Pieces For My Puzzle

Nikki
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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. DEC 18

    Advocacy in Action: Leadership & Family with Olivia Fryer

    What happens when personal experience meets professional dedication? On this episode, we are honored to welcome Olivia Fryer, the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. Since 2014, Olivia has been a tireless advocate for the disability community, a role deeply influenced by her life as a mom to two sons, one of whom is an autistic AAC user. Olivia brings a powerful perspective to the conversation, blending her insights as a parent with her professional background at organizations like Southwest Human Development, Arizona Autism United, and T.E.A.M. 4 Kids. A bilingual leader and recipient of the 2023 Gabe Zimmerman Emerging Champion Award, she shares how she is turning passion into tangible community action. Join us for a discussion on safety, sibling support, and the future of advocacy. Key Topics: A     Mother’s Mission: Olivia shares how her personal journey raising an     autistic son who uses AAC has shaped her compassionate approach to     leadership and advocacy. Bridging     Safety Gaps: We discuss the critical need for safety education and what     led Olivia to become a certified instructor for programs like BE SAFE and     Safety on the Spectrum. Supporting     Siblings: As a Sibshops facilitator, Olivia offers unique insights into     the sibling experience and shares practical ways families and communities     can offer better support. Policy     and Committees: From local commissions to national committees for the     Autism Society of America, learn about the key issues Olivia is fighting     to bring to the forefront right now. Advice     for Emerging Leaders: Fresh off her recognition as an Emerging Champion,     Olivia offers advice on how to turn a passion for service into sustainable     change. Guidance     for New Families: Looking ahead, Olivia shares what excites her most about     her current work and leaves us with one essential piece of advice for     families just starting their diagnosis journey. Resources Mentioned: Olivia Fryer at Autism Society of Greater Phoenix Website: https://phxautism.org/ Phone Number: (480) 779-0899 E-mail: olivia@Phxautism.org Enjoying the show? If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us bring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergent families. Thank you! Connect With Us:  §  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/   If you

    42 min

  2. OCT 2

    Planning for Your Child’s Future – Financial Strategies with Mike Ringel

    Raising a child on the autism spectrum comes with incredible joys—and unique financial challenges. In this episode, we talk with Mike Ringel, a financial professional who helps families create long-term plans that prioritize security, stability, and peace of mind. We cover: ·         The first financial steps parents of autistic children should take ·         How to plan for therapies, education, and long-term care ·         Why estate planning is essential for families with special needs children ·         How to move from feeling overwhelmed to empowered with your money Mike’s client-first approach is about more than numbers—it’s about giving parents the tools and confidence to build a safe, supported future for their children. About Mike Ringel Mike Ringel is a financial professional who specializes in helping families plan for life’s biggest milestones with clarity and confidence. With a client-first approach, Mike guides parents through investing, retirement, and estate strategies—but what makes his work especially meaningful is his commitment to families raising children with unique needs. By thinking outside the box and focusing on long-term security, Mike helps parents ensure that their children’s futures are financially supported, safe, and full of possibility. Resources Mentioned o    Website: https://www.mikeringel.com/ o   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeringel/ Connect With Us:  §  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Check it 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 to share your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

    37 min

  3. SEP 25

    Harnessing Talent and Transformation with MaLinda Perry

    In this episode of Pieces For My Puzzle, we sit down with MaLinda Perry—designer-turned-Gallup-certified Strengths coach and founder of Happy Girls Don’t Do That. With over 20 years of experience in the design world and a passion for strengths-based development, MaLinda helps creatives, families, and leaders aim their natural talents for transformational results. We explore her bold career shift from interior design to coaching, the story behind her unapologetic brand name, and how Strengths strategies can combat burnout, heal family dynamics, and empower young people. MaLinda shares practical tools for setting goals you’ll actually follow through on, why focusing on strengths beats the fix-what’s-broken mindset, and her mantra for living big: “Do epic sh*t!” ·        Topics Covered [bullet point 3 key topics] o   A fresh perspective on leveraging your natural talents (not just fixing flaws) o   Real-world tips for tackling creative burnout and overwhelm o   Insights on using Strengths to improve relationships—at work and at home o   One powerful action step you can take today to aim your strengths with confidence ·        About: MaLinda Perry · MaLinda is a designer-turned-Gallup certified Strengths coach and founder of MaLinda Perry Consulting LLC (aka “Happy Girls Don’t Do That”) in Gillette, WY. With 20+ years in the design world and a passion for strengths-based development, she equips creative professionals, teams, and families to unlock their natural talents using CliftonStrengths. Whether guiding blended families, executives, or young people, MaLinda champions a clarity-and-confidence-first approach—because “When you aim your Strengths, the outcome is profoundly different. Learn more about MaLinda Perry at http://www.malindaperryconsultingllc.com/. Connect with Malinda on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/malinda.perry.273768/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/malinda.perry/ ·        Resources Mentioned [NOTE: all links must be the full url link, no hyperlinks] o   http://www.malindaperryconsultingllc.com/ o  https://www.linkedin.com/in/malinda-perry-60535b8 o   https://www.instagram.com/malinda.perry/ ·        Call to Action o   Connect With Us:  §  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Check it 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 to share your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

