エピソード

  • Happy 4th of July! | Honoring Our Heroes and Holding On to Hope
    2025/07/04

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. In this special 4th of July episode, I take you behind the scenes of our small-town festival—an old-school ox roast that’s been going strong for 50 years. I talk about the thousands of pounds of meat we cook, the work our fire department puts in, and the joy it brings to our community. But more than that, I open up about how this tradition helped me move through grief, find purpose again, and stay connected to the people I love—even when times are hard.

    You’ll hear a little about how I joined the fire department after the loss of my best friend, and how the festival became a healing place for me. I also share some powerful updates on Wyatt—how chiropractic care is helping him, and the small victories we’re seeing that mean the world.

    If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, I hope this episode reminds you that something beautiful can come from the hardest things. And that even if you can’t be in a crowd this weekend, you can still make memories—whether it’s watching fireworks from your car or starting a backyard water fight with the kids. Simple joy is still joy.

    Key Takeaways
    • Small town traditions matter. They create space for healing, community, and legacy.
    • Hardship can lead to purpose. My journey from grief to joining the fire department is proof.
    • Wyatt is progressing! From riding scooters to getting out of the pool calmly, we’re seeing real growth.
    • Find the joy where you are. Whether you’re lighting sparklers or pulling out a sprinkler, make it a celebration.
    • Remember what the 4th is really about. It’s more than food and fireworks—it’s about freedom and honoring those who made it possible.

    Call me old school, but I will never stop being thankful for our veterans, for our freedoms, and for every small moment with our kids. If you're in a hard season, keep going. Something good is waiting for you.

    Let’s keep showing up for our families—and for each other.

    Visit spectrumincamouflage.com
    Email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families.
    If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    19 分
  • Social Media, Screen Time, and Protecting What Matters
    2025/06/27

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I’m laying it all out on the table about social media, screen time, and the way it’s changing our lives—for better and for worse. From my own late start in the social world (shoutout to MySpace!) to the wild world of TikTok and Facebook, I talk about how we can use these tools wisely—especially as parents, caretakers, and advocates for kids with autism.

    I share what I’ve learned about the emotional toll of scrolling, the rise in anxiety and depression linked to screen time, and how easy it is to compare our behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel. I also talk about my own personal mission to use social media for good—spreading autism awareness, supporting others, and protecting Wyatt’s dignity above all.

    Plus, I get into the heart of a tradition I love: our annual Fireman's Festival and 5K for Autism here in Greenwich, Ohio. It’s one of those rare times when real life, real people, and real community show up face-to-face. And it reminds me why this matters so much.

    Key Takeaways
    • Social media is powerful—but can quickly lead to anxiety, depression, and comparison traps.
    • Face-to-face connection is still king. Get out in your community when you can.
    • Protect your kids’ dignity on social media. Especially with autism, we must be careful what we share.
    • Use social for good—share encouragement, awareness, and truth, not just polished perfection.
    • Sleep matters. Too much screen time, especially blue light before bed, messes with our nervous system and sleep quality.
    • Set boundaries: If your phone gives you chest flutters when you misplace it, it might be time to reassess your habits.
    • Get outside when you can. Especially in the summer, outdoor play and connection can be a healing reset.

    Come visit us at spectrumincamouflage.com or shoot me an email at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s help each other be strong, stay grounded, and show up with love in this fast-paced, filtered world.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families. If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    26 分
  • Feeling Off? It Might Be Dehydration | Update on Wyatt
    2025/06/20

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I’m sharing a personal update about Wyatt’s progress, including a huge milestone—four out of five nights of solid sleep! If you’re a parent of a child with special needs, you know how rare and beautiful that is. Sleep isn’t just a win for our kids—it can change the entire tone of our day.

    I also break down the link between hydration and stress, especially for parents and caretakers who are constantly on the go. Whether you're running on fumes or just trying to feel a little more like yourself, staying hydrated—and getting the right kind of salt—might be the missing piece. I talk about my experience with blood pressure spikes, stress crashes, and how small changes like adding Celtic salt and electrolytes have helped me feel stronger mentally and physically.

    You’ll hear how stress affects hydration, and how dehydration can hit back even harder, making anxiety, brain fog, and physical fatigue worse. If you're a parent doing it all (especially one raising a neurodivergent child), you're training for a marathon. So let's start treating our bodies like they matter, too.

    Key Takeaways
    • Wyatt is making progress—he’s sleeping better and showing emotional and social improvements!
    • Sleep is one of the most underrated game-changers for both kids and parents.
    • Hydration isn’t just about water; electrolytes and healthy salts, such as Celtic salt, are also essential.
    • Stress and dehydration feed each other. The more stressed you are, the more fluids you lose—and vice versa.
    • Even symptoms like anxiety, heart palpitations, and brain fog can often be traced to low hydration or electrolyte imbalance.
    • Simple daily choices—such as cutting back on caffeine or adding more salt mindfully—can help lift your mood and energy.

    Start with hydration. You might feel like a million bucks.

    Visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more.

