Shows
Autism Changemakers PodcastHow I Navigate Sharing the Hard Stuff on Social Media If you've ever shared something vulnerable about your non-speaking child on social media, or felt the pull to, this episode is for you. I recorded this for the Autism Changemakers Podcast because I saw a post recently from a mom I respect deeply. She shared an honest, graceful moment after an intense day with her son. It was beautiful. And it also made something rise up in me that I knew I had to talk about, because there's more here than most parents realize. What you share online about your child today can shape how peo...
2026-07-0628 min
Moms Talk Autism PodcastThe Power of Self-Regulation in Parenting w/ Sara IntonatoToday Brittney and Tash welcome Sara Intonato, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and a mother of two. Sara shares her unique parenting journey, focusing on her experiences with her non-speaking son, Rocco, and the importance of self-care for parents. The conversation delves into the significance of community support, the impact of yoga on mental health, and the discovery of spelling as a communication method for non-speakers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2026-07-061h 01
Autism Changemakers PodcastWhen Progress Is Real But You're Still Not Enjoying Your Life If your non-speaking autistic child is making real progress — and you still can't enjoy it — this episode is for you. I recorded this because I see it constantly in my work with parents of non-speakers. The spelling is improving. The sleep is better. The hard moments are fewer. And yet you're still bracing. Still scanning. Still waiting for something to go wrong. And then comes the guilt — because you know things are better, and you still can't feel it. This is not a character flaw. It's what happens when hypervigilance has been your baseline for so long t...
2026-06-2217 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastAutism Dad Support: Why Fathers of Non-Speaking Kids Need Community Too | Dr. Jonathan Chism, Autism Dads Social Club If you're a dad of a non-speaking autistic child who's been quietly carrying this alone — or a mom who wishes the dad in your child's life had more support — this episode is for you. I invited Dr. Jonathan Chism, co-founder and president of the Autism Dads Social Club, to come on the Autism Changemakers Podcast and talk about something deeply underserved in our world: the experience of fathers. Jonathan is a professor of history at the University of Houston, an ordained minister, and a dad to a non-speaking son. He built the Autism Dads Social Club from scratc...
2026-06-0838 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastThe Magic Bullet for Non-Speaking Autism Progress? It's Consistency If you've ever asked another autism parent — what's the one thing that made the biggest difference for your child? — this episode is my honest answer. People ask me all the time: Sara, what's the thing that transformed Rocco's journey? What's the magic bullet? And I tell them: consistency. Sometimes they're relieved. Sometimes they're disappointed. Because we live in a world of Amazon Prime mentality — where we expect results fast, and when they don't come, we quietly start to wonder if we should just stop. But consistency looks like nothing is changing — until suddenl...
2026-05-2516 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastNon-Speaking Autism Parents: Stuck Between the System and Self-Trust If you're parenting a non-speaking autistic child, there's a space you might be in right now that almost nobody is talking about. You don't trust the system anymore. You've seen the gaps. You've watched experts underestimate your child and hand you a piece of paper that looks nothing like the child you know. But you haven't fully stepped into trusting yourself yet either. So you get stuck in a loop. You feel a deep knowing — and then you hesitate. You look for someone to confirm it. You get mixed answers. And you come back t...
2026-05-1115 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastNon-Speaking Autism and First Words: A Letterboard Breakthrough Story If you're parenting a non-speaking autistic child and your letterboard journey feels messy and nothing like the polished videos you see on social media — this episode is for you. Jennifer Kenny, an Autism Changemakers member and mom to 15-year-old Sarah, joined me just one week after something extraordinary happened: Sarah spelled her very first open-ended sentence. After years of doubt, detours, and messy sessions. This is that conversation — raw, honest, and mom-to-mom. In this episode we talk about: What happened the day Sarah spelled her first sentence — and what Jennifer felt in that moment...
2026-04-2840 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastThe Hardest Moment of My Autism Parenting Life — And How I Got Through It If you're parenting a non-speaking autistic child and you've ever looked at someone else's life and thought — how are they okay when I'm barely holding it together — this episode is for you. I recorded this one because of a conversation I had with one of my Autism Changemakers members. She's in a really hard season right now, and she asked me something that stopped me in my tracks: Sara, can you share the hardest things you've ever been through with Rocco? Because I just need to hear from someone who made it to the other side. And I...
2026-04-1333 min
Non Linear Learning - Rethinking Education for Neurodivergent Learners204. Do Support Groups Actually Work? The Hard Truth About Finding Your People - with Sara IntonatoDo support groups actually help, or do they reinforce the very mindset that keeps parents stuck? In this episode, I sit down with Sara Intonato to unpack this difficult question. Both of us (and probably you) have lived the same reality: Hypervigilance, burnout, the constant demand of raising a non-speaking child. When we went looking for help, what we found in traditional support spaces was not growth or even help. Unfortunately we found: cycles of venting without direction low expectations presented as...
