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Welcome to Episode #148 of The FASD Success Show: Discover the Impact: Transforming FASD with Peer Mentorship. This week, host Jeff Noble brings you an enlightening conversation centered on the transformative effects of connection, understanding, and peer support within the FASD community. We're excited to showcase how Adopt4Life's pioneering mentorship program is making significant strides, offering new hope, and facilitating positive change.

Join us for an engaging discussion with Nicole, one of the six project mentors (Christina, Connor, Monica, Nicole, Sabrina and Shelby) who shares her firsthand experience as an individual on the Spectrum and one of the mentors, alongside Project Co-Leads, Tracy Moisan and Catherine McIntyre from Adopt4Life. Together, we explore the critical role of peer mentorship and its profound impact on both mentors and mentees navigating the challenges of FASD.

Listeners will be inspired by stories of empowerment, personal growth, and the collaborative creation of resources that resonate with individuals with FASD. 
 
This episode is a journey through:

• Empowering Peer Connections: Discover the mentorship program's role in fostering vital relationships that inspire confidence, mutual understanding, and support among individuals with FASD.
• The Importance of Asking for Help: Hear from Nicole about the significance of seeking assistance as a step towards greater self-reliance and personal development.
• Collaboratively Creating Meaningful Resources: Learn about the process behind Adopt4Life's resource development, ensuring that every tool and initiative is reflective of the real needs and voices of the FASD community.

You will also get first hand knowledge of the second phase of the project - Until Next Time | FASD & Me: For Teens & Youth video series where each of the mentors share insight for other teens and youth with FASD on topics such as school, work, community and family.

This episode stands as a powerful showcase of how peer mentorship can serve as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of individuals with FASD and their caregivers. Nicole, Tracy, and Catherine don't just share their expertise; they share their passion, offering a narrative that highlights the importance of empathy, connection, and informed support in navigating FASD.

Show Notes:

Visit the Podcast Blog Post for links to the Adopt 4 Life ASD & Me Program and Until Now Video Series for Youth as well as Links to all the FASD Success Socials.

Get ready for an episode that will leave you inspired and hopeful! Meet Angela, a remarkable birth mom, who takes us on her life-changing journey of raising a child with FASD. 

If you've ever felt like you're running on fumes in this FASD rollercoaster, don't skip out early—we've got a game-changing update that you'll seriously kick yourself for missing. Angela and I get real about the wild ride of FASD caregiving—the meltdowns, the small victories, and the moments of utter exhaustion and isolation. Trust me, Angela's been through the wringer, and she's got wisdom to share. By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with actionable strategies to better manage day-to-day challenges, understand the impact of being a birth mom in the FASD community, and feel invigorated by Angela's testament to human strength and endurance

So, if Angela's rollercoaster feels a lot like your own, hit that subscribe button for more 'aha' moments. And hey, listen up because we've got an exciting announcement about a free workshop that might just be your FASD game-changer. Seriously, you won't want to miss this.

Show Notes:

Follow our Facebook Page for daily tips and inspiration: FASD Success

If you are a parent or caregiver and need some virtual support,  join us in our: FASD Caregiver Support Facebook Group.

Tired of feeling like you're talking to a brick wall when you're trying to get educators to understand your child's unique needs? You're not alone.

In this no-holds-barred episode of the FASD Success Show, host Jeff Noble cuts through the fluff and gets real about what it takes to build a bridge between home and school. With firsthand stories, expert insights, and actionable strategies, this is the guide you've been waiting for.

Whether you're feeling unheard or just downright frustrated, this episode is your rallying cry for change. And whatever you do, don't miss the end—we've got an exclusive offer that promises to redefine your approach to FASD and education.

Don't forget to subscribe to the FASD Success Show for more insightful episodes that will help you navigate the FASD journey with knowledge, compassion, and actionable strategies. Your subscription helps us reach more caregivers like you, spreading awareness and fostering success in the FASD community.

