Episodes

  • 34 Robby the Dyslexic Taxi: Transforming Challenges into Creativity

    34 Robby the Dyslexic Taxi: Transforming Challenges into Creativity
    Jan 31 2024

    In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene engages in a heartfelt conversation with Lynn and Jonathan Greenberg, a mother-son duo, about their personal journey with dyslexia. Jonathan, a college student born with dyslexia, shares the challenges he faced and how he discovered a deep love for writing, reading, and drawing with the support of his mother. Together, they turned obstacles into opportunities, creating the children's book "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi." The book celebrates determination, creativity, and the power of collaboration.

    Guests:
    Joining us today are Jonathan Greenberg, Author, and Illustrator, born with dyslexia, who found a creative outlet through art and storytelling, and Lynn Greenberg, Author, retired attorney, and devoted mother. Together, they collaborated on "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi And The Airport Adventure," addressing dyslexia and advocating for neurodiversity. Their story highlights resilience and creativity in navigating learning challenges.

    Bullet Point Recap:
    •    Personal journey with dyslexia, challenges faced, and the creation of "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi."
    •    Jonathan's positive perspective on dyslexia as a superpower.
    •    The importance of parental support and trusting instincts.
    •    Description of the book's storyline and characters.
    •    The role of the Creative Cab Company in fostering a supportive community.
    •    Plans for a series exploring different learning differences.

    Creative Cab Company:
    www.creativecabcompany.com

    Subscribe Now and Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher

    Visit our Website:

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

    Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource

    Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    23 mins
  • 33 Preventa Wear: A Mother’s Innovative Solution to Diaper Digging

    33 Preventa Wear: A Mother’s Innovative Solution to Diaper Digging
    Dec 27 2023

    In this taboo-busting episode, Brian Keene welcomes Cindi Seifert, a devoted mother and the founder of Preventa Wear to share her journey raising her daughter Kyla, a 25-year-old with autism and epilepsy. The taboo topic of diaper digging, a behavior many parents face in silence, takes center stage as Cindi opens up about the challenges she encountered and the innovative solution she crafted to empower families worldwide.

    Guest:

    Cindi Seifert, a compassionate mother and the visionary founder of Preventa Wear, LLC, unfolds her remarkable journey as a caregiver and entrepreneur. Her commitment to addressing the challenges of incontinence and providing specialized clothing solutions has transformed Preventa Wear into a global phenomenon.

     

    Bullet Point Recap:

    • Origins of Preventa Wear: Cindi shares the genesis of Preventa Wear, born out of the daily struggles with Kyla's diaper digging behavior and the need for a supportive solution.

    • The Preventa Wear Collection: A diverse range of sensory-friendly, fashionable, and functional outfits, including adult-sized onesies, wheelchair pads, and stylish apparel for individuals with various neurological disorders.

    • Breaking the Silence: Cindi's openness about the taboo topic of diaper digging aims to shatter societal silence and connect with families facing similar challenges.

    • Global Impact: The Prevent Aware movement extends beyond autism, reaching families dealing with Alzheimer's, Down syndrome, and other neurological disorders worldwide.

    • Empowering Families: Cindi's mission goes beyond providing clothing; it's about offering support, understanding, and a sense of community to families navigating the often isolating journey of caregiving.

    • The Preventa Wear Website: Cindi directs listeners to the Preventa Wear website, where families can explore the range of products, find resources, and connect with a community that understands their unique experiences

     

    Prevent Aware Resources: 

    https://preventawear.com/

    Subscribe Now & Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, 

    Visit our Website:

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

     
    Show more Show less
    21 mins
  • 32 Considering Home Schooling?

    32 Considering Home Schooling?
    Nov 29 2023

    Synopsis: In this episode, Brian Keene welcomes Manisha Snoyer, a teacher, tech entrepreneur, and host of the "Teach Your Kids" podcast. They discuss alternatives to the traditional education system, focusing on homeschooling as a customizable and flexible solution for families, especially those with special needs.

