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Dr. Gilly Kahn brings a refreshing perspective to our understanding of ADHD, particularly in women, through her dual expertise as both a clinical psychologist and someone with lived experience. Her powerful reframing of ADHD not as an attention deficit but as an "overabundance of attention" challenges conventional thinking about neurodiversity in ways that will resonate deeply with listeners.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is how Dr. Kahn bridges the gap between clinical knowledge and authentic human experience. She vividly describes the ADHD mind as having "a 1920s Great Gatsby party in your brain while trying to do homework" – an image that perfectly captures the overwhelming sensory and cognitive experience many with ADHD navigate daily. This isn't just theoretical understanding; it's rooted in compassion and lived reality.

The discussion takes us through several critical topics: misconceptions about ADHD (particularly how hyperfocus on interesting activities doesn't disprove ADHD), the science behind medication options (including fascinating research on neuropromotion), and how neurodivergent brains process information differently as "field-dependent learners." Throughout, Dr. Kahn maintains a balanced approach, acknowledging that while research strongly supports certain interventions, treatment choices remain deeply personal.

Perhaps most powerfully, Dr. Kahn shares insights from her upcoming book "Allow Me to Interrupt," which launches September 9th. The Shakespeare-inspired work promises to illuminate the emotional realities of women with ADHD in ways that both validate their experiences and educate others. Her parting advice resonates as both scientific conclusion and profound wisdom: "They don't know you as well as you know yourself." For anyone navigating neurodiversity – whether personally or supporting others – this conversation offers both practical understanding and the courage to trust your own experience despite external judgment or misunderstanding.

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Bryson Tarbet, founder of That Music Teacher, takes us on a captivating journey through the world of accessible music education. Drawing from his personal experience with ADHD and sensory processing disorder, Bryson reveals how his quest to make the classroom more comfortable for himself evolved into a mission to ensure music is truly accessible for all students.

What begins as a conversation about simple seating arrangements quickly expands into a masterclass on creating fully inclusive music environments. Bryson shares practical approaches like offering flexible seating options, adapting instruments with occupational therapists, and color-coding sheet music to help students make visual connections between notation and instrument fingerings. His ingenious solutions range from simple rubber bands that help students grasp mallets to sophisticated one-handed recorders for students with physical disabilities.

Beyond the technical aspects of accessibility, Bryson offers a profound perspective on the psychological importance of inclusive music education. He explains how introducing instruments like recorders can create a level playing field where students who typically struggle academically can shine, as everyone starts at the same point regardless of past performance. This insight challenges us to rethink how we structure music education to ensure all students have opportunities to succeed.

The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Bryson reveals how COVID-19 forced him to explore alternatives to traditional performance-based music education. This led to the discovery that many seemingly disengaged students were actually deeply musical—they simply resonated with production or technology rather than performance. This revelation has powerful implications for expanding our conception of what music education can and should be.

Ready to make your music classroom more inclusive? Follow @thatmusicteacher on Instagram and visit thatmusicteacher.com to access free resources and join the waitlist for the upcoming Elementary Music Summit, where educators worldwide connect to share ideas for creating truly accessible music education.

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Angela Fowler, a totally blind accessibility consultant from California, transforms our understanding of digital inclusion in this compelling conversation that challenges common misconceptions while offering practical solutions.

The eye-opening discussion begins with Angela sharing her evolution from passionate disability rights advocate to dedicated educator. This transition occurred when she realized that most designers, developers, and business leaders aren't deliberately creating inaccessible experiences—they simply lack awareness about accessibility needs and benefits. Her realization highlights a critical messaging problem in society: we're not educating people effectively about why accessibility matters and how to implement it properly.

Angela brilliantly dismantles two harmful myths about accessibility. First, she explains that accessibility isn't just for "those disabled people over there" but creates better experiences for everyone. From clearly labeled buttons that help all users navigate websites to wider store aisles and quieter restaurants that enhance everyone's experience, accessibility features have universal benefits. Second, she challenges the notion that accessibility is prohibitively expensive, advocating instead for a harm reduction approach that prioritizes fixing critical barriers first while gradually implementing other improvements.

For businesses and website owners, Angela offers invaluable practical advice: WordPress provides more accessible options than drag-and-drop builders; hiring developers who prioritize accessible user experiences saves money in the long run; and taking small, consistent steps toward accessibility demonstrates good faith efforts that can provide both practical and legal benefits. She also shares thoughtful guidance on interacting respectfully with disabled people—ask if help is needed rather than assuming, respect autonomy, and remember that disability is just one aspect of a person's identity.

Looking toward the future, Angela envisions a cultural shift away from models that emphasize dependency toward an approach that celebrates unique capabilities and contributions. Ready to make your digital presence more accessible? Visit RealLifeAccess.com to connect with Angela and start your accessibility journey today.

