THE SJ CHILDS SHOW

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What if you could find peace and purpose after facing life's toughest challenges? Join us in this episode as we uncover the inspiring journey of Gage, a passionate advocate for autism awareness who transformed his early struggles into a powerful voice for change. Diagnosed with autism at age five, Gage didn't speak until then and found solace in building snack-box towers. His story is a testament to resilience and personal growth, taking us from a young boy in Pennsylvania to a determined advocate in Florida.

Gage opens up about confronting trauma and depression, particularly during the pandemic, a time that demanded introspection and healing. With the support of his older brother, who introduced him to meditation and personal growth practices, Gage navigated the challenges, learning patience and self-respect through his experiences at a diner. A pivotal move to Florida marked a new beginning, filled with optimism and the pursuit of his dreams. We explore how these experiences shaped Gage's journey towards becoming a motivational speaker, reigniting his passion through opportunities like the ICANN autism conference and Toastmasters.

Dive into the importance of spreading awareness and acceptance within the autism community through platforms like Gage's podcast, Autism Talk. By showcasing uplifting stories of individuals who overcome challenges without adopting a victim mindset, Gage aims to inspire and educate listeners. Be ready to hear heartfelt advice for parents of children with autism and encouraging words for adults diagnosed later in life. This episode is a celebration of potential, collaboration, and the power of sharing impactful stories that uplift and inspire.

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Daniel Durany's journey from job losses to discovering his place on the autism spectrum offers a raw and inspiring narrative. His experiences growing up in a socially reserved family, juxtaposed with his outgoing nature, shed light on the complexities of forming friendships and finding one's identity. As we catch up with Daniel, he shares his insights from navigating the world as a sports referee and the joys and challenges of fatherhood, all while advocating for greater understanding and acceptance within the autism community.

The path for an autistic entrepreneur can be fraught with unique challenges, but Daniel's story is one of resilience and innovation. We discuss the often overlooked career skills essential for success and the strategy of balancing multiple jobs, akin to managing a stock portfolio. Daniel's reflections on the value of diverse experiences highlight the creativity and adaptability that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table, challenging conventional career paths and expectations.

As the conversation unfolds, we explore the power of diverse skill sets and meaningful connections. Daniel's anecdotes underscore the importance of empathy and listening in relationships, whether in marriage or professional settings. Mentorship emerges as a crucial element for neurodivergent individuals, and we eagerly anticipate Daniel's upcoming speaking engagements in Oklahoma and Texas. This episode is a call to action to stay connected through social media and to continue supporting Daniel's endeavors in creating a more inclusive world.

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What happens when a childhood dream takes an unexpected detour through the world of speechwriting only to emerge as a vibrant career in adolescent fiction? That's what our guest reveals as she recounts her unique journey towards becoming an author, inspired by personal experiences and a flair for capturing diverse voices. Discover how her life as a mom, wife, and writer intertwines, offering a refreshing take on managing a bustling household while nurturing a passion for storytelling. Her books, "Hurricamp" and "Miscommunicamp," embody this lively blend of humor and heart, connecting with readers in ways that are both engaging and deeply personal.

As we explore the power of literature to forge connections, particularly with young readers, our conversation turns to the influence of literary giants like Beverly Cleary and Judy Blume. These authors have left an indelible mark on our guest, driving her belief in the importance of relatable characters that foster a lifelong love for reading. We also discuss the myriad ways books can reach diverse audiences, from traditional hard copies to e-books and audiobooks, ensuring every reader finds their unique gateway to the literary world. The impact of early literacy programs and creative strategies, such as brainstorming and journaling, also come to light, showcasing their crucial role in a writer's toolkit.

Navigating personal identity in the digital age can be as amusing as it is challenging, and our guest shares her humorous encounters with name confusions and the intricacies of personal branding. Through these tales, she emphasizes the importance of dreams and the excitement of future projects, offering a peek into her upcoming literary ventures and the supportive community that surrounds her. Whether you're a seasoned writer or an aspiring one, this episode promises a wealth of inspiration, laughter, and the anticipation of stories yet to come.

