Shows
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Dianne Greeley: Redefining Advocacy for mental health reformIn this episode of 'Why Not Me,' Tony Mantor hosts Dianne Greeley, who shares her firsthand experiences and challenges in advocating for mental health reform.
Dianne recounts the struggles her loved one faced with severe mental illness and the inadequate support from health and legal systems.
She discusses the journey from personal caretaker to passionate advocate, emphasizing the need for greater awareness, education, and systemic change.
Her story highlights the human impact of untreated mental illness and the importance of compassion and involuntary treatment where necessary.
Dianne's Personal Story
The Struggles and Decline2025-07-3124 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Why Not Me ? The Power of Shared Experiences in Autism and Mental HealthSend us a text
"Why Not Me?" podcast expands its mission to embrace both autism and mental health worldwide, creating a platform for raw, authentic storytelling that inspires and connects.
Host Tony Mantor welcomes listeners to join a global movement fostering awareness, acceptance, and understanding through powerful personal narratives.
• Broadcasting from Nashville, Tennessee with a mission to share powerful stories
• Expanding focus to include both autism and mental health following 61 impactful episodes
• Commitment to raw, authentic storytelling that educates and heals
• Special events planned, including collaboration with Humanity Over Handcuffs
•...2025-06-0202 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Country Music Meets Compassion: How Artists Are Making a Difference for AutismSend us a text
Tony Mantor hosts a special remote podcast from Nashville Palace supporting "An Acoustic Evening for Autism." Country music artists Daryl Worley and Dillon Massengale share their personal connections to autism awareness and how music has become a platform for making a difference.
• Daryl Worley explains how friends with an autistic child inspired his commitment to the cause
• Worley discusses establishing his foundation and the challenges of fundraising for charitable causes
• Finding purpose through helping others becomes a central theme of Worley's career journey
• Dillon Massengale shares his story of being...2025-04-1416 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the GapSend us a text
Jerry Turning shares his journey from veteran police officer to autism advocate after his son's diagnosis, creating Blue Bridge Autism Training to educate first responders about autism.
His unique perspective bridges the gap between law enforcement and the autism community, helping prevent dangerous misunderstandings during crisis situations.
• Turning spent 22 of his 25-year police career as a canine handler before his son's autism diagnosis changed everything
• Police often misinterpret autism behaviors as intoxication, evasiveness, or defiance due to lack of training
• Turning teaches officers to recognize autism indicators like s...2025-04-0429 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on AutismSend us a text
Dr. Theresa Haskins shares her journey from a mother seeking answers for her autistic son to becoming an educator and researcher dedicated to creating more inclusive systems for neurodivergent individuals.
Her experiences navigating medical dismissals, educational barriers, and workplace challenges illuminate how society needs to fundamentally shift its approach to neurodiversity.
• Mother of a "thrice exceptional" son (autistic, ADHD, and gifted) who could count to 100 at age two but wasn't speaking conversationally
• Left special education program after realizing conventional teaching approaches didn't align with her son's needs
• Pursue...2025-04-0330 min
Tony Mantor's : Almost Live..... NashvilleThe Jethro Tull Story: 56 Years of Progressive RockTony Mantor welcomes rock legend Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull to discuss the band's remarkable 56-year journey and their ongoing musical evolution since forming in 1967.• The real story behind the Jethro Tull band name: named after an 18th century agriculturist by a booking agent• How several band members from Anderson's high school days eventually reunited in Jethro Tull between 1969-1972• George Martin's influential advice to Anderson that he could produce his own records• Anderson's preference for intimate theater venues over massive arenas despite their commercial success• Reflections on iconic songs including Aqualung, Locomotive Breath, an...2025-04-0222 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court ProgramSend us a text
Judge Sonny Bailey shares how she created the nation's only court dedicated to helping autistic youth stay out of the criminal justice system.
What began in 2018 as a quieter courtroom for one overwhelmed teen has evolved into an innovative program with a 90% success rate, recently recognized through Nevada legislation as the country's first official neurodiversity specialty court.
