Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America

In this episode of Staring Down the Storm, I sit down with the incredible team from JD Angel’s Family Care to talk about what it really means to support individuals with intellectual disabilities—and why so many systems keep failing them. We dig into the origin of the organization, which started simply to meet a pressing housing need, but quickly grew into something much bigger: a place where clients gain life skills, confidence, and dignity.

We talk about the daily realities—how structured programs, luxury living, and genuine care transform lives. But it’s not just about comfort; it’s about empowerment, advocacy, and teaching clients that their voices matter. From Medicaid challenges to voting, JD Angel’s pushes for community involvement and real agency. I keep asking: why are we still letting bureaucracy and politics decide who gets to live a full life?

This conversation doesn’t shy away from grief, loss, and resilience. Personal stories—like the tragic death of Latia's son - a young community leader—highlight the urgency of their mission. But through it all, the focus is on building generational wealth, fostering mentorship, and proving that empowerment is contagious.

JD Angel’s Family Care isn’t just an organization—it’s a family. And in this episode, I hope you’ll be challenged to think about what “community” truly means, and what it takes to stand together, across race, class, and circumstance, to lift everyone up.

Find more info on JD Angel’s Family Care here:

Website: https://www.jdangelsfamilycare.com/

Facebook: JD Angels Family Care

email: [email protected]

Chapters

00:00 The Origin Story of JD Angel's Family Care

05:15 Transforming Lives: Daily Structure and Support

10:10 Client Success Stories: Progress and Independence

17:23 The Importance of Staff Training and Teamwork

24:07 Navigating Medicaid Changes and Advocacy

33:39 Empowerment Through Community Action

36:55 The Impact of Personal Loss and Advocacy

40:31 Building a Supportive Network

50:59 A Vision for Unity and Generational Wealth

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

I’ll be honest: the conversation we should be having about financial literacy is so much bigger than budgets and bank accounts.

It’s about values, agency, and the courage to question systems we treat as inevitable. That’s why I wanted to talk with David Delisle — because he’s not just teaching kids about money, he’s trying to reshape how families think about consumption, curiosity, and what actually makes a life meaningful.

And here’s what keeps nagging me: why do we act like our choices don’t shape markets and culture? We say we hate monopolies, but we worship convenience. We claim to value sustainability, yet reward the cheapest option every time. David and I dig straight into that tension — the gap between the values we profess and the habits we actually live by.

We also pull apart the cultural contrasts between Canada and the U.S. — healthcare, safety, community, political narratives — and what those differences expose about our beliefs around “freedom” and responsibility.

From youth activism to misogyny, from consumer patterns to the rhetoric creeping into policy conversations, we come back to the same question: Are we curious enough — and honest enough — to challenge the stories we’ve accepted?

Because the real question is simple: What do we truly value, and are we willing to act like it?

Find more info about David Delisle here:

Website: David Delisle

Instagram: David Delisle

Facebook:The Golden Quest | David Delisle

YouTube: David Delisle | TV Personality & Speaker - YouTube

Learn more about David’s financial literacy essentials kit here: The FUN way for Kids (and adults) to Learn about Money

Watch David’s latest Ted Talk: How to start spending, saving, and giving better | David Delisle | TEDxVictoria

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

I’m struck by how much of Caleb Banks and Amy Betzold’s journey began with one radical choice: taking Caleb’s ideas seriously. A single painted horse sparked The Gypsy King, and together they built an entire world from it. Why do we treat kids’ creative instincts as optional instead of worthy of real investment?

What moves me most is how committed they are to doing this right. Historical fiction demands honesty, even when the truth is uncomfortable. They refuse to sanitize the 1840s or gloss over culture, race, or power. Instead, they’re seeking peer reviewers, consulting community voices, and holding themselves accountable. Isn’t that what we should expect from storytellers—people willing to ask the hard questions?

Their process is just as powerful: setting goals, learning craft, surviving a complete rewrite of their opening chapters, and turning a social worker’s suggestion into a real deadline. Add the confidence that comes from speaking publicly and preparing for a book launch, and you see how momentum builds when someone believes in your story.

Imagine what we could unlock if more of us created those environments—where kids, adults, and disabled storytellers are supported simply because their ideas matter. How many worlds go unwritten because we never give them the chance?

More info on Caleb and Amy here: 

Facebook: Caleb Banks and Amy Betzold - Authors

Email: [email protected]

Buy your copy of The Gypsy King via:

Amazon

AuthorHouse

To learn more about the places Caleb & Amy visited, click below: 

Indiana State Museum & Historic Sites 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Gypsy King

