My Autism Tribe

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**My Autism Tribe**

Educating, Supporting and Empowering the Autism Community.

Latest Episodes:

Helping Families with Special Needs During the COVID-19 Crisis Mar 24, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 56: Helping Families with Special Needs During the COVID-19 Crisis

With Amy Kelly

INTRO:

As we all are very much aware, COVID-19 is affecting everyone’s lives around the world. COVID-19 is a new strain that was discovered in 2019, and has not been previously identified in humans. There is so much information out there; some is factual and some is misleading. This leaves us with a lot of questions, but I believe it’s important to speak on how it might be affecting the autism community specifically. How do we help families who live with autism and disabilities? How do we help them cope with everything during this trying time? How do we explain this current situation to our children? Stay tuned to listen to today’s guest as she offers some insightful information that may benefit you and your family.

SEGMENT:

Today’s guest is Amy Kelly. She’s the mother to Danny, Annie, and Ryan. Her daughter Annie is diagnosed with moderate to severe autism, verbal apraxia, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and general anxiety disorder. Amy is the National Director of Family Engagement for Devereaux Advanced Behavioral Health, one of the nation’s oldest and largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare, and she also serves as a family representative on several special-needs boards in the community, locally and nationally. In addition to all of this, she participates with other patients and families in efforts supported by the American Board of Pediatrics Foundation to address children with special needs and the importance of quality care. She’s quite the busy lady, and sounds like she’s gonna to be able to share some really good stuff with us. Let’s welcome Amy!

CONCLUSION:

Please know that I’m thinking about everyone out there. I’m lifting you up, sending virtual hugs, high-fives, fist bumps…you name it. Now more than ever we have to be in this together. It’s an emotional time for everyone, and I do hope that if you need someone to listen that you please reach out. Send me a message on any of our social platforms, send me an email. I want to make sure that all platforms are open and available to you. If I can’t personally assist you, I’ll make sure that I find someone that can. You’re not alone. You never have been, nor will you ever be. Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe. Hang in there, and I’ll see you next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/DevCareers

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/devereux/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/DevereuxCEO

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrF_lQGwNvQHuqQ7xcSE0Gg

About Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health

https://www.devereux.org/site/SPageServer/?pagename=helping_families

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health is one of the largest and most advanced behavioral healthcare organizations in the country. They have a unique model that connects the latest scientific and medical advancements to practical, effective interventions in the treatment of behavioral health.

They were founded in 1912 by one of the first pioneers in the field, Helena Devereux. Today, they are a national nonprofit partner for individuals, families, schools and communities, serving many of the most vulnerable members of our society in areas of autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, specialty mental health, and child welfare.

Informed by the latest advancements in science and medicine, they combine evidence-based interventions with compassionate family engagement to help change lives. Their programs are offered in hospital and residential, community, and school-based settings.

They include:

Comprehensive Assessment, Diagnostics and Measurement to support data-driven care
Evidence-based Treatment & Special Education
Transition and Independent Life Services
Family Education and Professional Training
Research and Innovation to advance the field
Advocacy, Public Awareness and Prevention

Pixar's Bobby Rubio Shares His Autism Dad Story in "Float" Mar 09, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 55: PIXAR’S BOBBY RUBIO SHARES HIS AUTISM DAD STORY IN “FLOAT”

INTRO:

Hi, everyone! Welcome to this week’s episode with a very special guest, Bobby Rubio, an autism dad and a story artist at Pixar. You may have seen his personal and professional story in thousands of news feeds around the world. You don’t want to miss this one! Also, if you’re enjoying being a part of My Autism Tribe, and listening to our podcast, we would love for you to take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts, and of course, share us with a friend or your organization. That’s how we make our voices stronger. We’re also on all social platforms, so give us a follow and send us a message about topics that you would like to hear about. It’s important to us that we’re providing you with information and messages that are near and dear to your heart. Thanks for listening!

SEGMENT:

When parents first receive an autism diagnosis, and even in moments afterwards, they may feel like they’re drowning…and they’re not alone. Many of us may feel like this, but our guest today has created a special animation that touches every parent, and sheds a light on the positivity that can be found in dark times.

Bobby Rubio made his directorial debut with Pixar’s animated short “Float” on Disney Plus in November and it has captured our hearts and told many of our stories. Bobby has worked at Pixar as a story artist since 2012, contributing to “Inside Out”, “Incredibles 2”, and “Brave”, but “Float” broke through barriers as not only a short focused on neurodiversity, but also Pixar’s first work to feature a Filipino American animated character. The short tells the story of a father that discovers his son is different than others, and rather have the outside world view him as being different, the father keeps his son out of sight. Bobby’s own son, who was diagnosed with autism, didn’t handle the news of his son’s diagnosis well…again…just like many of us, and his testimony is so heart-felt and inspiring. Please welcome, my special guest today, Bobby Rubio.

