Mighty Moms Podcast

Mighty Moms

Mighty Moms Podcast was founded by Dedra Gallegos & Brina Dutton, both moms to boys on the autism spectrum. They share their neurodivergent journeys: struggles and victories, with listeners around the world. 

  1. Aug 24

    Mighty Moms Podcast S3E3 with Kathy "Kat" Riojas

    Send us Fan Mail On season three, episode two of the Mighty Moms podcast, hosts interview Kat Riojas, an autism advocate, licensed professional counselor, former special education teacher, fitness lover, and mom to nine-year-old Jacob, a non-speaking autistic child. Kat shares how she and her husband, based in the Dallas area, recognized missed milestones compared to their older neurotypical children, advocated despite reassurance from their pediatrician, and obtained an early autism diagnosis at about 15 months to begin intervention. The conversation explores grief and the duality of feeling proud of others’ milestones while mourning what may be different, setting boundaries around events, and how accommodations help families feel included. Kat discusses sibling dynamics, including her 13-year-old’s anxiety and protectiveness, and how fitness became a priority to stay strong for caregiving. She emphasizes finding connection with other autism moms, including through social media, and respecting that families choose different supports such as ABA. 00:00 Meet Kat Riojas 00:34 Kat’s Family Background 01:15 Early Signs and Diagnosis 04:44 Grief and Dual Emotions 07:00 Surrender Versus Pushing Forward 08:54 Boundaries and Social Events 13:22 Family Accommodations That Help 15:55 Home Life Adjustments 17:40 Sibling Dynamics and Anxiety 24:18 Managing Public Moments 25:00 Fitness After Diagnosis 25:55 Safety Strength Motivation 27:32 Golf Cart Wake Up Call 29:09 ABA Therapy Life Shift 33:10 Nutrition Gut Healing 35:19 Caregiver Control Mindset 36:27 Find Your Autism Moms 40:09 Many Paths in Autism 42:14 Mighty Mom Definition 43:55 Screams Stims and Church 46:50 Closing Thanks and Links Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

  2. Aug 18

    Mighty Moms Podcast S3E2 with Mighty Mom Shannon Lowe Derrick

    Send us Fan Mail Mighty Moms S3E2: Shannon Lowe (T4Autism) on Profound Autism, Church Inclusion, and Showing Up Brina and Dee Dee of the Mighty Moms podcast (moms to Owen and Tad, both on the autism spectrum) welcome autism influencer and T4Autism.org founder Shannon Lowe, mom to 21-year-old Thomas “Cubby,” who was diagnosed at age two and later identified as having profound autism. Shannon shares the shock of early exclusion that began in church, the grief and isolation many new moms feel after diagnosis, and the need for safe, specialized spaces while also educating willing volunteers. The conversation emphasizes community, veteran-mom mentorship, and faith as essential to navigating challenges that can strain marriage, finances, and mental health. Brina also describes starting the Owen Foundation camps and the Owen Academy, lessons learned about reducing overstimulation, and the work behind nonprofits. Shannon closes by urging moms to trust God, keep showing up, and defines a mighty mom as a lion with a war cry. 00:00 Meet Mighty Moms 00:30 Introducing Shannon Lowe 01:30 Cubby’s Diagnosis Story 03:39 Early Signs at Church 04:19 Building Autism-Friendly Ministry 09:56 When Friends Fall Back 12:16 Advice for New Moms 15:37 Coffee Break Community 18:51 Faith and Mental Health Fight 21:29 Anger and Faith 22:21 Single Mom Encouragement 23:37 Owen Foundation Origin 25:33 Autism Sports Camps 28:54 Nonprofit Reality Check 30:32 T4 Autism Mission 32:42 Career Shift for Autism 34:53 Community and Platforms 39:39 Trust God and Show Up 41:22 Mighty Mom Definition 43:35 Signing Off and Sponsors Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

