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What happens when a father, once distant, decides to turn his personal story into a mission of advocacy and change?
In this episode, Jamiel Owens shares his deeply moving journey—from navigating his son’s autism diagnosis to becoming a powerful voice in the autism community. Through personal challenges, professional growth, and community activism, Jamiel illustrates what it means to show up, speak out, and build lasting impact.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Summary:
Jamiel Owens opens up about the early difficulties of accepting his son Shane’s autism diagnosis and his initial absence during that critical time. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares how he chose to grow from that place and step into advocacy. As Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at CHOP and founder of Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel is making systemic change through community outreach, law enforcement training, and parent education. He offers heartfelt advice for other parents—especially fathers—encouraging them to be present, breathe, and build a team around their child. His story is one of redemption, empowerment, and passionate service.
About The Guest:
Jamiel Owens is a dedicated autism advocate, father, and community leader. As the Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and founder of the nonprofit Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel works to build stronger support systems for families of children with autism, with a special focus on underserved communities and emergency preparedness.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 - Fatherhood and Autism: A Personal Journey
03:44 – The Importance of Fathers in Autism
06:31 – Advice for Parents: Breathing and Teamwork
12:09 – Challenges in the Black Community
16:47 – Spiritual Journey and Acceptance
19:30 – Advocacy and Community Work
23:51 – Fire Safety and Law Enforcement Training
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Jamiel Owens on LinkedIn:
Visit Awesomeness Incorporated:
Call to Action:
Inspired by Jamiel’s story?
Tune in to the full episode for a powerful reminder that showing up for your child—and your community—can spark real change.
How does a mother transform personal struggle into professional purpose?
Leah sits down with Tara Trievel — a mother, grandmother, and educator — to explore how her family's autism journey reshaped her life and career.
From late diagnoses to early interventions, Tara opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of parenting neurodivergent children and the tools that helped her thrive.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Summary of the Conversation:
Tara Trievel shares the deeply personal story of raising her autistic daughter, who was diagnosed later in life, and how that experience prepared her to better support her grandson's early autism diagnosis. Professionally, Tara transitioned from being a traditional educator to developing tools and strategies for neurodivergent learners. She introduces the concept of "social thinking," developed by Michelle Garcia Winner, as a critical method for helping autistic children navigate social norms. Tara also reflects on the importance of self-care, particularly for moms dealing with their own physical and emotional changes like perimenopause. Her approach is both practical and empathetic, emphasizing the need for individualized support systems and compassionate parenting.
About the Guest:
Tara Trievel is a mother, grandmother, and educator with decades of experience in teaching and supporting children with autism. Inspired by her personal journey, she now runs programs designed to empower both moms and children through social-emotional learning, perspective-taking, and holistic wellness.
Key Takeaways:
Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction and Welcome
00:16 – Tara's Personal Connection to Autism
01:34 – Professional Journey and Discovering Social Thinking
03:35 – Understanding Perspective Taking
07:21 – Challenges and Strategies in Parenting
13:50 – Second Chances and Learning from Experience
16:55 – Navigating Relationships and Self-Care
23:43 – Support Systems and Final Thoughts
25:18 – Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Parent
25:44 – Introducing the Parenting Program for Moms
26:01 – Understanding Perimenopause and Its Impact
28:49 – Managing Perimenopausal Symptoms
29:27 – The Importance of Holistic Wellbeing
33:05 – Social Thinking Program for Kids
36:07 – Adapting Teaching Methods for Neurodivergent Kids
43:26 – Holistic Approach to Parenting
46:44 – Encouragement for Struggling Moms
48:50 – Final Positive Message for Parents
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Tara Trievel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-trievel-m-ed-certified-autism-specialist-8b6aa589/
Visit Tara Trievel’s website: https://www.2besocial.org/
Call to Action:
Looking for inspiration and practical tools to support your parenting journey?
Tune in to the full episode for honest insights, expert strategies, and a heartfelt conversation that’s sure to uplift.
Feeding therapy can be a complex journey for parents, especially when it comes to children on the autism spectrum. In this episode, occupational therapist Dena Kelly shares her extensive experience working with children facing feeding challenges, from those with neurotypical development to those with complex medical and neurodivergent profiles. She discusses the different approaches to feeding therapy, including sensory-based and behaviorally-based methods, and the critical role of emotional stability for parents during mealtimes. Dena also emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach, involving speech therapists, GI specialists, and nutritionists, to create a comprehensive feeding plan. Tune in to gain practical strategies, valuable insights, and the reassurance that you're not alone on this journey.