    32 min

  4. SEP 18

    The Colorful Capes of Feelings – Helping Kids Navigate Big Emotions

    In this episode, we sit down with Andre and Constance Lewis, the husband-and-wife duo behind Miles and the Colorful Capes of Feelings. Inspired by their son Miles and their journey as parents, they’ve created a children’s book series that empowers kids to express emotions, build resilience, and strengthen family bonds through creativity and play. We talk about: The personal story behind the Colorful Capes of Feelings series How parents can support kids in navigating big feelings Why “thinking like a kid” is a powerful tool for emotional connection Their mission to inspire confidence, compassion, and resilience in families  Learn more about the books: Colorful Capes of Feelings If you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver looking for fun, practical tools to help kids express emotions, this conversation is for you. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes that support families navigating life’s challenges with hope and creativity. About Jane Elliot Andre and Constance Lewis are the husband-and-wife team behind Miles and the Colorful Capes of Feelings, a children’s book series designed to help kids navigate emotions with creativity and confidence. Drawing from their backgrounds in pediatric dentistry and women’s health, as well as their own parenting journey with their son Miles—who inspired the books—they’ve created a mission-driven project that empowers families to embrace big feelings with empathy, resilience, and play. Resources Mentioned o   Website: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com o   Instagram: @colorful_feelings.books   Connect With Us:  §  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Check it 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 to share your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

    34 min

  5. SEP 11

    Building a Future of Hope with Les Townsend of BT Property Services

    In this powerful episode of Pieces For My Puzzle, we talk with Les Townsend, founder of BT Property Services, about how his son Colton’s autism diagnosis completely reshaped his perspective on parenting, purpose, and legacy. Faced with the reality of raising a child who falls into the “quiet space” between neurotypical and state-supported, Les turned frustration into determination—creating a business designed to provide stability, independence, and a future not only for his son, but for other families walking a similar path. Les opens up about the emotions of diagnosis, the challenges of navigating systems not built for kids like Colton, and how autism has taught him patience, resilience, and a deeper way of listening. We explore how his personal journey inspired his business, what it means to build a legacy rooted in love, and how his mission is resonating with other families in the Phoenix metro area. Topics Covered [bullet point 3 key topics] ·      A raw and relatable look at parenting a child in the “gray area” of autism support ·      Insights into turning challenges into purpose and building a legacy for your child’s future ·      Encouragement and practical wisdom for parents feeling unseen by traditional systems ·      This conversation is equal parts personal, inspiring, and deeply practical—offering a reminder that while autism may rewrite the future you imagined, it can also create a path filled with purpose, community, and hope. Learn more about Les Townsend at http://btproservices.com/ ·      Resources Mentioned o  To get in touch with Les, please visit him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/les-townsend-83a45a2/ o  Visit BT Property Services: http://btproservices.com/   ·       Call to Action o   Connect With Us:  §  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle §  Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com §  Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com §  Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ #autism #autismparenting #parentingspecialneeds #specialneeds #autismcommunity #neurodivergent #neurodivergentsupport

