Adulting with Autism

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Step into the world of ’Adulting with Autism’ with April Ratchford as your delightful host! Join us for a lighthearted exploration of navigating adulthood through the lens of autism. With a dash of wit and a sprinkle of humor, we’ll tackle the highs and lows, share personal stories, and embrace the unique journey of adulting with autism. This isn’t just a podcast; it’s your go-to companion for laughter, insights, and a touch of whimsy as we navigate the grown-up world together!

April Ratchford MS OT/L

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    • Jun 25, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 37m AVG DURATION
    • 152 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Adulting with Autism

    Acting Tools for Emotional Literacy with James Rojas Taylor, U.S. Marine, Actor, and Author of All Your Best Selves

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2025 31:58


    Send us a textJames Rojas Taylor is a U.S. Marine veteran, actor, and author of All Your Best Selves who believes emotional and mental literacy can be taught—using the tools of the actor. In this episode, we talk about his journey from trauma to transformation, how acting helped him regulate emotion and build empathy, and how his "suits and bubbles" concept became a powerful tool for social navigation, especially for neurodivergent youth.

    Why Neurodiverse Relationships Struggle (And How to Fix Them) | Evan Katz, LCSW

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2025 37:45


    Reframe Your Past, Reclaim Your Power: CBT Tips with Judith Belmont

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 18, 2025 35:03


    Send us a textWhat if your past didn't define you—but refined you?

    Reclaiming Joy After Loss: Stacie Shifflett on Life Transitions, Boundaries & Modern Consciousness

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2025 38:08


    Send us a textCertified high-performance coach Stacie Shifflett joins April Ratchford to talk grief, reinvention, and emotional resilience. From losing her son to rebuilding life after divorce, Stacie shares real tools for navigating trauma, redefining success, and creating joy. For parents of autistic adults and anyone in transition, this is your reminder: you can reinvent your life.

    Rewire Your Mindset: Madelaine Weiss on Success, Sanity & Letting Go of Limiting Beliefs

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2025 32:24


    Send us a textIn this empowering episode of Adulting with Autism, we're joined by Madelaine Weiss—Harvard-trained psychotherapist, mindset master, and author of Getting to G.R.E.A.T.. With decades of experience helping high performers reclaim clarity and calm, Madelaine dives deep into how neurodivergent individuals can stop self-sabotaging, manage stress, and finally thrive—both professionally and personally.Whether you're wrestling with imposter syndrome, emotional overload, or simply want to unlock greater potential, Madelaine shares proven tools and actionable insights to reshape your thought patterns and build a life you love.

    Break Free from Limiting Beliefs: Habit Freedom with Coach Anna Shilina

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 7, 2025 30:47


    Send us a textAre your beliefs holding you back? In this transformative episode of Adulting with Autism, host April Ratchford sits down with international coach, speaker, and human behavior expert Anna Shilina—author of Habit Freedom—to unpack how neurodivergent adults can shift from limitation to liberation.

    Overcoming Self-Sabotage: How Performers Can Reclaim Their Power with Dr. Albert Bramante

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2025 33:57


    Send us a textWhat if you could stop self-sabotaging and start thriving—on stage and off?In this transformative episode of Adulting with Autism, host April Ratchford sits down with Dr. Albert Bramante, a powerhouse talent agent with over 20 years in the entertainment industry and a Ph.D. in Psychology. A certified hypnotist and NLP practitioner, Dr. Bramante shares how actors and creatives can silence imposter syndrome, rewire their thinking, and perform at their peak—even under pressure.You'll learn how to detach from toxic outcomes, build a “happy file” for moments of self-doubt, and redefine success through mindset shifts that matter. Whether you're neurodivergent or navigating the highs and lows of high achievement, this episode is your backstage pass to emotional freedom and lasting confidence.

    Trauma, Truth, and the Path to Healing: Susan Snow on Navigating PTSD

    Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2025 39:05


    Rewriting the Autism Narrative: Clain Udy's Path to Independent Futures

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 39:05


    Send us a textIn this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Clain Udy—corporate leader, autism dad, speaker, and author of Rebranding Autism. Clain shares how a strengths-based approach transformed his own son's path and sparked the creation of First Ascent, a groundbreaking 12-week program helping autistic young adults align their careers with who they really are.