    Guest: Manisha Snoyer is a renowned educator, speaker, and innovator in the field of personalized learning and childhood education. With over a decade of experience, she has worked passionately to bridge the gap between traditional education systems and individualized learning methodologies. Manisha's expertise extends to the intersection of technology and education, as she leverages digital tools to enhance learning experiences. 

    Bullet Point Recap:

    • Manisha Snoyer's 20 years of teaching experience and recognition of issues in the education system.

    • Cottage Class as a tech platform supporting teachers in starting micro-schools and aiding homeschooling families.

    • Diverse and modern landscape of homeschooling, addressing challenges faced by families with special needs.

    • Examples of customized curriculum recommendations based on a child's preferences and needs.

    • Cottage Class as a marketplace connecting families with tutors and providing training in child-centered communication.

    • Overview of Arizona's innovative Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) and their impact on homeschooling.

    • Steps for families interested in homeschooling, including visiting the "Teach Your Kids" website.

    • Emphasis on affordability and support for all families interested in joining the homeschooling community.

    • Encouragement for families to explore homeschooling and seek help from available communities and specialists.

    Resources:

    Teach Your Kids Homeschooling Community Resources: 

    https://teachyourkids.substack.com/

    Subscribe Now and Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher

    Visit our Website:

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

    Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource

    Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    15 mins
  • 31 Scan Me Home: Iron-on QR code solution for child safety.

    31 Scan Me Home: Iron-on QR code solution for child safety.
    Aug 30 2023

    Synopsis:

    In this episode of the Autism Family Resource podcast, host Brian Keene interviews Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum, who created the innovative safety product ScanMeHome.com. Justin shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind his product, and practical tips for enhancing child safety in the community.

    Guest:

    Meet Justin Behnke, father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum and founder, director, and CEO of ScanMeHome.com, a QR code solution for child safety.

    Main Topics Discussed:

    1. ScanMeHome.com: A Lifeline for Parents:
      • ScanMeHome.com offers an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
      • Iron-on QR code tags are discreet, washable, and highly effective.
      • Designed for children with disabilities, like nonverbal kids, but applicable to many
        other diagnoses, like dementia.
    2. Exclusive Listener Discount:
      • Justin offers a 50% lifetime discount with the code "VIPMEMBER."
      • His mission is to make child safety accessible to all families.
    3. Community Safety and Awareness:
      1. Justin emphasizes the importance of community involvement and education.
      2. Making people aware of your child’s safety technology, be it QR code or Apple Air Tag, can create a safer environment for everyone.

    Recap:

    •  Justin, a father of a nonspeaking child on the autism spectrum, discusses ScanMeHome.com, a safety product for children.
    • He shares his personal journey and the inspiration behind creating the product.
    • ScanMeHome.com offers an added layer of security for children with disabilities.
    • QR codes are highly effective in child safety and include vital information.
    • Practical tips for parents include staying close to children in public and parking near entrances.
    • Promote awareness and education in the community for child safety.
    • A discount code "VIPMEMBER" offers a 50% discount on ScanMeHome.com memberships for listeners.

    Resources:

    https://scanmehome.com/
    https://www.facebook.com/scanmehomenow
    VIPMEMBER is your discount code. This gives people half off for life, including their sign-up and monthly.

    Subscribe Now & Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher

    Visit our Website:

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

    Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource

    Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    17 mins
  • 30: Communication Devices Part 3: AAC Device Best Practices

    30: Communication Devices Part 3: AAC Device Best Practices
    Aug 16 2023
    Communication Devises Part 3: AAC Device Best Practices Synopsis: On today’s episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists. Lydia and Stacey delve into the significance of communication, the joy of language development, and the transformative power of AAC in the lives of individuals with communication difficulties. This episode, part three of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices. Guests: Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively. Main Topics Discussed: Introduction to AAC and Its Impact Defining AAC and its role in communication Transforming lives through effective communication Building Language through Play and Interaction Understanding the joy of language development The importance of social interactions in language acquisition Creating a communication-rich environment Implementing AAC in Daily Routines Making AAC a seamless part of routines Strategies for incorporating AAC devices into daily activities Balancing fun and learning through modeling The Role of Modeling in AAC Exploring the concept of modeling How modeling enhances receptive language skills Letting the child lead and nurturing expressive language growth Creating Meaningful Connections with AAC Recognizing the importance of social connection Empowering families to navigate AAC challenges Personal stories that demonstrate the impact of AAC Bullet Point Recap: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) empowers individuals with communication challenges. Language development is a joyful process influenced by social interactions. Incorporating AAC into routines enhances communication success. Modeling is a powerful strategy for nurturing receptive and expressive language. AAC strengthens meaningful connections and improves overall quality of life.   For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts: https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication Subscribe Now & Leave a Review Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher Visit our Website: www.pureheartstherapy.com Follow Us: Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    43 mins
  • 29: Communication Devices Part 2: Obtaining an AAC Device

