Mother's Guide Through Autism

Brigitte Shipman

This podcast is to inspire, support, and build community for mothers raising children with autism. Brigitte Shipman is the host and creator of this podcast and it has been inspired by her son Joseph who has been living with autism for the last 32 years. Together, Brigitte and Joseph hope to offer mothers of autistic children hope for the future. They will be sharing what they have learned in their journey as well as have expert guests on the show to give you knowledge, resources, insights, and inspiration. 

  1. 1月18日

    Emotional Regulation Starts With Us: Tools for Neurodivergent Families with Sara Hartley

    Send us a text When a child is emotionally dysregulated, it’s easy for parents to feel unsure, exhausted, or like they’re constantly reacting instead of responding. In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Sara Lewis Hartley, a healthcare leader with over 20 years of experience and the author of the Purposefully Me children’s book series, to explore what emotional regulation really means—and how parents can support it without burning themselves out. This conversation goes beyond surface-level tips. Sara shares practical, compassionate insights about creating emotional safety at home, why regulation starts with the parent, and how understanding emotions—rather than trying to control them—can change the dynamic between parent and child. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear about: - Common misconceptions parents have about “big emotions” and behavior - How parents can regulate themselves first—without guilt or perfection - How to create a foundation of trust and safety with your kids - The inspiration behind the Purposefully Me book series This episode is especially for parents who feel overwhelmed by emotions—both their child’s and their own—and are looking for a more grounded, compassionate way forward. 🎧 You’ll walk away with perspective, reassurance, and ideas you can start using right away. 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Sara Hartley and get her books: https://saralewishartley.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    47 分鐘
  2. 2025/12/29

    Nervous System Regulation for Kids: Two Powerful Approaches

    Send us a text In this compilation episode, we explore how nervous system regulation plays a foundational role in children’s focus, emotional balance, and ability to engage—especially for kids with sensory processing differences and autism. Drawing from two past conversations on the podcast, this episode highlights how overactive or underactive sensory systems can impact learning, behavior, and daily life. Rather than focusing solely on symptom management, these clips offer insight into body-based, nervous-system–informed approaches that support regulation and felt safety. You’ll hear perspectives on Craniosacral Therapy (CST) and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), including how these approaches work with the nervous system to reduce anxiety, improve engagement, and support developmental growth.  In this episode, you’ll hear: - Why nervous system regulation matters for children with sensory processing differences - How CST and SSP support regulation and felt safety in different ways - Practical insights and real-world examples from clinicians working with children Episode Chapters: 00:00 Understanding Sensory Systems in Children 02:02 The Role of Craniosacral Therapy 07:17 Real-Life Success Stories 08:34 Introduction to Polyvagal Theory 09:50 Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) 11:54 Transformative Impact of SSP Original Episodes: This Gentle Therapy Will Leave Your Kids Calm & Relaxed with Dr. Sally Fryer Dietz: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/podcast/episode-142 Soothe Your Child’s Nervous System with Safe and Sound Protocol with Kelly Beins: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/podcast/episode-139 🔗 Resources & Links Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    19 分鐘
  3. 2025/12/19

    Autism Out Loud: Motherhood, Marriage & Everyday Miracles with Carrie Cariello

    Send us a text In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte welcomes back Carrie Cariello—mother, writer, and one of the co-authors of the bestselling book Autism Out Loud, written alongside Kate Swenson and Adrian Wood. Together, these three mothers share their lived experiences of raising children with very different autism profiles. In this conversation, Carrie opens up about the emotional journey behind the book, the power of writing alongside other autism moms, and the realities of parenting across different seasons—from childhood to adulthood. This episode explores both the practical and deeply human sides of the autism journey, including long-term planning, marriage, siblings, and the everyday moments that often go unseen but matter most. 💛 In this episode, Carrie shares: - The emotional experience of writing alongside two other autism moms - The importance of disability planning and thinking about the future - Why celebrating everyday miracles matters more than milestones - Ways to thoughtfully involve siblings in the autism journey With honesty, warmth, and clarity, Carrie reminds parents that while this journey can be heavy, it is also filled with connection, love, and moments of unexpected beauty. 🎧 If you’re an autism parent who’s ever wondered what comes next—or how to stay grounded in the now—this conversation will meet you right where you are. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:53 Introducing Carrie Cariello 04:06 Carrie's Family and Writing Journey 05:53 Autism Out Loud: The Collaborative Book 07:05 Navigating Adulthood with Autism 17:15 Marriage and Family Dynamics 22:52 The Importance of Community and Comparison 29:28 Encouragement for New Autism Parents 33:05 Closing Remarks and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Learn more about Carrie Cariello and get her books: https://carriecariello.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    35 分鐘
  4. 2025/12/05

