Autism for Badass Moms

Rashidah Cartwright
  • 5.0 (37)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

"Autism for Badass Moms" is your guide to becoming that badass, mentally and emotionally strong mother you know you can be. Each week we shed light on the emotional journey through heartfelt conversations with autism moms, we uncover the raw, authentic experiences that shape your life. In each episode, we discuss everything from finding balance in the chaos, regulating your nervous system, and setting healthy boundaries. The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you seen or heard from the podcast.

  1. 23h ago

    Ep. 142 - How an Infection Led Us to Autism with Nykyta

    In this heartfelt episode of Autism for Badass Moms, hostRashidah sits down with Nykyta "Kyta" Arnold, a Georgia mom of three, to share the story of her youngest son Omry's autism journey. After the infection resulted in hearing loss, speech therapy was recommended to support his development. It was during those therapy sessions that the possibility ofautism was first raised. Nykyta opens up about navigating the uncertainty ofdevelopmental delays, processing an unexpected diagnosis, and learning to trust her instincts as a mother. She reflects on the fears, questions, and emotional challenges that many autism moms face, while also sharing how her experienceraising two neurotypical boys helped prepare her for a path she never anticipated. Throughout the conversation, Nykyta discusses faith,resilience, advocacy, and the importance of embracing the child in front of you rather than the expectations you once held. Her story is a reminder that while life can change in an instant, parents are often stronger than they realize. Whether you're newly navigating a diagnosis or years intoyour journey, this episode offers encouragement, understanding, and hope from a mother who has walked a similar path.   In this episode, we discuss: 0:00 – Episode Intro 0:55 – Guest bio — Nykyta Arnold3:27 – Welcome Nykyta / getting into her story3:48 – Omry's story begins — birthday party, high fever, urgent carevisit7:33 – The 4 AM call: positive bacteria test, rushed back to thehospital9:36 – How Motrin actually saved Omry's life (the anaphylactic reaction)11:10 – Motrin allergy revealed + urticaria explained14:10 – Nykyta’s cousin (the pediatric nurse) spots hearing loss15:16 – Babies Can't Wait program fast-tracks Omry to speech therapy15:48 – Speech therapist recommends autism testing17:21 – Diagnosis around Omry’s second birthday17:22 – Anger, guilt, and the "what ifs"19:37 – Carrying the blame of daycare during COVID19:38 – How is Omry doing now? ABA therapy, first words, sassy attitude26:18 – Finding community — the power of autism mom groups27:22 – Nykyta starts giving back (inclusive Santa experience)29:49 – Where to find Nykyta33:10 – Message to the mom struggling with the "what ifs"34:08 – "Give yourself grace. You are not alone."   Connect with Nykyta: Instagram: www.instagram.com/jasmine_amore Instagram: www.instagram.com/omar.autism.support   Connect with Autism for Badass Moms Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast   If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to: -Follow the podcast -Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across theglobe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this

    38 min

  2. Jun 2

    Ep. 141 - Finding My Footing in a World I Never Planned to Enter with Quanisha

    In this episode of the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast, host Rashidah sits down with Maryland autism mom and advocate Quanisha Mitchell to discuss her family's journey to an autism diagnosis and everything that came after. Quanisha shares how her son, Amir, was initially diagnosed with a speech delay and sensory processing disorder before receiving an autism diagnosis in October 2025. She opens up about the challenges that intensified when Amir entered kindergarten, including elopement, frequent meltdowns, behavioral concerns, and the constant calls from school that ultimately led her to make the difficult decision to leave her career in cardiology and begin homeschooling. Together, Rashidah and Quanisha discuss the emotional complexities of receiving a diagnosis, navigating long waitlists for services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ABA, and managing the isolation that can come when family members don't fully understand your child's needs. Quanisha also speaks candidly about sleep regression, community outings, self-care, and the mental load many autism moms carry behind the scenes. Beyond advocacy for her own son, Quanisha has transformed her experience into purpose. She shares the inspiration behind Mom and Me Story Co., where she creates autism-friendly books and sensory tools for families, as well as her Autism Inclusion Initiative nonprofit, dedicated to promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 00:43 After the Diagnosis 02:01 Meet Quanisha Mitchell 04:40 Early Signs Dismissed 05:12 Kindergarten Crisis 09:45 Mixed Diagnosis Emotions 10:36 Community Outings Meltdowns 12:01 Family Reactions Support 14:08 Daily Struggles Sleep 15:56 Homeschooling New Rhythm 17:27 Leaving Work Reality 19:42 Homeschool Resources 22:08 Self Care Sleep Tips 23:38 Building Online Village 23:44 Finding Your Village 25:34 Speaking Up Online 26:38 Waitlists and Early Help 29:15 Where to Connect 29:57 Sensory Printables and Books 32:58 Nonprofit and Community Events 33:58 Advice for New Moms 36:14 Badass Advocate Mindset 37:50 Small Wins and Sleep Tips 40:52 Final Signoff and Guest Call Connect with Quanisha: Learn more about Mom and Me Story Co., her Autism Inclusion Initiative, and the resources she is creating for autism families. Instagram: www.instagram.com/therealquanisha_ Facebook: Theautisminclusioninitiative Tik Tok: ajourneywithamir Check out Quanisha’s Books: Kai and the Magic Headphones https://a.co/d/017ZsHJN What the Animals Love Sensory: Children’s Coloring Book https://a.co/d/09ej7FvR If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to: -Follow the podcast -Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    42 min

