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
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

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

Support the show

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

Support the show

In this conversation, Kali shares her personal journey with autism, focusing on her experiences as a parent of an autistic child. We discuss the early diagnosis of her son, the challenges faced in understanding autism, and the impact it has on family dynamics. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support, advocacy, and the unique gifts that autistic individuals bring to the world, including one of the most impactful things I have ever heard about loving someone with autism. Kali emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in the broader community, as well as the challenges within the healthcare system regarding autism diagnosis and support.

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
04:42 The Impact of Early Diagnosis
07:19 Finding Community and Support
09:41 Understanding Personal Struggles and Identity
18:47 Recognizing Similarities in Autism
25:22 Advocacy and the Autism Spectrum
29:38 Navigating the Healthcare System
32:48 Navigating the Waitlist Dilemma
34:17 The Role of Therapists in Autism Care
35:54 Understanding Autistic Happiness
36:52 Community Support and Police Interaction
38:45 The Challenge of Elopement
40:09 The Need for Breaks and Personal Space
42:59 Community Awareness and Safety
45:21 Balancing Parenting Needs
49:06 The Anxiety of Elopement
51:05 Juggling Family Dynamics
54:01 Planning for Social Situations
58:18 The Gifts of Autism
01:01:48 The Spiritual Perspective on Autism

Support the show

This conversation explores the experiences of an individual diagnosed with autism some time ago, focusing on Robert’s journey through childhood, the challenges of socialization, and the therapeutic role of art in his life. The discussion also highlights the need for better support systems for adults on the spectrum, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their unique strengths and challenges.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services (www.cardinalhome.ca)
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery (www.kawarthagallery.com)
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Autism: Personal Experiences
04:50 Navigating School Life on the Spectrum
11:45 The Role of Art in Self-Expression
24:22 Artistic Journey: From Passion to Profession
32:24 Diagnosis and Self-Discovery
39:16 Strengths and Resilience in Autism
41:42 Embracing Uniqueness and Resilience
43:20 The Power of Self-Awareness
45:13 Exploring Stoicism and Mental Health
49:30 Resilience in Daily Life
51:56 Humility and Continuous Learning
57:41 Accepting What You Cannot Control
01:18:16 The Need for Adult Autism Resources

Support the show

In this episode, Ruth shares her journey as a parent of a son with autism, discussing the challenges and triumphs of raising him. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of dealing with meltdowns, the importance of understanding and patience, and the need for more autism-specific resources. Ruth emphasizes the significance of listening to her son's needs and adapting parenting strategies to support his unique development.

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 Navigating Autism Diagnosis
04:09 Understanding Meltdowns and Emotional Responses
08:14 Parenting Challenges and Unlearning Norms
11:10 Recognizing Depression in Children
14:02 Finding Balance in Parenting
16:58 Listening to Children's Needs
20:14 Creating Safe Spaces for Children
23:07 The Importance of Communication in Parenting
29:30 Navigating Education Challenges for Autistic Children
32:38 The Importance of Socialization and Community Engagement
36:43 Personal Growth Through Parenting an Autistic Child
42:12 Raising Awareness and Understanding of Autism
48:33 The Need for Specialized Resources and Support
51:39 Embracing Differences: The Message of Acceptance

Support the show

In this episode, Jamie shares her personal journey with autism, discussing her experience growing up with an autistic sister and raising an autistic daughter. She explores the challenges and triumphs of navigating a world not built for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services (www.cardinalhome.ca)
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery (www.kawarthagallery.com)
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

Support the show

In this conversation, Ashley, shares her personal journey of discovering her autism and ADHD, reflecting on the challenges faced throughout her life, particularly as a woman. She discusses the impact of these neurodivergent conditions on her social interactions, parenting, and mental health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion for neurodiversity, the struggles of navigating adult life, and the need for community support. Ashley also highlights the significance of creating resources to help others and the hope for a more accepting future for neurodivergent individuals.

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
LEARN MORE: Autism Resources Kawartha

00:00 Understanding Autism and Personal Experiences
03:08 The Intersection of ADHD and Autism
06:08 Navigating Social Challenges and Self-Identity
08:56 The Role of Physical Activity in Coping
11:48 The Emotional Landscape of Neurodivergence
14:53 The Importance of Support and Understanding
18:06 Encouraging Physical Activity in Children
20:54 The Need for Compassion and Awareness
30:52 Creative Approaches to Connection
36:54 Navigating Parenting Challenges
41:40 The Journey of Self-Discovery
46:10 Finding Community and Support
52:19 Creating for a Cause
58:10 The Impact of Special Interests
01:00:20 Understanding Autism and Acceptance

Support the show