2026-04-0243 min
Non Linear Learning - Rethinking Education for Neurodivergent Learners204. Do Support Groups Actually Work? The Hard Truth About Finding Your People - with Sara IntonatoDo support groups actually help, or do they reinforce the very mindset that keeps parents stuck? In this episode, I sit down with Sara Intonato to unpack this difficult question. Both of us (and probably you) have lived the same reality: Hypervigilance, burnout, the constant demand of raising a non-speaking child. When we went looking for help, what we found in traditional support spaces was not growth or even help. Unfortunately we found: cycles of venting without direction low expectations presented as acceptance and a normalization of hopelessness This is a hard but beautiful conversation, that digs deep and lets us...
2026-04-0243 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastAutism Awareness Month Is Not Supposed to Feel Like This If you’re raising a child with non-speaking autism and Autism Awareness Month doesn’t feel supportive, I want you to know you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing why April can feel so heavy for parents of non-speaking and minimally speaking autistic children—and what I do to protect my energy during this time. I talk about the impact of online advocacy, nervous system regulation, and why stepping away from social media can actually create more meaningful change at home. In this episode you’ll learn: Why Autism Awareness Month...
2026-03-3021 min
Inchstones with Sarah | Autism Advocacy & Caregiver StoriesAutism Parenting and the Nervous System: Why Change Starts with Us with Sara IntonatoAutism parenting often challenges not just what parents do—but how they think, regulate, and respond. In this conversation, Sarah Kernion speaks with Sara Intonato about the internal shifts required to support a child with autism, particularly in the context of nonspeaking autism and emerging communication methods like open spelling.
At the center of the discussion is self-regulation. The nervous system of the parent becomes part of the environment the child experiences, shaping engagement, connection, and communication. Rather than focusing only on external interventions, this conversation reframes change as something that begins within the caregiver.
Sa...
2026-03-2634 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastWhy Life Skills Classrooms Limit Non-Speaking Students | Dr. Vaish Sarathy If you’re parenting a child with non-speaking autism and feel like you’re constantly advocating for more than the system expects, this episode will resonate deeply. In this conversation, Sara Intonato speaks with educator, researcher, and parent Dr. Vaish Sarathy about why many traditional life skills classrooms limit non-speaking and minimally speaking students—and why separating communication, cognition, and motor skills is essential in autism education. Dr. Sarathy shares her personal experience raising a nonspeaking autistic child who also has Down syndrome, and how choosing to presume...
2026-03-1648 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastNon-Speaking Autism Help: You’re Not Alone (Part 1) If you’ve been searching for non-verbal autism help or support for raising a non-speaking autistic child, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. Parenting a non-speaking autistic child can feel overwhelming in ways people don’t talk about — the constant advocacy, the comparison, the exhaustion, the quiet grief, the isolation. So many autism parents carry burnout silently. In Part 1 of this series, w...
2026-03-0217 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastNon-Speaking Autism Help: Stop Abandoning Yourself (Part 2) If you’re parenting a non-speaking autistic child and feel like you have to hold everything together, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. So many parents of non-speaking kids live in a constant state of responsibility for their children — advocating, regulating, researching, managing therapies — while quietly abandoning themselves. What looks like devotion often becomes self-neglect. Not because you’re flawed, but because survival taught...
2026-03-0221 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastNon-Speaking Autism Help: Get the Support You Need (Part 3)If you’re raising a non-speaking autistic child and feel like you’re barely surviving, this episode is for you. This episode is part of The Quiet Work That Changes Everything — a mini-series for parents of non-speaking autistic children who want to move from survival to presence — and enjoy their kids again. In this final part of our non-verbal autism help series, we talk honestly about support — why it’s so hard to ask for, why hesitation isn’t weakness, and why thriving requires more than just endurance. Inside this episode we explore: W...
2026-03-0231 min
Autism Changemakers PodcastWhat happens when you remove yourself from the usual patterns? In this episode, we step into the transformative experience of walking the Camino de Santiago—not as a romanticized pilgrimage, but as a raw journey of self-discovery, nervous system healing, and collective support. We explore: How changing your environment uncovers patterns, perspectives, and truths you can’t access when you stay put Why movement and walking in nature provide insights that sitting still cannotThe reality of burnout for caregivers, and how intentional distance can be a catalyst for deep healing What becomes possible when you step away from daily roles, silence the noise, and finally create space to...
2026-02-0947 min
Congruent with Lisa Carpenter | The truth beneath success. Why it never feels like enough.How to Stop Feeling Overwhelmed this Holiday Season: Simple Nervous System Tools that Actually Work with Sara IntonatoWhy do successful people feel the most overwhelmed during the holidays? You've built something impressive, you're capable of managing complex projects and leading teams, yet the moment the holidays arrive, you're barely hanging on. You're over-functioning for everyone else, saying yes when you mean no, and by the time you collapse into bed, your mind won't stop racing about everything you still need to do tomorrow.
