THE SJ CHILDS SHOW

Imagine discovering a new facet of yourself in your 30s. That’s precisely what happened to Danielle Sullivan, an autistic adult who was diagnosed later in life. Having founded neurodiverging.com, she now extends her insights and experiences to help late-identified autistic and ADHD adults and their families navigate their unique journeys.

Danielle's candid recounting of her personal experience with autism and ADHD offers its own unique perspective. With her, we journey through her struggles, exploring the various nuances of neurodivergence and the profound impact it can have on familial relationships. Listen in as she details the liberation of her diagnosis, the challenges of fitting in with societal norms, and her efforts to create a personal space that caters to her and her family's unique needs.

Finally, we dive into Danielle's mission to advocate for neurodivergent individuals. Listen to how she took her personal journey of self-discovery and used it to fuel the creation of her online coaching practice.  Join us on this journey of embracing neurodivergence and creating supportive spaces for growth.

What happens when you decide to take a leap of faith into entrepreneurship, despite the odds stacked against you? Adrian, a full-time writer and the founder of Powerpitch Company, shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, transformation, and success. From rebellious high school days in Austin, Texas, Adrienne opens up about his personal struggles, including coping with heartbreak and weight gain, and how these experiences have shaped him into the person he is today.

Adrian's entrepreneurial journey is nothing short of inspiring. With just $2,000 and a dream, he took a risk and turned his personal training venture into a thriving online business. Despite some initial failures and the harsh reality of unanswered sales calls, Adrian's persistence led to an astonishing first-year revenue of half a million dollars. However, success wasn't straightforward. Adrian's candid discussion about the importance of managing money and customer deliverables paints an authentic picture of entrepreneurship's many facets.

The episode concludes with his game changing realization about the power of strategic marketing and partnerships. Sharing the experience of securing two high-paying clients in a day, Adrian underscores the importance of understanding your customer and delivering value. We discusses how the right positioning and endorsement can open doors for unprecedented success. So, if you're an aspiring entrepreneur or anyone who values resilience and strategic marketing, Adrian's incredible story is guaranteed to inspire and inform you.

Riding the wave of adversity can lead to incredible strength and resilience, as proven by our guest, boxing champion Cam F Awesome. Striving to overcome personal insecurities, Cam used boxing as a tool to redefine his self-perception, reaching the pinnacle of his sport to become a frontrunner in the 2008 Olympic Trials. However, his journey was not without obstacles and it is through his trials and tribulations that he learned the essence of perseverance and the valuable lessons embedded in failure.

In an age where digital life is almost synonymous with real life, we delve into its implications on mental health. We discuss how the constant engagement with our phones and social media can cultivate negative thought patterns, and how these can be disrupted by mindful activities such as reading and positive self-affirmations. Always, the power of positivity, self-belief and humility underscore our conversation.

Lastly, we traverse the landscape of parenting and personal growth, with a focus on the role of technology. We discuss the importance of setting family rules and the value of repetition in creating wise and resilient children. We also consider how to harness technology in a positive way, including a discussion of the 'puppy reset' concept for resetting your social media algorithm to positive content. Join us for a candid, enlightening and empowering conversation with Cam, a champion in and out of the ring.

What if the key to your child's cognitive development lay not in textbooks or digital screens, but in understanding the way their brains respond to movement? As parents, we often overlook the importance of physical movement in shaping our children's cognitive abilities. In a fascinating discussion with Lisa, a learning specialist turned functional health coach, we dig deep into the heart of the matter. Having an adult son with autism and younger sons with developmental delays, Lisa's personal journey has shaped her professional expertise in brain development and interventions. She sheds light on her unique methods and programs that have proven beneficial for many.

As we navigate our conversation, we delve into the complex world of reflexes and their critical role in supporting children's development. Lisa shares her experience of managing her son's transition from school to home life, and how she is discerning what's best for him. We learn about the impact of unintegrated reflexes on a child's ability to concentrate in school and the harmful effects of environmental toxins on neuroinflammation and cognitive abilities. 

Moreover, we explore the vital correlation between nutrition, environment, and the development of primitive reflexes in a child's health. Lisa presents a five-step approach for families to revamp their eating habits and switch to an anti-inflammatory lifestyle. We scrutinize the effects of diet and environmental factors on brainstem development and how it can lead to consequential issues such as autoimmune diseases and opiate effects. As we wrap up our enlightening discussion, Lisa introduces her 30-day jumpstart program and the Bloomberg Rhythmic Movement Training course. She also offers invaluable advice for parents regarding detoxification. Join us in this insightful conversation with Lisa, and empower yourself with a wealth of knowledge on functional health and brain development.

