What happens when a military mom raises a neurodivergent daughter who thrives in dance despite challenges like autism and dyslexia?

In this episode of The Autism Round Table, host Leah Gross welcomes Amanda and her daughter Leta for a conversation full of laughter, insight, and inspiration.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• How can parents support the unique talents of neurodivergent children?
• What challenges arise when raising an autistic child in a military family?
• How does dyslexia intersect with autism and affect creative expression?
• What role do structure, advocacy, and pets play in a neurodivergent child’s development?

Summary of the Conversation:

Amanda, a dedicated military mom, shares her experience raising Leta, a vibrant and talented young dancer on the autism spectrum. The conversation dives into topics such as stimming behaviors, the impact of dyslexia on Leta’s dancing, and the ways the military lifestyle has shaped their support system. Amanda encourages parents to celebrate their child’s unique talents while offering grounded advice drawn from her own journey. Leta joins the conversation with humor and honesty, giving listeners a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a neurodivergent teenager.

About The Guest:

Amanda is a military spouse and passionate advocate for her daughter Leta, who is both autistic and dyslexic. Amanda shares practical tips and encouragement from her years navigating military life and supporting Leta’s personal and creative growth. Leta, a gifted dancer, brings her voice to the episode, showing the joy and individuality that defines her journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace your child's interests—they can become powerful tools for connection and growth.
• A structured environment can help neurodivergent children feel secure and thrive.
• Dyslexia doesn’t have to be a limitation—it can coexist with artistic talent.
• Military communities often offer unique resources and support for families with special needs.
• Let your child be part of the conversation—they have wisdom and perspective to share.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Amanda’s background and journey into autism advocacy

02:06 – Encouraging Leta’s talent in dance

11:22 – Understanding and managing stimming

14:49 – Advice for parents raising children on the spectrum

27:54 – Navigating autism within a military family

42:02 – How dyslexia affects Leta’s dance experience

55:00 – The healing and supportive role of pets

Ready to feel inspired and better equipped to support the neurodivergent children in your life?

Tune in to the full episode for heartfelt stories, expert advice, and practical encouragement.

What does true support for both parents and children in the autism community look like?

In this episode of The Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross is joined by occupational therapist JoAnna Poyssick, who shares her holistic approach to supporting families.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is the Skyrocket Success coaching program, and how does it support parents?
• Why is self-care essential for parents of children with autism?
• How can parents better understand and support their child's sensory needs?
• What role do gross and fine motor skills play in a child’s development?
• How can occupational therapy help families thrive together?

Summary of the Conversation:

JoAnna Poyssick brings a refreshing and compassionate lens to supporting families navigating autism. She outlines how her Skyrocket Success program combines coaching, education, and community to empower parents. JoAnna emphasizes that parent well-being directly influences a child’s progress and shares actionable advice on sensory processing, executive functioning, and skill-building. Her approach centers on acceptance, empathy, and celebrating strengths, making this a must-listen episode for caregivers and professionals alike.

About the Guest:

JoAnna Poyssick is an experienced occupational therapist who specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum. Through her virtual and in-person coaching programs, she helps parents develop the tools, mindset, and routines they need to support their child’s growth while taking care of their own well-being.

Key Takeaways:

1. Parent self-care is foundational to supporting a child with autism.
2. Acceptance and mindset shifts can radically improve the family dynamic.
3. Sensory challenges require individualized strategies and patience.
4. Executive functioning and motor skills are essential for independence.
5. A strength-based approach builds confidence in both children and parents.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Joanna’s work with children on the autism spectrum

01:53 – Skyrocket Success: A parenting coaching program

03:21 – The importance of self-care for parents

04:27 – Finding support and building community

09:10 – Acceptance as a foundation for parenting

12:01 – A deeper look at the Skyrocket Success structure

16:42 – The role of occupational therapy in family life

19:41 – Creating healthy sleep routines

23:16 – Supporting children’s social and leisure activities

26:12 – Understanding sensory processing challenges

28:05 – Meeting each child’s unique sensory needs

29:31 – Modeling calm behavior for emotional regulation

30:17 – Helping children manage emotions

32:16 – The importance of gross motor development

35:16 – Encouraging self-care skills in children

38:54 – Fine motor development and executive functioning

46:27 – Addressing parental guilt and fostering acceptance

Links for the Guest:

Connect with JoAnna Poyssick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-poyssick-skyrocketsuccess/

Visit JoAnna’s website: https://www.sensationalstudentsot.com/

Call to Action:

Ready to support your child’s growth while taking care of yourself?

Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and heartfelt insights from JoAnna Poyssick.

What happens when a father, once distant, decides to turn his personal story into a mission of advocacy and change?

In this episode, Jamiel Owens shares his deeply moving journey—from navigating his son’s autism diagnosis to becoming a powerful voice in the autism community. Through personal challenges, professional growth, and community activism, Jamiel illustrates what it means to show up, speak out, and build lasting impact.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What was Jamiel’s turning point after his son’s autism diagnosis?
• How do fathers play a vital role in a child’s autism journey?
• What unique challenges does the Black community face in autism awareness and support?
• How can families prepare children with autism for emergency interactions, including with law enforcement?
• What does true advocacy look like in action?

Summary:

Jamiel Owens opens up about the early difficulties of accepting his son Shane’s autism diagnosis and his initial absence during that critical time. With honesty and vulnerability, he shares how he chose to grow from that place and step into advocacy. As Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at CHOP and founder of Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel is making systemic change through community outreach, law enforcement training, and parent education. He offers heartfelt advice for other parents—especially fathers—encouraging them to be present, breathe, and build a team around their child. His story is one of redemption, empowerment, and passionate service.

About The Guest:

Jamiel Owens is a dedicated autism advocate, father, and community leader. As the Family Relations Coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), and founder of the nonprofit Awesomeness Incorporated, Jamiel works to build stronger support systems for families of children with autism, with a special focus on underserved communities and emergency preparedness.

Key Takeaways:

• Presence matters: Fathers have a unique and irreplaceable role in a child’s autism journey.
• Breathe and build a team: No one should parent alone—support is essential.
• Community change starts local: Jamiel’s work shows how grassroots efforts can have systemic impact.
• Emergency preparedness saves lives: Training law enforcement and first responders is crucial.
• Redemption is possible: It’s never too late to show up and make a difference.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Fatherhood and Autism: A Personal Journey

03:44 – The Importance of Fathers in Autism

06:31 – Advice for Parents: Breathing and Teamwork

12:09 – Challenges in the Black Community

16:47 – Spiritual Journey and Acceptance

19:30 – Advocacy and Community Work

23:51 – Fire Safety and Law Enforcement Training

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Jamiel Owens on LinkedIn:

Visit Awesomeness Incorporated:

Call to Action:

Inspired by Jamiel’s story?

Tune in to the full episode for a powerful reminder that showing up for your child—and your community—can spark real change.

How does a mother transform personal struggle into professional purpose?

Leah sits down with Tara Trievel — a mother, grandmother, and educator — to explore how her family's autism journey reshaped her life and career.

From late diagnoses to early interventions, Tara opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of parenting neurodivergent children and the tools that helped her thrive.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• What is it like to receive a late autism diagnosis for your child?
• How can early intervention impact an autistic child's development?
• What is social thinking, and why is it so crucial for neurodivergent kids?
• How can moms prioritize self-care without guilt?
• What does a holistic approach to parenting look like?

Summary of the Conversation:

Tara Trievel shares the deeply personal story of raising her autistic daughter, who was diagnosed later in life, and how that experience prepared her to better support her grandson's early autism diagnosis. Professionally, Tara transitioned from being a traditional educator to developing tools and strategies for neurodivergent learners. She introduces the concept of "social thinking," developed by Michelle Garcia Winner, as a critical method for helping autistic children navigate social norms. Tara also reflects on the importance of self-care, particularly for moms dealing with their own physical and emotional changes like perimenopause. Her approach is both practical and empathetic, emphasizing the need for individualized support systems and compassionate parenting.