  3. Aug 13

    Mighty Moms Podcast S3E1 with Mighty Mom Danielle Latham

    Send us Fan Mail In season three, episode one of the Mighty Moms Podcast, hosts Brina and Dee Dee—moms to sons Owen and Tad on the autism spectrum—welcome autism community influencer Danielle Latham to discuss her journey raising her son Van. Danielle shares noticing early developmental differences, Van’s autism diagnosis at about two and a half at Kennedy Krieger in Maryland, and how early intervention led to speech, occupational therapy, in-home Child Find services, and ABA support, including intensive work on potty training and ongoing bathroom challenges. The conversation explores grief around missed milestones, how autism “levels” can be confusing, and why focusing on individual needs can be more helpful. Danielle describes Van beginning to talk around age seven, faith and church experiences, self-care, and the importance of researching resources, applying for grants and waivers early, and getting on long waitlists.  00:00 Meet Mighty Moms 00:30 Introducing Danielle and Van 01:55 Early Signs and Diagnosis 06:09 Diagnosis Process Then vs Now 08:44 Autism Levels Debate 15:12 Therapies and Child Find 16:21 Potty Training Breakthroughs 17:54 Bathroom Independence Tips 20:29 Grief and Milestones 23:57 Finding Joy and Hope 26:04 Late Talking Breakthrough 27:58 Repetitive Interests and Faith 28:52 Church and Emotional Attainment 30:41 Self Care and Support Systems 34:18 Respite and Community Resources 35:16 No Delay in Diagnosis 37:12 Research and Advocacy Mindset 40:36 What Mighty Mom Means 43:38 Season Wrap and Sponsor Messages Thank you for watching Mighty Moms Podcast! If this episode touched your heart, be sure to like, subscribe, and share so we can continue reaching and encouraging more Mighty Moms and families. Until next time, remember: you are not alone, you are stronger than you know, and you are a Mighty Mom! Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

  4. 12/23/2025

    Episode #35: Mighty Moms Podcast-Tips to help Autism Families Navigate the Christmas Festivities

    Send us Fan Mail In Episode 35 of the Mighty Moms Podcast, Brina and DeeDee share tips on how they navigate the holiday season as moms of children on the autism spectrum. They provide honest insights and practical tips for managing the festive season, including preparing for changes, managing mealtime, supporting communication, and planning for sensory needs. The episode also highlights the importance of patience, positive reinforcement, and celebrating small achievements. Tune in for an engaging discussion filled with relatable anecdotes, heartwarming stories, and helpful advice for making the holidays joyful and stress-free for your family.  00:00 Introduction to Mighty Moms 00:38 Holiday Season Vibes 02:27 Gift Giving Traditions 05:01 Christmas Music and Movies 13:51 Holiday Tips for Autism Moms 28:10 Increasing Table Time for Kids 28:24 Supporting Communication Methods 28:50 Using PECS and Devices 29:15 Encouraging Device Use and Social Phrases 31:26 Planning for Breaks and Sensory Needs 32:43 Using Noise-Canceling Headphones 34:01 Comfort Items and Predictable Activities 37:39 Encouraging Positive Behavior 38:51 Celebrating Small Wins 40:32 Managing Mealtime and Communication 42:35 Holiday Perfectionism is a Myth 46:59 Favorite Toys and Joy 50:59 Traveling and Comfort 51:41 Sensory-Friendly Santa Visits 54:55 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts This podcast has been brought to you by our sponsor, The Owen Academy! Be sure to follow The Owen Academy on all your socials to help express our gratitude for their support for Mighty Moms Podcast!   Would you like to sponsor a podcast? Message us at mightymomspodcast@gmail.com to sponsor a podcast and help us share Autism Awareness and hope to families all over the world!  Links*** (As always we are not Doctors, just recommending supplements that have worked for our children.  Please do your research and speak to your medical professional before taking any supplement or medications.) Olly’s Chillax Gummies Link https://amzn.to/4qmN2fc Calm Forte Link https://amzn.to/4jeqJWS As referenced in the Podcast we encourage you to Follow "For the Love of Gabe" on FACEBOOK AND IG! Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