Discussion Points:
Summary of the Conversation:
In this insightful episode, Dena Kelly breaks down the complex world of feeding therapy for children on the autism spectrum. She explains how feeding challenges can vary widely, from common developmental delays to more severe medical and neurodevelopmental issues. Dena discusses the pros and cons of different therapeutic approaches, including sensory-based and behaviorally-based methods, and emphasizes the importance of emotional stability for both parents and children. She also highlights the value of collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including occupational therapists, speech therapists, GI specialists, and nutritionists, to create a comprehensive and effective feeding plan. Finally, Dena offers practical tips for parents, reassuring them that they are not alone in this journey.
About The Guest:
Dena Kelly is an experienced occupational therapist specializing in feeding therapy. She has worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum, helping families navigate the challenges of feeding disorders and achieve meaningful progress. Dena’s compassionate approach focuses on empowering parents and building effective, individualized therapy plans.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Background
01:57 Types of Feeding Challenges
04:34 Developmental Feeding Issues
05:57 Behavioral Strategies for Feeding
21:14 Medical Considerations in Feeding
26:29 Feeding Therapy Approaches
39:45 The Importance of Broccoli in Feeding
40:13 Professionals in the Feeding Space
40:46 Occupational Therapy and Feeding
42:41 Speech Therapy and Feeding
43:12 Personal Experiences with Feeding Challenges
44:21 Feeding as a Training Process
45:50 Other Medical Professionals in Feeding
47:20 Emotional Challenges in Feeding
49:27 Tips for Parents to Stay Calm
54:38 Overview of the Feeding Therapy Program
59:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents
01:00:35 Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Dena Kelly on LinkedIn: [LinkedIn profile link]
Visit Dena Kelly's website: [Website link]
Ready to take the next step in supporting your child’s feeding journey? Tune in to the full episode for expert insights and practical strategies.
What happens when your professional path and personal journey collide in the most unexpected way?
In this episode of Autism Roundtable, Taylor Martinez shares how working as a child therapist led her into the autism community — and how her daughter’s diagnosis reshaped her life, both personally and professionally.
Discussion Points:
Summary:
Taylor Martinez opens up about her dual role as a professional in the autism field and as a parent of a child with autism.
She describes how her daughter’s diagnosis of autism and PICA changed her approach to parenting and professional practice.
Taylor integrates ABA techniques into her home life and explores holistic methods like magnesium lotion and essential oils to help with regulation and stress. She highlights the importance of focusing on small wins, maintaining emotional resilience, and leaning on community support to thrive as a family navigating both neurotypical and neurodiverse needs.
About The Guest:
Taylor Martinez is a dedicated RBT trainer and mother of a child with autism. Her unique perspective as both a professional and parent allows her to share relatable, actionable insights for families walking a similar path.
She is passionate about blending evidence-based practices with holistic living to support overall well-being.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00- Taylor's Journey into the Autism Community
02:11 – Balancing Parenting and Professional Life
04:26 – Understanding PICA and Holistic Approaches
08:45 – Implementing ABA Concepts at Home
13:50 – Managing Stress and Parenting Challenges
17:37 – The Impact of Holistic Living
25:27 – Support Systems and Community
29:42 – Overcoming Personal Health Challenges
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Taylor Martinez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apexbehaviorconsulting/
Visit Taylor's website: https://www.apexbehavior.com/
Raising a child with autism is a journey filled with challenges and growth.
Tune in to the full episode to hear Taylor’s inspiring story and discover practical tips for thriving as both a parent and professional.
How do you recognize the early signs of autism—and what should you do next? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Poulos, a pediatric psychologist with deep expertise in developmental assessments for young children, walks us through the process of early autism diagnosis. Whether you're a parent concerned about developmental delays or a professional supporting families, this conversation provides clarity, empathy, and practical guidance for navigating the early years.
Discussion Points:
Summary of the Conversation:
Dr. Jennifer Poulos shares her expert perspective on identifying and diagnosing autism in children aged 0–5. She outlines the typical developmental milestones, when to raise concerns, and how to start the evaluation process. Dr. Poulos explains the nuances of comprehensive assessments, the role of early intervention, and how therapy should be tailored to each child’s unique strengths and challenges. She also provides emotional guidance for families, offering a hopeful and empowering view of what comes after a diagnosis, including support networks and long-term opportunities for individuals on the spectrum.
