In this episode, you’ll hear Aisha open up about her journey with multiple mental health diagnoses and how she’s found ways to cope and thrive, even when things felt overwhelming. She shares real stories about what it’s like to juggle conditions like autism, anxiety, and depression, and how she learned to ask for help, set boundaries, and tune into her own needs instead of just powering through. Aisha’s experiences show you’re not alone in facing these kinds of challenges, and she offers tips you can actually use—whether that’s finding the right support system, practicing self-compassion, or just making space for the tough days. If you want honest advice and a reminder that progress doesn’t have to be perfect, this episode will give you the encouragement and practical ideas you need to feel a little more in control.,In this episode, Aisha shares her experiences living with multiple mental health diagnoses, including autism, anxiety, and depression, and discusses the ups and downs of managing them all at once. She talks about how she discovered effective coping strategies, from reaching out for support to learning the importance of boundaries and self-care. By opening up about her challenges and victories, Aisha reminds listeners that they’re not alone and that it’s okay to have hard days. The conversation is filled with practical tips and honest advice, making it a valuable listen for anyone looking to better understand how to navigate complex mental health journeys and find real-world ways to feel more balanced and supported. Discover how to navigate the complexities of multiple mental health diagnoses to regain control and balance in daily life. Celebrate real achievements that shine through despite facing ongoing mental health challenges. Embrace the power of self-acceptance and learn why owning your uniqueness transforms your emotional well-being. Master practical strategies tailored to managing ADHD as an adult and boost your focus and productivity. Unlock the benefits of building strong external support systems that can lift your mental health journey to new heights. Contact Me: https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudio https://aspergersstudio.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudio https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/ Support the show via my Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AspergersStudio Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

From Plaster Masks to True Voice: Neurodivergence, Burnout, and Finding Your Worth with Nikki (Dominique) Favreau I thought helping others heal meant I was healed—until this conversation showed me what it costs to keep a mask on. In this episode of the Neurodivergent Connection, I sit down with Nikki (Dominique) Favreau—former psychiatry and addiction nurse turned entrepreneur—who shares how a single moment in art therapy cracked a plaster mask and gave her voice back. We talk about the quiet ways burnout sneaks in, the difference between performing survival and living truth, and how worthiness ties to dignity, not productivity. You’ll hear how Nikki shifted from caregiving to building a software company with a remote team in the Philippines, why she calls herself a “perfectionist in remission,” and the surprising way she spots emotional intelligence when hiring. We also unpack ADHD through a family lens, the relief (and fear) of being seen, and the first gentle question she invites you to ask if you feel stuck behind your own mask. What did that mask protect—and what did it cost? How did one professor become both a catalyst and a mirror? And what simple, everyday practices help you return to your core essence? I reveal what changed for me too. About the Guest Nikki (Dominique) Favreau is a former mental health and rehab nurse with a master’s in mental health who now co-runs a software company. She supports entrepreneurs with hiring, training, and delegation, grounded in compassion, emotional intelligence, and lived neurodivergent experience. Key Timestamps 0:02 – Welcome and why this story matters now 1:10 – From psych nurse to entrepreneur: the unexpected pivot 5:18 – Self-compassion in addiction work (and what came back to teach her) 11:49 – ADHD, validation, and seeing patterns differently 19:02 – Hyperfocus, structure, and burnout’s slow creep 21:40 – Delegation, identity, and the “perfectionist in remission” 23:40 – The plaster mask: what it hid and why it hurt to remove 39:40 – Error management: why she asks her team to “make mistakes” 64:21 – Burnout vs. soul loss: what she couldn’t see from the inside 67:10 – The first gentle question if you feel stuck behind a mask If this episode resonates, share it with a parent, educator, or anyone exploring Autism, ADHD, or burnout. Subscribe for more conversations that center neurodivergent voices and real-life strategies. #Neurodivergent #ADHD #ArtTherapy #Perfectionism #Burnout Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Words Aren’t the Only Language: Parenting, AAC, and Advocacy with Jennifer McGee What happens when a teen with profound autism joins your family—and words aren’t available? This conversation gets real. In this episode, I sit down with artist and adoptive parent Jennifer McGee to talk about raising her nephew Isaiah, who is non-speaking, and how their family learned to listen beyond words. You’ll hear how she built trust, safety, and connection at home, the moment a “speech pad” changed everything at a restaurant, and why a routine medical visit led to a setback they’re still navigating. We also get into big-picture questions: how to advocate in IEP meetings without burning out, what true accessibility can look like in public spaces, and why art can reach hearts when explanations fall short. Plus, Jennifer shares the story behind her children’s book series, starting with “Izzy Can’t Talk,” and the surprising audience it’s reaching. If you’ve wondered