Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

Jennifer Dantzler
  • 5.0 (7)
  • NON-PROFIT

Every voice deserves to be heard, and every story has the power to inspire. Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism is a podcast dedicated to amplifying the neurodiverse community. Hosted by Jennifer Dantzler, a passionate advocate and educator, this show brings together autistic individuals, parents, educators, and community members to share real experiences, expert insights, and practical strategies. From navigating daily life to advocating for inclusion, each episode offers heartfelt conversations, powerful stories, and valuable resources to help us all better understand and support neurodiversity. The podcast where neurodiverse voices take center stage.

  1. S3-Ep 24: From Confusion to Confidence: How Parents Can Navigate School Advocacy

    FEB 18

    S3-Ep 24: From Confusion to Confidence: How Parents Can Navigate School Advocacy

    Advocating for your child at school shouldn’t feel overwhelming — but for many families, it does. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with education advocate and consultant Dr. Kaci Sheridan to break down what parents need to know about IEPs, ARDs, and school advocacy — and the mistakes that can unintentionally harm a child’s progress. Together, they unpack the five most dangerous advocacy mistakes parents make, including waiting too long to ask for help, agreeing to “wait and see,” staying silent when they disagree, and allowing behavior to overshadow a child’s disability. Dr. Sheridan explains why collaboration matters, how to translate education jargon into plain language, and how parents can protect their child’s rights without immediately turning to legal action. This conversation is empowering, practical, and validating — especially for parents who feel confused, intimidated, or emotionally overwhelmed in school meetings. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why “wait and see” can cost your child time, progress, and confidence What it really means when an IEP isn’t written in understandable language How silence in meetings can be recorded as agreement — and how to protect yourself Why behavior is communication, not defiance How documentation and data can shift outcomes for your child Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis or years into the school system, this episode will help you move from reactive to strategic advocacy — and remind you that you are not alone. ✨ Resources mentioned in this episode are available in the show notes.

    43 min
  2. S 3: Ep 23-What Parents Need to Know About Speech Therapy, AAC, and Collaboration with Speech Pathologist and Brite Success Owner Melanie Johnston, M.A., SLP, CAS.

    FEB 4

    S 3: Ep 23-What Parents Need to Know About Speech Therapy, AAC, and Collaboration with Speech Pathologist and Brite Success Owner Melanie Johnston, M.A., SLP, CAS.

    In this powerful episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with longtime colleague and speech-language pathologist Melanie Johnston to explore one foundational truth: everyone deserves a voice. Melanie shares nearly three decades of experience supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities across the lifespan—from early childhood through adulthood. Together, they unpack why communication is about far more than spoken words, how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can reduce anxiety and increase language, and why there is no “too late” when it comes to finding a voice. This conversation dives deep into: The difference between speech and communication Why AAC does not prevent verbal language—and often supports it The importance of true AAC evaluations and feature matching Why so many devices are abandoned—and how to prevent it Supporting communication during transitions to adulthood Why collaboration between speech, ABA, OT, and families leads to better outcomes How listening differently can completely change progress With real-life stories, professional insight, and moments that will stay with you long after the episode ends, this conversation is a must-listen for parents, professionals, and anyone passionate about meaningful, inclusive communication.

    39 min
  3. S3-Ep 22: Beyond the Label: Christine & Madilyn’s Story of Growth and Determination

    JAN 21

    S3-Ep 22: Beyond the Label: Christine & Madilyn’s Story of Growth and Determination

    In this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Christine Biddle—a mom, BCBA, and fierce advocate—to explore what it truly means to go beyond the label. Christine shares her daughter Madilyn’s early diagnosis story, the challenges and breakthroughs of navigating ABA therapy, and the small victories that became stepping stones toward independence. From learning tiny receptive instructions to developing self-advocacy skills as a teenager, Christine gives listeners an honest look at the real work, real emotions, and real joys of raising a child on the spectrum. She also discusses how becoming a BCBA transformed not only her professional life, but her parenting, giving her a deeper understanding of behavior and compassion for the families she serves. Christine also introduces The Rise Community, the nonprofit she founded to empower individuals with disabilities through meaningful work, social opportunities, and high-quality artisan products—proving that ability far outweighs any label. This episode is full of encouragement for newly diagnosed families, reminders to celebrate small wins, and powerful insights on autonomy, independence, and holding high expectations with thoughtful accommodations. Whether you are a parent, professional, educator, or ally, this conversation will leave you inspired to keep advocating, keep empowering, and keep shining.

