just Two Dads

If you were faced with raising a son diagnosed with autism, becoming a widow, and being faced with all the challenges that life brings anyway, what would you do? If your name is Debra Vines, here is what you might do. Become a warrior of a mom and Advocate. Launch a non-profit organization that assists parents and caregivers in navigating the systems of social services and academic inequality. Connect families to resources, support groups, opportunities, and so much more. Constantly bring great value to others and serve as so much of an inspiration that you end up delivering a TEDx Talk, and, in 2022, have CNN literally recognize you as a hero. That's what you do..and she's just getting started. Hear her remarkable story as she visits with Shawn & Brian in this week's episode of just Two Dads. eMail: dvines@theanswerinc.org Phone: (708) 296-5651 Website: http://theanswerinc.org/ TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AC9Q3IJeH1w Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theanswerinc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theanswerinc/ Donations: https://www.gofundme.com/f/vines-the-answer-inc — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #DebraVines #TheAnswerInc #AutismAwarenessandSupport

Happy New Year! In the first episode of the new year, Shawn & Brian discuss the matter of change. How do you respond to it & how does being a parent caregiver to one with special needs affect it all? — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #SpecialNeedsParenting #AdaptingToChange

Shawn & Brian discuss REAL tangible strategies for implementing not a list of resolutions, but a life plan. What if you could get an actual rate of return on the investment of your time? — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #BestTimeInvestmentPractices #GettingPositiveROI

Episode 117: We Are Brave Together - Financial Literacy Series Shawn & Brian discuss the union they have formed with a nonprofit organization, We Are Brave Together (https://www.wearebravetogether.org/), and a Financial Literacy Series (https://www.wearebravetogether.org/events/p/financial-planning-resource-group) they have created. Book: The Power of Zero: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Zero-Revised-Updated-Retirement/dp/1984823078 Movie: The Power of Zero: https://www.powerofzero.com/movie — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #SpecialNeedsParenting #FinancialLiteracySeries

Inclusion Consultant, Kayla Coburn sits with Shawn & Brian to share her passion for inclusion, mainstreaming, reverse mainstreaming, education where she has worked since 2009, & building a bridge between the special needs community & the general population. Book: Tyler the Snake: https://www.amazon.com/Tyler-Snake-story-friendly-deafblind/dp/B09QNWZTF7 Website: https://www.inclusionstartsnow.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inclusionstartsnow/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inclusionstartsnow YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_KuZWi4NABvIZdWyK2vMhA TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inclusionstartsnow — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #KaylaCoburn #BuddyClass #InclusionStartsNow

On this episode, Shawn & Brian have an open discussion about how the challenges of being a parent or caregiver to one with special needs can weaken or strengthen one's faith or religion. If you are a parent or caregiver, how has your faith been weakened or strengthened? — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #FaithandSpecialNeedsCaregiver #SpecialNeedsParenting

On this week's edition of Just two dads, Shawn & Brian discuss money mindset & wealth maximization strategies for families who have members with special needs — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #WealthMaximizationStrategies #SpecialNeedsFamilies

Shawn & Brian have an open, candid discussion about the fragility of life, living it to the fullest, & how that can be challenged as well as a gift, by being a caregiver to one with special needs. — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw Sponsored by Billy Footwear: https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads #justtwoDads #MortalityandHavingTheBestQualityofLife #EmpathyandLove

Billy Price returns for a visit with Shawn & Brian. As a teenager, Seattle native Billy Price suffered a spinal cord injury and became paralyzed from the chest down, losing the ability to move his fingers. Daily tasks became difficult, but using his creative mind and unyielding spirit, he never gave up. He continued on, facing life's challenges with tenacity and determination. Born out of a need, BILLY Footwear (https://billyfootwear.com/?ref=just-two-dads) was founded on the principle of inclusion. Along with fellow co-founder Darin Donaldson, Billy strives to add value to the lives of others and make a measurable difference in the world, one foot at a time. — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #BillyPrice #BillyFootwear #MakingaMeasurableDifferenceOneFootataTime

Jacqueline Nixon visits with Shawn & Brian. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, & special needs advocate. After 15 years in the oil & gas industry & serving as veteran of the U.S. Air Force. She became a published author at the age of 52, when she wrote a children's book called “Lil Steven, (Why is School So Hard)"(https://www.amazon.com/Lil-Steven-Why-School-Hard/dp/1638815232), as a result of her grandson's diagnosis of ADHD & witnessing the challenges that he faces as a result. Join us! — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #JacquelineNixon #ChildrensBookAuthor #LilSteven