Picture this: Your child just received a diagnosis of ADHD or autism, and you're feeling overwhelmed. Where do you turn? Who can you trust to guide you through the maze of information and decisions that suddenly loom ahead? This week's episode features an enlightening conversation with Genie Love, a seasoned coach who helps adults manage their diagnoses of ADHD, autism, anxiety and dyslexia. Genie’s personal journey—from navigating her daughter’s ADHD diagnosis to working with diverse student populations in public schools and South America—provides her with a unique and invaluable perspective on these issues.

We engage in a candid discussion about the parenting challenges that come with raising neurodiverse children, exploring the delicate balance between guiding them and allowing them to carve their own paths. In our chat, Genie also reveals her evidence-based program that empowers individuals to manage their time, emotions, and behaviors effectively. From mindfulness techniques to advocating for workplace accommodations, Genie’s insights are as practical as they are profound. We also delve into triggers for sensory regulation, and how to manage them effectively. So tune in and take away some wisdom from someone who has lived the journey.

What if you could turn a painful personal experience into a transformative platform? That's exactly what our guest, Devin Moore, founder of the Race to Speak Up Anti-Bullying Organization, did. Through his own painful experiences with bullying, he found a powerful purpose: to empower students to stand against bullying and promote inclusivity. His brainchild, Race to Speak Up, is a beacon of hope, educating not just students but also schools and libraries about the importance of treating each other with understanding and respect. Plus, his children's anti-bullying book, Devin Speaks Up, is sparking important conversations at an age where it can make a lasting impact.

In our chat with Devin, we also took a deep dive into what a safe and nurturing workplace looks like. A place where each one of us can take a stand against bullying, by embracing the simple yet impactful steps of active listening and positive affirmations. But it doesn't stop there. Devin also walks us through his self-care regime - the importance of self-dates and reconnecting with oneself. He shares his journey of juggling between personal growth and fostering a college organization focused on Black student involvement. Remember, it's not just about how we remember others, but also about how we remember ourselves. Tune in and get inspired by Devin's journey, because it's a testament to the fact that adversity can be turned into a beacon of hope and inclusivity.

Prepare to be inspired as we welcome back the multi-talented Ron Sandison. Known for his work as a mental health professional, a part-time professor, an autism speaker, and an author, Ron’s journey with autism is nothing short of remarkable. This episode takes you on a fascinating exploration of his unique abilities and his latest passion projects. We unveil the inspiring story of his daughter's artistic journey as she recovers from a broken elbow and discuss the incredible work he does with children on the autism spectrum. 

Ron has a remarkable ability to memorize over 15,000 Bible verses, a skill he employs in his insightful presentations on autism. We discuss his bestselling books and the insights they provide, including 'Parents Guide to Autism Practical Advice, Biblical Wisdom', a top-selling Christian parenting book. Looking ahead, Ron shares his ambitious plans to become ordained in the Assemblies of God and his inspiring mantra, "Any fool can see an apple on a tree, but it takes vision and dedication to see that orchard and that apple seed". Ron's dedication to supporting and advocating for those on the autism spectrum shines throughout our enlightening conversation. Tune in for this unforgettable episode.

Ever feel like you've been wearing a mask your entire life? As an autism advocate, blogger, and public speaker, Devin Morrissey knows that feeling all too well. Diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Devin spent his childhood feeling different, misunderstood, and perpetually out of sync with the world around him. Join us on a captivating journey as Devin shares his raw and emotional experience of struggling with his identity and the moment he came to terms with the fact that he may never fit into society's definition of 'perfect'.

The turning point for Devin? Embracing his autism and learning to love himself, flaws and all. He shares how making mistakes and stumbling along the way played a pivotal role in his journey to self-acceptance. But he didn't do it alone. With the support of his parents and the ADA, Devin turned his struggles into strengths, becoming a powerful voice in the autism community. He even launched his own podcast, Autisticly Unapologetic, creating a platform for real, meaningful conversations about life on the spectrum.

But the story doesn't end there. Tune in to hear about Devin's unexpected journey to love, navigating the complexities of a relationship with a non-autistic partner, and his heartwarming experience on the Love on the Spect show. Devin shares his hopes for the future of the autism community at large. From accepting his autism to finding love, Devin's journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging us all to celebrate our uniqueness and never stop pursuing our dreams.

Imagine stepping into the life of a social media influencer and content creator who is not only navigating her own journey with autism but also advocating for autism acceptance. That's exactly what we do in this episode with our special guest, Britini D'Angelo. Diagnosed with autism at the tender age of 22 months, Britini's life has been a testament to resilience, the power of a strong support system, and the determination to effect positive change in the world.

