On today’s episode of The KIND Families Podcast, I am excited to welcome Kerri Jeter, a ministry leader, miliary veteran, KIND mom, and Area Director for Joni and Friends Arizona. Hear Kerri’s inspirational story, and learn how she leads Joni and Friends in Arizona as the organization makes the world a better place for KIND Families. Learn more about Joni and Friends at https://joniandfriends.org/arizona Follow Kerri Jeter on LinkedIn, or on Instagram at @kerri.jeter. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback and ebook. Order HERE or contact me for discounts on bulk orders. Are you in a book club or part of a KIND caregiver support group? Contact me HERE to receive a FREE five session group study guide! If you host a group of six or more, your book is FREE! Connect with Kari on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn: @kariabaker Visit www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe to receive blogs and updates HERE!    

Next week we are celebrating the one year birthday of my book, Finding KIND! I can’t believe it’s been a year since releasing this piece of my family into the wild, but it has been worth every second. My favorite part is hearing from KIND mamas who tell me the book makes them feel seen, and not alone. Since I love birthdays and celebrating, I thought I would give YOU a special gift! For those of you who are regular listeners of The KIND Families Podcast, you know I ask the same question to all my guests at the end of the episode: What is one random act of kindness you’ve experienced in your life – something completely unexpected but very much appreciated! Every response has been uplifting, inspiring, and humbling. Who knew there were so many guardian angels out there?? Well, this week in honor of Finding KIND, we are going to help you find some kind. We are going to do a top five countdown of the best random acts of kindness responses! Narrowing these clips down to only five was so hard folks. In a world that makes it increasingly difficult to find good news, I want you to take in these stories and think about these people who went above and beyond to help someone else – sometimes even a complete stranger! I want you to hear the miracle of God’s intervention, and I want you to be on the lookout for ways you can be that person to someone else. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback and ebook. Order HERE or contact me for discounts on bulk orders. Are you in a book club or part of a KIND caregiver support group? Contact me HERE to receive a FREE five session group study guide! If you host a group of six or more, your book is FREE! Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe to receive blogs and updates HERE!  

As the mom of a fourteen-year-old boy with autism and ADHD, I love meeting adults who are neurodiverse who are living their dreams and making the world a better place at the same time. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to my guests today, Shane Campfield and Edward Couture, founders of HURDLE.   HURDLE is a Unique Abilities advocacy group which provides motivation and inspiration through public speaking at conferences, organizations and programs. They also have a YouTube show called Spectrum of Hurdles, and I was honored to be one of their guests!   Shane is a passionate, energetic young leader with a positive outlook who has been an autism advocate for many years. He's overcome many obstacles in life, including losing both parents at a very early age. In addition to his role with HURDLE, he loves music and is currently a DJ in Florida, as well as a photographer.   Ed is a 56-year-old autism advocate whose life’s passion is to help people with disabilities. Diagnosed with autism as an adult, he's overcome a great deal in his life as well, including 3 years of homelessness, numerous strokes, and heart issues. He has had many unique jobs he is proud of, including casino dealer, and professional wrestler.   Today Shane, Ed and I discuss how they were able to survive the hardest seasons in their lives, how those seasons produced the fruit of encouragement, and how faith played a role for them both. They have important advice for both kids and adults who face challenges, and you will not want to miss the final question about a random act of kindness – this one literally left me speechless!   Make sure you check out Shane and Ed’s YouTube Show, Spectrum of Hurdles HERE and you can check out my interview HERE. Also follow Hurdle on Instagram @leapoverhurdles, and Facebook @Hurdle.   Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback and ebook. Order HERE or contact me for discounts on bulk orders. Are you in a book club or part of a KIND caregiver support group? Contact me HERE to receive a FREE five session group study guide! If you host a group of six or more, your book is FREE! Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe to receive blogs and updates HERE!  

My guest today is Joshua Neumann, founder of KiND Lips, a lip balm company like no other you’ve ever seen. You know I love all things KIND, but Josh takes his commitment to KINDness to the next level with his mission driven focus to create a world without bullying. After a highly successful career as one of Minnesota's top real estate agents, Josh felt pulled away from the industry he used to love. Inspired by a serendipitous moment and a vivid dream of his mother’s, Josh turned his faith and vision into a company dedicated to making the world a better place. First, he created a premium product with all natural, non-toxic ingredients. Then he dedicated 20% of profits to Kind Lips in the Classroom, a nonprofit program teaching children to make kindness a habit, with the lip balm being a tangible reminder that what comes out of their lips is just as important as what goes on their lips.   Josh and I discuss how he started the business, the science and impact of the eight session educational program he developed, and how his faith guides him in his efforts to eradicate bullying. I hope as soon as you’re done listening you head over to https://kindlips.com and forward the link to your school. As the mom of a KIND kid who has experienced bullying, I can’t think of anything more important. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback and ebook. Order HERE or contact me for discounts on bulk orders. Are you in a book club or part of a KIND caregiver support group? Contact me HERE to receive a FREE five session group study guide! If you host a group of six or more, your book is FREE! Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe to receive blogs and updates HERE!    

