Advertise on podcast: Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

How can grandparents offer meaningful support when a grandchild is on the autism spectrum? Sometimes, the greatest gift is listening, respecting boundaries, and simply showing up. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler welcomes educator, advocate, and grandmother Jennifer Kaufman, author of Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk. Drawing on her professional experience and personal journey, Jennifer shares honest stories and practical guidance for supporting both grandchildren and their parents. They explore navigating sensitive conversations, offering help without taking over, encouraging inclusion among cousins, and adapting holiday traditions to meet a child’s needs. Jennifer also highlights her work in first responder training and workplace inclusion, along with the importance of water safety. Whether you’re a grandparent, parent, or extended family member, this conversation offers a heartfelt reminder: you don’t have to have every answer to make a meaningful difference. Jen Kaufman Website

Preparing for college is about much more than academics. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Tara Williams, professor and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, to talk about what neurodivergent students—and their families—can do to prepare for the transition from high school to college. From executive functioning, time management and accommodations to independent living, social connection and self-advocacy, Dr. Williams shares practical ways families can begin building these skills long before move-in day. She also discusses the importance of connecting with campus accessibility services, considering community college and bridge programs, and looking beyond academics when deciding whether a college environment is the right fit. One of the biggest takeaways? Independence doesn't happen overnight. Giving students opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, ask for help and even experience small failures can help them develop skills they'll need in college, the workplace and beyond. Whether college is right around the corner or still years away, this conversation offers plenty to think about when preparing neurodivergent young people for greater independence. Tune in for a conversation about preparing not just for college—but for what comes next. Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Instagram

Special Olympics is about so much more than sports—it's about belonging, friendship, confidence, leadership, and having the opportunity to shine. In this special two-part episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Jerome Davis, Head of Delegation for Special Olympics at Lone Star College, to talk about the growth of the program across the college system, the power of Unified Sports, and his unforgettable experience coaching Team Texas basketball to gold at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Then, Jennifer welcomes Special Olympics golfer Peyton Mattingly and his dad and caddy, Chad Mattingly. Peyton shares his love of golf, competing for Team Texas at the USA Games, finishing fourth, the friendships he's made along the way, and his goal of making it to the podium in 2030. Chad also reflects on Peyton's journey—from an early autism diagnosis and predictions about what he might not be able to do, to college, competitive golf, and a future filled with possibilities.  Through both conversations, one message comes through loud and clear: inclusion isn't simply being invited—it's being given the opportunity to participate, contribute, compete, build friendships, and be part of the team.

When a vulnerable loved one goes missing, every second matters. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler talks with Angelina Farris, Founder and Executive Director of Blue SAR, a nonprofit dedicated to the search, recovery, and rescue of missing persons, with a special focus on vulnerable individuals. Angelina introduces listeners to Skye, Blue SAR's black-and-tan bloodhound trained specifically in scent-discriminating trailing. Unlike a tracking dog following impressions on the ground, Skye is trained to follow the scent of one specific person—providing search teams with another resource that may help narrow a search more quickly. Skye is also trained to give a quiet sit alert when she finds someone, an intentional choice when searching for individuals who may be autistic, have dementia, or otherwise become overwhelmed or frightened. Jennifer and Angelina also discuss something families may never have considered: preparing a scent kit before an emergency occurs. Angelina explains how an uncontaminated scent can help Skye begin a search and why families traveling with a vulnerable loved one may want to bring their prepared scent kit with them. The conversation is filled with practical steps families and caregivers can take now—from keeping current photos and medication information readily available to checking home-camera placement and recording settings. Angelina also addresses an important misconception: families do not have to wait 24 hours to report someone missing. It's an important conversation about prevention, preparation, and having additional resources in place before they're ever needed. Because in a search for a missing loved one, saving time can make all the difference. Email: [email protected] Phone: 713.256.2445 call or text Scent Kits Facebook Messenger

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for autistic individuals—but there are practical steps families can take to reduce the risk. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Cindy Freedman OT, co-founder of Swim Angelfish, occupational therapist, and recreational therapist, to discuss adaptive swim instruction, water safety, and the free resources available to help families, caregivers, educators, and aquatic professionals. You'll learn: The difference between water safety and swim lessons Simple strategies families can begin using today How adaptive swim instruction can help children of all abilities Free downloadable resources available through Swim Angelfish website Whether your child loves the water or avoids it, this episode is packed with practical information that could make a life-saving difference. Show Notes: Adaptive Resources Mini-Course Adaptive Water Safety Tool Kit Inclusive Water Safety Activity Book Waterproof Visual Schedule  YouTube: https://youtu.be/2GADgf6egcY

