Shows
Autism Blueprint PodcastPlanning for Tomorrow | Essential Steps for Parents of Autistic Kids | A conversation with Lisa CanderaEpisode Summary
In this episode of the Autism Blueprint Podcast, I had an insightful conversation with Lisa Candera, an autism mom, attorney and coach. We explored the challenges and strategies for parents of children with autism, particularly in planning for their future.
Listeners will learn:
The importance of staying present while planning for a child’s future with autism.
Key legal considerations, including special needs trusts and the differences between guardianship and conservatorship.
How to navigate the emotional complexities of parenting a child with special needs.
The value of seeking professional help and building a...
2025-12-1045 min
The Autism Mom Coach186: Savoring the Good for Autism ParentsEvery November, we hear the same message: be grateful, make a list, count your blessings. But for many autism parents, gratitude lists fall flat. You already know what matters—your child, progress, small moments of peace. The problem isn’t awareness; it’s that your nervous system is still stuck in survival modIn this episode, Lisa Candera, autism mom coach and host of The Autism Mom Coach Podcast, shares why savoring—not just gratitude—is the missing piece in emotional regulation for autism parents. You’ll learn how savoring helps your brain record safety and connection as real, not...
2025-11-2616 minThe Autism Mom Coach185: Co-RegulationBefore your autistic child can self-regulate, they co-regulate — through you.Your nervous system becomes their roadmap. Your breath, tone, and posture tell their body whether it’s safe or in danger. This is why your steadiness matters more than any script or strategy.In this episode, autism mom coach Lisa Candera breaks down the science and skill of co-regulation for autism parents — how two nervous systems sync, how stress transfers between you and your child, and how to use your own body as the anchor that helps them recover.You’ll learn what’s actually...
2025-11-1916 min
Autism Knows No BordersHow to Be a Grounding Presence for Your Autistic Child, with Lisa CanderaDiscover what’s possible when your calm becomes their anchor.
Does your autistic child struggle with regulating themselves?
If you’d like to learn how to stay calm in order to help your child in stressful situations, stick around for part two of my conversation with autism-mom coach Lisa Candera, where she talks about what it means to be a solid object for your child.
Among other things, we discuss:
Techniques for staying calm and grounded when your child is stressed
Common struggles and invisible challenges faced by autism parents
How therapists, frien...
2025-11-1324 min
Mother's Guide Through AutismFrom Meltdowns to Calm: Tools for Emotional Resilience with Lisa CanderaSend us a textWhen your child is in full meltdown mode, what do you do?If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to hold it together while everything around you is falling apart—you’re not alone. In this powerful episode, Brigitte talks with Lisa Candera, solo mom to a teen with severe autism and OCD, full-time attorney, and certified life coach for autism moms.Lisa shares the hard-earned tools that helped her stop reacting out of overwhelm and start responding with calm, clarity, and compassion. She introduces her Meltdown Action P...
2025-11-0955 min
Autism Knows No BordersBlaming Mothers for Autism is Wrong, with Lisa CanderaDiscover what’s possible when you shift from blame to resilience.
Although many myths about the causes of autism have been thoroughly debunked, misinformation continues to take a toll on mothers. Whether you know from personal experience or through an autism mom in your life, you’ll want to listen to this episode with Lisa Candera.
Lisa Candera is a single mom, attorney, ADHD-er, autism-mom coach, and the host of The Autism Mom Podcast. She helps parents of autistic children regulate themselves first, so they can show up for their kids with compassion, clarity, and stren...
2025-11-0631 min
EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids198 | the role of parents as co-regulators for autistic children with Lisa CanderaABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇In this episode, Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in the autistic journey. Joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom and coach for parents of autistic children, they discuss the role of parents as primary co-regulators for their children as well as strategies for staying regulated, building self-trust, and supporting their children's behaviors. They also explore systemic issues, coping mechanisms, and the need for a holistic approach that includes listening to autistic voices. Despite the focus on parents, the core message underscores the importance of a balanced support system for...
2025-11-0554 minThe Autism Mom CoachEp 183 Mental Health and Autism: Teens and Young AdultsLisa continues her conversation with therapist and autism mom Janeen Herskovitz about the mental-health landscape for teens and young adults with autism. They talk about anxiety, burnout, alexithymia, and how parents can balance support, boundaries, and rest—for their kids and themselves.Key TakeawaysMental-health shifts often begin earlier than we expect.Feelings live in the body; naming them is regulation.“School refusal” is often emotional overload, not defiance.Recovery isn’t avoidance—it’s necessary work.Lisa’s TakeawayWatching your child’s mental health shift can feel disorienting and scary. I know what it’s...
2025-11-0525 min
Becoming: HER with Nikki SpoelstraPeace Over Power: Redefining Strength for Autism Moms with Lisa Candera Ep. 209Welcome back to Becoming: HER, the podcast where we explore the real, raw, and remarkable journey of stepping into who we’re meant to be.Today, I’m joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom, attorney, ADHD-er, and autism mom coach whose work is changing the narrative around resilience, motherhood, and self-regulation.Lisa is the host of The Autism Mom Podcast, which ranks in the top 2%, and her upcoming book dives deep into what it means to be a “solid object” for your child, not fixing, not co-escalating, but standing steady in the storm.In a w...
