In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, hosts Lisa and Nikki reunite with Sam Tomlinson, father of Connor Tomlinson, to discuss the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of raising a child with autism, and the impact of their experiences on family dynamics. Sam shares his background, the challenges faced during Connor's diagnosis, and the lessons learned through parenting. The conversation also touches on the effects of divorce on family life and the importance of maintaining a positive environment for children. They reflect on the success of the show 'Love on the Spectrum' and its role in raising awareness about autism.
Guest:
Sam Tomlinson
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: @nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: @nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: @connorsmom4514
Instagram: @connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
WARNING: This video contains strong language!
In this episode, Ashley Caron shares her journey as a mother of a child with autism, discussing the challenges and triumphs of parenting a non-speaking child. She emphasizes the importance of fitness as a mental health outlet, the need for early intervention, and the significance of finding joy in small moments. Ashley also highlights the complexities of understanding her son's behavior and the necessity of presuming competence in children with autism. The conversation delves into the realities of navigating therapies and support systems, providing insights for other parents in similar situations. In this conversation, Ashley Caron and Talk To Me Sis discuss the multifaceted challenges of parenting a child with autism, emphasizing the importance of community support, empowerment, and the emotional toll on families. They share personal anecdotes about navigating therapy, the impact on siblings, and the necessity of finding humor and connection through social media. The discussion highlights the need for understanding and empathy from society, as well as the bureaucratic hurdles faced by families. Ultimately, they stress the importance of acceptance, growth, and the power of shared experiences in the autism community.
Guest:
Ashley Caron
TikTok: @getburly
Instagram: @mrs.getburly
Facebook: getburly21
Host:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: @nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: @nicci_smith6
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, the hosts reconnect after a brief hiatus, sharing personal updates and reflections on family life, particularly the joys and challenges of parenting neurodivergent children. They discuss the impact of the show 'Love on the Spectrum' on their lives and the community, highlighting the importance of representation and understanding. The conversation also touches on insights from recent guests, listener feedback, and the evolving landscape of parenting strategies. The hosts emphasize the value of real talk and community support in navigating the complexities of raising children with diverse needs.
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, Andrea shares her journey as a mother of Trent, who has autism. The conversation explores Andrea's background, family dynamics, and the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs. They discuss the importance of communication, sibling relationships, and the resources available for families. Andrea emphasizes the need for support and community, as well as the ongoing journey of understanding and advocating for Trent's needs. The episode concludes with reflections on the future and the possibilities of communication through spelling.
Guest:
Andrea Landreth
Youtube: Drawings By Trent
Facebook: Drawings By Trent
TikTok: @drawingsbytrent
Instagram: @drawingsbytrent
Used Up Pens Podcast
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Sponsored by MerchLabs (merchlabs.com)
** Mild Language Warning **
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, host discusses the journey of Nikki Tomczak, an autism mom, and her daughter Olivia. Nikki shares her experiences navigating the complexities of autism, including the medical challenges they faced, the importance of finding the right support, and the impact of underlying medical conditions on behavior. The conversation emphasizes the significance of communication, the long-term management of autism, and the value of sharing personal stories to empower and educate others in the autism community. In this conversation, Nikki Tomczak shares her journey as a mother navigating the complexities of raising a child with autism and the medical challenges that accompany it. She discusses the importance of individualized care, the emotional toll of parenting, and the necessity of self-care for caregivers. Nikki also recounts her personal health crisis, a heart attack, and how it impacted her perspective on life and parenting. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience, trust in one's instincts, and the importance of seeking appropriate medical care for children with special needs.
Guest:
TikTok: martyandnikki
Youtube: MartyandNikki
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, Betsy Hicks Russ shares her journey as a mother of a nonverbal autistic son, Joey, and discusses the transformative experience of discovering spelling as a means of communication. Betsy emphasizes the importance of presuming competence in non-speaking individuals and highlights the need for inclusivity within the autism community. She also introduces her Be Kind Vest initiative, aimed at fostering understanding and compassion in public spaces. The conversation touches on the challenges and triumphs of parenting an autistic child, the significance of community support, and the exciting developments in autism awareness and advocacy.
Guest:
Betsy Hicks Russ
Instagram: betsyonthego
YouTube: Betsy on the Go
Podcast: Autism Odyssey
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, the hosts welcome Rachel York, a certified Enneagram coach, to discuss the Enneagram personality typing system. They explore the significance of understanding oneself and one's partner through the lens of the Enneagram, emphasizing its relevance in relationships, parenting, and personal growth. Rachel provides insights into the nine Enneagram types, their motivations, fears, and how they can impact interactions in various settings, including family and professional environments. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and communication in fostering healthy relationships and personal development.
Guest:
Instagram: letstypeaboutit
and letstypeaboutit podcast
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, the hosts explore the intersection of technology and personal experiences, particularly focusing on the impact of autonomous vehicles on daily life. They share personal stories about family adventures, the growth and development of children with autism, and the challenges they face in social situations. The conversation highlights the importance of technology in enhancing life experiences and the joy of witnessing personal growth in their children.