03:03 The Origin Story of the Book

05:51 Researching Historical Accuracy

09:02 Scouting Trips and Inspiration

12:05 The Writing Process/Overcoming Challenges

14:49 Feedback and Editing Journey

18:09 Cultural Sensitivity in Storytelling

21:01 The Levi Coffin House and Historical Context

24:04 Character Development and Imaginary Friends

27:00 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers

33:40 Choosing the Right Publishing Path

35:34 Costumes and Creative Processes

38:46 Traveling for Inspiration

42:48 The Artistic Process/Idea Generation

48:34 Inspiring Stories of Success

52:36 The Journey of Becoming an Author

55:57 Advocacy and Encouragement for Others

57:34 The Importance of Reading/Sharing Stories

01:02:38 The Joy of Books and Community

01:04:09 Exploring Historical Literature for Young Readers

01:06:00 The Importance of Museums/Historical Education

01:07:55 Influential Authors and Their Impact on Writing

01:12:02 Community Engagement/Character Development

01:15:05 Cultural Heritage and Local History

01:20:09 Planning a Thematic Book Launch Party

01:24:02 Marketing Strategies for Self-Published Authors

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

In this episode, I sit down with Erin Geddes to explore the emotional and often overlooked experience of growing up neurodivergent without a diagnosis. She shares what it feels like to move through childhood and adulthood believing you’re “not trying hard enough,” when the real issue is that the world isn’t built to recognize or support different ways of thinking. And I have to ask—how many kids are still silently living that reality today?

For Erin, writing her book wasn’t just a creative outlet—it was a process of self-understanding. She has lived her life navigating two different worlds: the neurotypical systems she was expected to fit into, and the neurodivergent identity that finally makes sense of her challenges and strengths. That dual perspective allows her to translate between experiences in a way most people can’t. And it raises an uncomfortable question: why do we keep asking individuals to adapt while our systems stay exactly the same?

When we turn to education, the urgency becomes impossible to ignore. Teachers are overworked and under-supported. Parents are left to advocate alone. Kids are evaluated against standards that ignore the full spectrum of ability, learning styles, and human development. And we still pretend the problem is effort or discipline. Where is the baseline everyone should be guaranteed—food, safety, education, dignity?

Erin argues that neurodivergent voices reveal weaknesses in our systems early and clearly. When we listen, we improve. When we don’t, everyone loses. Inclusion isn’t a favor—it’s how society evolves.

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Find more info on Erin Geddes here:

Get In Touch/School Speaker Requests: [email protected]

Instagram: and_thats_okay_book

Facebook: ⁠ And That's OKAY

YouTube: And That's Okay

Where to buy And That’s Okay: I’m Wired Differently: 

Direct from the publisher Redemption Press AmazonWalmart

I reference a video about Martin Luther King discussing the Civil Rights Movement. You can watch that here:

Eloquent Civil Rights Leaders Dialogue 1963

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Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

We continue our conversation with TK & KT of Allies for Humanity, focusing on the importance of advocacy for autism and the need for community engagement to create meaningful change.

We explore the impact of foster care on children, particularly those with autism, and emphasize the collective responsibility of humanity to support vulnerable populations.

We also look at the role of music and community in healing and fostering hope, as well as the challenges posed by political systems in effecting change, especially in this day and age. We know that we can't rely on the status quo and powers that be to do much. But what kind of revolution will it take?

Ultimately, TK, KT and I call for a shift in narrative and a commitment to action in order to create a better future for all.

Allies For Humanity stands for:

Dignified Housing - "Every person deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and free to be who they are. We co-create sustainable, empowering solutions with our neighbors—honoring housing as a fundamental human right and a foundation for healing." 

• Holistic Well-Being - "True sovereignty begins with well-being. We cultivate mind, body, and spirit by empowering individuals to trust their own wisdom, walk their own path, and receive support through community and holistic healing practices." 
• Radical Transparency - "Trust is built on openness. We practice full transparency in finances, decisions, and impact - ensuring clarity and accountability in all we do." 
• Sacred Reciprocity - "We believe in the power of mutual support. Every act - whether offering skills, time, resources, or presence - plays a vital role in strengthening our community and creating lasting impact."

You can learn more about Allies For Humanity here:

Website: ⁠alliesforhumanity.org⁠

Share your story: ⁠https://www.alliesforhumanity.org/way-to-engage/share-your-story⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠@allies-for-humanity⁠

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

In the first of a two-part episode, I am so pleased to welcome my friends TK and KT to the podcast. They are the co-founders of Allies For Humanity in Indianapolis, an organization dedicated not just to housing those in need but to building strong, healthy communities.

In part one, we explore the themes of autism advocacy, humanity, and the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals, particularly those who are unhoused. We discuss the significance of sovereignty, how small acts of kindness can have a significant impact, and how community support is essential for unhoused individuals.

Small acts of kindness can make such a difference in this world, even when at the same time we fight for the necessity of systemic change to address homelessness and mental health issues. Everyone has the power to contribute to positive change.

Allies For Humanity stands for:

Dignified Housing - "Every person deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and free to be who they are. We co-create sustainable, empowering solutions with our neighbors—honoring housing as a fundamental human right and a foundation for healing." 

