Moms Talk Autism Podcast

Today Emily Zavala returns to share her journey of navigating autism care for her son, Justin. From the struggle of finding the right group home, to the heartbreak of rejection, to the relief of finally discovering Hope House—Emily opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of advocacy and caregiving. She reflects on the resilience it takes, the community that makes it possible, and the positive changes Justin has experienced since his move. This is a story of hope, connection, and the power of not giving up. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re talking about the “Autism Tax”—not a bill from the IRS, but the hidden costs families like ours face every day. From therapies and medical expenses to careers put on hold and time stretched thin, this invisible weight is heavy. In this episode, we share our own stories and shine a light on the resilience it takes to carry it all. Because while the “tax” is real, so is the strength of our community. Want to share your Autism or Disability Tax story? Email us at hello@momstalkautism.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, Shannon and Jean sit down with Dr. David Amaral and Carolyn Komich from Autism BrainNet to talk about a topic that’s not always easy, but so important—brain donation for autism research. Dr. Amaral shares the emotional side of this conversation, why understanding autism at a deeper level matters, and how families can play a role in shaping the future of research. Carolyn walks us through what Autism BrainNet is doing to increase awareness and support families who want to learn more. It’s a tender but powerful conversation that shines a light on the importance of research and the people behind it. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explicit Episode Alert Fellow caregiver and mom, Inga Krevatas, shares the story of her twin girls’ diagnoses, over twenty years ago. Since then, Inga has built a community around her and her family and is now able to use her experiences to work with and advocate for others in her community. Look around, do the research, use what’s available right now. If that doesn’t fit or you outgrow the services offered, it’s time to start building! You want a well-rounded life for you and your children? Go get it!   Contact Inga- inga@osaspecialneedsconsulting.com Contact Moms Talk Autism- hello@momstalkautism.com   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hey friend… let’s be real for a sec. When someone asks, “How are you?” as a special needs parent or caregiver… do you ever just freeze? It’s not that we don’t know how we feel—it’s that the answer is complicated. Some days it’s pride and joy, other days it’s exhaustion and overwhelm. And layered in there is the constant tug-of-war: do I open up and be honest, or keep it short to protect my family (and maybe myself)? Do I share because I need support, or hold back because I don’t want pity? In this episode, we unpack that tricky little question and all the emotions behind it. And we want to hear from YOU. How do you navigate those moments? Send us your stories at hello@momstalkautism.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we sit down with Lia McCabe, host of the Embracing Autism Podcast. Lia shares her personal journey as an autistic parent raising neurodivergent children, her advocacy work through Autism Wish, and the importance of education and empathy in understanding autism. Lia McCabe: Host of the Embracing Autism Podcast and founder of Autism Wish. Website: www.AutismWish.org Patreon: patreon.com/AutismWish Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today Brit, Shannon and Tash discuss ending the chase for "normal" and share pivotal moments that shaped their understanding of their children's needs. We revisit grief and acceptance, as well as the emotional complexities of parenting in a diverse family dynamic.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today Jean and Tash welcome Nicole Studt, a fellow autism mom, who shares her unique journey of parenting a neurodivergent child. Nicole discusses the challenges and triumphs she faced from diagnosis to advocacy, emphasizing the importance of community and support. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Shannon and Tash sit down with the incredible Allison Bolson—a mom of four (yes, four!) neurodiverse boys. Allison shares what it’s been like raising her crew in Australia, from the ups and downs of getting diagnoses to figuring out education plans that actually work for her kids. They dive into the messy, beautiful reality of IEPs, how hard it can be to find the right support, and why open conversations about neurodiversity at home matter so much. Allison’s honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom will leave you feeling seen, supported, and maybe even a little less alone in your own parenting journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have been walking this path for a while, this is one of those episodes that reminds you—we’re all in this together. You can find Allison here: www.instagram.com/theincrementalshift  www.theincrementalshift.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Tash, Shannon, and Brittney are diving into life with almost-teens—because puberty waits for no one. From navigating school systems and prepping for big educational changes, to decoding the daily dose of sass and side-eye, we're covering it all. Let’s be real: parenting at this stage feels like trying to translate a foreign language… while blindfolded… on a rollercoaster. We don’t always get it right (understatement of the year), but we’re learning to give ourselves—and our kids—plenty of grace. Tune in as we laugh, vent, and figure it out together. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this heartful and honest conversation, Tiffany Feingold opens up about her journey as a mother of a neurodivergent child—and the power of finding your voice through advocacy. From the grief that often shadows a diagnosis to the empowerment that comes from building community, Tiffany walks us through the real, raw, and inspiring moments that have shaped her mission to support families just like hers. This episode dives into the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in schools and workplaces, the importance of empathy and understanding in parenting, and how parents can collaborate with professionals to create a more inclusive world. If you're parenting on the path of neurodiversity, you are not alone—and this episode is for you. 💛 More about how to find Tiffany Website: https://guidingbrightminds.com  Instagram: @Guidingbrightmind  Facebook & Linkedin: @Guidingbrightminds https://drive.google.com/open?id=1rmT2Nyzpgc3IudjWlO2cLskAnRGg9EKW https://drive.google.com/open?id=1mzZD8sfDH-gmjcn-RWvQEvN98a9zfJCU Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we chat with Jennifer and Nicole, the founders of SocialWise VR, a virtual application designed to teach social skills to neurodivergent youth. We discuss the immersive experience it offers to help young adults navigate social situations! You can find them here: https://www.socialwisevr.com https://www.instagram.com/socialwisevr Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This one is a little unhinged, mostly in a good way. We needed to break up the heavy and hard with a silly episode where we talk about anything and everything that is NOT autism. Buckle up and enjoy or skip this one if you’re not in the same space. Either way, thanks for being here. Discussion Questions: What movie star would portray you in the MTA Movie? If you had another podcast, what would the subject and title be? We are on a deserted island, who has what job and how do we survive? If you went back to school, what would you want to study? Best wedding you’ve been to or been a part of, planned, etc? Would you redo your wedding? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