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, Vernon Jackson shares his journey from a reluctant leader to a passionate advocate for children, particularly those with special needs. He discusses the creation of the Gifted Event, a free haircare program designed to provide a safe and loving environment for children during haircuts. Vernon emphasizes the importance of patience, understanding, and emotional connection in caregiving, and how his experiences have shaped his approach to working with children. He inspires others in the community to pursue careers in barbering and working with special needs children, highlighting the transformative power of love and connection. In this engaging conversation, Vernon Jackson and Talk To Me Sis explore the complexities of parenting, particularly in relation to children with special needs. They discuss the importance of emotional authenticity, understanding child behavior, and the balance between being proactive and reactive in parenting. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of setting expectations, empowering children through boundaries, and celebrating their achievements. Vernon shares his aspirations for community engagement and raising awareness about acceptance for children on the spectrum, highlighting the need for support and understanding from society.
Guest:
Vernon Jackson
TikTok: thegiftedeventoff
Instagram: thebest1period
YouTube: thegiftedeventofficial
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, Lawrence Jones shares his journey as a father to James from Love on the Spectrum. He discusses his upbringing, the challenges of parenting, and the importance of patience and commitment in family life. Lawrence emphasizes the role of his wife, June, in supporting James and navigating their parenting journey together. He offers advice to new dads, reflects on the impact of the show Love on the Spectrum on their family, and shares insights on maintaining a strong marriage. The conversation highlights the importance of love, support, and understanding in raising a neurodiverse child.
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
Host Nikki speaks with Esme Kim, the mother of Pari from Love on the Spectrum. They discuss Esme's life before motherhood, the early signs of autism in her daughters, and the challenges and triumphs of parenting two children on the spectrum. Esme shares her experiences with therapy, advocacy in schools, and the importance of support systems, while also addressing the emotional toll of isolation and the unique sibling dynamics between her daughters. In this conversation, Esme shares her journey as a mother of two daughters on the autism spectrum, discussing the unique challenges and joys they faced together. She reflects on their shared experiences, the importance of sibling relationships, and the impact of therapy and support systems. Esme also opens up about personal hardships, including the loss of her husband and her battle with cancer, while emphasizing the resilience of her daughters. The discussion highlights the significance of finding joy and independence in the face of adversity, as well as the importance of community and support for families navigating similar journeys.
Guest:
Esme Kim
Pari's socials:
TikTok: purpleprincesspari
Instagram: purpleprincesspari
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, David's mom Debbie Isaacman shares her journey from working in the Secret Service to becoming a mother of triplets, one of whom is on the autism spectrum. She discusses the early signs of autism in her son David, the importance of early intervention through ABA therapy, and the role of his sisters in his development. Debbie reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating public education, the significance of family support, and David's journey to independence and employment. The conversation highlights the importance of acceptance, positivity, and the joy of seeing children thrive.
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, Nicci and Lise reconnect, sharing personal updates about their families and the challenges of balancing busy lives. They celebrate small victories in their children's growth and discuss the importance of humor in navigating life's complexities. The conversation also highlights the growth of their podcast, their commitment to improving production quality, and their plans for future episodes that engage with the autism community.
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom
Instagram: nicci_smith6
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514
Instagram: connorsmom_lise
YouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114
Sponsored by MerchLabs
Summary
In this episode, Jenny Marilla shares her journey as the mother of Madison, a cast member from 'Love on the Spectrum.' She discusses Madison's early signs of autism, the importance of early intervention, and the various therapies that have helped her daughter thrive. Jenny emphasizes the significance of dietary changes, building relationships with therapists, and the challenges of navigating the school system. The conversation also touches on Madison's sensory issues and how she has found creative outlets to cope with them, showcasing the unique journey of parenting a child with autism. In this conversation, Jenny Marilla shares her experiences raising her daughter Madison, who is on the autism spectrum. The discussion covers various themes including sensory needs, communication strategies, the role of aides in development, and the importance of advocacy and community engagement. Jenny reflects on Madison's journey through school, her high school experiences, and the impact of autism awareness on her social interactions. The conversation also highlights Madison's achievements, including her graduation, her involvement in relationships, and her new jewelry business. The episode emphasizes the importance of understanding, support, and open communication in navigating the challenges and triumphs of life on the spectrum.