Who is Sara Intonato?
Sara Intonato is the founder of Autism Changemakers, a parent coach, consultant, and bestselling author. She's also been a yoga teacher and nervous system practitioner for over 20...
2025-12-2340 min
Autism OdysseyAutism Change Maker - Sara IntonatoBetsy Hicks-Russ and Sarah Intonato explore the multifaceted challenges and strategies in supporting individuals with autism. They discuss the importance of self-care for parents, the role of movement and nutrition in managing behavior, and the significance of co-regulation during meltdowns. Sarah emphasizes the need for parents to take care of themselves to effectively support their children, and they both highlight the importance of building a supportive community for families navigating autism. The discussion also touches on the journey of change and growth for both parents and children, encouraging a proactive approach to parenting in the autism world.
2025-09-1953 min
The Change Effect - Inspiration and Strategies for Creating Success on Your Own TermsE94: Sara Intonato: Helping Parents of Children with Autism Heal, Lead with Confidence, and Live a Healthy, Joyful LifeThere are no words to describe a mother’s love for her children and the lengths she will go to in order to ensure their health and happiness. But at what point do these lengths start taking a toll on the parent’s overall well-being? After her son received an autism diagnosis at the age of two, today’s guest has been in lockstep with him ever since, challenging the perceived limitations and realizing the importance of taking care of herself along the way. This week, Sara Intonato and I discuss how she helps parents of child...
2025-03-1145 min
The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastFrom Silence to Fluency: The Journey of Parenting a Non-Speaker, with Sandra VerhoeffIn this compelling episode, host Sara Intonato and special guest Sandra delve into the profound impact of communication therapies, particularly Rapid Prompting Method (RPM) and Spelling to Communicate (STC), on non-speaking individuals. They share personal journeys, discuss the financial and emotional challenges faced by families, and emphasize the importance of emotional readiness, professional intervention, and community support.
#### **Key Highlights:**
1. **Importance of Allocating Funds for Communication Therapies:**
- Sara and Sandra stress the need for financial support for communication therapies like RPM and STC, highlighting the limited resources available for non-speaking individuals and their families.
- They discuss systemic issues...
2024-08-091h 01The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastBuilding Trust and Confidence Through Rapid Prompting Method, with Madison ImberOn this episode, host Sara Intonato engages in an insightful conversation about hope, perseverance, and the unique experiences of neurodiverse individuals. Joining her is Madison Imber, a dedicated RPM practitioner from Calgary, Alberta, who offers a wealth of knowledge on supporting individuals with communication challenges.
#### Key Points Discussed
1. **Grandmother's Advocacy:**
- Sara shares a touching conversation with a grandmother advocating for her non-speaking grandson.
- Emphasis on overcoming mental barriers to foster hope and progress in the child's development.
2. **Support and Resources:**
- Suggestions for parents to seek resources like therapy, hypnosis, yoga, and support groups.
- Importance of...
2024-07-2656 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastEncouraging Nonspeakers: How Luke Found His Voice Through RPMIn this deeply moving episode, we explore the incredible journey of Luke V, a 19-year-old non-speaking individual who communicates using the Rapid Prompt Method (RPM) and spelling through a letterboard. Diagnosed at age 3 with mild to moderate autism and a global developmental delay, Luke has defied expectations, revealing the strength and intellect within.
**Key Highlights:**
- **Emotional Expression with Stuffed Animals (3:21):**
Luke discusses using stuffed animals to express his emotions, a creative outlet that helped him during his journey.
- **Acknowledging Emotions in Teenagers (7:15):**
Sara Intonato praises Luke's emotional maturity, recognizing the challenges teenagers face in regulating their emotions.
...
2024-07-1950 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastFrom Fear to Confidence: Self-Care for Parents of Children with AutismIn this episode of The Full Potential Podcast we welcome Alyssa Labrecque, a renowned gut health expert, to discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for children with autism and the significance of self-care for parents. We delve into how managing the nervous system's response to stressful situations can drastically improve well-being and the overall family dynamic. We share personal stories and practical advice to empower listeners to prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical health.
### Key Points:
1. **Creating Safe Spaces:**
- Alyssa emphasizes the importance of avoiding a "fix it" mentality driven by fear and anxiety.
- Sara highlights...
2024-07-121h 06The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastEmbracing Effortless Financial Growth To Plan For Your Child’s Future with Elizabeth RalphWe’re thrilled to share the highlights from our latest episode where I had the pleasure of hosting the incredible Elizabeth Ralph – the spiritual investor who’s transforming the way we approach money and wealth building.
**Episode Title: "Effortless Wealth with Elizabeth Ralph"**
🎧 Listen to the Full Episode Here [insert link]
**Key Insights from the Episode:**
1. **Empowering Financial Tools**:
Elizabeth Ralph introduced us to the **Spiritual Investor Program**, designed to help you manage your money with minimal time commitment. We explored several investment routes perfect for diverse needs, including 529 accounts...