This week on Just two Dads, Attorney, CNN Legal Analyst, & special needs warrior, Areva Martin stops by to visit with Shawn & Brian. She is an award-winning civil rights Attorney, best-selling Author, television & radio host, & nonprofit leader. She is the founder & principal at Martin and Martin, LLP in Los Angeles and the founder & president of the Special Needs Network (https://snnla.org/). Join us LIVE @ 11:00 am tomorrow or you can find the episode after the fact on WSTX AM radio 970 in the U.S. Virgin Islands, on our Youtube channel or wherever you get podcasts. Special Event: https://snnla.org/16th-annual-evening-under-the-stars/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialneedsnetwork/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/specialneedsnetwork Twitter: https://twitter.com/specialneedsLA — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #ArevaMartin #AmericasAdvocate #SpecialNeedsNetwork

Shawn & Brian are joined by Dr. Payam Samouhi & his wife, Liat. Dr. Samouhi is a board certified Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon in private practice in Encino, California. He was diagnosed with Crohn's disease, a form of Inflammatory bowel disease or IBD, at the age of 12. Liat Samouhi is a supportive spouse & warrior mother. As fate would have it, the Samouhi's own child was also diagnosed with IBD & through their own advocacy & being the warriors that they are, they founded their organization, IBD Strong Inc. (https://ibdstrong.org/) for which Liat serves as CEO. Join us to learn about them & their story! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibd__strong/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IBDstrong Twitter: https://twitter.com/IBD__Strong — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #LiatandDrPayamSamouhi #IBDStrongInc #CrohnsDisease

Shawn & Brian have an open discussion about the state of the U. S. & world economy and its impact on special needs families & what we can do to prepare. Apps Mentioned: https://www.gasbuddy.com/ https://www.upside.com/ — eMail:wearejusttwodads@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #SpecialNeedsFamiliesandTheEconomy #SpecialNeedsFinancialPlanning #justtwoDads

Shawn & Brian discuss the value of love & friendship in general but especially between men, amongst dads, the benefits & societal challenges regarding the expression of that love & above all, its effects & need among dads to children with special needs. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #LoveAmongstMen #BrotherlyLove #justtwoDads

Dr. LaQuista Erinna is a licensed therapist, autism mom/advocate, and founder of The AuSome Mom Society (https://ausomemomsociety.com/). Mothers rely on her education and advocacy to confidently navigate the challenges they face during all stages of their children's journey on the autism spectrum. Through her strategies, Dr. LaQuista helps autism moms forge stronger bonds with their children while prioritizing self-care so they can live happier, more fulfilling lives. She visits with Shawn & Brian to discuss her journey as a special needs parent, & the mission behind her venture to bring peace of mind to special needs mothers everywhere. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laquistaerinna/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ausomemomsociety Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laquistaerinna YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LaQuistaErinna/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #DrLaQuistaErinna #AuSomeMomSociety #AutismWarriorMom

Dr. Doreen Granpeesheh (https://www.doreengranpeesheh.com/) stops by for a visit. She has dedicated over thirty years to helping individuals with autism lead healthy, productive lives. founded the Center for Autism & Related Disorders, also known as CARD (https://www.centerforautism.com/), which is one of the world's largest providers of ABA-based treatment for individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. CARD has over 260 locations throughout the United States and internationally, employs over 1,000 highly skilled professionals, and is a leading employer of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Everyone is a story that once told, has the potential to inspire many. Join us! Book Reference: Let Me Hear Your Voice: A Family's Triumph Over Autism by Catherine Maurice Resource: https://www.skillsforautism.com/ Foundation: https://www.act-today.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askdrdoreen/ Podcast: https://autism-live.com/list/author/Dr.%20Doreen%20Granpeesheh/Dr.%20Doreen%20Granpeesheh Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/askdrdoreen Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@askdrdoreen — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #AskDrDoreen #CenterforAutism #SkillsforAutism #InstituteforBehavioralTraining #ACTToday

Mother, Author, & Advocate, Kate Swenson stops by Just two dads for a visit with Shawn & Brian to share her journey & how being a mom to a son with Autism has inspired her & served as the impetus for her book, "Forever Boy, a Mother's Memoir of Autism & Finding Joy" (https://amzn.to/3691swl) which is available wherever books are sold. Website: https://www.findingcoopersvoice.com/ The More Than Project Foundation: https://www.findingcoopersvoice.com/foundation/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingcoopersvoice/ Podcast: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/findingcoopersvoice Facebook Group: https://facebook.com/becomesupporter/findingcoopersvoice/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgZfCCbfnkfjlvtsRUuAFaQ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #FindingCoopersVoice #TheSecretWorldofAutism #ForeverBoy

