Autism Parenting Secrets

Welcome to Episode 222 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week’s guest is Helen Christoni, Senior Vice President of Business Development at Ideal Living.Ideal Living is dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to pure water, clean air, and a strong foundation for wellness.On this podcast, we often emphasize the importance of building that strong foundation to help your child thrive. It starts with the essentials: food, water, and air.Today, we’re zeroing in on WATER. We all know it’s essential, but many of us have been misled into thinking that the water from our faucet or from a bottle is safe and healthy.In this episode, we’ll challenge that belief and reveal why you should reconsider what you’re drinking.The secret this week is... DON’T Drink Tap WaterYou'll Discover:Why Taking Water Seriously Matters So Much (2:59)A False Belief To Let Go Of (8:24)The Specific Toxins Lurking In Tap Water (10:22)A Big Mistake To Avoid (15:30)How Reverse Osmosis Works (21:11)Two Toxins You MUST Avoid (23:01)The Issues With Bottled Water & Water Filling Stations (28:54)About Our Guest:Helen Christoni is a passionate Health & Wellness executive with over 20 years of experience across a wide range of businesses in this category. Helen thrives on connecting people with great products through meaningful partnerships. With her uniquely diverse background and dedication to healthy living, Helen has an integral role as Vice President of Business Development & Partnerships at Ideal Living, the makers of AquaTru, AirDoctor and AromaTru. At Ideal Living, we believe in Wellness Tech with a mission and that everyone has the right to pure air and clean water. Helen oversees both education and partnerships at Ideal Living and strives to help people around the world learn about the importance of having purified water in their homes.aquatruwater.comReferences in The Episode:For All AquaTru Models - Carafe, Classic, and Under-The-SinkEWG Tap Water DatabaseAdditional Resources:Unlock the power of personalized 1-on-1 support, visit allinparentcoaching.com/intensiveTake The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 221 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week on Autism Parenting Secrets, we’re diving into a challenge every parent faces burnout. We know crashing and burning isn't the answer, but so few of us take action to care for ourselves.Our guest today reveals a hidden cause of burnout that you might not know. Dr. Tricia Pingel, known as the Adrenal Whisperer, is a leading naturopathic physician specializing in stress and cortisol management. She has helped countless women shift from feeling wired and tired to calm and connected, and she’s also a bestselling author and a pioneer in holistic wellness.The secret this week is... Stress is OPTIONAL, Fix Your ADRENALSYou'll Discover:The Power of Being In The Moment (3:48)The 3 Stages of ADRENAL FATIGUE (12:20)Something Your Body Was NOT Built For (15:20)The Case For More Grace For Yourself (21:44)A Fresh Way To Look At Your Child’s Behaviors (30:02)The 4 Ways To Avoid Adrenal Fatigue (32:27)The Key Action That Triggers Positive Change (37:57)The Keys To Better Decisions (47:56)Why It’s Not Just Stress (51:51)About Our Guest:Dr. Pingel, the Adrenal Whisperer, is a leading naturopathic physician who specializes in stress & cortisol management. She has transformed & empowered countless women, guiding them from feeling wired and tired to a state of calm and connection. She has been featured on major TV shows and in publications like Mind Body Green and Prevention Magazine. Dr. Pingel is a bestselling author, a hip-hop dancer, a retired fashion model, and a visionary CEO shaping the future of holistic wellness.  www.drpingel.comwww.facebook.com/DrTriciaPingelwww.instagram.com/drpingelwww.youtube.com/c/DrTriciaPingelNMD/References in The Episode:Dr. Pingel’s Lab ListAdditional Resources:Unlock the power of personalized 1-on-1 support; visit allinparentcoaching.com/intensiveTake The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 220 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Cass and I are thrilled to have Katy and Brian on the show this week. They’re shining examples of what’s possible when parents take the lead in their transformation.Cass and I have walked alongside many incredible moms and dads, including Katy and Brian. Every story is unique and inspiring, but theirs, involving their twin girls, made headlines a few months ago when it was featured in a study published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine.The study was titled: “Reversal of Autism Symptoms among Dizygotic Twins through a Personalized Lifestyle and Environmental Modification Approach: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.”In short, these amazing twin girls diagnosed with autism made and continue to make huge strides.It’s a heartwarming, inspiring, and incredibly important story. And it’s deeply informative because the transformation that occurred for this family was no