In this episode, we kick off our Sibling Series with a special guest — Todd Jensen. Todd is Alec's senior by three years. He grew up in Japan, Denmark and Texas. Todd holds a B.S. of Accounting from Brigham Young University - Utah. Following college, Todd has pursued a career in speciality finance in Texas while maintaining a few entrepreneurial real estate ventures on the side. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, smoking meat, riding dirt-bikes (much to Christi's dismay), playing RuneScape and bugging the living heck out of Alec! Todd shares his unique perspective on what it was like growing up with a sibling on the autism spectrum — the challenges, the lessons, and the moments that shaped their bond.

From early memories to the realities of sharing family attention and adapting to Alec’s needs, Todd’s honest reflection sheds light on how autism impacts not just the individual, but the entire family. We talk about what he learned along the way, how his relationship with Alec has evolved, and what advice he has for other siblings navigating similar experiences.

It’s a heartfelt, insightful look at family life, understanding, and the lasting love that comes from growing up piece by piece alongside autism.

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Mel Robbins may have her “Let Them” theory — but when it comes to sensory and stimulatory behaviors that interfere with learning and growth, we’ve developed our own version: “Don’t Let Them.”

In this episode, we unpack the overlap between sensory and stimulatory (stimming) behaviors — how they can look similar on the surface, but often serve different purposes. We talk about how sensory behaviors are often the body’s way of seeking or avoiding input, while stimulatory behaviors can be self-soothing or a form of communication. Understanding these differences is key to knowing when to allow, when to redirect, and how to use each moment as an opportunity for growth.

Through stories from Alec’s journey and years of experience, we discuss how gently addressing certain sensory or stimming behaviors early on can open doors for learning, social participation, and independence later in life.

It’s all about balance — supporting regulation and self-expression while also creating pathways for progress. With the right approach, “don’t let them” doesn’t mean stop them — it means guide them toward what’s next.

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In this episode, we sit down with one of Alec’s very first team members, Trout — someone who came to us with no formal ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) training but an open heart and a willingness to learn.

We share stories from those early days, the training process, and the meaningful impact that comes from hands-on learning and genuine connection. From memorable moments with Alec to the life lessons gained through supporting someone on the autism spectrum, this conversation is full of insight, laughter, and heart.

It’s a reminder that sometimes the best team members aren’t those with the most experience, but those who are teachable, compassionate, and dedicated to helping others grow — piece by piece. 💙

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Alec is now 28 years old and living in what we lovingly call his golden years. It’s been a long road filled with lessons, challenges, and so much growth, and we’re here to share the journey — every piece of it. We take a chance to share who we are, why we started Piece by Piece, and what continues to inspire us.

Through years of learning, trial and error, and a whole lot of love, we’ve seen firsthand what’s possible for individuals on the autism spectrum. Alec’s success didn’t happen overnight, but with the right tools, structure, and support, families who are still in the trenches can find hope and see similar outcomes.

While we are still learning and growing in all things autism, we are experts when it comes to Alec — his upbringing, his development, and the experiences that shaped who he is today. Our goal is to share what worked for us in hopes that it can help you, too.

We’re so glad you’re here — learning, growing, and walking this journey with us, piece by piece. 💙

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Life with autism often comes with serious moments—hard days, big emotions, and challenges that can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we open up about some of the most difficult times we’ve faced with Alec and the weight that comes with parenting a child on the autism spectrum. But it’s not all heavy—we also share how finding a supportive community and remembering to laugh has helped us stay positive along the way. Parenting a child with autism is a marathon, not a sprint, and sometimes joy and humor are the tools that get you through.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who wants to better understand the autism journey, we hope this conversation reminds you that even in serious times, laughter is essential.

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In this special episode, we sit down with Alec’s very first therapist, Jill Scarbro—affectionately known as “Big Deal Jill!” Jill has provided Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services to individuals with autism since 1997. She earned a bachelor’s degree in special education with concentrations in mental impairments and physical handicaps from Marshall University and a Master of Science in behavior analysis from the University of North Texas. After operating a consulting practice in Texas, Jill and her daughter Caroline returned home to West Virginia in 2006, making Jill the first Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in southern West Virginia. She opened Bright Futures Learning Services, one of the state's first ABA centers, in 2017. BrightFuturesAba.com

As a founding member, and current Vice President of Mountaineer Autism Project, Jill worked to pass autism insurance legislation and continues to work towards systems changes to increase access to quality ABA in WV. Jill is a founding member and past president of the West Virginia Behavior Analysis Association, founder of Community Autism Resources and Education Systems (CARES), and a member of the inaugural class of the WV Healthcare Hall of Fame. Jill was named WV Woman Owned Business of the year in 2019, and the national Small Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2022. WVCaresForAutism.org

Together, we reminisce about Alec’s early therapy days, reflect on the impact ABA had in shaping his skills and independence, and talk with Jill about the progress—and challenges—she’s seen in the autism community over her impressive 28 years of work with individuals on the spectrum.

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Doing the Most (and Still Feeling Like It’s Not Enough)
In this episode, Christi opens up about what it was like to pour her heart and soul into Alec’s therapies and programming—doing everything she could to give him the best start possible—yet still feeling like it wasn’t enough.

We share the honest truth that this journey can feel overwhelming, but it’s not about racing to a finish line. It’s a marathon, not a sprint. Along the way, we talk about the importance of celebrating the little victories, enjoying the small moments, and giving yourself credit for the progress your child makes—because those wins matter.

Our hope is that other parents listening will feel inspired, encouraged, and reminded that they’re doing better than they think.

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In this follow-up conversation, Angie Matheney and Christi Jensen talk about what it takes to not just land a job, but to keep it and succeed in the workplace. We share strategies that have helped Alec, from setting up routines and systems of support, to teaching the importance of punctuality, appropriate dress, and workplace communication. We also talk about how to build natural supports at work, use visual schedules, and how the environment can be the teacher, if you let it.

There will be challenges too—like dealing with sensory environments, co-worker interactions, and learning the rhythm of a new job. Power through the challenges because it is so rewarding to see the confidence and pride that comes when individuals with autism find their place in the workforce. They too, can be contributing members of society.

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