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Welcome to a sneak peek into The International Autism Summit 2024 with special guest speaker Devin Morrisey

When doctors told three-year-old Devin Morrissey he would never graduate high school, attend college, or live independently, they couldn't have imagined he would one day help transform how the world sees autism. In his powerful presentation "Bringing Autism to the Center Stage," Devin takes us on a journey from his childhood diagnosis to becoming a Netflix personality, podcast host, and fierce advocate who consistently defies expectations.

Growing up in Danville, California in the 1990s when autism was often viewed as a "death sentence," Devin didn't learn about his own diagnosis until age twelve. This revelation explained why he had been pulled from recess for various therapies and why certain aspects of social interaction felt challenging. Though initially struggling with this identity, Devin eventually embraced that "being normal is completely overrated" and that his differences were strengths to be celebrated.

Devin's accomplishments speak volumes: bachelor's degrees in liberal arts and music from Whittier College, a master's degree from USC completed during the pandemic, experience as an elementary school teacher, and now working as a recruitment coordinator at Sabacon, a neurodiverse recruiting firm. Perhaps most recognizably, he appears as Dani Bowman's best friend on Netflix's Emmy Award-winning "Love on the Spectrum US," offering dating advice and support while helping bring authentic autism representation to mainstream media.

Beyond the screen, Devin amplifies autistic voices through his blog "Autistic Superpower" and podcast "Autistically Unapologetic," where he interviews other autistic trailblazers about their experiences. Most recently, he's returned to his performing roots by joining Epic Players LA, a neurodiversity theater company, combining his passion for performance with autism advocacy.

Ready to embrace your own authentic story? Follow Devin's journey at www.autisticsuperpower.com or on Instagram @DevinMorrissey and discover how one voice can help break stigmas, defy limitations, and inspire a movement of acceptance.

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How do you navigate the complex landscape of parenting adult children while fostering their independence? In this enlightening episode, we delve into the essential principles of navigating this transition with love, support, and a focus on boundaries. Our expert guest, a seasoned psychologist, offers invaluable strategies that help parents understand the dual roles of love and discipline when guiding their children into adulthood. 

From discussing the varying challenges young adults face, especially those with developmental disabilities, to practical tips on creating a five-year plan together, each segment is designed to empower parents to foster emotional and social growth while allowing for independence. Discover how focusing on intentional parenting and recognizing cultural biases surrounding independence can significantly impact both your relationship and your child’s trajectory. 

Join us on this journey of understanding how to let go while reinforcing the bond that sustains a nurturing family dynamic. We encourage you to reflect on your experiences and engage with our community—subscribe, share your thoughts, and leave a review to help us support families embarking on their parenting journey.

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What does it mean to truly support special needs families, and how can we as a community come together to offer that support? In our latest episode, we bring you a heartfelt conversation with John Fela, a dedicated advocate who has turned his personal journey as a parent of a nonverbal autistic son into a powerful mission working with Joni and Friends, a global Christian disability ministry. John's inspiring story of creating a support group for special needs dads not only highlights the importance of community but also reveals the transformative power of shared experiences. Join us as we promise to open your eyes to the resilience and hope that emerge when families navigate the complexities of autism together.

Navigating the world of special needs parenting comes with its unique set of challenges and victories, especially for single parents. Drawing from real-life experiences, we share stories of overcoming fears and breaking through isolation by building connections with other parents and community organizations. Schools, churches, and local groups all play pivotal roles in this journey, offering vital support from early childhood into adolescence and beyond. We explore how preparing for guardianship and continuously adapting to the needs of the autistic community requires a deep understanding and unwavering commitment to inclusion.

Churches have a unique opportunity to foster genuine acceptance for families and individuals with disabilities, moving beyond surface-level inclusion. John Fela shares invaluable insights into how religious communities can create environments that truly celebrate all abilities, encouraging meaningful participation. We touch on the future concerns many parents face, urging church leadership to develop sustainable programs that address these anxieties. As we wrap up, we express gratitude for the stories of courage and resilience shared, reminding us all of the enduring impact these narratives hold. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and a promise of community support that shines brightly.

www.johnfela.com

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Leroy Slanzi, an educator whose journey ranges from principal roles worldwide to his fulfilling work at an Indigenous school in British Columbia. This episode sheds light on the nuances of global educational systems, highlighting Canada’s impressive standing in education. Leroy offers insights into how the digital age and environmental factors are reshaping student behavior, and why emotional intelligence and holistic learning are critical in today's classrooms.

We dive deep into the urgent need for emotional education in schools, where traditional subjects often overshadow social-emotional learning. Facing a looming mental health crisis, we discuss equipping educators and students alike with the tools necessary for emotional intelligence. I also introduce my books as resources, offering pathways through these challenges and advocating for the integration of play to combat the decline in children's perseverance and grit. Together, we strive to fill the missing piece in the education system, championing a holistic approach for nurturing well-rounded children.