how to support non-speaking kids, build a real support circle, and show up in your community with empathy, this episode will help you rethink what communication and inclusion can be. Key Timestamps 0:26 – Jennifer’s story and adopting Isaiah 3:05 – Building safety at home during meltdowns 4:00 – From signs and pictures to a speech device 6:48 – The orange drink moment that changed everything 8:18 – The future: caregiving, housing, and real fears 10:38 – Why “building a village” is harder than it sounds 14:49 – ABA today: what helped Isaiah engage and travel 17:15 – Inside the Izzy book series and what’s next 24:58 – The IEP wake-up call that sparked advocacy 31:44 – What accessibility could look like in everyday places 37:31 – Don’t give up: Jennifer’s message to families 38:31 – Where to find Jennifer’s work About the Guest Jennifer McGee is an artist, caregiver, and author of the children’s series beginning with “Izzy Can’t Talk.” She runs Inclusive Art House (https://inclusivearthouse.com), creating art and resources that honor dignity, communication, and inclusion for disabled individuals. If this helped you, subscribe and share it with someone who needs a little encouragement today. Keywords: non-speaking autism, AAC, speech device, IEP advocacy, inclusive classrooms, profound autism, caregiver support, sensory-friendly #Neurodiversity #AutismAcceptance #AAC #CaregiverSupport #InclusiveEducation Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Real Talk for Special Needs Dads: Community, Communication, and Caring for Yourself In this episode, I sat down with advocate and educator John Fella to talk candidly about fatherhood, support, and raising an autistic, nonverbal teen. This one’s practical, honest, and full of encouragement. Key Topics Covered Why dads often feel isolated—and how to build intentional community that actually helps Supporting nonverbal communication: AAC, letter boards, and why there’s no one-size-fits-all ABA today: what’s changed, what still depends on the therapist, and how to set boundaries How to create better IEP relationships and reduce friction with school teams Simple ways dads can bond with their kids when “traditional” activities don’t fit Main Takeaways Don’t do this alone: Community isn’t optional—it’s protective. Start with one person who “gets it.” If groups feel like too much, go one-on-one first. Vulnerability is strength: You can’t get the right help if you won’t say you need it. Share as much as you’re ready for—then let people show up. Communication is multi-path: AAC (like TouchChat), signs, body language, and typing can work in combination. Follow your child, not the hype. Progress requires patience—and fit. ABA is about the person delivering it: A great therapist adapts and respects your child. If it’s rigid, repetitive, or stressful, speak up and adjust. Build IEP relationships early: Humanize your child with classroom talks, share what they love, and connect outside high-stress meetings. Collaboration beats confrontation. Redefine connection: If playing on a team isn’t realistic, watch games together, shoot hoops your way, or take short walks. Consistent moments matter. Find structured support: Organizations like the Special Fathers Network (https://www.21stcenturydads.org/about/special-fathers-network/) offer groups and one-on-one mentoring—local and virtual. “One person is a start. If you don’t have that person yet, reach out—today.” John’s resources and writing are at johnfella.com (https://johnfella.com). He also has a memoir coming soon and a contribution to a book with Temple Grandin for educators and therapists. Listen to the full conversation for practical examples, how John mentors dads, and what’s worked with his son—so you can apply it in your own life today. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Shadow Work, Ego Death, and Finding Bliss: Facing the Dark to Find Your Light with Annie What if the parts of you you’ve avoided are the ones holding your wisdom? In this episode, I sit down with Annie to explore the real work beneath “love and light” — and why the dark isn’t something to fear. You’ll hear how Annie created her approach, Awakening the Seeds, after more than 10,000 sessions, and why she calls herself an “ego death doula.” We talk about grief, liminal spaces, and how nervous system regulation and shadow work support creativity, leadership, and everyday life — especially for those of us who are neurodivergent or living in survival mode. I reveal the moments that stopped me in my tracks, and you’ll discover how Annie helps people move from masking and reactivity to calm, clear choice. Curious how to know if you’re bypassing? What integration actually looks like? Or why ideas often meet us in the dark? We get into all of it — without shying away from the hard parts. About the Guest Annie is a healer and creator of Awakening the Seeds. She’s led over 10,000 sessions, trained across multiple modalities, and co-founded Seeds of Bliss, a space focused on bridging light and shadow, life and death, mind and emotion. Key Timestamps 0:22 – Annie’s early intuition and the moment everything changed 2:14 – Why therapy wasn’t her door and what opened instead 5:07 – Hitting walls with clients and creating a new modality 8:33 – Living in the liminal: life, death, grief, and growth 10:39 – The shadow side of healing (and why light alone falls short) 14:35 – Bypassing vs healing: simple signals to watch 15:51 – Ego death: letting go of identities that keep you small 19:01 – Seeds of Bliss: bridging opposites and cyclical living 39:58 – Neurodivergence, intensity, and tools that actually help 47:30 – Integration in real life: how you’ll know it’s working If this resonates, share the episode with someone who needs to hear it. Subscribe for more conversations that support neurodivergent folks, parents, educators, and caregivers. Check the show notes for Annie’s links and resources. #Neurodiversity #ShadowWork #EgoDeath #TraumaHealing #NervousSystem Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Support the show via my Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AspergersStudio In this episode, you’ll hear Whitney Price open up about her real-life journey as a mom to a child with autism and how facing those early challenges—like dealing with isolation, misdiagnoses, and financial stress—led her to create Unpuzzle Parents Connect, a thriving community for families just like yours. Whitney’s personal story is relatable and honest, from the confusion of her son’s diagnosis to discovering her own neurodiversity and learning to advocate fiercely for her family. She gets into what it’s really like to navigate therapies, insurance headaches, and the emotional highs and lows that come with raising a neurodiverse child. You’ll also find out how inclusion and community support can make a world of difference, not just for your kids but for you as a parent. If you’re searching for hope, practical advice, or simply want to feel less alone, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement you won’t want to miss.,In this episode, Whitney Price shares her personal journey as a mother to a child with autism, revealing the challenges her family faced with early diagnosis, limited resources, and feelings of isolation. Her experiences inspired her to start Unpuzzle Parents Connect, a supportive community offering guidance and connection to families navigating similar paths. Whitney discusses everything from the confusion and emotional toll of seeking answers for her son, to the practical struggles of accessing therapies and dealing with insurance issues. She also talks about discovering her own neurodiversity and how that shaped her approach to advocacy and support. Listeners gain a real sense of how inclusion and community can empower both children and parents, making the tough days a bit easier. The episode provides relatable stories, useful advice, and genuine encouragement for any family seeking understanding and connection on their autism journey. Whitney's Resources: Visit unpuzzledparentsconnect.com to learn more about the organization and access resources. Follow Unpuzzled Parents Connect on Facebook to join the community and stay updated on events and resources. Join virtual classes, therapy sessions, or activities offered by Unpuzzled Parents Connect, which are free to all members. Attend in-person or online Knowledge is Power monthly trainings and workshops provided by Unpuzzled Parents Connect. Participate in support groups, including the new DAD support group and Coffee and Connections events, by connecting through Unpuzzled Parents Connect’s platforms. Contact Me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/ https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudio https://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudio https://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection https://aspergersstudio.com/ https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

ADHD, Bipolar, and the 24-Hour Rule: Lessons From a Mental Hospital with Laura Greenberg Schiler She went in scared and left with 10 life lessons—and a book. We unpack ADHD, bipolar, and the 24-hour rule. In this episode, I sit down with Laura Greenberg Schiller, a former attorney, mom of three, and now author of Finding Flawless. Laura was diagnosed with bipolar at 39 and later with inattentive ADHD. Her time in a mental hospital didn’t break her—it gave her clarity, steadiness, and a simple rule that changed her relationships. You’ll hear how Laura went from high-achieving lawyer to retired by choice, why inattentive ADHD shaped far more of her daily life than she realized, and the one boundary she uses to keep mood swings from running the show. We also talk about writing a deeply personal book without losing yourself in the process, and what people get wrong about psychiatric hospitals. If you or someone you love is juggling ADHD, bipolar, or both, this conversation offers relief, perspective, and a few practical anchors you can start using today. About the Guest Laura Greenberg Schiller is a New Jersey-based former attorney turned author. Living with bipolar disorder and inattentive ADHD, she distills hard-won insights from her hospitalization into accessible lessons in her upcoming book, Finding Flawless. Key Timestamps 0:02 – Why Laura’s “worst moment” became a turning point 2:20 – Bipolar at 39: the manic episode no one saw coming 6:11 – Six hours a day of therapy—and the career truth it revealed 10:41 – ADHD strengths: hyperfocus and writing a book in weeks 13:59 – The writing plan that actually worked 24:43 – Inattentive ADHD: the diagnosis that finally made sense 28:15 – ADHD + bipolar meds: risks, limits, and what helped 35:24 – The rule that saved her marriage (and daily peace) 39:56 – Mental hospital myths vs. reality 52:02 – Where to follow Laura and her book Call to Action: If this episode helped you, share it with a parent, educator, or friend who needs a safe, honest conversation about neurodiversity. Subscribe for more real stories, practical strategies, and community. Find Laura: Instagram Finding Flawless (https://instagram.com/findingflawless) • Facebook: Laura Greenberg Schiller. Book: Finding Flawless (coming to Amazon). Keywords: ADHD, bipolar disorder, inattentive ADHD, mental health, neurodiversity, coping strategies, writing process, psychiatric hospital, medication, parenting #ADHD #BipolarDisorder #Neurodiversity #MentalHealth #InsideTheAspergersStudios Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Win Charles on Grit, Grief, and Raising Disability Awareness Education changes everything—and Win Charles shows how it powers resilience, storytelling, and advocacy. In this conversation, I sit down with Win Charles—author, podcaster, and disability rights educator—who was born with cerebral palsy and