2025-11-041h 00Becoming: HER with Nikki SpoelstraPeace Over Power: Redefining Strength for Autism Moms with Lisa Candera Ep. 209Welcome back to Becoming: HER, the podcast where we explore the real, raw, and remarkable journey of stepping into who we’re meant to be.Today, I’m joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom, attorney, ADHD-er, and autism mom coach whose work is changing the narrative around resilience, motherhood, and self-regulation.Lisa is the host of The Autism Mom Podcast, which ranks in the top 2%, and her upcoming book dives deep into what it means to be a “solid object” for your child, not fixing, not co-escalating, but standing steady in the storm.In a w...
2025-11-041h 00The Autism Mom Coach182: Mental Health & Autism MomsIn this episode of The Autism Mom Coach Podcast, Lisa Candera sits down with therapist and Autism Blueprint host Janine Hershkowitz, LMHC for an honest conversation about the intersection of autism and maternal mental health.Janine—mom of two autistic young adults and a psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience—shares how constant stress, high-alert living, and unprocessed trauma shape the nervous systems of autism parents. Together, Lisa and Janine discuss what healing can look like, how to create boundaries without guilt, and why sustainable self-maintenance is essential for both parent and child.This episode is p...
2025-10-2223 minThe Autism Mom CoachEp 181. ABA is Not One-Size-Fits All with Alisha Watt-Simpson, LCSW, BCBA, LBAABA Is Not One Size Fits AllApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can be one of the most effective tools for helping children with autism—but it’s often misunderstood. In this episode of The Autism Mom Coach, host Lisa Candera talks with Alisha Simpson-Watt, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst, and Licensed Behavior Analyst who leads Collaborative ABA Services in Middletown, Connecticut.Alisha explains why ABA therapy should never be a one-size-fits-all approach. She shares how modern ABA focuses on individualized treatment plans tailored to the unique needs of each child and family. As b...
2025-10-1517 minThe Autism Mom CoachEp. 169: Who is an Autism Expert?In Episode 169 of The Autism Mom Coach Podcast, Lisa Candera—a lawyer, life coach, and autism mom—explores the concept of expertise in autism parenting and why you are the expert on your child. Using the example of the Karen Read retrial, Lisa explains that expertise isn’t just about degrees and certifications. It’s about lived experience and practical knowledge.This powerful concept applies directly to autism parenting. Parents of autistic children accumulate valuable, practical knowledge through years of firsthand care. These parents are uniquely positioned to understand their child’s needs, behaviors, and challenges.Key Tak...
2025-05-2808 minThe Autism Mom CoachEp. 168 The Autism Meltdown Action PlanThe Meltdown Action Plan -- Download it Here: https://mailchi.mp/theautismmomcoach.com/mapAutism meltdowns are intense, overwhelming, and often misunderstood—not just for the child, but for the parent as well. In Episode 168 of The Autism Mom Coach Podcast, Lisa Candera shares a groundbreaking, trauma-informed tool designed specifically for autism moms who feel frozen, reactive, or helpless during their child’s dysregulation.Introducing the Meltdown Action Plan—a step-by-step, easy-to-follow framework that gives parents the tools and structure they need to stay calm and take purposeful action during meltdowns.Drawing on her pe...
2025-05-2108 minThe Autism Mom Coach167: When Should I Push My Child with Autism? In Episode 167 of The Autism Mom Coach Podcast, Lisa Candera—a lawyer, life coach, and solo mom to a teenager with autism—tackles one of the most emotionally loaded questions for autism parents: Should I push my child out of their comfort zone or give them more support?Using a real-life story from a coaching client, Lisa explains: ✅ Why there's no perfect moment to act ✅ How to treat parenting decisions like experiments ✅ What “friction” actually means in your child’s growth ✅ How to move forward even when things don’t go perfectly...
2025-05-1407 minThe Autism Mom CoachEp. 166 Am I asking too much, or too little, from my child with autism?In this episode, autism coach and solo parent Lisa Candera—also known as The Autism Mom Coach—breaks down a question nearly every autism parent wrestles with:Am I expecting too much or not enough from my child with autism?Through a real-life story from one of her private coaching clients, Lisa illustrates the emotional push-pull autism moms face when deciding whether to stretch their child or simply let them enjoy the moment. She explores the hidden fear that often drives the urge to do more, and how that fear can overshadow meaningful progress.
2025-05-0708 minThe Autism Mom CoachEpisode 165: The Space Between: When the Autism Development Gap WidensIn Episode 165, Lisa Canera examines "the space between" - the developmental gap parents observe between their autistic children and neurotypical peers. Drawing from her experience with her teenage son Ben and insights from her coaching practice, Lisa offers practical guidance on responding effectively when this gap becomes more apparent. She provides a balanced perspective on processing emotions rather than defaulting to additional interventions or self-blame.What You'll LearnHow the developmental gap can trigger stress responses in parentsWhy middle school often represents a turning point where social differences become more pronouncedThe counterproductive nature of constantly trying...
2025-04-3008 min
Wisdom of WomenWisdom of Women - The Autism Mom Coach Lisa Candera: Talks Meltdowns, Growth, and Self-careLisa Candera, also known as the 'autism mom coach.' As a mother to a child with autism and a practicing attorney, Lisa brims with wisdom and practical insights to share. In this candid conversation, we delve into Lisa's coaching program that targets stress, anxiety, and burnout for autism moms. She offers specific insights on handling meltdowns in children with autism, which will also be the focus of her upcoming webinar. Lisa shares personal experiences about being a special needs parent, including her journey of overcoming delayed grief and the emphasis on parents prioritizing their own well-being. She discusses...
