Pieces For My Puzzle

Nikki
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Arts
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where I, Nikki Shipp, invite you to join me on a journey through the intricacies of life as a wife to a dedicated police officer and a mother to an incredible autistic son. As a parent navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum, I understand firsthand the complexities and uncertainties that come with it. Through this podcast, I share my personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way. Pieces For My Puzzle is more than just a podcast; it's a beacon of hope and inspiration for parents and loved ones of special needs children. Whether seeking practical tips, a fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that you're not alone in this journey, this podcast is for you. Join me as we unravel the pieces of our puzzle together, finding strength, resilience, and, most importantly, a sense of community. Tune in for heartfelt discussions, uplifting stories, and the reassurance that there's always room for growth and joy amidst the challenges. Subscribe now and join our supportive community, where hope shines brightest, and every piece of the puzzle matters.

  1. Jul 9

    Regulation Before Strategy: Healing Yourself First with Tam Taouss

    This episode shines a light on the power of self-regulation,mindfulness, and daily practice as transformational tools for well-being. Joinus as Tam Taouss shares her wisdom, practical strategies, and real-lifeexperiences in Vedic Meditation and Breathwork—especially for parents andcaregivers navigating the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent children.Whether you’re new to mindfulness or looking for fresh inspiration, you’ll walkaway with encouraging insights and actionable steps to bring more balance,resilience, and self-compassion to your daily life.   Hear    how Tam's dynamic entrepreneurial background and personal journey led her    to become a leading voice in meditation, breathwork, and corporate    wellness. The    Unfiltered Reality: The realities of raising an autistic daughter and    why nervous system regulation matters so deeply for parents of    neurodivergent children. Regulation    Before Strategy: Discover the science behind nervous system regulation    and learn why healing yourself first is the ultimate key to successful    co-regulation with your kids. The    Power of Vedic Meditation and Breathwork: Tam explains how these    consistent daily practices build essential emotional resilience and help    you navigate both internal and external chaos. Simple    Practices for Busy Parents: Practical, realistic strategies to manage    stress, overwhelm, and burnout when you feel like you have nothing left to    give. Finding    the Balance: Navigating the tension between supporting your child's    delicate nervous system and advocating for the world to accommodate their    needs. Resources & How to Connect Website:    tamtaouss.com – Explore Vedic    Meditation courses, breathwork sessions, and coaching/mentor programs. Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/tamtaouss/    – Follow Tam for daily inspiration, tips, and direct contact via DM. Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579142199817    – Stay updated with Tam’s latest events and wellness insights. LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/tam-taouss-711a4110b/    – Connect for collaborations or professional inquiries. Email:    tam@tamtaouss.com For more on emotional regulation, Vedic Meditation, and waysto reclaim your daily calm, visit Tam’s website or reach out on social media. Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ If you found this episode inspiring, be sure to like,share, and subscribe to Pieces For My Puzzle! Leave us a comment below toshare your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect withyou.