    Unmasking Authenticity: Healing, Identity & Faith with Rev. Jocelyn Jones | Autism, Trauma & Emotional Wellness

    Play Episode Listen Later May 10, 2025 35:39 Transcription Available


    Living With Hyperthymesia: Frank Healy on Healing, Memory, and Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 29:31 Transcription Available


    Hey guys, hey – happy Wednesday! I'm April, your favorite autistic OT and host of Adulting with Autism – the podcast where life skills are sexy, healing is real, and neurodivergent voices finally get the mic. Whether you're a parent guiding your autistic young adult or you're that young adult figuring it out one meltdown and meme at a time, this is your judgment-free zone to laugh, learn, and level up.

    Breaking Free from Fear: Eric Simpson's Journey from Corporate Life to Bold Living

    Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2025 34:44 Transcription Available


    Feeling stuck in fear? You're not alone — and this episode with life coach Eric Simpson will help you break free. After leaving a high-powered corporate job in the U.S., Eric took a leap of faith (literally — he skydives!) and rebuilt his life in the U.K., helping others conquer fear and design bold, fulfilling lives. If you're autistic, ADHD, or neurodivergent, and fear keeps blocking your next step, this episode is your permission slip to dream bigger. We unpack how to reframe fear, shift your mindset, and take bold action—even if the first step feels impossible.

    The Science of Healing: Dr. Robert Melillo on Autism, Brain Balance & Neurodevelopment Breakthroughs

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 29:53


    Revolutionizing Autism Support Through Tech: Amanda Ralston's Mission

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2025 31:54 Transcription Available


    Unlocking Independence: Ed Roe on Autism, College, and Life Skills for Young Adults

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 39:55 Transcription Available


    Transforming Trauma into Gold: Healing, Growth, and Empowerment with Sylvia Moore Myers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2025 36:55 Transcription Available


    Breaking Free from Toxic Workplaces: Kelsey Neff on Building Inclusive Cultures by Design

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 26, 2025 41:52


    Hey friend! Ever worked in a place that felt more like survival than success? You're not alone—and today's guest, Kelsey Neff, is here to flip the script. Kelsey is the founder of By Design Consulting, author of 52 Weeks of Impact, and a former nonprofit professional who left the burnout hamster wheel to help leaders actually lead. After years of navigating toxic workplaces filled with favoritism, gaslighting, and burnout, Kelsey realized something big: she didn't need to play the game—she could create a better one.

    Empowering Autistic Movers: The Dance Studio Built for Neurodivergence

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2025 34:59 Transcription Available


    Transforming Trauma with Dr. Foojan Zeine: The Science Behind the Foojan App

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 37:41 Transcription Available


    Beyond Empty Nesting: Hannah Bankier on the Birdie Launch Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 39:40 Transcription Available


    Unmasking Autism: Sol Smith on Identity, Healing & Finding Your Voice

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 49:07 Transcription Available


    Designing for the Neurodivergent Mind: Creating Inclusive Spaces That Heal

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 21, 2025 35:47 Transcription Available


    Hey friends! ✨ In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design. Stephanie is on a mission to make every space—homes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildings—neuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe. And guess what? You don't need a big budget or an HGTV crew to create a calming space tailored to your unique brain.

    Neurodivergent Voices: Thomas R. Wilson on Advocacy, Healing & Storytelling

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2025 43:28 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism, where we dig deep into real experiences, big emotions, and life through a neurodivergent lens. This episode features the incredible Thomas R. Wilson—storyteller, community leader, and nationally recognized advocate for neurodivergent and mental health communities. From a childhood filled with bullying and being misunderstood to becoming a beacon of empowerment for others, Thomas's journey is as inspiring as it is powerful.

