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 my guest is Jennifer Kaufman, author of “Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk.” Jennifer brings a unique view to autism support, special education, family advocacy, and neurodiversity because she has lived this journey both as an educator and as a grandmother to a seven year old with autism.

What stands out most is Jennifer’s honesty about how her professional experience could not prepare her for the emotional side of being a grandparent. She shares practical ways to create welcoming spaces, the value of following the parents’ lead, and how she learned to shift from trying to fix autism to celebrating neurodivergent minds.

This episode is full of guidance and heart. It is a must listen for grandparents, parents, and anyone who wants to better support families raising autistic children.

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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 we talk about autism sibling experiences, early intervention, and family support as Katie Bullock shares the beautiful complexity of growing up as the middle child and only girl, with a younger brother who has profound autism. Katie remembers everything from the frightening Father’s Day when three year old Michael disappeared, to crashing his therapy sessions because they looked like fun play dates, to watching him become the beloved “mayor” of her school.

She reflects on Michael’s honest way of moving through the world, the laughter he brought to their family, and the challenges they faced, like missing soccer games and adding extra locks to keep him safe. These moments shaped Katie’s heart and eventually led her to a career in early intervention and speech language pathology, where she now helps other families find their own path.

Katie shares helpful insights about supporting siblings, understanding that not every sibling will become a caregiver, and finding joy in a child’s interests, even something as simple as lining up blocks. Her story offers validation, hope, and a reminder that the autism journey can be full of connection, growth, and unexpected joy.

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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 on Let’s Plant Houses I talk with Eric Jorgensen, a military dad who was suddenly left to navigate his son’s autism journey alone after losing his wife in 2012. From an 18 month battle for housing placement to dangerous behavioral incidents, Eric shares honest stories that reveal just how broken the system can be.

Instead of giving up, Eric turned his frustration into action by building clear roadmaps that help families understand Medicaid waivers, benefits, and the supports they need. His practical tips, including what to say and what not to say to caseworkers, offer real guidance for parents, siblings, and professionals.

This conversation is packed with tools, hope, and advocacy that truly makes a difference.

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Interested in improving educational outcomes for all children of all abilities?

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about inclusion, special education, autism advocacy, and early intervention as I sit down with Heather Eckner, an education professional and dedicated mother of two children with disabilities. Heather shares her family’s experiences navigating early intervention, finding the right school settings, and advocating for her children’s needs within the education system.

She also reflects on her own path from classroom teacher to a leader in the autism advocacy space, sharing her work with the Autism Alliance of Michigan and her recent success helping move statewide literacy legislation forward. Tune in for an honest and inspiring look at what it takes to support children with disabilities in school and beyond.

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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 of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about independent living, special needs housing, and family advocacy as I sit down with Kathy Remski, a mother who has walked this journey herself. Kathy shares her family’s story, from early intervention and facing challenges to finding creative ways to support her child’s growing independence.

We also explore SAIL, Solutions for Adult Interdependent Living, an organization she helped create to help families build sustainable housing and support systems for their adult children with disabilities. Kathy offers real insight and hope for families planning for the future. If you want practical ideas, encouragement, and a clearer path forward, 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 of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs fitness, inclusive sports, and family advocacy as I sit down with Todd Turner, the founder of Team GUTS. Todd shares his family’s journey raising his daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism, and how their experiences shaped his mission. He explains why fitness, movement, and community support can make a powerful difference for people with special needs.

Todd opens up about the challenges they faced, the early intervention that helped his daughter, and the triumphs that inspired Team GUTS to grow. This heartfelt conversation is filled with lessons, hope, and real encouragement.

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In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs parenting, caregiver support, and resilience as I sit down with Jess Ronne to hear her powerful story. Jess is an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and longtime advocate for families raising children with complex needs. She shares her journey raising her son Lucas, who has special needs including profound autism, and the emotional and practical challenges their family faced, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband.

Jess reflects on finding love again, growing her family, and helping Lucas move into supported housing as an adult while still caring for her own well being. She also talks about her new book, Caregiving with Grit and Grace, and the creation of The Lucas Project, which gives caregivers crucial resources and respite. This heartfelt conversation shines a light on strength, community, and the deep love that carries families forward.

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