Show Notes:

Follow our Facebook Page for daily tips and inspiration: FASD Success

If you are a parent or caregiver and need some virtual support,  join us in our: FASD Caregiver Support Facebook Group.

In this eye-opening episode of the FASD Success Show, host Jeff Noble delves into the intricacies of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). From breaking down the official definition to tackling the stigma and misunderstandings surrounding FASD, this episode is a must-listen for caregivers and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of this complex condition. 

Jeff also shares his own experiences and insights, offering a holistic view that combines scientific facts with lived experiences. Whether you're a seasoned caregiver or new to the FASD community, this episode will equip you with the tools and knowledge to better support your loved ones and advocate for FASD awareness.

Don't forget to subscribe to the FASD Success Show for more insightful episodes that will help you navigate the FASD journey with knowledge, compassion, and actionable strategies. Your subscription helps us reach more caregivers like you, spreading awareness and fostering success in the FASD community.

Show notes

FASD Caregiver Support Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/fasdforever

FASD Definition: www.canfasd.ca 

After a hiatus, Jeff Noble returns to the FASD Success Show with a tale that's been waiting in the wings. Dive into an episode filled with unexpected twists, raw emotions, and the resilience that defines every journey. Why did Jeff step away? And what brought him back to the microphone? More importantly, there's an announcement on the horizon that promises to reshape the FASD landscape. You won't want to miss this triumphant return, where every revelation leads to a brighter path forward. Tune in, lean in, and discover what's been unfolding behind the scenes.

As we draw our journey to a close, we delve into the realm of emotional wellness and learn how to cope during challenging times. I'll share how I lean on my tribe for support and express my gratitude to those who've been there for me. So, are you ready for this emotional rollercoaster? Join me on this epic journey and let's face life's ups and downs together, turning every challenge into a success story.

Show Notes:

Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

We are back! What a whirlwind the last couple of months has been! In this return episode, I let you know where we have been, what we have been doing, and what the future of the show is, but more importantly for right now for you I am giving a mini-coaching session all about how to navigate not only this season but anytime there is a holiday or shift in routine and structure.

How are you holding up? Many of the caregivers in our Facebook Group and Coaching Course are feeling the strain. You may be burnt out but so are our kids. Even my daughter, who is neurotypical. Add in the disability, seasonal depression, or trauma (for you or your kids) and we have an assault on our nervous systems. Tune in to hear the collective wisdom from my team and the families I work with on how to navigate this season. I dig deep and share:

• questions to ask and prompts to center yourself if you are struggling
• quick suggestions to help ease transitions and changes
• a new way to respond to the negative voices when you or others think our kids are missing out

I also share how my family shifted to create new traditions that reduced anxiety and pressure on everyone in our celebrations. Some of our kids can manage the season (and that’s great), and some only require minor tweaks to traditions and routines (fantastic) … but for others, to survive this season, you really need to ask yourself some tough questions. Because can we ask our kids to extend their functioning beyond their current ability and expect traditional outcomes?  I don’t have all the answers, but I do have ideas and questions you can ask yourself to find answers that work for your family.

Oh, and about the Show and where it’s going? I will give you all the details on that, so you are going to want to tune in!

From all of us at FASD Success, whatever you are or are not celebrating during this time of year, I hope you find more good days and success. Thank you for tuning in this year and making The FASD Success Show one of the top 5% most shared globally (according to Spotify)! That is all down to you, the listener! Thank you for sharing your time with us and The Show with others!

When Michelle and her husband adopted their son, they were told he may have issues in school due to international adoption-related issues – but no one mentioned FASD. Despite hitting all his early milestones, his challenges escalated as he got older. Their life was chaotic and stressful. They tried everything and saw all the professionals. Even the Occupational Therapist, who was on track with accommodations, didn’t mention FASD. Even with a Master's in Social Work, Michelle didn’t think FASD.

