In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, host Shannon Urquiola continues her holiday series with a conversation every autism parent needs before the real chaos hits—what to do after you completely lose your lane.

Because no matter how hard you work on staying calm, holding boundaries, and choosing your lane… there will still be moments where you snap, shut down, or say somethingyou regret. Especially during the holidays.

Shannon also shares a behind-the-scenes update on writing her book and how revisiting the hardest moments of this journey has been both healing and really, really hard.

If even one idea from this episode helps you walk into the holidays with a little more grace for yourself and less pressure to “get it right,” that’s a win.

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If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

This week, we’re continuing our holiday series with a conversation that every autism mom needs this time of year — learning how to stay in your lane when everything around you feels like chaos.

In this episode, Shannon shares real-life holiday scenarios that trigger overwhelm — the change in school routines, sensory overload, family expectations, and well-meaning relatives who just don’t get it — and walks you through practical ways to protect your peace and let go of what was never yours to control.

You’ll learn how to:

This season isn’t about doing it all — it’s about knowing what’s yours to hold and what you can release.
You’ll walk away with more peace, confidence, and clarity to navigate the holidays your way.

Plus, Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book — Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children.

Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminder that you’re stronger than you think. 💙

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Want more support from a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

201. Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back

As the holidays approach, you’re probably already feeling the shift — routines change, emotions run high, and suddenly you find yourself “choosing your battles” more than usual. But what if it’s not really about choosing battles at all?

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon dives deep into what’s really happening when you decide whether to enforce a boundary or let it go. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between flexibility and avoidance, why boundaries aren’t mean (they’re love in action), andhow to stay steady through the pushback that always comes with change.

Shannon shares real-life examples from her own journey with Jordan — from holiday meltdowns and unpredictable routines to learning when to hold firm and when to bend. You’ll walk away knowing that every decision you make isn’t about“getting it right,” it’s about knowing your child, trusting yourself, and choosing what truly matters in the moment.

So if the holidays tend to leave you feeling torn, guilty, or second-guessing yourself — this one’s for you. You’re not being inconsistent. You’re being strategic.

Stay tuned Next week for Part 2 — Episode 247. Staying in Your Lane: Reducing Holiday Stress and Letting Go of What’s Not Yours to Control.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠143. Social Expectations vs Autism Reality⁠

215. The Inclusion Debate: What Works, What Doesn't, and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever found yourself snapping, shutting down, or spiraling after your child’s behavior, this episode will help you understand why.

In this week’s episode, Shannon unpacks what’s really going on beneath those moments — when your nervous system takes over, your emotions run high, and you react before you can think.

You’ll learn how three hidden triggers — identity, social, and loss — show up in everyday life and why your child’s “bad behavior” isn’t the real problem. It’s what that moment triggers inside of you.

Shannon shares real-life examples from parents of toddlers, tweens, teens, and young adults, showing how these triggers can hijack your calm — and how to get it back.

She’ll walk you through how to name your triggers, calm your body, and respond from your values instead of your fears, so your child hears your guidance instead of your frustration.

PLUS — Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book, Loving Through The Unexpected; Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children. Follow along on social media for updates and sneak peeks!

🎧 Listen now — and remember, Mama: it’s not the behavior. It’s the trigger beneath it.

Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.

Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! ⁠⁠ https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠ 

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at  ⁠⁠[email protected] ⁠⁠ 

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

143.Social Expectations vs Autism Reality

70. What Do You Make Their Behavior Mean 

When your child says things that hurt—or acts out inways that feel personal—it’s easy to let those moments sink deep.
You love them, you give everything you have, and hearing “I hate you!” or watching a meltdown unfold can break your heart.

But what if those words and behaviors aren’t about youat all?

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mompodcast, host Shannon Urquiola shares how to separate your child’s struggle from your sense of self. You’ll learn how to respond without taking their behaviors personally, and why doing so changes everything—for you andfor them.

Shannon shares her own experiences with her son Jordan,plus a story from one of our members that inspired this episode, to remind you that your child’s words in dysregulation are not reflections of yourparenting—they’re reflections of overwhelm.

You’ll also learn her simple P.A.C.E. Yourself tool tohelp you stay calm in hard moments: Pause your story, attend to safety, co-regulate, and explain later.

Member Bonus: Your printable “P.A.C.E. Yourself” visual guide is now available inside the Member Portal and in the FILES section of the Village Facebook group.

And in case you haven’t heard… Shannon is writing abook!Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children is an honest, hopeful look at what it means to find peace and purpose when motherhood doesn’t go as planned.Follow us on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and release details!