  3. May 26

    Ep. 140 - Beyond the Diagnosis: Rethinking How We Support Neurodivergent Children with Roshenna

    In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with autism advocate and certified autism coach Roshenna “Ro” McHaney for a powerful conversation about rethinking how we support neurodivergent children. Together, they discuss the importance of shifting away from deficit-based thinking and focusing instead on children’s strengths, emotional safety, and individualized support needs. Ro shares her son’s journey to diagnosis, including early signs of advanced learning abilities paired with social struggles, school misunderstandings, suspensions, and the difficult process of advocating for proper educational support through ARC meetings and IEP planning. She opens up about the emotional toll families experience when children are misunderstood and emphasizes the importance of persistence, research, yearly IEP revisions, and meeting children where they are. The conversation also explores Ro's upcoming app, Superhero Summit, launching in August. Designed to bridge communication between home, school, and community, the platform will include tools such as a “Knowledge Vault” for diagnoses and IEPs, calendars, trigger tracking, educator communication features, parent forums, and future “Superhero Certified” training for businesses seeking to create more inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals and families. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 01:04 Episode Mission 02:36 Meet Roshenna 04:27 Diagnosis Journey Begins 07:15 Early Social Clues 09:04 Fighting for Support 12:10 Advocacy Armor On 14:17 Tailored School Plan 18:48 IEP Meetings Strategy 23:02 Pivotal ARC Moment 24:26 Superhero Summit App 26:13 Features Vault Forum 30:00 Kryptonite Triggers Tab 31:42 Teacher Access Explained 32:49 Beyond Autism Use Cases 33:46 Building the App Team 35:09 August Launch 37:28 Business Certification Tab 41:41 Scaling Global Access 44:51 Top Three Rethinks 48:12 Letting Go of Norms 50:14 Wrap Up 54:21 Guest Application Connect with Roshenna: Be sure to head over to the Superhero Summit website to learn more about the app and how this platform aims to better support neurodivergent children and their families. Website: https://superherosummit.online Instagram: www.instagram.com/superhero_summit22 Facebook: Superhero Summit If this episode resonated with you: • Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite platform • Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community • Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstood Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast YouTube: autismforbadassmoms Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions that empower and uplift.

    55 min

  4. May 19

    Ep. 139 - Two Sisters. One Child. One Autism Journey with Jessica

    In this powerful episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah speaks with Jessica Pereira from the Bronx, NY, about raising her daughter Ja’Niyah, who was diagnosed with autism at age 2.5. Jessica shares how her bond with her sister, Chasity, evolved into a deeply connected co-parenting partnership rooted in unconditional love, advocacy, and autism acceptance. Together, they have created a home where stimming is welcomed, communication in all forms is honored, and Ja’Niyah is embraced exactly as she is. This heartfelt conversation explores sisterhood, support, neurodiversity, and helping autistic children thrive without forcing them into conventional molds. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 00:55 Why Moms Need Support 03:02 Meet Jessica Pereira 04:52 Bronx Beginnings 05:53 Early Signs and Referral 08:27 Diagnosis Day and Next Steps 10:44 Mom Guilt and Sister Steps Up 14:38 Single Mom Survival Mode 15:57 School Trauma and Homeschool Choice 19:04 Aggression and Communication Tools 21:51 Sister Co Parenting System 28:05 Acceptance Stimming and Public Stares 30:13 Future Fears and Big Love 33:52 Routine Changes and Respite 35:45 Sister as Lifeline 38:28 Dating and Limited Support 40:35 ADHD and Mental Health 43:45 IEP and School Struggles 46:38 Gratitude and Softening Up 49:02 Mourning Expectations 53:16 Badass Mom Reality 57:08 Advice to Keep Going 01:00:58 What Makes Her Badass 01:03:38 Closing and Call to Action Connect with Jessica: Instagram: www.instagram.com/crzyfantasy128 Facebook: Jessica Janette If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to: -Follow the podcast -Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    1h 6m