    29: Communication Devices Part 2: Obtaining an AAC Device
    Aug 2 2023
    Communication Devises Part 2: Obtaining an AAC Device

    Synopsis: On today’s episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene continues his discussion with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, Phenix area speech-language pathologists, about the process of obtaining Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices in Arizona. This episode, part two of the three-part series, focuses on AAC devices.

    Guests:

    Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.

    Main Topics Discussed:

    1. How to initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for a child in Arizona.
    2. The importance of working with a contracted AAC agency for specialized services.
    3. The role of a multidisciplinary team in the evaluation process, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists.
    4. Conducting a thorough evaluation to find the right AAC device that suits the child's needs and abilities.
    5. The significance of considering the family's input and the child's physical abilities during the evaluation.
    6. The possibility of using loaner devices during the evaluation phase.

    Recap:

    • In Arizona, families should initiate the process of obtaining an AAC device for their child to support their communication needs, as early intervention is crucial.
    • To get an AAC device, families can work with their therapists or directly contact an AAC provider agency for assistance.
    • The evaluation process involves a multidisciplinary team, including speech therapists and occupational/physical therapists, to find the best match for the child's communication requirements.
    • The evaluation considers various factors, including the child's physical abilities, communication needs, and family input.
    • Loaner devices may be available to use during the evaluation period.
    • Part three of the series will focus on implementing the AAC device in daily life and discussing the pros and cons of different devices and features.

    For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:

    https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication

    Subscribe Now & Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher

    Visit our Website:

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

    Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource

    Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • 28 Communication Devices Part 1: Who Needs Them

    28 Communication Devices Part 1: Who Needs Them
    Jul 19 2023

    In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, host Brian Keene sits down with Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover, speech-language pathologists from the Phenix area, to delve into the world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). They discuss the importance of communication, language acquisition, and the various communication options, such as AAC devices. This is the first part of a three-part series to provide valuable insights and guidance for parents of non-speaking or special needs children.

    Guests:

    Lydia Mackay and Stacey Dover are speech-language pathologists based in the Phenix area. They specialize in working with individuals who use AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) in various settings, such as schools and homes. They have experience providing evaluations and training for augmentative communication devices and have worked extensively with non-speaking individuals and those with special needs. They are passionate about supporting communication development and empowering individuals to express themselves effectively.

    Main Topics Discussed:

    • Defining communication and debunking the misconception that it is solely verbal.
    • Exploring language acquisition and how it develops through babbling and word formation.
    • Emphasizing the role of context and interaction in language learning.
    • Introducing AAC as a tool for augmenting and supplementing communication.
    • Highlighting the importance of engagement, feedback, and positive social interaction in language development.
    • Considering sign language as a visual form of communication and its potential benefits.
    • Addressing the question of when it's time for a child to get an AAC device.
    • Stressing the importance of self-advocacy and providing individuals with the means to express themselves.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Communication encompasses various modalities beyond verbal speech, including body language and literacy.
    • Language acquisition begins with babbling and gradually shapes into meaningful words through positive reinforcement and social interaction.
    • AAC serves as a tool to support and augment existing modes of communication.
    • Engagement, context, and interaction are crucial in language learning and should be prioritized in the parent-child relationship.
    • Sign language can be considered a form of communication, but the ability to hear oneself say words is important, which AAC devices can facilitate.
    • The decision to introduce AAC should be based on individual needs and communication challenges.
    • AAC devices empower individuals to self-advocate and express their needs effectively.

