Shows
Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaWho Will Look After Your Dependents When You’re Gone? Conversation with Jeff Stinson (Part Two)I continue my important discussion with lawyer Jeff Stinson this week in part two, where we dig deeper into the complexities of guardianship issues, particularly concerning individuals with autism, ADHD, and other disabilities, and the unsettling national conversations around these topics. We discuss the historical and contemporary aspects of guardianship, the importance of alternatives to family guardians, and the resources available in Indiana. Jeff and I talk about special needs trusts, ABLE accounts, and the critical need for early and proactive planning for the futures of special needs individuals. ...2025-07-2552 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaEssential Legal Strategies for Families with Special Needs. Conversation with Jeff Stinson (Part One)My conversation this week is with lawyer Jeff Stinson of Stinson Law Firm, in Carmel, Indiana. Jeff specializes in Elder Law, and has a particular interest in how it applies to parents and caregivers of children with autism, and the broader disability community.Jeff emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, especially when a child with disabilities approaches the age of 18. He shares insights into Medicaid waivers, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and the new supportive decision-making framework, while also highlighting the challenges and solutions related to transitioning to adulthood. Jeff...2025-07-1854 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaNoble: 70+ Years of Dedication to Community and Inclusion. Conversation with Molly LangNoble is a landmark organization and support system in central and eastern Indiana, dedicated to expanding opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families through individualized services.Molly Lang is Director of Therapy Services, and joins me today to talk about how Noble has grown and evolved over the past 70 years. Originally started as a school, they now have several branches that provide services for adults with IDD. Some of their branches offer services to children, and Noble also provide autism services like ABA.2025-07-1146 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaAutism, Advocacy, and American Ideals. Conversation with Sarah McCorkle (Part Three)For Part Three of our conversation with Sarah McCorkle, our discussion centers on autism, genetic testing, and the emotions and ethical considerations faced by parents. We look at the fear of misuse of genetic data, distrust in political figures like RFK, government involvement in medical decisions, and the balance between scientific advancement and privacy concerns. The importance of community support, parental advocacy, and the need for society to become more inclusive of autistic individuals is paramount. Our conversation also touches on broader social and political issues, emphasizing the importance...2025-07-0435 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaWe’ve Got Our Diagnosis. Now What? Conversation with Sarah McCorkle (Part Two)Activist and organizer Sarah McCorkle joins me for this series of conversations on autism and community. We had lots to cover, and are ever-conscious of the time of busy parents so we've split it into three parts!Sarah, with her mother, runs the 'We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym' in Carmel, Indiana, a place for sensory-seekers, but moreover, a space for any and all children to interact with one another. It's so important for both neurodivergent and neurotypical children to play together and learn from each other. Sarah emphasizes...2025-06-2750 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America"Autism Looks Different for Everyone." Conversation with Sarah McCorkle (Part One)Activist and organizer Sarah McCorkle joins me for this series of conversations on autism and community. We had lots to cover, and are ever-conscious of the time of busy parents so we've split it into three parts!Sarah, with her mother, runs the 'We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym' in Carmel, Indiana, a place for sensory-seekers, but moreover, a space for any and all children to interact with one another. It's so important for both neurodivergent and neurotypical children to play together and learn from each other. Sarah emphasizes...2025-06-2048 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America"Where is our Empathy?" Conversation with Mira Hall (Part Two)Mira and I pick up from where we left off in part one, after a break for a coffee refresh and to stretch our legs. Remember to look after yourself and take the time you need to be productive and effective activists.Mira shares some more of her personal story with chronic illness. We talk about military veterans, disability rights and complex medical conditions. Gay rights, advocacy and stepping up to the fight.Like in part one, where we explored the question of rights and respect, in part two...2025-06-131h 22Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America"Beating the Drum: Standing up for our Rights." Conversation with Mira Hall (Part One)I'm joined by fellow activist Mira Hall for a wide-ranging discussion on identity, respect, recognition, neurodiversity, activism, and most importantly: the nature of human rights.From religion to education, behavioral health, mental health, HIV/AIDS, the political climate, gender identity, school bullying, American values, patriotism, genetic testing, chronic illness - we cover a lot. And yet underpinning it all is the question of, "What it means to be a good human." How we treat each other, especially the most vulnerable. What do we want this country to stand for?2025-06-061h 20Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaMedical Complexities and Medicaid, Conversation with Jamie OlsonJamie Olson of Uniquely You Indiana joins us today for a conversation about navigating medical changes and complexities with autism, and the role that Medicaid plays in getting the support and resources your family needs.Uniquely You is a monthly magazine written by families, caregivers and individuals with special needs. Filled with resources and great information to celebrate, impact and connect the community together.Jamie shares her deeply personal journey of raising a child with severe autism and epilepsy, her path to launching Uniquely You magazine, and her mission...2025-05-301h 12Staring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America"Is It Safe, First?" Conversation with Marya Sherron, Part TwoTabitha and Marya continue their conversation from Part 1 in this heartfelt discussion on autism and neurodiversity. Drawing from personal experiences, they cover the challenges and misconceptions surrounding autism, emphasizing the importance of individuality in understanding and managing it. They highlight the significance of asking questions without fear and fostering genuine connections. Marya shares insights from her book, "What If My Pieces Don't Fit", and their joint efforts toward creating safer, more inclusive community spaces. This episode encourages viewers to seek community, share their stories...2025-05-2347 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in America"Never Back Down From Advocacy," Conversation with Marya Sherron, Part OneJoin host Tabitha Zeigler and special guest Marya Sherron as they discuss the challenges, triumphs, and advocacy work within the autism and neurodivergent community. Marya shares her personal journey of parenting her two sons, exploring the gaps in resources, the importance of early intervention, and the critical need for better support systems for families. Learn about the significance of accurate diagnosis, supportive legislation, and the mission to create not just spaces but places where neurodivergent individuals can thrive. This episode emphasizes the power of...2025-05-1355 minStaring Down the Storm: Autism Advocacy in AmericaStaring Down the Storm: The New Podcast on Autism Advocacy in AmericaParent and autism caregiver Tabitha Zeigler hosts this fiery, truth-packed podcast filled with people doing the work in the trenches for autism and neurodiversity advocacy. These everyday heroes are leading the way for the next generation. At a time when so much is at stake, ordinary individuals rise up to fill the inequalities in our society. Join us in our struggles and triumphs while trying to provide resources, access, and programs for all. We welcome you to the fight.------Visit colortheexperience...2025-05-1305 min