Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America

In this episode, I sit down with Erin Geddes to explore the emotional and often overlooked experience of growing up neurodivergent without a diagnosis. She shares what it feels like to move through childhood and adulthood believing you’re “not trying hard enough,” when the real issue is that the world isn’t built to recognize or support different ways of thinking. And I have to ask—how many kids are still silently living that reality today?

For Erin, writing her book wasn’t just a creative outlet—it was a process of self-understanding. She has lived her life navigating two different worlds: the neurotypical systems she was expected to fit into, and the neurodivergent identity that finally makes sense of her challenges and strengths. That dual perspective allows her to translate between experiences in a way most people can’t. And it raises an uncomfortable question: why do we keep asking individuals to adapt while our systems stay exactly the same?

When we turn to education, the urgency becomes impossible to ignore. Teachers are overworked and under-supported. Parents are left to advocate alone. Kids are evaluated against standards that ignore the full spectrum of ability, learning styles, and human development. And we still pretend the problem is effort or discipline. Where is the baseline everyone should be guaranteed—food, safety, education, dignity?

Erin argues that neurodivergent voices reveal weaknesses in our systems early and clearly. When we listen, we improve. When we don’t, everyone loses. Inclusion isn’t a favor—it’s how society evolves.

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Find more info on Erin Geddes here:

Get In Touch/School Speaker Requests: andthatsokayinfo@gmail.com

We continue our conversation with TK & KT of Allies for Humanity, focusing on the importance of advocacy for autism and the need for community engagement to create meaningful change.

We explore the impact of foster care on children, particularly those with autism, and emphasize the collective responsibility of humanity to support vulnerable populations.

We also look at the role of music and community in healing and fostering hope, as well as the challenges posed by political systems in effecting change, especially in this day and age. We know that we can't rely on the status quo and powers that be to do much. But what kind of revolution will it take?

Ultimately, TK, KT and I call for a shift in narrative and a commitment to action in order to create a better future for all.

Allies For Humanity stands for:

Dignified Housing - "Every person deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and free to be who they are. We co-create sustainable, empowering solutions with our neighbors—honoring housing as a fundamental human right and a foundation for healing." 

• Holistic Well-Being - "True sovereignty begins with well-being. We cultivate mind, body, and spirit by empowering individuals to trust their own wisdom, walk their own path, and receive support through community and holistic healing practices." 
• Radical Transparency - "Trust is built on openness. We practice full transparency in finances, decisions, and impact - ensuring clarity and accountability in all we do." 
• Sacred Reciprocity - "We believe in the power of mutual support. Every act - whether offering skills, time, resources, or presence - plays a vital role in strengthening our community and creating lasting impact."

You can learn more about Allies For Humanity here:

In the first of a two-part episode, I am so pleased to welcome my friends TK and KT to the podcast. They are the co-founders of Allies For Humanity in Indianapolis, an organization dedicated not just to housing those in need but to building strong, healthy communities.

In part one, we explore the themes of autism advocacy, humanity, and the importance of creating safe spaces for individuals, particularly those who are unhoused. We discuss the significance of sovereignty, how small acts of kindness can have a significant impact, and how community support is essential for unhoused individuals.

Small acts of kindness can make such a difference in this world, even when at the same time we fight for the necessity of systemic change to address homelessness and mental health issues. Everyone has the power to contribute to positive change.

Allies For Humanity stands for:

Dignified Housing - "Every person deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and free to be who they are. We co-create sustainable, empowering solutions with our neighbors—honoring housing as a fundamental human right and a foundation for healing." 

• Holistic Well-Being - "True sovereignty begins with well-being. We cultivate mind, body, and spirit by empowering individuals to trust their own wisdom, walk their own path, and receive support through community and holistic healing practices." 
• Radical Transparency - "Trust is built on openness. We practice full transparency in finances, decisions, and impact - ensuring clarity and accountability in all we do." 
• Sacred Reciprocity - "We believe in the power of mutual support. Every act - whether offering skills, time, resources, or presence - plays a vital role in strengthening our community and creating lasting impact."