2024-07-0549 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastExploring the Intersection of Art, Autism, and Healing, with Cindy IngramIn my ongoing mission to delve into the unique journeys of individuals and families thriving with neurodiversity, I’m excited to bring you an enlightening conversation in our latest episode featuring special guest Cindy Ingram.
In this compelling episode, Cindy shares her intimate exploration of social anxiety, childhood trauma, and her realization and acceptance of being autistic. As a mother of two autistic children, Cindy offers a poignant look at the interplay between parenting and personal growth, revealing how her challenges have reshaped her perspective on life and self-understanding.
The conversation delves deeply into:
...
2024-05-2454 min
The Baby Sleep Connection: Holistic help for tired, responsive parents who don't want to sleep trainEP 9: Self-Care and Healing for Parents with Special Needs, with Sara IntonatoJoin Heather Boyd in her interview with Sara Intonato, master coach to parents of children with special needs, as they explore parenting, self-regulation, and how Sara used yoga and self-care to heal emotionally after her son was diagnosed with autism.
With over 20 years of coaching experience that includes an extensive background in the ancient science of yoga, Sara Intonato brings a unique combination of skills and insight to her clients.
Sara’s disciplined self care has allowed her to boldly advocate for her own child with autism successfully, even when experts told her it was imposs...
2024-05-1658 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastTaking Your Power Back!Are you feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of navigating your child's health and well-being, especially if they're on the autism spectrum? You're not alone, and this week's episode of Sara Intonato Consulting is here to empower you with invaluable insights and the strength to reclaim control.
🎧 Episode Title: Taking Your Power Back!
🎙️ Host: Sara Intonato
🌟 Special Guest: Greer McGuinness
In a candid conversation with special guest Greer McGuinness, registered dietitian and mom of a son with autism, we dive deep into the landscape of pediatric health for children with autism, ADHD, and more. G...
2024-04-0556 min
Your Health. Your Story.The Story of Emotional Healing for Parents with Sara IntonatoA parent's physical and mental well-being plays a pivotal role in fostering an environment conducive to their child's growth. In the realm of parenting, it is not merely a supportive role but a cornerstone for success, particularly when raising children with special needs. Our guest today speaks from experience — she is the mother of a non-verbal autistic child. She knows how important it is for a parent to stay healthy to ensure neurodiverse children reach their full potential. This is the Story of Emotional Healing for Parents with Sara Intonato.EPISODE VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS...
2023-12-1442 min
Jamming with Jason MeffordEmotional Healing with Sara IntonatoWhat would it feel like to be healed? To be at peace in your life?
In this #podcast episode I talk with my friend Sara Intonato about her journey of healing and how being a parent of an autistic child has been such a healing blessing in her life.
And before you think this isn't for you, the tips and discussion we have is relevant for any challenges or healing anyone needs in their life. You will be touched, and your vibration will rise when you listen and share...
2023-08-151h 13
Practicing LifeEpisode 49 - Interview with Sara Intonato: Neurodiverse Kids & Having a Successful Business - Practicing Life Podcast with Ashley PitzerHear Sara Intonato's story as she shares what it is like to be a parent of a neurodiverse kid while running a successful Neurodiverse Parenting Consulting business. Her work helps kids, parents, and companies understand how to help neurodiverse kids thrive. She is changing this world for the better and giving us the tools to do more than survive parenting. Be sure to follow her and reach out to her if you are looking for a resource. I know I am looking forward to her book and her documentary. Remember, you are not alone, and anything is possible.
2022-12-301h 10The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhat to do if your child is being bullied by a teacherOn today's podcast episode we are talking about an uncomfortable and essential topic, and that is when your child is being bullied by their teacher.
For the context of this episode, I want to define bullying so that we are all on the same page.
A bully is described in the dictionary as a “blustering, mean, or predatory person who from a perceived position of relative power, intimidates, abuses, harasses, or coerces people. Especially those considered unlikely to defend themselves.”
There you have it, folks. It is implied in this context with the words a...
2022-10-0621 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhen overwhelm is how you operateIf I asked if you’re overwhelmed, you’d probably respond by saying, “Sara, I've got a kid with needs. My life is busy. I'm juggling so many things in addition to my other children, my home, my career. Of course, I'm overwhelmed, aren't you?”
The answer is no, I'm not overwhelmed because I support myself and manage my life, and that's something that has taken practice.
Overwhelm is a choice.
Please know that when I use the word overwhelm I am not judging you and I don't want you to judge yourself either. ...
2022-09-3017 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastRocco UpOn the podcast today we're diving into a topic that you've likely already heard about, especially if you've followed me on social media for any length of time. It's the new documentary film about my family called Rocco Up, and it's been a journey filled with lessons, relationships, and joy that I never imagined would be part of my life.