Shawn & Brian have an open, honest, discussion about how men cope (or don't cope) with emotion, how that affects parenting, well being, & in particular, being a special needs parent. Real talk! — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justtwoDads #MenVulnerabilityEmotionsandCommunication #SpecialNeedsParenting

Chris Wenger is an enthusiastic Speech & Language Therapist and creator of the Dynamic Assessment of Social Emotional Learning, as well as the Neurodiversity Affirming IEP Course. He is an internationally-acclaimed presenter who loves to share the most current trends to help older Autistic students. A prominent thought leader in the field of speech pathology, and known on social media as “Speech Dude (https://www.speechdude.com/),” he motivates and entertains fellow educators and clinicians through his humorous and inspiring posts and videos & he joins Shawn & Brian to share his story. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speechdude/ Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/speechdude Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@speechdude Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespeechdude/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SpeechDude — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #ChrisWerner #SpeechDude #DynamicAssessmentofSocialEmotionalLearning

Laura Hales visits Shawn & Brian to talk inspiration & advocacy! She's a mother of two autistic children, a published author of two children's books.. Alex & the Drummer (https://alexandthedrummer.square.site/) and Alex & the Muffin Man (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thedrummerstories/alex-and-the-muffin-man-autism-acceptance-books), both of which are about Autism Acceptance & can be found on Amazon or wherever you buy books. Laura's also an Autism Acceptance presenter, voice actor, personal trainer and Music teacher. She spends most of her days advocating for children's rights in & outside of education, sharing educational videos to help the community better understand her boys, which in turn, serves us all. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedrummerstories/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-bestie-laura/id1529941722 Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/235957780822551/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/director.hales Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurahales28 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyhP3SAVguaFbJCID5q1xVw — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #LauraHales #TheDrummerStoriesAuthor #AutismWarriorMom

Shawn & Brian are again visited by Jordan Quinones who is Brian's daughter & one of the inspirations for Just two dads. They will reflect on past episodes, discuss Shawn & Brian's vision for the future of the show, & the 1,000 family campaign to provide financial literacy, service, education, & opportunity to 1,000 families in the next 12 months. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justtwoDads100thEpisode #OnAMissiontoHelp1000SpecialNeedsFamilies #justtwoDadsOriginStory

Change is a guarantee in life, a necessity but it can also be difficult for anyone. But for a parent or caregiver to one with special needs, it can be especially daunting. The Autism Dad (https://www.theautismdad.com/), Rob Gorski returns to have a conversation with Shawn about this & more, sharing his own experience. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #TheAutismDad #RobGorski #ComfortVsChange

Shawn & Brian discuss the importance, need, & effects of children being raised in an environment or home with dreams versus a home run by parents who have no dreams & why this especially matters in homes of special needs families. September 17th, 2022 Financial Planning Event: https://www.wearebravetogether.org/events/p/financial-planning-resource-group — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justtwoDads #SpecialNeedsParenting #GoalsandDreams

Did you know that there are 3 domains & TEN categories of life skills? Julie Swanson visits with Shawn Francis to discuss these life skills and more. Julie Swanson is a parent to a thriving child with Autism. She's a special education advocate, & the founder of https://lifeskillslady.com/ which was created to serve as the link between life skills & increased quality of life for those with autism. She is also the author of Your Special Education Rights: What Your School District Isn't Telling You as well as the companion website, https://yourspecialeducationrights.com/, a video-based website that simplifies parent's rights under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #JulieSwanson #LifeSkillsLady #AutismSpectrumLifeSkillsCoach

Pakalana Phillips is a wife, the mother of 6 children, ages 8-23, & has spent 14 years with the Hawaii Department oF Education teaching at the Elementary, Pre-school & High School levels. Her students included the visually impaired & those on the Autism Spectrum. She visits with Shawn & Brian to share her story of service to others in general, but why she chose to specifically serve the special needs community & how the manner in which she serves has changed, & why she's excited about it. Teacher Pakalana Phillips started working for the Hawaii Department of Education in 2003 as an Educational Assistant at Kamehameha III Elementary Preschool working with Special Education students that were autistic and blind, then moving up to Elementary, Intermediate, and then High School. At Lahainaluna High School she co-taught as a Special Education Teacher her favorite topic Social Studies and ended her education career in April 2022 as Lahainaluna's Student Activities Coordinator and Yearbook Coordinator. She enjoys teaching students how to be involved and serve their community to become future leaders. Pakalana has degrees in Hawaiian Studies, Pacific Island studies and also a teaching license in Special Education and Social Studies. Personal Pakalana is a mother of 6 children from ages 8-23 years old, two boys and 4 girls. She has built several companies in the entertainment industry, global product distribution, and financial industry. She loves educating families on health and financial wellness. She enjoys traveling the world performing with her husband who is a musician and a Na Hoku Hanohano Award Winner. Community Pakalana is constantly involved in her community from participating in annual beach clean ups, projects, and fundraising. She has been the Lahainaluna PTSA President for the last 6 years, I KA NANI O LELE Festival Coordinator, Project Graduation Coordinator, Graduation Coordinator, and Sunday School Teacher. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pakalanap/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pakalana.phillips — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #PakalanaPhillips #SpecialEducationTeacher #SpecialNeedsAdvocate