accident. It wasn’t luck. It was real and thoroughly documented every step of the way.The secret this week is…PARENT COACHING Is The CATALYSTYou'll Discover:An Incredible Journey of Twin Girls With Autism (5:00)How The Diagnosis Can Spur Action (9:46)An Underappreciated Skill You Need For This Journey (15:04)The Case For Taking The LEAD (24:02)The Critical 10% That Is The Difference-Maker (29:31)The Importance of Being ALL-IN (30:25)A Great Example of When To Pivot (32:22)The Case For Curiosity and Fun (38:21)What Personalized Coaching Looks Like (44:54)What’s Required To Get Faster Results (47:58)An Indispensable Resource (49:43)The Power of Networking & Community (51:52)About Our Guests:Katy and Brian are ALL-IN parents to twin girls diagnosed with Autism in September 2021, who are now thriving.  References in The Episode:Reversal of Autism Symptoms among Dizygotic Twins through a Personalized Lifestyle and Environmental Modification Approach: A Case Report and Review of the Literature, The Journal of Personalized Medicine, Volume 14, Issue 6Twins With Autism Improved ‘Dramatically’ After Parents Focused on Reducing Toxic Exposures, Children’s Health Defense, The Defender, 6/21/24Outsmarting Autism, Updated and Expanded: Build Healthy Foundations for Communication, Socialization, and Behavior at All Ages by Patty LemerDocumenting HopeThe Documenting Hope Conference, Orlando, FL, November 15-17, 2024Additional Resources:Unlock the power of personalized 1-on-1 support, visit allinparentcoaching.com/intensiveTake The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 219 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week's guest is Dr. Heather Tallman Ruhm, a family physician and the Medical Director at Documenting Hope. We dive into the powerful connection between the gut and overall health, the role of mindset in healing, and how trauma affects our body's defenses. Dr. Heather emphasizes the importance of reducing environmental stressors and restoring the body's natural balance.We also discuss the innovative work of Documenting Hope, an organization empowering parents with success stories and cutting-edge research. This episode is full of actionable insights for parents looking to make a profound impact on their children's health.Plus, we preview an upcoming conference designed to unite parents and practitioners for continued learning and support.Tune in for key takeaways on building a healthier future for our children.The secret this week is…Foundations FIRSTYou'll Discover:The Forces Working Against Your Child (6:17)What Often Keeps Parents Stuck (13:36)We’re Living In A World of Micro-Traumas (17:41)The Mission Of Documenting Hope (23:38)The Case For You To Attend The Documenting Hope Conference (29:09)How You As A Parent Can Make History (35:09)The Case For Your Practitioners To Attend The Documenting Hope Conference (37:47)About Our Guest:Heather Tallman Ruhm is the Medical Director for Documenting Hope – an educational and research-oriented not-for-profit organization established to help care providers, parents, and practitioners understand, prevent, and reverse chronic illness in children.  As a Medical Doctor and Certified Family Physician, Dr. Heather has always embraced an integrative and functional approach to root cause medicine.  Her clinical experience in this field began at the Whitaker Wellness Institute in Newport Beach, California, shortly after the completion of her residency.  Since then, she has spent the last twenty years in private practice, working in multi-disciplinary clinical settings throughout New England, including her current part-time practice at the New Hampshire Health and Wellness Center. Dr. Heather is a native of Montana and a “global” student and teacher at heart.  As an adjunct college professor for over a decade, she taught pathology and Foundations in Complimentary Health and Wellness with an emphasis on whole systems biology; she also hosted a radio series on Health Matters and, in 2018, helped establish one of the first bio-regulatory clinics in the US fashioned after the Paracelsus Institute in Switzerland.  Before studying medicine, Dr. Heather received her BA in Human Sciences at Montana State University and her master’s degree in public policy (MPP) from Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.  She has both studied and worked in a volunteer capacity overseas, and she, her husband, and their grown daughter have hosted numerous exchange students over the years.www.nhhealthwellness.comReferences in The Episode:The Documenting Hope Conference, November 15-17, 2024, Orlando FlReversal of Autism Symptoms among Dizygotic Twins through a Personalized Lifestyle and Environmental Modification Approach: A Case Report and Review of the Literature, The Journal of Personalized Medicine, Volume 14, Issue 6Underestimated: An Autism Miracle by J.B. Handley and Jameson HandleyAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 218 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Zen Honeycutt, Founder and Director of Moms Across America, returns to the show. Moms Across America is a powerful coalition of unstoppable moms dedicated to creating healthy communities through education and empowerment.  