Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

Preparing for college is about much more than academics. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Tara Williams, professor and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, to talk about what neurodivergent students—and their families—can do to prepare for the transition from high school to college. From executive functioning, time management and accommodations to independent living, social connection and self-advocacy, Dr. Williams shares practical ways families can begin building these skills long before move-in day. She also discusses the importance of connecting with campus accessibility services, considering community college and bridge programs, and looking beyond academics when deciding whether a college environment is the right fit. One of the biggest takeaways? Independence doesn't happen overnight. Giving students opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, ask for help and even experience small failures can help them develop skills they'll need in college, the workplace and beyond. Whether college is right around the corner or still years away, this conversation offers plenty to think about when preparing neurodivergent young people for greater independence. Tune in for a conversation about preparing not just for college—but for what comes next. Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Instagram

Special Olympics is about so much more than sports—it's about belonging, friendship, confidence, leadership, and having the opportunity to shine. In this special two-part episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Jerome Davis, Head of Delegation for Special Olympics at Lone Star College, to talk about the growth of the program across the college system, the power of Unified Sports, and his unforgettable experience coaching Team Texas basketball to gold at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Then, Jennifer welcomes Special Olympics golfer Peyton Mattingly and his dad and caddy, Chad Mattingly. Peyton shares his love of golf, competing for Team Texas at the USA Games, finishing fourth, the friendships he's made along the way, and his goal of making it to the podium in 2030. Chad also reflects on Peyton's journey—from an early autism diagnosis and predictions about what he might not be able to do, to college, competitive golf, and a future filled with possibilities.  Through both conversations, one message comes through loud and clear: inclusion isn't simply being invited—it's being given the opportunity to participate, contribute, compete, build friendships, and be part of the team.

When a vulnerable loved one goes missing, every second matters. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler talks with Angelina Farris, Founder and Executive Director of Blue SAR, a nonprofit dedicated to the search, recovery, and rescue of missing persons, with a special focus on vulnerable individuals. Angelina introduces listeners to Skye, Blue SAR's black-and-tan bloodhound trained specifically in scent-discriminating trailing. Unlike a tracking dog following impressions on the ground, Skye is trained to follow the scent of one specific person—providing search teams with another resource that may help narrow a search more quickly. Skye is also trained to give a quiet sit alert when she finds someone, an intentional choice when searching for individuals who may be autistic, have dementia, or otherwise become overwhelmed or frightened. Jennifer and Angelina also discuss something families may never have considered: preparing a scent kit before an emergency occurs. Angelina explains how an uncontaminated scent can help Skye begin a search and why families traveling with a vulnerable loved one may want to bring their prepared scent kit with them. The conversation is filled with practical steps families and caregivers can take now—from keeping current photos and medication information readily available to checking home-camera placement and recording settings. Angelina also addresses an important misconception: families do not have to wait 24 hours to report someone missing. It's an important conversation about prevention, preparation, and having additional resources in place before they're ever needed. Because in a search for a missing loved one, saving time can make all the difference. Email: [email protected] Phone: 713.256.2445 call or text Scent Kits Facebook Messenger

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for autistic individuals—but there are practical steps families can take to reduce the risk. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Cindy Freedman OT, co-founder of Swim Angelfish, occupational therapist, and recreational therapist, to discuss adaptive swim instruction, water safety, and the free resources available to help families, caregivers, educators, and aquatic professionals. You'll learn: The difference between water safety and swim lessons Simple strategies families can begin using today How adaptive swim instruction can help children of all abilities Free downloadable resources available through Swim Angelfish website Whether your child loves the water or avoids it, this episode is packed with practical information that could make a life-saving difference. Show Notes: Adaptive Resources Mini-Course Adaptive Water Safety Tool Kit Inclusive Water Safety Activity Book Waterproof Visual Schedule  YouTube: https://youtu.be/2GADgf6egcY

In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Dorothea Lerman, Professor of Behavior Analysis at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and Director of the UHCL Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, to explore the skills that truly lead to workplace success. While many vocational programs focus on teaching job-specific tasks, Dr. Lerman explains why social communication, problem-solving, accepting feedback, self-advocacy, and understanding the "hidden curriculum" of the workplace are often the keys to obtaining and maintaining employment. Jennifer and Dr. Lerman also discuss: Why employment preparation should begin years before a first job The importance of realistic career expectations and early work experiences How parents can build workplace readiness at home Common barriers autistic individuals face in employment Practical ways employers can create more inclusive workplaces The role of mentors, accommodations, and clear communication in supporting neurodiverse employees Dr. Lerman also shares insights from her new book, Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Helping Learners Prepare for Social Demands in the Workplace, a practical resource designed to help professionals teach the social and communication skills that support long-term workplace success. Learn more or purchase Dr. Lerman's book here: https://a.co/d/0i4CIt9U Contact Dr. Lerman: [email protected] or [email protected]  Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, behavior analyst, or self-advocate, this conversation offers practical strategies and valuable insights to help autistic individuals build confidence, develop meaningful employment skills, and thrive in the workplace. Because preparing for employment isn't just about finding a job—it's about creating opportunities for lifelong success.