• Autism court began accidentally when officers brought in an overwhelmed teen who needed a quieter environment
• Program uses applied behavioral analysis and positive reinforcement instead of punishment
• Success looks different for ea...2025-04-0228 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive CommunitySend us a text
What if discovering your true self could transform your entire life journey?
Join me, Tony Mantor, as I sit down with the insightful Gabriella Russo for a powerful discussion on self-discovery and acceptance within the autistic community.
Gabriella shares her personal narrative, revealing how her godchild's involvement with an autism support group prompted her own recognition of being autistic. Through her candid reflections, she recounts overcoming challenges like an abusive marriage and workplace bullying, ultimately embracing her identity and finding solace in self-diagnosis and community support.
Gabriella's story is a...2025-03-2627 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Why Not Me the World Humanity Over Handcuffs the Special Event for AprilSend us a text
Hi, I'm Tony Mantor.
Imagine a world where the rules don't bend.
Where justice feels like a maze with no exit.
For autistic people navigating the legal system, this is not imagination. It's reality. Picture your autistic son or daughter tangled in the legal system or an officer at your door because a meltdown was misunderstood.
Imagine a loved one walking through a park, having a meltdown, which is mistaken for something much worse, a drug overdose.
This Autism Awareness Month, we're bringing...2025-03-2100 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental HealthSend us a text
Jess Tuff shares her emotional journey as a mother advocating for her autistic daughter while navigating the education system and societal stigma. Her story emphasizes the importance of understanding, acceptance, and the changes needed in how we approach autism, advocating for empathy and resources for families still facing challenges.
• Jess’s experience in special education and her daughter's diagnosis
• The significant role of therapy for both parent and child
• Challenges with educators and the impact of stigma
• The importance of individual support and understanding
• Family dynamics and sibling relationship...2025-03-1927 minTony Mantor's : Almost Live..... NashvilleAnson Williams: Music, Directing, and Entrepreneurship: How He Built a Multi-Faceted CareerTony Mantor sits down with Anson Williams, the unforgettable star from Happy Days, for a fascinating journey through his multifaceted career in entertainment and the stories that shaped his path to success.• Started as a passionate singer with no formal acting training before landing his role on Happy Days• Entrepreneurially introduced music into Happy Days, leading to record deals and $17,000 per night concert gigs• Encountered John Lennon and his son Julian who crashed the Happy Days set, creating lasting memories• Formed deep bonds with castmates through their charity softball team, playing at major stadiums worldwid...2025-03-1826 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and InsightSend us a text
Lady Miranda shares her journey as an autistic artist navigating the music industry while managing sensory overload and performance challenges. Through her experiences, she emphasizes the importance of understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity in society.
• Being an autistic artist comes with unique challenges
• Travel can induce sensory overload and anxiety
• Performance preparation is crucial for managing stage anxiety
• Meltdowns can occur due to stress or overstimulation
• Late diagnosis in adulthood is common in women
• Family support often lacks understanding of autism
• Advocacy for changing societal perceptions of...2025-03-1225 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Emma Textra: Transforming Health Challenges into Holistic Advocacy – Supporting Neurodiverse Adolescence Through Nutrition and Natural InterventionsSend us a text
What happens when a corporate professional turns a personal health crisis into a transformative journey of healing and understanding?
Join us as we explore Emma Textra's remarkable story, where her corporate acumen meets her passion for holistic health to better support her autistic son. Emma's shift from conventional medicine to embracing dietary changes, nutrient therapy, and supplements is a testament to the power of addressing the whole body.
Her insights and experiences uncover the intricate connections between physical and mental health, offering a new perspective on managing Asperger's and ADHD.
2025-03-0625 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community SupportSend us a text
Dr. Tina J Ramsey shares her profound journey of navigating autism with her son, emphasizing the essential role of empathy, advocacy, and communication. Her insights encourage parents to support their children with understanding, while providing valuable resources for navigating adulthood.