Their motto, 'Empowered Moms, Healthy Kids,' reflects their mission.In our first episode with Zen (Episode 103), we explored the importance of going organic. Later, in Episode 130, she highlighted the hidden dangers of school lunches and the importance of packing your own. By Episode 194, Zen revealed just how harmful fast food can be, far worse than most realize.This week, Zen is back to share alarming findings from independent testing on baby formula—and the results aren’t good. She has the research to back it up.The secret this week is…Baby Formula Can Be TOXICYou'll Discover:The Shocking Truth About Baby Formula (2:06)The Link Between Toxic Exposure and Chronic Illness in Children (10:25)Why Healthy Skepticism Is Needed With Testing and Regulation (18:39)How Parents Can Make Better Choices (24:30)Baby Formulas With The Most Issues (27:03)Baby Formulas With The Fewest Issues (30:30)The Case For Breastfeeding (34:20)About Our Guest:Zen Honeycutt is the Founder and Director of Moms Across America, a non-profit National Coalition of Unstoppable Moms. With the motto "Empowered Moms, Healthy Kids," Moms Across America has grown rapidly, with over 600 leaders creating 1,000+ community events in all 50 states in the first 5 years of inception.  Zen has three boys with allergies and autism symptoms, which greatly improved when they went GMO-Free and organic. She discovered that thousands of Moms are seeing the same results.  She has been featured on ABC, CNN, Dr. OZ, the Wall Street Journal, C-SPAN, Fox News, Reuters, The Hill, Huffington Post, and many other media outlets.www.momsacrossamerica.com/References in The Episode:Moms Across America Baby Formula Toxic Metals Test ResultsAutism Parenting Secrets - Episode 103: Organic + Non-GMO = Thriving FamilyAutism Parenting Secrets - Episode 130: School Lunches Aren’t Safe, Pack Your OwnAutism Parenting Secrets - Episode 194: Fast Food FUELS Aggression & AnxietyAutism Parenting Secrets - Episode 124: REWIRE The Brain Through DIETGMO Science - The New MDsUnsafe at Any Meal: What the FDA Does Not Want You to Know About the Foods You Eat by Dr. Renee Joy DufaultAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 217 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week, we welcome Laura Hirsch, author, blogger, health freedom activist, and mother to Trevor, a young man who defies expectations.Laura and Trevor's journey offers hope and empowerment to parents navigating autism. She emphasizes the importance of presuming competence and believing in the potential of non-speaking children.Their book, More Than Meets the Eye, is a valuable resource for parents seeking understanding and support.Laura and Trevor’s story is a beacon of hope, reminding us that with the right tools, belief, and love, our children’s true gifts CAN shine.Tune in to be moved, inspired, and empowered. Together, we can learn, grow, and support our wonderful children in unlocking their full potential.The secret this week is…There’s More Than Meets The EyeYou'll Discover:Trevor’s Story and Why He Chose To Write This Book (4:57)Some Surprising Capabilities That Trevor Revealed (9:20)Why It May NOT Be A Cognitive Disability (16:43)The Movement That’s Going to Explode (21:11)Trevor’s Words Of Encouragement (27:47)Incredible Communication Capabilities That Have Emerged (35:07)The Two Therapies Trevor Says Helped The Most (43:35)About Our Guest:Laura Hirsch was born and raised in Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater with a Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication. She is the author of numerous books, including The Other Side of Autism, Foundation of Discovery, and Widowed too Soon, and is a co-author and blogger for the popular autism organization, The Thinking Moms’ Revolution. Laura has been a health freedom activist for many years and was featured in the award-winning documentary Genetic Roulette about Genetically Modified foods. She is also a reformer pilates instructor and the proud mom of two incredible young men, Trevor and Damon. They live in the Reno, NV area.    Trevor Hirsch is Laura Hirsch’s older son and is now 25 years old. He was diagnosed with regressive autism at age three and is minimally speaking. He is finally having his voice heard because of Spelling 2 Communicate. He worked really hard for the past two and a half years and is now an open speller. Laura can ask him anything, and he spells out his thoughts on a letterboard. His journey over the past few years has been an absolute miracle. First, his musical talent, playing the piano and singing, became evident. Then, through Spelling 2 Communicate, his intelligence, thoughts, and feelings, and even his telepathic gifts that have been hidden all these years, came shining through. He is a musician, a horse whisperer, and a medium. He wants to share his story to inspire others.  