For more inspired edutainment, visit: www.bebettermedia.tv

Key Points & Memorable Quotes - 

“We are all on, what I like to think of as, the human spectrum.” 14:28

“You meet one person with autism, you’ve met ONE person with autism. “ 22:55

“I think early diagnosis and early intervention is so crucial.” 25:55

“We don’t have rules here, we have agreements with our students.” 37:44

“I cannot stress enough the importance of the right kind of communication, active listening, and really allowing yourself to be open and flexible to life.  Life is dynamic!” 43:16

Guest Bio - Winning her first poetry contest at the tender age of 9 and her first essay contest at 10, writing and speaking have always been natural forms of expression for Gilda Evans. Her entrepreneurial spirit kicked in early and she started her first business while in college. Later, she spent many years in the entertainment media, working as a writer, producer, and director at such venues as CBS, HBO, and Warner Brothers. She also has experience in marketing and PR, as well as licensing and distribution for streaming platforms worldwide. 

Gilda has spent over 20 years researching and seeking answers for how to get her autistic son the things he requires for his education, health, and life in general. She became her son's self-taught advocate and is the creator of the Autism Resource Podcast. Designed for the neurodiverse and disabled communities and those who support them, the podcast deals with a myriad of topics; from education to government benefits to housing and almost everything in-between, and provides a one-stop knowledge and resource base for autism and much more. It is her vision to go beyond the podcast, and create a fully accessible, global resource for these populations that encompasses a broad spectrum of support and services. Following that vision, she is the founder of the Autism Resource Project. Find her at www.autismresourcepodcast.com and on many of your favorite platforms.

Show Notes - 

0:00 - Coming Up on ‘What I Meant to Say’

0:33 - WIMTS Intro

0:55 - Welcome to Gilda Evans

1:46 - Passion & Inspiration Behind the Autism Resource Podcast

8:48 - The Autism Resource Project

11:58 - How to Stay Present with Small Steps

17:13 - What Are Some of the Things You’ve Learned from Your Son?

19:19 - Integrating the Sibling Connection in Your Household

22:19 - Advice for Parents Receiving the Autism Diagnosis 

26:31 - Early Intervention Discussion

33:43 - What’s Your Ideal for Kids in Special Education?

41:35 - Importance of the Challenge-Skills Balance

44:50 - What's Your Son’s Life Like Today?

47:00 - One Piece of Advice to Your Younger Self

47:58 - Thank You & Closing

Links & Where to Find Gilda - 

www. Autismresourcepodcast.com