Hopefully you are settling back into a routine after a long summer, so I thought we could kick off Season 3 with a discussion about JOY! Now I’m not just talking about the joy of a few precious kid-free hours to get things done now that school is back in session. I’m talking about true, deep Biblical joy. As KIND caregivers, I know sometimes joy can be elusive. But today’s guest is going to explain why we were made for joy, and that all the emerging research coming out of the field of neuroscience is simply a confirmation of the beautiful design God intended when He created us in his image. I am so excited to introduce you to Lindsey Werner, a licensed family counselor and founder of Relational Equipping, a coaching practice for individuals, families, and organizations. For over fifteen years, Lindsey has been integrating neuroscience, spiritual formation and relational intelligence to help clients build leadership skills and find sustainable joy. Lindsey is also the author of a video and workbook-based Bible study called Made for Joy, which weaves neuroscience together with Scripture to help us better understand our own reactions and responses, and in turn build better relationships with God and others. Today we dive into themes such as grief and suffering, the fight or flight reflex, recognizing your body’s messaging system, and how to redirect neuropathways to produce more joy. In Lindsey’s words, this isn’t a “buck up buttercup” solution, but a Biblically based support system hard wired in our bodies. You can access all the video sessions of Lindsey’s Made for Joy Bible study HERE, and the workbook is available on Amazon HERE. However, as a special offer just for KIND listeners, Lindsey has graciously offered to open up the last session of the study titled “Writing Your Joy Story” for FREE to the first 25 people who sign up! This session is a hands-on coaching process to help you reshape your life into a story of joy! Click here to register: Writing Your Joy Story Learn more about Lindsey on her website, https://relationalequipping.com and you can follow her on Instagram at @relationalequipping and on LinkedIn at @Lindsey Werner Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on Amazon in paperback, hardback and ebook. Order HERE or contact me for discounts on bulk orders. Are you in a book club or part of a KIND caregiver support group? Contact me HERE to receive a FREE five session group study guide! If you host a group of six or more, your book is FREE! Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe to receive blogs and updates HERE!  

Today’s guest is a woman I can relate to on so many levels! We are both refugees from the corporate jungle, we both have sons on the spectrum, and we have both taken the lessons we learned in our parenting journey and committed to helping other moms find faith, community, and purpose. Candace Nassar is the founder of MomQ, an organization whose mission it is to empower and equip moms by creating authentic community so that they can find their God-given purpose and build strong faith-filled families. If you’re wondering what the “Q” stands for, you’ll have to listen in. In our conversation we talk about Candace’s own KIND journey with her youngest son. After multiple diagnoses over the course of his childhood, he was finally diagnosed with autism as a young adult. She tells us about struggles with behavior, schools, medications, and more, but ultimately her story is one of God’s protection and provision, and a reflection of how life’s biggest challenges often lead us directly into our purpose. Whether today’s episode comforts you, or maybe even inspires you to start a MomQ chapter of your own, I know you will be blessed by Candace’s wisdom and compassion. Learn more about MomQ on their website, https://momq.org/, listen to the MomQ podcast wherever you find your podcasts, and follow MomQ on Instagram at @MomQ512 and Facebook @MomQ Christian Mom Community. If you have specific questions, email info@momq.org. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now! Visit Amazon to purchase a hard cover, paperback, or ebook by clicking HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Also, ask about the new Group Study Guide for Finding KIND!  Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