  2. Jul 2

    Bright Kids, Struggling Readers: Understanding Dyslexia with Meagan Sardana

    Are you a parent, teacher, or advocate wondering how tosupport a bright child who struggles to read? In this episode, we sit down withMeagan Sardana, a speech-language pathologist on a mission to change thenarrative around dyslexia. Meagan defines dyslexia as a specific learningdisability rooted in challenges with phonological and phonemic awareness—not ameasure of intelligence—and clears up the misconceptions that leave so manycapable kids overlooked. She shares why telling a struggling reader to "soundit out" misses the mark, how audiobooks can build rich vocabulary andlanguage skills, and why the structured, multisensory Orton-Gillingham approachworks so well. We also explore the deep embarrassment, anxiety, and shame thatreading struggles can create, and how reframing the question to "What'sright with me?" can unlock the unique strengths many dyslexic thinkersbring to the world. Key Discussion Points: Defining    Dyslexia: Understanding dyslexia as a specific learning disability    rooted in phonological and phonemic awareness—and the key difference    between awareness of a language's sound system and the ability to    manipulate individual speech sounds. Why    "Sound It Out" Falls Short: Why this common advice misses    the mark, since decoding sounds is precisely what dyslexic brains struggle    to do. The    Emotional Impact: How reading struggles can lead to deep    embarrassment, anxiety, and shame that often persist into adulthood—and    how reframing to "What's right with me?" builds confidence. The    Strengths of Dyslexic Thinking: The unique cognitive gifts often tied    to dyslexia, from visual-spatial thinking (Steven Spielberg) to holistic,    big-picture vision (Jamie Oliver) and deep empathy (Keira Knightley). Structured    Literacy & Orton-Gillingham: What a systematic, sequential, and    multisensory approach looks like—and why engaging visual, auditory, and    kinesthetic pathways works so well. Practical    Support for Families: Evidence-based strategies parents and educators    can use, including audiobooks to build vocabulary and syntax, plus    advocacy for the right reading interventions. Resources: Visit    Meagan’s website for tutoring and educational resources: https://www.bythebooktutor.com/ Connect    with Meagan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meagan-sardana-m-s-ccc-slp-7328444b/ Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/bythebooktutoringservices Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/mwsardana/ Email:    meagan@bythebooktutor.com Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram or Facebook: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/   If you found this episode inspiring, be sure to like,share, and subscribe to Pieces For My Puzzle! Leave us a comment below toshare your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect withyou.

  3. Jul 1

    Grandparenting on the Spectrum & Autism Safety with Jennifer Kaufman

    Discover how a school principal and grandmother navigateautism, support families, and train first responders to keep neurodiverse kidssafe. Tune in now! In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Kaufman toexplore her powerful journey from both sides of the desk. We discuss practicalstrategies for grandparents, how to support adult children raising neurodiversekids, and the critical importance of autism safety training for lawenforcement. Whether you are a parent, educator, or first responder, thisepisode offers hope, humor, and real help. Key Topics Discussed: The    dual perspective of being both a school principal and a grandmother of an    autistic grandchild. The    biggest misconceptions grandparents have about autism, including the idea    that "he doesn't seem autistic." How    grandparents can support their adult children without overstepping—following    the parents' lead and listening without judgment. Creating    sensory-friendly, predictable home environments that help autistic    grandchildren feel safe and comfortable. How    First Response Autism trains police, first responders, and educators to    support neurodiverse community members. Shifting    perspective from "they're giving you a hard time" to    "they're having a hard time" to prevent crisis situations. The    power of unconditional presence—showing up consistently without trying to    "fix" everything. The    critical importance of water safety and swimming lessons for individuals    with autism. Guest Info and Contact Details: About Jennifer Kaufman: Jennifer Kaufman is a school principal, grandmother, author, and the founder ofFirst Response Autism. She offers authentic, lived experience to help familiesnavigate autism with practical strategies and deep understanding. Resources & Links: Read    the Book: Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides    of the Desk (Available on Barnes & Noble and Amazon) First    Response Autism: Learn more about autism support training for law    enforcement and get community safety resources for your family. Email    Jennifer (Grandparenting): jen@grandparentingonthespectrum.com Email    Jennifer (First Response): jennifer@firstresponseautism.com Follow    Jennifer on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn! (Search: Jennifer Kaufman) Visit    her website to book her for grandparent workshops, first responder    trainings, or school consultations. Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! #JenniferKaufman#GrandparentingOnTheSpectrum#AutismSupport#AutismParenting#GrandparentsOfAutism#SpecialEducation#AutismAdvocacy#FirstResponderTraining#AutismAwareness#NeurodiverseInclusion#Neurodiversity#AutismFamily#DeEscalationTraining#SpecialNeedsParenting#PiecesForMyPuzzle#AutismPodcast #ParentingPodcast

