Is Anybody Listening

Episode 9 - Finding Your Tribe with Ranzi and Jacie

In this episode, Ranzi and Jacie share their journeys with finding their tribes. They discuss the emotional and practical challenges faced by parents, from diagnosis through daily caregiving, and the importance of support networks and community. Sharing heartfelt stories, the hosts emphasize the significance of understanding, inclusion, and finding joy amidst hardships.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:36 Welcome to Holland: A Metaphor for Special Needs Parenting
03:13 The Journey of Parent Meetups and Advocacy
07:25 The Importance of Autism Conferences
11:23 Daily Challenges and Triumphs of Autism Parenting
19:32 Balancing Family Dynamics and Personal Well-being
28:39 The Role of Caretaker in Families
29:08 Fears and Concerns of Autism Parents
31:31 Hope for the Future: Group Homes and Independence
34:16 The Importance of Community and Support
39:26 Navigating Social Interactions and Misconceptions
43:48 Practical Support and Understanding
52:54 Finding Positivity Amidst Challenges
53:49 Concluding Thoughts and Poem

Episode 8 - What if it Goes Wrong? (School Advocacy)

In this episode of 'Is Anybody Listening', Jenna, Jacie, Ranzi & Claire dive into the complexities of special education advocacy. They provide insights on understanding IEPs, managing conflict resolution in schools, and the significance of parent advocacy. The hosts also highlight resources available for parents and the importance of creating a supportive community for families with special needs children.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:44 Common Struggles and Questions
01:17 When Things Go Wrong
01:33 Building a Collaborative Team
03:44 Navigating IEP Meetings
06:20 Conflict Resolution Steps
14:14 Behavioral Assessments and Plans
16:27 Disciplinary Actions and Support
22:00 Handling School Communication Challenges
23:09 Advocating for Your Child's Needs
24:29 Understanding Special Education Rights
25:46 Utilizing Advocacy and Support Networks
27:50 Engaging with Legislators and Officials
33:00 Resources for West Virginia Families
38:24 National and Local Support Groups
41:52 Conclusion and Next Steps

Episode 7 - School Supports and IEPs (The Meat and Potatoes)

In this episode, hosts discuss school services for children with disabilities, focusing on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 plans, and SAT plans. They explain legal guidelines, the evaluation process, and types of support available. Ranzi and Jacie share their experiences transitioning their children from early intervention to school-based services. The hosts also address the importance of parental involvement and advocacy within the special education system.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Rating Request
00:22 Discussing School and Education Post-Diagnosis
00:54 Understanding School Services and Federal Laws
01:53 IEPs, 504 Plans, and SAT Plans Explained
09:22 Navigating Early Intervention and School Transitions
22:45 The Evaluation Process and Timelines
29:25 Understanding Special Education Eligibility
30:40 Navigating Educational Needs and Services
31:07 Eligibility Categories Explained
32:25 State Variations in Eligibility Criteria
33:19 IEP Coding and Challenges
37:16 IEP Structure and Goals
41:52 Accommodations and Modifications
44:41 Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
49:15 Procedural Safeguards and Parental Rights
52:54 Independent Educational Evaluations (IEE)
53:33 Conclusion and Next Steps

Episode 6 - What do I do Now? The Ins and Outs of Medical Recommendations

Autism and Medical Complexities: Genetic Testing, GI Issues, Sleep, and More In this episode of Is Anybody Listening?, the hosts discuss a range of medical issues related to autism, including genetic testing, gastrointestinal concerns, seizures, ENT issues, and sleep problems. They provide advice on navigating these medical complexities, share personal experiences, and highlight the importance of informed decision-making for parents of autistic children. The hosts also touch on mental health comorbidities and the differences between psychiatrists and psychologists.
 
00:00 Introduction and Subpoena Update
00:42 Medical Issues Related to Autism
01:40 Genetic Testing and Autism
09:10 Seizures and Neurological Concerns
12:10 Gastrointestinal Issues in Autism
17:01 ENT and Sleep Issues
22:36 Recognizing Signs of Illness in Children
25:39 Sleep Issues in Autistic Children
27:32 Medication Considerations for ADHD and Autism
30:07 Understanding Psychiatric Comorbidities
32:55 The Role of Psychologists and Psychiatrists
37:05 Nutritional and Medical Concerns
40:14 Autism in Adults and Demographic Insights
42:25 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

Episode 5 - What Do I Do Now? Next Steps After Diagnosis

In today's episode, the hosts discuss the steps parents can take after receiving an autism diagnosis for their child. They cover the importance of getting on waitlists for therapies like ABA, OT, and speech, and emphasize the benefits of early intervention. Personal experiences with different types of therapies, including practical advice for navigating the healthcare system and making informed decisions, are shared. They also touch on the emotional journey for parents and the value of being flexible and proactive in seeking and utilizing resources.

Episode 4 - Is it Autism? Testing for Older Children and Teens

In this episode, Claire and Jenna discuss the process of evaluating autism in older children, addressing why assessments may be sought later in life and how they differ from evaluations in younger kids. They discuss different things it COULD be if it isn't Autism, and they touch on the benefits of autism diagnosis for adults and offer guidance for families navigating this complex process.

Episode 3 - Behind the Curtain of an Autism Evaluation

On today's episode, Jenna, Jacie, Ranzi, and Claire discuss the evaluation process for young children being assessed for Autism Spectrum Disorder. They provide insights from both parent and provider perspectives, demystify common procedures, and explore what providers look for during assessments. The episode also addresses sensory processing issues, developmental milestones, and other potential diagnoses.

Episode 2 - The Early Days

In this episode of Is Anybody Listening?, hosts Jenna, Jacie, Ranzi, and Claire discuss early signs of Autism, sharing personal experiences and clinical insights. They review the DSM diagnostic criteria, focusing on sensory issues, social communication deficits, and repetitive behaviors. The hosts emphasize the importance of early intervention and tailored support, while also sharing their challenges navigating pediatric advice and the diagnostic process.

Episode 1 - You Don’t Get it Until it Happens to You

In the first episode of Is Anybody Listening?, Ranzi and Jacie share their experiences recognizing early signs of Autism in their children, exploring the emotional and practical challenges of the diagnosis. Jenna and Claire, experts in child psychology, discuss their work with developmental disorders. The episode highlights early intervention, navigating medical and educational systems, and the importance of community and support for special needs parents.

Is Anybody Listening Season 1 Introduction