Advertise on podcast: Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)

Send us a text Craig Murphy was diagnosed with autism at 36, but it wasn't a shock. As the director of Alt Agency, a million-pound web design firm in Birmingham, UK, Craig shares how his autistic traits have shaped both his strengths in coding and his challenges with people management. In this candid conversation, we discuss late diagnosis, catastrophizing, the importance of building a supportive team, and why numbers and code just make sense to neurodivergent brains. A must-listen for parents, autistic adults, and anyone interested in neurodiversity in the workplace. Connect with Craig Murphy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigmurphyalt/ Alt Agency: https://45fusion.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Send us a text It’s been a month since our last Autistic Wings Dance Company update. And a lot has happened. Join us as Amanda and Leta discuss what has gone on in the last month, and the challenges of running a nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers in Colorado Springs. They share insights into the studio's mission, fundraising efforts, and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for dancers of all abilities. Keywords: Autistic Wings, dance, nonprofit, fundraising, inclusion Takeaways: Autistic Wings Dance Company provides a supportive environment for autistic dancers.The studio is fundraising for a new space and equipment.Community support is crucial for the studio's success.The Amazon Wishlist includes essential items for the studio.Autistic Wings aims to expand its programs and facilities.The studio values mental health and well-being of its dancers.Autistic Wings is part of the PodMatch Podcasting Network.The studio offers both recreational and professional dance programs.Autistic Wings is committed to inclusivity and accessibility.The studio is looking for sponsors for its upcoming events.Links: Donate to Autistic Wing's moving fund: OneCause Event SitePurchase items from the Amazon Wishlist: Amazon WishlistBecome a monthly donor: Network for GoodWatch Leta's #thewingchallenge: YouTube LinkWant to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: PodMatch Link. This show is part of the PodMatch Podcasting Network.

Send us a text What if autism isn't just one thing? Dr. Christopher Wyatt—an autistic professor and father of two neurodivergent daughters—shares why labels shouldn't define our children and how diagnostic criteria have changed so much that he wasn't even considered "autistic" until 2006. We talk about why autism and ADHD are deeply interconnected, the reality of navigating dysgraphia and dyslexia in schools, and why comparing your child to other autistic kids misses the point. Christopher's advice? Don't let your child become a label. Treat them as individuals and focus on what they actually need to succeed. Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is a professor in central Texas and longtime advocate for neurodivergent individuals. Find his research at linktr.ee/CSWyatt or search "Wyatt Autism" on Google Scholar.

Send us a text We’re back with new episodes! And we’re kicking it off with Mattel’s new Autistic Barbie (made with ASAN!) We literally ran to Target to grab one of the last ones. This episode is... well, it's exactly what happens when you hand an autistic 14-year-old a Barbie doll with packaging that was NOT designed for Leta’s fine motor skill issues and add Amanda’s ADHD attempts to talk. Watch Leta struggle with the weirdly-shaped box (seriously, why is it shaped like that?!) while we talk about why this kind of representation matters. Spoiler: Leta's main complaint is that the Barbie can't tap dance. Priorities, people. We cover: - Why headphones and AAC devices should just be NORMAL - The ongoing battle to get parents to understand Autistic Wings Dance Company is different, and we need them to bring their child’s AAC devices into the studio (How else are we supposed to talk to dancers who use AAC devices?) - Why loose-fitting clothing is a thing - Updates on Autistic Wings Dance Company (we're looking for a new space!) - And yes, the Barbie apparently has arthritis now according to Leta  🔗 LINKS: SoleTalk DC 2024 video (with Leta wearing her headphones): https://youtu.be/vQMKa7O-f24?si=MMOmFhL4iaYx6fkl Support Autistic Wings Dance Company: https://onecau.se/_etwsn1   Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest  Watch the unboxing on YouTube: https://youtu.be/yXq5DTtTlvE  New episodes every Tuesday & Friday. Thanks for being here! #AutisticBarbie #ActuallyAutistic #AutismRepresentation #ASAN #AutisticWingsDanceCompany #PodMatch

Send us a text Jenny Briggs is back! Join Amanda and Leta as they talk to Jenny about raising her daughter, Sarah, and the Sarah Rising Program Jenny set up for her daughter. (The Sarah Rising Program is based off the Do Autism Differently Program - formerly Son Rise Program.)