It's a project that we began almost three years ago. It started as just an idea to make a difference for other families living with autism. It's grown into a film that's entered into over 50 film festivals, an...
2022-09-2622 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhat does stress do to you?Some people wear their stress as a badge of honor, especially if they're wrapping up their self worth in how much they do during the day.
But the stress felt by parents of neurodiverse kids is very real and I want to discuss it.
So many of them wind up in my inbox asking, “Sara, what's wrong with me?”
“Why am I so drained?”
“Why am I losing my patience with my kids?”
“Why am I becoming the mom? Who's yelling at the end of the day? I don't want to be that...
2022-09-1614 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastDo you keep the promises you make to yourself?In today’s podcast episode I’m giving you a little glimpse into the lessons I’ve received in my own life recently. I know they will resonate with you in a big way.
This episode is centered around the fact that if you make a promise to someone else, you’re probably going to keep that promise. But what about the promises that you make to yourself?
So often people say things like, “When X, Y, Z happens, THEN I will go on vacation.”
Or, “when I retire, THEN I'll get healthy.”
“When kids...
2022-09-0916 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThis is your in case of emergency PodcastThis week’s podcast episode is your go-to when life is "lifing". Parenting a neurodiverse child can be intense. This episode will provide you with quick tools to help your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being on those really tough days (parent experiences them, even if they don’t want to admit it).
Dive into today’s episode to find out more.
2022-08-1113 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastConfessionIt’s not a four letter word, but it’s one that no parent wants to admit to feeling: trapped.
Most parents of neurodiverse, disabled, or medically complex children feel this way at some point in their journey and it’s no wonder. Your child’s needs demand more of your time, energy, and resources than those of neurotypical children. Factor in that your job, friends, and family probably expect a normal level of productivity and responsiveness from you and you pressure yourself to provide then. it’s no wonder your energy is zapped.
On today’s ep...
2022-07-2826 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhen is it important for you to be disruptive in service to your child's wellbeing?What do you think being "disruptive" means?
When is it important for you to be disruptive in service to your child's wellbeing?
On today's podcast episode I'm asking you to get curious around where in your life you need to be more disruptive for this purpose because there's a lot to lose if you don't.
An interesting trend I've noticed in the clients I work with (especially the women) is that they recognize they've been people pleasers their entire lives. They've recently realized that doing so is hurting their own well being because...
2022-07-2141 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhat you need to know about the CDC’s guidelines on milestonesOn today's podcast episode we’re looking at a topic that matters to you no matter how old your child is.
In February 2022 the CDC quietly changed their guidelines for three important milestones in childhood development and it rubbed many people the wrong way. Additionally, they did so without consulting professionals who work with children in a hands on fashion and it stirred up pushback from thousands of speech therapists and occupational therapists.
I have a very special guest, speech pathologist Brittany Bohach, joining me in this episode to ensure you receive both parent and pro...
2022-07-1537 min
The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastDoctor's Office TraumaOn today's podcast episode we are talking about doctor’s office trauma, a subject that doesn’t get much air time but can be deeply challenging for parents and children. Today, we’re discussing why and how this happens, what you can do to prevent it, and, most importantly, how you can heal from it and prevent the anxiety, stress, and fear from snowballing.
This is a topic turned out to be Pandora’s box for me. It was something I’d never heard about publicly, but when I began asking parents about it behind closed doors it became cl...
2022-07-0124 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastDo you avoid new things because you're afraid of what might go wrong?On today's podcast episode we are talking about an exciting topic that also feels scary. This is the topic around supporting your neurodiverse child undertaking new experiences no matter how old they are.
Of course, what is new and scary for each family is different. Some parents avoid taking their child to the grocery store, afraid they’ll have a meltdown in public. Others desire to bring their child on a family vacation but have no idea how to make it doable and enjoyable. I support families in climbing this new mountain, regardless of how easy or in...
2022-06-2331 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastFrom Survival Mode To Confidently Thriving: a Case Study Featuring Kelly AlifanoOn today's podcast episode I have the pleasure of interviewing Kelly Alifano, a mother of two amazing daughters whose confidence was crushed when she received both ADHD and visual processing disorder diagnoses for one of her girls less than 12 months ago. In her own words, Kelly said that on a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best), her self confidence was a 1 as she struggled to navigate this new and uncharted territory as a parent.
As you'll hear in this episode, Kelly's confidence is booming today. I'm excited for you to listen as she discusses how she leaned o...
2022-06-1650 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe result of parents not being supportedOn today's podcast episode we are having a frank conversation around what happens when parents of neurodiverse are not seen, heard, or provided with the tools they need.
Full disclosure: I get feisty in this episode. I actually had it outlined for weeks before I had the guts to record it because it felt so disruptive.
It is the result of many conversations I've had both online and in person with experts who work with neurodiverse individuals, therapists who counsel and support the parents of these individuals, and parents themselves.