    Hope, Clarity & New Research: Navigating Autism with Dr. Theresa Lyons

    Send us a text In this episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte Shipman sits down with Dr. Theresa Lyons, Yale-trained scientist and founder of Navigating AWEtism, to bring clarity, hope, and grounded science to the conversation. Dr. Lyons explains what new research is revealing about the evolving definition of autism, how some children lose their autism diagnosis over time, and how parents can navigate the flood of information without confusion or fear. Together, Brigitte and Dr. Lyons talk about: ✨ How autism science is changing so rapidly ✨ The importance of parents staying informed with accurate and current scientific information ✨ The emotional side of parenting—grief, hope, confusion, intuition ✨ Practical steps families can take to prioritize what truly matters for their child If you’ve ever felt lost in the noise of autism information, this episode will bring relief, clarity, and direction. You are not alone—there is a path forward. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Guest Introduction 03:47 Dr. Teresa Lyons' Personal Journey 07:15 Understanding Autism and Its Evolving Definition 09:39 Navigating the Overwhelm of Autism Information 16:01 The Navigating Autism Matrix 21:07 Common Mistakes and First Steps for Parents 24:14 Balancing Life and Autism 24:26 Communicating Needs and Reducing Stress 25:08 Emotional Journey of Parenting 28:44 Understanding and Addressing Myths 33:17 The Importance of Rest and Self-Care 39:03 Finding Joy and Connection 41:56 Resources and Final Thoughts 🔗 Resources & Links 📘 Learn more about Dr. Lyons and the Navigating AWEtism Matrix: https://awetism.net/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    45 分鐘
  5. 2025/11/28

    Transforming Our Journey of Autism Through Presence and Play with Jennifer Briggs

    Send us a text What happens when you step away from “fixing” and begin meeting your autistic child exactly where they are? In this heartfelt episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, Brigitte talks with Jennifer Briggs, a mom who created a home-based Son-Rise program—called Sarah-Rise—for her daughter who has a rare genetic anomaly and autism. Jennifer opens up about the stressful early years, the emotional weight of trying so many therapies, and the turning point that led her to a completely different approach—one rooted in presence, joining, and deep connection. She shares how the Son-Rise philosophy (now known as Do Autism Differently) helped Sarah make meaningful developmental gains—and how embracing her child’s world instead of resisting it transformed their relationship. This conversation is filled with gentleness, honesty, and hope for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, doubtful, or unsure of the next step. 💛 In this episode, Jennifer shares: - How she shifted from stress and fear to connection and trust - What “joining” looks like and why it matters - How the Sarah-Rise program helped her daughter engage more deeply - The emotional challenges of guilt, grief, and self-pressure If you’re navigating your own autism journey, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to rush, force, or push. There is another way—one rooted in presence and acceptance. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 03:16 Jennifer's Journey: From Teacher to Mom  04:46 Sarah's Early Years and Diagnosis  08:28 The Turning Point: Discovering the Sunrise Program  11:01 Implementing the Sunrise Program at Home  18:32 Understanding Genetic Anomalies and Autism  31:10 The Power of Community and Asking for Help  33:52 Jennifer's Book: Watching Sarah Rise  38:45 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect  🔗 Resources & Links Jennifer's Website: https://www.watchingsarahrise.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    41 分鐘
  6. 2025/11/09

    From Meltdowns to Calm: Tools for Emotional Resilience with Lisa Candera

    Send us a text When your child is in full meltdown mode, what do you do? If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to hold it together while everything around you is falling apart—you’re not alone. In this powerful episode, Brigitte talks with Lisa Candera, solo mom to a teen with severe autism and OCD, full-time attorney, and certified life coach for autism moms. Lisa shares the hard-earned tools that helped her stop reacting out of overwhelm and start responding with calm, clarity, and compassion. She introduces her Meltdown Action Plan—a simple, step-by-step approach to staying regulated when your child isn’t. 🔑 You’ll hear about: - The concept of being the “solid object” in your child’s storm - Why your nervous system—not your child’s behavior—is the place to start - How to prepare before, stay grounded during, and recover after a meltdown - Strategies for managing guilt when you don’t respond perfectly Lisa’s free resource: the Meltdown Action Plan, available at This episode is packed with empathy, insight, and practical guidance for parents navigating intense emotional moments—and learning to show up differently. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 03:00 Lisa Candera's Story and Parenting Challenges 05:21 Navigating Parenting with ADHD 07:58 Shifting from Fixing to Managing Emotions 13:11 Implementing the Solid Object Strategy 19:31 Handling Meltdowns and Parental Guilt 28:59 Self-Compassion and Evaluation 30:01 Mantras and Intellectual Decisions 31:09 Understanding Stress and Parenting Challenges 32:21 The Importance of Support and Community 35:47 Introducing the Meltdown Action Plan 37:32 Implementing the Meltdown Action Plan 44:33 The Power of Pausing 49:52 Regulating Yourself for Your Child 52:57 Conclusion and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Lisa's Website: https://theautismmomcoach.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    55 分鐘
  7. 2025/09/28