  5. May 10

    Ep. 138 - Bonded Without Words: A Sibling Love Story with Brittany

    Host Rashidah celebrates Mother’s Day on “Autism for Badass Moms,” honoring the sacrifices and advocacy of autism moms, and introduces a conversation about sibling love and connection in an autism household. Guest Brittany Saunders, from University City, St. Louis, shares her journey raising Mason (10), who is non-verbal and diagnosed with autism in 2019, and Savannah (7). After initial denial, Brittany pursued occupational, speech, and physical therapy, noting Mason’s growth, love of technology, and emerging communication. Brittany describes how Savannah naturally built a fierce, supportive bond with Mason—encouraging him in therapy and school, defending him, and helping with routines—while Brittany also remains intentional about giving Savannah individual attention. Brittany discusses future planning, self-care, her village, faith, and her work and baking, including social handles and a planned spectrum-friendly party offering. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 00:43 Mothers Day Tribute 02:45 Why Sibling Bonds Matter 04:17 Meet Brittany Saunders 06:10 Early Signs And Denial 08:26 Diagnosis And Therapy Grind 12:01 Finding His Voice 13:28 School During COVID 14:37 Savannah The Champion 20:03 Explaining Autism To Siblings 26:15 Future Planning And Independence 34:34 Making Savannah Feel Seen 37:33 Shout Out Grandma  39:36 Family Village Support 42:13 Sibling Bonding Moments 44:17 Sibling Rivalry Realities 46:40 OCD Loops Meltdown 51:56 Puberty New Challenges 54:00 Self Care Quiet Time 01:00:29 Finding Brittany Online 01:04:41 Advice For Struggling Moms 01:07:44 Badass Mom Wrap Up 01:11:42 Guest Call To Action Connect with Brittany: Instagram: www.instagram.com/livelovelifewitbrit Facebook: Brittany Saunders Instagram: www.instagram.com/britsblessedbakedgoods Business Email: britsblessedbakedgoods@gmail.com If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to: -Follow the podcast-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    1h 12m

  6. May 5

    Ep. 137 - Let's Talk About It: CPS, Meds, and the Truth Behind Closed Doors with R.S. Cole

    In this powerful and deeply raw episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with R.S. Cole, a 40-year-old mother of four from Houston, whose journey through autism parenting has been anything but ordinary. After her youngest son, J, was diagnosed with autism at just 2 years old, R.S. quickly realized the harsh reality many families face — a system that often falls short. Instead of accepting it, she chose to become the change. Driven by love and necessity, she became a Behavioral Therapist, dedicating her life to supporting families who, like her, were navigating a lack of resources and support. R.S. speaks with honesty and courage about the full spectrum of autism parenting — the structured, “good” days… and the incredibly difficult ones marked by defiance, destruction, medication side effects, and emotional exhaustion. Even now, as her son is 14, the fight for appropriate care and support continues. Beyond her lived experience, R.S. has transformed her pain into purpose. As a Holistic Practitioner with multiple certifications, she is the founder of A Beautiful Mind — a nonprofit and private community created to be a beacon of hope for families navigating life after a neurodiversity diagnosis. Her impact doesn't stop there. R.S. is also: `-Author of 14 books -Creator of a transformative course blending Behavioral Therapy, Metaphysics, and Energetic Healing -Currently in Clinical Admission for a renowned ABA therapy organization, using her voice and presence to push for meaningful change In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 00:40 Episode Topic CPS Trauma 02:25 Meet RS Cole 04:10 Dog Talk 05:54 Early Regression Signs 07:11 Therapy Daycare Wake Up 08:36 Home Support Breakthrough 11:47 Diagnosis Delays System Gaps 14:29 School Moves Behavior Escalation 21:24 Day Treatment COVID Homeschool 23:15 Medication Struggles Bestie Support 28:08 School Pressure Door Visit 31:05 CPS Well Check Shock 33:00 False Report Debunked 34:30 School Blocks Withdrawal 35:08 Truancy Threats Escalate 36:21 IEP Showdown With Backup 39:29 Homeschool Reset and SSDI Tip 41:03 ABA Aging Out and Texas Move 42:24 Family Rally and Community Support 45:19 Building NeuroSpirits Mission 48:49 Protocols and Holistic Tools 52:10 Caregiver Grief and Regulation 56:45 Know Your Rights Advice 01:00:26 Badass Wrap and Callouts Connect with R.S. Cole: Instagram: www.instagram.com/holisticministries Website: www.holisticministries.org If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to: -Follow the podcast -Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    1h 2m