🎙️Whether your child is yelling, refusing, or saying things that sting—this episode will help you hold steady, find compassion, and remember… It’s not about you.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

🎙️ Want more support in a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

201.Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back

When your child is melting down, your instinct is to fix it. To solve it. To make it stop.
But here’s the truth—before you can teach regulation, you have to model it.

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast, Shannon dives deep into why emotional validation is the foundation for every behavioral strategy that actually works.She explains what “feelings first” really looks like in real life, shares real-life scenarios from Jordan (now 29), and offers concrete phrases and resets to help your child feel safe before you address behavior.

You’ll also hear about her upcoming book, When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting an Autistic Child, coming in 2026 — written straight from her heart for moms just like you.

Because when you learn to see the feeling before the behavior, you begin to change everything — startingwith yourself.

🎧 Listen now wherever you stream podcasts.
💙 Connect | Coach | Community: www.notyouraverageautismmom.com

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directlyat ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠133.Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

Advocating is part of everyday life when you’re raising a child on the autism spectrum — but it can also be exhausting. In this episode, Shannon shares how to manageyour energy so you can advocate effectively without burning out. Learn how to protect your peace, choose your battles wisely, and sustain your advocacy over the long haul.

Shannon also recommends revisiting Episode 157, “Reframing Defeat; Your Child’s Progressis Closer Than You Think,” for added insight and support.

🎧 Listen now and discover how to keep showing up — notjust for your child, but for yourself and your family — with calm confidence and energy that lasts. 

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates withyou, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.

Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

Uncharted Territory in Special Education

Life runs on rules—and our kids need practice learning them at home so they can navigate the real world with safety and confidence. In this episode, Shannon shares why rules aren’t harsh or unfair; they’re loving preparation. You’ll learn how to make expectations clear, follow through consistently, and use consequences that teach (not scare).

Shannon opens up about Jordan’s electronics story—why she used to give in, how taking devices away at 24 was the hardest season, and the freedom that followed. No judgment here—just encouragement, clarity, and one simple challenge to help you start today.

I was honored to join Nichole Berlie on News Nation NOW ahead of the administration's press conference on autism & the search for causes.

My hope is that research continues—but without blame or shame for parents. Families deserve support and answers.

Watch at the link below:

NEWS NATION NOW Interview

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.

Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join the MOVEMENT on FB⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/thenotyouraverageautismmommovement

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠[email protected]⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠Episode 146. The Myth of “One Day”; Spectrum of Strengths⁠⁠

⁠⁠Episode 149. Parenting Imperfectly; Guilt Free Zone

Pragmatic language is about more than just talking—it’s the invisible set of social rules that help conversations flow and relationships grow. For children on the spectrum, these skills can be tricky, but they’re also essential, especially as they move from elementary into middle school.

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon explains what pragmatic language really means, why it matters so much, and how you can practice these skills at home. You’ll walk away with practical strategies, everyday examples, and a new perspective on helping your child build confidence and connection—one conversation at a time. And if you missed it, Shannon was recently featured on News Nation Now with Nichole Berlie, ahead of the administration’s autism announcement on September 22nd. She shares her perspective as a mom raising an autistic son and as the founder of Not Your Average Autism Mom.

Every chance she gets to use her voice for families like ours is a privilege—and this conversation was no exception. 💙

They talked about what it means to raise children on the spectrum, the challenges families face, and why representation in these national conversations matters so much.

If you missed it, you can watch the full interview here ⬇️👉 Watch Now

I’m always grateful for opportunities like this to shine a light on our families and children. Thank you for being here and being part of this journey with me. 💙

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Additional Resources:

Join the MOVEMENT on FB⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/thenotyouraverageautismmommovement

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠[email protected]⁠

⁠Episode 148: Shifting Perspective; Looking Through A Different Lens⁠

⁠Episode 48. Differentiating a Speech Delay and/or Autism

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mompodcast, Shannon Urquiola talks about the long game of independence and why the little skills your child learns today matter so much for their future.

Letting go isn’t easy, but when you nurture their confidence through small, everyday moments, you’re laying the foundation for big freedoms later on.

Shannon also unpacks the difference between parentingfor your comfort versus parenting for their future—and why that shift is one of the most powerful things you can do. If you’ve ever struggled with holding on too tightly, this conversation will give you both encouragementand a gentle nudge forward.

Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminderthat you’re stronger than you think. 💙

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughtsand experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter futurefor our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? Whenyou're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

 www.notyouraverageautismmom.com 

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ groupon FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us totalk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

⁠133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

You’re not alone in this, Mama. We’ll get through ittogether—just like we always do.

And above all, remember…

YOU are doing AMAZING at this MOM thing!