https://www.laurahirschauthor.com/References in The Episode:More than Meets the Eye: A Nonspeaker's Journey through Music, Spelling 2 Communicate, and Becoming a Divine Messenger by Laura Hirsch & Trevor HirschAutism Parenting Secrets Episode 38 - Your Child Understands EVERYTHING with JB HandleyThe Thinking Moms RevolutionSpelling 2 CommunicateAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 216 of Autism Parenting Secrets. We’re talking CBD (cannabidiol) this week with Christopher Shade, PhD.  He’s the founder and CEO of Quicksilver Scientific and his intuitive understanding of chemistry and biology are reflected in Quicksilver Scientific’s well-designed detoxification protocols and unique supplement delivery systems. Dr. Shade is a recognized expert on mercury and liposomal delivery systems and his current focus is on meeting the growing need for high-quality, affordable detoxification solutions.Today, we’re going to focus on the role that CBD and cannabinoids play with children on the spectrumThe secret this week is…CBD Quells NeuroinflammationYou'll Discover:The Key Driver of Constant Fight or Flight (5:04)Something That Prevents Detoxification (9:09)The Importance of CBD Delivery Systems (10:42)The Blends of CBD To Consider (14:08)What Exactly Is Neuroinflammation? (19:47)Options That Calm and Detoxify (22:46)Benefits You May See Quickly (33:10)What Are Endotoxins And How To Avoid Them (32:20)The Importance of Oral Hygiene (35:26)About Our Guest:Christopher Shade, PhD, founder and CEO of Quicksilver Scientific, continues to be the driving force of development and innovation. Dr. Shade’s vast depth and breadth of knowledge, passion for healing, and intuitive understanding of chemistry and biology are reflected in Quicksilver Scientific’s well-designed detoxification protocols, unique supplement delivery systems, and patented mercury speciation test. Dr. Shade is a recognized expert on mercury and liposomal delivery systems. He has lectured and trained doctors in the U.S. and internationally on the subject of mercury, heavy metals, and the human detoxification system. Dr. Shade's current focus is on the development of cutting-edge, lipid-based delivery systems for nutraceuticals, such as liposomes and micro-emulsion systems, to address the growing need for high-quality, affordable detoxification solutions.www.quicksilverscientific.com References in The Episode:Full Spectrum Bliss by Quicksilver Scientific (use code APS for a discount, note creating an account is needed to access this link)Additional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 215 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week, we focus on an indisputably important element of a parent’s way of responding to their child’s diagnosis: MINDSET.It may seem obvious, but the nuances matter in putting it to work for you and your child.Our guest is Tony Frezza, a dad so passionate about this concept that we wrote a book called The Spectrum Mindset.Tony explains what that is and how it will help you catapult to a new level.As a parent, there are a lot of things we do that can get in the way of making great decisions.But having a mindset that is NOT aligned to what you want is one surefire way to crash and burn out.The secret this week is…Adopt A SPECTRUM MindsetYou'll Discover:What is a Spectrum Mindset? (7:02)Some Key Books That Promote Connection (12:23)Ten Elements Of A Spectrum Mindset (14:27)Hacks To Accelerate Success (24:52)How To Be A Model For Positive Change (30:48)About Our Guest:Tony Frezza lives with his wife, Shannon, and two kids, Dylan(10) and Arielle(8), in Jupiter, Florida. They are surrounded by immediate family and have a much larger gym family at FitTown Jupiter, which he and his brother Andrew started in 2012. For over a decade, Tony has coached and led his gym congregation in person and through routine writing online. His mission is to help people become the best version of themselves and inspire them to live life to their fittest and fullest. He takes a holistic approach to health, helping people with their physical, mental, spiritual, and social fitness. "The Spectrum Mindset" is his first published book and is available on Amazon. He has read hundreds of books in the self-help category but believes there is no better book for personal growth than The Bible.www.spectrummindset.comReferences in The Episode:The Spectrum Mindset: Lead Your Family and Life To Infinite Possibilities By Transforming The Way You Think by Tony FrezzaThe Whole Brain Child by Dan SiegelNo Drama Discipline by Tina Payne Bryson and DanSiegelUniquely Human bx Barry PizantAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 214 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week we’re joined by Dr. Krishna Doniparthi, a healthcare professional from Alpharetta, GA, specializing in lipid replacement therapy for cellular repair and rejuvenation.Dr. Doniparthi is the founder and medical director of Doniparthi Neurogen NeuroGEN Academy (DNA), a non-profit advancing education and research in neurodegenerative diseases, developmental