  7. Apr 28

    Ep. 136 - Three Diagnoses, One Mother: How I Hold it All with Stephanie

    In this powerful episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with Stephanie Williams, engaging in conversation that dives into the reality of parenting multiple children with autism. Stephanie Williams is a 38-Year-Old social work professional, entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Fostering ConNeEXTions Inc. Stephanie is a single mom raising three sons, ages 15, 13, and 11-all on the autism spectrum. Her journey is one of resilience, advocacy, and purpose. She shares how her oldest son experienced early regression, leading her to fight for answers, diagnosis, and services. Her middle son's early aggression and his transformation into academic success. and her youngest son's later diagnosis and use of 504 accommodations. With limited support, Stephanie had to teach herself how to navigate systems-including learning to drive just to access specialists. Stephanie speaks candidly about faith, alignment, and resilience-and how she turned pain into purpose through her nonprofit and entrepreneurial platforms. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Badass Moms Welcome 01:03 Parenting Multiple Autistic Kids 02:01 Meet Stephanie Williams 04:45 JJ Early Signs and Diagnosis 09:14 Pushing For Answers and Services 11:12 Learning To Drive For Care 13:59 Trauma Safety and Support 17:57 Advocacy as a Legacy 19:18 Raj Teen Years and Growth 22:53 Meltdowns Elopement and Finding Help 29:25 School IEP Battles and Wins 32:19 Introducing the Youngest 32:27 Texas Move Miracle 34:32 Youngest Diagnosis Talk 36:59 504 Plan Breakthrough 39:47 Honor Roll Advocacy 43:44 Writing Autism Story 46:56 Pain to Purpose 49:52 Fostering ConNEXTions Mission 53:06 Alignment Over Balance 54:32 Find Her Online 57:29 Merch with a Message 59:30 Advice for Moms 01:02:28 Audacity Mic Drop 01:03:19 Final Wrap and Guest Call Connect with Stephanie: Be sure to follow and stay connected. Instagram: www.instagram.com/stephaniespeakspurpose Instagram: www.instagram.com/fosteringconnextions Tik Tok: Steph.Speaks Substack: stephaniespeakspurpose.substack.com Virtual Support Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GT1e8H3GSVD31GpfdPt7kL?mode=gi_t Make sure to check out her Merch: www.destinedtoconquer.com If this episode resonated with you, don't forget to: -Follow the podcast -Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform -Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe -Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    1h 5m
  8. Ep. 135 - When My Body Broke Down - But Motherhood Didn't Pause with Evonne

    Apr 21

    Ep. 135 - When My Body Broke Down - But Motherhood Didn't Pause with Evonne

    Host Rashidah sits down with Evonne Rooks, an autism mom from Richmond, Virginia, who shares her son AJ’s autism diagnosis in January 2023 following speech regression after COVID, her initial shock, and how ABA therapy helped her move forward. Six months later, Evonne sought ER care for what she thought was a severe migraine; imaging revealed major brain swelling and an MRI confirmed a massive left cerebellum stroke that had occurred two days earlier and covered about 75% of the region, nearly costing her life. She describes hospitalization, ongoing therapies, stress, the need to advocate for herself, building community support, and encouraging moms to decompress, spread responsibilities out, and take symptoms seriously.In this episode, we discuss:00:00 Badass Moms Welcome00:54 When Your Body Breaks01:55 Meet Evonne Rooks03:57 AJ Diagnosis Journey07:51 Therapy and Survival Mode10:26 Headache Warning Signs14:06 ER Scan and Transfer15:58 Massive Stroke Reality19:53 Recovery No Breaks23:52 Work, Therapy and Limits28:51 Stress Lessons and Healing31:24 Living Not Surviving31:46 Mental Therapy and Trauma32:36 Time Critical Stroke Care34:21 Headaches and Hospital Visits36:30 Autism Stress and Support37:33 Building Mom Community41:57 Self Care and Decompression47:17 Single Mom Resource Tips50:08 Finding Yvonne Online51:08 AJ Confidence and Joy55:56 Advocating in Healthcare01:00:26 Final TakeawaysConnect with Evonne:Be sure to follow Evonne and stay connected.Instagram: www.instagram.com/xo_vonneFacebook: Evonne RooksTikTok: itsvonnieeeIf this episode resonated with you, don't forget to:-Follow the podcast-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform-Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe-Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear thisInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

    1h 2m
See All (143)

5
out of 5
37 Ratings

About

"Autism for Badass Moms" is your guide to becoming that badass, mentally and emotionally strong mother you know you can be. Each week we shed light on the emotional journey through heartfelt conversations with autism moms, we uncover the raw, authentic experiences that shape your life. In each episode, we discuss everything from finding balance in the chaos, regulating your nervous system, and setting healthy boundaries. The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you seen or heard from the podcast.

Information

  • Creator
    Rashidah Cartwright
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    143
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Rashidah Cartwright
  • Show Website
    Autism for Badass Moms

You Might Also Like