  4. Jul 1

    Calm Isn't Quiet: Shifting from Reactivity to Self-Mastery

    Feeling overwhelmed? Learn how to step out of survival modeand build calmness as a skill! Pennie Wilson shares the 5 Pillars of CalmSelf-Mastery to transform your leadership, parenting, and teaching. Discoverhow emotional regulation brings clarity and joy back into your life. Tune innow and take your first step toward true inner peace! Key Topics Discussed: The    hidden cost of holding it all together. Why    survival mode is a learned state, not a flaw. The    TED* framework for escaping reactive drama. Building    the 5 Pillars of Calm Self-Mastery. Navigating    the messy middle of parenting neurodivergent kids. Guest Info andContact Details: About Pennie Wilson: Pennie Wilson is a Mental Fitness coach, certified Hypnotherapist, and thefounder of Kokoro Creators. Drawing from her lived experiences, she helpsparents, teachers, and leaders move out of fight-or-flight mode and intogrounded self-mastery. Resources &Links: Take the Next Step: Ready to step    out of stress? Join Pennie's 2-hour Calm    Self-Mastery Reset. This guided experience offers practical tools to    build consistent inner practices for calmer responses and clearer    decision-making. Visit: https://kokorocreators.com/ ·       Take the Kokoro Mental Fitness Quiz! https://kokorocreators.com/quiz ·       Check out their blog at: https://kokorocreators.com/post/why-overthinking-feels-automatic Website: https://kokorocreators.com/ Email: pennie@kokorocreators.com Connect with Pennieon Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kokorocreators Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kokoro.creators/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennie-wilson-mental-fitness-coach/ Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/   If you found this episode inspiring, be sure to like,share, and subscribe to Pieces For My Puzzle! Leave us a comment below toshare your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect withyou. #PennieWilson #KokoroCreators #CalmSelfMastery #EmotionalRegulation #MentalFitness #SurvivalMode #ReactingVsResponding #TheEmpowermentDynamic #TEDFramework #CalmLeadership #LeadershipUnderStress #ParentingSupport #NeurodivergentParenting #AutismParenting #SpecialNeedsParenting #NervousSystemRegulation #StressManagement #OverwhelmedParents #MindfulParenting #SelfMastery #EmotionalResilience #ConsciousParenting #MentalHealthTools #ParentingPodcast #AutismPodcast #PiecesForMyPuzzle

  5. Jul 1

    A New Path for Autism: Understanding the Linear Autism Method with Jeanne Beard

    What if there were a more effective way to understand andsupport individuals on the autism spectrum? In this powerful episode, we sitdown with Jeanne Beard, founder of the National Autism Academy, author, andmother of three adult sons with autism. Drawing from a lifetime of personal and professionalexperience, Jeanne introduces the Linear Autism Method (LAM)—a groundbreaking approach developed with Dr. Tim Wahlberg.She explains why traditional methods can fall short and offers a new frameworkfor parents and therapists to foster function and success. Tune in to explore why autism seems more prevalent today,what truly drives behavior, and why parent training is a critical component ofsuccess. This conversation provides a fresh perspective and actionable hope foranyone living or working with autism. Guest Info and Contact Details About Jeanne Beard: Jeanne Beard is the founder of the National Autism Academy and the author of"Autism & The Rest of Us." With three adult sons on the spectrumand over 16 years of professional experience, she has dedicated her life totranslating the Linear Autism Method (LAM) into accessible training and supportfor families and professionals. Jeanne offers a unique, first-hand perspectiveon the pathway to success for individuals with ASD. Connect with Jeanneand learn more: Website: For autism solutions,    training, and information on the Linear Autism Method, visit the National    Autism Academy at: https://www.nationalautismacademy.com/ TikTok:National Autism    Academy on TikTok Learn More about LAM: Discover the    Linear Autism Method developed with Dr. Tim Wahlberg at: https://www.drtimwahlberg.com/ Linkedin    Profile Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-beard-44b367 Facebook    Profile Link: https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=national%20autism%20academy Email:    jeanne@nationalautismacademy.com Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/   If you found this episode inspiring, be sure to like,share, and subscribe to Pieces For My Puzzle! Leave us a comment below toshare your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you. #JeanneBeard#NationalAutismAcademy#LinearAutismMethod#AutismSupport#AutismParenting#AutismParentTraining#AutismEducation#AutismAwareness#AutismAcceptance#NeurodivergentFamilies#Neurodiversity#AutismStrategies#AutismBehaviorSupport#ParentTraining#AutismTherapist#TherapistSupport#SpecialNeedsParenting#AutismMoms#AutismDads#AutismFamily#NeurodivergentSupport#AutismPodcast#ParentingPodcast#SpecialNeedsPodcast#PiecesForMyPuzzle

