I Should Say That Out Loud

Donna Brendel
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When Donna Brendel was diagnosed with autism as an adult, the drive behind her passion for advocacy made more sense than ever. Her special interest is fighting for hurting people. She has a lot to say, and she's finally ready to say it out loud.

  1. J.D. Barker on Autism, Writing, Business, Balance, and His Journey to Structure it all Successfully

    09/10/2025

    J.D. Barker on Autism, Writing, Business, Balance, and His Journey to Structure it all Successfully

    "Everything's a little scary until you understand it," is how J.D. Barker sums up the end of this incredible interview. In this episode of 'I Should Say That Out Loud,' host Donna Brendel engages in a deep conversation with bestselling author J.D. Barker about his journey as an autistic individual and how it has shaped his writing career. They explore the influence of Barker's Midwestern roots, the impact of autism on creativity, and the importance of structure in both writing and daily life. Barker shares personal anecdotes about his diagnosis, the challenges he faced, and the strategies he developed to succeed as a writer. The discussion also highlights the significance of reading, the business side of writing, and the encouragement for autistic individuals and their families to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their passions.J.D. is a true inspiration for anyone who desires to face their fears head on and overcome them, because he's done just that in so many instances. You will have much to chew on after listening, as J.D. will challenge, inspire, and encourage you, which is a scary endeavor. And well, that's what J.D. is best at, writing to bring about that emotional reaction that causes us to feel. Even when he talks about writing, he spurs an emotional reaction, and better yet, an encouraging and inspirational reaction. How amazing and wonderful is that!J.D.'s website: JDBarker.comChapters: 00:00 - Introduction to JD Barker and Writing Journey05:23 - Navigating Life with Autism09:57 - The Aha Moment of Diagnosis and Impact on Life and Career13:51 - The Role of Reading in Childhood and Beyond16:01 - Seeing Words in Color and Synesthesia19:09 - Exploring Character Development and Traits20:52 - Where Do Your Stories and Characters Come From?22:10 - Balancing Creativity and Business in Writing24:30 - Public Speaking - Overcoming a Huge Autistic Fear25:59 - The Emotional Connection to Characters26:42 - Writing Process and Daily Routine29:12 - The Balance of Structure and Creativity30:15 - Inspiration From Real Life31:06 - JD's Favorite Genre, the Thriller, Chasing the Emotional Reaction33:16 - The Impact of Reading on Personal Growth34:51 - The Plus Column of Autism - Focus, Creativity, Finishing Projects37:25 - Visualizing Characters and Settings38:09 - Seeing the World in Greater Detail39:33 - Communication: Verbally vs. Written41:06 - JD's Encouragement for Autistic Families42:41 - I See You, the Autistic Connection43:26 - The Idea of Writing a Memoir47:23 - Closing Thoughts and Future Works

    51 min
  2. Art and Autism: A Journey of Expression with Reclaimed Materials Artist Grant Maniér

    09/01/2025

    Art and Autism: A Journey of Expression with Reclaimed Materials Artist Grant Maniér

    In this engaging conversation, host Donna Brendel interviews artist Grant Maniér, who shares his journey with autism and how it has shaped his artistic expression. Grant discusses the therapeutic nature of his art, the materials he uses, and the messages he conveys through his work. He emphasizes the importance of finding joy, overcoming challenges, and using art as a means of communication. The conversation also touches on the impact of negative feedback and bullying, as well as the significance of storytelling in his art and books. Grant's positive outlook and motivation serve as an inspiration for others, highlighting that it's never too late to discover one's talents.Grant beautifully epitomizes what the best-selling author of "Flow," Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi has stated in his newest book "The Evolving Self." He explains that experiences, such that Grant has explained in this episode, "focus our whole being in a harmonious rush of energy, and lift us out of the anxieties and boredom that characterize so much of everyday life." Mihaly also says that, "any activity can do it," and Grant says that, "it's never too late to discover your talents."This is such great news for everyone, autistic and neurotypical, young and old, alike! Whatever your talent, whatever may bring you joy, be it cooking, reading, sports, enjoying nature, art, science, when you allow yourself to narrow your attention on that passion or talent, you can experience reduced anxiety and greater joy. May Grant's message be an encouragement to you today.Grant's Website: jigsawgrant.comInstagram: @jigsawgrantChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Grant Maniér and His Art01:39 - Understanding Autism and Its Impact on Art03:48 - The Art of Paper and Puzzle Pieces08:03 - Art as a Therapeutic Outlet09:10 - Watching People Appreciate Grant's Artwork10:09 - Grant's Process of Making Art11:57 - Grant's Inspiring Messages14:16 - A Beacon of Hope for Other Families17:25 - Perfectionism and Growth as an Artist18:31 - Art as a Language of Emotion20:24 - Stories Behind the Art22:18 - Overcoming Challenges and Bullying23:07 - Autism and Bullying aka Negative Feedback24:31 - Social Life and Friendships Through Art26:32 - Art as Communication27:32 - Conclusion and Where to Find Grant's Work