I grew up playing team sports, so I remember how good coaches helped me rise to my potential, build skills, break out of ruts, and sometimes, just get out of my own head. I realize now, that when I became a KIND mom, I needed a coach for those very same reasons.  Maybe you do too. If so, today’s guest, Kara Ryska, may be just the resource you are looking for. Kara is a devoted mother of four, ranging in ages from 7 to 17. Kara's son Levi is the survivor of multiple brain tumors, and is a child with diverse disabilities, encompassing physical, visual, behavioral, and medical challenges. Driven by her personal experiences, Kara has become an advocate for families facing similar hurdles, offering support as a life coach and through her role as the host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast. She created the "Pathway to Peace," a transformative group coaching community that has touched and changed countless lives. She also offers one-on-one coaching, and her resilience and wisdom make her a sought-after speaker. Today Kara shares her difficult backstory, which is evidence of just how resilient she is. But as we find so often, the painful circumstances of Kara’s life led her to understand her purpose. She emerged from a state of surviving to a place of thriving and is helping KIND parents just like you do the same. We discuss the difference between coaching and therapy, the myth that doing more is the solution, and the importance of community in the healing process. Follow Kara on Instagram at @thespecialneedsmompodcast, listen to The Special Needs Mom Podcast wherever you find your podcasts, and visit her website https://kararyska.com for more information on her group and individual coaching services. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now! Visit Amazon to purchase a hard cover, paperback, or ebook by clicking HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Also, ask about the new Group Study Guide for Finding KIND!  Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

As we approach the end of Autism Awareness/Acceptance month, I am honored to bring you a conversation with one of the true heroes of the autism community. When I took that quiz in 2014 which awakened me to the truth of Brady’s autism, it was the organization Denise co-founded, the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, which provided the screener. After her two-year old son Matt was diagnosed with autism, Denise was told to “love, accept, and plan to institutionalize” him. She refused to accept that kind of future for Matt, and so began her lifelong advocacy for those on the spectrum. She was inspired to start SARRC in 1997 with another mother and their developmental pediatrician, to “provide better answers and more reliable, comprehensive support for families impacted by autism.” That organization has grown to provide community schools, skills training, and other supports for those with autism at any age. Denise’s vision for SARRC went far beyond the needs of parents immediately after a diagnosis. She envisioned a life-long model of support, inclusion, and dignity for everyone on the spectrum. In 2012, she formed a sister non-profit, First Place AZ, which is an independent-living, residential real estate project for those with autism and other neurodiversity. In addition to residential locations, and a civic movement called Vote the Spectrum, the Denise founded the Global Leadership Institute, which provides research, public policy recommendations, and indepence-enabling ideas to governments, employers, educational institutions and medical professionals. If you are in Phoenix and get a chance to visit First Place AZ, I highly recommend it. I know Denise’s passion will inspire you, and bring you so much hope for the future of those with autism. So without further ado, let’s jump in to today’s KIND word. Learn more about First Place AZ at https://firstplaceaz.org/, and the Global Leadership Institute at https://firstplaceglobal.org/ Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now in hard cover, paperback, and ebook! Visit Amazon to purchase your copies HERE, and don’t forget to leave a review when you’re done!  Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

We continue Autism Awareness/Acceptance month with a fascinating discussion with Taiba Bajar, founder of Autism Brain Empowerment, and author of the book, Unlock Autism. Taiba, who is autistic herself, is another mom who would not accept the dire prognosis for her son, who experienced rapid and dramatic regression in skills at 18 months old. She refused to believe his autism was simply genetic and set out on a quest to find the most effective ways to treat her son, even as the medical community encouraged her to accept his limitations. As a medically trained dentist and award-winning researcher, she performed a deep dive literature review to find common links between autism symptoms and other facets of life including environment, brain development, gut health, and more. The result is a seven-step process of interventions which she has turned into a book and a coaching program for parents. Her ultimate goal is to help autistic children meet their developmental milestones and thrive. This conversation is especially interesting for me, since our family has been experimenting with some of the strategies Taiba recommends, specifically related to diet and toxins.  You can contact Taiba through her website, autismbrainempowerment.com or follow her on the platforms below: Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok: @autismbrainempowerment LinkedIn: Taiba Bajar YouTube: youtube.com/@AutismBrainEmpowerment You can also purchase her book, Unlock Autism, on Amazon HERE. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now in hard cover, paperback, and ebook! Visit Amazon to purchase your copies HERE, and don’t forget to leave a review when you’re done! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

This episode is launching on April Fools Day, but I promise this is not a prank! Today, I welcome back my first ever repeat guest, and also my favorite guest, my son Brady, as we kick off Autism Awareness/Acceptance Month.  We are thankful for the opportunity to help others better understand autism, and to recognize the super powers and gifts autistic people bring to the world. Brady and I discuss our favorite pranks, his thoughts on what others need to know about autism, and we finish with a sneak peak of Brady's latest film project. You won't want to miss this one! Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now in hard cover, paperback, and ebook. Visit Amazon to purchase the book HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. If you've already read Finding KIND, it would be so helpful if you would head over to Amazon to write a review.  It just takes a minute and no purchase is necessary! Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