You can learn more about Allies For Humanity here:

Kari Sheward of the Tangram organization in Indianapolis joins me today to talk about their coaching and support work for people with disabilities, but also her perspective on advocacy and choosing the battles that are necessary.

We get pulled in many directions, but this is what brings us back to the collective responsibility to defend rights and advocate for those less able to do so themselves.

We talk about how advocacy requires courage and a willingness to take risks, and how people are watching our actions and responses. Speaking out reduces fear and encourages others, it is collective action that creates that ripple effect.

Community engagement can lead to positive societal change, whether in micro-actions or as an organizer or leader. Everyone's contribution is valued.

This podcast is an effort to encourage that action, no matter where you live, and to bring people and ideas together. In this time of crisis and threat, it is so important to remember that you, I, we: We Are Not Alone.

You can learn more about Kari and Tangram here:

In this week's episode, I travel to Oklahoma to meet N'Kiyla Jasmine Thomas, candidate for US Senate, who shares her journey as an autism mom, nurse, and military spouse.

Jasmine and I discuss the importance of indigenous rights, environmental stewardship, and the role of matriarchy in her culture. She also opens up about her personal experiences with motherhood, navigating healthcare systems, and the challenges of being a single mother.

Jasmine's advocacy for autism awareness and the need for resources highlights the struggles faced by families in similar situations.

This was such a wide-ranging discussion, and I'm thankful to Jasmine for her time. I think in turn she was appreciative of having the opportunity and the platform to dive deeper into these topics, to go past the sound bite and short clip. We explore the challenges faced by millennials and younger generations, including the impact of capitalism on mental health, the importance of empathy and community responsibility, and the role of young leaders in politics.

We talk about the need for a more equitable society, the influence of money on social dynamics, and the complexities of racial identity.

Ultimately, this conversation is a message about the importance of working together to build a better America for future generations. We need to be thinking not just 12 months or 2 years ahead, but what kind of society do we want to build, or dare I say: rebuild?

You can learn more about Jasmine and her campaign here:

Jennifer Wiese joins me to talk about the importance of including people with disabilities in the workforce, addressing the stigma and barriers that still exist.

Jen is well placed to have a keen perspective on this, as she is the owner with her husband of BeeFree, producers of gluten-free snacks and a true Indiana success story.

Through their non-profit arm, BeeFree Bakes, they provide jobs and resources for adults with autism and other disabilities, empowering them to thrive in a supportive environment. Their oldest son was diagnosed with autism when he was 8 years old, and in their search for resources and support they ultimately took their own initiative to provide these things to others in similar situations.

Jen expresses hope for a future where employers recognize the value of diverse abilities, and see individuals with disabilities as valuable contributors to the workforce. Visibility and representation of people with disabilities is crucial, and we explore how the stigmas surrounding disabilities can be dismantled through awareness.

Find Jen and BeeFree's info here:

My friend Phoenyx Powell joins me to share her journey as an advocate for accessible travel, discussing her personal experiences with chronic illness, neurodivergence, and the impact of a traumatic brain injury.

Phoenyx emphasizes the importance of pacing oneself while traveling, the need for disability awareness, and the significance of educating children about acceptance and differences. Through her story, Phoenix highlights the challenges but also the triumphs of living with a disability, the role of humor in coping, and the importance of open-mindedness in parenting.

We both feel that there is a responsibility of the current generation to produce good in a complex world, and that travel and cultural immersion go a long way in fostering understanding and connection.

This is a conversation about resilience and joy in navigating life's challenges, and paying it forward through advocacy.

Find Phoenyx's info here:

I have a bonus episode for you this week (in addition to my upcoming conversation with my friend Phoenyx), which features my friend Moulay Hicham Aamalki and his wife Kenia, who lead wellness retreats to Morocco.

My friend Christina McGairk joins me to share her the multifaceted journey of autism advocacy, and we focus focusing on our personal experiences as single mothers of autistic children.

As always, there's so much to think about, things that people often forget, and the scale of it is immense. Hair care, dietary preferences, potty training, communication devices, educational experiences and school dynamics, navigating the challenges of autism and bullying, and that just scratches the surface.