Together, we traverse her life's path, revealing the crucial importance of understanding, patience, and forming positive relationships around a child with autism. We explore the challenges she faced in transitioning from school to the workplace, and how she dared to defy the pitfalls of comparison. Britini's story is an illuminating beacon of hope, inspiring us to push boundaries and break stigmas associated with autism.

But our journey doesn't end there, Britini also unveils her experiences with food allergies and ADHD, offering valuable insights on how to navigate these additional hurdles. Amidst these candid conversations, we find moments of celebration - Britini's upcoming birthday, her sister's law school graduation, and thrilling trips that lie ahead. So, tune in, revel in the joyous power of the autism community, and be a part of this inspiring conversation filled with learning, insights, and celebration.

Are you ready to challenge traditional views on neurodiversity? This episode with Dr. Nicole Tetreault, a dynamic neuroscientist, will reshape your perspective. A personal revelation, sparked by her mother's Parkinson's diagnosis, led Nicole to pivot from a conventional career to a mission in neuroscience communication. She walks us through her fascinating journey, unveiling the power of focusing on strengths over deficits in the neurodiverse community and how she is using this paradigm-shifting approach to write her book on neurodiversity.

Nicole doesn't stop at just reshaping perceptions. She's on a mission to transform how we design our societies, workplaces, and especially our education systems to better cater to neurodiverse thinkers. Imagine classrooms designed to foster emotional connection and safety, where students have various modes of communication, production, and access to information. Nicole argues for a radical shift from rote memorization to intellectual, creative, emotional, physical, and sensorial pursuits. She reveals how this can revolutionize learning for neurodiverse individuals.

But Nicole's vision doesn't stop with neuroscience and education. She is also passionate about providing free resources to the public and designing meditation programs for natural nervous system regulation. She talks about her exciting upcoming projects — an executive functioning summit, a meditation course, and a retreat. Plus, we get a sneak peek into her forthcoming Bright Mind Study Guide. All of this is part of her mission to reassure people that they are okay just as they are. So, join us as we explore Nicole's inspiring work and find out how you can support her initiatives at Awesome Neuro. This episode promises to be a beacon of hope, encouragement, and transformation.

Ever catch yourself in the heat of an argument with your child, only to realize you've slipped into an undesirable 'anger game'? Our guest, mental health coach and emotional fitness trainer Benji Sharer, knows this dance all too well and he's here to help us change the music. Join our enlightening conversation where we explore how to ensure our children feel safe, understood, and that their emotional needs are met.

Parenting isn't a one-size-fits-all venture - and neither is emotional fitness. Unpack the influence your own upbringing can have on your parenting style and how to approach challenging scenarios with emotions other than anger or fear. We'll learn from Benji’s personal journey of mastering his triggers and how you can apply his practical advice to avoid falling into the age-old 'anger game' with your little ones. 

Lastly, we'll journey into the realm of self-love and the role it plays in establishing trust and safety in the parent-child relationship. Our conditioning can sometimes lead us to suppress our emotions, but we'll discover how this can harm our relationships with our children. I'll be sharing handy tips to help you navigate unresolved trauma, and how to foster a bond with your child that is built on mutual trust and understanding. Remember, emotional fitness is not just about managing our triggers, but also about nurturing our emotional state with self-love and self-care. Tune in and let's redefine what it means to be an emotionally fit parent!

Having a child with special needs is a unique journey, filled with triumphs and trials that are as challenging as they are rewarding. Join us this week as we chat with a guest who has walked this path and has dedicated his life to supporting other families on the same journey. Armed with personal experience and a wealth of knowledge, our guest enlightens us about his life as a father of a child with Aspergers, his struggles with the education system, and the crucial role of a strong support system for parents.

Ever heard of twice-exceptional children? These are gifted kids who also face learning or behavioral challenges, and their needs often fall through the cracks of conventional education systems. Our guest boldly addresses this overlooked issue, spotlighting the disparities in our education system. We delve into the implications of failing to meet their needs, and the need for foundational training for educators to better support these exceptional kids.

In this episode, we also touch on the subject of gifted children. Finding the right environment for children who learn at a pace faster than their peers can be a daunting task for parents. We delve into how to identify if your child is gifted and the resources available to help. Additionally, we unveil a free parent guide and give you a sneak peek into our guest's upcoming monthly membership club. This episode is an eye-opener, a must-listen for anyone involved in the education and nurturing of children with special needs and gifts.

