Podcasts about related disabilities

When dealing with a parent's concern about their child's communication, a pediatric audiologist may face multidisciplinary issues and need to make referrals. This episode's guests say pediatric audiologists may be the first step in a larger health care journey. They highlight the importance of delivering appropriate services to families at a critical time. Hear from two pediatric audiologists who work as instructors at LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) programs. We're dedicating this episode to these multidisciplinary training programs, and their role in preparing pediatric audiologists.Plus, one LEND instructor in North Carolina shares a personal connection to her work.Learn More:Developing Future Pediatric Audiology Leaders: The LEND ExperienceGeorgia Puts Pediatric Hearing Care on Wheels to Address Service ShortagesPediatric Audiologists: Partners in Early Diagnosis of Autism

Seth Besse & Lindsay Crane of Undivided.io stop by for a visit with Shawn & Brian. Seth is Seth Besse is a seasoned entrepreneur and product leader, who has launched innovative technology products that enhance efficiency and broaden access to information. Seth and his team at Undivided.io are developing a groundbreaking platform – the first of its kind – designed to support families raising children with disabilities. This project underscores Seth's firm belief in the transformative potential of combining the collectiveknowledge of experienced parents and advocates with the power of cutting-edge technology.Lindsay is the Head of Content and Community at Undivided, sharing their mission to support and empower parents raising children with disabilities. As the parent of a teenager with cerebral palsy, Lindsay is driven to build and reinforce systems and practices that create a more inclusive culture. She's currently serving as a Community Representative on the CA State Interagency Coordinating Council on Early Intervention and recently completed both a fellowship in the CA-LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) program at CHLA and a national appointment for The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD)'s Council on Leadership in Advocacy. She advocates for systemic change and the establishment of inclusive education and culture at local, statewide, and national levels.

Oklahoma Family Network's We Saved You A Seat had the incredible privilege to sit down with Charles Moore. Our fun, education, and meaningful conversation will be released fully in 4 separate episodes as we prepare to celebrate and honor the uniqueness of 300 million people worldwide who live with a rare disease on February 29th.   We introduce you to Charles Moore. He is a father to two children: a 13-year-old son, Charles III, who has Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS), and a 16-year-old daughter, Zion. He has independently raised his children for most of their lives.   In this first episode of our 4-part release, Charles visits with us about his OKLEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) experience. He also takes us back through early ultrasounds, delivery, and the diagnostic process for Charles III.   Rare Disease Day is the official international awareness-raising campaign for rare diseases, observed annually on the last day of February. The primary goal of this campaign is to increase awareness among the general public and decision-makers about rare diseases and their influence on the lives of families living with these conditions.   With over 300 million people globally living with a rare disease, we join hands across borders and amidst the 6000+ rare diseases to advocate for equitable access to diagnosis, treatment, care, and social opportunities.   Rare disease statistics to share with others: While each disease may be rare, collectively, they impact a large number of people. 300 million people worldwide live with a rare disease. There are over 6000 different rare diseases. 72% of rare diseases are genetic. 70% of these rare genetic diseases begin in childhood.   #Rare #CdLS #Syndrome #Fatherhood #OKLEND  

I dive deeper into the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. LLC I find more than expected. There is corruption, abuse, neglect, lawsuits and more. https://fierceautie.com/2023/10/21/qu... More about ABA: https://fierceautie.com/2020/01/19/wh... --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/fierceautie/support

