In this heartfelt conversation, Jasmine shares her journey as a mother of a son with autism, discussing the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. From navigating the early signs of autism to the emotional toll of parenting a teenager, Jasmine emphasizes the importance of community, vulnerability, and self-care. She also highlights her experience as a nursing student while raising her son and the impact of writing children's books to raise awareness about autism. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for new autism moms, encouraging them to embrace their feelings and seek support.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction 
01:40 Jasmine's Journey with Rece
04:16 Navigating Autism Diagnosis and Early Signs
07:27 The Challenges of Being a Nursing Student and a Mom
10:22 The Importance of Community and Support
13:21 Finding Strength in Vulnerability
16:15 Overcoming Feeding Challenges
19:00 Building a Support Network
22:01 The Emotional Toll of Parenting a Child with Autism
24:31 The Evolution of Parenting a Teen with Autism
27:16 Self-Care Strategies for Caregivers
29:49 The Impact of Hormones and Stress on Parenting
32:56 The Journey of Writing a Book
35:55 Advice for New Autism Moms
38:40 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Connect with Jasmine:

Instagram: www.instragram.com/jas.poole

Resources Mentioned:

Books by Jasmine Poole: "Rece Wants Cereal" and "Rece Takes Swimming"

Book Referenced: Welcome to Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley (1987) 


If you found Jasmine's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit! Don't forget to check out Jasmine's books on Amazon and follow her journey on Instagram for more inspiration.

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Ep. 102 - Managing Stress When You Can't Catch a Break with Jasmine

In this conversation, Shannon shares her personal journey as a mother of a child with autism, detailing the challenges and triumphs she faced from diagnosis to advocacy. She emphasizes the importance of being an informed advocate for one's child, navigating the medical system, and finding community resources. Shannon also offers valuable advice for new parents, highlighting the need for resilience and the power of shared experiences among mothers. The discussion underscores the growth that comes from facing challenges and the importance of seeking support.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
03:10 Shannon's Journey to Diagnosis
08:59 Navigating the Medical System
19:00 The Role of Advocacy in Autism
29:00 Resources and Community Support
38:54 Advice for New Parents
48:28 Reflections on Growth and Resilience

Connect with Shannon:

Email: shannondelizio@gmail.com
Cellular: 609-506-0500

Instagram: www.instagram.com/shannon_delizio/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/shannondelizio/

Resources Mentioned:

Hinkle Prior & Fischer-Law firm specializes in people with disabilities. Provides free webinars on how to navigate DDD, SSI, Housing, Wills, POA, Guardianship etc. Hinkle, Prior Fischer & Oberweis, Disability Attorneys

Rizza Miro & Associates LLC-  (In Marlton NJ). Provides Speech services, Tutoring and Social skills 856-334-5238 Rizza Miro & Associates LLC

Breakfast with the Boys - 908-587-4262 Claudia and Ran Toby. Instagram: www.instagram.com/breakfastwithourboys/ - Provides Leadership, Job skills, & Life skills topics Breakfast With Our Boys – Breakfastwithourboys

Carrie Cariello - (Author) Carrie Cariello


If you found Shannon's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit! 


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Ep. 103 - Then vs. Now: A Journey Through Autism Advocacy with Shannon

Join host Rashidah as she welcomes fellow Jerseyan, Nicole Pierre-Louis, a 35-year-old autism mom from Essex County, NJ.

In August 2021, Nicole experienced a pivotal moment when both of her children were diagnosed as neurodiverse. Her son Blaise, now six, was diagnosed with autism at two years old. He is considered non-verbal and communicates using an AAC device.

Although she initially felt overwhelmed and stuck in “fight or flight,” Nicole quickly realized she needed to rise above that feeling and begin advocating for Blaise. During the pandemic, she turned to autism communities, recognizing the power of connection and the importance of finding a village to lean on.

Today, Nicole is committed to special education advocacy, community engagement, and inspiring others to bloom where they are planted.

This conversation is a powerful reminder of resilience, advocacy, and the strength found in community.




What we discuss:

00:00 Finding Your Tribe: The Importance of Community
04:17 Navigating the Diagnosis: Early Signs and Support
07:53 The Role of Advocacy: Becoming Your Child's Voice
11:51 Managing Multiple Needs: Balancing Life with Neurodiversity
16:45 Self-Care: Refilling Your Cup as a Parent
19:11 Empowering Others: The Importance of Community Support
24:50 Vulnerability and Asking for Help: Breaking Down Barriers
27:45 Surrendering to the Journey: Embracing Faith and Support
31:05 Embracing Your Badass: Mastering Your Fate

Connect with Nicole:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/prettylive5ive

If you found Nicole's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!