As the parent of an autistic child, one of the most affirming experiences you can have is meeting an autistic adult who has overcome many of the challenges your child currently faces, and is thriving personally, professionally and spiritually. Today’s guest is all that and more and is a KIND mama herself to three autistic children. Ann Kagarise is a prolific author, podcaster, speaker, journalist, and photographer, just to name a few of her professional endeavors. She is the co-host of "Real Talk with Tina and Ann," where they explore mental health topics and overcoming challenges. After being told as a child that she would likely not graduate from high school, Ann completed degrees in mental health, and later earned a master’s in divinity.  She has dedicated herself to sharing stories that inspire and uplift. In our conversation we talk about Ann’s amazing journey from a child diagnosed with learning disabilities, to an accomplished, faith driven, multi-faceted autistic mom who doesn’t accept “can’t” as an option. You can learn more about Ann on her website, www.annkagarise.com, and be sure to listen to “Real Talk with Tina and Ann” on your favorite podcast channel or YouTube. www.realtalktinaann.com Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

Today’s episode came to be through God’s sweet hand and just a bit of stalking. I found Larah Roberts (like Sarah but with an L) through her Instagram page Raising Autistic Disciples last year and messaged her right away when I heard she had a book coming out called How to Advocate and Stay Christian, which she wrote with her husband Collin. Larah and her husband are lifelong followers of Jesus, but just like many of us, their world was rocked when they received an autism diagnosis for their middle son, Graham. Along with many questions most parents ask in that moment, like, “Will my child go to high school or college? Will my child ever get married or live on his own?” or even more in the moment, “Will my child ever be potty trained?” Larah and Collin discovered the biggest and most important question was “Will my son ever know Jesus?” Unwilling to accept the prevailing opinions that Graham would never be able to understand and grasp a strong faith, Larah and Collin set out to prove to families that God does not create an image bearer without the ability to reach his or her heart. In a very short time, the Roberts have gathered a huge Instagram following for Raising Autistic Disciples, and have built on their leadership in the Christian autism community with their book How to Advocate and Stay Christian. Larah is also the operations director for Key Ministries, the organization behind the huge national conference, Disability and the Church. She and Collin live with Graham and their two other beautiful children in North Carolina. One note about this episode. Most of you know how important my faith is in my life, and this episode is an open discussion about the impact of Larah’s and my faith in our KIND journey. If you walk a different path, please don’t let that stop you from hearing the wisdom you can draw from Larah and her experiences. We all need strength to draw from in challenging circumstances. I hope wherever you are, you are not relying solely on your own resources. Your child has purpose and promise in this life, and so do you. Follow Larah at @raisingautisticdisciples, listen to the Raising Autistic Disciples Podcast wherever you find your podcasts, and pick up her book How to Advocate and Stay Christian HERE. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

Today’s guest Janeen Herskovitz is an autism mom, a licensed psychotherapist, an autism strategist, and the host of the long-running podcast, The Autism Blueprint. As often happens when I meet heroes in the KIND community, Janeen and I bonded quickly. Like me, she struggled with her son’s autism diagnosis at age three. But eventually, Janeen took the lessons she learned and decided to embark on a new career focused on providing the kind of help she wished she had access to when she was starting her journey. She went back to school, while raising two teenagers no less, got her masters in Mental Health Counseling, and subsequently founded Puzzle Peace Counseling. That’s p-e-a-c-e for those listening and not reading. Janeen also started The Autism Blueprint podcast in 2016 so she could provide more free resources to families impacted by autism, and loves working with parents and neurodivergent children. Janeen and I talk about the proven therapeutic impact of community, the progression of the autism conversation over the years, and never underestimating our KIND kiddos. You will love Janeen’s perspective so without further ado, let’s jump in to today’s KIND word. Visit www.puzzlepeacecounseling.com and www.autismblueprint.com for more information, and follow Janeen on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autismblueprint. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