Join us for Trauma & its impact on individuals with neurodevelopmental differences with Jennifer Abbanat.Jennifer says:I am a wife and a mom to three neurodivergent kids (ages 20,18, and 15), each with their own unique needs and challenges. Two of my kids are autistic and two of my kids have Tourette's Syndrome. All three have also had medical complexities, with my two youngest needing ongoing medical care for chronic illness since birth. I have had to learn how best to advocate and support each of them within the different systems of society (esp medical and educational systems) over the years by essentially creating their own individual “playbook.”After less than 3 months of first grade, we chose to take our son out of school as they were not appropriately meeting his complex needs and in fact, were creating more distress for him.I “unschooled” him for 9 years and allowed him to guide me as to what he needed both for his learning and development, but more importantly, his overall well-being as a human. I just wanted my son to be happy and experience joy! He has been an excellent tour guide!He entered back into our public school in 9th grade through an Independent Study School where he will graduate high school in June. I truly believe every child can be, successful; no matter how that looks. Our kids need the adults in their life to be present, love them unconditionally and to never give up on them.Despite the challenges over the years, I have found it vital to enjoy the ordinary moments that are often overlooked when families face extraordinary circumstances.Through the years, I have taken to heart what Dr. Bruce Perry says, “People, not programs, change people.” This is one reason I started a local parent support group, something that didn't exist when I was going through the early years and seeking helpful resources. I have also joined with a few other “moms” to bring support, resources and education on a larger scale to our community called Yolo Neurodiverse Network. Our focus is on the people who work with, care for and support neurodiverse people.It can be very hard on families, but I never lose sight that my son experienced some very serious adversity early in his development, and that this is “why” we may see him struggle in areas of life. This guides me to understanding more about relational neuroscience, Attachment Theory, how early adversity can impact the developing brain, and how this impacts everything in his life. Trauma informed, brain aligned, neuroaffirming practices need to be the framework to appropriately support our kids in all settings and especially for those who have vulnerable nervous systems and developmental delays.In February 2023, I will be completing the Traumatic Stress Studies 7mo course with Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, through the Trauma Research Foundation and in 2021 I completed Dr. Dan Siegel's 6mo course in Interpersonal Neurobiology. I have also completed over 100 hours of professional development in trauma, special education and advocacy, behavioral health, Poly Vagal Theory, neurodevelopmental disabilities and differences, and the many therapy modalities that can help support an individual in the trauma healing process, ie, play therapy, expressive arts therapy, somatic experiencing therapies, and importantly therapies that focus on body up approaches rather than top-down cognitive approaches.In addition to the Traumatic Stress Studies course, I am also in a 10-month LEND Trainee program (Leadership in Education of Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities) through the University of California, Davis at The MIND Institute.Support the show

Paige Weber, LPC shares openly about living with dyslexia. Paige shares about the 3 types of dyslexia, strengths of dyslexia and accommodations that can help. Paige is a Licensed Professional Counselor and received her Master's degree in Mental Health from Mid-American Nazarene University. Paige also has a certificate from the University of Kansas Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities program. With an extensive background in working with inpatient mental health programs before graduate school, she is well-versed in navigating mental health systems. Paige often uses these tools with parents of special needs children who are navigating services, advocacy, and those experiencing caregiver fatigue.Paige also has experience and training in issues related to anxiety, childhood trauma, adult trauma, emotional regulation, family dysfunction, parents with special needs children, adult children of alcoholics who have experienced abuse and neglect, and working with neurodiverse populations. Paige is a therapist for those who have a deep desire to understand who they are and their patterns of relating and want to do deep psychological work. Depth work is clinically done using a psychodynamic and family systems framework. Paige is an integrated clinician who pulls from Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, Emotion Focused Techniques as well as Somatic Experiencing.  Paige has also been a professional speaker for the last decade in the areas of neurodiversity, trauma, and psychological topics.OFFERS & HELPFUL LINKS:Paige's website Made by Dyslexia websiteCounseling Community TikTokJennifer Agee coaching pageDestination Continuing Education Facebook communityCounseling Community Instagram