Michelle Rogers visits Shawn & Brian to share her journey from her child's autism diagnosis to providing families with the hope she sought & found. She founded & runs a business called Champions for our children (https://www.michellebrogers.com/) & both it & her are essentially the answer to the following question... my child has been diagnosed... now what? The great thing is that it is not limited to autism. Take a look & listen.

Michelle Rogers visits Shawn & Brian to share her journey from her child's autism diagnosis to providing families with the hope she sought & found. Michelle B. Rogers is an Autism Mom & Life Coach for Parents of Children with Autism. She is an expert in helping parents Potty Train and Improve the Communication Skills of their children, with a "straight forward" results-driven approach. Her mission is helping every child with Autism to reach their greatest potential by empowering their parents. She provides Autism Parents with the mental, emotional and tactical tools and strategies to help their child live as independent of a life as possible so they too get their independence back. Website: https://www.michellebrogers.com/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #MichelleBRogers #ChampionsforOurChildren #AustismMom #LifeCoachforParentsofChildrenwithAutism

Estate planning Attorney, Glen Wagstaff returns to the show to talk with Shawn & Brian about EXACTLY how estate plans work & why they are especially important to special needs families.. now more than ever. Website: https://www.intervivosplan.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inter-vivos-pllc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intervivosplan YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Intervivosplanestateplanning — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #GlenWagstaff #SpecialNeedsEstatePlanning #LegacyPlanning

Katie Asher visits Shawn & Brian to discuss her incredible personal spiritual journey of triumph over tragedy as well as her son, Houston who went from an autism diagnosis & challenge with communication, to in vivid detail, explaining his experience & perception, to co-authoring with his mom, a book about this journey. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #KatieAsher #TheBookofHeaven #SpecialNeedsParenting

Rob Gorski is a single dad to three.. yes THREE boys on the autism spectrum. He's the founder & CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC, an award winning blogger & host of The Autism Dad podcast. All of this is nothing compared to his actual story & he visits with Shawn & Brian to share it. Inspiration is certain. Website: https://www.theautismdad.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautismdad/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theautismdad YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/robgorski — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #RobGorski #TheAutismDad #justTwoDads

Shawn & Brian have an unusually candid conversation about financial education, financial literacy, & what it means to the special needs community Financial Planning Event Registration: https://www.wearebravetogether.org/events/p/financial-planning-resource-group — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justTwoDads #FinancialPlanningfortheSpecialNeedsFamily #FinancialLiteracyfortheSpecialNeedsFamily

Shawn & Brian are visited by Tamara Wiggins who's taken her daughter's diagnosis & not only turned it into a business but with unique vulnerability, invites the world into her daily experience as a parent, through social media. Tamara Wiggins is a social media influencer that supports families of special needs children and their caregivers. She focuses on highlighting diversity in the Autism community, and began when her daughter Lilac was diagnosed in 2011. As an advocate, she offers advice and support for people navigating the Early Intervention and special education process. She also creates family videos showing the day to day life of being a caregiver to someone on the spectrum on her Instagram and TikTok page LivingWithLilac, focused on both the challenges and the joys. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingwithlilac/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@livingwithlilac Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LivingwithLilac/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4l4Bj5iWTlSU-NIFJnWD8g — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #TamaraWiggins #LivingwithLilac #RaisingAutismAwareness