FOLLOW US:

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

YouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast

Ep. 104 - Alone, Then Empowered with Nicole

In this conversation, Brigiette shares her personal journey as a mother of two children diagnosed with autism and epilepsy. She discusses the challenges of navigating the diagnosis process, the emotional impact of seizures, and the importance of advocacy and self-care. Bridget emphasizes the need for parents to trust their instincts and seek support, while also highlighting the unique experiences of raising children on the spectrum. The conversation concludes with practical advice for parents facing similar challenges, reinforcing the message that they are not alone in their journey.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection to Autism and Epilepsy
03:11 Navigating the Diagnosis Journey for Two Children
06:09 Understanding Seizures: Experiences and Emotional Impact
08:57 The Role of Advocacy in Autism and Epilepsy
11:57 Self-Care and Balancing Family Responsibilities
15:03 Advice for Parents Facing Epilepsy Diagnoses

Connect with Brigiette:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/educationhustler

Facebook: Brigiette Lewis

Resources Mentioned:

The Parents' Place of Maryland
https://www.ppmd.org/

Tune in to this episode to discover invaluable insights, heartfelt wisdom, and practical tips on navigating autism and epilepsy. 


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Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

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Ep. 105 - Autism & Epilepsy with Brigiette

In this episode, Rashidah speaks with Marlene Soto-Riera, disability advocate, author, and founder of Helping Swans Co. Marlene shares her journey as a mother and grandmother of children with autism, her mission to build inclusive communities, and how she made history by organizing Newton County, Georgia’s first-ever Autism Awareness and Inclusion Event.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Background
00:57 AJ's Early Challenges and Advocacy
04:17 Navigating the Unknown: Emotional Journey
08:54 The Diagnosis: Coffin-Siris Syndrome
12:36 Finding Community and Support
16:01 The Role of Faith and Determination
18:43 Balancing Family Dynamics
24:33 Grandmother's Perspective on Autism Advocacy
27:24 Navigating Family Dynamics and Guilt
30:29 Understanding Guilt and Its Evolution
33:35 The Role of a Grandparent in Advocacy
38:36 Learning from Experience: A Guide for Parents
44:42 Advice for Grandparents: Being Present and Supportive
50:13 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Self-Belief

If you found Marlene's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Marlene:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momadvocatemarlene/

Tik Tok: momadvocatemarlene


FOLLOW US:

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Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

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Ep. 106 - Two Generations, One Diagnosis with Marlene

"Six Seals on the Road" is a soulful, acoustic folk-blues track that translates profound spiritual doctrine into a universal song of life's journey.

Inspired by the ultimate guidance for practitioners in Chapter 28 of the Lotus Sūtra, this song recasts the ancient Sixfold Praxis—to copy, keep, read, recite, memorize, and act according to the Sūtra—as a challenging yet necessary "road code."

This isn't just theory; it’s a commitment to a life of wisdom and compassion. The tune builds around the core Mahāyāna axiom: the effort to enlighten others is the most direct and necessary cause for the realization of one's own Buddhahood. We cannot achieve ultimate happiness while others suffer; the journey outward is the path inward.

Let the walking blues rhythm guide you as you embrace the Non-Duality of self and the world. This song is for every seeker, every songwriter, and every soul determined to find light by being light.


Lyrics: 
(Tempo: Slow, with a steady, walking blues rhythm. Think acoustic guitar, maybe a harmonica line after the verses.)

(Verse 1)
I saw the light on Vulture Peak, a long, long time ago.
The Buddha stepped away, but he didn't leave us low.
He left a map, a hard road code, for this world full of pain,
And Universal-Sage came down to stand us in the rain.
He said, "If you want the truth, friend, if you want the Buddha's heart,
You gotta put the Dharma to work, right from the very start."

(Chorus)
Oh, these are the Six Seals on the Road, the only way to climb,
Gotta work 'em with your hands, and work 'em with your mind.
It ain't enough to feel it deep, or know the words are true,
The key to my own freedom is the good I gotta do.
Yeah, the key to your own freedom is the good you gotta do.

(Verse 2)
The first seal is Keep it, let the Sutra be your spine.
Hold that faithful promise, make it your guiding line.
The second seal is Copy, with a hand that shakes but tries,
Every single character opens up the eighty thousand skies.
You're purifying your own weary soul with every pen stroke laid,
Making a shrine of paper, by the promise you have made.

(Verse 3)
Gotta Read and Recite it, till the words are in your bone.
Gotta Memorize the rhythm, 'cause you can't walk this road alone.
That's when the Sages move, they come to stand right where you stand,
They grant you the Samadhis, hold the wisdom in your hand.
It moves from ink to consciousness, a power understood,
But the journey ain't complete until you turn it toward the good.

(Chorus)
Oh, these are the Six Seals on the Road, the only way to climb,
Gotta work 'em with your hands, and work 'em with your mind.
It ain't enough to feel it deep, or know the words are true,
The key to my own freedom is the good I gotta do.
Yeah, the key to your own freedom is the good you gotta do.

