Allison Hertog, a special education attorney and advocate, shares her experiences and insights about representing parents of children with disabilities and what it’s like growing up with an undiagnosed learning issue herself. 

A creative director, author and former Walt Disney Imagineer, Ron Robledo joins us to discuss the inspiration behind his comic book characters, the organization he founded to inspire other young illustrators, and the positive impact they have on portrayals of all people of color. 

Mindy Scheier of the Runway of Dreams Foundation shares her story of creating adaptive clothing within the fashion industry for those with special needs and disabilities. Her passion has led to names like Tommy Hilfiger joining the crusade and a featured spot at New York Fashion Week for several years in a row.

Cathy Gott, an advocate and board member of the Cornerstone Housing organization, has devoted her professional life to finding solutions for the special needs community. In this episode, she announces the groundbreaking of a first-of-its-kind residential complex for those with disabilities. Hoping that it will be the first of many more to come, Cathy discusses the incredible opportunity this building will represent for so many of the under-served members of our population. 

In this very special episode, my guest who goes by the name Vel shares his perspective of what it’s like to grow up with autism and how others’ perceptions and treatment have had an enormous impact on his health and well-being. He courageously discusses his struggles, triumphs, and offers his wisdom to those who might be facing the same challenges. 

Dr. Michael Enenbach, Associate Clinical Professor and Assistant Director of Clinical Services at UCLA discusses the challenges of treating various disorders in patients with autism as well as services and supports available both in-person and remotely. He also touches on the intersection of LGBTQ patients who also have an autism diagnosis. 

Mark Solomon, a parent of children with special needs and financial coach, shares some important tips and advice on building a strong financial future for yourself and your family while providing the hope and confidence that comes with having that security and being able to spend more quality time with those you care about. 

Michelle Heid, a board-certified Behavioral Analyst, and mother of a child with special needs discusses the importance of advocating for the special needs community at large with your state legislator. She has become an expert on this process and has testified before both her state senate and assembly committees. She is also a community legislative educator and provides training to professionals, parents, and consumers. 

Dr. Laurie Stephens, Director of Program Development at the Help Group Schools, shares the latest research on gender incongruence and neurodiversity, and discusses what it is like to be someone who is a “double rainbow”. Dr. Stephens was instrumental in creating Kaleidoscope, the first of its kind LGBTQ+ program for children, teens, and adults who are also neurodivergent, giving these gender nonconforming and transgender folk a safe place to be their authentic selves and seek the answers on how to lead happy and healthy lives. This program also welcomes parents and allies who want to learn more about supporting this often marginalized community. 

Dr. Pratiksha Gandhi is trained as a cardiologist and is also an author, speaker, researcher, and counselor for children with special needs. She discusses her findings on natural remedies and approaches for treating conditions such as ADHD and dyslexia. She also shares her opinions about the right mindset to help achieve success with these treatments and touches on how caregivers ought to be taking care of themselves as well.