    30 min
  3. A Journey of Autism Awareness through Children's Books: with Author and Mother Dalisse Sequeiros

    07/11/2025

    A Journey of Autism Awareness through Children's Books: with Author and Mother Dalisse Sequeiros

    In this incredibly honest and vulnerable conversation, host Donna Brendel speaks with Dalisse Sequeiros, an author and digital specialist from Barcelona, about her journey as a mother of two autistic children and her mission to create children's books that provide representation and understanding of autism. They discuss the importance of social stories, anticipating changes, communication between parents, and building confidence in autistic children. Dalisse shares her experiences in writing and self-publishing her books, emphasizing the need for resources that help both children and parents navigate the complexities of autism. The conversation highlights the power of literature in fostering awareness and acceptance of autism in society. Dalisse and Donna also explore the challenges and joys of parenting autistic children, emphasizing the importance of acceptance, community support, and personal faith. They discuss practical strategies for navigating social perceptions of autism, coping with meltdowns, planning and communication, and balancing family responsibilities. The conversation also touches on the significance of trying new experiences and letting go of preconceived expectations as parents. Dalisse shares her personal faith journey and the role of prayer in her life, highlighting the interconnectedness of faith and autism. The discussion concludes with a focus on the importance of creating a positive environment for autistic children and the need for community support.Dalisse's new book, "Autism: New School Year" releases July 16, so order your copy on Amazon! All of her books are available in English, Spanish, and Catalan!!00:00 - Preview of Interview with Dalisse Sequeiros00:24 - Introduction to Dalisse Sequeiros03:52 - Navigating Autism: Personal Journeys08:41 - The Birth of Children's Books on Autism12:38 - Understanding Meltdowns and Emotions14:13 - Building Confidence Through Stories15:26 - Making Books So Our Kiddos Feel Seen and Understood16:28 - The Sweetest Mom Story - Filling a Need20:12 - The Books are Resources for Parents and Caregivers Too21:56 - The Global Autism Community and Connection23:50 - What Are "Social Stories" & Why Are They Helpful?26:30 - Visual Learning and Emotional Regulation29:37 - The Importance of Social Stories29:46 - The Importance of Anticipating the Unexpected32:26 - Understanding Anxiety and Self-Regulation33:37 - Preparing for New Experiences35:43 - Creating Resources for Autism Awareness37:25 - Creating a World Where Kids Don't Feel Bad About Autism41:38 - Balancing Family Life and Responsibilities45:13 - How Did You Develop Such a Beautiful Communication System?48:51 - Understanding Autism's Complexity50:02 - The Role of Faith in Parenting & Autism Diagnoses52:47 - Navigating Community and Support56:11 - Connecting with God: Faith and Autism59:03 - Communicating Faith to Our Non-Verbal Children01:01:27 - Autistic Family Outings - They're Important and Possible01:06:50 - Be the Parent that YOUR Kids Need01:09:28 - Empowering Through Resources and Community

    1h 11m
  4. The "Floating Balloon Concept" - My Autistic Way of Describing the Learning Process of Encoding

    06/17/2025

    The "Floating Balloon Concept" - My Autistic Way of Describing the Learning Process of Encoding