    36 min

  6. AUG 14

    Beyond the Pages: A Sibling’s Insight into Autism with Janet Elliot

    In this episode of Pieces For My Puzzle, author Janet Elliot joins us to share her powerful memoir, The Alien Savant, and her deeply personal journey as the sibling of an autistic brother. Through her heartfelt storytelling, Janet offers a unique lens on autism, weaving together humor, history, and hard-won wisdom from growing up alongside her brother Michael in Ontario’s special needs education system of the ’60s–’80s. We discuss what inspired her to write the book, how she balanced authenticity with universality, and the lessons Michael taught her about resilience, connection, and seeing the world differently. Janet also opens up about her advocacy work, her approach to infusing humor into challenging topics, and what she hopes readers and listeners—whether caregivers or simply curious—will take away from her story. Topics Covered o  A simbling’s honest and compassionate perspective on Autism o  Insights into the historical landscape of special needs education o  Practical wisdom for navigating advocacy and storytelling with heart o  Encouragement to find humor and hope in even the toughest seasons. About Jane Elliot Janet Elliot, author of The Alien Savant, shares a deeply personal and enlightening perspective on life as the sibling of an autistic individual. Her book highlights her brother’s unique experiences and strengths while offering powerful insights into the sibling dynamic within the autism community. Through her writing and storytelling, Janet provides a heartfelt and nuanced lens on autism, fostering understanding and connection for families, advocates, and anyone seeking to broaden their knowledge.   Resources Mentioned 👉 Website: https://www.myguidedpen.com Connect With Us:  Follow us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle Email us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com Learn more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com Check it 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 to share your biggest takeaway—we’d love to hear your thoughts and connect with you.

    29 min

  7. JUL 31

    Building Dreams Without Sacrificing Family: Gabs Hayes’ Blueprint for Success

    This week on Pieces For My Puzzle, host Nikki Shipp welcomes Gabs Hayes, an inspiring business coach and mother of three, including a child with special needs. Gabs shares her powerful story of navigating life’s challenges, from parenting a daughter with severe asthma to making life-changing decisions for her family’s well-being. With grace and resilience, she has turned her experiences into a mission to support other parents who are balancing the complexities of family life and entrepreneurship. Join us for an honest and heartfelt conversation about motherhood, grief, inspiration, and finding a meaningful balance between your dreams and family commitments. Key Discussion Points Gabs’ Journey as a Mom Gabs discusses her experiences raising a child with severe asthma and other conditions, including the decision to relocate her family from Georgia to Arizona to improve her daughter’s health. Finding Strength Through Loss After enduring the stillbirth of her son, Gabs explains how she found the strength to rebuild and offers practical advice for parents coping with loss. Balancing Parenthood and Ambition Gabs shares how she helps parents see that they can pursue their dreams without sacrificing family time, focusing on sustainability and realistic goals tailored to their lives. Advice for Overwhelmed Moms With empathy and lived experience, Gabs provides tips for moms struggling to keep up, reminding them that they are enough and that it’s okay to take care of themselves too. Making an Impact Gabs discusses her vision for her work, her passion for helping entrepreneurial parents, and her message for families facing similar struggles.   Resources Mentioned Learn more about Gabs Hayes and her coaching services on gabshayes.com About the Guest Gabs Hayes is a business coach and mentor specializing in helping entrepreneurial parents achieve sustainable success. A mother of three, Gabs brings her unique perspective and practical strategies to support parents in building the lives they envision without compromising their family values. Connect with Us! Follow     us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle Email     us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com Learn     more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com ·        Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Needs Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ Thank you for tuning in, and we’ll see you next week for another heartfelt conversation!

    34 min

  8. JUL 24

    Building a Safe Haven for Neurodiverse Learners with Dare To Be Academy

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with the founder of Dare To Be Academy, Ashlee Dollar, a passionate mom of an autistic child who turned her personal challenges into a groundbreaking educational mission. This episode dives into her extraordinary journey, from navigating life as a mother of a neurodiverse child to creating a home-based microschool where autistic and neurodiverse learners can thrive. Learn how Dare To Be Academy is breaking barriers with its tailored, sensory-friendly learning environment, passion-driven curriculum, and focus on life skills. You'll hear about the obstacles faced during its creation, the profound rewards of working with neurodiverse children, and heartfelt advice for parents seeking the right educational path for their kids. Key Takeaways The Founder’s Journey Discover how being a mom of a child with autism shaped her life and inspired a larger vision. The Story Behind Dare To Be Academy Learn what makes this microschool unique and its approach to supporting neurodiverse children. Insight into the struggles of creating a school and the resilience required to succeed. Advice for Parents Valuable tips for advocating for your child’s needs and finding the right environment. Dare To Be Academy’s Mission and Vision Explore the future goals of the academy and how you can support this important work. Links & Resources Email Dare To Be Academy at daretobeacademy@gmail.com Feeling inspired? Support Dare To Be Academy’s mission or share this episode with a parent who needs encouragement. Visit www.daretobeacademy.com for more details or connect with the academy to learn how you can get involved. Connect With Us:  Follow     us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle Email     us:  Info@piecesformypuzzle.com Learn     more:  www.piecesformypuzzle.com ·        Check it out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/

    35 min
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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 - 2025
  • Episodes
    117
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Pieces For My Puzzle
  • Show Website
    Pieces For My Puzzle