disorders, and autism.We explore cellular health and its impact on individuals with autism. Dr. Doniparthi explains the vital role of phospholipids and plasmalogens in cell membranes and their importance in storing and releasing neurotransmitters.These compounds are vital for cognitive function, nerve conduction, and overall neurological health. Through personalized treatment and targeted nutritional supplementation, real-life transformations are happening in children with autism.The secret this week is...LIPIDS Are The Missing LinkYou'll Discover:Why Lipids and Plasmalogens Matter (3:23)The Wrecking Ball That Causes Inflammation (8:19)The NATURAL Way To Rid The Body of Toxins (13:28)Two Testing Categories To Consider (16:42)The Cornerstone For Better Health (20:00)Why It’s A Motor Neuron Issue (28:00)A Call To Action You Don’t Want To Ignore (33:44)The Difference Between Gray Matter and White Matter of the Brain (35:26)Why Chewing Your Food Matters More Than You Think (41:41)About Our Guest:Dr. Doniparthi, a healthcare professional based in Alpharetta, GA, prioritizes a patient-centric approach to identifying the underlying causes of ailments rather than merely treating symptoms. Operating from his clinic Functional Medicine Georgia (FMG), Dr. Doniparthi specializes in lipid replacement therapy, focusing on cellular repair and rejuvenation, particularly highlighting the significance of plasmalogens in bolstering cellular health. Additionally, Dr. Doniparthi is the founder and medical director of Doniparthi Neurogen Academy (DNA), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing education and research in neurodegenerative diseases, developmental disorders, and autism.www.dnadr.orgReferences in The Episode:Medical Academy of Pediatric & Special NeedsAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 213 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Today, I’m joined by Dawnmarie Gaivin, Founder & Executive Director of Spellers Center San Diego in Oceanside, CA.Dawnmarie was a trauma & transplant RN for over 11 years. In 2005, her first son was diagnosed with autism, followed by her second son a year later. Her eldest, Evan (20), is a fluent letterboard communicator, and her younger son, Trey (19), uses multiple communication methods.Dawnmarie, a former DIR/Floortime® provider and cofounder of the Spellers MethodTM, is now an Assistive Technology Specialist. In 2021, Jamison Handley and his dad, JB, wrote “Underestimated” about their journey learning to spell with her. JB shared their story in Episode 38.In 2023, the documentary SPELLERS, now on YouTube, showcased how spelling and typing have liberated many nonspeakers.Dawnmarie’s passion is to support nonspeakers in developing motor skills and reliable communication. The secret this week is ...Presume COMPETENCE, Here’s HowYou'll Discover:A Powerful Approach That Defies Skeptics (3:37)The Pivotal Role of Motor Skills (11:51)Language DOESN'T Require Speech (14:52)The Magic of Top-Down Regulation (16:50)The Brain-Body Disconnect (20:03)Who's A Fit For The Spellers Method (23:01)We See What We Believe (28:10)Why You Want To Be A Motor Coach (29:41)What the Spellers Method Looks Like And The Best Way To Start (39:52)The Three Phases of the Spellers Method (45:28)Why You Want To Rethink Expectations (51:41)An Important Thing To Keep in Mind (55:36)About Our Guest:Dawnmarie Gaivin is the Founder & Executive Director at Spellers Center San Diego, located in Oceanside, CA. Before her career moved into the world of nonspeaking autism, Dawnmarie worked for over 11 years as a trauma & transplant RN.  In 2005, her first son regressed and was diagnosed with autism. A year later, her second son followed the same path. Today, her eldest, Evan (20), is a nonspeaker and fluent letterboard communicator. Her younger son, Trey (19), is a minimal speaker who uses multiple modalities for effective communication.  Dawnmarie is a former DIR/Floortime® provider, cofounder of the Spellers MethodTM, and is currently an Assistive Technology Specialist (AT-ACP) as well.  In March 2021, Jamison Handley, a speller, and his dad JB wrote a book entitled "Underestimated" about their journey learning how to spell to communicate with her.  In 2023, the documentary SPELLERS was released - now available on YouTube - showcasing how spelling and typing as a method of communication have liberated many nonspeakers from a life of silence.  Dawnmarie's" children inspired her specific passion to support all nonspeakers in the development of purposeful motor skills and a reliable form of communication.  www.spellers.comReferences in The Episode:The documentary Spellers on YouTubeThe Spellers Guidebook by Dawnmarie Gaivan and Dana JohnsonAutism Parenting Secrets Episode 38 - Your Child Understands EVERYTHING with JB HandleyAutism Parenting Secrets Episode 140 - 26 Letters = INFINITE Possibilities with Elizabeth VossellerPrompt Speech TherapyAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What's YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.