In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Dorothea Lerman, Professor of Behavior Analysis at the University of Houston-Clear Lake and Director of the UHCL Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities, to explore the skills that truly lead to workplace success. While many vocational programs focus on teaching job-specific tasks, Dr. Lerman explains why social communication, problem-solving, accepting feedback, self-advocacy, and understanding the "hidden curriculum" of the workplace are often the keys to obtaining and maintaining employment. Jennifer and Dr. Lerman also discuss: Why employment preparation should begin years before a first job The importance of realistic career expectations and early work experiences How parents can build workplace readiness at home Common barriers autistic individuals face in employment Practical ways employers can create more inclusive workplaces The role of mentors, accommodations, and clear communication in supporting neurodiverse employees Dr. Lerman also shares insights from her new book, Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Helping Learners Prepare for Social Demands in the Workplace, a practical resource designed to help professionals teach the social and communication skills that support long-term workplace success. Learn more or purchase Dr. Lerman's book here: https://a.co/d/0i4CIt9U Contact Dr. Lerman: [email protected] or [email protected]  Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, behavior analyst, or self-advocate, this conversation offers practical strategies and valuable insights to help autistic individuals build confidence, develop meaningful employment skills, and thrive in the workplace. Because preparing for employment isn't just about finding a job—it's about creating opportunities for lifelong success.

What if the struggles you're seeing aren't about motivation, effort, or behavior—but executive functioning? In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler welcomes Nichole O'Donnell, BCBA and Director of Clinical Operations at Empower Behavioral Health and a longtime autism professional, to explore the critical role executive functioning plays in everyday life. Together, they break down what executive functioning is, why it matters, and how challenges with skills like time management, organization, task initiation, emotional regulation, planning, and self-control can impact children, teens, and adults. Through personal stories, professional insights, and practical examples, Nichole shares how executive functioning challenges often show up in individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other learning differences—and why these struggles are often misunderstood as laziness, defiance, or lack of motivation. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies and tools that can be used at home, in school, and in the workplace, including visual timers, checklists, planners, routines, accommodations, and organization systems that help reduce stress and increase independence. Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, self-advocate, or someone who has ever felt overwhelmed by daily tasks, this episode offers valuable insights and practical solutions to help make life a little easier—and a lot more successful. ️ Show notes in this episode: Executive Functioning Resources for Kids Getting Things Done Resources Unstuck and On Target

In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Sophia Schlecht for a thoughtful conversation about ADHD, anxiety, self-advocacy, and the often-overlooked experiences of women with neurodiversity. What began as a high school thesis on women with autism eventually led Sophia to her own ADHD diagnosis and a passion for advocacy. Together, Jennifer and Sophia discuss why ADHD and autism are frequently missed in women and girls, the challenges of masking, the emotional impact of finally receiving a diagnosis, and the importance of understanding neurodiversity through lived experiences—not just research and textbooks. Sophia also shares her journey through high school and college, navigating accommodations, anxiety, executive functioning challenges, and life with her service dog, Fenny. Through honest stories and practical insights, she highlights the power of self-understanding, community support, and learning to advocate for your needs. Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, healthcare professional, or someone exploring your own neurodiversity, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the invisible struggles many women experience and why choosing curiosity over judgment can make all the difference.

In this important episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with swim instructor, water safety advocate, and owner of All Things Swim, Emily Hansen, to discuss one of the most critical topics facing autism families — water safety. Emily shares her personal journey into swim instruction after her own daughter experienced a near-drowning accident and explains how that experience fueled her passion for helping children with autism safely navigate the water. Together, Jennifer and Emily discuss why drowning remains one of the leading causes of death for individuals with autism, why traditional swim lessons may not always work, and how adapting teaching methods can make a life-saving difference. This episode explores: The difference between swim lessons and survival skills Why patience, reinforcement, and routine matter Common mistakes families make with floatation devices and goggles Practical strategies parents can use at home How swim instructors can better support neurodiverse swimmers Why water safety should always come before swim technique Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, swim instructor, or community member, this conversation offers valuable insight, practical tips, and hope for helping individuals with autism stay safer around water.

In this inspiring Season 4 episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with John Watson, founder of Bloom Fitness, to discuss how one idea grew into a nationwide movement helping individuals with IDD and autism experience connection, confidence, movement, and belonging. What started as a search for meaningful opportunities for his daughter after aging out of school led John to create a fitness program focused on something much deeper than exercise — community. In this episode, John shares how listening to individuals with IDD shaped the entire Bloom Fitness model and why emotional connection, encouragement, and feeling “seen” are often the true keys to success. From powerful stories of growth to practical conversations about inclusion and independence, this episode highlights the incredible impact that community and connection can have on individuals with neurodiversity. Tune in and learn why Bloom Fitness is helping so many people feel stronger — physically, emotionally, and socially.