Shawn & Brian are visited by Diane Rambo as she shares her story about how she took her son's autism diagnosis & turned it into a business to serve others as a travel agent specializing in serving special needs families. Diane Rambo is the Founder/CEO of Destined Adventures, an Autism Travel Expert, Consultant and mother of two, one of whom is autistic. Diane understands how scary it is to go to public places with an autistic child, let alone travel. She believes that every family deserves to travel seamlessly, confidently and create lasting memories. How many of you with autistic children have concerns with traveling successfully? What have you done to prepare your child(ren) to apply what they have learned? Diane serves neurodiverse families with compassion, personal experiences and strategies to create a more peaceful home leading up to travel. She eliminates your concerns so you gain the freedom and power to create lifelong impressions. Her vision is to educate, inspire and empower neurodiverse families to overcome their fear of parental failure through community, collaboration, patience and commitment. She has been successful transforming her son's social and life skills while expanding his liquid diet and exploring solid foods like meat, fruits and vegetables. Diane holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Missouri and Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP) from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). Mentoring 17 years in corporate, Diane recognizes ways to make learning simple, fun and convenient for busy families. She enjoys pasta, Transformers and Marvel Movies, Law & Order series and will always see her smiling (her laugh is contagious). Eager to hear from you. Feel free to call or email her: Diane Rambo, 725-677-1979, Diane@DestinedAdventures.com. — Website: https://www.destinedadventures.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AutismTravelConsultDianeRambo/ LinkedIn: hthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/autismtravelconsultdianerambo/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutismTravelConsultDianeRambo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCy_EIKyP1tR2NRV3hsWNjqg – Resources: https://thearc.org/our-initiatives/travel/ https://www.tsa.gov/about/employee-stories/tsa-and-airports-partner-autism-organizations https://ibcces.org/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #DianeRambo #DestinedAdventures #CertifiedAutismTravelConsultant

Dr. Kathy Macleay visit with Shawn & Brian to share the extraordinary story of her & her family's lifelong commitment to those with special needs Personal Investments:: A Practical Guide to How to Use Psychotherapy as an Investment in Your Life by Dr. Kathy Macleay: https://www.amazon.com/Personal-Investments-Practical-Psychotherapy-Investment/dp/B08F6Y3NP4 — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/justtwodads LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #KathyMacLeay #InvestingInYourSelfWorth #justTwoDads

Shawn & Brian are visited by Sequoia Houston, host of the podcast, "Diversity be like". Tune in as they discuss the challenges, needs, & benefits for all, when diversity is part of the special needs community. Mentioned: The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson https://www.mochastock.com/ Website: https://sequoiahouston.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sequoiahouston/ Podcast: https://diversitybelike.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sequoiahouston YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/sequoiahouston — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #SequoiaHouston #DiversityBeLike #justTwoDads

Sri Hatharasinghe-Gerschler, M.A., stops by to talk with Shawn & Brian about her journey from her own experience as a student in special education, to her choice to now become a warrior for those in a similar position. Website: https://www.srihatharasinghegerschler.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/srihatgerschler_ieps_n_more_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iepsaremyjam/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #SriHatharasingheGerschler #MasterIEPCoach #LetYourLightShine #justTwoDads

April 20, 2022 | Episode 85 Shawn & Brian are visited by Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson who shares her story of inspiration & triumph over challenge & her mission to serve others. Nancy Alspaugh-Jackson is a former Emmy award winning television executive and producer who pioneered the magazine show format with the syndicated show PM Magazine and served as the Executive Producer on the long running talk show, Leeza. In those capacities, Alspaugh-Jackson helped foster the careers of many people who run the television industry today. Alspaugh-Jackson is the co-author of 2 books, Not Your Mother's Midlife: A Ten Step Guide to Fearless Aging, and Fearless Women: Midlife Portraits with Marilyn Kentz. Alspaugh-Jackson and Kentz have done extensive motivational speaking about fearless aging as well as performed nationally in the two women show, Boomer Babes. The 2 women are currently teaching an online course, Fearless Aging Together. From 2005 until October of 2019, she served as Executive Director of Autism Care Today, a role she was led to after dedicating herself to finding ways to help her own son, Wyatt, diagnosed with autism at the age of three. She quickly realized there was little awareness and few resources for families affected by this developmental disorder and threw herself into changing that. Under her leadership, Autism Care Today has distributed close to 2.5 million dollars in grants to families around the country. Alspaugh-Jackson serves as co-host of Let's Talk Autism with Shannon and Nancy on Autism Live (https://autism-live.com/), an interactive webcast providing support, resources, information, entertainment and inspiration to parents and practitioners working with those on the Autism Spectrum. Currently, Alspaugh Jackson is the director of Recovery at The Ranch at Special Spirit, Inc.,( https://www.specialspirit.org/), an animal and equine assisted program for those in recovery for addiction issues. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyalspaughjackson 10 Steps to EmPOWERment: https://youtu.be/3s7FxZeqf6M Mentioned: https://friendlyhousela.org/ https://www.centerforautism.com/ https://www.act-today.org/ https://tacanow.org/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #NancyAlspaughJackson #SpecialSpiritInc #AutismLive #justTwoDads