About The Guest:
Dr. Jennifer Poulos is a pediatric psychologist who specializes in early childhood developmental assessments. Her work focuses on helping families identify and address neurodevelopmental differences in the earliest years, setting children up for the most effective interventions and long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Understanding early signs and navigating insurance
03:36 – How to choose the right specialist
07:19 – The evaluation process
11:00 – What a comprehensive assessment includes
20:21 – Coping with emotions and practical steps post-diagnosis
38:25 – Building community and support
39:11 – Autism statistics and what they mean
39:48 – Employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals
41:10 – What to do after receiving a diagnosis
45:41 – The role of therapy and early intervention
46:51 – Creating individualized therapy plans
51:30 – When and why reevaluation matters
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Dr. Jennifer Poulos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenniferpoulos/
Visit Dr. Jennifer Poulos’s website: https://intownwellness.org/
If you're navigating the early stages of an autism diagnosis—or supporting someone who is—this episode is packed with essential guidance and heartfelt support.
Tune in now to gain clarity, confidence, and hope for the journey ahead.
What if healing your child’s brain started with their gut?
In this powerful episode of Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross sits down with Dr. Hokehe Eko, integrative pediatrician and CEO of Glow Pediatrics, to explore how a holistic approach can transform the lives of children with autism and ADHD.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Dr. Eko explains how her integrative approach looks at the whole child—not just symptoms—emphasizing brain and gut health as central to supporting children with autism and ADHD. She shares how inflammation, often driven by poor diet, can affect mood and cognition, and offers actionable tips for improving sleep, behavior, and emotional regulation. Dr. Eko also highlights the role of parenting and environmental factors, and ends with hopeful stories of transformation from her practice.
About The Guest:
Dr. Hokehe Eko is a board-certified pediatrician and the CEO of Glow Pediatrics. She specializes in integrative and holistic care for children, with a focus on treating root causes rather than symptoms. Her work blends conventional medicine with functional and lifestyle-based approaches to support children’s optimal development.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 - Introducing Dr. Eko: A Holistic Pediatrician
01:58 – The Importance of Holistic Evaluations
03:55 – Brain Health and Inflammation
08:37 – The Impact of Diet on Autism and ADHD
15:23 – Success Stories and Practical Advice
21:32 – Impact of Nutrition on Child Behavior
22:15 – Emotional Health and Parenting
25:22 – Children's Love Letters: A Book Overview
32:38 – The Importance of Sleep for Children
39:14 – Environmental Health and Its Effects
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Dr. Hokehe Eko on Instagram:
Visit Glow Pediatrics: https://www.glowpediatrics.com/
Curious about how holistic care can support your child’s unique needs?
Tune in to the full episode for insights, strategies, and inspiration.
What does it truly mean to raise a child with autism? In this heartfelt episode, Leah Gross sits down with Tonya Newberry to discuss her personal journey as a mother navigating autism, from the first signs to finding the right support system. Tonya shares invaluable insights on early intervention, therapy options, and the power of community support. Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this conversation is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable advice.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:Tonya Newberry shares her powerful journey of raising her son Alexander, from the early signs of autism to the challenges of securing the right therapies. She opens up about the emotional toll of parenting a child with special needs, how she overcame feelings of isolation, and the impact of finding a strong support system. She discusses the role of ABA therapy in helping Alexander develop life skills, communication, and independence. Tonya also shares how her experiences inspired her to start Autism Branches, an organization that provides essential resources and community support to families navigating autism.
About The Guest:Tonya Newberry is a passionate autism advocate and the founder of Autism Branches, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families of children with autism. As a mother navigating her son’s autism diagnosis, she has firsthand experience in seeking therapies, building a support network, and advocating for early intervention. Through her work, she helps other families find the resources and encouragement they need to thrive.
Key Takeaways:Connect with Tonya Newberry & Autism Branches:
Are you navigating the journey of parenting a child with autism? You don’t have to do it alone! Connect with support groups, seek early intervention, and remember—progress takes time. Tune in to the full episode for inspiration, resources, and encouragement.
