When a child receives an autism diagnosis, parents often
feel overwhelmed and alone. How do we best support our kids? How do we prepare
them for the future? On this episode, we welcome Carol Waldman, a fierce parent
advocate who shares her deeply personal journey of raising her neurodiverse
son, Andrew.

Carol opens up about the initial confusion of Andrew’s
diagnosis and how she learned to navigate the education system to ensure he
received the support he needed. Her relentless advocacy paid off, helping
Andrew go away to college and successfully graduate. Now, Carol is on a mission
to inspire other families so they know they do not have to walk this path
alone. We also dive into her political advocacy for neurodiversity training in
the workplace and the crucial transition into adulthood for neurodiverse individuals.

Key Discussion Points:

• The
  Early Days: Carol shares her story of raising Andrew, the emotions
  surrounding his initial autism diagnosis, and learning to let go of
  preconceived parenting expectations.

• Fierce
  Advocacy: Why advocating for neurodiverse children and adults is
  absolutely critical, and how Carol navigated the education system to get
  Andrew the right support.

• The
  College Milestone: The steps and support systems that helped Andrew go
  away to college and achieve his goal of graduating.

• Life
  After 18: Exploring the massive need for more guidance and support to
  help young adults find friends, communities, and like-minded people after
  high school.

• Career
  Transitions: How we can better help young adults transition into
  meaningful jobs and careers that tie directly to their passions.

• Changing
  the Workplace: Carol discusses her political involvement and her
  passionate advocacy for neurodiversity training in corporate environments.

Resources Mentioned:

• Carol is currently writing a book about her journey
  raising Andrew—stay tuned for updates on its release!

·
Phone
Number: (310) 779-8298

·
E-mail: cnwaldman@gmail.com

• Connect with Carol on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-waldman

• Follow Carol on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carol.n.waldman

• Connect on Instagram: https://instagram.com/carol.n.waldman

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