CONCLUSION:

The story behind “Float” is not only a story that autism parents can relate to, but about some of the struggles that every parent has with their children. We need to love and celebrate people from all walks of life. Being unique or different isn’t bad, but beautiful. I truly do believe that, and it’s my hope that Bobby’s story touched you in the way that it touched me. The way that it inspired me. It’s ok to step outside of your comfort zone, and embrace the unknown. Thanks so much for joining me today, for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and for being an advocate for yourself and others. I’ll see you next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR BOBBY:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobbyrubio/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrypresh

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bobby_Rubio

Disney Plus: https://www.disneyplus.com/

“Float” on Disney Plus: https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/float/7dIYGyfvHWEJ

Financial Planning for Your Special Needs Child Mar 02, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 54: Financial Planning for Your Special Needs Child

With Nick Wallace

INTRO:

Raising a child with special needs can be one of life’s most fulfilling experiences, but it can also be one of the most costly. According to Autism Speaks, raising a child with autism costs on average $60,000 a year, but let’s face it…it costs a lot more than that for a lot of us depending on the severity and insurance coverage. It can be scary looking at the financial numbers, and even scarier when you wonder what would happen if something happened to you. Long-term financial planning is daunting, but no matter your child’s age, it’s important for you to start as early as possible.

Today, I’m speaking with Nick Wallace, a financial planner that focuses on planning for families in the special-needs community. His passion for this type of planning is inspired by the feeling of relief that he experienced after working through a game plan for his brother’s future, who has special needs. Nick is going to share some insights from the daily conversations that he has with families and planning for their loved ones.

CONCLUSION:

The process for financial planning for a special-needs loved one takes time, but you can start by laying out a timeline for what needs to be done.

Plan early, and revise as needed. It’s not easy or straightforward, and what makes sense for one family may not make sense for another. Get help. It’s doable.

Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll see ya next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

TOOLS THAT ARE OFTEN USED:

Various types of special needs trusts (with the help of a special needs attorney)
ABLE accounts (when appropriate if allowed by the state)
Various types of life insurance to answer the tomorrow questions or the 40 years from now questions
Various types of investments for retirement and estate planning

QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR FINANCIAL PLANNER:

Did we take into consideration my loved one’s special needs when we established my insurance and investment game plan?
Do I have enough life insurance to protect the care and income that I provide my family if something were to happen to me tomorrow? How did we arrive at this number?
What steps can I take to make sure that I am on track for retirement? How did we come up with these numbers?
Are my beneficiary designations on my life insurance and investment accounts set correctly so that my loved one with special needs’ benefits will not be in jeopardy?
What is the long-term game plan on leaving behind money for my loved one if I live a long life of caring for them, but pass away before they do?
A solid financial plan has answers for the “what-ifs” that life could throw at us tomorrow or 60 years from now. Nick recommends meeting with a financial advisor at least yearly to review plans and make changes if necessary.

NICK WALLACE CONTACT INFORMATION:

Facebook - @nickwallacefinance

Website – www.nickwallace.nm.com

Email – nick.wallace@nm.com

Socialization of Children with Autism Feb 24, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 53: SOCIALIZATION OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

With Dr. Annette Nunez

INTRO:

Hi, everyone! Welcome to this week’s episode primarily focusing on mainstreaming and socialization of children with autism. I’m speaking with Dr. Annette Nunez, the founder and director of Breakthrough Interventions. You may have even seen her on FOX News as she does many interviews on the power of positivity and autism. Stay tuned to listen to this awesome lady share her experience and advice on cultivating positive relationships through facilitated play and much more.

Also, a friendly reminder that if you’re enjoying the podcast, I would love for you to take just a minute to rate and review wherever you listen to podcasts and share with a friend. That’s how we make our voices stronger. Thanks for listening!

SEGMENT:

Dr. Annette Nunez conducts many seminars both nationally and internationally, in addition to consulting with schools in China and South Africa on autism interventions. She is a licensed psychotherapist and has worked with children on the spectrum and other related disorders for over 20 years. She has a B.A. in Psychology, a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Ph.D. in Quantitative Research Methods with a specialization in Child Development. She loves working with the whole family, so much so that she created an online community called Breaking Through Autism where she shares support and self-care tips. We all know that every journey looks different, but it’s the support system that you need to help guide, inspire and encourage you along the way. That’s what keeps EVERYONE moving forward. I’m really excited to introduce Dr. Annette Nunez to our show today.