    In this episode, Donna Brendel explores what she calls the 'Floating Balloon Concept,' which illustrates the process of internalizing and encoding thoughts before projecting them outward through speech or the written word. She discusses the following concepts:- the challenges of grasping abstract ideas,- why memorization doesn't always work or stick, - the importance of personal experiences in learning, - and the role of the brain in communication,- the domino effect of learning, growing in confidence, creating boundaries, and better communication,- a plea to never give up on communication or your autistic loved one.The conversation emphasizes the need for patience and understanding, especially for individuals with autism, as they navigate their learning processes.Chapter Titles:00:00 - Projecting the Struggle of Autistic Communication02:54 - Introducing the "Floating Balloon Concept"07:28 - Why Memorization Doesn't Always Work08:50 - The Role of the Brain in Learning13:44 - Encoding, Grasping the Floating Balloon, & Anchoring it in Memory15:46 - Confidence Leads to Better Boundaries & Better Communication17:42 - Broca's - Wernicke's Area Grasping Communication Loop19:04 - The Brain, the Broca's-Wernicke's Engine, and Communication25:42 - People with Autism Need More Processing Time28:11 - Bringing Floating Balloons Within Reach32:48 - It Takes Patience, So Thank You in Advance!

    34 min
  5. Projecting a Brighter Future: An Autistic Journey | Realizing I Don't Need Permission to Thrive

    06/01/2025

    Projecting a Brighter Future: An Autistic Journey | Realizing I Don't Need Permission to Thrive

    In this mostly joyous while slightly emotional episode, Donna Brendel shares her journey as a late-diagnosed woman on the autism spectrum, focusing on the culmination of several of her projects this year. She focuses on the word project, specifically planning an undertaking, as she has been quietly doing for many years now, but is ready to say out loud and share her progress and continued goals. After waiting way too long for permission to do things she's wanted to do (that are an inherent right), she finally realized just how capable and smart she is and moved forward with several life goals. This can unfortunately happen for many people with autism when they are misunderstood and discounted for what they are capable of doing in life.She graduated with her first college degree with honors and awards, with plans to continue on this fall. She published her second book, continuing on in her seven-book "Autistic Revelations" memoir series, and she continues to plan for ever more advocacy efforts. She emphasizes the importance of understanding autism and integrating various aspects of life, such as play and education, into one's career. Donna also discusses her future goals, including public speaking and research, while encouraging listeners to engage with her work and support autism advocacy. She would like to thank all those who have come before her, all those who have joined her since she started, and all who will continue to move autism advocacy forward even against the wishes of those who think we need permission to stand up for ourselves. 00:00 - Celebration and Introduction01:05 - Understanding the Concept of 'Project: Planning an Undertaking'02:28 - Planning an Undertaking #1: Writing a Memoir Series05:14 - Planning an Undertaking #2: Advancing My Education08:27 - Integrating Life Experiences and Learning11:10 - Life Questions to Ponder14:37 - Planning an Undertaking #3: Cultivating Autism Advocacy17:27 - Planning an Undertaking #4: Research and Speaking24:40 - Sneak Peek, Farewell, and Bloopers

    26 min
  6. Autistic Voices & Research in the 21st Century: Part III Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years

    02/26/2025

    Autistic Voices & Research in the 21st Century: Part III Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years