Eventually, things escalated to the point where there was involvement with the juvenile justice system, placement in a therapeutic day school, and residential treatment. We talk about how that left her feeling like she failed as a mom and a professional. She shares what led her to make a significant shift that helped her son, her family, and herself, and how she has gone from not wanting to share her story for fear of judgment to advocating with various systems and even having her Congresswoman phoning her to talk about FASD!

While each journey is unique, I hope hearing others helps you not feel alone, understand that success comes in many forms, and be inspired for your future!

Show Notes:

FASD Workshop: Learn what’s working now from Jeff and other FASD parents and caregivers with 800+ years of experience. Click: Free Virtual Workshop. Once you register, you will get support, encouragement, strategies, and tips to deal with everyday challenges at home or school.

Check out our website: FASD Success

Anne and Jeff Munson are parents to four teenagers on the Spectrum. They were living in a hormone hurricane of constant dysregulation (theirs and the kids), police involvement, and challenges at school. Anne was talking back to her kids talking back to her and Jeff was trying to hold on and shore up the dam from bursting. They felt judged. They felt they were horrible parents. Their kids weren’t listening to them. The teachers didn’t understand them. After 17 years of trying everything, one of their kids told Anne they needed to go to parenting school. And they did.

In this episode, you will find out where they went, what they discovered, what changes they made, and what results they have seen in themselves and in their kids. They also talk about their proudest moment when the school went from not listening to Anne to inviting her to train their special education staff!

They still have challenges, but they are better equipped to manage them. And you can find that balance too. Check out this episode for details.

Show Notes:

FASD Workshop: Learn what’s working now from Jeff and other FASD parents and caregivers with 800+ years of experience. Click: Free Virtual Workshop. Once you register, you will get support, encouragement, strategies, and tips to deal with everyday challenges at home or school.

Check out our blog at FASD Success

Brad and Sara Evans went from a loud, outgoing family involved in their community, to question why they ever left the house. Everybody knew them and loved them. Until they adopted their young great-niece and nephew. They anticipated challenges, because of the children’s background, but because they didn’t know about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, they were not prepared for the challenges they faced.

In the beginning, it was like walking on eggshells every day. They expected their niece and nephew to function like their 5 bio kids, including their 3 and 5-year-olds, and respond to the same parenting strategies, but they did nor could not.

If you are like Sara was, yelling to be heard, and Brad thinking discipline is all you need, then check out their story and find out what they did to turn things around and you can learn what’s working now from Jeff and other FASD parents and caregivers with 800+ years experience. For more information, click: Free Virtual Workshop. Once you register, you will get support, encouragement, strategies, and tips to deal with everyday challenges at home or school.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

In this episode of The FASD Success Show I am talk to entrepreneur, pizza store manager and now author – Kenny LaJoy about his recently released book: It’s OK to Be You. Living Well with FASD or Other Disabilities. We talk about his journey toward acceptance and how others can better live with disabilities. He shares his motivation for the book, as well as key advice he has for individuals and the people who support them. This is an uplifting episode that doesn’t paint a picture of unrealistic achievement, but it does provide encouragement on how you can accept who you are, build on your strengths and find ways to achieve realistic goals. And that it is ok to be who you are.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

Our first AMA episode (#112) was so successful I am back for Round 2 of the Q and Ehs! As with last time, I answer questions submitted by caregivers. And these six are real and raw.

Please note: I am not a doctor, lawyer or social worker. I do have lived experience, education and have interviewed many individuals with FASD, researchers, professionals in the field and coached hundreds of families. I like to say, I’m an advisor. You are the expert on your child.

In this episode you will get answers to questions about: responding to judgement about parenting choices with respect to accommodating symptoms or preparing our kids for ‘real’ life, is the wool being pulled over my eyes when they can do one thing but not another, do all kids exhibit big behaviour, will delays be permanent or limit his future, and how to provide supervision to teens.

So grab whatever you need to take notes, get comfy and get ready to get some answers. Thank you to everyone who sent in these very personal questions.