  6. Jul 1

    From "I Hate Reading" to "I Love Reading" with Daniela Feldhausen

    Does your child struggle with reading and spelling? Do youworry they might have dyslexia or dysgraphia but don't know where to turn? Thisepisode is for you. We sit down with Daniela Feldhausen, a former attorneyturned special education expert and founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors. Daniela shares her incredible journey and unpacks the"Science of Reading"—arevolutionary, evidence-based approach that is transforming struggling studentsinto confident readers in months, not years. Tune in to learn the early warning signs of dyslexia,understand the difference between general tutoring and targeted intervention,and discover practical strategies parents can use to support their children.Whether your child is just starting their reading journey or is an olderstudent who has always struggled, this conversation offers real solutions and ahealthy dose of hope. Guest Info and Contact Details About DanielaFeldhausen: Daniela Feldhausen is the founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, a team ofspecialists helping students across the country overcome reading challengeslike dyslexia and dysgraphia. After 25 years as an attorney, she pursued herpassion for education and now uses evidence-based, structured literacy programsto help kids find confidence and success in reading. Connect with Danielaand learn more: Website: For more information    about reading, dyslexia, and to schedule a call with Daniela, visit: https://KidsUpReadingTutors.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidsupreading LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-feldhausen-1a3b5b244/ Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/   If you found this episode inspiring, be sure to like,share, and subscribe to Pieces For My Puzzle! Leave us a comment below toshare your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

  7. Apr 9

    Empowering Families – Melissa Reiner’s Parent Training and Tools (Part 2)

    Welcome back to the second part of our incredibleconversation with renowned autism consultant and educator, Melissa Reiner. Inthis episode, we dive deeper into the practical side of parent training andexplore how we can better communicate with neurodivergent children. Melissashares her powerful evolution from working as a one-on-one therapeuticcompanion to collaborating with the entire family unit to foster trueconnection and growth.We explore the vital importance of understanding the"why" behind a child's behavior, rather than simply reacting to it.Melissa also introduces her transformative OGC technique (Observe, Guess,Explore, Communicate) and explains how shifting from questions and commands tosimple "I statements" can drastically reduce a child's anxiety.Furthermore, she offers profound insights on navigating divorce andco-parenting while prioritizing the emotional well-being of the kids. Melissa'sbroader mission to support families shines through every story and strategy sheshares.Key Talking Points:Parent    Training Evolution: Melissa discusses how her practice shifted from    one-on-one therapy to collaborating with the whole family, including    siblings and grandparents, to advocate effectively for children.Understanding    the "Why": Discover why looking past the surface of a    behavior to understand the root cause is essential. Melissa shares a    touching story of a child struggling on the playground simply because he    did not know how to play.The    Power of "I Statements": Learn how questions and commands    can trigger anxiety, and how replacing them with simple, factual "I    statements" creates a calmer environment.The    OGC Technique: Melissa breaks down her step-by-step communication    framework: Observe without judgment, Guess the child's feelings, Explore    the reasons why, and Communicate through collaboration.Navigating    Divorce and Co-Parenting: We share personal experiences and vital    advice on communicating with children during a divorce, emphasizing the    need to validate their feelings and reassure them that they remain a    family.Conversation    over Confrontation: An exclusive sneak peek into Melissa's upcoming    book, which is packed with real-life stories from her incredible work with    families.Resources Mentioned:Company Name: Melissa Reiner SpeaksWebsite: http://Www.AskMNow.comPhone Number: (818) 613-1793E-mail: MReinerSpeaks@gmail.comLinkedin Profile Link: https://linkedin.com/in/melissa-reiner-med-9a880823Instagram Profile Link: https://Instagram.com/MelissaReinerSpeaks Enjoying the show?If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you!Connect With Us: §  Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle§  Emailus:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com§  Learnmore:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com§  Checkit out! We are one of the