Send us a text Dr Barb is back to talk about her new book, "Unshakeable: Parenting through Autism With Love, Courage, and Purpose." (Ranked #101 on in Amazon's "Child Care" books.) Join us as we discuss the book, what Dr Barb went through to writing the book, how Dr Barb's daughter feels about the book, and, of course, talk a little about Carmel the Therapy Dog. You can purchase Dr Barb's new book for yourself or as a holiday present for the parent in your life. https://www.amazon.com/Unshakable-Parenting-through-Courage-Purpose/dp/B0FWB72V93?fbclid=IwY2xjawOuWrZleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF4NEVmOHE0dkNDWFJlWjZHc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHs-utWo-j3Qb9xS9jW7yhvazFRKqPgLOPtK_9GFwHQFrM0w2_PffMU3Px3Xw_aem_mj8oNZXfir4OmqusFR9dEA Visit Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)'s webpage for more information on the podcast https://www.letatapstyles.com This holiday season; give the gift of dance and self expression to an autistic child in Colorado Springs. Donate to Autistic Wings Dance Company and learn more about their mission by visiting https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Send us a text Join Leta and Amanda for a special (edited pre-recording) episode of Leta’s Tap Styles and My Autistic Life as we raise funds to try and save Leta’s nonprofit dance studio, Autistic Wings Dance Company. Special Guests Gayle Knowles (VP of Autistic Wings and Head of Dance Instruction) and Amber Schecter (Treasurer and Parent of two Autistic Wings dancers) join us to talk about what makes Autistic Wings Dance Company special, and why it has become a lifeline to the autistic dance community here in Colorado Springs.   Your gift today will help keep Autistic Wings Dance Company’s doors open, and help them attempt to get a studio space of their own so they can expand their program and welcome more dancers. They need just 45 people donating $20 a month to save the studio, and just 250 people donating $20 a month to get a space of their own. Donate at https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/Autistic-Wings-Dance-Company Learn more about Autistic Wings Dance Company at https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org . #AutisticWings #DanceForAll #ColoradoGivesDay

Send us a text Friend of the podcast, Author Faith Jacobs, joins us to share her latest book about Mozart. This time it is a children’s book about Mozart’s puppy, and the life of what can only be described as one of Mozart’s closest companions. This new book is a companion novel for Faith’s “Faithfully Yours” adult historical fiction series about Mozart. Discover how Faith brings history to life for young readers, making classical music and representation accessible and fun for all. In this episode: • The inspiration behind Faith’s Mozart series • Why neurodiverse kids deserve to see themselves in stories • The real history of Mozart’s pets and their role in his life • How books can foster empathy, inclusion, and curiosity Learn more about Faith Jacobs and her books:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Faith-jacobs/author/B0DPLVMR62?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=64f18fbd-3e96-438f-ac7f-615e615d65fb Explore Leta’s Tap Styles:  https://www.letatapstyles.com Support Co-Host Leta Rundell’s nonprofit, Autistic Wings Dance Company, this holiday season (They are raising funds via the Colorado Gives campaign until Dec 9, but donations welcome year-round):  https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org/donate1 Want to be a guest on Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Contact Amanda Trisdale on PodMatch:  https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Send us a text This episode was recorded live during our Giving Tuesday fundraiser for Autistic Wings Dance Company! Join co-hosts Leta (founder of Autistic Wings) and Amanda (CEO of Autistic Wings) as they share stories, discuss the impact of Autistic Wings, quickly talk about the upcoming Medicaid cuts, and rally support for an incredible cause. In this episode: Learn about the mission and programs of Autistic Wings Dance CompanyHear about our upcoming golf tournament—and help us choose the perfect name! Vote by donating the right amount for the name you want to see through our fundraiser link https://mtyc.co/qu9pbf $5 – “Wood, Wedges, and Wings” $6 – “Wood and Wings” $7 – “Waggle for Wings” $8 – “Swing for Wings”Give today at https://mtyc.co/qu9pbf Discover more about our studio and how you can get involved: [Studio Website Link]Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Thank you for being part of our community and supporting inclusive dance! Connect with Autistic Wings Dance Company: Website: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org Social: @autisticwingsdancecompanyFollow the Podcast: Subscribe for more episodesPodcast social: TikTok: @letatapstylespodcastFacebook: Leta’s Tap Styles YouTube: Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life) Leta’s Instagram: letatapstyles GivingTuesday #AutisticWings #InclusiveDance #Fundraiser

Send us a text Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michelle Lee Steiner as we explore what it really takes for neurodivergent students to succeed. Michelle shares her personal journey with learning disabilities, the challenges she faced in school, and the strategies that helped her thrive. We discuss the importance of self-advocacy, supportive teachers, and embracing neurodiversity in education. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or ally, you’ll find practical insights and encouragement in Michelle’s story. —  About our guest: Michelle Steiner lives with an invisible disability. From the start, many people told her she could not go to college, get her bachelor’s degree, get published, or have the job she wanted. She has been able to do all of that and more. Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Programming. She has articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready. She works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats. You can find her at her blog Michelle’s Mission: https://www.michellesmission.com —  Support Autistic Wings Dance Company: Autistic Wings was founded by Leta. This Colorado Gives Giving Season, Leta's Tap Styles is asking our audience to help the autistic dancers at Autistic Wings find a studio home of their own. It would just take 250 people donating $20 a month. Learn more and donate: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org —  Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review for more conversations on neurodiversity, education, and personal growth! Neurodiversity #LearningDisabilities #Education #MichelleLeeSteiner #Podcast #AutisticWings #ColoradoGives

