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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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

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Lady Miranda shares her journey as an autistic artist navigating the music industry while managing sensory overload and performance challenges. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society.

• Being an autistic artist comes with unique challenges 
• Travel can induce sensory overload and anxiety 
• Performance preparation is crucial for managing stage anxiety 
• Meltdowns can occur due to stress or overstimulation 
• Late diagnosis in adulthood is common in women 
• Family support often lacks understanding of autism 
• Advocacy for changing societal perceptions of autism 
• Future aspirations include education and workforce inclusivity initiatives

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What happens when a corporate professional turns a personal health crisis into a transformative journey of healing and understanding? 
Join us as we explore Emma Textra's remarkable story, where her corporate acumen meets her passion for holistic health to better support her autistic son. Emma's shift from conventional medicine to embracing dietary changes, nutrient therapy, and supplements is a testament to the power of addressing the whole body. 
Her insights and experiences uncover the intricate connections between physical and mental health, offering a new perspective on managing Asperger's and ADHD.

The teenage years are challenging for any parent, but when your child has neurodiverse needs, the stakes are higher. 
Emma shares the effective interventions that have helped her son navigate adolescence, from the use of probiotics and supplements like True Hope Empower Plus to the transformative effects of neurofeedback on social skills. She opens up about the unique challenges brought on by the social isolation of COVID, and how tailored strategies, encouragement, and social skills classes have played crucial roles in building her son's confidence and independence. 
Her story is one of resilience and hope, offering invaluable insights for parents in similar situations.

Emma's dedication to understanding the root causes of health issues goes beyond her personal story. 
She advocates for natural health alternatives and emphasizes the importance of nutrition, exercise, and a holistic approach to mental health. 
Drawing from her book, "How to Be a Healthy Human," Emma sheds light on the impact of toxins and pharmaceuticals on our well-being, urging a shift towards identifying root causes rather than just treating symptoms. 
Her journey serves as a guiding light for anyone looking to explore natural methods for supporting behavioral and mental health challenges, especially in a world filled with environmental toxins.

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intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild
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