CONCLUSION:

As Dr. Nunez has stated, “Success for me is not what I can do for your child. Success is when parents trust and support the process no matter how hard it can be. Success is when I have the privilege to watch my clients realize their full potential and have a positive outlook on life and their future.” Rather than focusing on the negatives that you may hear, “your child will never, can’t, etc.”, try focusing on the positives. Thanks so much for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I hope to see you next week.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Dr. Annette Nunez Bio

Dr. Annette Nunez is the founder and director of Breakthrough Interventions, LLC. She is a licensed psychotherapist and has worked with children with ASD and other related disorders for over 20 years. She received a B.A. in Psychology, an M.S. in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Ph.D. in Quantitative Research Methods with a specialization in Child Development. At UCLA, she studied and trained with renowned autism expert, Dr. Ivar Lovaas on Discrete Trial Training (DTT). She also received training from the Institute for Child Development in California on the Floortime Approach and developed a successful behavioral program that combined aspects of DTT and Floortime.

As part of her doctorate work at the University of Denver, Dr. Nunez developed the Children’s Social Competence Scale (CSCS). The CSCS is an early intervention evaluation tool that measures social competency in young children. She serves as the Program Director for Connect Us, a non-profit organization that helps children cultivate positive relationships through facilitated play. Her research interests include the mainstreaming and socialization of children with High Functioning Autism.

Dr. Nunez co-wrote the Friendship Is… book and is currently writing a book about the Breakthrough Interventions model that will be published this year. She conducts many seminars both nationally and internationally and has consulted with many schools in China and South Africa. Dr. Nunez also consults and supervises the therapists at the Breakthrough Interventions site in South Africa.

Dr. Nunez was honored by the Autism Society of Colorado as a finalist for the 2011 Faces of Autism Professional Award. You can see Dr. Nunez on FOX News as she as she does many interviews on the power of positivity and autism. She plans to continue educating parents and professionals about mainstreaming and socialization of children with Autism.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BreakthroughInterventionsLLC/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakthrough_autism/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BTInterventions

Podcast: http://www.btinterventions.com/episodes/

Atypical and Proud of It Feb 17, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 52: ATYPICAL AND PROUD OF IT

With Joy Johnson

INTRO:

Hi there! Welcome to this week’s podcast episode “Atypical and Proud of It”. I’m really excited to be speaking with behavioral therapist Joy Johnson who is also on the spectrum herself. I fell in love with her Instagram page because she is just super honest, and let’s be real…what better way to learn about neurodiversity than from someone that is on the spectrum. I hope you enjoy!

Also, make sure that you’re following My Autism Tribe on our social platforms, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and also YouTube. Let’s make our voices stronger.

SEGMENT:

Joy Johnson is an autism advocate, behavior and inclusion specialist, and is on the spectrum. She uses her social platform to not only share her thoughts on everyday life, but also her thoughts on some of the more popular autism research and science. It’s such a joy to welcome Joy Johnson to our show today!

CONCLUSION:

In the past, our traditional expert knowledge came from observations by professionals who often lacked the personal experience of being autistic, but by listening to autism advocates that are on the spectrum, we can gain a larger understanding and acceptance of autism. One might even say that those on the spectrum are the true experts, right? Thanks for listening to this week’s episode, and thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe. I’ll see ya next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfjohnson/

An Autism Dad's Field Guide Feb 10, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 51: AN AUTISM DAD’S FIELD GUIDE

With Tim Gonzalez-Smith

INTRO:

Hi there! Welcome to My Autism Tribe! Today I’m speaking with an autism dad, Tim. So often times, we are listening to the voices of mothers to children on the spectrum, but Tim is going to share all about his journey with his son, Rafa, and how he is educating and supporting the autism community from a dad’s perspective. Keep listening – he’s awesome!

And, if you’ve been enjoying this podcast, I would love it if you could rate and review us wherever you listen to podcasts and share with a friend. It helps make our voices stronger.

SEGMENT:

I started following Tim through his Instagram account @autismdads, because a dad’s perspective is just as important as a mother’s when raising a child on the spectrum. Tim knew this and wanted to connect with the autism community. Along the way he has provided support for so many people, and has also learned so much from others, which he shares with us. He has struggled with anxiety, just like a lot of us, and is such an awesome advocate for his son. Please welcome Tim.

CONCLUSION:

To all the dads out there that are traveling on this autism journey, thank you for everything that you do. We see you! You are a very important member of our Autism Tribe. Thanks for joining me this week, and thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe. I’ll see ya next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismdads/

BOOKS:

“The Autism Field Guide” – A book to help parents of newly diagnosed kids use empathy and understand as a way to support & empower.