    Neurodivergent & Burned Out? Sue Day on Reclaiming Your Strengths

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 19, 2025 39:27 Transcription Available


    Hey friend! If you've ever felt burned out, overstimulated, or like your brain is doing the most when you need it to do the least—this episode is for you. Today on Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Sue Day—ADHD coach, neurodivergent advocate, and founder of Pathways Forward Coaching—who helps women and late-diagnosed adults reconnect with their strengths and redefine success on their terms. Together, we talk about:

    Thriving with Neurodivergence: Dr. Matt Zakreski on Unmasking, Burnout & Real-Life Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 18, 2025 48:32


    Hey guys hey! If you've ever felt like you're “too much,” “not enough,” or constantly code-switching just to survive—this one's for you. In this energizing and empowering episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by psychologist, author, and nationally recognized speaker Dr. Matt Zakreski, aka Dr. Matt. Together, we pull back the curtain on what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent adult in a world built for neurotypicals.

    Rewiring the Brain: How to Break Free from Negative Self-Talk

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 37:47 Transcription Available


    Hey friend! Ever spiral into negative self-talk and wonder why your brain just won't chill? You're not alone—and you're definitely not broken. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with award-winning psychologist Dr. Betsy Holmberg, author of the upcoming book The Unkind Mind (releasing June 1 from New Harbinger Publications). But this isn't your typical therapy chat. Betsy's story starts with her own depression after divorce—and a turning point that didn't come from traditional talk therapy, but from neuroscience.

    College and Autism: What Readiness Really Looks Like

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 54:56 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism—your go-to space for navigating life with neurodivergence, one real conversation at a time. In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of college readiness for autistic students. Whether you're a young adult on the spectrum or a parent helping your teen prepare for higher education, you're going to love this one. Our guest is Mindy Thornton, Director of Campus-Based Services at Marshall University, where she leads one of the most comprehensive autism support programs in the country. From academics to independent living to emotional and social development—her team's approach is holistic, inclusive, and neurodivergent-affirming.

    Breaking the Cycle: Shanenn Bryant on Healing Subconscious Patterns

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 15, 2025 41:24 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! Ever feel like life's on repeat—same drama, different day? Whether it's in your relationships, your work, or that inner critic who never shuts up... there might be a reason: your subconscious is running the show. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Shanenn Bryant—Pattern Transformation Expert, creator of Top Self, and host of the globally ranked Top Self podcast. We dive deep into:

    Autistic & Leading: How Aaron Helton Transformed People-Pleasing into Empowered Leadership

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2025 41:23 Transcription Available


    Hey friends! Today's episode brings in Aaron Helton — an autistic executive coach who's rewriting what leadership can look like for neurodivergent adults. Raised by a Tiger Mom and homeschooled with a grading scale where a “B” meant failure, Aaron knows what it means to live under pressure. From years of masking and people-pleasing to running from burnout, Aaron shares how he finally stepped into leadership with boundaries, humor, and radical self-awareness. We talk about: Why autistic adults often become overthinkers and overachievers What happens when you stop saying “yes” to stay safe And how leadership can look a whole lot more human, honest, and neurodivergent-friendly If you've ever thought, “Is it okay to want more and not break myself to get it?” — this one is for you. ☕ Want to support the show and keep this content flowing? Tap my Linktree to grab merch, join our Discord, or Buy Me a Coffee — everything's in one spot:

    College With Confidence: How Mercyhurst's AIM Program Empowers Autistic Students to Thrive

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2025 41:48 Transcription Available


    From Prison to Purpose: Matt Melvin on Autism, Faith & Second Chances

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2025 27:37 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism, where we keep it real about life, growth, and healing through a neurodivergent lens. Today's guest is Matt Melvin, author of Bullied Behind Bars: A Gay Christian Trump Supporter Goes to Prison. His story? Unapologetically raw, wildly unique—and absolutely necessary. We talk about:

    Finding Career Success with ADHD: Coaching Insights from Shell Mendelson

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 59:02 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! If you've ever felt burned out, stuck in the wrong job, or like your ADHD brain just doesn't "fit" into traditional career paths—you're not alone. Today's guest is Shell Mendelson, a powerhouse ADHD career coach with over 30 years of experience helping adults ditch the job-hopping, escape toxic work environments, and build careers that actually work for their brains—not against them. In this episode, Shell breaks down:

    Flipping the Script on Autism Employment: Tom D'Eri of Rising Tide U

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 34:36 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! Get ready for a game-changing conversation with Tom D'Eri, founder of Rising Tide Car Wash and executive director of Rising Tide U. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, Tom shares how he turned his brother Andrew's autism journey into a national model for inclusive employment—one that's profitable, powerful, and proving that autistic adults aren't a hiring risk… they're a hiring asset.