2024-07-1835 min
1 in 31Lisa Candera - The Autism Mom CoachThis weekend's 1 in 36 guest is Lisa Candera. Lisa is the “Autism Mom Coach”, she’s a lawyer, and has her own podcast. Lisa has a son with autism, which has led to her passion of 1:1 coaching and supporting other mothers with autistic children. Through her coaching program, she teaches moms how to manage their minds, regulate their emotions and soothe their nervous systems using a cognitive behavioral and nervous system informed approach together with her real-life, in the trenches experiences as a full time single mom to a teen with ASD and other comorbid diagnoses. Tune in to learn more a...
2023-08-2524 min
Autism WeeklyNavigating the Exhaustion and Resilience of Autism Parenting | With Lisa Candera #135This week, we are joined by Lisa, a dedicated autism parent who, for 12 years, experienced constant anxiety and self-doubt following her son's ASD diagnosis. As a single mom raising neurodivergent twin boys, she understands the challenges intimately. Through coaching, Lisa discovered the importance of self-care, digging deep into triggers, and creating new empowering beliefs. Today, she shares her journey and how coaching transformed her approach to autism parenting. Download to learn more!
Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/theautismmomcoach/
https://www.facebook.com/theautismmomcoach
LinkedIn: Lisa Candera
Resources:
7 Truths Every ASD Mom Needs to K...
2023-07-2845 min
The Autism Mom Coach69. Have I Done Everything?One question that most, if not all, Autism moms have at some point is this: Have I done everything I can for my child? This week, I offer my answer to this burning question. You’ll hear why the notion of doing everything is frankly absurd and not goal-worthy, and what you can do instead to move forward.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/69
2023-06-2819 min
Parenting Impossible – The Special Needs Survival PodcastAvoiding Burnout with Lisa Candera The Autism Mom CoachHost Annette Hines of Parenting Impossible welcomes Lisa Candera, The Autism Mom Coach in a discussion about the burnout cycle and how she helps coach parents to get out of this cycle to live healthier. She calls her one-on-one coaching program, "Be the Solid Object," which she explains is "specifically designed for Type A mothers raising children with ASD." Candera works in one-hour Zoom coaching sessions during which she helps her clients engage in self-examination and radical acts of self-love. She also works as an attorney. Hines and Candera discuss the differences between the roles of "...
2023-06-2249 min
The Autism Mom Coach68. Mental Health HospitalizationsI’m talking about mental health hospitalizations for children with Autism, specifically ER visits, in-patient hospitalizations, and partial hospitalization programs. The first time my son was hospitalized, I knew absolutely nothing about mental health hospitalizations for children with Autism. However, hearing stories and experiences from other people really helped me, so my hopes are that what I’m sharing today will be useful for you if you ever have to deal with your own child being hospitalized.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/68
2023-06-2122 min
The Autism Mom Coach67. Failing ForwardFailing forward is one of the most important skills we need to develop as parents of children with Autism, but it is not for the faint of heart. This week, hear why the skill of failing forward is a muscle you have to build, three important questions that will help you practice failing forward, and my top tips for beginning to befriend failure.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/67
2023-06-1410 min
The Autism Mom Coach66. Managing Summer Break Anxiety (Replay)Are you experiencing summer break anxiety? I know that many of you are worried about how to keep your child with Autism occupied. You might be lamenting over the fact that you can’t send your child to any old camp or hire any old sitter.I’m offering some of the most common worries I hear from parents of children with Autism about this time of year, and three things you can do to ease your summer break anxiety.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/66
2023-06-0715 min
The Autism Mom Coach65. On the Hard DaysListen in for an interview I did over on Megan Champion’s podcast, On The Hard Days. I'm diving into the early years following my son’s Autism diagnosis, and how, like so many of you, I was constantly pushing down my emotions. You’ll hear the realizations I had about needing to practice real self-care, and how I began resetting the default thought patterns and nervous system responses that weren’t serving me.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/65
2023-05-3133 min
The Autism Mom Coach64. AngerDiscover the difference between feeling angry and staying angry, and the power of learning to process difficult emotions. I’m sharing my preferred way of processing anger, and 25 things that get me angry about parenting in Autism to show you how voicing the things we experience that other people might not understand can be extremely cathartic.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/64
2023-05-2418 min
The Autism Mom Coach63. Moms Like Us: An Interview with Cindy DeckerHear my conversation with my former client and now lifelong friend, Cindy Decker. Cindy shares her journey from her child’s diagnosis to where she is today, how she freed up more time and space to advocate for her child and other children through an advocacy program, and all the changes she made in her day-to-day that have enabled her to shift the way she shows up as a mom.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/63
2023-05-1740 min
The Autism Mom Coach62. How to Stop Second Guessing Yourself (Part 2)Discover how to stop second guessing yourself and your decisions. I’m sharing the two types of second guessing we do as the parents of children with Autism, the difference between second guessing and due diligence, and giving you my step-by-step process to stop second guessing the decisions you make and your abilities as a parent.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/62
2023-05-1027 min
No Need to Explain with the Mental Health MamasBeing the Parent You Want to Be with Guest Lisa CanderaThis week we are joined by Lisa Candera, AKA The Autism Mom Coach. Lisa is a full-time single mother of a teenage boy with autism, a certified life coach, and a lawyer. Lisa teaches moms raising kids with Autism how to show up in their lives as the parent they want to be even when parenthood looks nothing like they imagined. We chat with Lisa about staying regulated when our kids are dysregulated, enforcing personal boundaries, loving detachment and lots more!Visit Lisa’s website: https://theautismmomcoach.com/Vi...
