What happens when an autistic child goes missing? In this episode, retired police captain and founder of Project Lifesaver International, Gene Saunders, shares expert insights, real-life rescue stories, and practical steps every parent should know. From how law enforcement searches for children who may not respond to their name, to technology that speeds up recoveries, this conversation is a must-listen for any parent or caregiver.

Learn more:

Website - www.projectlifesaver.org

Facebook @ProjectLifesaverInternational

Disagreement is natural, but attacks and violence are escalating — both in society and within the autism community. Today, we reflect on recent headlines and heated debates in the autism world, offering parents and advocates how to handle conflict with grace, protect their mental health, and model respect for their kids.

Support our mission and unlock bonus entries: patreon.com/autismwish

Hesitant about AAC for your child? Wondering if a communication device will help—or hold them back from speaking? Marisa Garcia, SLP and mom to an autistic child, breaks down the myths, shares what really works, and gives practical tips parents can use at home.

Connect with Marisa -

Website: www.theartsyslp.com

Pinterest: @theartsyslp

What if the smallest shifts in perspective could create the biggest changes at home? In this NeuroNugget, we share why seeing your child’s potential while respecting their challenges can help build a stronger framework for growth. Plus, we dive into our very first Listener Letter on navigating self-harm behaviors with compassion and practical strategies.

💌 Want your letter featured? Become a member at patreon.com/autismwish to submit yours (and get bonus entries into the monthly Embracing Autism Grant) or email us at letters@autismwish.org.

What happens if the protections our children depend on suddenly change? In this episode, we sit down with Jean Mayer, co-creator of the Moms Talk Autism podcast, to unpack the Texas v. Becerra lawsuit and the growing pressures on Section 504 — the law that ensures vital supports for students with disabilities. We tackle the tough questions parents are asking: Could this lawsuit weaken our kids’ rights in schools? Why is it still so hard to talk openly about disability? And what can we do right now to protect our children’s access to accommodations? If you’re worried about your child’s future in the education system, you won’t want to miss this powerful conversation.

Update: Since recording, the constitutional challenge to Section 504 has been dropped and the case is on hold, but parts of the lawsuit remain active and disability protections are still at risk.

Follow Jean:

Website: momstalkautism.com

Instagram: @momstalkautism

Ever feel like you’re failing your child by not “getting it right”? What if the most powerful thing you could do is stop trying to fix everything—and start truly seeing your autistic child for who they are? In this first-ever NeuroNuggets microcast, we break down the core of Embracing Autism, sharing practical insights and mindset shifts that can transform your parenting journey. Quick, actionable, and full of hope—this 10-minute episode will change the way you think about neurodiversity forever.

Support the Embracing Autism Grant and get perks! Just $5/month unlocks early episodes, bonus grant entries, exclusive content, and the chance to have your questions answered on air through our Listener Letters segment: patreon.com/embracingautism

When motherhood takes a different path and the journey feels endless… Julie Hornok and Dr. Regina Crone, co-founders of Labeled & Loved, share honest stories about the challenges and joys of being a “forever-nester.” They reveal how finding true community and healing through retreats and sisterhood circles has brought strength and hope to moms like you. If you’re looking for encouragement, connection, and a place to belong—this episode is for you. Don’t miss out on this chance to find support and renewal.

👉 Get $50 off the 2025 Weekend of Hope retreat with code EMBRACE50 at labeledandloved.org!

Follow them:

L&L Website: www.labeledandloved.org

Personal Website: juliehornok.com, drreginacrone.com

IG & FB: @LabeledandLoved

This episode is sponsored by Labeled & Loved.

We’ve hit 200 episodes—and today we’re giving you a glimpse into what’s next for the Embracing Autism Podcast. Things are changing, and we’re excited to bring you along for this new season of support, growth, and connection—in a whole new way.

Connect with us + unlock bonus grant entries at patreon.com/autismwish

Ask your questions, we'll answer them on air at letters@autismwish.org

Leave a voicemail at speakpipe.com/embracingautism and we may share it in a future episode