    Thriving on the Spectrum: Tracey Van Hawkins on Autism, Advocacy & Real Support

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 39:10 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Tracey Van Hawkins—mom, innovator, and founder of the Thriving on the Spectrum app and platform. Tracey shares her deeply personal story of navigating her son's autism diagnosis, the moment everything changed with the help of one observant preschool teacher, and how she turned that journey into a mission to help autistic kids and families thrive with dignity, structure, and support.

    Harnessing Your Neurospicy Superpower: Dr. Kristen Williamson on ADHD, Autism & Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 51:40 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we're embracing our “neurospicy” superpowers with the hilarious, brilliant, and wildly relatable Dr. Kristen Williamson—licensed professional counselor, DEIB speaker, and proud ringleader of a wonderfully chaotic neurodivergent family. Whether you're navigating sensory overload, dodging burnout in a neurotypical workplace, or trying not to lose your mind parenting your own spicy little humans—Dr. K is here to help you laugh, breathe, and realize your brain was never broken, just untranslated.

    Financial Freedom for ADHD & Autistic Adults: Budgeting That Makes Sense

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 33:59 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we're diving into the intersection of money, mental health, and neurodivergence with therapist and financial wellness coach Rachel Duncan—founder of the Money Healing Club. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by budgeting, struggled with impulsive spending, or just thought “I'm not good with money,” this episode will flip the script. Rachel specializes in helping autistic and ADHD adults rebuild financial trust, manage the emotional load of money, and develop systems that actually work with your nervous system—not against it.

    Late-Diagnosed & Thriving: Unmasking Autism with Josselyn Crane

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 40:26 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with Josselyn Crane—neurodivergent coach, educator, content creator, and co-founder of a thriving social club for autistic and ADHD adults. We're diving deep into the emotional rollercoaster of a late-in-life autism or ADHD diagnosis, and what comes next when you finally have answers but no roadmap. Josselyn shares how she helps adults unmask, reframe their identity, and build sustainable, shame-free systems that work for real life.

    Autism, Confidence & Success: Sam Mitchell's Journey to Community and Impact

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2025 31:47 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by the incredible Sam Mitchell—college student, public speaker, podcast host, and founder of the nonprofit Autism Rocks and Rolls Corporation. Sam's not just advocating for the autism community—he's changing the narrative entirely. We dive into Sam's journey from high school to college, how he built a nonprofit from scratch, what it's like navigating life on the autism spectrum, and how he's found confidence, purpose, and community by embracing exactly who he is.

    Transform Your Sleep & Mental Health with Tim Thomas' Breathwork Secrets

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 42:59 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I'm joined by Tim Thomas—former Special Forces operator turned breathwork expert, sleep coach, and veteran mental health advocate. Tim takes us on a journey into the science (and soul) of transformational breathing techniques, showing how your lungs might just be the best pharmacy you never knew you had. From overcoming PTSD and helping his autistic daughter find calm, to teaching elite athletes and exhausted parents how to reset their nervous systems—Tim shares how breathwork can dramatically improve your sleep, stress levels, focus, and emotional health.

    Dyslexia, ADHD & Fatherhood: Navigating Neurodivergence with Mike Forrester

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 41:14 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we're talking all about neurodivergent fatherhood, dyslexia, ADHD, and breaking generational trauma with the incredible Mike Forrester—men's transformation coach and host of the Living Fearless Today podcast. Mike gets candid about receiving his dyslexia and ADHD diagnoses later in life, and how those discoveries reshaped his role as a father, caregiver, and husband. If you've ever wondered how to balance healing, parenting, and understanding your brain all at once—this is your episode.