    In this episode, Part III or her series on Autistic Trends and Data from the past 115 years, Donna Brendel delves into and intertwines insights from 21st century authors and researchers with the 20th century expert pioneers in Part II of this series. She starts with Ido Kedar's book and shares his beautiful and poignant voice after transforming from non-verbal to verbal through modern therapies and technology in autism. She defines autistic burnout through Jodie Clarke's book, how it relates to social exhaustion and depression, and how it is different and on another level at the same time. She discusses the evolution of autism understanding, the importance of communication, and emerging trends in autism therapy, emphasizing the need for a neuro-inclusive culture and the double empathy problem in interactions between autistic and neurotypical individuals through the book created by an incredible team at the Anna Freud National Centre for Children and Families. She shares the most recent data from the CDC on the prevalence of autism in America.Finally, she ties it all together with her personal experience of trial and error in self-care recovery and progress for herself and her family, and the fact that perseverance is important in trying many modalities of therapy until the right one if found for each child and adult on the autism spectrum. Chapters:00:00 - Part III: Trends & Data on Autism: Researchers & Autistic Voices From the 21st Century01:23 - Ido Kedar - on Finding His "Voice" Through New Autism Therapies11:41 - Navigating Autistic Adolescence, Anger and Sorrow16:11 - Motivation and Self-Acceptance in Autism22:11 - Autistic Burnout: Understanding and Addressing the Crisis27:14 - Collaborative Approaches: Improving Mental Health Services31:55 - Empowering Autistic Voices: Advocacy and Research39:01 - Trends in Autism: Data and Future Directions40:48 - Thoughts on Slowing Down, Cross-Body Therapy & Tying It All TogetherReferences used in Parts I, II, and III of this series:• Montesorri, M. (1912.) “The Montessori Method.” Frederick A. Stokes Company, New York.• Piaget, J. (1923 French, 1926 English, 1932 Second Edition, 1959 Third Edition.) “The Language and Thought of the Child.” Routledge, New York. • Gesell, A., M.D., Ph.D., Sc.D., (1945.) “The Embryology of Behavior.” Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York and London.• Jung, C. G., Dr., (1957, 1958.) “The Undiscovered Self.” Penguin Books, Ltd., London.• Kedar, I. (2012.) “Ido in Autismland: Climbing Out of Autism’s Silent Prison.” • Clarke, J. (2025.) “Stop the World I Want to Get Off: A guide to understanding and supporting the recovery of autistic burnout in children and young people.” Jessica Kinglsey Publishers, London.• Pavlopoulou, G., et al. (2025.) “Improving Mental Health Therapies for Autistic Children and Young People: Promoting Self-Agency, Curiosity and Collaboration.” Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York. • Autism and Development Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network (2023.) “Community Report on Autism 2023.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Congratulations to Donna Brendel and "I Should Say That Out Loud," for ranking number 5 on Feedspot's "25 Best Adult Autism Podcasts" based on relevancy, authority, social media followers and freshness.

    49 min
  7. Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years - Part II: Experts from the 20th Century

    02/21/2025

    Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years - Part II: Experts from the 20th Century

    In this episode, Part II of Trends & Data, Donna Brendel explores the origins of current trends by delving back to early 20th century experts and pioneers in teaching, child and adult psychology, and child development. She begins with the Montessori Method, discussing its historical significance and impact on education. She highlights the contributions of the pioneers of child psychology, Jean Piaget, and developmental milestones, Dr. Arnold Gesell, while pointing out Carl Jung's emphasis on the importance of understanding individuality in child development, particularly in the context of autism and neurodiversity. The conversation underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to child development that recognizes the unique trajectories of each child.Rounding out this series in just a few days, Part III, Researchers and Autistic Voices from the 21st Century, Donna will share beautiful and poignant progress from brave emergent researchers as well as autistic authors benefiting from new treatment methods. Autism has been around much longer than 115 years, and although progress has been painfully slow, we are finally making progress. Autistic voices are helping to PROJECT awareness, support, new research methods, and improved treatment modalities forward. It's a beautiful thing! If you haven't caught Part I yet, Five Current Trends in Autism, give it a listen while you wait for Part III to post.Congratulations to Donna Brendel and "I Should Say That Out Loud," for ranking number 5 on Feedspot's "25 Best Adult Autism Podcasts" based on relevancy, authority, social media followers and freshness.• Montesorri, M. (1912.) “The Montessori Method.” Frederick A. Stokes Company, New York.• Piaget, J. (1923 French, 1926 English, 1932 Second Edition, 1959 Third Edition.) “The Language and Thought of the Child.” Routledge, New York. • Gesell, A., M.D., Ph.D., Sc.D., (1945.) “The Embryology of Behavior.” Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York and London.• Jung, C. G., Dr., (1957, 1958.) “The Undiscovered Self.” Penguin Books, Ltd., London.• Kedar, I. (2012.) “Ido in Autismland: Climbing Out of Autism’s Silent Prison.” • Clarke, J. (2025.) “Stop the World I Want to Get Off: A guide to understanding and supporting the recovery of autistic burnout in children and young people.” Jessica Kinglsey Publishers, London.• Pavlopoulou, G., et al. (2025.) “Improving Mental Health Therapies for Autistic Children and Young People: Promoting Self-Agency, Curiosity and Collaboration.” Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York. • Autism and Development Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network (2023.) “Community Report on Autism 2023.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Footnote for 14:20-15:30In this segment, Donna Brendel is reading Jean Piaget's thoughts about autistic thinking. In her post-recording editing and follow-up research, she realized and wanted to be sure to highlight that Piaget's interpretation of the idea of autistic thinking in the 1920's was in a completely different context to what we mean when we speak of autistic thinking today in the 2020's. She will discuss this in more detail during her March episode. It's a fascinating nuance and revelation that has given her much food for autistic thought...Chapters for Part II00:00 - Part II: Trends & Data on Autism, Expert Thought Generators from the 20th Century02:05 - Insights from The Montessori Method06:05 - Considering the Influence of Two Thought Pioneers: Piaget & Gesell11:46 - Examining Child Thought with M. Jean Piaget's Writings19:00 - Moving to the Physical Aspect of Child Development with Arnold Gesell25:08 - Carl Jung's Insights on Individuality as Misrepresented in Research

