What would you do if doctors told you your 7-year-old would “never progress past second grade” and belong in a group home? Mike Knox thought his world was ending when his 2-year-old daughter Vivian had her first seizure and flatlined at the hospital. What followed were years of failed medications, schools that refused to help, …
How might having a child on the autism spectrum change a marriage? On this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I sit down with Paul Carroll, founder of Autism Dadvocate, a podcast and community he’s built for autism dads. Paul opens up about parenting his 18-year-old son Vaughn, who’s on the autism spectrum. He walks us …
What happens when a school principal who’s worked with autistic students for years becomes a grandparent to a child on the spectrum? This week on Let’s Plant Houses, mu guest is Jennifer Kaufman, author of “Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk.” Jennifer brings a unique perspective – she’s both …
How can growing up alongside autism shape not just your childhood, but your entire life’s calling? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Katie Bullock shares the beautiful complexity of growing up as the middle child and only girl, with a younger brother who has profound autism. She recalls everything from the terrifying Father’s Day …
Ever wonder why getting disability services feels like you need a PhD in bureaucracy? One dad figured out the system and created roadmaps for all 50 states. This week, I have honor of sharing Eric Jorgensen’s story on Let’s Plant Houses. When military dad Eric Jorgensen lost his wife After 5 years of military separation, …
Interested in improving educational outcomes for all children of all abilities? In this episode, I talk with Heather Eckner, an education professional whose personal journey with raising two children with disabilities has led her to become a passionate advocate for inclusive education. Heather shares her family’s experiences navigating the challenges of early intervention, finding appropriate …
What does it take to create an inclusive playground? In this episode, I sit down with AnnMarie Ottoy to explore her incredible journey – from navigating her son’s early diagnoses to becoming a fierce advocate for inclusion. She shares how her family turned challenges into opportunities, creating a supportive environment that uplifts not just their …
How can you create a safe, independent future for your child with special needs? Every parent wants to see their child grow into a happy, independent adult, but for families raising children with special needs, that path can feel uncertain. In this episode, I sit down with Kathy Remski, a mother who has walked this …
How do you find joy while raising a child with profound autism? In this episode, Julie Bullock, a mother of three, opens up about her family’s journey with her son, who has profound or severe autism. She reflects on their experience, from the initial diagnosis and the flurry of therapies to embracing acceptance and discovering …
On this episode, I talk with Julia Dapkus, a dedicated mother and advocate, about her family’s journey with her daughter, Isabelle, who has autism. Julia shares the challenges of navigating early developmental delays, the impact of early intervention, and the power of communication. She also discusses her inspiration for founding Communication is Key AAC, a …