About the Guest:

Tara Trievel is a mother, grandmother, and educator with decades of experience in teaching and supporting children with autism. Inspired by her personal journey, she now runs programs designed to empower both moms and children through social-emotional learning, perspective-taking, and holistic wellness.

Key Takeaways:

• Late diagnosis can still lead to growth and understanding — it’s never too late to support your child.
• Early intervention matters — recognizing signs of autism early can drastically improve outcomes.
• Social thinking builds essential life skills — teaching kids how others think and feel is key to social success.
• Mothers need support too — navigating autism while experiencing personal changes like perimenopause requires self-compassion and community.
• A holistic approach to parenting helps families thrive by integrating emotional health, support systems, and flexible strategies.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Welcome

00:16 – Tara's Personal Connection to Autism

01:34 – Professional Journey and Discovering Social Thinking

03:35 – Understanding Perspective Taking

07:21 – Challenges and Strategies in Parenting

13:50 – Second Chances and Learning from Experience

16:55 – Navigating Relationships and Self-Care

23:43 – Support Systems and Final Thoughts

25:18 – Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Parent

25:44 – Introducing the Parenting Program for Moms

26:01 – Understanding Perimenopause and Its Impact

28:49 – Managing Perimenopausal Symptoms

29:27 – The Importance of Holistic Wellbeing

33:05 – Social Thinking Program for Kids

36:07 – Adapting Teaching Methods for Neurodivergent Kids

43:26 – Holistic Approach to Parenting

46:44 – Encouragement for Struggling Moms

48:50 – Final Positive Message for Parents

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Tara Trievel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-trievel-m-ed-certified-autism-specialist-8b6aa589/

Visit Tara Trievel’s website: https://www.2besocial.org/

Call to Action:

Looking for inspiration and practical tools to support...

Feeding therapy can be a complex journey for parents, especially when it comes to children on the autism spectrum. In this episode, occupational therapist Dena Kelly shares her extensive experience working with children facing feeding challenges, from those with neurotypical development to those with complex medical and neurodivergent profiles. She discusses the different approaches to feeding therapy, including sensory-based and behaviorally-based methods, and the critical role of emotional stability for parents during mealtimes. Dena also emphasizes the importance of a collaborative approach, involving speech therapists, GI specialists, and nutritionists, to create a comprehensive feeding plan. Tune in to gain practical strategies, valuable insights, and the reassurance that you're not alone on this journey.

Discussion Points:

• Understanding the spectrum of feeding challenges (from neurotypical to complex medical cases)
• Behavioral versus sensory-based approaches to feeding therapy
• The importance of collaboration among medical and therapeutic professionals
• Emotional challenges for parents during the feeding journey
• Practical strategies for creating a positive mealtime environment

Summary of the Conversation:

In this insightful episode, Dena Kelly breaks down the complex world of feeding therapy for children on the autism spectrum. She explains how feeding challenges can vary widely, from common developmental delays to more severe medical and neurodevelopmental issues. Dena discusses the pros and cons of different therapeutic approaches, including sensory-based and behaviorally-based methods, and emphasizes the importance of emotional stability for both parents and children. She also highlights the value of collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, including occupational therapists, speech therapists, GI specialists, and nutritionists, to create a comprehensive and effective feeding plan. Finally, Dena offers practical tips for parents, reassuring them that they are not alone in this journey.

About The Guest:

Dena Kelly is an experienced occupational therapist specializing in feeding therapy. She has worked extensively with children on the autism spectrum, helping families navigate the challenges of feeding disorders and achieve meaningful progress. Dena’s compassionate approach focuses on empowering parents and building effective, individualized therapy plans.