  5. 03/31/2025

    Episode #32 - Autism Conference & Stimming Acceptance

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Mighty Moms Podcast, hosts Brina and DeeDee share insights into the upcoming autism conference, discussing the variety of guest speakers and vendors who will attend. They emphasize the importance of early registration, the significance of allowing children on the autism spectrum to stim, and provide personal anecdotes about their parenting journeys. The conversation also touches on support for long-term care facilities, Hugs Cafe, and the need for community events that foster inclusivity. The hosts share their excitement about providing a platform for other moms through their podcast, and discuss their upcoming 5K event. 🚨 We Need YOUR Help: Gather Signatures for the Owen Alert Petition! 🚨 The Owen Alert could save lives by ensuring a faster response when a child with autism or other disabilities elopes. Every second counts, and this system would allow immediate activation, notifying first responders and the community to begin searching right away. Getting signatures is SO easy! Just have your friends, coworkers, and family scan the QR code or text the petition link to encourage them to sign. This isn’t just for one area—it’s for ALL of the USA! We need volunteers to help spread the word! If you can commit to gathering signatures, let me know your shirt size, and I’ll get one ordered for you! 📢 Join the movement and help make the Owen Alert a reality!   🔗https://www.change.org/p/establish-the-owen-alert-act-for-rapid-response-in-autism-related-elopements Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

  6. 03/18/2025

    Episode #31-Mighty Moms Podcast: Real Talk on Autism and Vaccines

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Mighty Moms Podcast, hosts Brina and Dee Dee share their candid experiences as mothers raising children on the autism spectrum. The duo introduces their podcast, available on multiple platforms like YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify, and discusses various aspects of their lives, including the recent time change and its effects on their children's routines. They dive into topics such as new medications for improving communication skills, the importance of parasite cleanses, and their personal experiences with vaccine injuries. The episode also highlights their upcoming Mighty Moms Autism Conference, which will feature various speakers and a range of activities and resources for parents. They are also working on getting signatures for the Owen Alert Act, which aims to improve response times when children with autism go missing. The conversation concludes with plans for future podcast guests and a reminder of their community initiatives. 🚨 We Need YOUR Help: Gather Signatures for the Owen Alert Petition! 🚨 The Owen Alert could save lives by ensuring a faster response when a child with autism or other disabilities elopes. Every second counts, and this system would allow immediate activation, notifying first responders and the community to begin searching right away. Getting signatures is SO easy! Just have your friends, coworkers, and family scan the QR code or text the petition link to encourage them to sign. This isn’t just for one area—it’s for ALL of the USA! We need volunteers to help spread the word! If you can commit to gathering signatures, let me know your shirt size, and I’ll get one ordered for you! 📢 Join the movement and help make the Owen Alert a reality!   🔗 https://www.change.org/p/establish-the-owen-alert-act-for-rapid-response-in-autism-related-elopements Beneve Link--- Power of 3  🔗https://MightyMoms.beneve.com Get your Tickets today for the Mighty Moms 2nd Annual Autism Conference 🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mighty-moms-autism-conference-2025-tickets-1219764481399?aff=ebdsshcopyurl&utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term= TrueMedx Orders Here!  🔗https://truemedx.com/?ref=mightymoms Truly Free Website - 40% for new customer / 25% returning customer  🔗 https://click.trulyfreehome.com/aff_c?offer_id=238&aff_id=5317 Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms! Support the show Follow us on YouTube, Facebook, & Instagram @MIGHTYMOMSPODCAST and on TikTok @MIGHTYMOMSBEYONDTHEPOD ------ LIKE, SHARE, & Support our Mission to create a Worldwide Cult of Autism Moms!

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Mighty Moms Podcast was founded by Dedra Gallegos & Brina Dutton, both moms to boys on the autism spectrum. They share their neurodivergent journeys: struggles and victories, with listeners around the world.