Most of us at one time or another might have heard the saying, “great minds think alike.” Perhaps our colleagues have said it when collectively the same decision is made, or an exceptional idea is brainstormed in a group. But do great minds think alike, or do great minds think differently?In today's episode, hosts Christine Bilbrey and Jamie Moore welcome Haley Moss, author of Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals. We discuss how having a better understanding of neurodivergence can help lawyers foster positive relationships with their colleagues and help them work more effectively with the clients they serve.  About Haley Moss:Diagnosed with autism at the age of three, Haley Moss's parents were told that she might not ever finish high school or earn a driver's license. Today she is a lawyer, neurodiversity expert, keynote speaker, educator, and the author of four books that guide neurodivergent individuals through professional and personal challenges. Haley is a consultant to top corporations and nonprofits that seek her guidance in creating a diverse workplace, and a sought-after commentator on disability rights and the Americans With Disabilities Act.The first openly autistic lawyer in Florida, Haley's books include “Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals” (ABA Book Publishing; June 2021), “The Young Autistic Adult's Independence Handbook” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; November 2021), “A Freshman Survival Guide for College Students With Autism Spectrum Disorders” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; October 2014), and “Middle School — The Stuff Nobody Tells You About: A Teenage Girl With High-Functioning Autism Shares Her Experiences” (AAPC Publishing; March 2010) Her articles have appeared in outlets including the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, GQ, Bustle, Fast Company, Law 360 Pulse, and the ABA Journal.Haley earned her law degree from the University of Miami School of Law with numerous honors. Admitted to the Florida Bar in 2019, she is the recipient of awards including the American Bar Association Solo, Small Firm, and General Practice Division's Breaking Barriers Award (2021), D-30 Disability Impact List (2021), Road Less Traveled Award from Ms. JD (2020), Outstanding Self-Advocate Award from University of Miami — Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (2018), and Publix Self-Advocate of the Year from the Palm Beach County Special Needs Advisory Coalition (2018).This podcast has been approved by The Florida Bar Continuing Legal Education Department for 1.0 hour of General CLE credit including 1.0 hour of Mental Illness Awareness CLE credit. Course #6579. 

Ever heard of Puzzle Ranch? It's pretty awesome. We hope you enjoy this interview with Cameron Munoz. Cameron and her husband, Abner, own and operate a small non-profit in Sorrento, FL called Puzzle Ranch. This Wild West themed ranch is providing a safe place for families affected by Autism and other disabilities to relax and have fun for FREE! Everyone is welcome to enjoy the ranch and all it has to offer including hay rides, a petting farm, and even gem stone mining. This small non-profit has big plans for their future and needs the support of the community to continue to grow and make a positive impact on families in need. LINKS: Puzzle Ranch-Website https://www.puzzleranchflorida.com   Puzzle Ranch-Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Puzzle-Ranch-112142077592150   Puzzle Ranch-Instagram https://instagram.com/puzzleranch?igshid=ZDYzZTNjNWY=   UCF-CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disabilities) https://ucf-card.org   Fine and Danjee-Website https://www.fineanddanjee.com   Fine and Danjee-YouTube https://bit.ly/youtube-fineanddanjee   Help support ‘It's All Fine and Danjee'! https://www.patreon.com/fineanddanjee  

On this week’s new episode of the VSC Podcast VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Dr. Kimberly Spence from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at UCF and VSC Programs Director JoEllen Revell to chat about Autism and Community Safety: Stalking V. Inappropriate Social Skills. Come listen as we discuss the nuances of boundaries and relationships with regards to those with ASD, what makes those with ASD more likely to engage in stalking, and how VSC can help those who are in unhealthy relationships or suffering from stalking. Dr. Kim Spence uses she/her pronouns and has served as the Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999 and as the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources (which is a private forensic practice), since 2017. She has lectured nationally and internationally regarding treatment, specialized therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for over 20 years. JoEllen Revell uses she/her pronouns and is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight. You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1J9vFtuFgIg ----------------------------------- Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

Rachel is a radio host, model, spokesperson, and a fierce advocate for people with disabilities - particularly those with autism.A senior at University of South Florida, double majoring in English and communications, Rachel advocates for those with disabilities through her non profit, The Ability Beyond Disabilities which inspires and helps those that have challenges to strive for their dreams as well as educating those who might not understand the challenges faced.As an individual with autism, she often felt like she could not do many things. People with disabilities or anyone who is different are often targets for bullies as she was, but because of her life and social experience, she has overcome many challenges.Today Rachel is a spokesperson for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida (CARD-USF) and also on their board. She also holds board positions at Unicorn Children’s Foundation, The Els Center for Excellence, Kulture City as well as the Dyspraxia Foundation USA, all of which provide services to individuals with disabilities. Her focus is now to bring awareness to individuals and companies to provide an opportunity for employment for people on the spectrum.Rachel has performed the National Anthem at major sporting events and at Madison Square Garden. She also spoke at the United Nations on World Autism Day and recently filmed a short documentary for Sephora.She has her own segment at a radio station in New York, and is currently working on a series of fantasy novels. Rachel is also no stranger to beauty pageants, and has just be named runner up Miss Florida.Mentions:Website - https://rachelbarcellona.com/Tampa Children’s Museum - https://glazermuseum.org/Tampa History Museum - https://www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/Video - In Search Of Me - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_nvq2PgQ0oVideo - Teens With Guts - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6lLGf5kbxMSocials:Facebook - Rachel BarcellonaFacebook Page - Ability Beyond DisabilitiesInstagram - rachelbarcellonaTwitter - @barcellonaRLinkedIn - Rachel Barcellona