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Aaron DeVries, a devoted advocate for disability inclusion, brings his heartfelt journey to our conversation, inspired by his daughter's battles with epilepsy and cerebral palsy. As a father navigating a predominantly female advocacy space, Aaron shares the importance of belonging over merely fitting in, urging more fathers to lend their voices to the cause. We explore how personal experiences, including his upbringing, have shaped Aaron's advocacy approach, encouraging others to question societal norms and embrace emotional sensitivity.

Facing the daunting transition from pediatric to adult care, Aaron offers invaluable insights for parents of children with disabilities. We discuss the challenges of managing medical and educational environments that change with age, underscoring the need for proactive advocacy and early planning. Through Aaron's experiences, we learn the importance of balancing family life with therapy demands, and recognizing the human side of medical professionals to ensure the best care for children.

Aaron's Inclusive Dad Podcast becomes a beacon for promoting a more inclusive world through honest conversations and small actions. We delve into the unexpected opportunities that arise from following one's passion, like starting a podcast, and the empowerment it brings to those who share their stories. Wrapping up with a lighthearted weather chat between Minnesota and Utah, we find appreciation for the changing seasons, much like the transformative change in attitudes towards inclusion that Aaron champions.

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Join us for an enlightening conversation with Healey Ikerd, a seasoned licensed counselor from Arkansas who brings 17 years of expertise in mental health to our discussion. Healey passionately shares her journey from working with children to focusing on adults in her private practice, and the significance of modeling good mental health practices. Her insights are not just professional but deeply personal, as she draws from her experiences. Discover how believing in one's potential can transform lives, and why teaching children coping skills is more crucial now than ever.

Our chat takes an intriguing turn as we explore the transformative power of therapy through compelling personal stories. You'll hear about how therapy helped an individual overcome a challenging upbringing in group homes and juvenile detention, finding clarity and purpose along the way. Healey highlights how children's books are not just tales but powerful tools for emotional learning and forgiveness. The stories serve as a bridge between personal anecdotes and broader discussions on inclusion and kindness, with a sneak peek into Healey's upcoming children's book inspired by her family's history.

In the realm of anxiety management, we unravel both adult and child-friendly strategies, showcasing the journey of writing books that foster discussions on important topics. Healey's personal experiences with anxiety pave the way for practical insights on transforming fear into a friend rather than a foe. We discuss adventurous activities that stretch comfort zones and promote growth, while Healey shares her new book, "The Anxious Little Goat," which creatively blends education and reassurance. As we wrap up with tales of farm life and healthy living, you'll be inspired to embrace life's adventures and challenges with a fresh perspective.

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What happens when you challenge societal norms and prove the naysayers wrong? Join us as Christian takes us through his inspiring journey from overcoming the stigma of autism to becoming a beacon of hope and inclusion. Diagnosed in 2001, when understanding was limited, Christian defied discouraging predictions of his future by breaking stereotypes. From obtaining his driver’s license to becoming a passionate public speaker, he embodies resilience and determination. Discover how celebrating small wins, embracing unique learning styles, and leveraging social media can promote understanding and inclusion, as shared by Christian, who encourages everyone to harness their strengths and challenge assumptions.

Christian's story doesn't stop at defying odds; it transforms into a powerful narrative of self-discovery and empowerment amidst life’s challenges. Navigate through his battles with depression, the need for mental health breaks, and the demanding pressure to conform to societal norms. Listen as he emphasizes the importance of friendships, generational differences, and the synergy between neurodivergent and neurotypical communities for mutual growth. Through vulnerability and collaboration, Christian invites us all to step beyond our comfort zones, try new things, and embrace inclusivity. Tune in to learn how Christian’s message of unity and hope can inspire you to build a supportive community and foster a more inclusive world.

