What happens when autism support moves beyond four walls and into nature? In this episode of Inchstones, Sarah Kernion sits down with Dr. Dana Spett, founder of Pony Power Therapies, to explore autism, sensory regulation, equine-assisted services, and why connection, movement, and nature can create powerful opportunities for growth. Dana’s journey began as a mother searching for support for her own daughter. What started with one horse and four riders has grown into Pony Power Therapies, a community-centered organization helping children and adults with disabilities connect with horses, farming, nature, and themselves. Together, Sarah and Dana discuss autism parenting, sensory regulation, maternal intuition, nature-based learning, disability inclusion, and the importance of creating environments where autistic individuals can thrive without pressure to conform. Dana shares why traditional approaches are not always enough and how horses offer a unique opportunity for regulation, confidence, connection, and belonging. The conversation explores: * autism and sensory regulation * equine-assisted services * nature-based support for autistic children * maternal intuition and advocacy * disability inclusion and community belonging * farming, purpose, and meaningful work * autism and nervous system regulation * creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals Dana also shares how Pony Power supports families across the lifespan, from young children with autism to adults navigating life after age 21, when many formal support systems begin to disappear. This episode is for autism moms, caregivers, educators, therapists, and anyone interested in nature-based approaches to autism support, sensory regulation, disability advocacy, and helping neurodivergent individuals build meaningful lives and connections. In This Episode 00:00 – The mission behind Pony Power Therapies 01:00 – Dana’s journey as a social worker and autism mom 02:30 – Following maternal intuition instead of rushing to medication 04:00 – Why trusting your gut matters in autism parenting 05:30 – Equine-assisted services and empowering families 06:30 – How autistic children respond to horses and nature 08:00 – Sensory regulation through movement and rhythm 09:30 – Why horses provide unique nervous system support 11:00 – Nature, regulation, and the family system 13:00 – Beyond traditional talk therapy approaches 14:30 – The role of nature in mental health and autism support 16:00 – Nonverbal communication and connection beyond words 17:30 – Why leaving the house feels impossible for some families 19:00 – Supporting dysregulated autistic children without judgment 21:00 – Creating safe spaces for neurodivergent families 23:30 – The autism service cliff after age 21 25:00 – Farming, employment, and meaningful purpose for autistic adults 27:00 – Disability inclusion and reimagining community support Listen to more episodes of the Inchstones Podcast, where Sarah Kernion shares caregiver stories, autism advocacy, profound autism perspectives, neurodivergent parenting, and conversations that challenge us to build more inclusive communities. More about Dr. Dana Spett, DSW Dr. Dana Spett, DSW, an accomplished professional with a deep commitment to equine- assisted services, nature, and social work is the Founder and Executive Director of Pony Power Therapies, a nonprofit community-based center in New Jersey that connects children and adults with disabilities or life challenges to the wonders of horses, farming and nature. Dana has dedicated herself to creating an inclusive and transformative environment guided by nature. Recognizing the power of nature to promote resilience and personal growth, Dana ensures that Pony Power Therapies embodies... Chapters (00:00:00) - Inch Sentence Podcast: Dana Spett(00:00:55) - Pony Power Therapies: The Origins Story(00:05:18) - Pony Power: Autism and the Horse(00:11:46) - The Future of Social Work: Nature and Communication(00:18:37) - Autistic People on the Farm(00:20:30) - Pony Power on Autism and Farming