In this heartwarming and insightful episode of What’s New on JCrew, we sit down with 10-year-old Bailee Joseph, proud big (and little) sister to BJ, who is on the autism spectrum. From everyday learning moments to unforgettable milestones, Bailee opens up about what it’s like growing up with a sibling who has special needs—and how it’s shaped her into a thoughtful, patient, and compassionate leader.

🎧 In this special sibling edition, we explore:

• Bailee’s favorite moments with BJ, including teaching him how to play basketball
• Her proudest memories, like BJ learning to use the bathroom independently
• Her honest curiosity about BJ’s behaviors, like stemming
• Encouragement for other siblings in similar situations
• Her powerful message: “It’s a journey with ups and downs, but be ready to help when you’re needed.”

Whether it's cheering BJ on at the Special Olympics track or simply sharing family time at Universal Studios, Bailee reminds us that love, support, and understanding go a long way in the autism community.

💙 Tune in for a refreshing and inspiring perspective—from a sibling who shows us what it means to lead with heart.

📍 Be sure to like, share, and subscribe to the What’s New on JCrew podcast. Join us each week as we raise awareness, celebrate families, and build community through authentic conversation.

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In this heartfelt and powerful episode of What's New in J. Crew, we sit down with longtime educator and coach Steve Smith, a dedicated advocate for students with autism and developmental disabilities. With over a decade of experience in special education, Coach Steve shares meaningful insights on building trust, creating safe learning environments, and the importance of patience and love when working with individuals on the spectrum.

We dive into:

• The significance of emotional connection in special education
• Real classroom experiences and wins from the week
• Strategies for promoting cooperative play and self-advocacy
• How to avoid power struggles and promote student growth
• Reflections on parenthood, purpose, and community support

Whether you're a parent, educator, or someone who simply cares about creating inclusive spaces, this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and real-life tools to help support the autism and special needs community.

💙 Tune in, be inspired, and learn how love and respect can truly change lives.

📍 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to stay connected with all things J. Crew Foundation.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this inspiring episode of What's New on JCrew, host Branden Joseph welcomes a true champion for the autism community, Pornesha Orr, to discuss her journey of advocacy, healing, and building safe spaces for parents of children with developmental disabilities.

Pornesha shares the heart behind her new initiative, "We Listen, We Don’t Judge," a parent support group focused on giving families a space to process intrusive thoughts, break isolation, and build community through shared experiences. The two also reflect on parenting victories, emotional challenges, and why collective action is crucial for supporting families raising children on the spectrum.

You'll hear firsthand about the emotions that often go unspoken, the power of community events like the Autism Awareness Month gathering at Sherman Phoenix, and the importance of self-advocacy and resource-sharing.

Stay tuned for:

✅ The Autism Adjectives Reflection

✅ The importance of acknowledging intrusive thoughts

✅ Real talk on emotional resilience and mental health for special needs families

✅ How one small support group can spark big change

✅ Ways you can help build an even bigger autism community movement!

Like, share, and subscribe to help strengthen the JCrew community!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this heartfelt episode of What's New on JCrew, host Branden Joseph welcomes Lavenia Chappelle, a dedicated mother, educator, and entrepreneur, to share her inspiring journey of raising her young son, Laron (LJ), who is on the autism spectrum.

Together, they dive into the emotional and transformative experience of navigating motherhood, career, and advocacy, while building a loving and intentional home environment. Laia shares personal lessons learned about resilience, faith, and patience, and offers advice for parents newly adjusting to their child's diagnosis.

Listeners will also hear about the special sibling bond between LJ and his little sister, the power of spiritual grounding, and why self-care and community support are vital for families raising children with developmental disabilities.

Stay tuned for:

✅ The Autism Adjectives Reflection

✅ Tips for balancing professional life and special needs parenting

✅ Self-care practices for staying grounded

✅ Real advice for parents receiving a new diagnosis

✅ A reminder that you are never alone in this journey

Like, share, and subscribe to continue building our JCrew community!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special Autism Awareness Month episode of What's New on JCrew, host Branden Joseph sits down with guest Dante Doherty for a powerful conversation about fatherhood, advocacy, and resilience. Both fathers to incredible children on the autism spectrum, Branden and Dante reflect on the everyday triumphs, challenges, and lessons that come with parenting while navigating developmental disabilities.

Dante shares heartfelt stories about his daughter Nova’s journey, emphasizing the strength found in routine, patience, and unconditional love. The two fathers also discuss the importance of staying emotionally balanced, letting go of guilt, and empowering their children to live full, joyful lives.

This episode is a reminder that families facing these journeys are not alone — and that with community, vulnerability, and support, we can all grow stronger together.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this powerful episode of What's New with JCrew, host Branden Joseph welcomes special guest Ms. Danielle Harris, Senior Director of People Services at Dr. Howard Fuller Collegiate Academy. Together, they dive deep into the realities of parenting, educating, and advocating for children with autism and developmental disabilities.

From sharing their "Autism Adjectives" — words that reflect their current journey — to vital advice on post-secondary transitions, Danielle offers rich insights and resources for families navigating life after high school.

Plus, stick around for our Resource Hub, featuring real-world tools for planning college or independent living, and the heartwarming JCrew Salute highlighting an inspiring autism family.

Please like, share, and subscribe to continue building a community of support!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the inaugural episode of What's New on JCrew, host Branden Joseph sets the tone for an empowering and uplifting journey. This podcast is a space dedicated to families, advocates, and individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and developmental disabilities.

Branden shares personal reflections on his family’s journey, his son BJ's milestones, and introduces key features of the show — including the Resource Time segment and the JCrew Saluter, where outstanding families and caregivers will be recognized.

Learn how to get involved, nominate someone special, and become part of the JCrew community focused on awareness, acceptance, and support.

Subscribe, like, and share — and remember: you're not alone. Together, we build the village.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.