LPH75: Authors Brigitte and Joe Shipman Write About Autism as Family

By Wendy Ernzen | October 26, 2026

What can a mother and son teach us about life with autism?

On Let’s Plant Houses, we talk with Brigitte Shipman, a mother and coach, and her adult son with autism, Joe Shipman, about autism parenting, caregiver burnout, and finding hope. They share their two-in-one book, which brings together A Mother’s Guide Through Autism and Through the Eyes of the Guided, offering two perspectives on their family’s experience.

Brigitte reflects on putting her needs aside for years and why parents need emotional support, self-love, and people who understand. Joe shares his experience with sensory challenges, learning to connect with others, and finding meaning in his life. We also explore how his writing helped Brigitte understand him more deeply. Together, they remind us that listening to each other can open the door to greater understanding, connection, and hope.

More about the show…

Learn more their two-in-one book: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book

Find more information about LPH host, Wendy Ernzen https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyernzen.

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