But we're here to highlight the significance of community support, mentorship, and advocacy in navigating the complexities of raising autistic children.

Christina also shares insights from her journey of writing a devotional aimed at supporting single mothers of children with exceptional needs, and the need for awareness and action in the autism community.

Further links and research related to this episode:

In Part 2 with Ellerie, we address the importance of multiculturalism and diversity in the United States, reflecting on her personal experiences from military service to higher education.

Ellerie is a deep believer in the power of curiosity. She puts a passionate emphasis on the value of being curious about others' lived experiences, and the need to address unconscious biases.

We also share our thoughts on having difficult conversations, the obligation to stand against what is wrong, and the significance of a person's individual contributions in creating a positive impact. This all done through the lens of our current societal issues, such as the impact of transphobia in the military, and the responsibility of standing up for what is right.

If Ellerie's spirit and energy speaks to you, she would love to hear from you.

My friend Ellerie Rollins joins me for a conversation about autism, the neurodiverse community, diversity, empathy, and curiosity, all from a lens of a recently retired United States Air Force Reservist. Ellerie spent years in the reserve as an airplane mechanic, and so can speak to the experience of being a different or unique person within a larger group or community.

We chat about the historical and social aspects of American military service, including multi-generational service, the diversity of the military, and its impact on civilian life. Ellerie discusses the overlap between the military and the LGBTQ+ community, reflecting on recent developments concerning the trans community in the Air Force.

Most of all, we underscore the importance of open conversations, curiosity, and embracing a multicultural approach to strengthen America. Especially in response to the example that our so-called 'leaders' are setting at the moment.

Ellerie is a life coach who focuses on helping ex-military women transition to civilian life, taking those strengths and experiences to forge the life they want to live, on their own terms.

In the final part of my conversation with College Internship Program (CIP) Program Director Ed Roe, we look at different practical situations where our children with autism can function and thrive, and Ed shares his experience observing the "autistic burnout" - when newly-arrived college students face too many life tasks all at once, and after about six weeks start to shut down.

CIP's focus goes beyond just the concept of independence, but to recognizing "interdependence," how people of all backgrounds need to live and work together, and how neurodivergent students fit in to our world.

Whether it's in the workplace or through travelling, we can create welcoming and comfortable environments for everyone involved.

It just takes a bit of education and understanding.

As Ed points out, the problem is that, "People are not incentivized to care."

Yes, it's a question of money, funding, training and responsibility, legal or otherwise.

But it's also about fostering a society as a whole that cares. Where people recognize that there are others less fortunate, who just need some extra support and understanding.

Not only could one day that be us, or someone we care about, but empathy for others is a meaningful, genuine and very human trait to have.

My thanks to Ed Roe for his time in this series, and for his wonderful work at CIP in Bloomington, Indiana and beyond.

Further links and research related to this episode:

Ed and I talk in part 3 about the emotional release of parents and caregivers arriving at CIP, and realizing that there are indeed others who care about their kid just as much as they do, and in the same way.

Because they get it, the understand. You are no longer on an island unto yourself, support is here.

We chat about understanding the "rules and norms" of society and how most of the CIP students are either rule followers or rule breakers.

But what are those rules anyway? Could it be that our children are showing us a different way to approach functioning in society, not to mention how we work, how we communicate and how we interact with others?

"Whatever your kid's thing is, especially if they have autism, find it, embrace it. Just let them do it. Let them do their thing and watch them light up."

Further links and research related to this episode:

Ed Roe and I continue our conversation about the College Internship Program (CIP), and in part two talk about life in Bloomington, Indiana.

Bloomington thus far remains an island of safety and acceptance for people of all different backgrounds and situations. But as we know, that status quo is constantly under threat, particularly in a red state such as ours.

We've seen the University of Indiana be targeted just like so many other universities, and we have to be prepared for impacts to programs and support systems such as CIP, which are so vital for those in need.

Ed himself has a multiracial marriage, a neurodiverse child, and of course is on the front lines of service and interaction with all kinds of unique families. He knows first hand the impact and importance of these programs.

We'll then continue in part three, circling back to countering this concept of autism as a "burden," how we need to encourage our children to be themselves, and how to get them out there and interact with people.