“8 Ways to Support an Autistic Child and Improve Yourself” on the www.theautismfieldguide.com

From Real Housewives to Autism Advocate, guest Jacqueline Laurita Does it All Feb 03, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 50: FROM REAL HOUSEWIVES TO AUTISM ADVOCACY, JACQUELINE LAURITA DOES IT ALL

INTRO:

Hi, everyone! You are in for a special treat today. Today’s guest is none other than autism mom advocate extraordinaire and reality tv celebrity, Jacqueline Laurita. She was on Bravo TV’s “The Real Housewives of New Jersey” for seven seasons, and during this time her adorable son Nicholas received his autism diagnosis. She’s gonna share all about that, so stay tuned. You definitely don’t want to miss it.

Also, you may have seen, the My Autism Tribe podcast and nonprofit organization just recently celebrated our one-year birthday. That’s one year of successes, one year of challenges, and one year of getting to know each of you. Thank you for coming along on this journey with me, and for listening to this podcast! Your support means the world.

SEGMENT:

Jacqueline’s son Nicholas was diagnosed with autism in 2012 at the age of three, and since this time Jacqueline has become a leading advocate in campaigns for increasing autism awareness. She’s a female powerhouse with a mama bear’s love for her family. I’m so excited to introduce to you, Jacqueline Laurita.

CONCLUSION:

Whether you are a regular on a TV reality show, a teacher, a service provider, a stay-at-home mom, ALL of our voices are absolutely necessary in spreading autism awareness and acceptance in our communities. Maybe your platform is social media, or being a part of your child’s PTA. Don’t be afraid to make your voice stronger. Thanks so much to Jacqueline for her time and willingness to share her family’s story with us, and thanks so much to you for listening. You are an amazing member of My Autism Tribe, and without you none of this would be possible. I’ll see ya next week!

QUESTIONS ANSWERED DURING PODCAST:

Can you tell us more about the diagnosis story- who, what where when and how-
What have been some of the biggest challenges you and your family have faced?
Let’s talk about advocating and awareness- what recent work have you done that has helped with awareness?
With all the many projects you have going on and caring for your family how do you like to unwind and relieve stress?
What words of advice would you tell the person you were 10 years ago?
Can you share a story of success in your journey?
Tell us more about Simple Spectrum and why you’re so passionate about this company?
Can you tell us more about your nutrition background and why you got into this?
Why do you think Simple Spectrum is so different than most supplements out there?
Can you tell us the difference that nutrition and supplements have made for you guys? Gluten free/ casein free diets?
Do you miss being on the housewives? Any chance you will do it again?
Can you tell us more about The Lookover Ladies podcast? How’s that been going?

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR JACQUELINE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacquelinelaurita/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaclaurita/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacLaurita

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Get-Beauty-Wellness-Getting-Together/dp/1940363845/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=get+it%3A+a+beauty%2C+style%2C+and+wellness+guide&qid=1580314793&sr=8-1

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lookover-ladies/id1479048850

The Autism Cafe: A Place of Love and Self-Discovery Jan 27, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 49: THE AUTISM CAFÉ – A PLACE OF LOVE AND SELF-DISCOVERY

With Eileen Lamb

INTRO:

Hey, guys! Welcome to the My Autism Tribe podcast! If this is your first time, I’m glad you found us, and if you’ve been listening – welcome back! Today I’m speaking with Eileen Lamb. She’s the founder of blog The Autism Cafe, and she is also a writer and photographer. Born in France, she now lives in Austin, Texas with her husband and two sons, Charlie (6) and Jude (3). On her blog, she shares the ups and downs of raising a severely autistic child while being on the autism spectrum herself. You’re not gonna want to miss this one. I’m really excited to have her on the show today.

Also, don’t forget to check us out on social media. That’s Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. It’s My Autism Tribe across the board, so find us, follow us, join our tribe. We’d love to have you!

SEGMENT:

Before we start our interview, I’d like to share with you a quote from our guest today. You can find this on her blog The Autism Café: “Dear Strong Woman: You don’t show your pain because you heard that to be vulnerable is to be weak, that crying is a flaw, and that you need to get back up as soon as you fall. Yet you don’t. I’m here to tell you that it’s okay if you can’t. Strength is finding the courage to speak up in a world that has been cruel to you. Strength is letting people in, no matter how many times you’ve been hurt before. Strength is being able to say, “I’m not okay right now. I need you.” Those are such powerful words, right? I’m so happy to welcome Eileen to our show.