    20 min
  4. S3-Ep 21: How to Help People With Autism Get a Night’s Sleep: Tips From Armando Bernal, BCBA, Certified Behavioral Sleep Specialist

    JAN 7

    S3-Ep 21: How to Help People With Autism Get a Night’s Sleep: Tips From Armando Bernal, BCBA, Certified Behavioral Sleep Specialist

    Sleep challenges are one of the most common—and exhausting—concerns for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler welcomes back Armando Bernal, BCBA, CEO of Autism International Consulting, to discuss why sleep is so difficult for so many autistic individuals—and what can actually help. Armando shares insights from his new credential as a Certified Behavioral Sleep Specialist, breaking down how routine, structure, environment, and behavior all play a role in healthy sleep. Together, they explore common contributors to sleep struggles, including inconsistent schedules, screen time, anxiety, sensory needs, and unsustainable bedtime habits. This conversation offers practical, family-friendly strategies—such as using visual schedules, creating calming sleep environments, teaching self-soothing skills, and knowing when to rule out medical concerns—while reminding families to give themselves grace during the process. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or autistic adult navigating sleep challenges, this episode provides guidance, reassurance, and hope for more restful nights and better days.

    37 min
  5. S2-Ep 20: Our Amazing Minds: Teaching Kids About Autism with Jeffrey & Laura May

    12/10/2025

    S2-Ep 20: Our Amazing Minds: Teaching Kids About Autism with Jeffrey & Laura May

    In this inspiring episode, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with authors Jeffrey and Laura May, creators of the children’s book Our Amazing Minds—a beautifully written, inclusive story that helps kids understand autism through the eyes of four autistic friends. The Mays share how their son experiences inspired them to create a resource they couldn’t find anywhere else: a book that explains autism to children in a positive, honest, and developmentally appropriate way. Together, we explore why representation matters, how early conversations reduce stigma, and how this book is helping both neurodiverse and neurotypical kids feel seen, understood, and included. Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or community member, this episode offers practical insight, heartfelt honesty, and a hopeful reminder that inclusion begins with understanding. Learn more about the book at OurAmazingMinds.org or find it on Amazon.

    25 min

  6. 11/19/2025

    S2-Ep 19: Shining Through at Disney: Michael’s Story of Growth, Determination & Inclusion

    In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with former intern Michael Rickli, a young adult on the spectrum who is now thriving as an employee at Disney. Michael opens up about his early years—being diagnosed at age five, not speaking consistently until elementary school, navigating changes, and overcoming academic challenges. He shares his path from special education supports to graduating early from high school, earning a double major from the University of Houston, and following his dream all the way to Disney. Michael’s story is a beautiful reminder that with support, opportunity, and encouragement, autistic individuals can shine in countless ways. His journey is full of resilience, growth, and magic—Disney magic included. Whether you're a parent, educator, employer, or autistic individual yourself, this episode will leave you inspired, hopeful, and reminded of the power of believing in someone’s potential. ✨ Listen now and keep shining!

    21 min
  7. Ep: 18 Prepare for the Future: Special Needs Trust Explained

    11/12/2025

    Ep: 18 Prepare for the Future: Special Needs Trust Explained

    Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to ensuring long-term security for a loved one with a developmental disability. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Catherine Byers from Rosenblatt Law Firm to break down the essentials of Special Needs Trusts — what they are, how they work, and why they’re an important part of future planning. Catherine offers clear, practical guidance for families seeking peace of mind — from protecting eligibility for government benefits to ensuring that funds are managed responsibly and compassionately. This episode is proudly sponsored by FEAT Houston, whose mission is to improve the quality of life for those affected by developmental disabilities by increasing resources and providing information about Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).   ✨ Tune in to learn: The difference between first-party and third-party trusts How to choose the right trustee When and how to start the planning process Common mistakes to avoid when setting up a trust Listen now and take one step closer to securing your loved one’s future.

    33 min
  8. Ep 17: A Student & Parent’s Perspective on Neurodiverse Classrooms

    10/29/2025

    Ep 17: A Student & Parent’s Perspective on Neurodiverse Classrooms

    In this heartwarming episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Erica and Mason Johnston, a mother-and-son duo with a powerful story about what real inclusion looks like inside the classroom. Mason, now a high school student, reflects on his early years growing up alongside peers with autism in an inclusive learning environment—and how that experience shaped his understanding of empathy, acceptance, and community. Erica shares a parent’s perspective on how communication, collaboration, and intentional planning helped inclusion thrive in their school culture. Together, they remind us that when inclusion is done right, everyone grows. ✨ Tune in to hear: How early exposure to inclusion shapes lifelong compassion What schools can do to truly embrace “different, not less” A teen’s firsthand insight into how inclusion changes the way we see the world Listen now and be inspired to “just do it”—make inclusion a natural part of everyday life.

    36 min
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About

Every voice deserves to be heard, and every story has the power to inspire. Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism is a podcast dedicated to amplifying the neurodiverse community. Hosted by Jennifer Dantzler, a passionate advocate and educator, this show brings together autistic individuals, parents, educators, and community members to share real experiences, expert insights, and practical strategies. From navigating daily life to advocating for inclusion, each episode offers heartfelt conversations, powerful stories, and valuable resources to help us all better understand and support neurodiversity. The podcast where neurodiverse voices take center stage.

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