    Empowering Families – Melissa Reiner’s Parent Training and Tools (Part 2)

  8. Apr 2

    Behind the Scenes with Melissa Reiner – Autism Awareness in Media: Part 1

    We are thrilled to welcome Melissa Reiner to the show for afascinating conversation about the intersection of autism advocacy and theentertainment industry. With over 20 years of experience supporting families,educators, and institutions, Melissa is a renowned autism consultant, educator,and speaker. In this episode, we dive deep into her groundbreaking workas the autism consultant for the entire eight-year run of ABC’s hit series, TheGood Doctor. Melissa shares her journey into autism consulting and explains howshe played a pivotal role in shaping the show’s authentic portrayal of autism.We also explore her experience collaborating with Jason Reitman onGhostbusters: Afterlife and FOX’s ALERT, highlighting why accuraterepresentation in media matters more than ever. Beyond Hollywood, Melissaintroduces us to her revolutionary OGEC four-step technique, a powerful methodthat helps individuals improve communication, overcome behavioral challenges,and build resilience. Key Talking Points: The Path to Consulting: Melissa    shares how she got her start in the field of autism consulting and what    led her to work in the entertainment industry. Authenticity on Screen: A look    inside her role on The Good Doctor and the steps she took to ensure the    portrayal of autism remained genuine throughout the show's eight-year run. Hollywood Collaborations: Melissa    discusses what it was like working on major film and television projects    like ABC’s The Good Doctor and Ghostbusters: Afterlife. The Power of Representation: We    explore the massive impact that shows like The Good Doctor have on public    awareness and understanding of autism. Overcoming Challenges: Melissa    opens up about the biggest hurdles she faced while consulting on these    massive projects and the memorable breakthroughs she experienced on set. The OGEC Technique: Discover    Melissa’s revolutionary four-step technique designed to empower families    and improve communication. A Mission of Compassion: We wrap    up by discussing Melissa's broader mission to inspire understanding, build    authentic relationships, and drive impactful advocacy worldwide. You will not want to miss this insightful conversation! Tunein to hear Melissa's incredible behind-the-scenes stories and learn how she ischanging the landscape of autism awareness. If you enjoy the episode, pleasehit subscribe, leave us a review, and share this podcast with your friends tohelp us spread this vital message of understanding and compassion. Resources Mentioned: Company Name: Melissa Reiner Speaks Website: http://Www.AskMNow.com Phone Number: (818) 613-1793 E-mail: MReinerSpeaks@gmail.com Linkedin Profile Link: https://linkedin.com/in/melissa-reiner-med-9a880823 Instagram Profile Link: https://Instagram.com/MelissaReinerSpeaks   Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support he

    Behind the Scenes with Melissa Reiner – Autism Awareness in Media: Part 1
See All (127)

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where I, Nikki Shipp, invite you to join me on a journey through the intricacies of life as a wife to a dedicated police officer and a mother to an incredible autistic son. As a parent navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum, I understand firsthand the complexities and uncertainties that come with it. Through this podcast, I share my personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way. Pieces For My Puzzle is more than just a podcast; it's a beacon of hope and inspiration for parents and loved ones of special needs children. Whether seeking practical tips, a fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that you're not alone in this journey, this podcast is for you. Join me as we unravel the pieces of our puzzle together, finding strength, resilience, and, most importantly, a sense of community. Tune in for heartfelt discussions, uplifting stories, and the reassurance that there's always room for growth and joy amidst the challenges. Subscribe now and join our supportive community, where hope shines brightest, and every piece of the puzzle matters.

Information

  • Creator
    Nikki
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    127
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Pieces For My Puzzle
  • Show Website
    Pieces For My Puzzle