Ever felt like you're wearing a mask, trying to fit in a world that doesn’t quite understand you? Imagine having to navigate this feeling while managing an autism diagnosis. Meet Larissa Russell, a woman on the spectrum sharing her intimate journey of self-discovery and how she leverages healing creativity to manage her condition. Her story is unique, her struggles real, but her resilience is inspiring. Tune in as we dive into Larissa’s experiences and how she now passionately empowers others to explore their self-identity through her work at Creative View.

Are you aware of the healing power of journaling or the impact of being kind to yourself? Larissa will guide us through these aspects, shedding light on the importance of tuning into our needs. She's not only a beacon of wisdom but also a successful entrepreneur. Larissa has built Creative You, a business dedicated to helping women align their online businesses with their ethics, values, and life goals. We also touch on the silver lining of these uncertain times: global connections and collaborations. Particularly for autistic women, these relationships are priceless. So let's listen, learn, and connect, to help shape a better world for future generations. This is a journey of exploration and transformation, and Larissa invites you to join her.

Do you ever find yourself struggling with job interviews, time management, or self-advocacy in the workplace? Well, you’re not alone. We’ve invited a specialist, Jessica Jarmo, a Dyslexic and ADHD Career Coach, to enlighten us about these challenges and more. Jessica’s personal experiences with ADHD and her professional expertise in recruitment make her an invaluable resource for individuals in similar situations. She’s got some incredible insights into what hiring managers look for and how to navigate the job hunting process.

Our conversation also shed light on the significance of transferable skills, coachability, and empathy when preparing for job interviews. Jessica emphasized on the value of diversity, inclusion, and bilingualism in the workplace. But her passion doesn't stop there. She's been giving back to the community through a robotics initiative she started, a testament to her belief in the importance of STEM programs. Also, she extended a scholarship to a high school student in Massachusetts, sparking a conversation about mentoring and its impact on younger students. So come along, let’s hear Jessica’s inspiring journey and learn ways to transform our own career paths.

Have you ever had a moment that made you stop in your tracks and reassess everything? That's what happened to our guest, Ryann Watkin, six months postpartum with a sudden panic attack. This raw and enlightening episode explores Ryann's journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. She offers a candid glimpse into her struggles with addiction, coping mechanisms, and the importance of journaling, verbal processing, and community in seeking out the truths that led her toward healing.

Ryann's riveting story continues as she shares how her passion for education influenced her approach to parenting. Shifting from an authoritarian stance, she embraced conscious discipline, gentle parenting, and the choice method. Her reflections emphasize the beauty of diversity and the importance of recognizing and celebrating our unique attributes. Be ready to reevaluate as Ryann's insights might just spark your own self-reflection about your life and the way you parent.

Finally, we delve into a shared experience of finding joy in unexpected moments and the power of healing in aligning different aspects of our lives. There's something undeniably magnetic about Ryann's journey and her passion for talking about healing that leaves you inspired and yearning for more. We wrap up by connecting with Ryann's vibrant online community on Instagram, which is one space you should consider being a part of. This conversation is a heart-touching, thought-provoking, and deeply moving exploration of parenting, diversity, healing, and finding joy in the unexpected. Tune in and prepare to be inspired!

Ever wished you could empower children with differences and disabilities to thrive? Our guest today, Meg Zucker, author of Born Extraordinary: Empowering Children with Differences & Disabilities, will share with us her inspiring journey and how, through her experiences, she has become an advocate for children with visible and invisible differences.

Join our enlightening discussion as we challenge the common missteps of fear-based parenting and explore the value of mental strength, confidence, and a new era of parenting. Together, we'll unravel the chapters of Meg's empowering book, such as Embracing the New Normal and Take the Bully by the Horns, where she emphasizes the importance of self-reflection for parents and the power of instilling empathy and kindness in our children.

This conversation is an eye-opener to celebrating diversity and learning from parenting mistakes. Listen as we share personal experiences and insights on the strength found within the disability community and the importance of resilience. Learn more about Meg's book, Born Extraordinary: Empowering Children with Differences & Disabilities, and the potential it holds to create a world of understanding, acceptance, and empowerment. Join us and together let's redefine the norm.

Imagine the raw energy and elegance of a dancer, the visual storytelling of a film-maker, and the advocacy spirit of an activist all encapsulated in one person. Meet Roxanna Lewis, a versatile artist whose journey has taken her from the dance floor to the director's chair, breaking societal norms and shedding light on autism along the way. Her work with the Infinity Dance Theater, an inclusive company that embraces dancers with and without disabilities, has infused her projects with an emotional depth that transcends the conventional norms of artistry.