• Discusses personal experiences and emotions surrounding autism diagnosis
• Emphasizes the importance of communication for children on the spectrum
• Shares challenges faced in traditional schooling and the decision to homeschool
• Explores bullying and the impact on emotional well-being
• Highlights the significance of understanding during puberty and teenage years
• Advocates fo...2025-02-2828 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness EffortsSend us a text
What if your curiosity led you to an unexpected career path that changes lives every day?
Lisa Kuntz, the inspiring director of the Pierce Autism Center at Touro University, shares her remarkable journey into autism support and education with us.
Starting with a chance role at the university, Lisa's commitment to understanding the unique challenges faced by autistic individuals has helped pave the way for improved insurance coverage and advocacy efforts. Y
et, despite these strides, she unveils the persistent barriers families encounter in securing timely assistance and highlights the...2025-02-2028 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse IndividualsSend us a text
Imagine meeting a neurologist who changes not only your perspective but the entire trajectory of your family's journey.
That's precisely what happened to Mike Ghesser, co-founder of CleanLogic, when his daughter Rosie was diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition at just three months old.
In this heartfelt episode, we explore how that pivotal moment led Mike and his wife to become devoted, therapy-focused parents, ultimately inspiring the creation of CleanLogic—a company that champions inclusivity by offering meaningful employment opportunities to individuals with disabilities.
Our conversation continues with a deep di...2025-02-1527 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive ExpressionSend us a text
What if theater could unlock new dimensions of communication for individuals with autism?
Join us as we sit down with the remarkable Dr. Blythe Corbett, a trailblazer from Vanderbilt University Medical Center, who has seamlessly intertwined her love for performance with her cutting-edge research in autism.
Through the pioneering work of Sense Theater, a nonprofit she founded in 2009, Dr. Corbett has transformed the landscape of social communication interventions, using the power of theater to foster personal growth and social skills in hundreds of participants.
Her journey, marked...2025-02-1328 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across AmericaSend us a text
Join us for a compelling conversation with Gabriela Salcido, a trailblazer in autism services and the founder of the Roman Empire Agency.
Discover the challenges and triumphs of expanding vital support networks across state lines, as Gabriela shares her journey from a dedicated social worker in California to leading a multi-state agency.
Learn about the pressing need for uniform service provision nationwide to better serve families facing long waiting lists and hurdles in obtaining autism diagnoses for their children.
Our discussion takes a heartfelt dive into the life stages...2025-02-0627 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Rose Griffin:The Path to Inclusive Support and Autism AwarenesSend us a text
Explore the transformative journey of Rose Griffin, a dedicated speech-language pathologist and board-certified behavior analyst, as she sheds light on the evolving landscape of autism awareness and support.
From a serendipitous high school career assessment that led her to speech therapy, Rose reflects on her 20-year commitment to empowering individuals with autism, especially those who are non-verbal.
Her work at the Cleveland Clinic's Learner School has been pivotal, and she shares her insights on the increasing awareness and understanding of autism over the years.
Throughout our conversation, Rose and...2025-01-3025 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Kory Andreas Shares Insights on Neurodiversity and Self-RealizationSend us a text
What happens when a dedicated school social worker and loving mother discovers her own autism diagnosis later in life?
Meet Kory Andreas, a therapist whose personal and professional journeys provide profound insights into neurodiversity and autism.
Kory's transition from the public education system to private practice was deeply influenced by her experiences with her daughter's early autism diagnosis and her own self-discovery.
Her story sheds light on the systemic challenges faced by educators and families, particularly regarding the identification and support of neurodivergent students.