If you’re truly...
2022-06-1322 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastInterview with Soma Mukhopadhyay, creator of Rapid Prompt MethodOn today's podcast episode I have the pleasure of interviewing the founder of the Rapid Prompt Method and one of my amazing teachers, Soma Mukhopadhyay.
Soma isn’t just a teacher and autism expert. She’s also a parent who, in her own words, was willing to “roll up her sleeves” and learn alongside her child to see what worked for him. In doing so, she’s become a trailblazer with much wisdom to share. It’s an honor to share this interview with you and I encourage you to listen all the way to the end, as the persp...
2022-06-0336 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastPTSD in Parents is RealOn today's podcast episode I have the pleasure of interviewing a powerful mom, attorney, and hypnotherapist, Kelly Greene.
All I can say about this conversation is the gloves came off! Kelly and I had an honest conversation about acting from a place of empowerment as a parent of a neurodiverse child, while acknowledging the trauma you’ve experienced along the way.
Kelly has a beautiful daughter who has a neurodiverse brain too, and we had a frank conversation that covered so many things that parents just like you are facing daily and the tools you can...
2022-05-3155 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastAnother Tool In The Tool BoxOn today's podcast episode we are going to talk about the newest tool in our family’s toolbox to help Rocco live an independent life, and it’s cuter and more fun than any other: Rocco's new service dog, Oakley!
We have had Oakley for approximately 3 weeks and he has already made a huge impact on our lives. We figured he’d be supportive for Rocco but never imagined how healing he’d be for the rest of us.
He’s not just an emotional support dog, he’s a working service dog who’s fully trained to...
2022-05-2019 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe biggest mindset block special needs parents are facingOn today's podcast episode we're talking about the biggest mindset blocks parents face when raising a special needs child and it’s not what you think.
It’s sneaky, insidious, and very often imposed on you by others. The great news is you get to choose whether you take it on as your own. Much like a gift you’ve been given, you get to decide whether to receive it or send it back.
Admittedly, it took me a while to uncover this mindset issue since it’s not one I struggle with personally. Call me a Pol...
2022-05-1216 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe real question every parent wants an answer toLet’s cut to the chase. The only reason you’re listening to this or any other parenting podcast is because you want to know one thing: how can I make my parenting journey easier?
On today's podcast episode I have a very special guest Lida Schneider, an expert in Human Design, discussing how discovering this tool and making it part of her daily life transformed her entire family and brought more ease to their daily life.
It can transform your life too.
Dive into today’s episode to find out more.
2022-04-2845 min
Finding Harmony PodcastSara Intonato: Learning To ThriveOur guest today is heroic. Not in the mud defending your country from oligarchic fascist kind of way, but no less important and no less difficult. Sara is an old friend whom we met in Mysore, India, back in 2005. Approximately five years after this first trip to Mysore, she gave birth to her oldest child, who is now just over 12 years old. All was typically normal… in a typical new mom, “this is insanely impossible” kind of way. But, then Rocco developed symptoms of autism. Doctors informed her that he was “nonverbal” and may never interact in an understandable way. Sara...
2022-04-172h 19The Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhen family fun time isn't actually funWhat does your family's fun time say about you?
One of the most profound and also heartbreaking trends with special needs families is that they don't have much joyful time together.
This is not a shock to me because if you look at human psychology, including Maslow's hierarchy of needs, many of these families are still in survival mode (or inconsistently moving in and out of it).
Naturally, survival needs are going to overcome those of simply having fun together.
And yet you deserve to have fun in your life and...
2022-04-1415 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhat are you committed to?On today's podcast episode I'm supporting you in asking some major questions about your parenting journey.
There's no question that parenting requires commitment. Parenting a neurodiverse child even more so.
Yet, there are many pieces of your parenting journey that would be MUCH easier if you actually committed to doing them.
Triggered? Good, keep reading because it's not what you think.
For example, I'm sure you know tons of people who are "interested" in improving their fitness. They talk about going to the gym, buy new clothes, and even book the me...
2022-04-0725 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastHow to rebound when your IEP meeting doesn't go in your favorOn today's podcast episdoe we are going to discusss what to do if your child's IEP meeting does not result in the way you wanted it to.
Sometimes you go to your kids’ IEP meeting and everything transpires beautifully. You happily sign off on the dotted line at the end of the meeting and then carry on with your daily life.
Other times the outcome of the district meeting does not feel like it's in support of your child's wellbeing.
In that moment you have to ask yourself, “where do I go from here as...
2022-03-3114 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastIt’s IEP meeting season, whether you like it or notOn today's podcast episode we’re talking about there good, the bad, and the ugly of IEP season. Most parents I speak with approach it feeling a combination of dread, anxiety, and worry that the outcome won’t be one that truly supports their child’s growth.
Trust me, I’ve been there!
