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When autism intersects with law enforcement, the results can be harmful or even catastrophic without proper training and understanding.

Retired law enforcement commander Bart Barta shares his journey of creating specialized training for first responders after his son's autism diagnosis.

• Started Autism Safety 101 after 31 years in law enforcement and his son's autism diagnosis at age 3
• Individuals with autism are seven times more likely to encounter law enforcement than neurotypical people
• Teaches officers to use simple language, practice patience, and understand sensory issues when interacting with people on the spectrum
• Recommends minimum 4-8 hour in-person training sessions rather than brief online modules
• Shares success story of officers de-escalating a knife situation by discussing the person's special interest in ice hockey
• Emphasizes importance of autism registries with 911 centers to provide critical information to responding officers
• Encourages families to obtain free personalized autism wallet cards at www.justdigit.org to help individuals safely disclose their diagnosis

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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

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Country music and autism awareness come together at Nashville Palace for "An Acoustic Evening for Autism," where artists use their platform to support families affected by autism through the newly formed Country Music Autism Awareness Foundation.

• Doug Mathis explains how his song about an autistic boy named Jack led to creating an annual benefit concert
• The event features performances from Daryl Worley, T Graham Brown, John Barry, and others to raise funds for Vanderbilt's Kennedy Center
• Emcee Devin O'Day shares personal connections to autism and how understanding has evolved over time
• Discussion of how many brilliant artists and songwriters likely fall somewhere on the autism spectrum
• O'Day shares touching story about connecting a high-anxiety horse with an autistic child, finding unexpected harmony
• Plans to expand the Country Music Autism Foundation events to more cities nationwide
• Statistics highlight that one in seven people worldwide know someone with autism in their family

Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me the World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
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https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Dennis Debbaudt shares his 30-year journey addressing autism-related police interactions and developing training programs for law enforcement nationwide.

His pioneering work bridges the gap between public safety professionals and the autistic community through educational materials, videos, and hands-on training that helps prevent tragic misunderstandings.

• Former detective agency owner whose autistic son's diagnosis in the 1980s revealed a complete lack of resources on autism-police interactions
• Created the first-ever training materials addressing autism for law enforcement in the early 1990s
• Highlights the staggering increase in autism prevalence from 2-5 in 10,000 people to today's 1 in 36
• Emphasizes that autistic behaviors can be misinterpreted as drug intoxication or non-compliance
• Teaches officers to recognize "street signs" like autism awareness stickers and specialized terminology
• Promotes techniques including increased personal space, extra processing time, and varied communication approaches
• Focuses on voluntary disclosure strategies and technology tools that can alert first responders
• Trains others to continue his work ensuring that these critical interactions become safer for everyone

If you know anyone who would like to tell their story, send them to TonyMantor.com contact, and they can provide their information to potentially become a guest on our show.

Please tell everyone about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to show that you are not alone in this world.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
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https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Criminal defense attorney Elizabeth Kelley shares her expertise on representing individuals with autism spectrum disorder and mental health conditions in the justice system, revealing how these clients are often misunderstood and how proper legal representation can change outcomes.

• Started career representing a client with intellectual disability who was manipulated into criminal activity
• Defines mental disabilities broadly to include mental illness, intellectual disabilities, and neurological conditions like autism
• Approximately half of people on the autism spectrum also have intellectual disabilities
• Many autistic individuals develop depression or anxiety from years of bullying and social ostracization
• Uses forensic mental health experts to evaluate clients and explain the connection between diagnosis and behavior
• Emphasizes that mental disabilities are not excuses but explanations for behavior
• Highlights that people with mental disabilities are more likely to be crime victims than perpetrators
• Prosecutors serve as gatekeepers to the justice system through charging decisions and plea offers
• Legal options like competency and insanity defenses often inadequate for autism cases
• Advises families to take early legal issues seriously as warning signs
• Recommends pursuing diversionary options whenever possible to avoid permanent records
• Works to educate judges and prosecutors about the reality of mental disabilities

Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Jerry Turning shares his journey from veteran police officer to autism advocate after his son's diagnosis, creating Blue Bridge Autism Training to educate first responders about autism.

His unique perspective bridges the gap between law enforcement and the autism community, helping prevent dangerous misunderstandings during crisis situations.

• Turning spent 22 of his 25-year police career as a canine handler before his son's autism diagnosis changed everything
• Police often misinterpret autism behaviors as intoxication, evasiveness, or defiance due to lack of training
• Turning teaches officers to recognize autism indicators like stimming, echolalia, and sensory challenges
• First responders need to understand they're entering high-stress environments where families may struggle to communicate clearly
• Registration systems allow families to pre-record information about triggers and de-escalation techniques
• Parents should proactively introduce their autistic children to local police during calm periods
• Simple community connections often prove more effective than formal training alone
• Both police and families benefit from approaching these situations with humility and openness

Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Dr. Theresa Haskins shares her journey from a mother seeking answers for her autistic son to becoming an educator and researcher dedicated to creating more inclusive systems for neurodivergent individuals.

Her experiences navigating medical dismissals, educational barriers, and workplace challenges illuminate how society needs to fundamentally shift its approach to neurodiversity.