The episode doesn't just stop at theory—it explores practical implementation through emotional audits in schools, which help boost emotional intelligence and well-being. Imagine schools where a common emotional language and mindfulness practices are part of everyday life, aiding not just students but teachers as well. We also touch on the unique needs of children with autism, advocating for environments that allow their emotional growth. By fostering empathy and compassion, we aim to inspire a transformation in how education meets the emotional needs of all its students.

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Anneke Elmhirst, a coach with a unique focus on neurodivergence, shares her transformative journey from behavior analysis to coaching. We explore the complexities of ADHD and autism, challenging the conventional one-size-fits-all approach and advocating for a personalized understanding of mental health. Anneke 's shift was driven by a need for values alignment, and she provides insight into how late diagnoses can manifest differently across individuals. Together, we question the efficacy of standard medical testing for atypical brains and highlight how identifying with neurodivergent labels can foster community building and support.

Imagine transitioning from a traditional career path to the dynamic world of relationship coaching. We dive into the motivations and personal experiences behind such dramatic shifts, using a metaphor to compare therapists to contractors who fix problems, while coaches are like interior designers who enhance and personalize spaces. We emphasize the importance of standards and ethics in coaching, particularly for neurodiverse individuals, while discussing how therapy and coaching can complement each other. Self-reflection is another key topic, as understanding one's desires is crucial for effective communication and relationship success.

The journey of self-love and personal growth takes center stage, highlighting the importance of fostering confidence from an early age. Through heartfelt anecdotes, we discuss the impact of community support and the power of love in shaping young lives. Anneke 's inspiring work in creating spaces where people feel valued is celebrated, emphasizing empathy and understanding as tools for empowerment. With aspirations for writing and self-education, we reflect on the potential for personal growth and the thrill of embracing the unknown, all while expressing gratitude for the positive impact of our guest's contributions to the community.

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Discover the inspiring journeys of Marlene and Judi, two extraordinary advocates reshaping the autism community. Judi, the mastermind behind Autism and Entertainment and leader of the Orange County Asperger Support Group, reflects on her dual role as a mother and high-tech marketing professional. Marlene, with her rich experience in animation as a producer and writer, shares her vision for bridging education with the entertainment industry through her work with the Center for Learning Unlimited. Together, they reveal the story behind their innovative autism and entertainment conference that has become a cornerstone for community and connection.

Experience the magic as we recount the triumphs of the autism conference, initially conceived during a casual meeting in May 2022 and growing into an unexpected success with over 400 attendees. This vibrant gathering, graced by speakers like Jorge Gutierrez, was more than just an event; it was a celebration of belonging, healing, and joyful reunions. Marlene and Judi’s pioneering efforts underscore the transformative power of networking, as the conference sparked organic partnerships and lifelong friendships, providing a platform for hope and collaboration within the entertainment industry.

Embrace the future of autism advocacy and employment as we explore innovative strategies for personal and professional growth. Exciting initiatives, such as incorporating Toastmasters programs, are enhancing communication skills and empowering individuals on the spectrum to overcome employment challenges. By addressing concerns like the fear of losing benefits, these efforts are paving the way for a more inclusive workforce. Through the spirit of collaboration and community building, this episode invites listeners to participate in a movement where success is shared, and everyone thrives together.

• Importance of community support and networking
• Personal journeys advocating for autism in entertainment
• Statistics on unemployment in the autistic community and the need for change
• Themes of empowerment and the "superpowers" of autistic individuals
• Successful outcomes from the Autism and Entertainment Conference
• Addressing fears surrounding failure as part of personal and professional growth
• Future projects and continued advocacy for autistic individuals
• Insight into Social Security challenges faced by autistic adults

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Ever wondered how a personal journey can ignite a movement that changes lives? Meet Tamika Lecheé Morales, the dedicated founder of the Autism Hero Project, who turned her son Legend's autism diagnosis into a mission to transform the landscape for autistic individuals and their families. From offering crucial medical insurance to pioneering educational scholarships and hosting inclusive community events, learn how the Autism Hero Project is making a real difference. Tamika's story is not just about overcoming challenges; it's about creating opportunities and bridging gaps for those who need it most.

Join us as we explore the emotional terrain of living with autism and the supportive networks that form in its wake. Discover the raw honesty of families navigating this journey, confronting societal perceptions, and finding beauty in neurodiversity. Through heartfelt narratives and shared experiences, Tamika illuminates the transformative power of understanding and acceptance, emphasizing that autism affects entire families, fostering connections that are both profound and enduring.

The episode also showcases the broader advocacy work being done to raise autism awareness and acceptance. From legislative victories like Autism Acceptance Week in Illinois to practical tools like noise-canceling headphones, Tamika and the Autism Hero Project are leading efforts to create a compassionate world for neurodiverse individuals. Discover how their expanding outreach through social media is helping to spread this vital message and how you can be part of this inspiring journey toward inclusivity.

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