Finding Hope on the Spectrum

Brooke Wagner

Are you worried about your autistic son's or daughter's future and quality of life? Do you want to feel empowered to be the intuitive parent you know you are? Or are you a curious professional, seeking to learn and discover how to best reach your autistic clients? I invite you to join our community of growth seeking individuals as we connect, share and support each other. This show will feature heart to heart conversations with parents, professionals, and autistic individuals sharing personal insight and life experiences. We will dive deep into supports, programs, and stories that inspire us.

  1. 3 MAR

    Beyond the Autism Diagnosis: Healing the Biofield, Regulating the Nervous System | Ep. 47

    Brooke hosts “Finding Hope on the Spectrum” with Dr. Nima, a former engineer who turned to holistic healing after a heart crisis. Facing a pacemaker recommendation for severe palpitations, he discovered Kirlian photography in Russia. By scanning himself daily, he resolved his symptoms within six months by balancing body systems and emotions. He views humans as layered energetic systems and discusses how "downward causation" and chronic stress drive inflammation. Dr. Nima compares the body to an onion where the outer biofield shows distortions before physical illness. He uses German sensors and respiratory biofeedback to measure the autonomic nervous system. His work with 2,000 people across 20 medical centers shows reductions in chronic pain after six sessions. He leads Gaia Healers (join.gaiahealers.com) and Gaia Seekers (gaiaseekers.com), a nonprofit tied to Biofield University. The episode connects these ideas to autism, focusing on parent regulation and gut health. Dr. Nima uses sound therapy, photobiomodulation, and biofeedback for autistic children, reporting immediate improvements in posture and digestion. Scanning also helps identify uncommunicated emotions. He details color therapy (e.g., green for love) via light, food, or baths. Visit https://www.google.com/search?q=NimaFarshid.com for referrals and info on his Orlando healing homes and conferences. 00:00 How Biofield Scans Help Autistic Kids Understand Emotions00:52 Welcome to Finding Hope on the Spectrum + Introducing Dr. Nima03:01 Health Crisis Wake-Up Call: Palpitations, EKG, and the Pacemaker Ultimatum04:33 From Pre-Med Dreams to Software Success—and Back to a Healing Mission07:26 World Travels for Answers: Discovering Bioenergy Tech in Russia08:51 Daily Scans & Pattern Recognition: Fixing the Root Causes Behind Symptoms10:20 We’re More Than a Physical Body: Upward vs. Downward Causation Explained13:56 Measuring Emotions in the Body: Anger, the Liver, and Subconscious Stress16:45 Releasing Old Trauma: Revisiting Childhood Patterns to Heal the System19:10 From Personal Breakthrough to Global Movement: Practitioners, Protocols, Proof23:28 “Seekers Become Healers”: Building Gaia Healers & Gaia Seekers Communities29:46 What Is the Biofield? The Onion-Layer Analogy and Early Warning Signs33:58 Reframing Breakups: Healing the Biofield Through Perspective Shifts34:48 When Grudges Seep In: Energy Overload, Homeostasis, and System Breakdown35:33 Scanning the ‘Onion’: Measuring Outer Biofield vs Inner Bioenergy Layers36:42 New Tools from Germany & Italy: Pulsar Sensors, ANS Testing, and Biofeedback Fixes39:50 Clinical Results & Recharging Organs: Restoring Lost ‘Charge’ After Dysregulation42:14 Chronic Stress Explained: Cortisol Rhythm, Inflammation, and Fight-or-Flight Living45:09 Coherent Parents, Calmer Homes: How Regulation Impacts Autistic Kids47:34 Water, Thoughts, and Frequency: Measuring Emotions + the Rice Experiment50:20 Autism Session Walkthrough: Sound Therapy, Photobiomodulation, and Breath Reset53:10 Gut Issues & Remote Breathwork: Regulating the ANS to Restore Digestion55:41 How to Get Started: Practitioners, Conferences, Healing Homes, and Online Community57:22 Color Therapy 101: Using Frequency via Light, Food, Oils, and Baths59:58 Closing Reflections: Mission, Oneness, and Staying in Touch Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum:Email: ⁠bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411⁠Linkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/⁠Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrumTikTok: Findinghopeonthespectrum Guest Contact:https://gaiahealers.com/