2023-05-0924 min
The Autism Mom Coach61. Stop Second Guessing Yourself (Part 1)How often do you question whether you’re doing enough or the right things for your child with Autism? Do you have the urge to ruminate on and review every decision, or wonder if there’s anything you could have or should be doing differently?I'm exploring what second guessing is, why we do it, and how this habit might be showing up in your life. You’ll hear how we’re socialized to believe we can’t be trusted, and next week, I’ll give you specific steps to begin unwinding this habit. Get full...
2023-05-0312 minThe Autism Mom CoachMother’s Day GiveawayFor my Mother's Day Giveaway, I am giving away hand-crafted soaps from Trev's Trades Where Autism Meets Potential. Trev is a young adult with autism and other disabilities, and a soap maker.I have 10 lovely soaps to give away. To enter the Mother's Day Giveaway, rate and review the podcast by May 14th, and email me the title of your review. For those of you who have already rated and reviewed the podcast, you can get a soap by sharing the podcast on your social media feeds and tagging me and Trev. I want to support Trev and...
2023-04-2603 min
The Autism Mom Coach60. Turning Autism Around with Dr. Mary BarberaWhile I teach mothers raising kids with autism how to regulate their emotions when their child is dysregulated, I get a ton of questions about how parents can teach self-regulation skills to their kids.That is why, in this week's episode of the podcast, I am interviewing Dr. Mary Barbera. Dr. Barbera is the mother of a young adult with Autism, a registered nurse, board certified behavior analyst and a best selling author.Dr. Barbera's latest book Turn Autism Around, her online courses, weekly podcast and social media posts help parents and professionals start turning...
2023-04-2650 min
The Autism Mom Coach59. Parental Burnout AwarenessIn this episode, discover why Autism parent burnout is a problem and what you can do to interrupt it.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/59
2023-04-1906 min
The Autism Mom Coach58. The IEP Table with Julie Swanson, The Life Skills LadyJoin me this week to continue our discussions about Individualized Education Plans, this time with Julie Swanson, AKA The Life Skills Lady. Julie is an IEP advocate based in Connecticut. She’s one of the OGs of education advocacy, and she’s also a mentor to many other IEP advocates that have followed in her footsteps. Julie shares the problems she’s encountered at the IEP table as an advocate, and why she helps families focus on the development of life skills in creating better outcomes for children with Autism.Get full show notes and more information here...
2023-04-1250 min
Feminist Wellness216: Getting Anchored with Lisa Candera#216: April is Autism Awareness Month, so I thought it only seemed fitting to share my conversation with Anchored member, Lisa Candera. Lisa, a.k.a. The Autism Mom Coach, is the single parent of a child with Autism, a certified life coach, and a lawyer. She helps moms raising kids with Autism show up to their lives as the parent they want to be, even when parenthood looks nothing like they imagined. Lisa shares the gifts of our Anchored community and the transformations she’s experienced since joining. She’s offering the ways in which she le...
2023-04-0640 min
The Autism Mom Coach57. The IEP Table with Amanda DeLuca and Kirby MorganAmanda DeLuca and Kirby Morgan have created an online community to help support parents of Neurodiverse Children, and the work they’re doing is amazing. They’re certified IEP coaches, and they help their clients better understand their role at the IEP table.Find out how an advocate can help make sure your child is getting the service they need without creating a divide at the table, and what to consider if you’re currently having a difficult time advocating for your child.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/57
2023-04-051h 01The Autism Mom CoachWebinar: Overcoming Burnout in 5 Simple Stepshttps://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/4016803130699/WN_xCv_Z2VKSYS1_0W30Y06mQBehind every child with autism, are parents who are feeling afraid and overwhelmed by the dizzying amount of responsibility and uncertainty that comes with raising a child without a road map. That is why, for Autism Awareness month, I am shining a light on parental burnout with my free webinar for autism parents: “Overcoming Burnout in 5 Simple Steps." In this webinar, you will learn the real reason you are burnt out (spoiler alert: it i...
2023-04-0302 min
The Autism Mom Coach56. Medication ShamingWhether you have been medicating your child for years and facing that decision never gets any easier, or you haven’t yet made that decision and you’re experiencing crippling fear about it, you’re in the right place. All of this is gut-wrenching, so tune in as I normalize this decision and lay out all the BS reasons we’ve bought into that make us shame ourselves.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/56
2023-03-2912 min
Talk Like a Mother: Parenting Autism PodcastS16: We Aren't Experts, But They Are E3: Lisa Candera, The Autism Mom CoachHave you ever considered what support you need in this life and parenting journey? Often as parents of children with additional needs, we have limited time left to share with ourselves. To truly reflect on the path we are taking and to understand where we are right now in the moment. We had the opportunity to speak with Lisa Candera, who helped us remember that it is not only about raising our beautiful children but also about understanding how important it is to reflect on our feelings and emotions on this path. Lisa is wealthy of knowledge. As a...