Dr Anita Marshall on mobility-related disabilities and her role in The International Association for Geoscience Diversity (theIAGD.org), a non-profit dedicated to creating access and inclusion for students, faculty, and professionals with disabilities in the geosciences. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/climate-scientists/message

On this episode VSC Education Coordinator Emilie Mitchell sat down with Dr. Kimberly Spence from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at UCF and VSC Programs Director JoEllen Revell to talk about Autism and Relationships. Come learn about Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), relationship challenges those with ASD can face, and how we can help those with ASD if they are victimized. Dr. Kim Spence has served as the Coordinator of Educational and Training Programs for the Center of Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Central Florida (UCF) since 1999 and as the Clinical Director of Autism Support Services for Specialized Treatment & Assessment Resources, a private forensic practice, since 2017. She has lectured nationally and internationally regarding treatment, specialized therapeutic intervention, and the creation of specialized sexuality education programs for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) for over 20 years. JoEllen Revell is the Victim Service Center Program Director who oversees the Advocacy, Therapy, and Forensic Nursing Department. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years’ experience in clinical and administrative oversight. You can also listen to this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/nLAQBxSusas ------------------------------------------------------------------- Trigger Warning: In this podcast we will be discussing sensitive topics such as Sexual Assault. It's important to take care of yourself while listening. Some suggestions are listening while you're in a healthy head space or knowing who you can reach out to if you become upset. Our 24/7 helpline for crisis calls based out of Central Florida is 407 500 HEAL. By contacting the National Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 you can get support and learn about your local resources. There is always someone ready to help.

Join Hannah and Rachel, joined by Jennifer Pringle, JD, Project Director for NYS TEACHS the New York State Technical and Education Assistance Center for Homeless Students who provide information, referrals, and training to schools, school districts, social service providers, parents, and others about the educational rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness.https://www.strose.edu/academics/schools/school-of-education/campus-based-professional-groups/friday-knights-program/The Friday Knights Recreation Program is a structured and supportive recreational environment for children and adolescents who need opportunities for social interaction beyond what is available through school settings or community recreation programs.https://www.albany.edu/registrar/Center_for_Autism_and_Related_Disabilities_(CARD).phpThe Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University at Albany (CARD Albany) is a university-affiliated resource center that brings research and practice together in community settings. Support the show (https://www.paypal.com/signin?forceLogin=false&returnUri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.paypal.com%2Fdonate&state=%252F%253Ftoken%253DoMZFScDWUfSeZaII_QpceWv1yil3nAdF10BTXOXsfKXxXtlMoE8rh_wU19uDOjudPczXoW%2526fromUL%253Dtrue&intent=donate&ctxId=239945121f36446fb315b0d)