April 13, 2022 | Episode 84 Shawn & Brian are visited by Athalie Malone who lost her sight after suffering a stroke. She discusses how she turned that challenge into a blessing for others. Athalie Malone was born December 28, 1965 on the beautiful island of St. Thomas in the United States Virgin Islands. She moved to San Antonio in 1980 and proudly graduated from SGRH Royal in 1983. Ms. Malone attended Bethune-Cookman University, where she studied Business Administration. Due to health she did not finish her last year. She worked in the private sector and ecumenical sector of San Antonio from 1987 to 2007 at which time she lost her vision. Additionally appointed to Via Metropolitan Transit Board September 2019. Currently serves on the Intergovernmental Relations & Public Affairs Committee, Chairperson Audit Committee and Board Secretary. Past President and current member National Federation of the Blind Past Board member, & Secretary current member of San Lighthouse Lions Co-chair National White Cane Awareness Day Chairperson Disability Access Advisory Committee Mentioned: https://nfb.org/ https://whitecaneday.org/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #AthalieMalone #WhiteCaneDay #SightVsVision #justTwoDads

April 6, 2022 | Episode 83 We are joined by award winning actress, philanthropist, mother, wife, & special needs warrior& then some, Holly Robinson Peete. You may recognize her from her work on TV shows "Sesame Street", "21 Jump Street", "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper", "Chicago Fire", "Law & Order: SVU", to name a few. But there is so much more to her. Her son, RJ was diagnosed with Autism at a time when resources were low & ignorance was high. Through perseverance & love, she & her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete fought to provide RJ with independence & a path towards purpose. Together, they founded the HollyRod Foundation which does stellar work for the community. Today, RJ works for the Los Angeles Dodgers & he's come so far away from the dark prognosis that the “experts” first forecasted for him. You will find out there is so much more to Holly, her story, & her family. Website: https://hollyrod.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HollyRodFDN/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HollyRodFoundation Book: https://shop.scholastic.com/parent-ecommerce/books/charlie-makes-a-splash-9781338687262.html Mentioned: https://www.hbo.com/movies/street-gang-how-we-got-to-sesame-street https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/meet-the-peetes https://deliveringjobs.org/ https://disabilityin.org/ https://www.jackandjillinc.org/ https://www.amazon.com/Charlie-Makes-Splash-Holly-Robinson/dp/1338687263/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #HollyRobinsonPeete #WarriorMom #HollyRodFoundation #SpecialNeedsParenting #justTwoDads

March 30, 2022 | Episode 82 Shawn & Brian chat with Maisie Soetantyo, founder of Autism Career Pathways. Maisie is an openly autistic advocate and inclusivity trainer. In 2019, Maisie started the nonprofit Autism Career Pathways with a mission to increase hiring and long-term retention rates for autistic individuals seeking careers in all types of businesses. Maisie also believes that autistic individuals have the right to redefine meaningful employment in their best possible ways. As a long time family and professional mentor Maisie believes that every autistic person has a story to share with the world, and it is her passion to prepare the world to embrace and take part in his/her/their story. With her understanding of autism, Maisie works to empower caregivers, professionals, job coaches and mentors at work to have the right mindset when supporting someone with different abilities. Website: https://autismcareerpathways.org/ Better Community Certified: https://www.instagram.com/bettercommunitycertified — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #MaisieSoetantyo #AutismCareerPathways #AustisticAdvocate #justTwoDads

March 23, 2022 | Episode 81 Shawn & Brian discuss the myriad of ways that special needs families are affected financially. From personal finance to how benefits are attained, protected, & even affected by the pandemic. Mentioned: https://www.wearebravetogether.org/ https://www.bankrate.com/ ABLE Accounts: https://www.irs.gov/government-entities/federal-state-local-governments/able-accounts-tax-benefit-for-people-with-disabilities The Power of Zero by David McKnight — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justTwoDads #SpeciaNeedsandMoney #PlanforYourFuture

March 16, 2022 | Episode 80 For each diagnosis, each person, & each situation, things may differ but there are certainly experiences that are also shared or common. Shawn & Brian discuss these today...from the perspective of a dad.. & beyond. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justTwoDads #SpecialNeedsParenting #ParentsandCaregivers