Our communities are so much better for it.

Further links and research related to this episode:

Do you feel that autism in your family is a burden?

I didn't think so.

We need to get the real stories out there of the joy and wonder that neurodiversity brings to us all. In this week's episode, I'm joined by Ed Roe, the Program Director of the College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana.

Ed shares his journey from working in K-12 education to his current role at CIP, which supports neurodivergent students transitioning to adulthood by focusing on life skills, social skills, academic support, and career exploration.

Ed emphasizes the importance of empowering neurodivergent students to achieve independence, and highlights the positive impact on both students and their families. CIP is known for a hands-on, individualized approach to education, for involving families, and for the importance of creating a safe and accepting environment for students.

We also touch on CIP's strong stance against recent controversial statements about autism, reinforcing the inherent value and potential of neurodivergent individuals.

Further links and research related to this episode:

My friend David Delisle is here to share his journey of promoting financial literacy through engaging and educational mediums, like his graphic novel, 'The Golden Quest.' David discusses his approach to making financial education engaging for both children and parents by focusing on money mindfulness and values.

We also delve into David's recent trip to India with his sons, and how the challenging experience has strengthened their family bond and taught them resilience.

It's a conversation that covers two grounds: financial literacy, and travel - two topics that have always interested me. But in particular, I want to encourage autism and neurodiverse families that you can pursue these things too.

We share our parenting experiences, particularly in the context of raising neurodiverse children, and the impact of travel on building resilience and empathy. Coming from Canada, we get into cultural perspectives and contrasts, whether it's healthcare, religion or social issues.

David agrees that we need to emphasize the importance of curiosity, empathy, and open-mindedness in understanding different viewpoints and fostering a kinder, more inclusive world.

And, he also teases his upcoming projects, including a card deck, and a board game aimed at further promoting financial literacy in a fun and thoughtful manner.

Further links and research related to this episode:

Today we welcome John Dickerson and Kathy Davis for a conversation about the history, current state, and future of disability rights and services in Indiana.

John shares his long tenure in advocacy starting in 1973 with the Arc of Indiana, recounting the evolution from institutionalization to more inclusive community-based services.

Kathy, the Lieutenant Governor of Indiana from 2003-2005, reflects on her earlier pivotal role as Secretary of the FSSA during a crisis at Newcastle State Developmental Center and the subsequent reforms.

We talk about the importance of high expectations, advocacy, and systemic changes that have led to more inclusive and supportive environments for individuals with disabilities.

Recent threats from the Indiana government and federal government have suggested that disability rights could be rolled back, even to a return to forced institutionalization of decades past.

As much as it is hard to believe that we may have to fight this fight again, we need to be clear-eyed and prepared for what may be coming in the near future.

John and Kathy are here to stress the significance of building a better future through community involvement, policy innovation, and continuous advocacy.

Further links and research related to this episode:

I continue my important discussion with lawyer Jeff Stinson this week in part two, where we dig deeper into the complexities of guardianship issues, particularly concerning individuals with autism, ADHD, and other disabilities, and the unsettling national conversations around these topics.

We discuss the historical and contemporary aspects of guardianship, the importance of alternatives to family guardians, and the resources available in Indiana. Jeff and I talk about special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, and the critical need for early and proactive planning for the futures of special needs individuals.

We also circle back to the vital role of volunteers, the benefits of internships for young people considering elder law, and the necessity of educating families about legal options to prevent crises. devices, and ensuring comprehensive care plans are in place.

How to reach Jeff Stinson and Stinson Law Firm:

My conversation this week is with lawyer Jeff Stinson of Stinson Law Firm, in Carmel, Indiana. Jeff specializes in Elder Law, and has a particular interest in how it applies to parents and caregivers of children with autism, and the broader disability community.

Jeff emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, especially when a child with disabilities approaches the age of 18. He shares insights into Medicaid waivers, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and the new supportive decision-making framework, while also highlighting the challenges and solutions related to transitioning to adulthood.

Jeff also discusses his personal journey into this law specialty and the collaborative efforts of a coalition working to protect disability services in Indiana.