My child’s IEP meetings are very different now (thankfully), and I’m here to share with you how you can approach them with confidence and be the bold advocate your child needs you to be.
I want ALL the neurodiverse p...
2022-03-2518 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe parenting obstacle nobody’s talking aboutOn today's podcast episode I'm going to talk about a challenge that touches almost every family that I work with, in to my own.
Out of all the families I’ve worked with to date, I can think of only one that has not struggled with this challenge.
What’s the obstacle? One parent (usually the mom) acts as the leader for the child’s journey of advocacy, support, logistical management and emotional heavy lifting while the other parent is the less involved follower.
It leads to resentment and frustration on behalf of the fatig...
2022-03-1920 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe Real Cost of Raising A Neurodiverse ChildOn today's podcast episode we are getting real about the cost of autism and neurodiversities and how the costs associated with having a unique child is have a real effect on families.
The time and energy that go into caring for unique child is just the beginning.
The average cost of autism per family that lives in the United States is an estimated $60,000 per year. This number has tripled since 2006.
On average, parents, especially mothers of children with autism, work fewer hours per week in order to be with their child and earn 56% le...
2022-03-1016 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe Powerful Communication Tool that Can Change Your LifeOn today's podcast episode we're looking into a highly effective communication tool that you've probably never even heard about!
This tool is incredibly powerful for people who are non-speaking/non-verbal, but also supportive for those who can speak but are distracted with sensory issues or intense ADHD.
This tool is called Rapid Prompt Method (RPM). It came into my life years ago, but only recently did I become a certified practitioner myself (because I was tired of searching for an available practitioner to magically appear to help my child). It has been one of the mo...
2022-03-0328 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastHave you really been 100% honest with yourself?Today’s podcast episode applies to you regardless of your child’s diagnosis.
Maybe he or she hasn’t even been evaluated yet. Maybe your child has undergone testing and doesn’t quite fit into any box, but you are seeing evidence in your life that is putting your parent antennae up. You belong here too.
Today's topic is a trend that I've been seeing across the board with this population of parents to neurodiverse children.
It's a trend that I find problematic. I also relate to it very much because I've seen in my own l...
2022-02-2416 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastThe Truth About Self Stimulatory Behaviors (Stimming)On today's podcast episode we are taking a closer look as self stimulatory behaviors, or “stimming.”
This is one of the biggest concerns parents feel self conscious about when I speak with them in my consulting practice.
They wonder if it's okay to let their child engage in self stimulatory behaviors, because there are different schools of thought around whether it's helpful or harmful. Many parents worry where the line is between a stim and an OCD tendency. Others notice it’s become crutch to keep their child calm and they don't know how to get rid o...
2022-02-1720 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastAssumptions You Want to MakeIf you’re like me you grew up hearing the phrase, “Don’t assume, because it makes and ass out of you and me!” Even saying it now causes me to flash back to my mom shaking her finger in my face (hahahaha, love you mom).
Today, I’m going to flip the script and tell you that there are a few key assumptions that you WANT to make when encountering an individual with unique needs, especially adults.
The catalyst for this episode is that I've had the pleasure of recently having powerful conversations with certified behaviori...
2022-02-0317 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhat Are You Making Your Child's Journey MeanWhen your child has a “bad day,” what are you making it mean about YOU as a parent?
A mentor of mine is always reminding his students that humans are meaning making machines. We color everything with our meaning.
If you sit down to really look at the meanings you're putting onto your child's journey (or your own, for that matter), you might be surprised at how many of them are actually interpretations vs. how many are REALLY true.
For example, what's true about me in this moment? Am I a good mom? Well...
2022-01-1414 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastAre you getting pulled out of your IntuitionToday's podcast episode might sound a little "woo woo" at first, but stay with me! It's actually the catalyst for making powerful shifts as you step up and lead your family.
It's the power of noticing when you've disconnected from your intuition, and it's often hard for people to measure.
Why is it even important to talk about this? Because at some point ALL of my clients have come to me and said, verbatim, "Sara, am I going crazy?"
They ask me if they're crazy for knowing that something's going on with their k...
2022-01-0618 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastHow Can You Feel Your Emotions Without Them Taking You Down, with Lisa CarpenterOn today's podcast episode I am joined by the amazing Lisa Carpenter. She is one of the most powerful transformational coaches I've ever met.
I’m also blessed to call her my dear friend.
Lisa’s wisdom as a coach runs deep. In addition to 20 years if experience, she specializes in emotional resiliency with powerful results.
Oh, and while most people were eating garbage and gaining their Covid 15, she opted to immerse herself in intense training and took the stage as a fitness pro (she won that competition, of course).
But life is...
2021-12-3151 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastCord Cutting MeditationToday's episode is going to be key in helping you untangle yourself from others’ emotions, energy, and drama.
In this podcast episode I’m gifting you a meditation that I prescribe to many of my clients on a regular basis, and it is a meditation for cord cutting.
