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:
Website: thetangramway.org
Instagram: @thetangramway
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/tangram-business-resourcing
Facebook: @thetangramway
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website: https://www.jasmineforok.com
Instagram: @nkiylaforoklahoma
TikTok: @jasmineforok
Facebook: N’Kiyla 'Jasmine' Thomas: U.S. Senate 2026
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website: http://beefreegf.com/
Instagram: @beefreeglutenfree
TikTok: @beefreeglutenfree, @hifromjen
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeeFreegf
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-wiese-7b98392a
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website: https://phoenyxtravels.com/
YouTube: @phoenyxtravels
Instagram: @phoenyxtravels
Facebook: @phoenyxtravels
TikTok: @phoenyxtravels
Pinterest: @phoenyxtravels
LinkedIn: @phoenyxpowell
New article: "Phoenyx Powell of Greenville, NC on Life, Lessons & Legacy" (Oct. 15, 2025)
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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.
In fact, they have an upcoming trip that runs from October 26-31 and there is one spot left! If you think you can jump on it, visit the site here and let them know! https://easehealingretreats.com/
Our chat today not just goes over their trip and back story running retreats, but why they want to make these trips available to the community, because they have a daughter with ADHD.
Moulay Hicham and Kenia share their personal experiences with grief and healing, the importance of mindfulness, and the cultural richness of Morocco as a backdrop for their retreats. We talk about the significance of community, accessibility of healing practices like hammams, and the importance of family travel, cultural exposure for children, and the challenges of parenting, especially for those with children with disabilities.
Healing is a journey that involves multiple stages, and retreats can provide healing and self-reflection opportunities. So whether it's right now, or in the future, consider looking after yourself, which helps empower you to look after the others in your life.
Find more info on Ease Healing Retreats here:
Website: easehealingretreats.com
Instagram: @easehealingretreats
Facebook: Ease Healing Retreats
email: hello at easehealingretreats.com
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
With the unfortunate and completely unnecessary "announcements" over the past couple weeks, trying to link Tylenol with autism, scaring mothers and pregnant women, and perhaps worst of all, dragging the stigma of shame and doubt back into families with autism - we need to talk.
And that's what this podcast is for, to be able to respond and react to these kinds of events, and encourage our community to speak out. You are not alone, we do not each live in an island unto ourselves.
I invited Sarah McCorkle (Episodes 6, 7 & 8) to join me again, so we could share our reactions and perspectives on how to respond to the so-called "directives."
Our health care is far, far too politicized - is there anything these days that isn't? And it's having real, distressing impact on our every day lives. Again, something just completely unnecessary.
Why are we so quick to abandon science and reason for some supposed short-term political gain?
We need to emphasize critical thinking, community involvement, and the value of lived experiences in advocacy.
Do you ever feel that these politicians are just treating all this as a game? Do they not understand the real impacts of their actions? Do they just not care?
We can have a better society, one of compassion and humanity, and I know that authentic conversations are a big step to building one.
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Christina on Instagram (@lobolita78)
Christina's column, "Single Mamas Seen"
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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.
You can reach her via Instagram @courageous_whisper
and LinkedIn.
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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.
You can reach her via Instagram @courageous_whisper
and LinkedIn.
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
The College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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." - Ed Roe.
Further links and research related to this episode:
The College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
The College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
The College Internship Program (CIP) in Bloomington, Indiana
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
The Awesome Stuff (www.theawesomestuff.com)
Facebook (@OnlyBuyTheAwesomeStuff)
David's Awesome Stuff playlist on Spotify
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website -
https://stinsonelderlaw.com/
Email -
Address -
650 East Carmel Drive, Suite 230,Carmel, IN 46032
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website -
Email -
Address -
650 East Carmel Drive, Suite 230,
Carmel, IN 46032
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
Noble is a landmark organization and support system in central and eastern Indiana, dedicated to expanding opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families through individualized services.
Molly Lang is Director of Therapy Services, and joins me today to talk about how Noble has grown and evolved over the past 70 years. Originally started as a school, they now have several branches that provide services for adults with IDD. Some of their branches offer services to children, and Noble also provide autism services like ABA.
Noble started by a group of parents coming together to form a school in the 1950s, when their children were otherwise excluded from school, and these parents believed that their children could learn. It has evolved into programs such as early intervention, summer camps, music therapy, and employment services.
Of course, we are at a crucial juncture at this moment in time, and Molly provides insights into funding through Medicaid waivers, advocacy training, support networks for families, and practical steps for families seeking resources and services for children with disabilities.
Noble has long been dedicated to not just improving quality of life for people with disabilities and their families, but to the importance of community integration, so that we can all live and thrive together. Because the more we stay in our own silos, the less understanding, appreciation and joy we will get from others in this diverse society.
How to reach Molly Lang and Noble:
Website - www.mynoblelife.org/
Email - m.lang@mynoblelife.org
on YouTube
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website We Rock the Spectrum: Kids Gym for all Kids - Carmel, IN
on Facebook
on TikTok
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
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:
Website We Rock the Spectrum: Kids Gym for all Kids - Carmel, IN
on Facebook
on Instagram
on TikTok
Contact Tabitha:
staringdownthestorm@gmail.com