2023-03-2751 min
The Autism Mom Coach55. Words Matter: Autism & AggressionWords like “aggressive” and “violent” are often improperly used as descriptors for the behaviors of people with Autism. They’re anti-social words that have a broad range of consequences that are very scary for parents raising children with Autism. Discover why words matter, and how the language we use for dysregulated behavior in our children needs to shift. I’m sharing my preferred language for referring to violence or aggression, and how we can start focusing efforts on ways we can better understand and support our children.Get full show notes and more information here: https://thea...
2023-03-2213 min
The Autism Mom Coach54. Minimum BaselineDo you ever find yourself making grand plans, not following through with them, and then beating yourself up for not doing enough to make them happen? This perfectionist thinking is making raising your child with Autism even harder than it already is. So this week, I share a simple tool that will set you and your child up for success and you don't want to miss it.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/54
2023-03-1512 min
The Autism Mom Coach53. PerfectionismWhile it sounds noble and goal-worthy to be a perfectionist, it’s only keeping you in a cycle of doing more and more but feeling like you’ve never done enough. I'm sharing the hallmarks of perfectionistic thinking, how it’s showing up in your parenting and other areas of life, and how B- work can help you relax the unrealistic standards you’re holding yourself to.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/53
2023-03-0813 min
The Autism Mom Coach52. External ValidationWhen you are relying on external validation, you’re outsourcing all of your power to other people. They get to decide whether or not you can think well of yourself, and it creates a vicious cycle of always trying to prove yourself. Discover how to repattern your habit of seeking external validation. I’m sharing why so many moms of children with Autism fall into this trap, and most importantly I’m showing you why you aren’t powerless in getting out of it.Get full show notes and more information here: https...
2023-03-0110 min
The Autism Mom Coach51. Permission Slips 2.0The 2.0 version of permission slips is all about taking the time for yourself, but also giving yourself permission to actually enjoy that time without guilt. I’m telling stories from two clients who couldn’t enjoy the time they’d created for themselves, and sharing the coaching I offered them so they could give themselves the permission slips they needed.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/51
2023-02-2209 min
The Autism Mom Coach50. Permission SlipsDo you struggle to give yourself permission to put your self-care needs first? This week, I show you how to give yourself a much-needed permission slip for self-care, and share why we focus our time and energy on our children at the exclusion of ourselves. Learn how to give yourself permission to do something for yourself instead of always acting in service of others.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/50
2023-02-1511 min
The Autism Mom Coach49. Self-Care is Your ResponsibilityIf you think you don’t have time for yourself because of all your responsibilities as a Special Needs parent, this episode is for you. I’m sharing seven simple things you can start doing right now to prioritize your self-care, regardless of what’s going on in your life. Learn why self-care is so important for you and your child, and how to make time for it, no matter what.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/49
2023-02-0814 min
Compassion Confetti for Autism MomsRegulating Emotions Through The Polyvagal Approach: A Conversation With Autism Mom Coach Lisa CanderaIn this podcast episode, Lisa, The Autism Mom Coach, joins Colette to discuss her framework for navigating meltdowns before, during, and after. She explains how her approach focuses on acceptance rather than resistance and shares specific strategies for each framework stage. Lisa emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents and caregivers and shares her advice for replenishing oneself. The episode also covers how listeners can access Lisa's program and consultation services. Key takeaways:The importance of acceptance rather than resistance in navigating meltdownsThe three steps of before, during, and after the frameworkThe si...
2023-02-0135 min
The Autism Mom Coach48. The Big Mistake Every Autism Parent Makes and How to Stop ItTune in this week to discover how to correct the biggest mistake Autism Parents make: not making time for themselves. I’m sharing why we make this mistake, how it impacts our children, and most importantly, how to start giving yourself a little attention when you need it so you can show up the way you want to for your child.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/48
2023-02-0109 min
Turn Autism AroundParent Coaching for Autism Families with The Autism Mom Coach, Lisa CanderaBeing a parent is a challenge, add in a diagnosis of autism or even other additional diagnoses the challenges seem to never stop growing. Lisa Candera, lawyer, autism mom, and life coach, joined me today to talk about common struggles for autism parents and how she helps support autism moms. You don't have to be stuck worrying about the future or handling every problem alone, Lisa offers advice and tips for these problems and more.