March 9, 2022 | Episode 79 Actor, Warrior, & Advocate, Greg Grunberg visits with Shawn & Brian to discuss being a father to a child with epilepsy, his mission to remove the stigma associated with it, & his non-profit organization. Greg Grunberg is best known for his role as X-wing pilot Snap Wexley in “STAR WARS”, as well as “STAR TREK”, “A STAR IS BORN” and alongside Al Pacino in the Barry Levinson film ‘PATERNO.' As well as on his many memorable series “HEROES”, “CASTLE ROCK”, “LOST”, “ALIAS” and “FELICITY”. Currently Grunberg stars alongside Kevin Smith in the cult classic “MAX RELOAD & THE NETHER BLASTERS” as well as the much beloved “BIG ASS SPIDER”. Greg has written pilots & films and co-wrote the graphic novel series “DREAM JUMPER” for Scholastic. Book 2 is available everywhere now. Grunberg hosted and produced alongside Kevin Smith the pop-culture talk show “GEEKING OUT” for AMC and currently is a staple on the popular gameshow “25 WORDS OR LESS”. He has podcasts “TALK ABOUT IT”, “VESTED INTEREST”, & “AN ACTOR, COMEDIAN & A MUSICIAN WALK INTO A BAR”. Currently he is shooting his popular YouTube series “THE CAREGIVER“ for the Epilepsy community. Grunberg started his celebrity rock band “THE ACTION FIGURES“ (TheActionFiguresBand.com) with fellow actors Jesse Spencer, Adrian Pasdar, Jack Coleman, and Scott Grimes benefiting TalkAboutIt.org, his foundation to raise awareness for people with Epilepsy as his eldest son has the condition. Grunberg has been voted one of the most interesting actors to follow on Twitter & IG. “It's not about how hard you hit. It's about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward.” - Sylvester Stallone The Action Figures: https://www.theactionfiguresband.com/ Talk About It Company!: https://talkaboutit.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greggrunberg/ Podcast: https://talkaboutit.org/epilepsy/podcast Twitter: https://twitter.com/greggrunberg Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ggrunberg1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzBigEQ7WrjBJ4Q-I1l9y6A The Caregiver Series: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwURcYZFvmI4kgBF87rkwKQfRHLVudox_ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #GregGrunberg #TalkAboutItCompany #RaisingEpilepsyAwareness #justTwoDads

Is there a right or wrong term that should be used to identify your child with special needs? Shawn & Brian discuss the topic of labels, how various members of society use them to identify themselves.. & especially, the terms parents of children with special needs, choose to identify the children they love.

March 2, 2022 | Episode 78 Shawn & Brian discuss the very personal matter of how one chooses to identify their child or loved one with special needs. — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #justTwoDads #SpecialNeedsParenting #ExercisingEmpathywithHowOthersIdentify

February 23, 2022 | Episode 77 Shawn & Brian are visited by front line special needs warriors, Matt Asner & his wife, Navah Paskowitz-Asner as they discuss their path into the community & the amazing work they are doing at the Ed Asner Family Center, named after Matt's father, legendary actor, Ed Asner. This dynamic couple share their journey in the special needs community. They have separately and collectively made great advances and improvements to the community. They talk about how both families contributed and impacted families and lives tremendously. Surfwise: https://youtu.be/tn49N2QQ21w Website: https://edasnerfamilycenter.org/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-brady-bunch-of-autism/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/edasnerfamilycenter/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjT74SCddJD8ziydvKiZaIQ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-GN4T9fkHEVR5R_16w_7bw #NavahPaskowitzAdnerAndMattAsner #TheEdAdnerFamilyCenter #SupportForTheEntireSpecialNeedsFamily #justTwoDads

February 9, 2022 | Episode 76 Corey Fox pays a visit to Shawn & Brian to discuss how his organization, Developmental Dynamo, helps the exceptional child thrive. Developmental Dynamo is dedicated to using cutting-edge ideas and methodologies to treat each individual child. For more than 13 years, Corey Fox and his team of development professionals have been working with exceptional children and their families to meet this goal. Website: http://developmentaldynamo.com/ — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads #coreyfox #developmentaldynamo #helpingtheexceptionalchildthrive #justtwodads