Send us a text Michelle Choairy is back—this time launching her new brand, Special Education Concierge! In this episode, Michelle shares her journey from Simple Solutions for Complex Kids to becoming a dedicated advocate for families navigating special education. We talk about what real advocacy looks like, how parents can find the right support, and why early intervention and the right advocate can make all the difference. Plus, we spotlight Autistic Wings Dance Company, the nonprofit founded by our 14-year-old co-host, Leta Rundell, and their mission to provide dance opportunities for autistic kids in Colorado Springs—especially as funding challenges loom. If you’re a parent of a special needs child, or just want to hear inspiring stories of advocacy, tap dancing, and a little bit of “tism,” this episode is for you! 👉 Check out Michelle’s website to see if she’s the advocate for you: https://specialeducationconcierge.com/ — Links & Resources: • Support Autistic Wings Dance Company’s fundraiser: https://www.coloradogives.org/organization/Autistic-Wings-Dance-Company • Visit our website: https://www.letatapstyles.com/ • Join the PodMatch Podcast Network: https://www.podmatch.com/podcastnetwork/letastapstyles • Want to be a guest on Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Send us a text Clinical psychologist Dr. David Helfand joins us to discuss love, autism, and what makes relationships work for neurodiverse couples. Real stories, expert tips, and honest conversation in under an hour! Learn more or connect with Dr. Helfand at: https://marriagequest.org Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)?  Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Send us a text Join hosts Leta Rundell and Amanda Trisdale for a special episode celebrating the launch of Leta’s latest tap dance video—filmed on the beautiful greens of Antler Creek Golf Course! This episode drops alongside Autistic Wings Dance Company’s Colorado Gives fundraising campaign, supporting inclusive dance opportunities for autistic dancers. Go behind the scenes with exclusive stories, bloopers, and heartfelt moments as Leta shares her journey as a 14-year-old nonprofit founder, dancer, and advocate. Discover how you can help us reach our fundraising goals and make a difference for neurodiverse dancers! Special thanks to: • Antler Creek Golf Course for generously allowing us to film this unique project. • So Danca USA for designing Leta’s custom autistic awareness tap shoes. • Dance Daze Dance Boards for building Leta’s portable dance boards. 💛 Donate to Autistic Wings: https://mtyc.co/s2s76g 📺 Watch Leta’s Tap Video: https://youtu.be/usPkrGx-GD8 Every dollar helps us provide a creative, supportive space for neurodiverse dancers. Thank you for listening and supporting our mission! AutisticWings #ColoradoGives #TapDance #Fundraiser #Inclusion #Podcast

Send us a text In this enlightening conversation, Raj Khedun and Marleen discuss the importance of breathing techniques in managing neurodiversity, particularly in individuals with autism and ADHD. They share personal stories of overcoming challenges through natural methods, emphasizing the role of breathing in unlocking healing hormones and achieving mental clarity. The discussion also highlights the significance of family dynamics in implementing these techniques and the skepticism often faced by practitioners. Practical exercises are shared, demonstrating how simple breathing methods can transform negative energy into positive outcomes, ultimately fostering a supportive environment for neurodiverse individuals. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Neurodiversity and Personal Experiences 00:27 The Role of Breathing Techniques 02:59 Breathing and Mental Clarity 05:54 The Science Behind Breathing 08:40 Breathing Techniques for Children 11:09 Family Involvement in Breathing Exercises 14:03 Skepticism and Education 16:43 The Importance of Self-Awareness 19:37 Addressing Stimming and Acceptance 26:53 The Challenge of Concentration in Children 28:29 Parental Expectations and Child Development 29:57 Breathing Techniques for Emotional Regulation 33:30 Transforming Negative Energy into Positive Energy 34:28 The 3-3 Breathing Technique Explained 41:06 Practical Applications of Breathing Techniques 51:51 Resources and Future Collaborations 53:21 Outro.mp4

Send us a text In this episode, Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell discuss the importance of community support for Autistic Wings, a nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers. They explore the challenges of fundraising, the significance of Colorado Gives Day, and the impact of donations on their mission to provide a dedicated space for their programs. The conversation highlights the need for consistent support and the creative ways they engage the community. Ready to become one of the 250 donors pledging to give at least $20 a month to help Autistic Wings Dance Company soar on their wings? (Or give whatever you can give.) Give today at https://www.coloradogives.org/story/c852rf  Keywords: Autistic Wings, neurodiversity, dance studio, Colorado Gives Day, fundraising, community support, nonprofit, autistic dancers, donations, studio space Takeaways: 250 heroes giving $20 a month can sustain the studio. Colorado Gives Day is crucial for nonprofit visibility. Matching gifts increase donation likelihood by 86%. Autistic Wings adapts dance to fit autistic dancers. The studio needs $5,000 monthly to cover rent. Community support is vital for nonprofit survival. Creative fundraising ideas include peer-to-peer campaigns. The studio offers diverse dance styles, including tap and ballet. Consistent space is essential for autistic dancers' success. Engaging the community helps raise awareness and funds. Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to Autistic Wings 00:03:00 The Importance of Colorado Gives Day 00:09:00 Fundraising Challenges and Strategies 00:15:00 Adapting Dance for Autistic Dancers 00:21:00 Community Engagement and Support