They’re back to chat and with a new book! Dr Yael Rothman and Dr. Katia Fredrikson are once again here with us to discuss our neurodivergent kids, finding the appropriate therapies and care for them, and how to talk to our kids about autism. What is autism? How do I explain such complex concepts to my child? Where do I even start? Ultimately, we want to think long-term for our kids' overall success, give them the tools to understand the world around them, and, most importantly, empower themselves.  Instagram- @neuropsychmoms Different Thinkers: Autism- our favorite book to talk to your kids about autism Different Thinkers: ADHD Contact us at hello@momstalkautism.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Moms Talk Autism, Jean and Shannon chat with communication and processing specialist & parent coach, Eloise Zareian, about what it takes to support kids with special needs, especially around communication and caregiver burnout. Eloise shares how her journey led to founding Livewyre Learning and why helping parents is just as important as helping kids. They dig into language development, the difference between receptive and expressive language, and how to meet autistic kids where they’re at. Whether you’re deep in IEPs or just trying to survive the day, this episode offers real talk, support, and a few lightbulb moments. You can find Eloise here: www.livewyrelearning.com https://www.instagram.com/theautismcommunicationcoach/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/eloise-zareian-520ab783/ https://www.facebook.com/livewyrelearning Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome back with the moms! Today, we sit down and chat about ALL the puberty stuff currently happening in our homes. We are NOT experts. Trust us. We are just trying to make it through! Chat with us.. We would love to hear your puberty stories too! You can email us at hello@momstalkautism.com Don't forget to join us on Patreon! We have video and bonus episodes there! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

One of the worst pieces of news a mother can receive: your child has cancer. Our friend, Kara Ryska, knows how that feels, her family has lived and continues to live with that life changing diagnosis. We discuss the shift from one expectation for your family to a completely different frame of mind. We can change and grow and alter our perspectives AND we can thrive in our new life! Kara’s journey has shaped the work she does today: a life coach and community leader for other special needs moms. She also has an amazing podcast (we’ve been guests on there!) Go check it out and send us your feedback on how her story has touched your life. Kara’s Website Kara’s Instagram Kara’s Podcast We Are Brave Together Find us on Patreon! (The full video is here!) Contact Moms Talk Autism: hello@momstalkautism.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today, Tash and Shannon sit down with Dr. Eric Weiss—a father, a physician, and a passionate advocate for innovation in autism care. Dr. Weiss shares his deeply personal journey raising a child with autism and how it led him to shift from a career in plastic surgery to exploring emerging autism research. In this episode, we discuss the potential of stem cell therapy to address brain inflammation, success stories from his practice, and the challenges faced in gaining broader acceptance within the medical community. As a podcast rooted in lived experience and intentional advocacy, we know conversations about evolving science—especially around topics like maternal health, inflammation, and treatment—can be layered and sensitive. These themes have long histories and complex impacts within the autism community. Our goal is not to take a stance on specific approaches, but to hold space for curiosity and care. We remain grounded in the values that guide every episode: • We reject cure culture and center the well-being of both autistic individuals and their caregivers. • We believe in thoughtful inquiry—approached through a lens of inclusion, respect, and critical thought. • And above all, we honor the uniqueness of every journey. This episode may spark reflection, dialogue, or questions—and that’s something we welcome. In solidarity ❤️ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Real and honest chat about imposter syndrome in autism parenting with Shannon, Jean & Tash! Come and chat.. let us know what you think! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we sit down with Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness. Eric explains the crucial role of fitness for individuals on the autism spectrum. We talk about common fitness misconceptions why fitness should be a fundamental aspect of health and well-being for autistic individuals. IG: @TheAutismFitness Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.