     For AAC resources, FAQ, and flowcharts:

    https://www.pureheartstherapy.com/resources/speechandcommunication

    Subscribe Now & Leave a Review

    Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher

    Visit our Website

    www.pureheartstherapy.com

    Follow Us:

    Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy

    Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource

    Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy
    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • 27 Exploring Natural Healing Of Autism Symptoms

    27 Exploring Natural Healing Of Autism Symptoms
    Jun 21 2023
    Guest Karen Thomas is a mom and the author of "Naturally Healing Autism: The Complete Step-by-Step Resource Handbook for Parents.” She is passionate about spreading the possibility of drug-free recovery and is set to help parents whose children are on the autism spectrum get natural recovery. This passion was born out of her personal experience. She went through a long research process to get help for her son, who now lives without autistic symptoms. Topics Discussed Karen shares how her experience as a Cranial Sacral Therapist helped her to ignore the traditional treatment advice for Autism she got and sought to find a lasting treatment for her son. When my son was diagnosed with Autism, now 17 years ago, I was told to drug him and try behavioral therapies but I didn't want to do that because I wanted to find out what the causes were, not just mask symptoms, especially with dangerous drugs. My background is that I have been a Cranial Sacral Therapist for over 20 years, which means I work on the bones of the head to balance the brain, and I have extensive courses and research on the brain. So I knew when my son was diagnosed that the brain can and does heal, but I didn't know that much about autism, so I began, like most parents on the journey, seeking various therapists and practitioners and people. Some challenging experiences He had extreme oppositional defiance, extreme OCD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, trouble sleeping, would wake up screaming from stomach ache at 3 am, and constant headaches. I mean, everything was just pointing to these issues of health and behaviors. I knew that the behaviors had a lot to do with health, so I started to work with them, and today you wouldn't even imagine he could ever act in that aggressive way that he used to or have the irritability that he used to because today, he is so calm and easy going and kind and relaxed. Karen shares how she overcame gut inflammatory problems by curating a proper diet plan for her son. The gut controls the brain and controls the immune system. So if your child is always sick, it leads to a gut issue, which is why we need to start from the gut. We also need to start with detoxification support and pathway because even the dietary changes alone are going to start killing off the bad bacteria, and there is a work term that's called “die of” When these bad bacteria die off, they start to release more toxins, so you can see an increase in worsened behaviors of your child and this is happening. You have to support the detoxification pathway better with binders and mutational support. The starting point of a detoxification process and Keren's experience with her son. My food guide is the best resource to start looking at, and it explains why you want to remove these specific foods and the purpose behind them. When we have more education, we tend to take more responsibility, and knowledge helps us know why we want to continue pursuing it because it can be challenging… So for my son, I noticed that he started sleeping better and that was good because there were so many ups and downs that I didn't know then, that I do now, that I can lead parents now correctly through. Karen talks about diet change and creating substitutes for autistic children. I think if you switch to organic foods, that will help a lot even if in the beginning, you are getting an organic chicken nugget and it still has the gluten covering on it, things like that but at least, you are not getting the antibiotics and hormones and additional pesticides because our kids are already so toxic… So just start making some substitutions, it will be a process of trial and error to find the things that your child will eat and like. Recap ●      It is okay to refuse to accept the status quo when your child's health is concerned, no matter how long it will take, keep doing your research, and you will eventually get a break. ●      Every child's level of recovery is different and the definition is to regain health. ●      There are 4 stages of detoxification: Dietary changes, Heavy metal detox, clearing co-infections, and finding supplements. These stages have to be followed in the correct order for effective results. Subscribe Now & Leave a Review Apple Podcasts, Spotify,  Google Podcast, &  Stitcher Visit our Website www.pureheartstherapy.com Follow Us: Facebook: Pure Hearts Therapy Facebook Group: Autism Family Resource Instagram: Purehearts_Therapy Connect with Karen NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/7foods Facebook.com/NaturallyRecoveringAutism Instagram.com/recoveringautism (@recoveringautism)
    Show more Show less
    34 mins