Feburary 2, 2022 | Episode 75 David Hirsch pays a visit to Shawn & Brian. He is the founder of the Special Father's Network, & 21stcenturydads.org, organizations that uplift, unite, & recognize father's who are raising children with Special Needs. David's professional career began in 1982 when he obtained his CPA and worked as an auditor and tax accountant with Price Waterhouse in Chicago. From 1985-2007 he was a financial advisor with Smith Barney, Inc., where he was a Senior VP and a member of the firm's Chairman's Council for 18 years. He spent eight years at Credit Suisse Private Banking USA, before CSPB exited the U.S. He is currently a Senior Vice President at UBS Wealth Management. His clients include foundations, endowments, and high net worth individuals. He prides himself on taking a consultative approach in a product-driven industry. David earned his MBA from Northwestern University's J.L. Kellogg Graduate School of Management and a Bachelors of Science degree in Accountancy from the University of Illinois. He is also a graduate of the IWI Chartered Private Wealth Management Program at University of Chicago and the Certified Investment Management Analyst Program at University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business. From 1993 to 1996 David was a Kellogg National Fellow with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation. He was one of 50 selected from a pool of more than 800 applicants to go through this three year interdisciplinary leadership program. He dedicated three months a year for three years and used his $36,000 grant to study “what motivates people to be philanthropic.” In 1997 David founded Illinois Fatherhood Initiative, the country's first state wide non-profit fatherhood organization, whose mission is connecting children and fathers by engaging fathers in the education of children. He is also founder of 21st Century Dads Foundation. David is a FINRA arbitrator, member of the University of Illinois Foundation President's Council, Union League Club of Chicago, Illinois CPA Society, AICPA, Theta Xi National Fraternity, the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Valley of Chicago, and Investment Wealth Institute (IWI). He is a former board member of Habitat for Humanity's International Board of Advisors, the Barrington Area Community Foundation, and Chicago Police Memorial Foundation Board of Advisors. He was recognized by Crain's Chicago Business in 1994 as one of the “40 under 40” and by Registered Representative Magazine in 1995 as one of the country's “Outstanding Brokers.” In 2000 he received the John Stanford Education Heroes Award from the U.S. Department of Education. In 2005 the Illinois CPA Society recognized David with its Distinguished Public Service Award. In 2007, he was recognized as one of three Fathers of the Year by Illinois Fatherhood Initiative. In 2009, he received the Man of Distinction Award from Theta Xi National Fraternity. He also completed the Wisconsin Ironman Triathlon (2009) and Ironman Florida (2020). In 2012 David was the recipient of the Ellis Island Medal of Honor. In 2015, he cycled 2,325 miles from Santa Monica to Chicago as part of Dads Honor Ride 2015 and gave a TEDx Talk entitled Why We Need To Break The Cycle Of Father Absence. He also completed DHR16 a 1,400 mile 21 day ride from Boston to Chicago and DHR17 a 958 mile 9 day ride around Lake Michigan. He also hosts the popular Special Fathers Network Dad To Dad Podcast, now with more than 160 episodes. He is the author of 21st Century Dads: A Father's Journey to Break The Cycle Of Father Absence, as well as Autism Stories: From the SFN Dad To Dad Podcasts. Website: https://21stcenturydads.org/ #davidahirsch #specialfathersnetwork #21stcenturydads

Shawn & Brian are visited by Faith Golden, a special education teacher, childhood development professional, & Grandmother to a child with a rare condition, Tuberous sclerosis. Join in as she shares her journey, challenges, & lessons. Faith's career with children goes back to age 8 when she began as a mother's helper in her neighborhood. The parents really appreciated having an extra pair of hands, especially the family with four children, two of them twins. Her major in college was a natural one, Home Economics with an emphasis on Child Development. The child development classes included developmental milestones, child psychology, family systems and a lot of observation and practice in the campus preschool. Faith graduated with her degree and teaching credential in Home Economics. She continued her course work with epidemiology and health science classes and a course to become a Lamaze teacher, which she taught for 13 years while she raised her son and daughter. When a fellow Lamaze teacher asked her, she took a job working with pregnant and parenting mentally disabled adults and found the work so fascinating that she went back to school to get a master's degree and credential to teach Early Childhood Special Education. After teaching special education adults and children for close to 20 years and working with over 2400 families. Faith left to open It's Aparent, Parenting and Behavior Specialists so she could work with individual families, with both “typical” and special needs children, to empower them to be the parents to their children that they always wanted to be. Faith also wanted to help all families whose children had special needs to navigate the special education system. Today, Faith is the Nana to 7 wonderful grandkids ranging in age from 11 to 26 months. She volunteers at (Child Development Institute) CDI helping with Child Development Screenings and other areas of need.

January 19, 2022 | Episode 73 Shawn & Brian discuss what it means to be a good person. Is it simple, or something one should be working on all the time & improving? — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/just_two_dads/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/just-two-dads/id1535250142 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justtwodads Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearejusttwodads #justtwodads #loveandempathy #legacy

Shawn & Brian are visited by Myrna Scales a wife, mother, & warrior who shares the story of her infant son's cancer diagnosis, his treatment, what she learned from it, & how she is making it the ultimate teachable moment for others!