    The Power of Micro Shifts: Simple Tools for Overwhelmed Autism Parents with Kimberly Guche

    Send us a text If you’ve ever felt like you’re holding it all together on the outside…while your insides are screaming—this episode is for you. Brigitte sits down with Kimberly Guche, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, mindset coach, and mom of four, to talk about something we rarely say out loud: parenting an autistic or highly sensitive child can feel overwhelming. The pressure. The unpredictability. The constant scanning for the next meltdown. It’s a lot. But here’s the hopeful part—your energy matters more than you think. Kimberly introduces her Five Minute Chaos to Calm Method, a gentle yet powerful practice designed to help parents reset their nervous systems, reconnect with their inner calm, and respond to their child with confidence and clarity. No fancy tools. No hour-long routines. Just five minutes that can change the tone of your whole day. ✨ In this episode, you’ll hear about: - The hidden signals your nervous system is constantly sending (and how your child picks up on them) - What it means to be emotionally congruent—and why your kids feel the difference - Grounding, breathwork, and visualization strategies for the real world - Why calming your energy can shift your whole household - Permission to not be perfect—and still be the parent your child needs This conversation is a breath of fresh air for any mom who’s been stuck in survival mode and is ready for a reset. 💛 Tune in for hope, heart, and doable tools you can start using today. Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 02:50 Kimberly's Journey and Professional Background 05:10 Challenges and Discoveries in Parenting and Therapy 07:58 The Power of Meditation and Self-Regulation 11:24 Shifts in Support for Families and Sensory Interventions 13:48 Five Minute Chaos to Calm Method 20:36 Guided Exercise for Calm and Grounding 25:08 Finding Calm and Peace 25:34 The Power of Nature 26:30 Dealing with Overwhelm 27:28 Personal Anchors and Visualization 31:17 Handling Chaotic Situations 33:55 Supporting Moms of Autistic Children 34:54 The Importance of Self-Care 39:12 Final Thoughts and Resources 🔗 Resources & Links Kimberley's Website: https://entrancinginspirations.com/ Chaos to Calm 5 minute Reset Audio: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14sOHXoXJ8vYtzTFaeZ_G4s6F8_iVonzp/view Peaceful Parenting Meditation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Y2klA61iQE-hTZBsaC4H7-PXTBmakYfo/view Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    45 分鐘
  8. 2025/09/19

    Invisible Challenges: Understanding High-Functioning Autism with Kathleen Somers

    Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of Mother’s Guide Through Autism, host Brigitte Shipman sits down with Kathleen Somers, a mother and author, to explore the complex emotional landscape of raising a child with an invisible disability. Kathleen reflects on her 24-year journey parenting a son with high-functioning autism—from initial denial to acceptance.  With honesty and humility, she shares the moments that shaped her: learning to let go of expectations, finding the courage to trust her instincts, and most of all, allowing herself to become a student of her son’s inner world. The conversation explores: - What it’s like to raise a child with a disability most people can’t see - The emotional terrain of guilt, fear, frustration, and deep love - Teaching self-advocacy in ways that empower children long-term - Embracing who your child truly is Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Welcome  01:22 Kathleen Summers' Journey and Memoir  04:20 Initial Diagnosis and Early Challenges  06:28 Navigating School and Social Dynamics  08:02 Gross Motor Skills and Sports  10:01 Understanding High-Functioning Autism  13:40 The Meaning Behind 'Barely Visible'  17:10 Lessons Learned from Parenting  20:40 Understanding and Accepting Differences  21:34 Advocating for Your Child  22:42 Teaching Self-Advocacy  23:19 Parental Reflections and Lessons  24:32 The Importance of Self-Advocacy  26:21 Advice for Autism Moms  31:06 Letting Go and Building Independence  36:32 Final Thoughts and Resources  🔗 Resources & Links Kathleen's Website: https://www.kathleensomers.com/ Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com Support the show

    39 分鐘
5
(滿分 5 顆星)
16 則評分

簡介

This podcast is to inspire, support, and build community for mothers raising children with autism. Brigitte Shipman is the host and creator of this podcast and it has been inspired by her son Joseph who has been living with autism for the last 32 years. Together, Brigitte and Joseph hope to offer mothers of autistic children hope for the future. They will be sharing what they have learned in their journey as well as have expert guests on the show to give you knowledge, resources, insights, and inspiration.