In this episode, Matt sits down with Heather, a retired teacher and owner of R&J Stables. Heather shares her incredible journey from education to equine-assisted therapy, exploring how her lifelong love of horses has evolved into a deeply meaningful program that supports individuals with autism.

Heather discusses how her background in special education and her personal connection to disability through her late aunt shaped her approach to inclusion and understanding. She explains the unique bond between people and horses - how these intuitive animals help riders self-regulate, build confidence, and experience calm.

She also speaks about the story behind Sammy’s Place, the therapeutic riding program named in honour of a young rider who inspired Heather’s mission. Together, they reflect on the healing power of animals, the importance of individualized learning, and the role of compassion and autonomy in both teaching and parenting.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
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CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Therapeutic Riding and Autism
00:42 Therapeutic Riding Programs: A New Approach

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In this episode, Matt sits down with Jennifer - a devoted aunt to an autistic niece - to explore what it means to love, support, and understand from the outside looking in.

Jenn shares the story of her niece’s autism, ADHD, and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) diagnoses, and how those discoveries reshaped not just her niece’s world, but the whole family’s approach to connection and care. She opens up about learning to let go of “shoulds,” embracing radical acceptance, and finding patience in moments that challenge every instinct to “fix.”

From rethinking school and routines to redefining what affection looks like, Jenn reminds us that supporting an autistic loved one often means slowing down, listening, and letting them lead the way. Her honesty, humour, and deep empathy make this episode a powerful reminder that love doesn’t always mean doing more - sometimes it means doing less, and simply being there.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Autism and Personal Experiences
03:02 Understanding Autism Diagnoses and Profiles
05:50 Parenting Challenges with Neurodivergent Children
08:52 Navigating Expectations and Accommodations
12:03 Building Relationships with Neurodivergent Children
15:02 The Role of Patience and Understanding
17:54 Radical Acceptance in Parenting
20:55 The Impact of Schooling on Neurodivergent Children
24:01 Creating Opportunities for Engagement
26:51 The Importance of Communication and Debriefing
30:00 Final Thoughts on Autism Awareness and Support

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