You might be thinking, what is cord cutting?
Cord cutting is a powerful meditative exercise you can do when you're finding yourself stuck in someone else's stuff, whether they’re an energy vampire or just someone you need to distance yourself from, physically or energetically.
...
2021-12-2316 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastOvercoming Your Excuses with Eliza MironOn today's podcast episode I have a very special guest, Eliza Miron.
Eliza is not just a client of mine, but also someone who I really admire.
Eliza is both a devoted a yoga practitioner and teacher, and also a streak runner. She has run for over 7,000 days, consecutively without stopping for any reason at all! Yes, you read that right. Seven THOUSAND days straight, including the days she gave birth (Eliza’s a single mother of two young boys).
So all the moms listening, we know how busy you are! Eliza juggles the...
2021-12-1751 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastWhy Support Groups Don't WorkOn today's podcast episode we’re diving into an edgy topic: why support groups don't work and what you can do instead.
This episode might ruffle your feathers, because I'm calling out ALL the problems with them today.
If you've been pushed to try support groups as a solution to the daily challenges you face you're probably thinking, “Crap! What do I do now?”
Don’t fret. I’d never leave you hanging.
In the second half of this episode there will be a heavy focus on what you can do instead to empo...
2021-12-1021 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastGrounding yourself in a high stakes situationOn today's podcast episode we’re addressing one of the most frequently asked questions I receive.
“How do I ground and center myself in the middle of a high stakes situation?”
High stakes moments can translate to a LOT of stress, especially when it impacts your child's schooling, health, or emotional well-being.
When I left teaching yoga full-time, I figured I’d no longer teach the skills I have learned in my 20 years on the mat.
The joke was on me!
I find myself talking about yoga principles on the regula...
2021-12-0333 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastStrategies to make your holidays go smoothlyThe holidays can be a time of stress and chaos for most families. Add in Neurodiversity, sensory issues, noise sensitivity, dietary concerns, and poof! You have a holiday recipe for disaster if you’re not prepared.
The goos news is YOU get to decide what your holiday season will look like for your family. Identifying your needs, placing boundaries around them, and enforcing them hard core might sound intimidating, but it will allow you preserve your holiday joy and minimize stress.
And that’s priceless.
What actionable steps do you need to take to e...
2021-11-1810 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastAre you tangling up your self worth in your child's journey?On today's podcast episode we're diving into what it looks like when you're tangling up your own self-worth and your child's journey.
Full transparency, this used to be me.
Even though I had been practicing yoga and intense spiritual devotion for many years, I didn't even realize I was doing this until my coach called me out on it.
How did it show up in my life?
-I’d feel sad when Rocco had an off day and use it as an excuse to flog myself mentally, allowing the "you're not go...
2021-11-1114 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastParenting a unique child doesn't have to take a toll on your marriage with Padma AliOn today's podcast episode I'm here with a dear friend and colleague Padma Ali. Padma is a brilliant coach and a healer, and she has a unique perspective after working for 20 years as a marital counselor. It's an immense honor to have her as a guest on today's episode, which I know will support many people.
There's a lot of talk in autism communities that the strains of parenting a unique child result in an 80% divorce rate. Ouch! While this statistic is often disputed, any parent on an autism journey can tell you they carry far more re...
2021-11-0539 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastSimple Steps To Creating More Joy In Your Life with Chelsea ArnsOn today's podcast I have a very special guest, the brilliant Chelsea Arns. She’s a mother of three and a 7 figure business owner. In this episode she candidly shared that she used to be “the mom who yelled every night.”
The real reason Chelsea is here today is to tell you how she stopped being THAT mom and started creating a daily life filled with joy. She’s passionate about making spiritual growth tangible and doable, no matter how busy you are.
Come find out more about how Chelsea’s story can help you on the lat...
2021-10-2838 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastSimple Strategies for Successful Travel with your Child with AutismEvery time I meet a loving family that tells me they want to travel with their unique child but instead stay home because they’re too scared of what could go wrong, my heart breaks a little.
You deserve to have family vacations without worry. And you can.
In today’s episode we’re examining simple buy highly effective strategies for successful travel with your child on the spectrum.
I have two children, one who with ASD and one who is neuro-typical. These powerful strategies I'm sharing with you today make travel smooth sailing w...
2021-10-2131 minThe Full Potential: Thriving with Neurodiversities PodcastIt's Time to Trust Your Gut FeelingsToday's episode is a powerful and important one, all about how dismissing your mother’s (or father’s) intuition is hurting your child's trajectory, especially if you're suspecting that your child has unique needs.
I almost titled this episode. “Am I crazy?” because that is the phrase I hear from every single mom who crosses my proverbial door step. They are smart, confident, and empowered decision makers.
Yet, when they arrive at my proverbial doorstep, they question themselves in SO MANY WAYS. Even though they know beyond a shadow of a doubt that their child has something...
2021-10-1420 min