Claim OwnershipAutism Changemakers Podcast
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© 2026 Autism Changemakers Podcast
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Autism Changemakers is the podcast for parents of nonspeaking autistic kids who are done feeling isolated and dismissed. Hosted by Sara Intonato—parent coach, consultant, and mom to a nonspeaking child—you’ll find real tools, real connection, and real hope. We presume competence, honor brilliance, and create a community where parents lead the quiet revolution for change.
https://www.autismchangemakers.com
15 Episodes
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If you’re raising a non-speaking autistic child and feel like you’re barely surviving, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. In this final part of our non-verbal autism help series, we talk honestly about support — why it’s so hard to ask for, why hesitation isn’t weakness, and why thriving requires...
If you’re parenting a non-speaking autistic child and feel like you have to hold everything together, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. So many parents of non-speaking kids live in a constant state of responsibility for their children — advocating, regulating, researching, managing therapi...
If you’ve been searching for non-verbal autism help or support for raising a non-speaking autistic child, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. Parenting a non-speaking autistic child can feel overwhelming in ways people don’t talk about — the constant advocacy, the comparison, the exhaustion,...
In this episode, I sit down with my friend and colleague Austin, a seasoned spelling coach and fellow parent, to crack open what it really means to live the spelling lifestyle with non-speaking children. I dive into: How Austin journeyed from traditional autism therapies to embracing spelling as a transformative, everyday practiceThe unseen (and often surprising) ways our assumptions get challenged by the amazing things non-speakers show usWhat “presuming competence” actually looks like at th...
In this episode, we step into the transformative experience of walking the Camino de Santiago—not as a romanticized pilgrimage, but as a raw journey of self-discovery, nervous system healing, and collective support. We explore: How changing your environment uncovers patterns, perspectives, and truths you can’t access when you stay put Why movement and walking in nature provide insights that sitting still cannotThe reality of burnout for caregivers, and how intentional d...
In this episode, we peel back the curtain on the hidden world of lead exposure and the far-reaching impact it can have—often where you least expect it. I explore: How my personal journey with my autistic son sparked a relentless search for answers about environmental toxins Eric Ritter’s unexpected path from drug testing kits to pioneering at-home lead detection Eye-opening truths about where lead lurks in our homes, water, and even everyday items Clear, pract...
In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of healing and transformation with Alessandra Miele—a parent, clinician, and functional medicine health coach. I explore: How Alessandra’s intuition and background in yoga guided her through her son’s recovery from autism using biomedical interventionsWhat it really looks like to navigate overwhelm, guilt, and non-linear healing as a family The essential role of emotional support, coaching, and finding your “tribe” on...
In this episode, we dive into the often-unspoken pattern of parents investing everything into their autistic non speakers—while neglecting their own needs. I explore: Why self-worth and victim mentality quietly shape how parents prioritize their child over themselvesThe hidden cost of martyrdom and chronic burnoutFresh strategies for expanding your time, energy, and resources so you AND your child can thrivePractical mindset shifts, resources, and real talk for parents ready...
In this episode, I dive deep into the realities of surviving—and actually enjoying—the holiday season as a parent of a non-speaker. I explore: Why I choose “joyful chaos” over overwhelm, and how you can create it in your own homeMy go-to strategies for sticking to protocols that support my child's well-being, especially when routines go out the windowHow daily brain games and co-regulation set us up for holiday success—and why keeping things simple matters more than everMy h...
In this episode, I share a real, behind-the-scenes look at what actually works for me in IEP meetings as both a coach and a parent to a non-speaking child. I explore: The subtle power of listening before speaking—and why it can change the dynamic of your meetingExact phrases I use to confidently advocate for my child’s needsHow “flipping the script” helps you move from feeling powerless to empowered in your school districtWays to use evidence and gentle questioning to open d...
In this episode, we dive deep into the real-life challenges and solutions around making transitions smoother for autistic children—and their families. I explore: Why “calling out the pink elephant” is essential to easing tough momentsHow to spot and balance sensory supports that can make or break a transition The impact of communication style—discover why less is often more and how small shifts can lower anxiety quickly Actionable advice for staying grounded as a p...
In this episode, we dive deep into the remarkable transformation of Haley, a mom of five (including four autistic children, three of whom are non-speaking). We explore: · Haley’s journey from extreme burnout and hopelessness to renewed energy and connection with her children · The powerful impact of adopting a “parent first” approach and why simple self-care practices changed everything · Rea...
In this roundtable episode, we gather six remarkable mothers—each raising non-speaking autistic children—to reveal the challenges, surprises, and breakthroughs on their parenting journeys. We explore: Why community and honest connection are game-changers for parents of non-speakersWhat empowered these mothers to leave behind isolation, doubt, and “expert” expectations The role that self-care, spirituality, and collective support played in their personal and family growt...
In this episode, I share the raw and revealing story of how I became the changemaker for my son Rocco—stepping beyond experts, schools, and traditional advice to transform our family’s autism journey. I dive into: The pivotal moment I was called out of fear and into action—forging my own path as a parent advocateWhy I stopped waiting for schools and therapists to “fix” things, and what happened when I dared to trust my instincts How I found (and became) the role models I wish...
In this episode, we go behind the scenes of Rocco’s transformative journey to open communication as a non-speaking teen, guided by the Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) and a parent’s unwavering commitment. I explore: --Why our path to using the letterboard was anything but straightforward --How sensory challenges, motor planning, and energy management shaped our daily practice --Ways to adapt lesson plans and keep communication fun, engaging, and stress-free --The surprising role that famil...
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