2023-01-3140 min
The Autism Mom Coach47. Being Willing to Be WrongIf you’re living with the fear that you aren’t doing enough for your child, catastrophizing about the future, or blaming yourself for your child’s struggles, a willingness to be wrong will change everything. Tune in this week to discover how to open yourself up to vulnerability, questioning what you think is right, and being willing to be wrong about the belief systems that are keeping you spinning in the hamster wheel of pain and self-doubt.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/47
2023-01-2510 min
The Autism Mom Coach46. Keeping Your Cool During an Autism MeltdownDo you find yourself always walking on eggshells, living in fear of your child's next meltdown? If the answer is YES, then my new course is for you! In a little over one hour, you will learn what to do before, during and after a meltdown, so that you can remain regulated, even when your child is melting down. For full show notes and to sign up for the course, go to: https://theautismmomcoach.com/46
2023-01-1809 min
The Autism Mom Coach45. Moms Like Us: An Interview with Jamie GregoryJamie is the mom of five-year-old twin boys with Autism, and she came to me for coaching at a time when her kids were struggling, dysregulated, and having more frequent and intense meltdowns than ever. This was taking a serious emotional toll on Jamie, however, the work we did together has helped her support herself and her sons in new ways, and she’s here to share all of it with you.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/45
2023-01-1141 min
The Autism Mom Coach44. How Coaching Changes EverythingTune in this week to discover what coaching is, how it works, and how coaching changed my life when I was at a breaking point. I’ve tried therapy and never found it very useful, but when I found a coach who understood Autism and my experience as a working mom, I was able to start building a life I loved. If you’re curious about coaching and how it can change everything for you, listen in.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/44
2023-01-0417 min
The Autism Mom Coach43. When Things SuckSometimes, things just suck. Maybe you were planning a winter vacation, but then everyone in your house got sick. Maybe your child’s favorite teacher just resigned, or your child was asked to leave their school altogether. Whatever the story is for you, we all hit these points at some time or another. I have 7 tips to help you weather the storm when things just suck, and I’m sharing all of them with you in this episode.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/43
2022-12-2815 min
The Autism Mom Coach42. Holiday StressorsThe Holiday season is in full swing and, if you’re raising a child with Autism, I’m sure you are feeling it. So, in this week’s episode, I’m discussing some of the Holiday-themed stressors I’m hearing about from my clients and sharing the coaching I offered them during this challenging time of the year.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/42
2022-12-2119 min
The Autism Mom Coach41. Holiday Survival StrategyThe Holiday season of joy and gratitude is here, accompanied by increased stress and mental breakdowns. This is a familiar experience for parents of children with Autism, so I’m devoting this episode to teaching you a powerful strategy that will help you prepare for family time, skip the drama, and actually enjoy The Holidays.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/41
2022-12-1410 min
The Autism Mom Coach40. How to Talk to Your Child About Their Autism DiagnosisTune in this week because I’m giving you three tips for talking to your child about their Autism diagnosis. This episode is based around a presentation I held recently on this exact topic, and I’m sharing everything you need to consider as you prepare for this conversation, if you decide to have it at all.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/40
2022-12-0722 min
The Autism Mom Coach39. The How-To Guide for Other Humans (aka Manuals)This week, learn how to set your manuals for how others should behave aside so you can truly enjoy the people in your life for who they are. You’ll hear what happens when you stick to your manuals without question, and how this is the perfect opportunity to distance yourself from thoughts about what should be, and instead decide with intention how you want to show up when the world isn’t complying.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/39
2022-11-3014 min
The Autism Mom Coach38. When You Stop People Pleasing and Other People Aren’t PleasedListen in this week to discover what to do when you stop people pleasing and other people aren’t pleased. I’m showing you why not people pleasing is a foreign concept to so many people, what to expect when you stop, and my top tips for having your back when you start telling others what you really want.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/38
2022-11-2309 min
The Autism Mom Coach37. How to Stop People PleasingPeople pleasing is a well-worn habit and stopping isn’t easy. However, small changes can go a long way. Tune in this week to discover how to shift from doing things because you always have and everyone expects you to, to figuring out what you really want and acting in alignment with your own values. I’m giving you a strategy that will help you stop people pleasing, one step at a time.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/37
2022-11-1611 min
The Autism Mom Coach36. Why We People PleaseWhen we are people pleasing, we’re lying to others and to ourselves. We’re trying to manipulate how people view us by acting in ways that are not in alignment with how we really want to show up. With The Holidays fast approaching, the people-pleasing season truly is upon us, which makes now the perfect time to talk about how people pleasing shows up in Special Needs Parenting, and most importantly, how to break this exhausting habit.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/36
2022-11-0917 min
The Autism Mom Coach35. Managing Your TransitionsWhile we might not be as sensitive to changes and transitions as our child with Autism, did you know that we too can benefit from the same support systems we use to help them? Listen in this week to discover how to support yourself through any transition. I’m digging into schedules, previews, social studies, and test runs as just a few ways we try to prepare our kids for transitions, and I’m showing you how to use these systems for your own benefit too. Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/35
2022-11-0213 min
The Autism Mom Coach34. When You Wish Your Child Was “Normal” (Part 2)This week, I'm diving a little further into how “normal” is subjective and the ways in which it can be harmful for those with Autism. I talk about why “aggressive” is an inappropriate way to describe the physical reactions that those with Autism experience, how certain ideas and judgements both reinforce inaccurate biases and rob us of joy, and why we can be the ones that change how language is used.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/34
2022-10-2607 min
The Autism Mom Coach33. When You Wish Your Child Was "Normal" (Part 1)Whether we want to admit it or not, so many of us have had the thought, “I wish my child was normal,” at one point or another. This is something that often comes up with my clients, and they’re riddled with shame and guilt. So, this week, find out why it’s 100% normal if you’ve ever found yourself thinking, saying, or wishing that your child or parenting experience was “normal.” You’ll hear why it’s a natural human desire to want to be "normal," and why you can both love your kid as they are and still wish things...