If listening to this episode, created a question in your mind, feel free to reach out and you just may get it answered in the next round.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

Have you heard the phrase, nothing about us without us? A lot of self-advocates use the phrase to remind us that we need to keep people with experience in the conversations. We’ve had quite a few individuals with FASD on the Show and I thought a great way to wrap up FASD Month was to hear from someone who openly shares her experience with many caregivers to help them understand their kids.

Heather Vickers received her diagnosis seven years ago when she was 44. She has been married since 2005, has a stepson with Autism, and is a cat mom and self-advocate. She candidly shares her before and after journey. The before is filled with difficult challenges trying to make it on her own without a diagnosis, understanding, and support. But she has an incredible story of transformation that occurred through sheer determination. She now shares her journey and insights to help other individuals with FASD and those that support them.

Show Notes: Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

Caregivers ask me all the time … how can I teach my loved ones skills to soothe themselves, stop a meltdown, or regulate themselves. Understanding the sensory system is key to answering those questions and you can get some ideas on how to do that with my guest this week, Jessica Sinarski. We first met Jessica in episode #099, Insight on Trauma, Attachment, and Sensory Systems. She returns to talk about her upcoming book aimed at normalizing sensory processing differences and helping kids understand their sensory systems.

We talk about her beginnings in work with trauma and resilience, the sensory system and why our kids get big feelings, how Riley the Brave came to be, and why stories are effective as teaching tools.

While this book isn’t about kids with FASD, it is a book that will help kids with FASD and their parents and caregivers. I think you will find Jessica has taken a subject that many adults don’t understand and put it in a format that will reach kids and their parents. Be sure to check out the Show Notes for a link to our blog to order a copy and follow Jessica.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

It’s September 9 and that means it’s International FASD Awareness Day! In honour of that, we have a unique and special treat for you today! What started out as a quick promo video for a new song, turned into a BONUS podcast episode because it was so great!

I am talking to Joanne Garofalo from Voice in a Million & FASD Hub Scotland and Darren Day, an actor and singer from the UK, about the release of a new song – You Are My Song – written by James Hawkins.

The cool part is that while this version is launched today - FASDay - a bigger project is in the works that anyone can participate in. You will get all those details, plus:

• Why Joanne wanted to broaden the Voice In A Million to include this song
• Why Darren became involved and how he will navigate any negative pushback
• Their hope for this song and for those who listen and share

An incredible opportunity we have when we work in this field is to witness the realization people have about how prenatal alcohol exposure may have touched their lives. I went into this interview thinking it would be a 5-minute video promo about a song and soon realized it was much more. Especially for Darren, who is now a champion for FASD. As he said, he is “eager like an athlete on the starting line.”

Check out the links below. I hope whatever you do today has meaning for you.  Together we will bring awareness to light about prenatal alcohol exposure, the strengths and brilliance of people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and the amazing support and advocacy of parents and caregivers.

Show Notes:

“You Are My Song”. Written by James Hawkins, performed by Darren Day, and supported by a choir of children with FASD and other neurodevelopmental conditions and their families. Download the song here: https://www.adoptionuk.org/fasd-month-22 

Previous Podcast with Jo:#082 Jo Garofalo: FASD The Hidden Disability

History Notes of FASDay: Day 50 OF 99 Days: The Birth of FASDay

Check out our website: FASD Success

Even if the school has started, there is still time to set the tone to help you and your child have the best year and relationship with school personnel. I brought this week’s guest back after seeing her last episode is in the top 7 downloads. This tells me you like what she is saying, and I know you will love her back-to-school tips!

Danna is the Director of the Foothills Fetal Alcohol Society and an FASD Instructional Coach with the Wrap2FASD program. We know back-to-school season is a tough transition for everyone. You are thinking about last year and wondering how this year is going to go. Danna shares her insights using an easy-to-remember analogy: T.I.P.S.