    Navigating Autism & Adulthood: Real Talk with Doug Blecher of Autism Personal Coach

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 35:09 Transcription Available


    Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we're talking all things autistic life coaching, transitions, and empowerment with the amazing Doug Blecher, founder of Autism Personal Coach. Doug joins us to share how his Autistic-led coaching team helps teens and adults navigate real-world challenges like independence, executive functioning, sensory overwhelm, career exploration, and more—without the pressure to “fit in” to neurotypical expectations.

    From Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence: How to Find Your Voice & Lead with Impact | ft. Steve G. Gallegos

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 41:29 Transcription Available


    Thriving While Queer, BIPOC & Autistic with Zipporah Jarmon

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 29, 2025 36:05 Transcription Available


    Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Mindset, Resilience & Martial Arts with Gene Burke

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 35:33 Transcription Available


    Unmasking Narcissism: The Hidden Connection to Neurodivergence & Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 39:40 Transcription Available


    Workplace Success for Autistic Professionals: Strategies for Career Growth & Inclusion

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 3:24 Transcription Available


    Neurodivergent Minds Uncovered: Secrets to ADHD, Autism & Unlocking Your Full Potential

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 44:58 Transcription Available


    From Trauma to Triumph: Overcoming Darkness & Reclaiming Your Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 43:29 Transcription Available


    Hey, happy Wednesday! How's your week going? I'm still catching up after being under the weather, and I'm behind on just about everything – t-shirts, recording, you name it. And I'm really missing Z this week as he's away figuring out his vocational path, which makes the house feel a bit too quiet. In this week's episode, we're delving into stories of resilience and transformation with our guest, Michael Anthony. Michael's life started in turmoil, facing massive challenges like abuse and homelessness, but he's here to share how he transformed his pain into purpose. He speaks frankly about overcoming the vortex of negative self-talk and offers tangible steps to regain power and control over your life. So grab your fave drink and get comfy, because Michael's insights are not to be missed!   http://www.thinkunbrokenpodcast.com/ https://www.facebook.com/michaelunbroken https://www.youtube.com/c/michaelunbroken https://www.instagram.com/michaelunbroken https://www.tiktok.com/@michaelunbroken  

    Trusts vs. Wills: Securing a Stable Future for Autistic Young Adults & Their Families

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2025 46:18 Transcription Available


    Mastering Life's Challenges: Balance Logic & Creativity for Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 38:48 Transcription Available


    Hey friends! This episode is a real treat as we dive into the art of life planning with the amazing Aliki on the 'Adulting with Autism' podcast. She's not just an entrepreneur, but also an engineer, artist, singer-songwriter, and muralist, blending creativity with logic like a pro. Aliki shares her powerful journey of balancing different sides of the brain and how she crafted the life-changing Summit Method to conquer life's challenges. We'll explore practical tips on setting realistic goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and keeping distractions at bay. Whether you're dreaming of scaling new heights or just getting started, Aliki's got the advice to inspire and guide you towards your best self. So, grab your favorite drink, relax, and let's get motivated together! http://www.conqueryoursummit.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@thesummitmethod https://instagram.com/alikisamonebooks?igshid=NGExMmI2YTkyZg== https://www.tiktok.com/@alikisamonebooks  

    From Bullying to Breakthrough: Maikel Michel's Journey to Empowerment

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2025 31:54 Transcription Available


    Hey there, amazing listeners! Welcome to an episode that's close to the heart—unraveling the incredible journey of Maikel Michel. Once bullied to the brink, Maikel hit rock bottom but chose a path of resilience and self-discovery. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone who's ever struggled with self-esteem and confidence. Maikel's story is all about patience, learning, and rebuilding his life piece by piece. It took him 15 long years of trial and error to emerge stronger, understanding the intricate workings of the mind. What's truly unique about Maikel's approach? He focused on understanding the 'why' before diving into the 'how'. No sugarcoating here—everyone's journey is different, and success doesn't come with a one-size-fits-all solution. However, Maikel generously shares practical insights and relatable lessons from his journey that might just inspire your own! Tune in, grab your favorite drink, and let's dive into Maikel's wisdom on the Adulting with Autism podcast.   https://maikelmichiels.blog/ https://www.facebook.com/MotivationMaikel https://twitter.com/maikel_michiels https://youtube.com/@MaikelMichiels https://www.instagram.com/theunchained.life/    

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