In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Transition Specialist and parent Cynthia Singleton to share a powerful, real-life perspective on navigating autism—from early diagnosis to adulthood. Cynthia shares her son Karl’s 27-year journey, offering honest insight into early intervention, the challenges of the school system, and the ongoing need for advocacy at every stage. A recognized leader in the autism community, Cynthia is a founding faculty member of LEND (Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities) at UTHealth Houston. She also led the grassroots movement to pass the Texas State autism insurance bill and served on the committee that drafted the autism supplement—work that continues to impact families across the state. From managing services and navigating 13 different school placements to exploring medical, behavioral, and innovative approaches, this conversation highlights one key message: there is no one-size-fits-all path in autism. ️ In this episode, we discuss: • Why parents must “take their seat at the table” in advocacy • The realities of navigating school systems and IEPs • The importance of individualized treatment—both behavioral and biological • Challenges and successes in adulthood, including employment and independence • New and emerging tools, including virtual reality for social skills development This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, and professionals who want a deeper understanding of what long-term support truly looks like. Because supporting autism isn’t a single decision—it’s a lifelong journey of learning, adapting, and advocating. Episode Resources: Partnerstx.org for partners resource network Autismgenes.com for Australian center for genomic analysis Advocate-well.com for Cynthia’s website and email [email protected] Autismnrc.org autism nutrition research Www.medmaps.org for medical academy of pediatric special needs Cbmintegrativewellness.com for photo bio modulation

In this special episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, we’re flipping the script. In honor of Autism Awareness Month and Jennifer Dantzler Day, Inspire ND’s Executive Director and Founder, Jennifer Dantzler, takes a seat on the other side of the mic—answering honest, unfiltered questions from a student advocate impacted by inclusion. From how autism understanding has evolved over the past 30 years to the biggest gaps in adult services, employment, and funding—this conversation dives into the realities families face every day. This episode is real, thought-provoking, and a powerful reminder that inclusion starts with understanding—and action.

In this insightful episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Amelia to explore what it means to receive an autism diagnosis later in life—and how that diagnosis can bring clarity, relief, and a path forward. Diagnosed at 16, Amelia shares how she began recognizing herself in others’ stories and realizing there was a deeper explanation for the challenges she had always felt but couldn’t fully name. What started as confusion became understanding—and ultimately, empowerment. Now a neuroscience student with a passion for research, Amelia is using her lived experience to drive her future—hoping to contribute to autism research and improve diagnostic support for teens and adults who are often overlooked. This episode also challenges common misconceptions, including the idea of autism as a “superpower,” and highlights the importance of understanding autism across the full spectrum. ✨ Amelia’s story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to understand yourself—and that with the right support, every individual can build a meaningful and fulfilling life. Tune in to hear a perspective that is honest, relatable, and deeply impactful.

In this powerful episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with someone who has been part of her journey for over two decades—Cade. Diagnosed with autism at just 3 years old, Cade shares what it was like to grow up navigating communication challenges, social connections, and the world around him—and how early support helped shape his path forward. From receiving ABA therapy as a young child to learning how to advocate for himself in school and beyond, Cade’s story is one of growth, resilience, and determination. Now 27, Cade reflects on the milestones he’s most proud of—including earning his bachelor’s degree in information technology, completing over 50 half marathons and multiple full marathons, and continuing to build his skills and independence as he pursues a career in data center operations. Cade’s journey is a reminder that a diagnosis is not a limitation—it’s a starting point. With the right support, determination, and opportunity, independence is possible. ✨ Whether you’re a parent, professional, or self-advocate, this episode will leave you inspired and hopeful about what’s possible. Listen now and be part of creating more inclusive communities.

In this special episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, released in honor of Profound Autism Day (March 17), host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Judith Ursitti, cofounder and president of the Profound Autism Alliance. Judith shares the deeply personal story that led her into national advocacy after her son Jack was diagnosed with autism at age two. What began as a mother’s search for the right support services quickly evolved into a mission to ensure that individuals with profound autism—those with the highest support needs—are recognized, represented, and included in research, policy, and services. This episode shines a light on a population that has long been underrepresented—and highlights the voices of families advocating for understanding, support, and inclusion. Tune in as we honor Profound Autism Day and continue the conversation about how communities, policymakers, and advocates can work together to support individuals with profound autism and their families.