Uncover the intricate layers...2025-01-2328 minTony Mantor's : Almost Live..... NashvilleJeff Wayne's Journey Into the Timeless Legacy of "The War of the WorldsHave you ever wondered how a rock opera becomes a timeless classic? Join me, Tony Mantor, as I sit down with the legendary Jeff Wayne, the genius composer behind the 1978 rock opera adaptation of H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds." In this episode, Jeff opens up about his fascinating transition from an aspiring journalist to a renowned musician, revealing how his childhood piano lessons ignited a passion that would shape his future. We explore his early music industry experiences, including a stint with The Sandpipers, and how his father's entertainment career provided a blueprint for su...2025-01-2228 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?BONUS EPISODE: John Rushton: Navigating Human Emotions and the Power of StorytellingSend us a text
What if you could navigate the complexities of human emotion with the guidance of a warm, non-judgmental figure? J
oin us as we welcome emotions expert and seasoned traveler John Rushton, who shares his unique creation, Auntie Bronwyn, a fictional character beloved by many for her empathetic insights.
Drawing from his extensive travels, John reveals how Auntie Bronwyn helps individuals from all walks of life embrace their emotions and embark on a journey of self-discovery. T
hrough his latest book, "The Anthology of Antti Bromwen," and engaging radio stories, John...2025-01-1629 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Loveartpix: Overcoming Autism Stigmas, Embracing Artistic Expression, and Advocating for Neurodivergent InclusionSend us a text
Award-winning multimedia artist Dez, also known as Loveartpix, joins us to share his remarkable journey of living with autism and challenging societal misconceptions.
With a confident demeanor that often leads others to question his diagnosis, Dez opens up about the emotional hurdles and stigmas he faces.
Through his story, we aim to foster a greater understanding of neurodivergence and emphasize the importance of supporting individuals on the autism spectrum. Dez's experience sheds light on the diverse spectrum of autism, encouraging listeners to rethink preconceived notions and embrace a more inclusive perspective.2025-01-0927 minTony Mantor's : Almost Live..... NashvilleJason Gould: Music, Storytelling, and the Shadow of FameEver wondered what it's like to grow up with some of the most famous parents in Hollywood? Join us as we chat with Jason Gould, son of Barbra Streisand and Elliot Gould, as he opens up about his life under the spotlight. Jason shares his journey from his early interest in filmmaking to his eventual passion for music, navigating the complexities of fame with a discerning eye. Despite the pressure of living up to his parents' legacies, Jason reveals how he found his own path and the pivotal role storytelling has played throughout his career.Our c...2025-01-0824 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Tanya's Journey Across Europe for Autism Advocacy and Inclusive EducationSend us a text
Imagine uprooting your life multiple times for the love of your child.
This episode brings you an inspiring narrative of Tanya and her niece Dara, who embarked on a journey from Bulgaria to Belgium in search of better educational opportunities for Tanya's autistic son, Radi.
We hear about the challenges and victories as Tanya relentlessly pursued a nurturing environment for Radin, moving through Slovakia and the Czech Republic before finally settling in Belgium.
Radi's story is a testament to the power of perseverance, music's comforting embrace, and the profound impact...2025-01-0224 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Tony Mantor: Sharing Stories of Resilience and Hope – Fostering Autism Awareness and Mental Health Advocacy from NashvilleSend us a text
This episode focuses on the power of storytelling and its role in promoting awareness around autism and mental health during the holiday season. Reflecting on connection and community, we invite listeners to engage and share their experiences.
• Celebrating the impact of shared stories
• Upcoming initiatives for autism and mental health awareness
• Importance of community engagement and storytelling
• Encouragement to spread the word about the podcast's mission
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https://youtube...2024-12-2602 minTony Mantor: Why Not Me ?Dr. Sanam Hafiz: Unfolding Neuropsychology – From Holistic Profiling to Navigating Adulthood Challenges in Autism and GiftednessSend us a text
Unlock the secrets of the mind with our esteemed guest, Dr. Sanam Hafiz, a leading neuropsychologist renowned for her work in trauma, ADHD, learning difficulties, and autism.
Join us as Dr. Hafiz unfolds her intriguing journey into neuropsychology, revealing a methodology that transcends traditional diagnostic approaches.
She shares how she crafts a holistic profile for each individual by considering family history, environmental factors, and detailed collaborations with educators. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on the vital role genetics play in mental health, applicable to all ages.
The conversation...2024-12-1927 min