In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with former intern Michael Rickli, a young adult on the spectrum who is now thriving as an employee at Disney.

Michael opens up about his early years—being diagnosed at age five, not speaking consistently until elementary school, navigating changes, and overcoming academic challenges. He shares his path from special education supports to graduating early from high school, earning a double major from the University of Houston, and following his dream all the way to Disney.

Michael’s story is a beautiful reminder that with support, opportunity, and encouragement, autistic individuals can shine in countless ways. His journey is full of resilience, growth, and magic—Disney magic included.

Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, or autistic individual yourself, this episode will leave you inspired, hopeful, and reminded of the power of believing in someone’s potential.

✨ Listen now and keep shining!

Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to ensuring long-term security for a loved one with a developmental disability. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Catherine Byers from Rosenblatt Law Firm to break down the essentials of Special Needs Trusts — what they are, how they work, and why they’re an important part of future planning.

Catherine offers clear, practical guidance for families seeking peace of mind — from protecting eligibility for government benefits to ensuring that funds are managed responsibly and compassionately.

This episode is proudly sponsored by FEAT Houston, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for those affected by developmental disabilities by increasing resources and providing information about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

✨ Tune in to learn:

• The difference between first-party and third-party trusts

• How to choose the right trustee

• When and how to start the planning process

• Common mistakes to avoid when setting up a trust

Listen now and take one step closer to securing your loved one’s future.

In this heartwarming episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Erica and Mason Johnston, a mother-and-son duo with a powerful story about what real inclusion looks like inside the classroom.

Mason, now a high school student, reflects on his early years growing up alongside peers with autism in an inclusive learning environment—and how that experience shaped his understanding of empathy, acceptance, and community. Erica shares a parent’s perspective on how communication, collaboration, and intentional planning helped inclusion thrive in their school culture.

Together, they remind us that when inclusion is done right, everyone grows.

✨ Tune in to hear:

• How early exposure to inclusion shapes lifelong compassion

• What schools can do to truly embrace “different, not less”

• A teen’s firsthand insight into how inclusion changes the way we see the world

Listen now and be inspired to “just do it”—make inclusion a natural part of everyday life.