(Bridge)
They call it Non-Duality, you gotta preach it to the crowd.
'Cause if one person's suffering, then my happiness ain't allowed.
You gotta Expound and Propagate, throw the light upon the dark,
'Cause every helping hand you lend, it leaves its shining mark.

(Outro)
The final seal is the deepest one, you gotta Act According To It.
They call it Shikidoku, friend, you gotta live the holy writ.
When you're out there saving others, from the trouble and the grief,
That's the only way you find your own ultimate relief.
Go ahead and walk it out, Padmaprabha. 
Go ahead and walk it out.
(Harmonica fades out)

Six Seals on the Road

In this week’s episode of Autism for Badass Moms, we sit down with Brandie Frost, a 28-year-old dedicated mom and bonus mom to three boys from Southeastern Kentucky. Her youngest son, Ruger, age 4, faced many health challenges during his first two years of life that have now mostly been resolved. At age 2, Ruger was diagnosed with Cavum Septum Pellucidum, and by age 4, he received diagnoses of Level 2 Autism and ADHD.

By the time Ruger was 3, Brandie had already suspected autism due to her experience with other loved ones who have cognitive disabilities. When the official diagnosis came, she didn’t allow it to overwhelm her. Instead, she embraced it, using her knowledge and determination to get a head start on accessing the limited resources available in her area for families of children with autism.

Outside of her role as a mom, Brandie is currently a college student on track to graduate with her Associate’s Degree in August 2025. She plans to continue her education by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. Beyond her passion for raising her boys, Brandie is deeply committed to mental health advocacy and victim support.

Tune in to hear Brandie’s inspiring story of resilience, acceptance, and determination as she navigates motherhood, education, and advocacy with strength and grace.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Background
02:38 Ruger's Health Journey
05:22 Navigating Autism Diagnosis
08:00 Embracing the Autism Diagnosis
10:50 Accessing Services and Support
13:30 Community Challenges and Advocacy
16:25 Building a Support Network
19:01 The Role of the Internet in Support
21:55 Finding Strength in Struggles
24:39 Advice for New Autism Parents
27:14 Resilience and Empowerment
30:02 Future Aspirations and Goals
32:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If you found Brandie's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Brandie:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandieenicolee
Tik Tok: Brandie Frost


FOLLOW US:

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Ep. 107 - Not Sad, Not Sorry: Just Grateful with Brandie

In this episode, we meet Paul Winder, who shares her powerful journey as a young mother navigating the intersections of cultural expectations and raising a daughter on the autism spectrum. She opens up about the deeply ingrained biases in Indian culture against having daughters, and the added complexity of dealing with her daughter's autism diagnosis. Despite facing societal and familial pressures, Paul Winder emphasizes the importance of education, early intervention, and self-care. With support from her husband and her own determination, she defied cultural norms, pursued her passion for special education, and became a fierce advocate for her daughter. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of not giving up, offering inspiration to mothers everywhere who face similar challenges.


What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:27 Cultural Expectations and Gender Bias
01:29 Early Motherhood Challenges
04:09 Struggles with Education and Family Expectations
13:05 Diagnosis and Emotional Turmoil
25:09 Finding Hope and Purpose
29:51 Struggles with Child's Eating Habits
30:49 Seeking Emotional Support
32:09 Challenges with Family Expectations
34:22 Finding Support and Inspiration
36:37 Pursuing a Career in Special Education
37:46 Building Connections with Students
43:00 Self-Care and Mental Health
49:46 Advocating for Your Child
52:58 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

If you found Palwinder's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Palwinder: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/journeyforautism

Tik Tok: @prettykaur5

Make sure to subscribe so that you never miss an episode. 

FOLLOW US:

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Tik Tok: @autismforbadassmoms












Ep. 108 - She Was Born a Girl-Then Came Autism with Palwinder

Yes, there is good in all of us. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore red flags in a relationship because you want to see the good in people. And it certainly doesn’t mean it’s your job to make those red flags go away; to shine that diamond in the rough! When you tell yourself what an amazing person you are for seeing the good in someone, that’s your ego talking. It’s the false part of yourself seeing the false part of others. And it’s totally rooted in insecure attachment. Emotionally healthy people don’t sacrifice their own wellbeing for others.

When you believe this martyr story and ignore or excuse red flags, you sell yourself short. You do NOT deserve a “broken” person who needs rescuing. That road leads to unhappiness because it’s an impossible journey, and you’ll never find what you’re looking for. Focusing on the other person means you’re avoiding yourself. In today’s podcast we’ll explore this story we tend to create, and how to change it. Ignoring red flags doesn’t make you noble. Let’s dispel that belief so you can shift to the real work: the work that begins with you.

WISDOM NUGGET (#wisdomnugget)
You are your own red flag. Surrender to reality, stop the story and be that hero for yourself.