    1h 3m
  2. 16 FEB

    Screen Time Showdown: Are Video Games Hurting or Helping Our Neurodivergent Kids? | Ep. 45

    In this episode of 'Finding Hope on the Spectrum,' host Brooke converses with Dr. Deb Budding, a board-certified neuropsychologist, about the impact of video games on neurodivergent children. They explore the balance between healthy and unhealthy gaming, emphasizing self-regulation over obedience. Dr. Budding shares insights on the evolving gaming landscape, the importance of understanding content, and how parents can effectively manage their children's screen time. They also discuss the role of video games in social engagement and the need for community support among parents navigating similar challenges. 00:00 Introduction and Importance of Self-Regulation 01:19 Welcome to Finding Hope on the Spectrum 02:11 Today's Topic: Video Games and Family Concerns 03:10 Guest Introduction: Dr. Budding 03:37 The Evolution of Video Games 04:31 Parental Concerns and Game Content 05:33 Roblox and Age Restrictions 07:00 Hyperfocus and Self-Regulation 10:58 Balancing Screen Time and Physical Activity 26:03 Therapeutic Benefits of Video Games 27:57 Challenges of Online Safety and Social Interaction 34:10 The Importance of Reducing Stress for Neurodivergent Kids 34:54 Balancing Privacy and Supervision for Kids Online 38:46 The Role of Self-Regulation and Co-Regulation 39:41 The Power of Explaining the 'Why' to Neurodivergent Kids 41:01 The Evolution of Video Games and Parental Involvement 42:22 The Therapeutic Benefits of Video Games 46:40 Encouraging Outdoor Activities and Animal Therapy 47:45 The Challenges of Parenting Neurodivergent Kids 52:54 The Ever-Changing Landscape of Parenting and Technology 56:35 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum: Email: bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/ Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum TikTok: Findinghopeonthespectrum Guest Contact: https://deborahbudding.com/ Resource: https://www.crossplay.news/

    1h 5m
  3. 9 FEB

    Leucovorin, Fecal Transplants, and the Future of Autism Care | Ep. 44

    In this episode of Finding Hope on the Spectrum, host Brooke welcomes back Dr. Lisa Loegering, an integrative developmental pediatrician, for an in-depth discussion on leucovorin and gut therapies. They explore the FDA's approval of leucovorin for cerebral folate deficiency, its off-label use for autism, and how it differs from other forms of folate supplements. Dr. Loegering also discusses the benefits of using compounding pharmacies and the importance of complementary nutrients like B12. The conversation extends to gut-based interventions such as fecal transplants and how parents can start working on their child's microbiome at home. Practical advice and actionable steps are provided for families seeking to support their neurodiverse children. 00:00 FDA Approval and Initial Buzz Around Leucovorin 01:42 Introduction to the Podcast and Today's Guest 02:21 Deep Dive into Leucovorin and Its Uses 03:21 Understanding Folinic Acid and Its Forms 06:08 Compounding Pharmacies vs. Commercial Pharmacies 08:45 Deciding to Try Leucovorin and Testing 12:23 Challenges and Considerations in Using Leucovorin 18:21 Additional Nutrients to Enhance Leucovorin's Effectiveness 23:53 Broader Context and Final Thoughts on Leucovorin 26:51 Recap of Previous Episodes 27:22 Introduction to Gut-Based Interventions 28:34 Fecal Transplant Studies and Challenges 34:07 Microbiome and Autism 36:03 Practical Tips for Parents 40:55 Medications vs. Nutritional Supports 49:09 Final Thoughts and Recommendations Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum: Email: bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/  Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum  TikTok: Findinghopeonthespectrum Guest Contact: http://lisajlmd.com/