Key Takeaways:

1. Feeding challenges vary widely, requiring personalized approaches.
2. Collaboration among medical and therapeutic professionals is crucial for comprehensive care.
3. Emotional stability for parents is essential for successful feeding therapy.
4. Practical strategies, like structured mealtime routines, can make a significant difference.
5. Parents are not alone – support and resources are available.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and Guest Background

01:57 Types of Feeding Challenges

04:34 Developmental Feeding Issues

05:57 Behavioral Strategies for Feeding

21:14 Medical Considerations in Feeding

26:29 Feeding Therapy Approaches

39:45 The Importance of Broccoli in Feeding

40:13 Professionals in the Feeding Space

40:46 Occupational Therapy and Feeding

42:41 Speech Therapy and Feeding

43:12 Personal Experiences with Feeding Challenges

44:21 Feeding as a Training Process

45:50 Other Medical Professionals in Feeding

47:20 Emotional Challenges in Feeding

49:27 Tips for Parents to Stay Calm

54:38 Overview of the Feeding Therapy Program

59:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Parents

01:00:35 Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Dena Kelly on LinkedIn: [LinkedIn...

What happens when your professional path and personal journey collide in the most unexpected way?

In this episode of Autism Roundtable, Taylor Martinez shares how working as a child therapist led her into the autism community — and how her daughter’s diagnosis reshaped her life, both personally and professionally.

Discussion Points:

• Taylor’s unexpected introduction to the autism community through her career
• Navigating her daughter’s autism and PICA diagnosis
• Balancing life as an RBT trainer and a parent
• Using ABA strategies with her own children
• The role of holistic health practices in her family’s journey

Summary:

Taylor Martinez opens up about her dual role as a professional in the autism field and as a parent of a child with autism.

She describes how her daughter’s diagnosis of autism and PICA changed her approach to parenting and professional practice.

Taylor integrates ABA techniques into her home life and explores holistic methods like magnesium lotion and essential oils to help with regulation and stress. She highlights the importance of focusing on small wins, maintaining emotional resilience, and leaning on community support to thrive as a family navigating both neurotypical and neurodiverse needs.

About The Guest:

Taylor Martinez is a dedicated RBT trainer and mother of a child with autism. Her unique perspective as both a professional and parent allows her to share relatable, actionable insights for families walking a similar path.

She is passionate about blending evidence-based practices with holistic living to support overall well-being.

Key Takeaways:

• ABA techniques can be successfully integrated into everyday parenting.
• Holistic tools may offer complementary support for children with sensory and behavioral challenges.
• Parenting a child with autism requires flexibility, empathy, and a focus on small victories.
• Professional experience in ABA can deepen a parent’s understanding but also comes with emotional complexities.
• Community support is crucial for maintaining resilience and growth.

Time Stamps:

00:00- Taylor's Journey into the Autism Community

02:11 – Balancing Parenting and Professional Life

04:26 – Understanding PICA and Holistic Approaches

08:45 – Implementing ABA Concepts at Home

13:50 – Managing Stress and Parenting Challenges

17:37 – The Impact of Holistic Living

25:27 – Support Systems and Community

29:42 – Overcoming Personal Health Challenges

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Taylor Martinez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apexbehaviorconsulting/

Visit Taylor's website: https://www.apexbehavior.com/

Raising a child with autism is a journey filled with challenges and growth.

Tune in to the full episode to hear Taylor’s inspiring story and discover practical tips for thriving as both a parent and professional.

How do you recognize the early signs of autism—and what should you do next? In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Poulos, a pediatric psychologist with deep expertise in developmental assessments for young children, walks us through the process of early autism diagnosis. Whether you're a parent concerned about developmental delays or a professional supporting families, this conversation provides clarity, empathy, and practical guidance for navigating the early years.

Discussion Points:

• Recognizing developmental differences in young children
• The importance of early and comprehensive evaluations
• Navigating insurance and choosing the right providers
• Emotional impact on families and practical next steps
• Creating individualized therapy plans and monitoring progress
• Employment and long-term outlooks for neurodivergent individuals

Summary of the Conversation:

Dr. Jennifer Poulos shares her expert perspective on identifying and diagnosing autism in children aged 0–5. She outlines the typical developmental milestones, when to raise concerns, and how to start the evaluation process. Dr. Poulos explains the nuances of comprehensive assessments, the role of early intervention, and how therapy should be tailored to each child’s unique strengths and challenges. She also provides emotional guidance for families, offering a hopeful and empowering view of what comes after a diagnosis, including support networks and long-term opportunities for individuals on the spectrum.