2022-10-1909 min
The Autism Mom Coach32. When You Think Nothing is WorkingTune in this week to discover what to do when you think nothing’s working. This is not about undermining your experience. I’m in the thick of it myself. Rather, I’m sharing how to be there for yourself and your child when it feels like you’re getting nowhere, and how to identify all of the things that are working, even if they differ slightly from what you expected.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/32
2022-10-1212 min
The Autism Mom Coach31. The Stories We TellHuman brains are story-making machines. We create stories as a way of understanding our lives, relating to the world, and relating to one another. Some of the stories we tell are empowering, while some have the opposite effect, and our power lies in our ability to choose the version of the story we want to tell, believe, and live. In this episode, I'm offering two very different diagnosis stories drawn from the same set of facts to show you how there is no ultimate truth, and why this is the best news. Get full show notes and...
2022-10-0513 min
The Autism Mom Coach30. Autism-Colored GlassesDo you ever find yourself interpreting all of your child’s behavior through the lens of their Autism diagnosis? Tune in this week to discover how you show up when you look at your child’s behavior through Autism-Colored Glasses. I’m showing you why there’s always more than one way of looking at your child’s behavior, and I’m sharing how to see if you’re missing out on the bigger picture or causing yourself unnecessary stress and anxiety.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/30
2022-09-2816 min
The Autism Mom Coach29. When Other People Trigger YouTune in this week as I share a story where I was triggered. Well, actually I was stunned and sickened during a conversation with someone. There was a time when I would have reacted very differently to this conversation, however, with the skills of thought work, I was able to look at this uncomfortable situation in a more helpful way. So, I’m showing how you can do the same when you feel triggered by thoughtless comments or actions by another person.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/29
2022-09-2114 min
The Autism Mom Coach28. The Comparison TrapHave you ever found yourself comparing your life to the lives of your friends, family members, or even strangers on social media? You're not alone. This week, discover why our brains naturally go to a place of comparison, why it served humankind in the distant past, and why using comparison in unhelpful ways isn’t serving us now. I’m showing you how to see where you’re stuck into the Comparison Trap and how you can wriggle free if you fall into it.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/28
2022-09-1412 min
The Autism Mom Coach27. Back to School Series: Ask an Autism Expert with Dr. Darren SushWe all need a little advice from time to time, so in this week’s episode, I’m speaking with Dr. Darren Sush, a licensed clinical psychologist, Autism expert, and a board-certified behavioral analyst, about ways parents can prepare themselves and their children for the school year. Darren deeply understands the struggles parents raising children with Autism face, so he's sharing how to create ease around your experience of sending your child back to school.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/27
2022-09-0752 min
The Autism Mom Coach26. Back to School Series: Navigating GriefTune in this week to discover why you’re feeling grief around your child’s return to school. I’m sharing my story and the uncomfortable emotions that are coming up for me, and why if you don’t process the feelings of grief in the moment, they can manifest physically and make a hard situation even harder.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/26
2022-08-3112 min
The Autism Mom Coach25. Back to School Series: Mental RehearsalTune in this week to discover a new way to cope with intense emotion. We always have the power to improve our ability to cope with the challenges we face in parenting neurodivergent children. Instead of simply catastrophizing about worst-case scenarios, you can be more in control than you ever thought possible, and I’m showing you how in today’s episode.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/25
2022-08-2412 min
The Autism Mom Coach24. Back to School Series: Making Decisions Ahead of TimeThis week, I’m teaching you the power and the practice of making decisions ahead of time. I’m showing you how to prepare yourself for whatever this school year brings because, once you’ve decided how you want to think, feel, and respond, you can take actions that are aligned with how you want to show up for your child and for yourself.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/24
2022-08-1712 min
The Autism Mom Coach23. Back to School Series: Defining Success for Neurodivergent ChildrenThis week, discover how to redefine what success looks like for our neurodivergent children, and why it serves us to do so, even if it flies in the face of everything we’ve been socialized to believe about what success means. I’m showing you the negative consequences of using the standards of success modeled on neurotypical children, and why applying them to your kids isn’t helpful.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/23
2022-08-1017 min
The Autism Mom Coach22. How to Stop WorryingTune in this week to discover how to stop worrying. Worrying is useless and takes up too much space in our brains, even though it feels totally natural. When you catch yourself in this nasty little brain habit, you can choose not to do it, and I’m showing how with a simple strategy to get control over your worrying.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/22
2022-08-0310 min
The Autism Mom Coach21. Worrying is OptionalAs moms to special needs kids, we worry about so many things when it comes to our children. Join me this week to discover what worry is, and why so many of us are devoted to this habit. I’m showing you how this is an amazing function we humans have, how you’re using it against yourself, and how to begin curbing this habit.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/21
2022-07-2710 min
The Autism Mom Coach20. 5 Powerful Questions for Every Autism MomTune in this week to discover five powerful questions every Autism mom needs to ask themselves. I’m sharing why our brains thrive when we ask them powerful questions, and how to start questioning your brain in a way that will move you forward, instead of feeling stuck as a victim of your circumstances.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/20
2022-07-2014 min
The Autism Mom Coach19. What to Do After a Mommy MeltdownTune in this week to discover what to do after a mommy meltdown. I’m sharing the story of my own mommy meltdown, how I used the S.O.S. technique I shared last week to calm myself and decide on how I wanted to handle the situation, and I’m giving you a simple step-by-step framework to deal with the aftermath of your mommy meltdowns.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/19