    53 min
  4. 26 JAN

    Beyond Diagnosis: Neurodiversity Without Pathology | Ep. 42

    In this episode of 'Finding Hope on the Spectrum,' Brooke hosts Dr. Deborah Budding, a board-certified neuropsychologist with a rich background in neurodiversity, neuroscience, and sensory sensitivities. The conversation dives deep into topics such as the role of the cerebellum in autism, the importance of understanding sensory sensitivities, and the dynamic nature of neurodivergent experiences. Dr. Budding also touches on the importance of a non-pathologizing approach to neurodiversity, the intersection between different types of neurodivergence, and the value of sensory-friendly environments. The episode also covers practical tools for parents and professionals, highlighting compassionate, non-coercive methods to support neurodivergent individuals. 00:00 Understanding Auditory Sensitivities 01:02 Introduction to Finding Hope on the Spectrum 01:45 Meet Dr. Deborah Budding 01:58 The Role of the Cerebellum in Autism 02:16 Dr. Budding's Background and Interests 03:50 Video Games and Neurodivergent Kids 05:38 Sensory Motor Function and Assessments 06:37 Autism in Families and Neurodivergence 07:17 Behavior and Neurology 09:00 Sensory Sensitivities and Regulation 10:05 Synesthesia and Reading Challenges 11:26 The Importance of Sensory-Friendly Environments 12:40 Cerebellum's Role in Movement and Emotion 13:50 Challenges of Neurodivergent Individuals 16:38 The Impact of Sensory Issues on Daily Life 28:29 Late Identification and Masking in Women 30:20 Cultural Expectations and Autism 31:28 Creating Sensory-Friendly Environments 33:56 Communication and Understanding in Autism 35:08 Interventions and Emotional Regulation 36:37 Understanding Emotional Intensity 37:13 Perspectives on Autism and Neurodiversity 38:51 Animal-Assisted Therapy Benefits 39:30 The Importance of Somatic Interventions 40:36 Trauma and Complex PTSD in Late Diagnosed Individuals 56:56 The Role of Humor and Resilience 57:50 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum: Email: bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/ Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum TikTok: Findinghopeonthespectrum Guest Contact: deborah.budding@gmail.com Website: https://deborahbudding.com/

    1h 3m
  5. 19 JAN

    Unmasking to Survive: Burnout, Healing, and Reclaiming Self with Chris Carazas | Ep. 41

    In this episode of 'Finding Hope on the Spectrum,' host Brooke dives into an enlightening conversation with Chris Carus, a Paraguayan American writer and autistic adult. Diagnosed with autism in adulthood, Chris shares his profound journey through years of masking, the emotional toll it took, and the inevitable burnout that followed. Through his memoir 'Now that I'm Still Here: A Memoir of Ruin and Resurrection,' Chris reveals the harsh realities of living with autism and enduring an abusive marriage. He discusses his purpose-driven mission to support mental health causes and provides a raw, honest look into his healing process. This conversation sheds light on the importance of small steps in recovery, the necessity of understanding one's limits, and the transformative power of authentic living. Chris's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and offers hope to the neurodiverse community navigating similar struggles. 00:00 Understanding Masking and Its Emotional Toll 01:22 Introduction to Finding Hope on the Spectrum 02:04 Meet Chris Carus: A Journey of Survival and Resilience 03:46 Chris's Mission: The Road for 2000 07:24 Early Signs of Autism and Masking 12:28 The Emotional Toll of Masking and Burnout 18:30 Chris's Memoir: From Ruin to Resurrection 27:11 The Importance of Trusting Instincts 28:11 Rebuilding After Trauma 30:35 The Non-Linear Path of Healing 31:39 Support Systems in Healing 36:19 The Role of Small Steps in Recovery 40:51 Lessons for Autistic Adults and Families 43:49 Message of Hope for Those in Ruin 45:24 Closing Remarks and Resources Connect with Finding Hope on the Spectrum: Website: www.findinghopeonthespectrum.com Email: bwagner@findinghopeonthespectrum.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574918739411  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-wagner-4819233a/  Instagram: @findinghopeonthespectrum  Workshop Link: https://www.findinghopeonthespectrum.com/connected-communication Guest Contact: https://chriscarazas.com/

    49 min

About

Are you worried about your autistic son's or daughter's future and quality of life? Do you want to feel empowered to be the intuitive parent you know you are? Or are you a curious professional, seeking to learn and discover how to best reach your autistic clients? I invite you to join our community of growth seeking individuals as we connect, share and support each other. This show will feature heart to heart conversations with parents, professionals, and autistic individuals sharing personal insight and life experiences. We will dive deep into supports, programs, and stories that inspire us.