At Brady’s two year well check appointment, I vividly remember the pediatrician telling me that because he walked and talked on time, autism was off the table. Brady was verbal, and in fact had a surprising vocabulary at the time, so the idea that he had speech delays never crossed my mind. When he was finally diagnosed with autism a year and a half later, I realized that while he had words, he was severely delayed in many facets of speech and language. Today’s guest, Dinalynn Rosenbush, has spent the last 30 years as a school Speech Language Pathologist, helping families like ours to understand how to help our children communicate better so they can connect with others. In addition to her daily practice, Dinalynn is also a Consultant and Parenting Coach, Speaker, international best-selling Author, and she is the Creator and Host of the podcast: The Language of Play, which is in the 1.5% of podcasts in the world. If you have concerns about your child’s ability to listen, read, and communicate, Dinalynn will provide you with practical tips for recognizing a problem and understanding that behaviors are often the result of a child’s very real inability to process and respond to others’ words. We discuss the importance of play in the learning process, and how parents can feel more confident as advocates for their children in a school setting. Whether or not you are struggling with speech issues in your life, I know Dinalynn’s upbeat approach and positive message will resonate with you. If you would like to contact Dinalynn, simply email her at hello@thelanguageofplay.com. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

Today’s guest checks ALL the boxes for a fantastic first episode for our second season, even some boxes that didn’t exist last season. Dr. Lauren Megrew is a friend I met several years ago when my son Brady attended a school for kids with learning differences in second grade. Her daughter was in Brady’s class, and they hit it off.  Her credentials were impressive enough – she holds a Ph.D. as an industrial and organizational psychologist, she is a licensed clinical therapist, and an international speaker with a specialization in the understanding and support of neurodiversity.  What I didn’t realize when I first met Lauren, is that she herself, is neurodiverse, diagnosed with autism and ADHD as an adult. In fact, her whole family is what she describes as neurospicy. In addition to helping individual clients, Dr. Megrew assists organizations in understanding and proactively supporting their neurodivergent talent by redefining neurodiversity through a strengths-based perspective. She provides guidance to neurodiverse individuals on self-advocacy and educates organizations on the development of neuro-inclusive environments, employee resource groups, and effective management techniques. Dr. Megrew is also a certified equine therapist and equine-assisted learning facilitator dedicated to creating innovative models tailored to the neurodiverse population.  This conversation will inspire and empower you, and just may be the first step in changing the world to be more KIND. You can reach Lauren on her website, https://www.laurenmegrew.com/, or email her at hello@laurenmegrew.com. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

One of the unexpected gifts I’ve received since starting The KIND Families Podcast is getting to meet so many heroes of the KIND community. People who are champions for those with neurological differences or any other special needs and who serve selflessly and passionately to make life better for everyone. Today I speak with one of those champions, Justin Garrard. Justin is the Executive Director of Adam’s Camp, a therapy based summer camp program in Colorado for children and adults with any kind of difference or disability. Adam’s Camp began nearly four decades ago by a mother who would not accept what the doctors and so-called experts told her was possible for her son with cerebral palsy. Last year Adam’s Camp touched the lives of 550 individuals and their families, and they are looking to expand further. Justin’s passion for the special needs community stems from his personal experiences growing up with his older brother John, who is on the Autism Spectrum. This firsthand exposure to the challenges faced by families, coupled with a strong desire to effect positive change, has driven Justin to dedicate himself to serving individuals with special needs. Justin has a passion for helping those around him realize their dreams through life-changing opportunities. He has his Bachelors and MBA from Ottawa University, where he was also an All-American distance runner.  Fun fact – he was recently inducted into the college’s Athletic Hall of Fame, but I think his real Hall of Fame performance is what he does every day for the KIND and special needs Communities.   You might want to grab some Kleenex as we jump into today’s KIND word with Justin Garrard.   Learn more about Adam’s Camp or find ways to support the organization by visiting www.adamscamp.org.   Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!  

Welcome to our first Thanksgiving Throwback episode!  If you are already chopping your vegetables or mashing your potatoes in anticipation of the biggest meal of the year, this throwback episode will put a little pep in your prep. Today we are taking a trip back to our very first guest, so our newest friends can hear the wit and wisdom of one of my favorite love do-ers, and chief balloon carriers, Bob Goff. In addition to writing numerous New York Times bestsellers, Bob is a speaker, coach, podcaster, and the founder of Love Does, a human rights organization helping kids around the world find safe places to live and learn. Bob was one of my writing coaches, along with the spectacular Kim Stuart, and he is also the inspiration for this podcast. Bob and I talk about some of the challenges KIND families face, how to be available, dealing with negativity, and more. For those of you who are veterans of The KIND Families Podcast, you will LOVE Bob’s response to the final question I ask all my guests: “Describe one random act of KINDness.” Bob’s is a doozy! While Bob plugs preordering my book, Finding KIND, during our conversation, I want you to know that the book is out in the world NOW, and I’d love you to pick up a copy HERE. I also want to let you know that Bob has a new book coming out in December called Catching Whimsy! I’m honored to be part of his launch team, so here is a link to preorder the book: Catching Whimsy You can find Bob at www.bobgoff.com, or on socials @bobgoff.   Also check out Love Does at www.lovedoes.org. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose while Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now! Visit www.findingkind.myshopify.com to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, you find it on Amazon HERE. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!

