio. The episode underscores the value of embracing neurodiversity and the detrimental effects of masking.

The Deep Dive Podcast website – http://www.deepdiveau.net

Check out Michael's socials –

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560333886558

LinkedIn -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-deep-dive-podcast

Instagram - @thedeepdiveau

TikTok - @thedeepdiveau

Check Michael's YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/@TheDeepDiveAU

Check out Michael's Interviews on other podcasts - http://linktr.ee/michaelcoles

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In this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta celebrate the first anniversary of the Autistic Wings Dance Company, reflecting on their journey, challenges faced in traditional dance studios, and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for autistic dancers. They discuss the founding of Autistic Wings Dance Company, the need for fundraising to support growth, and their vision for the future, emphasizing the significance of community support and understanding in the dance world.

To help support Autistic Wings Dance Company's 350 in 365 Campaign, please visit https://donorbox.org/350-in-365-1

To Learn More About AWDC, visit https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

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In this episode of Leta's Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda host guest Mario Wissa, who shares his journey from Cairo, Egypt to the United States, his diverse professional background, and his passion for communication. The discussion delves into the challenges and nuances of communication, and how it is different for each and every individual. Mario takes some time to question Leta about her communication preferences, and discusses how little things like asking others how they communicate can help build bridges. Leta shares her creative projects, including clay artworks and the Lego polybag set she built during the interview. The episode highlights the need for understanding and adapting communication styles to support autistic individuals effectively.

Connect with Mario

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mario-wissa-b0470628a/

https://www.instagram.com/ecu_mariowissa/

Visit our website

https://www.letatapstyles.com

Check out the podcast's TikTok for show clips and Leta tap dancing

https://www.tiktok.com/@letatapstylespodcast

Join Us on Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562557047377

Help Support Leta's Nonprofit Dance Studio for dancers on the Spectrum

https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org