This episode takes a turn into a deeply personal realm as Roxanna shares her father's battle with addiction and his recent autism diagnosis. This revelation works as a catalyst, leading to a powerful discussion about her own husband's journey with autism. As we navigate these intimate narratives, we glimpse the profound bond that has evolved between Roxanna and her husband, further strengthening their relationship and reshaping her perceptions. 

We unravel the creation of Roxanna's new film, "Mandy's Voice," exploring the challenges of authentic casting, the communal effort it took to bring it to life in a pandemic-riddled world, and the on-set medical emergencies they had to tackle. This film, a testament to her dedication and passion, serves as an expressive conduit between a mother and a daughter, echoing the importance of communication. As we conclude, we delve into Roxanna's anticipation for her upcoming online autism summit and her desire to connect with a global audience, further emphasizing her advocacy for autism. 

So, join us on this profound journey that weaves dance, film, and advocacy into a poignant narrative, spotlighting the extraordinary Roxanna Lewis.

What happens when a family journey interweaves with the discovery of autism in their child? As the host, I had the privilege to invite Fiona from Australia, a strong and inspiring mother who shares her personal traversal through the maze of autism. Her tale is not just about recognising the signs in her younger daughter but also about how narratives from other women on the spectrum transformed their fear into a profound understanding of autism and altered their family's dynamic. 

Has your child been diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition and you find yourself asking 'what’s next'? Fiona's story could be your guide. She not only delves into her daughter's autism but also expounds on the value of knowledge, the power of open diagnosis disclosure, and its impact on peers. Fiona's story doesn't end there. As we continue, she goes on to discuss her other daughter's ADHD and potential autism diagnosis, emphasizing how understanding each other's unique neurology can lead to genuine acceptance and support.

To wrap it up, Fiona's inspiration to write a book titled 'Tiny Wings' amplifies her mission to spread awareness about autism. She articulates how the Covid-19 pandemic influenced her family and their journey of acceptance, with her daughter transitioning from a library volunteer to an employee. As we conclude, Fiona extends her gratitude and hopes for future collaborations. Join us and don't miss this inspiring and enlightening episode; it might just provide the perspective you've been searching for.

https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Wings-Our-Journey-Autism/dp/0645794406

https://www.fionavalentine.com/tinywings.html


https://hopin.com/events/1-in-36-mix-virtual-autism-summit/registration

Ever wondered how music can transform the lives of special needs students? Tune in to this soul-stirring conversation with Stephen, an exceptional professional musician and a seasoned teacher, who unfolds the untold stories of his journey working with special needs kids. From teaching at California's largest special needs high school to mastering online teaching in New York, Stephen's commitment and passion for teaching are truly awe-inspiring. He shares insightful experiences and emphasizes the potential of these students to become significant contributors in our inclusive society. 

Not your regular music lesson, Stephen reveals his unique phonics system for teaching drums, harmoniously blending active listening, rapport building and thought-provoking challenges. He underlines the power of multi-sensory activities, cleverly using rhythms, colour-coding, and even West African rhythms to facilitate learning. His flexible approach to teaching and the ability to adapt to individual student's needs makes a world of difference in their learning journey. Stephen's extraordinary perspective on the beautiful intersection of music and special education makes this episode an educational yet heart-warming treat. So, are you ready to explore the rhythm of learning?

https://hopin.com/events/1-in-36-mix-virtual-autism-summit/registration

Want a ticket to the 1 in 36 Mix for FREE? Reach out to my by email sjchildsshow@gmail.com and I'll get you a special link!

Imagine a world where difference is not only accepted, but celebrated. Today, I had the opportunity to sit down with Rachel Barcellona, an incredible woman who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. We explored the unique challenges and triumphs of her journey, from a non-speaking child to a student at Juilliard, discussing how early detection and understanding can change lives.

In our conversation, we delve into the realm of rebellion in children with autism, viewing it not as a sign of disobedience but as a cry for understanding. I shared my personal experiences of self-discovery, including the liberation of being authentically myself and the lessons I’m teaching my daughter about growing older. As we navigate the complex intersections of identity and society, we stress the importance of empathy, acceptance, and realizing that the autism spectrum is not limited by gender or sexuality.

And if you thought pageantry was all about glitz and glam, Rachel gives us a glimpse into how it's much more than that. She started at five, and since then, it has served as a platform for her to advocate for change. Not only that, but she has also collaborated on a clothing line, penned an upcoming book, and been part of some exciting projects, all of which serve as an inspiration for many. We end on a positive note, highlighting how social media and technology have been instrumental in her journey, enabling her to connect with people around the globe and amplify her message. For a heartwarming tale of strength, perseverance, and individuality, this is one conversation you wouldn't want to miss.