In addition, she reflects on her work in the early days of the growth of the Autism Community and offers her thoughts on how to get out of our “stinking thinking.” She leaves us with an invitation to get in touch with the person we are underneath the advocate. Let me know if you use any of these T.I.P.S. and how they worked! I would also love to hear from the teachers – what are your tips?

Check out our website: FASD Success

One of my goals with The FASD Success Show podcast is to bring you a wide variety of guests, including those who are leading experts in the FASD community. Today’s guest, Audrey McFarlane, the Canada FASD Research Network Executive Director, is no exception. She returns to the Show for the third time and brings updates on research and some exciting announcements of interest to our listeners from anywhere in the world.

Tune in to find out details about how you can get involved in a caregiver survey, and FASD Month, as well as announcements on a national FASD strategy, an international prevention series, as well as details about projects on substance use, housing, and mentoring new researchers.

If you want to know about some exciting new developments and projects and how to get involved, be sure to tune in and check out our blog for all the links.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

Today’s episode is a heavy topic that might make some people uncomfortable, but it is one that we should be prepared for – because it is inevitable at some point our children will be faced with a death – whether that is a pet, family member or friend. We reached out to Marj Wingrove who is a parent to an individual with FASD but also a Death Doula and producer and host of the Death Happens podcast.

We talk about her experiences as a caregiver, thoughts on why adults are uncomfortable with the topic, when to talk about it and five tips on how to talk to children with FASD about it. She also gives suggestions for parents on how to balance their own grief while trying to support their child(ren).

Be sure to check out the link in the Show Notes to find resources to help as well as to Marj’s podcast.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success

Have you ever wished you could understand how your loved one experiences the world? What do they think about their disability and what do they want others to understand? Today’s guest is going to help us do that. Last year, Miranda Eodanable was on The FASD Success Show to talk about a Photovoice Research Project she was about to undertake, asking young people to document their experience in pictures. In this episode, she shares the results from the group of eight individuals with FASD (ages 12 – 19 years old) who participated.

Miranda is an Educational Psychologist in Scotland responsible for neurodevelopmental assessment pathways with health services in areas of FASD and Intellectual Disabilities. She has worked in education systems for the last 20 years and has guest lectured on the Scottish Masters in Educational Psychology courses. Currently, she is working on a Ph.D. at the University of Edinburgh on the value and impact of an FASD diagnosis.

This project asked individuals with FASD to photograph their lives. Through these photographs, they shared what is essential in their lives at home, and school and what the diagnosis and disability of FASD mean to them.

Miranda also tells us about the next two research projects she will be undertaking with health and then educational professionals. This project certainly unearthed some fascinating research. While some of the themes and words that emerged confirm what prior research tells us, there are some interesting opposites. Make sure you stay tuned until the end when Miranda lets us know about an emotional response from an individual with FASD after he saw the results. Check the Show Notes for a link to the Project.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success.

It’s back-to-school season, and with that comes IEPs, IPRC, 504s, and education plans! If the terms or process are confusing and frustrating, we have covered you in this week’s podcast with Mark Courtepatte – one of the most popular Insider Experts in our CKS Coaching Program. But you don’t have to be in the program now to hear his expertise!

We talk about how Mark met Savanna, his partner who has FASD, how they became involved with the Hamilton Parents and Caregivers Support group that he co-chair, and how his interest in the education sector developed.

This episode is full of insight on how to work collaboratively with teachers and the school board. Mark is just as comfortable talking to the Minister of Children and Community Services as he is too overwhelmed by caregivers or children with FASD. You will find out why he thinks 99% of IEPs are not worth the paper they are written and gives you some concrete steps to follow from being confused and not sure how to proceed to become the confident advocate for your child. He provides some suggested rebuttals to resistance and gives you a gauge to know if the plan is working. You are going to find out why his workshops are one of the most popular in our CKS program.

Be sure to check out the show notes for a link to our blog where you can find his awesome support group website.

Show Notes:
Check out our blog for all the links at FASD Success.