• Holistic Well-Being - "True sovereignty begins with well-being. We cultivate mind, body, and spirit by empowering individuals to trust their own wisdom, walk their own path, and receive support through community and holistic healing practices." 
• Radical Transparency - "Trust is built on openness. We practice full transparency in finances, decisions, and impact - ensuring clarity and accountability in all we do." 
• Sacred Reciprocity - "We believe in the power of mutual support. Every act - whether offering skills, time, resources, or presence - plays a vital role in strengthening our community and creating lasting impact."

You can learn more about Allies For Humanity here:

Website: alliesforhumanity.org

Share your story: https://www.alliesforhumanity.org/way-to-engage/share-your-story

Facebook: ⁠@allies-for-humanity

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

Kari Sheward of the Tangram organization in Indianapolis joins me today to talk about their coaching and support work for people with disabilities, but also her perspective on advocacy and choosing the battles that are necessary.

We get pulled in many directions, but this is what brings us back to the collective responsibility to defend rights and advocate for those less able to do so themselves.

We talk about how advocacy requires courage and a willingness to take risks, and how people are watching our actions and responses. Speaking out reduces fear and encourages others, it is collective action that creates that ripple effect.

Community engagement can lead to positive societal change, whether in micro-actions or as an organizer or leader. Everyone's contribution is valued.

This podcast is an effort to encourage that action, no matter where you live, and to bring people and ideas together. In this time of crisis and threat, it is so important to remember that you, I, we: We Are Not Alone.

You can learn more about Kari and Tangram here:

Website: thetangramway.org

Instagram: ⁠@thetangramway

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tangram-business-resourcing

Facebook: @thetangramway

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

In this week's episode, I travel to Oklahoma to meet N'Kiyla Jasmine Thomas, candidate for US Senate, who shares her journey as an autism mom, nurse, and military spouse.

Jasmine and I discuss the importance of indigenous rights, environmental stewardship, and the role of matriarchy in her culture. She also opens up about her personal experiences with motherhood, navigating healthcare systems, and the challenges of being a single mother.

Jasmine's advocacy for autism awareness and the need for resources highlights the struggles faced by families in similar situations.

This was such a wide-ranging discussion, and I'm thankful to Jasmine for her time. I think in turn she was appreciative of having the opportunity and the platform to dive deeper into these topics, to go past the sound bite and short clip. We explore the challenges faced by millennials and younger generations, including the impact of capitalism on mental health, the importance of empathy and community responsibility, and the role of young leaders in politics.

We talk about the need for a more equitable society, the influence of money on social dynamics, and the complexities of racial identity.

Ultimately, this conversation is a message about the importance of working together to build a better America for future generations. We need to be thinking not just 12 months or 2 years ahead, but what kind of society do we want to build, or dare I say: rebuild?

You can learn more about Jasmine and her campaign here:

Website: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.jasmineforok.com

Instagram: @nkiylaforoklahoma

TikTok: @jasmineforok

Facebook: N’Kiyla 'Jasmine' Thomas: U.S. Senate 2026

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

Jennifer Wiese joins me to talk about the importance of including people with disabilities in the workforce, addressing the stigma and barriers that still exist.

Jen is well placed to have a keen perspective on this, as she is the owner with her husband of BeeFree, producers of gluten-free snacks and a true Indiana success story.

Through their non-profit arm, BeeFree Bakes, they provide jobs and resources for adults with autism and other disabilities, empowering them to thrive in a supportive environment. Their oldest son was diagnosed with autism when he was 8 years old, and in their search for resources and support they ultimately took their own initiative to provide these things to others in similar situations.

Jen expresses hope for a future where employers recognize the value of diverse abilities, and see individuals with disabilities as valuable contributors to the workforce. Visibility and representation of people with disabilities is crucial, and we explore how the stigmas surrounding disabilities can be dismantled through awareness.

Find Jen and BeeFree's info here:

Website: ⁠http://beefreegf.com/

https://www.beefreebakes.org/

Instagram: @beefreeglutenfree⁠

TikTok: @beefreeglutenfree, @hifromjen

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeeFreegf

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-wiese-7b98392a

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]

My friend Phoenyx Powell joins me to share her journey as an advocate for accessible travel, discussing her personal experiences with chronic illness, neurodivergence, and the impact of a traumatic brain injury.

Phoenyx emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself while traveling, the need for disability awareness, and the significance of educating children about acceptance and differences. Through her story, Phoenix highlights the challenges but also the triumphs of living with a disability, the role of humor in coping, and the importance of open-mindedness in parenting.

We both feel that there is a responsibility of the current generation to produce good in a complex world, and that travel and cultural immersion go a long way in fostering understanding and connection.

This is a conversation about resilience and joy in navigating life's challenges, and paying it forward through advocacy.

Find Phoenyx's info here:

Website: https://phoenyxtravels.com/

YouTube: @phoenyxtravels

Instagram: @phoenyxtravels

Facebook: @phoenyxtravels

TikTok: @phoenyxtravels⁠

Pinterest: @phoenyxtravels

LinkedIn: @phoenyxpowell

New article: "Phoenyx Powell of Greenville, NC on Life, Lessons & Legacy" (Oct. 15, 2025)

Contact Tabitha:

[email protected]