My guest this week is Dr. Mark Durand, a professor of psychology at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg and author. Dr. Durand has received over $4 million in federal funding to study the nature, assessment, and treatment of behavior problems in children with disabilities. Before moving to Florida he served in a variety of leadership positions at the University at Albany, where he established the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University at Albany, SUNY. He serves on a number of editorial boards, reviews for dozens of journals, and has over 100 publications on functional communication, educational programming, and behavior therapy. Dr. Durand has authored several books on addressing behavior challenges in children, including sleep issues. Dr. Durand developed a unique treatment for severe behavior problems that is currently mandated by states across the country and is used worldwide.  In this episode, Dr. Durand and I discuss optimistic parenting strategies for parents looking for help caring for their challenging children. Dr. Durand guides the audience through research-based evidence and techniques to help parents understand how impactful their thoughts and emotions are when parenting. Using his tools, parents learn to disrupt their negative thoughts and create positive ones geared to their needs and the needs of their children.  Where to learn more about Dr. Mark Durand ... Optimistic Parenting Book Sleep Better Book Positive Family Intervention Guide (For Professionals) Full List of Dr. Durand's Books On Amazon   Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens on... Instagram Facebook Drbeurkens.com   Need help with improving your child's behavior naturally?  My book Life Will Get Better is available for purchase, click here to learn more.  Looking for more? Check out my Blog and the Better Behavior Naturally Parent Program - a resource guide for parents who want to be more effective with improving their child's behavior.  Interested in becoming a patient? Contact us here.

EPISODE 21: AUTISM & FITNESS “Tailoring Exercise Programs to Match Needs”    INTRO: It’s widely known that physical fitness and exercise lead to better physical health, but it’s less widely known that there are both mental and behavioral benefits as well. Experts have proven that consistent exercise improves concentration, attention, organizational skills, which leads to a reduction in problem behaviors.   Today’s episode features Mark Fleming, founder of Puzzle Piece Fitness. He was diagnosed at the age of 3 with PDD-NOS, then formally diagnosed with autism at the age of 11. His “special interest” growing up was sports. He constantly heard how he was able to read the box scores in the paper before he could even read. He also had fine motor skill deficits that prevented him from playing the sports he loved so much, but he had something greater - parents that not only allowed him to play, but pushed him to play. After graduating with his Bachelors and Masters from the University of Alabama, he set a goal of using functional training with individuals in the autism community. He not only incorporates strength and cardiovascular training, but also incorporates exercises that help with motor planning and social skills. He wants to be a person that these individuals can turn to, so they can see they are not alone or helpless in this weird world we live in.   ABOUT PUZZLE PIECE FITNESS: Mark founded Puzzle Piece Fitness, LLC as a means to improve the quality and quantity of the lives of individuals on the Autism Spectrum and Related Disabilities. Growing up his "special interest" was sports. He constantly heard how he was able to read the box scores in the paper before I could even read. However, he also had numerous fine motor skill deficits that prevented him from playing the sports he loved so much, but thankfully had parents that not only allowed him to play but pushed him to play. He was never able to realize his dream of playing sports professionally, but was able to find a new love of fitness in college. After receiving the majority of his education towards a Masters degree in Exercise Science, he was given an opportunity to work as a behavior assistant with an applied behavior analysis company working with individuals with Autism. Through his encounters while working in this field plus the encounters he had through volunteering and coaching in Special Olympics he noticed two startling trends. The first is that outside of school physical education, many individuals with Autism have very few opportunities to stay active and healthy. The second is that physical and occupational therapies provide great opportunities for this population in terms of being physically active, however, the therapies usually only cover obvious deficits and services are stopped once those deficits are corrected or the individual ages out of the school system. He continued to see individuals with little opportunity to stay active and even fewer opportunities for them to receive proper instruction of correct movement and form. After realizing that he could help provide these opportunities, he reached out and learned from the few others in the country that have been exercise training these individuals for years. After learning as much as he could, he decided to start a business providing personal exercise sessions for this population.  ​ Puzzle Piece Fitness LLC, is a personal training service. He does not consider this to be a typical Autism or Related Disabilities kind of therapy. Exercise is a therapy that everybody in life should participate in and is life long and thus there are no "graduation" achievement milestones. His goal is to use some functional training with these individuals that not only incorporates strength and cardiovascular training, but also incorporating some things within the exercise that can help motor planning, improvement of social skills, and possibly increase cognitive functioning. He wants to be a person that these individuals can turn to, so they can see they are not alone or helpless in this weird world we live in.    CONCLUSION: Children on the autism spectrum are still children! They can play catch, swim, play, run, just like their neurotypical friends. Perhaps they need to be taught in an “adapted” way. Break down complex motor skills into small tasks and teach them step-by-step. Perhaps adjust the rules of a game as necessary if they are struggling to remember them. It’s absolutely imperative that every individual, regardless of ability or age, have access to exercise programs that are tailored to their needs. Thanks so much for joining me today and for being a part of My Autism Tribe. I’ll see you next week!   ASSOCIATED LINKS: Puzzle Piece Fitness (website) - https://www.puzzlefit.com/ Puzzle Piece Fitness (Facebook) - https://www.facebook.com/puzzlepiecefitness Puzzle Piece Fitness (Instagram) - https://www.instagram.com/puzzlepiecefitness/ Puzzle Piece Fitness (LinkedIn) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fleming-23a2115a/?trk=hp-identity-name  