• Mother of a "thrice exceptional" son (autistic, ADHD, and gifted) who could count to 100 at age two but wasn't speaking conversationally
• Left special education program after realizing conventional teaching approaches didn't align with her son's needs
• Pursued educational psychology and doctorate degrees to understand how to change systems, not just help individuals adapt
• Advocates for autonomous learning and choice-making rather than taking away agency from neurodivergent individuals
• Challenges organizations to focus on meeting people's needs without requiring them to "prove" their disability
• Questions arbitrary job requirements that create barriers for neurodivergent talent
• Emphasizes that different developmental paths aren't lesser ones – just different
• Works with universities, government agencies, and organizations to implement neurodiversity-affirming practices
• Promotes universal design principles that benefit everyone, not just those with disabilities
• Believes we need to value diverse skills and stop measuring everyone against neurotypical milestones

You and your family matter. You exist, you deserve to thrive, you deserve education, you deserve gainful employment, you deserve respect, and that's what we work towards.

https://tonymantor.com
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https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Judge Sonny Bailey shares how she created the nation's only court dedicated to helping autistic youth stay out of the criminal justice system.

What began in 2018 as a quieter courtroom for one overwhelmed teen has evolved into an innovative program with a 90% success rate, recently recognized through Nevada legislation as the country's first official neurodiversity specialty court.

• Autism court began accidentally when officers brought in an overwhelmed teen who needed a quieter environment
• Program uses applied behavioral analysis and positive reinforcement instead of punishment
• Success looks different for each youth—from college preparation to simply learning not to punch walls
• Late diagnosis (some at age 16+) means many youth missed years of early intervention
• Court addresses entire family system through parent training and consistent approaches
• 90% success rate with over 100 graduates since program began
• Program started with minimal resources—"a box of fruit snacks and chips"
• New legislation will expand services to include other forms of neurodiversity
• Many autistic youth are in foster care due to family breakdowns and behavioral challenges
• Parents should immediately alert legal authorities about a child's autism to ensure proper accommodations

If you know anyone who would like to share their story, visit TonyMantor.com/Contact.

Tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to show you are not alone in this world.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us Fan Mail

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What if discovering your true self could transform your entire life journey?
Join me, Tony Mantor, as I sit down with the insightful Gabriella Russo for a powerful discussion on self-discovery and acceptance within the autistic community.
Gabriella shares her personal narrative, revealing how her godchild's involvement with an autism support group prompted her own recognition of being autistic. Through her candid reflections, she recounts overcoming challenges like an abusive marriage and workplace bullying, ultimately embracing her identity and finding solace in self-diagnosis and community support.
Gabriella's story is a testament to the profound impact of understanding one's unique identity, especially when faced with a late autism diagnosis.

Together, Gabriella and I explore the broader landscape of neurodiversity and the importance of advocacy.
We delve into the significance of self-diagnosis, the therapeutic journey to self-acceptance, and the often challenging path autistic individuals face in professional settings.
Discover how self-employment can serve as a refuge, harnessing personal strengths while avoiding burnout.
Our conversation also highlights the critical need for comprehensive training in safeguarding, mental health, and neurodiversity to genuinely support neurodivergent individuals across their lifespan, addressing both their vulnerabilities and their strengths.

Finally, we touch on the complexities surrounding autism diagnoses later in life, particularly for women and people of color.
Gabriella underscores the personal empowerment found in connecting with others who share similar experiences and stresses the importance of therapy and self-acceptance.
As we wrap up, Gabriella shares how she engages with her audience through various platforms, emphasizing advocacy for the autistic community.
We encourage listeners with compelling stories to reach out and perhaps join future episodes, fostering a space for support and continued advocacy.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
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https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Hi, I'm Tony Mantor.

Imagine a world where the rules don't bend.

Where justice feels like a maze with no exit.

For autistic people navigating the legal system, this is not imagination. It's reality. Picture your autistic son or daughter tangled in the legal system or an officer at your door because a meltdown was misunderstood.

Imagine a loved one walking through a park, having a meltdown, which is mistaken for something much worse, a drug overdose.

This Autism Awareness Month, we're bringing you a bold, electrifying, special event.

Why Not Me the World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis special event. We will sit down with judges, lawyers, CIT trainers, therapists, legislators, and more.

They will share gripping stories that will hopefully ignite change.

Understanding can rewrite justice.

Join us.

Help us.

Whatever you do, don't miss it.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us Fan Mail

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Jess Tuff shares her emotional journey as a mother advocating for her autistic daughter while navigating the education system and societal stigma. Her story emphasizes the importance of understanding, acceptance, and the changes needed in how we approach autism, advocating for empathy and resources for families still facing challenges.
• Jess’s experience in special education and her daughter's diagnosis
• The significant role of therapy for both parent and child
• Challenges with educators and the impact of stigma
• The importance of individual support and understanding
• Family dynamics and sibling relationships in autism advocacy
• Hope for the future through technology and community awareness

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. 

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk. 

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

https://tonymantor.com
https://Facebook.com/tonymantor
https://instagram.com/tonymantor
https://twitter.com/tonymantor
https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic
intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.