How to reach Jeff Stinson and Stinson Law Firm:

For Part Three of our conversation with Sarah McCorkle, our discussion centers on autism, genetic testing, and the emotions and ethical considerations faced by parents.

We look at the fear of misuse of genetic data, distrust in political figures like RFK, government involvement in medical decisions, and the balance between scientific advancement and privacy concerns.

The importance of community support, parental advocacy, and the need for society to become more inclusive of autistic individuals is paramount. Our conversation also touches on broader social and political issues, emphasizing the importance of human rights and the need for systemic change to protect vulnerable populations.

How to reach Sarah:

Activist and organizer Sarah McCorkle joins me for this series of conversations on autism and community. We had lots to cover, and are ever-conscious of the time of busy parents so we've split it into three parts!

Sarah, with her mother, runs the 'We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym' in Carmel, Indiana, a place for sensory-seekers, but moreover, a space for any and all children to interact with one another. It's so important for both neurodivergent and neurotypical children to play together and learn from each other.

Sarah emphasizes the significance of creating a community for both parents and children, noting how isolating being an autism parent can feel. There's a lot of organic community-building that happens at the gym.

We touch on the lack of resources in rural areas, and Sarah shares her own experiences as an autism mom, the challenges of navigating resources and the need to advocate for her children's needs.

We also look at breaking generational attitudes and finding creative solutions to daily challenges faced by autism parents, especially in a current world fraught with backlash, misinformation and wedge politics.

How to reach Sarah:

Activist and organizer Sarah McCorkle joins me for this series of conversations on autism and community. We had lots to cover, and are ever-conscious of the time of busy parents so we've split it into three parts!

Sarah, with her mother, runs the 'We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym' in Carmel, Indiana, a place for sensory-seekers, but moreover, a space for any and all children to interact with one another. It's so important for both neurodivergent and neurotypical children to play together and learn from each other.

Sarah emphasizes the significance of creating a community for both parents and children, noting how isolating being an autism parent can feel. There's a lot of organic community-building that happens at the gym.

We touch on the lack of resources in rural areas, and Sarah shares her own experiences as an autism mom, the challenges of navigating resources and the need to advocate for her children's needs.

We also look at breaking generational attitudes and finding creative solutions to daily challenges faced by autism parents, especially in a current world fraught with backlash, misinformation and wedge politics.

How to reach Sarah:

Mira and I pick up from where we left off in part one, after a break for a coffee refresh and to stretch our legs. Remember to look after yourself and take the time you need to be productive and effective activists.

Mira shares some more of her personal story with chronic illness. We talk about military veterans, disability rights and complex medical conditions. Gay rights, advocacy and stepping up to the fight.

Like in part one, where we explored the question of rights and respect, in part two we extend that to the question of empathy. Why, in a society that says it basis itself on moral standards and religious teachings, do we struggle so much to simply empathize with what our fellow neighbors and citizens are going through?

Perhaps if we can tackle that question, we can start to come together at last. But sadly, it doesn't look like it will be as easy as it sounds.

Thank you for joining us for the conversation.

How to reach Mira:

I'm joined by fellow activist Mira Hall for a wide-ranging discussion on identity, respect, recognition, neurodiversity, activism, and most importantly: the nature of human rights.

From religion to education, behavioral health, mental health, HIV/AIDS, the political climate, gender identity, school bullying, American values, patriotism, genetic testing, chronic illness - we cover a lot.

And yet underpinning it all is the question of, "What it means to be a good human." How we treat each other, especially the most vulnerable. What do we want this country to stand for?

As per any deep, multi-layered conversation, we needed extra time and thus two parts! Start with part one here, and come back for part two, where we explore more stories from activism, advocacy and action.

How to reach Mira:

Parent and autism caregiver Tabitha Zeigler hosts this fiery, truth-packed podcast filled with people doing the work in the trenches for autism and neurodiversity advocacy.

These everyday heroes are leading the way for the next generation. At a time when so much is at stake, ordinary individuals rise up to fill the inequalities in our society.

Join us in our struggles and triumphs while trying to provide resources, access, and programs for all. We welcome you to the fight.

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