#822: Ignoring Red Flags Because You See the Good (REBROADCAST)

In this powerful and transparent episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with Keena White, a licensed therapist and intuitive healer, to discuss what it truly means to co-parent with grace, balance, and intention after separation.

Keena opens up about her personal journey — learning how to put her child’s needs first, even when feelings toward the other parent were complicated. Together, we unpack the real challenges that come with co-parenting after a breakup, the mindset shifts that make collaboration possible, and how healing and boundaries can lead to peace for both parents and children.

In this episode, we talk about:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections
01:24 The Journey of Diagnosis
04:18 Navigating Emotions and Overdrive
08:58 Co-Parenting Dynamics
14:36  Forgiveness and Moving Forward
18:18 Creating a Healthy Environment
21:51 Self-Care and Flexibility in Co-Parenting
25:06 Navigating Co-Parenting Dynamics
26:33 The Journey of Self-Care and Healing
29:23 Supporting Child Development and Communication
31:47 Creating a Therapeutic Space for Healing
34:56 Empowering Moms Through Reflection and Communication
38:48 Defying Odds as a Resilient Parent

Tune in and be inspired by Keena’s story of strength, growth, and commitment to showing up for her child — no matter what.

As the founder of Relative Counseling & Suites and the visionary behind Therapy Meets Design, Keena blends mental health care, energy work, and intentional design to support those often overlooked in traditional settings.

Connect with Keena:

Website: https://www.relativesuites.com/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/relativecounselingsuites

Instagram: www.instagram.com/therapymeetsdesign

TikTok: therapymeetsdesign 

Make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode and share this one with someone who would benefit from this episode.

Stay connected and follow us on:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Community Page: www.instagram.com/theabmcommunity

TikTok & YouTube: Autism for Badass Moms

Ep. 109 - Same Team, Different Households with Keena

Are you a mother of a child with autism, struggling to maintain balance, feeling overwhelmed, and frequently second guessing your decisions? Do you often feel like you're navigating a maze with no map, grappling with feelings of isolation, anxiety and exhaustion? Are you seeking ways to manage your stress, regain your strength, and find joy and fulfillment. 

"Autism for Badass Moms" is the podcast you've been waiting for. This show is your guide to becoming that badass, mentally and emotionally strong mother you know you can be.

I am your host, Rashidah Cartwright, a fellow autism mom, personal development coach, and experienced mental health and substance use professional with over 18 years of dedicated service in the field. I am also a proud mother of four beautiful children, two of whom have been diagnosed with autism. One of my children also has a diagnosis of ADHD. 

Each week is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. We shed light on the often unseen emotional journey through heartfelt conversations with autism moms, we uncover the raw and authentic experiences that shape your life.

In each episode, we discuss everything from finding balance in the chaos, mind shifts, regulating your nervous system, and setting healthy boundaries. You'll not only find a supportive community that understands your struggles, but you'll  also equip yourself with the tools to become a more confident, resilient, and empowered autism mom.

Step into your power. Unleash your inner badass. Start listening now and transform your struggles into strengths. Welcome to "Autism for Badass Moms" - the space for autism moms who want to become unapologetically badass.
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*The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you have seen or heard from RASHIDAH CARTWRIGHT, PODCAST GUESTS OR THIS PODCAST.

Please like and share. 
Welcome to the musical world of The William Altig Choir, where ancient wisdom meets contemporary sound.

Inspired by the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and infused with deep spiritual themes, my music blends the rich traditions of blues and folk with modern elements, creating a unique fusion that resonates with both the heart and soul.

I've been captivated by the Lotus Sutra's messages of compassion, wisdom, and transformation since my youth. It's a journey of self-discovery that has found its voice in my music. Each song is a reflection of my own spiritual awakening and a celebration of universal truths.

My style is characterized by emotive storytelling, powerful lyrics, and a commitment to exploring the depths of human experience. Featuring contemplative blues, acoustic slide guitar, saxophone melodies, and the harmonies of a gospel choir, my music reflects a quest for enlightenment and a better understanding of the self.

Join me on this musical journey. Together, we can explore the teachings of the Lotus Sutra, finding solace, hope, and a deeper connection to the world around us.

#SpiritualMusic  #LotusSutraMusic  #ContemplativeBlues  #BuddhistGospel #AcousticSlideGuitar  #GospelChoir  #Self-Discovery  #SpiritualAwakening  #Hope  #The_William_Altig_Choir

A lot of us live in our head, disconnected from our feelings and intuition. This podcast touches on releasing insecure attachment, accepting your authentic self and getting “unstuck” by connecting to how you FEEL instead of how you THINK. I’ve been there, and discuss sensitive subjects using my own experiences with a lot of laughs and even more empathy… because we’re all flawed humans.

New tracks tagged #self-improvement