The one where a mother's journey of understanding her autistic son becomes a journey of understanding herself, transforming the way her family experiences connection. In this episode of MindKind CONNECTED, Liz is joined by Jacqueline Balsamo for a heartfelt conversation about parenthood, neurodivergence, nervous system regulation and the power of connection. As a mother of two boys, including her youngest son Nicolas, who is autistic, Jacqui shares how her experience of parenting challenged everything she thought she knew about raising children, communicating and creating a sense of safety. What began as a desire to better understand her son's needs became a journey of self-discovery. Through curiosity, reflection and a willingness to look inward, Jacqui began recognising her own patterns, emotional responses and expectations, discovering how understanding herself could help her connect more deeply with her children. Together, Liz and Jacqui explore what happens when we begin to see behaviour through the lens of nervous system regulation, sensory experiences and individual needs. They discuss the importance of co-regulation, the different ways children communicate and how creating safety and connection within a family can sometimes mean letting go of what we think things should look like. Jacqui also shares the challenges her family has navigated within the education system, the importance of advocating for neurodivergent children and why greater understanding of the nervous system, inclusion and individual differences is so important in our schools. Throughout the conversation, one message continues to emerge: connection begins with curiosity, compassion and a willingness to understand ourselves and one another. From the everyday moments of play and presence to the importance of finding stillness and recognising our own needs, this episode offers an honest and empowering perspective on parenting, personal growth and creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. And perhaps one of the most beautiful reminders Jacqui shares is that every child deserves the opportunity to grow in their own way, in their own time. Whether you're a parent, educator or someone wanting to deepen your understanding of connection, this conversation invites you to reflect on how curiosity and compassion can change the way we relate to ourselves and those around us. A little connection goes a long way. Connect with Jacqueline Balsamo Jacqueline Balsamo is an author and advocate for greater understanding, inclusion and connection. Inspired by her experiences raising her autistic son, Nicolas, her work encourages curiosity, compassion and a deeper appreciation of the different ways children experience the world. Her children's picture book, The Playground, is inspired by her family's journey and opens up important conversations about inclusion, belonging and understanding individual needs. Instagram: @jacqueline_balsamo Website: www.jacquelinebalsamo.co Book: The Playground Connect with Liz Liz Farah is the founder of The YOU Movement and host of MindKind: The Podcast, helping individuals, parents and young people develop greater self-understanding, self-trust and self-leadership. Instagram: @the.you.movement Website: www.youmovement.com.au About MindKind CONNECTED CONNECTED is a special MindKind podcast series created for Mental Health Month 2026, exploring the many ways connection shapes our wellbeing, relationships and sense of belonging. The series is proudly supported by a WayAhead Mental Health Month grant, celebrating this year's theme, A Little Connection Goes a Long Way. Learn more: WayAhead: https://wayahead.org.au/ Mental Health Month: https://wayahead.org.au/mentalhealthmonth/ Mental Health Month resources: https://wayahead.org.au/mentalhealthmonth/downloadable-resources/