CONCLUSION:

Eileen’s unique story, coupled with her absolutely stunning photography, is an inspiration and tribute to all who overcome the impossible and persevere for those they love. There are so many people out there that are, for whatever reason, traveling on this journey alone…but it doesn’t have to be that way. I hope you, and others, find relief in knowing that there are a lot of us traveling the same road and you don’t have to travel alone. As Eileen points out, road trips can be fun – why not join others. We are not alone. Thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe and I’ll see ya next week!

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

https://theautismcafe.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theautismcafe/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismcafe/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/theautismcafe

Get a hardback copy here: All Across The Spectum

Get the Kindle version here: AATS on Amazon

Autism Adventures (with Big E) Jan 20, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 48: AUTISM ADVENTURES (WITH BIG E)

With Jacqui Folks

INTRO:

Hi there! Thanks for joining me today. I’m speaking with a busy mother of three young men, Jacqui Folks. Her middle son, Ethan, has autism, and she’s going to share her family’s story, along with some resources that she has been working on for the autism community.

I also want to let you know that this week will mark the one-year anniversary for the My Autism Tribe podcast. It seems like yesterday that I started it, but it’s been a whirlwind and here I am one year later…still breathing…high five!

If you haven’t had a chance to rate or review the My Autism Tribe podcast, it would absolutely be cool if you did. It helps people find our podcast – especially on Apple Podcasts. Thanks for listening, as always, and for going on this crazy journey with me. You’re the best!

SEGMENT:

Jacqui Folks son was diagnosed in 2003, a time when there were little resources out there for parents. Think about all the resources that we have now, including podcasts! She learned almost everything from books, but there was also something that she felt that was missing. I’m excited for her to share what that was. Please welcome Jacqui Folks.

CONCLUSION:

I love hearing inspirational stories from those in the autism community. We are a group of fighters ya know, and I mean that in a good way. A bunch of mama and papa bears, and fearless advocates, both on and off the spectrum that are clawing our way for better awareness and inclusion in our communities. It’s so awesome. Thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe, and I’ll see ya next week!

JACQUI’S BIO:

When my son was diagnosed in 2003 there were little to no resources out there for parents. I learned almost everything I know from books. However, there were no children’s books I could share with him for his learning experience. It was always suggested to me to write social stories, and I did, but nothing is more catching than a good children’s book.

Over the years I have kept them and my dream was to have a series of Autism friendly books, with a main character who has Autism, for spectrum kids to listen and learn from. Well, my dream is coming true. Book one in our series is here!! These stories are something I longed for as I was raising my son. They would have been so helpful to just pick up and read before each life event. I would have used them daily at home, in the community and in the classroom. I feel confident that they can help others in the future.

Here are a few reasons why:

-Simple, short, direct and honest text that is actually used in the home.
-Reference to visuals, picture boards
-The same returning character with a simple and fun name.
-The same start and end to each book, no matter how different the story or message is. Repetition is key!
-There are several stories about Autism but very few series. In my research I only found two and they were short series not based on daily life skills.
-My series does help with daily life skills but with fun illustrations and a relatable, adorable, supportive main character.

-A lot of parents and educators do not know how to access or write social stories. Why not provide them for these families and educators?

Awarded a top book of 2019 by Autism Live and featured in their 2019 Holiday Toy & Gift Guide:

https://www.facebook.com/adventureswithBigE/

FUBAR: Autism Parenting Jan 13, 2020

Show notes

EPISODE 47: FUBAR: Autism Parenting

With Jessica Temple

INTRO:

If you spend just one minute on Google searching for parenting memes, you’ll be inundated with hilarious quotes and pictures on how to survive parenthood. It’s something that us parents get a few good laughs from, while we’re silently screaming inside. How many times have we questioned ourselves, “Will I get through this?”.

My guest today, Jessica Temple, is the creator of a podcast called FUBAR: Surviving Parenthood with Special Needs Kids, and is also a board-certified clinical neuropsychologist. Her podcast is all about creating a non-judgmental space to realize that we all actually WILL live through this, and offer tips on making the survival of parenthood an actual possibility. It’s hilarious. Jessica and her husband have two children with special needs. Their oldest has autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and developmental delays, and their youngest child had a perinatal stroke and has developmental delays. It’s a complete joy to welcome Jessica to our show today.

CONCLUSION:

There’s no perfect way of parenting, and as Jessica points out, there are always “fails”, “nails”, and “comical tales” along our journeys. Learn to embrace them, and know you are not alone. We’re all in it together. Thanks for joining me on my journey, and thanks for being a part of My Autism Tribe. See ya next week!

Additional information:

Website: www.fubarpod.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/fubarpod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fubarpod

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