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, Christine Romeo, mother of Abby from Love on the Spectrum, shares her life journey, from her adventurous youth to the challenges of motherhood and parenting a child with autism. Christine discusses her family dynamics, the impact of mental health, and her philosophy on resilience. She reflects on her career path, the complexities of autism diagnosis, and her thoughts on vaccinations. The conversation highlights the importance of personal growth and understanding in navigating life's challenges. In this conversation, Christine and Talk To Me Sis delve into the complexities of autism, discussing the differences between regressive and non-regressive autism, the spectrum of individual needs, and the various therapies available. They share personal stories of struggle and acceptance, emphasizing the importance of understanding each individual's unique journey. The discussion highlights the challenges caregivers face, the emotional toll of navigating these experiences, and the significance of finding effective communication strategies. Ultimately, the conversation is a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of community support. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of autism, focusing on Gestalt language processing, the need for individualized support, and the importance of rethinking educational approaches for neurodivergent learners. They discuss the challenges of representation in media, the impact of neurodiversity on life trajectories, and the necessity of fostering a positive and understanding community. The conversation emphasizes the importance of meeting individuals where they are and promoting a culture of support and compassion. In this conversation, Christine and Talk To Me Sis delve into the complexities of autism advocacy, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse experiences within the autism community. They discuss the challenges of navigating therapy choices, the need for tailored support, and the significance of sharing stories to inspire and empower parents of children on the spectrum. The dialogue highlights the necessity of creating awareness in workplaces and the importance of advocating for those with higher support needs. Ultimately, the conversation aims to foster a sense of community and understanding among parents and advocates.
Guest:
Christine Romeo
TikTok: abbeysmom17 (https://www.tiktok.com/@abbeysmom17)
Instagram: christineabbeysmom (https://www.instagram.com/christineabbeysmom)
YouTube: Christine-Abbeysmom (https://www.youtube.com/@Christine-Abbeysmom)
Hosts:
Nicci Smith
TikTok: nicci_tannersmom (https://www.tiktok.com/@nicci_tannersmom)
Instagram: nicci_smith6 (https://www.instagram.com/nicci_smith6/?hl=en)
Lise Smith
TikTok: connorsmom4514 (https://www.tiktok.com/@connorsmom4514)
Instagram: connorsmom_lise (https://www.instagram.com/connorsmom_lise)
YouTube: carrideswithconnor4114 (https://www.youtube.com/@carrideswithconnor4114)
Sponsored by MerchLabs (https://merchlabs.com)
***Mild Language Warning***
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, host Talk To Me Sis welcomes June Jones, the mother of James from Love on the Spectrum. The conversation explores June's background, her experiences as a mother, and the challenges she faced in navigating James's early development and diagnosis on the autism spectrum. June shares insights into the educational system, the importance of advocacy, and the dynamics of sibling relationships within their family. The discussion highlights the evolution of understanding autism and the significance of support and love in family life. In this conversation, Lorenzo discusses the dynamics of raising a child on the autism spectrum, focusing on sibling relationships, socialization challenges, and the impact of the show 'Love on the Spectrum' on his son James. The conversation also touches on the challenges of parenting, the importance of community support, and the effects of autism on marriage and family life. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of relationships and family dynamics, particularly focusing on the experiences of raising children on the autism spectrum. They share personal anecdotes about navigating challenges, fostering independence, and the importance of support systems. The discussion highlights the hope and inspiration that can be drawn from shared experiences, emphasizing the need for community and understanding among families. The speakers also offer valuable advice for new parents, encouraging them to be proactive in seeking help and resources for their children.
In this episode, Sandy Vielma shares her journey as a caregiver for her niece Dani, who is on the autism spectrum. Sandy discusses her transition from a regular life to becoming a full-time caregiver, the challenges and triumphs of Dani's early childhood, and the unique approaches they took to support her development. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized care, the role of music in learning, and the impact of the show 'Love on the Spectrum' on Dani's life and relationships. Sandy emphasizes the lessons learned through their experiences and the empowerment that comes from understanding and advocating for autistic individuals. In this engaging conversation, Sandy Vielma shares her experiences navigating the complexities of raising a child on the autism spectrum, particularly focusing on social appropriateness, relationships, and education. The discussion highlights Dani's journey through high school and college, her dating experiences, and the importance of community support among parents of children with autism. Sandy emphasizes the need for unity within the autism community, advocating for hope and understanding across different experiences and challenges faced by families.
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Sponsored by MerchLabs
In this episode, Lise and Nikki connect with their audience by sharing heartfelt messages from listeners, particularly focusing on the experiences of parents and families affected by autism. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of parenting children on the spectrum, and the significance of sharing personal stories. The hosts reflect on their own journeys, the feedback they've received, and their commitment to improving communication in their podcast. They emphasize the need for honesty and vulnerability while navigating the complexities of autism and parenting, ultimately aiming to provide hope and motivation to their listeners.
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, the hosts engage in a heartfelt discussion with two fathers, Mark and Tony, about their experiences raising children with autism. They explore the emotional and financial challenges, the impact on marriages, and the vital role of siblings in supporting their special needs siblings. The conversation also touches on blending families, acceptance, and the proud moments that come with parenting. The dads share their insights and advice for new parents, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and celebrating every achievement along the way.
Summary
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, siblings of individuals with special needs share their unique perspectives on growing up in a family with a special needs sibling. They discuss the challenges, the emotional dynamics, and the lessons learned through their experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and the character-building aspects of their journeys. The siblings reflect on their relationships, the impact of their experiences on their personal growth, and offer advice to other siblings navigating similar situations. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of support systems and the beauty of family bonds.