EPISODE 13: One of the most important missions of My Autism Tribe is to celebrate and empower the amazing individuals that are on the autism spectrum. There are so many! One of these amazingly gifted individuals is Rachel Barcellona. She is Miss Florida 2018 National American Miss (NAM) and was Miss Florida International 2016. Her platform “Ability Beyond Disabilities” inspires those that have challenges to strive for their dreams as well as to educate those who might not understand the challenges she, and others on the spectrum, face.   FROM RACHEL: I am an advocate for those with disabilities. I created my platform, The Ability beyond Disabilities, to inspire those that have challenges to strive for their dreams as well as to educate those who might not understand the challenges we face. As an individual with autism, I often felt like I could not do anything. People with disabilities or anyone who is different are often targets for bullies as I was, but because of my life and social experience, I have overcome many challenges. Today I am the International Spokesperson for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of Florida (CARD-USF), and was recently elected to their executive board of directors. I was also named the Ambassador for the Unicorn Children’s Foundation and work closely with this international organization to help people with neurodiversity. I am a member of the International Thespian Honor Society, an honor student and vocalist and love to sing opera. I have been able to single at Madison Square Gardens twice. I have a passion for art and writing and am currently finishing my first book and will work to get it published when its finished. I also work with several organizations that provide services to individuals with disabilities including therapy such as occupational and physical along with music and art therapy and have made over 300 appearances with my international title. My plan for the future is to graduate from the University of South Florida and one day open my own school for children with disabilities. I also wanted to share some of the things that happened while I was growing up. I just turned 22 years old but starting in preschool and elementary school things were much different. I was diagnosed with Autism along with dyspraxia and later diagnosed with dyscalculia, and epilepsy. I can remember not being able to put enough pressure on a crayon to make a mark on a paper! Buttons zippers and snaps were a nightmare! It was very difficult to hold objects and jump and skip. I went through several years of physical therapy, speech and language therapy and occupational therapy, which helped a lot. I still however cannot ride a bike, although, I haven’t tried a 3 wheeler, and I am not able to drive. I passed my learners permit for driving but because of epilepsy and seizures I cannot get my license… yet! Hopefully one day but if not there are several ways to learn to get around. I joke with my parents that I am waiting for the Google car that drives itself! Dyscalculia became an issue as math became harder. I am not going to lie it was exhausting getting through higher level math and took all the help I could get from teachers tutors etc. I am so happy to tell you I have finished my college math courses and will definitely not become an engineer. I am pursuing a career in writing English and vocal studies and love to sing opera.    CONCLUSION: Education is so important, and what better way to be educated than through the voices of individuals like Rachel. It’s so powerful to hear their strength and their passion. Thanks to everyone in My Autism Tribe, today and always.

