Labeled and Loved: A Lifeline for Moms of Kids with Disabilities (S8E26)

Parenting a child with disabilities often means putting your own needs last. But when you’re running on empty, burnout can take over and everyone feels the impact. In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I talk with Dr. Regina Crone and Julie Hornok, co-founders of Labeled and Loved, an organization devoted to supporting moms raising kids with disabilities.

Fresh off their appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Regina and Julie share their personal journeys, how burnout affects moms, and why community, connection, and self-care aren’t luxuries they’re essential for survival. Whether you’re navigating autism parenting, raising a child with ADHD, or managing complex medical needs, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling seen, understood, and supported.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The personal stories that inspired Regina and Julie to create Labeled and Loved

• The unique challenges and burnout risks for moms raising kids with disabilities

• How to rebuild community when isolation takes over

• The importance of celebrating small wins that others might not understand

• How Labeled and Loved retreats give moms a space to rest, connect, and recharge

• Tips for finding ongoing support through local and virtual “Sisterhood Circles”

• Why self-care is not selfish when you’re parenting a child with disabilities

• How to take the first brave step toward prioritizing your own wellbeing

Learn More About Labeled and Loved:

Website: https://labeledandloved.org

Upcoming Retreat: October 10 - 12, Dallas, TX (Registration closes September 10)

About Rob Gorski

Rob Gorski is an autism parenting advocate, award-winning blogger, and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. A single father to three autistic children, Rob uses his personal journey to educate, validate, and offer practical support to parents raising neurodivergent kids. His work has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more. Learn more at https://theautismdad.com.

About Dr. Regina Crone

Dr. Regina Crone is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a lifelong connection to the disability community through her younger brother’s autism diagnosis. She co-founded Labeled and Loved to create the community her family never had, offering retreats, events, and ongoing support for moms raising kids with disabilities.

About Julie Hornok

Julie Hornok is a speaker, author, and advocate whose daughter was diagnosed with autism shortly after her second birthday. After experiencing the isolation and burnout so many moms of children with disabilities face, she co-founded Labeled and Loved to provide connection, encouragement, and resources for mothers nationwide.

Sponsors:

• REM Ohio: Caring for an adult with developmental disabilities can be overwhelming. REM Ohio’s Shared Living program lets you become a paid caregiver for your loved one, with added support through day programs and group homes. Not caring for a loved one? You can still make a difference as a non-family provider. Part of the Sevita Health network. Learn more at rem-oh.com or call 1-330-644-9730.

• Mightier: Helping kids learn self-regulation through fun, clinically proven games. Visit mightier.com for more info.

Listen & Subscribe

Official Website: listen.theautismdad.com