About The Guest:

Dr. Jennifer Poulos is a pediatric psychologist who specializes in early childhood developmental assessments. Her work focuses on helping families identify and address neurodevelopmental differences in the earliest years, setting children up for the most effective interventions and long-term success.

Key Takeaways:

• Early signs of autism often appear before age 3—trust your instincts and seek guidance.
• Comprehensive evaluations by experienced specialists are essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Early intervention can significantly impact developmental outcomes.
• Emotional support for families is just as vital as clinical treatment.
• Every child’s journey is unique—individualized care makes a meaningful difference.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Understanding early signs and navigating insurance

03:36 – How to choose the right specialist

07:19 – The evaluation process

11:00 – What a comprehensive assessment includes

20:21 – Coping with emotions and practical steps post-diagnosis

38:25 – Building community and support

39:11 – Autism statistics and what they mean

39:48 – Employment opportunities for neurodivergent individuals

41:10 – What to do after receiving a diagnosis

45:41 – The role of therapy and early intervention

46:51 – Creating individualized therapy plans

51:30 – When and why reevaluation matters

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Dr. Jennifer Poulos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjenniferpoulos/

Visit Dr. Jennifer Poulos’s website: https://intownwellness.org/

If you're navigating the early stages of an autism diagnosis—or supporting someone who is—this episode is packed with essential guidance and heartfelt support.

Tune in now to gain clarity, confidence, and hope for the journey ahead.

What if healing your child’s brain started with their gut?

In this powerful episode of Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross sits down with Dr. Hokehe Eko, integrative pediatrician and CEO of Glow Pediatrics, to explore how a holistic approach can transform the lives of children with autism and ADHD.

Key Questions Explored in the Episode:

• How does gut health impact brain function in children with autism or ADHD?
• What role does diet play in managing symptoms?
• Why is individualized care so important for neurodiverse children?
• How can parents practically implement holistic strategies at home?

Dr. Eko explains how her integrative approach looks at the whole child—not just symptoms—emphasizing brain and gut health as central to supporting children with autism and ADHD. She shares how inflammation, often driven by poor diet, can affect mood and cognition, and offers actionable tips for improving sleep, behavior, and emotional regulation. Dr. Eko also highlights the role of parenting and environmental factors, and ends with hopeful stories of transformation from her practice.

About The Guest:

Dr. Hokehe Eko is a board-certified pediatrician and the CEO of Glow Pediatrics. She specializes in integrative and holistic care for children, with a focus on treating root causes rather than symptoms. Her work blends conventional medicine with functional and lifestyle-based approaches to support children’s optimal development.

Key Takeaways:

• Reducing inflammation through diet can significantly improve symptoms of ADHD and autism.
• Gut health is deeply connected to brain function and emotional regulation.
• Holistic care involves addressing sleep, exercise, hydration, and emotional well-being.
• Small lifestyle changes can yield meaningful improvements in behavior and attention.
• Parental support and individualized care are key to long-term success.

Time Stamps:

00:00 - Introducing Dr. Eko: A Holistic Pediatrician

01:58 – The Importance of Holistic Evaluations

03:55 – Brain Health and Inflammation

08:37 – The Impact of Diet on Autism and ADHD

15:23 – Success Stories and Practical Advice

21:32 – Impact of Nutrition on Child Behavior

22:15 – Emotional Health and Parenting

25:22 – Children's Love Letters: A Book Overview

32:38 – The Importance of Sleep for Children

39:14 – Environmental Health and Its Effects

Links for the Guest:

Connect with Dr. Hokehe Eko on Instagram:

Visit Glow Pediatrics: https://www.glowpediatrics.com/

Curious about how holistic care can support your child’s unique needs?

Tune in to the full episode for insights, strategies, and inspiration.