Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communica...
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Send us a textImagine 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 dive into the world of inclusive education. Mike shares his family's experiences moving from Los Angeles to Philadelphia to find the best resources for Rosie, highlighting the power of an educational environment where students with disabilities learn alongside their neurotypical peers. Through these stories, we emphasize the importance of focusing on abilities rather than differences and the broader societal changes needed to foster true inclusivity and accessibility in everyday life. Finally, we explore how Mike's personal journey has translated into groundbreaking employment initiatives at CleanLogic. Driven by a partnership with Isaac Shapiro and inspired by Rosie's progress, Mike discusses how the company has adapted roles to leverage the unique skills of individuals with disabilities. From sewing to manufacturing, we showcase the potential unlocked when people are given the right opportunities and support. This episode is a powerful testament to the transformative impact of shared experiences and the stories that inspire us to believe in our capacity to change the world, one inclusive action at a time.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
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Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Send us a textWhat 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 by perseverance and innovation, has garnered significant recognition, including prestigious grants from the National Institute of Mental Health, showcasing the profound impact of blending science and the arts.This episode also takes you behind the scenes of Sense Theater's expansion plans, where inclusivity and creative expression are at the forefront. Through engaging productions, participants tackle themes of belonging, acceptance, and diversity, creating a tapestry of collaboration among individuals from diverse backgrounds. We delve into the thoughtful strategies implemented to support autistic individuals, such as managing anxiety and sensory overload, and the fun, engaging activities like improvisation and joke-telling that teach social cues and body language. Wrapping up, we reflect on the empowering conversations shared and extend an invitation to listeners who might have their own stories and insights to contribute.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
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Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Send us a textJoin 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 of children with developmental disabilities. From initial diagnosis to the transition into adulthood, Gabriela emphasizes the importance of early interventions like speech and behavioral therapies. As children grow, the focus shifts to developing adaptive skills and exploring supported living options, while the necessity of conservatorship ensures continuous advocacy for their needs beyond age 18. Through a personalized approach, Gabriela's agency collaborates with families to tailor individualized service plans, ensuring every child’s unique needs are met.In the final part of our episode, Gabriela sheds light on the ambitious national expansion of her agency. Facing challenges such as state credentialing and insurance approvals, she remains committed to making autism services accessible across the U.S. Gabriela also highlights exciting partnerships, including one with the Arizona Cardinals, to foster community support. Tune in to hear her passion for helping families and her vision for a future where no one feels alone, and learn how you can support this mission.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
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Rose Griffin:The Path to Inclusive Support and Autism Awarenes
Send us a textExplore 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 I tackle the intricacies of supporting autistic individuals, emphasizing the importance of nurturing positive relationships and employing child-led methods. We confront the controversies surrounding ABA therapy, highlighting the therapist's role in shaping its impact. By sharing poignant stories and professional insights, Rose illustrates the need for a balanced approach that embraces play, connection, and understanding. The episode also delves into the emotional experiences of parents and the critical nature of early intervention in shaping positive outcomes.On a global scale, the discussion broadens to the international support for autism awareness, recognizing the disparities in resources across different countries. Rose underscores the power of online platforms to bridge these gaps, offering crucial guidance to parents and professionals worldwide. We spotlight the resources available at abaspeech.org, encouraging listeners to engage with a supportive community that shares their journey. Join us for a conversation about the power of acceptance and understanding in fostering a more inclusive world for autistic individuals and their families.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
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Kory Andreas Shares Insights on Neurodiversity and Self-Realization
Send us a textWhat 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 of autism masking, especially among women and gender non-conforming individuals, as Kori opens up about her unique approach to assessments.Moving beyond standardized tests, she employs in-depth interviews to grasp the complexities of each individual's experience. Her late-life recognition of her own autism not only transformed her personal understanding but also enriched her ability to guide others through similar paths. Kory's narrative, intertwined with her daughter's atypical autism presentation, challenges conventional expectations and urges a more individualized perspective on neurodivergence.From childhood to adulthood, navigating life with autism presents distinct challenges at each stage. Kory shares her insights on managing emotional regulation in early years, tackling mental health challenges in adolescence, and confronting the hurdles of adulthood, such as workplace dynamics and personal relationships. She passionately advocates for the validity of self-diagnosis, emphasizing how access to information empowers individuals to comprehend their experiences. Through her social media presence and public engagements, Kori continues to foster awareness and understanding, inviting listeners to contribute their stories and join the broader conversation on neurodiversity.https://tonymantor.comhttps://Facebook.com/tonymantorhttps://instagram.com/tonymantorhttps://twitter.com/tonymantorhttps://youtube.com/tonymantormusicintro/outro music bed written by T. WildWhy Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)
Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Although autism is becoming more widely recognized, there is still a lack of understanding and awareness surrounding the condition. As a result, many individuals and families affected by autism struggle to find the support and resources they need. Why Not Me The World podcast aims to bridge that gap by providing valuable information and insights into autism, fostering empathy and understanding, and promoting acceptance and inclusion. Nashville based Music Producer Tony Mantor explores the remarkable impact his guests make by empowering their voices in spreading awareness about autism and helping break down the barriers of understanding. Join Mantor and his guests as they delve into the world of autism and mental health to explore topics such as diagnosis, treatment, research, and personal stories. Together, we can create a more informed and compassionate society for individuals with autism.
Ireland