2022-07-1324 min
The Autism Mom Coach18. S.O.S. What to Do During a Mommy MeltdownTune in this week for my tips on what you can do during difficult moments to support yourself and manage your mommy meltdown. I'm also showing you how to make my S.O.S. technique (stop, observe, self-soothe) part of your daily self-care, so you can catch your meltdown before you and your child break down in line at the grocery store.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/18
2022-07-0614 min
The Autism Mom Coach17. Check What’s TriggeredTune in this week to check on your triggers, and learn how being triggered might have you showing up in ways you don’t actually like. I’m sharing some of the most common triggers I come across in my life and my clients’ lives, and how you can see the ways you get triggered in your own life, how you generally respond, and how you can choose to react instead if you want to.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/17
2022-06-2915 min
The Autism Mom Coach16. When People Don’t UnderstandIf you’ve ever found yourself feeling frustrated because people don’t seem to understand what your life is like and the struggles you encounter raising a child with Autism, this episode is for you. Discover why believing other people don’t understand your reality is creating more disconnection than you might realize.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/16
2022-06-2212 min
The Autism Mom Coach15. I Need to Live ForeverTune in this week to discover what you’re avoiding dealing with when you tell yourself you need to live forever, or your child will suffer. I’m sharing how thoughts like this only serve to mask our pain and avoid dealing with a very real eventuality, and I’m giving you some way more helpful thoughts you can decide to think instead.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/15
2022-06-1513 min
The Autism Mom Coach14. School Shootings and Special Needs Children: Would My Child be Safe?Tune in this week as I share how to move through your difficult emotions after a senseless tragedy. I’m sharing why we’re not here to try and feel positive about things we know are awful, why you can’t action your way out of fear and grief in the long term, and how to acknowledge your own pain and support yourself with compassion through these heartbreaking times.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/14
2022-06-0809 min
The Autism Mom Coach13. Managing Summer Break AnxietyTune in this week to discover how to manage your anxiety around the summer break. I’m sharing how to reframe your anxious experience at this time of year, and I’m showing you an incredible breathing exercise, so your anxiety can lead to productive action instead of spinning in dread and uncertainty.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/13
2022-06-0113 min
The Autism Mom Coach12. Stepping into Your Role as the ExpertDiscover how to step into your role as the expert when it comes to parenting your child. I’m sharing how to handle your thoughts if you don’t believe being the expert is empowering, and I’m showing you how to use the Think-Feel-Act cycle to create the kind of emotions that will allow you to parent with confidence and certainty, instead of fear and overwhelm.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/12
2022-05-2522 min
The Autism Mom Coach11. You Are the ExpertTune in this week to discover what an expert is, and why you’re already the expert when it comes to parenting your child with Autism. I’m sharing where your expertise comes from and how to see it, and be sure to come back next week where I’m discussing stepping into your role as the expert.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/11
2022-05-1813 min
The Autism Mom Coach10. CatastrophizingDiscover a simple way to reframe your worst-case scenario thoughts and break the cycle of catastrophizing. I’m sharing why your brain loves to catastrophize over things that aren’t even certain, why ignoring it or telling yourself you’re worrying over nothing is never the answer, and how to instead meet yourself with empowering thoughts.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/10
2022-05-1116 min
The Autism Mom Coach9. This Should Not Be HappeningTune in this week to discover why thinking, “This should not be happening” is never helpful. I’m sharing how to get clear on where these thoughts come from and why it’s time to leave them behind so you get to enjoy even the most challenging parts of parenting a child with Autism.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/9
2022-05-0415 min
The Autism Mom Coach8. Riding the WaveTune in this week to discover the power of riding the waves of emotion. I’m sharing why trying to avoid emotions coming up for you or your child isn’t helping, and how instead you can allow for the full emotional experience without avoidance or distractions, living and learning through all of it.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/8
2022-04-2714 min
The Autism Mom Coach7. When You Are RigidTune in this week to discover where rigid all-or-nothing thinking is impacting your parenting, and what you can do to manage it. I’m sharing why our brains love this way of processing the world around us, and I’m showing you how to see the thoughts that are leading you down the path of this either-or mindset.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/7
2022-04-2012 min
The Autism Mom Coach6. The Self-Coaching ModelLast week I introduced you to the Think-Feel-Act Cycle, which is at the very centre of The Self-Coaching Model. It’s a profoundly simple but effective tool we can use to transform our lives, and as promised, this week, I’m showing you how The Self-Coaching Model works so you can apply it in real time when you feel stressed, or your child is having a meltdown and everything feels like it’s crumbling around you.Get full show notes and more information here: https://theautismmomcoach.com/6
2022-04-1320 min
The Autism Mom Coach5. Think-Feel-Act CycleWhether you know it or not, there is a cycle constantly working in the background of everything you do, including dealing with the challenges of parenting a child with Autism.Tune in this week to discover why the Think-Feel-Act Cycle is always at work, and how it’s driving everything you do or don’t do. I’m sharing how your thoughts interact with your feelings, which drive your actions, and how you can start to influence all of it and use this information to your advantage.Get full show notes and more information here: https...
2022-04-0616 min
Yes Day InclusionWhat Triggers YOU (the adult)? An interview with the Autism Mom Coach, Lisa CanderaIn this episode, Lisa Candera, the "Autism Mom Coach" is interviewed and shares enlightening advice about parenting and life. While many of us spend time trying to manage our children or the children that we work with, we should start with how we manage ourselves! Take a listen if you want to reflect on ways you can gain control of your own situation. Also, check out Lisa's brand new podcast, "The Autism Mom Coach Podcast."
2022-03-3135 min