Laurie Christine is an author, the host of the podcast Redeeming the Chaos, a certified Biblical Parenting Coach, a wife, and a mom of four boys she describes as wild, loud and adventurous, which explains the name of her podcast! She also writes biblical fiction and devotions for preteen readers. Her passion is to raise strong, courageous warriors for the Kingdom of God, and to help families like yours do the same!    With degrees in Creative Writing, Biblical Studies and Education, Laurie has more than twenty years of experience teaching the Bible to children and teens, as well as writing Sunday School curriculum for her local church.    What you might not know from her resume is that she is also a KIND mom. Today we talk about her KIND journey, and how she navigated the diagnosis with her son and his brothers. We also get to chat about her latest book, Garden of Mysteries, and its companion devotional which is available for purchase on her website https://lauriechristine.com/.   Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available now! Visit www.findingkind.myshopify.com to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!

I remember when my husband and I started our KIND journey over ten years ago. We were desperate for information, connection, and trusted guidance. We went to the library, searched online, and sat through hours of parenting classes. I would take direction and referrals from other moms I’d never met before in waiting rooms, and all the while I wished there was a quarterback for our KIND experience. A concierge if you will, to direct us in the best way to help our son. Gilda Evans’ youngest son was diagnosed with autism at age three over two decades ago. She describes that experience as being in the middle of the ocean with no land in sight and no idea which way to swim. I can relate, and I’m sure you can too. But Gilda decided to do something about it. Her professional background in media and entertainment provided a foundation for her to create the wildly successful podcast, The Autism Resource Podcast. But even still, she wanted to do more. So, earlier this year, she launched the Autism Resource Project, a nonprofit online service that will be a repository for information, research, provider connections, and much more. Her vision is for ARP to be a central, global, 24/7 knowledge hub, bringing together access to supports and services currently scattered in the maze of the web. Her mission is to give neurodivergent and disabled individuals, and those who support them, access to answers from trusted professionals. Please check out the ARP website HERE. You can also listen to the Autism Resource Project Podcast by clicking HERE or by searching your favorite podcast platform. Have you picked up a copy of my book yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!    

Today’s guest is the most special EVER to be heard on this podcast or frankly any podcast on the planet, although you may consider me biased. As we approach the launch date of my book, Finding KIND, I thought you might want to hear directly from the inspiration, the main character, the hero of the book, my son, Brady Baker. Brady is a handsome, smart, funny, creative 13-year-old in 8th grade, and he is also the author of the foreword to Finding KIND. When Brady was three, he was diagnosed with autism. Later we added ADHD and some other acronyms to his neurological soup. So, his brain works a little differently than typically developing kids. He receives and processes information in a unique way and reacts and responds accordingly. When we first received the diagnosis of autism, I will be honest, I was devastated. I didn’t know anything about autism, I didn’t know anyone with autism. I couldn’t even fathom what life would look like a decade later.  Maybe some of you listening are in the same boat, or you love someone who is. I wrote Finding KIND for you. I want you know you are not alone, and I want to help you move out of your grief into a place of acceptance and joy. I hope my conversation with Brady gives you the hope of what can be for your child and for you! Never underestimate them, never give up on them, never stop fighting for them, and never doubt that your child was made on purpose, for a purpose and God doesn’t make mistakes. Brady’s neurodiversity does not define him, but it is woven into his very being. He has passions, dreams, skills, talents, and personality galore which you can’t miss when you hear him speak.  AND he wrote the foreword to my new book, Finding KIND – how cool is that? Speaking of the book, have you picked up a copy yet?  Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose While Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences is available on October 22nd! Visit Finding KIND to get your hardback copy today, or, if you prefer ebooks, head over to Amazon and purchase HERE! Want a free preview of the book before you buy? Click HERE and I will send you a pdf of the foreword, (written by my amazing son, Brady!), the introduction and the first chapter. Connect with Kari on Instagram @kariabaker Connect with Kari on Facebook @kariabaker Connect with Kari on LinkedIn @kariabaker Visit www.kariabaker.com and www.kindfamilies.com for more content! Subscribe HERE!