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 educational settings, and advocating for her children’s needs within the school system. She discusses her transition from classroom teacher to a leader in the autism advocacy space, highlighting her work with the Autism Alliance of Michigan and her recent success in advocating for statewide literacy legislation.

Listen now!

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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 son but now their entire community.

AnnMarie also takes us behind the scenes of her volunteer work in Clinton Township, Michigan, where she helped bring an inclusive playground to life – a space where all children can play, belong, and thrive.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation advocacy and the power of inclusive communities!

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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 journey and is paving the way for others. She shares her family’s story, from early interventions and overcoming challenges to finding creative solutions for independent living. We also explore the game-changing role of organization she helped create, SAIL (Solutions for Adult Interdependent Living), which empowers families to build sustainable housing and support systems for their adult children with disabilities.

If you’re looking for real-life insights, practical strategies, and hope for your child’s future, this episode is for you.

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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 joy in the present moment.

Julie discusses the evolving understanding of autism, the importance of community support, and the crucial role of self-care for parents. Now that her son is an adult, she discusses the need for inclusive housing options and the shift in perspective from “fixing” children to celebrating their unique strengths and supporting their individual paths to fulfillment.

There’s so much to learn from Julie’s incredible journey – listen now!

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In this episode, I sit down with Todd Turner, the inspiring founder of Team GUTS—a nonprofit transforming lives through fitness and sports programs for individuals with special needs. Todd opens up about his family’s journey raising his incredible daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism. He shares heartfelt stories of challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. From the impact of early intervention and advocacy to the life-changing power of fitness and community, this conversation is packed with insights, hope, and inspiration.

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What would you do if you faced profound loss while raising a child with special needs—could you find grit and grace to move forward?

In this episode, I sit down with Jess Ronne—an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and passionate advocate for families of children with special needs—to explore this question and more as she shares about her family’s incredible journey. Jess opens up about raising her son, Lucas, who has profound autism, and navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of early childhood, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, Lucas’s father. She reflects on finding love again, expanding her family, and now transitioning Lucas to supported housing as an adult, all while balancing caregiving with self-care. Jess also discusses her new book, Caregiving with Grit and Grace, and the creation of The Lucas Project, a nonprofit providing vital resources and respite for caregivers. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of resilience, community, and love.

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In this episode, Lee Ackerman shares his honest experience as the sibling of his sister Gretchen, who has developmental disabilities. He reflects on growing up together and his role now as her lifelong guardian.  Lee also offers valuable insights into planning for the future and supporting families when caregivers are no longer there as the executive of an advocacy, planning, and guardianship nonprofit. Join us for a candid conversation about family, responsibility, and navigating the complexities of guardianship.

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In this episode, Lauren Christilaw shares her experience as a mother to her young son, Henry, who has autism. She reflects on the unique challenges of welcoming a new baby during the pandemic while uncovering developmental delays and then advocating for evaluation, diagnosis, and the necessary services. She also shares some of her experience navigating the schools and the importance of blended classrooms, data-driven results, and documented goals in IEPs to secure the right educational environment for her son. Join us for an empowering conversation about the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the strength that comes from standing up for our loved ones.

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