Guys!! I was invited to present recently at a Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at Florida Atlantic University's Career Day, and it was wonderful. One of my career goals is public speaking, and this was my first dive into it. I was such impressive company--other presenters including an environmentalist, event planner, comic book illustrator, creator of an online social community for the disabled, and a police officer. So, THANK YOU to Mr. Darius Murray, CARD's Clinical Mentoring Associate, for having me. It was such an epic honor!! But, I only got to talk for about 10 minutes (and, you guys know I can TALK!). Since I really had to rush through my story and its lessons, I decided to flesh out a whole solocast for you. On this episode, I share how and why I changed my career, the journey I took to get to where I am (so far), and some advice on how to do the same yourself. (Hint: It involves a LOT of hard work!) I have included my actual Career Day Powerpoint presentation as a bonus download, in case you want to check that out as well. And, there are so many opportunities to positively and powerfully /impact youth with autism. Reach out to Darius by phone at 561-213-6936 or by email at dmurra23@fau.edu. Or, head to Autism.FAU.edu. Mentioned in this episode: #1 - RADIO - Kevin Rolston of the KVJ Show - 2014-10-15: http://curvethecube.libsyn.com/1-radio-kevin-rolston-of-the-kvj-show-2014-10-15 #75 – NON-PROFIT – Darius Murray - 2016-05-03: http://curvethecube.libsyn.com/75-non-profit-darius-murray-2016-05-03 #100 – ENTERTAINER – Tami Stronach - 2016-10-28: http://curvethecube.libsyn.com/100-entertainer-tami-stronach-2016-10-28 (Have feedback? Please email me at CurveTheCube@gmail.com.) Remember to find you passion and do your thing with the Curve the Cube podcast!! Follow the CARD program on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Follow the iRise Mentor program on: Twitter This episode of Curve the Cube is sponsored by my brother, Gerard! Under his company, GL Esquire Consulting, he gives sound legal business advice. If you either want to start your own business or need some guidance regarding the business you own or work for, give him a call! A Harvard and Columbia Law graduate, he’s worked for some of the world’s largest, most prestigious law firms (even at Johnny Cochran’s distinguished firm). He’s worked with clients in a variety of industries, including financial services, agriculture, music production, fashion, and technology, and he’s happy to bring that expertise to helping you and your business needs. When you’re Gerard’s client, he’ll not only be your lawyer, but also your trusted consultant and friend. His initial consultations are always free; but, if you mention Curve the Cube, he’ll offer you his “friends and family” rates!! Reach him at (786) 531-9834, gerard@glesqconsulting.com, or his Facebook page, GL Esquire Consulting, LLC. Twitter | Facebook Enjoy!! Music Beds courtesy of DJ John Hitta!!! To stay up on the latest with my guests, follow Curve the Cube on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | SnapChat (@CurveTheCube) | Tumblr | Pinterest | YouTube Copyright Flint Stone Media, LLC 2016.

My 75th episode was spent in the delightful company of Mr. Darius Murray, Clinical Mentoring Associate for FAU‘s CARD, or Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. His passion for helping the most vulnerable in our community was obvious from the start—particularly when he talks about CARD’s iRise2 Mentoring program, which pairs young protégés (ages 11-21 or 22) with mentors from all walks of life. We discuss what the autism spectrum is, particular challenges, the rising statistics, vaccines, and more. Darius has spent his life giving to others, having worked his way through the Homeless Coalition of Palm Beach County, AmeriCorps, and Big Brothers Big Sisters previously. So, he definitely had a lot to share with me about the importance of volunteerism generally. Mostly, though, we talk about the iRise2 mentoring program. He is very clear that ANYONE can be a mentor (after passing a background check, of course!), and that current mentors come from all kinds of backgrounds, skillsets, and interests. And, if the mentor program is not quite someone’s cup of tea, there are so many other opportunities to positively and powerfully /impact youth with autism. Reach out to Darius by phone at 561-213-6936 or by email at dmurra23@fau.edu. Or, head to Autism.FAU.edu. Follow Darius on: Instagram Follow the CARD program on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube Follow the iRise Mentor program on: Twitter This episode of Curve the Cube is sponsored by the Janice Massey Salon from episode #27! The Janice Massey Salon is a boutique-inspired hair studio and the only one of its kind in West Palm Beach! Janice Massey Salon specializes in natural hair, transitional hair care, and creative styling. Janice provides superb service to unisex clients base in a friendly environment. Her studio offers a wide range of natural hair service which includes: loc grooming, loc styling, retwists, starter locs, double twist, single twist, and natural updos. Instagram | Twitter | Facebook Enjoy!! Music Beds courtesy of DJ John Hitta!!! Follow Curve the Cube on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Tumblr | Pinterest | YouTube Copyright Flint Stone Media, LLC 2016.