Talk To Me Sis

In this episode, Layla Luna, founder of Just Bee, shares her journey as a mother of a non-verbal son with autism. She discusses the challenges faced by families in the autism community, the importance of awareness and acceptance, and her mission to create a more inclusive society through her nonprofit organization. Layla highlights the significance of Rio's Law, which aims to train first responders in understanding autism, and the impact of creating autism-friendly environments in communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the power of community support in advocating for individuals on the spectrum.GuestLayla Lunahttps://www.justbeethechange.com/Hosts:Lise SmithTikTok: @connorsmom4514Instagram: @connorsmom_liseYouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114Nicci SmithTikTok: @nicci_tannersmomInstagram: @nicci_smith6Sponsored by MerchLabs.com

In a vibrant discussion, Shalini Solomon, a board-certified behavior analyst specializing in autism and sexual education, shares insights on empowering neurodivergent individuals. She emphasizes starting sexual education early and using visual aids for effective learning. Common misconceptions are addressed, debunking the myth that neurodivergent people can't understand these topics. Shalini also discusses the importance of open communication about consent, safety, and navigating puberty, urging parents to break cycles of shame and foster a safe environment for exploration and learning.

In this engaging conversation, Connor Tomlinson flips the script and interviews his mom, Lise. They reminisce about Connor's chaotic birth and Lise's adventures in her twenties. With humor, they share childhood embarrassments and Connor’s early work insights. Lise reflects on important life lessons and parenting challenges. The duo passionately discusses favorite Christmas movies and even celebrity crushes! This heartwarming banter captures family dynamics while highlighting Connor's growth, creativity, and cherished memories.

The hosts buzz with excitement about their upcoming Hawaii trip, planning adventures like surfing and zip-lining. They share lighthearted stories from their layover in Seattle and tease a special advocate guest for December. Engaging with their listeners, they read heartfelt messages about navigating autism and the transition to adulthood. They also discuss important police training initiatives to raise autism awareness, all while keeping the tone fun and relatable with family anecdotes and travel humor.

The hosts share insights from their recent Houston trip, highlighting inspiring women in the special needs community. They discuss parenting lessons learned while encouraging independence in their kids during travel. There's a heartfelt tribute to support systems for grieving parents and advocacy for rare diseases. Exciting upcoming speaking engagements and a trip to Hawaii are on the horizon, along with plans for vlogs. The episode also explores career risks for family priorities and the importance of community and gratitude.

A recent autism press conference sparked mixed reactions, highlighting the importance of representation in storytelling. The hosts discuss what true community means and how small acts of support can create bonds. They engage with listeners through personal stories, including a single mom's journey and tips for helping neurodivergent travelers. The episode emphasizes the value of compassionate dialogue and the need for community education, with a focus on supporting initiatives like sensory-friendly events.

The hosts reflect on their experiences during Emmy week, balancing celebration with global challenges. They discuss their neurodivergent children, Connor and Tanner, highlighting their unique ways of processing emotions. Insightful parenting strategies are shared, emphasizing empathy and preparedness. Memorable celebrity encounters add fun to the mix, along with practical tips for families. Listeners enjoy a glimpse into the hosts' lives and a live Q&A, making for a lively and heartfelt conversation.

Eileen Lamb, Senior Director of Social Media and Marketing at Autism Speaks and a mom of three, including two on the autism spectrum, shares her remarkable journey. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood and marriage while advocating for autism awareness. Eileen highlights the importance of community support and self-care for caregivers. She also aspires to create books and documentaries to showcase the experiences of families with autism, emphasizing unity and collaboration within the autism community.

Rob Gorski, known as The Autism Dad, shares his transformative journey of parenting three sons with autism. He discusses the emotional challenges and triumphs of raising children on the spectrum, emphasizing the importance of self-care and community support for parents. Rob reflects on his evolution from a caregiver to a supporter of the autism community, highlighting the need for understanding and connection. His insights illustrate the power of presence and the joys of meaningful family moments, showcasing the significance of shared experiences in the autism journey.

Madison Marilla, a star of Love on the Spectrum and owner of Madizen USA, shares her inspiring journey of growth and acceptance. She discusses the importance of supportive adults in her life and how they've shaped her path, especially in navigating college and young adulthood with autism. The conversation includes insights into her handmade jewelry business, the dynamic of sibling collaboration, and the value of constructive criticism. Madison's passion for spreading joy through her designs shines through as she emphasizes the power of community and connection.