    Have questions? Email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com. I’d love to hear from you.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families. If you have questions, ideas, or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    23 分
  • Perception and Perseverance Is What Defines Our Story
    2025/06/13

    Hey, What's Up! It's Tommy. In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I open up about two powerful words that have been on my heart lately: perception and perseverance. I reflect on how these ideas play out in our journey raising an autistic child, and how they shape the way we see ourselves, others, and the hard stuff we go through.

    I talk about how being outside helps me reset, how faith keeps me going, and why giving grace to others—even when they don’t fully understand what we’re facing—is so important. I also share real, raw moments from our life, especially the challenges we’ve been facing with Wyatt recently.

    And then there’s perseverance. Man, it’s hard. But it’s also where growth and hope live. I talk about how perseverance and failing forward go hand in hand, and why failure isn’t really failure if you keep going. Whether you're raising a special needs child, dealing with grief, or just trying to make sense of your day, I hope this episode brings you a little light.

    Key Takeaways
    • Being outside is medicine — even 15 minutes in the sun can make a huge difference.
    • Perception isn’t reality — don’t let assumptions keep you from showing up for people.
    • Grace matters — silence and presence can be more powerful than words.
    • You’re not alone — there’s a whole community here, even if we don’t all struggle the same way.
    • Perseverance = progress — pushing through hardship helps you grow, not just survive.
    • Failure is part of forward motion — as long as you're learning, you're moving.
    • Give yourself credit — parenting, especially in our world, is hard and sacred work.
    • Peace is possible — even in chaos, we can find moments of peace through faith and connection.
    Resources
    • Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell
    • 90-Day Fire Program with Steve Krebs

    If this episode meant something to you, please share it with a friend or on your social media. It helps more than you know.

    Visit spectrumincamouflage.com
    Email me anytime at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com. I’d love to hear your story or just encourage you if you're going through something tough.

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage
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    28 分
  • The Truth About Protein: What Every Autism Parent Should Know
    2025/06/06

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. In today’s episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I’m diving into something that affects all of us: protein. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply trying to feel better, understanding how protein supports both your body and your child’s health (especially for our autistic kids) is a game-changer.

    I’ll walk you through why protein is more than just gym fuel. It plays a vital role in brain function, energy levels, mood stability, and immune health. We’ll talk about real food, supplementation, picky eaters, and even the surprising connection between protein and mental health. I also get real about our family's journey—what's worked with Wyatt, what hasn't, and what might help you too.

    This isn’t medical advice—it’s real-life experience from one dad doing his best and hoping it helps someone else out there.

    Key Takeaways
    • Protein fuels more than muscle. It helps stabilize mood, sharpen focus, and protect the brain long-term—even potentially slowing cognitive decline.
    • Whole foods first. Chicken, beef, eggs, and yogurt are packed with essential amino acids, and the base of a healthy diet.
    • Busy life = quick fixes. But freezer meals and processed snacks can hurt more than help. Planning ahead with leftovers or easy meals can make a big difference.
    • Picky eating in autistic children is real. Consistency is key. Introduce protein-rich foods early and often—one bite at a time if needed.
    • Supplement when needed. If you can't hit your daily intake through food, it’s okay to lean on a high-quality protein powder—just make sure you're staying informed and intentional.
    • Protein and the brain. For both kids and adults, low protein can mean low energy, poor mood, and even issues like anxiety and weakened immunity.

    If this episode helped you or got you thinking, share it with someone who could use it. Got a question? Struggling with a picky eater? Want to know more about the protein your family needs? I’m here—reach out anytime at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com or hit me up through the site.

    Let’s support each other, keep learning, and make sure we’re all fueled up for this wild, beautiful ride.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families. If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    27 分
  • Wyatt's 10! - Big Wins, Methylene Blue, and an Awesome Memorial Day
    2025/05/30

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. I can’t believe it, but Wyatt just turned 10. This episode is full of updates about his progress, including some big wins we saw over Memorial Day weekend. I also talk more about methylene blue, what it is, why we’re being careful with it, and the small but encouraging changes we’ve noticed, especially around Wyatt’s OCD symptoms.

    You’ll hear about our family gathering, how Wyatt surprised us by lasting the entire time, and how simple moments, like watching my daughter and niece explore the old pasture, reminded me just how fast time flies and why it matters to slow down and soak it all in.

    This one’s personal, hopeful, and full of gratitude. If you’ve ever felt stuck in the day-to-day grind, waiting for a breakthrough, I hope this episode encourages you.

    Key Takeaways

    Wyatt’s Progress: He made it through a full Memorial Day family gathering without meltdowns or needing to leave early. Huge win.

    • Methylene Blue: We’re cautiously trying this supplement for possible benefits with autism and OCD symptoms. Not medical advice, just our story.
    • Hope and Faith: Even when life is uncertain, we believe God is working through it all.
    • Cherishing the Moment: Unplug, slow down, and enjoy the little things with your kids.
    • Simple Joys: Seeing my daughter and niece play in the same pasture I did as a kid brought a powerful sense of joy and nostalgia.
    • Why We Push for Health: It’s about helping Wyatt reach his best health, not changing who he is.
    • Never Give Up: Even when progress is slow, there is always hope.
    Resources
    • Maximum Potential Chiropractic
    • Book Mentioned: Chop Wood, Carry Water by Joshua Medcalf https://a.co/d/6TzTEtT
    • Experience Miracles Podcast with Dr. Tony Ebel

    If you're new here, I’d love for you to go back to some of the earlier episodes. You’ll get a better sense of where our journey started and how far we’ve come.

    Visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more episodes and resources. If something resonated with you or you want to connect, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Thanks for listening. Stay grateful, stay hopeful, and stay in the fight.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families. If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference. One step. One piece of the puzzle. One child at a time.

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    33 分
  • Wyatt's Breakthrough and Killing the Monster
    2025/05/23

    Hey, What’s Up! It’s Tommy. Today’s episode of Spectrum in Camouflage is deeply personal—and honestly, it's one of the most encouraging updates I’ve shared in a while. I open up about the real progress we’re seeing with our son Wyatt after a year of chiropractic therapy through Maximum Potential. I also talk about those subtle signs—what I call “soft signs”—that are often overlooked but mean the world when you’re raising a nonverbal autistic child. From Wyatt calmly watching me work on heavy equipment, to no longer needing locks on doors, to riding a tricycle—these moments are stacking up, and hope is growing.

    I also dive into something that’s helped me mentally as a dad, a business owner, and just a guy trying to keep it together: “killing the monsters.” If anxiety, procrastination, or mental clutter is stealing your peace, I share how I’ve been taking simple steps to reclaim space in my life so I can focus on what really matters.

    If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, alone, or unsure if the small wins even count, this episode is for you. You’re not alone. And yes—those small wins matter more than we realize.

    Key Takeaways
    • Wyatt is showing incredible progress after a year at Maximum Potential, from no longer eloping to starting to sign basic words like “more,” “mom,” and “please.”
    • A story about his sister Jessie’s honesty shows how our typical kids are growing too—and how sweet those moments can be.
    • We’ve seen real shifts in Wyatt’s nervous system regulation through chiropractic work and a parasite cleanse.
    • "Killing the monster" is my way of defeating procrastination and anxiety by clearing mental clutter and knocking out to-dos that drain my energy.
    • You don’t have to give up the things that make you feel whole. Instead, take care of what you can control.
    • Simple joys like bubble guns, campfires, and backyard play can create the peaceful summer you and your family deserve.
    Resources
    • Maximum Potential Chiropractic – Where we’ve been taking Wyatt for his therapy journey.
    • Real AF Podcast by Andy Frisella – Inspiration for the “Kill the Monster” concept.
    • Experience Miracles Podcast – The spark that helped my wife Kaylee find new hope.

    Please visit spectrumincamouflage.com for links to everything mentioned and more updates from our journey.

    If anything in this episode connected with you, or you know someone it might help, please share it. Your support truly helps others know they’re not alone.

    Let me know your thoughts or share your own story by emailing me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

    Follow Us!
    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families.

    If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    32 分
  • You Can’t Have Mental Health Without Physical Health
    2025/05/16

    Hey, What's Up! It's Tommy. In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I'm pushing myself to use some bigger words—starting with “parasympathetic nervous system”—because today, we’re digging into what stress really does to our minds and bodies.

    I get real about what it feels like to be stuck in fight-or-flight mode, especially when parenting a child with autism, juggling work, and trying to stay mentally strong. I share how a simple five-minute chiropractic adjustment helped reset my nervous system and got me back on track mentally, physically, and emotionally. We talk about why Mental Health Awareness Month matters, how showing up even when you're not at 100% is still powerful, and why mental and physical health go hand in hand.

    Plus, I shout out Maximum Potential Chiropractic in Medina—because sometimes just taking that time for yourself is what flips the switch. If you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck, this episode is for you.

    Key Takeaways

    • Mental and physical health are deeply connected. You can't fix one without addressing the other.
    • The parasympathetic nervous system (aka “rest and digest”) helps your body calm down from stress—but sometimes we need help activating it.
    • Chiropractic care helped me shift out of burnout and regain mental clarity and energy.
    • Self-care isn't selfish or silly. It's survival.
    • Running for a cause can reignite purpose and help us reconnect with meaning beyond our day-to-day.
    • You don’t need to give 100% all the time—just showing up is powerful.
    • Hydration with electrolytes can drastically impact mood, sleep, and anxiety.
    • Mental health struggles are real and you're not alone. If you're in the trenches, I'm there too—and we can help each other.

    Let’s build a village. Visit spectrumincamouflage.com to follow along, share your story, and connect with others who get it.

    Email me anytime at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com if you have a question, idea, or just need to talk.

    Together, we can support each other—one adjustment, one run, one small choice at a time.

    Follow Us!

    • We’re on TikTok: tiktok.com/@spectrum_in_camouflage
    • Join our Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/4002769846662357
    • See us on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum_in_camouflage

    Together, we can create a community to support autistic kids and their families. If you have questions or ideas or want to share your journey, email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com.

    Let’s learn, grow, and make a difference—one step, one piece of the puzzle, one child at a time.

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    29 分