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What happens when an occupational therapist and a devoted mother come together to tackle the pressing issues surrounding autistic adult transition support? Join us in a heartfelt exchange with April as we uncover the real challenges faced by autistic individuals and their families as they step into adulthood. With April's personal journey as both a professional and a parent, we navigate the complexities of post-secondary education and the glaring gaps in autism-specific services, particularly in states like Kentucky. Our conversation sheds light on the vital need for a unified system across states, ensuring these talented individuals find their rightful place in society with the necessary accommodations in housing and employment.

Prepare to be inspired as we offer strategies for parents bracing for the transition of their autistic children from high school to the broader world. We stress the importance of early preparation and realistic assessments, helping families align their children’s aspirations—be it college, employment, or unique interests like video gaming—with the right opportunities. Discover the value of community resources, ongoing education, and the collective push for legislative change, especially as autism prevalence climbs. As our dialogue wraps up, feel the warmth of future collaboration and genuine connection, as April and I share our mutual enthusiasm for continued advocacy and support for autistic adults.

Adulting with Autism Podcast
https://adultingwithautismpodcast.podbean.com/

https://www.sjchilds.org

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Navigating the emotional waves of an autism diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but it also opens doors to empowerment and understanding. Join us as we share the emotional journey of embracing this new reality, featuring Bridget Hamstead, the visionary behind Vishnu Tree. Bridget offers valuable insights on transforming initial fears into a sense of freedom, where families can tap into resources, educate others, and find strength in supportive communities. We honor lives lost to suicide within the neurodiversity community, highlighting the urgent need for compassionate and tailored support systems. Through these conversations, we aim to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment for all neurodivergent individuals.

Unpacking the unique challenges within the autistic community, we address how race, gender, and sexual orientation intersect to impact mental health and suicidality. Alarming statistics reveal the compounded risks faced by autistic individuals, calling for early diagnosis and neurodiversity-affirming mental health services. This episode advocates for the training of mental health professionals to meet the complex needs of this community. We emphasize the power of human connection through personal stories of struggle and resilience, expressing gratitude for the voices rising above adversity and showcasing the importance of vulnerability in building community. Together, these narratives create a tapestry of empathy and understanding, reminding us of our collective strength.

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Join us as we welcome the remarkable Tamika Lechee Morales, founder of the Autism Hero Project. Born from her personal journey with her son's autism and ADHD diagnosis, Tamika's nonprofit has been a beacon of hope since 2015. Originally focusing on providing essential medical insurance in Illinois, the Autism Hero Project has grown to include educational scholarships, inclusive events, and first responder training. Tamika opens up about the raw and emotional process of accepting her son's diagnosis and shares how building a supportive community has been crucial.

We'll also tackle the real-life challenges and triumphs of raising a neurodiverse child. From transitioning between school stages to the importance of self-regulation and acceptance, we discuss it all. Hear firsthand about impactful initiatives like Autism Acceptance Week and practical strategies such as noise-canceling headphones for public outings. This episode is a heartfelt celebration of neurodiversity and underscores the necessity for empathy, understanding, and celebrating the unique qualities of autistic individuals. Don't miss this powerful conversation!

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What makes Stephen Wright's surreal humor so uniquely captivating? Join us as our friend Andrew, known for his sharp wit and keen intellect, takes us on a journey through Wright's world of deadpan delivery and bizarre punchlines. Discover how Wright’s offbeat humor resonates profoundly with the autistic experience, turning what many see as different into a source of beauty and laughter. Andrew draws fascinating parallels between Wright's jokes and the way those on the autism spectrum interpret rules and definitions, offering insights that will make you see humor in a whole new light.

But that’s not all! Andrew's wisdom extends beyond comedy as he navigates the challenges faced by autistic individuals, especially in the healthcare system. We highlight the alarming statistics and personal stories that underscore the urgent need for better insurance coverage. Through Andrew's anecdotes and light-hearted humor, we touch on serious issues with a sprinkle of laughter, advocating for a more inclusive environment. This episode is a heartfelt blend of comedy, meaningful reflection, and a call for better communication and care for everyone.