has built a life that challenges assumptions at every turn. You’ll hear how she turned grief into purpose, why she said yes to a Kona triathlon in seconds, and what training taught her about doing hard things when the world isn’t built with access in mind. We also get into her two podcasts—one focused on disability awareness and another giving women (especially women with disabilities) space to talk about mental health. Win shares the message she wants every audience to take home, the stereotype she refuses to let slide, and the surprising theme songs that keep her moving. If you’re a parent, educator, caregiver, or someone newly diagnosed, this episode will leave you with questions worth exploring: What shifts when we center access? How do we hold both ambition and advocacy? And what does “not giving up on your dreams” look like in real life? About the Guest My guest, Win Charles, is a podcaster, author of “I, Win,” and a disability rights educator. She’s competed in an Ironman event, speaks nationwide, and hosts shows on disability awareness and women’s mental health. Learn more at winningheart.weebly.com (https://winningheart.weebly.com). Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Autism Support That Actually Works Together: Multidisciplinary Care, Student Voice, and Real-World Coordination What does true collaboration for autistic kids look like—and how do we keep their voices at the center? In this conversation, I sit down with Leila Farshidi to unpack what happens when schools, clinics, and families stop working in silos. We talk about the real gap between theory and day-to-day care, why feeding and sensory needs get missed, and how value-based care could change the “minutes on a paper” mindset in IEPs. You’ll discover why learner preferences should be assessed as carefully as skills, what weekly coordination can do that yearly meetings can’t, and how automation may finally reduce the load on families. We also ask the hard questions: When do we invite autistic students into decisions about their own support? And what happens to access when training quality varies so widely? I reveal the simple shift I wish schools made right now—and Leila shares the system she’s building to make it easier. There’s more in part two, including disparities across communities and what parents still need after diagnosis. About the Guest Leila Farshchian is a disabilities care provider with 30 years’ experience focused on Autism Spectrum Disorder. She leads a 70-provider practice in Northern New Jersey, founded ABA Toolbox (becoming Circathera: Circle of Care), and serves as Chair of Education and UN representative for the International Health Awareness Network—Global Schoolhouse, working to close the digital divide in care and education. If this episode helps, share it with a parent, educator, or clinician. Subscribe so you don’t miss part two. I’d love your questions for our next conversation—send them my way. Keywords: Autism Spectrum, IEP, ABA, occupational therapy, speech therapy, feeding challenges, sensory needs, value-based care, multidisciplinary team, ARFID, caregiver support #Autism #Neurodiversity #IEP #SpecialEducation #Caregivers Contact Me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/ https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudio https://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudio https://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection For a limited time, schools, clinics, and universities can receive 25% OFF when signing up for an ABA Toolbox account by 12/31/25. Claim your 25% off by signing up for a demo today!  https://meetings.hubspot.com/aba-toolbox/aba-toolbox-comprehensive-demos Or contacting hello@abatoolbox.com (mailto:hello@abatoolbox.com) for more information. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Masking, Late Diagnosis, and Finding Yourself with Coach Tara Trievel Late ADHD diagnosis, self-identified autism, and 25 years coaching—Tara and I get real about masking and identity. In this episode, I sit down with parent mentor and social communication coach Tara Trievel to talk about what happens when you realize the people you’ve been helping are a lot like you. We get into what masking really looks like day to day, why it isn’t always a bad thing, and how to use it with intention instead of exhaustion. You’ll hear how Tara reframed ADHD and autism through lived experience, the surprising shift that made social situations less draining, and why focusing on strengths changes everything at home and in the classroom. We also tackle sticky moments—like job interviews, soft skills, and when to disclose—plus the nervous system piece most support plans miss. If you’re a parent, educator, or newly diagnosed adult wondering “Is this me?”—this conversation will help you make sense of your past and feel clearer about your next step. About the Guest Tara Trievel is a parent mentor and social communication coach for ASD families with 25 years of experience. She was late diagnosed with ADHD and self-identifies as autistic. Tara hosts the Unapologetically Mom podcast and supports families and professionals at https://www.2besocial.org/ and at the Unapologetically Mom podcast Keywords: autism, ADHD, late diagnosis, masking, nervous system, parents, educators, soft skills, interviews, neurodivergent support Call to action: If this resonated, subscribe and share with someone who needs it. Comment with your questions on masking or late diagnosis, and check out Tara’s site and podcast for more support. #Autism #ADHD #Neurodiversity #LateDiagnosis #Mask Contact Me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reidmiles/ https://www.twitter.com/AspergersStudio https://www.youtube.com/@AspergersStudio https://www.instagram.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection https://www.facebook.com/TheNeurodivergantConnection Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.