    34 min
  8. Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years - Part I: Five Current Trends in Autism

    02/20/2025

    Autistic Trends & Data from the Past 115 Years - Part I: Five Current Trends in Autism

    In this episode, host Donna Brendel explores the importance of projecting autistic trends and data from both her perspective and personal experience, as well as from experts and other autistic authors going back 115 years!In this segment, Part I of a three-part series, she will delve into personal experiences and broader trends related to autism, neurodivergence, and burnout. She discusses the importance of living with margin, the need for workplace accommodations, and the value of neurodivergent perspectives. Additionally, she addresses challenges in daily living, shifts in perspectives on ABA therapy, and the current state of research in autism.Watch for Part II coming soon, Expert Thought Generators from the 20th Century, with insights and excerpts from important works by Dr. Maria Montessori, Jean Piaget, Dr. Arnold Gesell, and Carl Jung. Rounding out this is series, Part III, Researchers and Autistic Voices from the 21st Century. Donna will share beautiful and poignant progress from brave emergent researchers as well as autistic authors benefiting from new treatment methods. Autism has been around much longer than 115 years, and although progress has been painfully slow, we are finally making progress. Autistic voices are helping to PROJECT awareness, support, new research methods, and improved treatment modalities forward. It's a beautiful thing!Chapters for Part I:00:00 - Part I: Trends & Data on Autism from the Past 115 Years01:57 - Autistic Burnout - An Emerging Term, But Longstanding Trend08:06 - Trends in Reporting Autism in the Workplace14:17 - Challenges with Daily Living Activities18:26 - Exploring Alternative Autism Therapies to ABA21:53 - Autism Research Methods, We're Finally Getting SomewhereReferences shared throughout Parts I, II, and III of this series, in the order the are most thoroughly explored:• Montesorri, M. (1912.) “The Montessori Method.” Frederick A. Stokes Company, New York.• Piaget, J. (1923 French, 1926 English, 1932 Second Edition, 1959 Third Edition.) “The Language and Thought of the Child.” Routledge, New York. • Gesell, A., M.D., Ph.D., Sc.D., (1945.) “The Embryology of Behavior.” Harper & Brothers Publishers, New York and London.• Jung, C. G., Dr., (1957, 1958.) “The Undiscovered Self.” Penguin Books, Ltd., London.• Kedar, I. (2012.) “Ido in Autismland: Climbing Out of Autism’s Silent Prison.” • Clarke, J. (2025.) “Stop the World I Want to Get Off: A guide to understanding and supporting the recovery of autistic burnout in children and young people.” Jessica Kinglsey Publishers, London.• Pavlopoulou, G., et al. (2025.) “Improving Mental Health Therapies for Autistic Children and Young People: Promoting Self-Agency, Curiosity and Collaboration.” Routledge Taylor & Francis Group, London and New York. • Autism and Development Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network (2023.) “Community Report on Autism 2023.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Congratulations to Donna Brendel and "I Should Say That Out Loud," for ranking Number 5 on FeedSpot's "25 Best Adult Autism Podcasts" based on relevancy, authority, social media followers and freshness. Thank you FeedSpot for watching!

    24 min
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About

When Donna Brendel was diagnosed with autism as an adult, the drive behind her passion for advocacy made more sense than ever. Her special interest is fighting for hurting people. She has a lot to say, and she's finally ready to say it out loud.

Information

  • Creator
    Donna Brendel
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Donna Brendel
  • Show Website
    I Should Say That Out Loud