What’s it really like growing up as a sibling to someone with an intellectual disability? In this heartfelt episode, Abrar Shahin, a BCBA and sibling to an individual with an intellectual disability, shares her personal journey—its challenges, lessons, and triumphs. From childhood confusion and teenage embarrassment to deep admiration and advocacy, she takes us through the emotional evolution of being a sibling and how it shaped her career and life’s mission.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:Abrar Shahin shares an intimate look into her life growing up with an older brother with an intellectual disability. She describes the confusion of her childhood, the emotional turmoil of adolescence, and the eventual acceptance and appreciation she found in adulthood. Throughout her journey, she emphasizes the importance of open conversations, support groups, and seeking proper therapy. She also discusses how her experiences led her to become a BCBA, dedicating her life to helping families navigate similar challenges. Abrar offers invaluable advice to both parents and siblings, encouraging them to embrace their unique journey with understanding and patience.
About The Guest:Abrar Shahin is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with a passion for working with individuals with disabilities. Inspired by her brother, she dedicated her career to helping families access the support and resources they need. Through her work, she empowers both individuals with disabilities and their families to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and compassion.
Key Takeaways:✅ It’s normal for siblings to feel a mix of emotions. Frustration, embarrassment, and even resentment are common feelings, but they don’t define your relationship.
✅ Honest conversations matter. Parents should explain a sibling’s disability in age-appropriate ways from an early age.
✅ Community and support groups can make all the difference. Finding others in similar situations can provide comfort and guidance.
✅ ABA therapy and other resources are crucial. Proper interventions can help individuals with disabilities develop functional skills that benefit the whole family.
✅ Siblings of individuals with disabilities develop unique strengths. Patience, resilience, and deep compassion often come from this experience.
Time Stamps:🟢 [00:00] Introduction – Abrar Shahin’s background and connection to the topic
🟢 [01:28] Early childhood memories of growing up with a brother with an intellectual disability
🟢 [06:42] The struggles of adolescence – embarrassment, frustration, and social challenges
🟢 [18:38] The transformation into adulthood – learning to embrace and advocate
🟢 [29:41] How her experience led her to become a BCBA
🟢 [40:31] Advice for parents – balancing attention between children and using resources
🟢 [47:47] A message for siblings – your feelings are valid, and you’ll grow stronger from this experience
Connect with Abrar Shahin:📌 LinkedIn: [Insert Link]
📌 Website: [Insert Link]
Call to Action:Are you a parent navigating the balance between caring for a child with a disability and supporting their siblings? Or are you a sibling struggling with mixed emotions? This episode is for you! Tune in now to hear Abrar’s incredible journey and gain insights on how to turn challenges into strengths.
What is ABA therapy, and how can it help children with autism thrive?
In this episode, host Leah Gross welcomes Rosie Neustadt, clinical director at Circle Care Services, to break down the fundamentals of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.
Together, they explore how ABA works, its evolution over the years, and its impact on children with autism.
Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or professional, this conversation provides invaluable insights into ABA therapy in 2025.
Discussion Points:Rosie Neustadt shares her journey into the field of ABA and explains how it has transformed the lives of many children with autism. She breaks down the individualized nature of ABA therapy, its evidence-based approach, and how it adapts to each child's needs. Rosie also discusses the evolution of ABA, moving away from outdated methods toward a more trauma-informed, positive reinforcement model. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to take an active role in their child’s ABA therapy, making it a collaborative and empowering experience.
About The Guest:Rosie Neustadt is the Clinical Director at Circle Care Services, an ABA agency serving over 500 children with autism. With over 14 years in the field, Rosie has worked as a BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst) and now oversees a team of 150 BCBAs. She is passionate about helping children reach their full potential through individualized ABA programs.
Key Takeaways:[00:01] – Introduction to the episode and guest introduction
[02:05] – Rosie's background and journey into ABA
[05:43] – What is ABA therapy? Breaking down the terminology
[09:46] – Skills addressed in ABA: Communication, social skills, behavior management
[27:37] – Where is ABA therapy provided? Home, school, daycare, and community settings
[30:20] – The team behind ABA therapy: BTs vs. BCBAs
[35:39] – Why has ABA therapy grown in popularity?
[37:19] – Addressing negative perceptions of ABA therapy
[42:12] – Success stories and ABA’s impact on children and families
[47:06] – Practical tips for parents and caregivers
[53:32] – Final message of hope for parents considering ABA
Links for the Guest:Connect with Rosie Neustadt at Circle Care Services
Are you considering ABA therapy for your child? This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. Tune in now and empower yourself with knowledge!
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