Neurodiversally Speaking

Brittany Clark (SLP) & Shawna Fleming (BCBA)

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Join Brittany (SLP) & Shawna (BCBA) as they dive into the world of neurodiversity. Each episode, they discuss insights, tips, and collaboration strategies for both parents & professionals alike, through the lens of their real-life experiences as mothers & clinicians.

6D AGO

Inclusivity At Scale: w/ Meg Raby of KultureCity

Time for a guest we're so excited about. In this episode, we'll be sitting down with Meg Raby of Kulture City to discuss all things inclusivity! Meg Raby is an autistic female, pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) and neurodivergent advocate, writer of the children's book series "My Brother Otto", and a regular contributor to "Scary Mommy". She writes about life, love, family dynamics and hustling for an inclusive world for other neurodivergent children and adults while working full-time for global leading nonprofit, KultureCity, alongside an unstoppable, diverse team of like-minded individuals. KultureCity is all about making sure that every individual, no matter their sensory needs, feels like they belong, and Meg is leading the charge with her work there. Throughout our conversation, we discuss ground-breaking initiatives at KultureCity, Meg’s background and work as an author, and much more! Meg's insights aren't just heartwarming but also packed with practical tips for parents and communities. So, if you’re looking to shift from just awareness to real inclusion & acceptance, grab a comfy seat and tune in, because this chat is gonna spark some serious joy! Timestamps: (01:36) - Welcome & Life Updates (02:16) - Today's Topic (05:21) - Introduction To Meg (06:43) - Meet Meg (17:41) - The Mission of KultureCity (27:38) - Setting The Table Of Hospitality (36:03) - KultureCity App w/ Koji (43:45) - KultureCity's Newest Exciting Project (56:44) - Understanding Inclusion and Awareness (01:08:30) - Barriers to Inclusion Mentioned In This Episode: Meg's Socials: IG - @author.meg.raby - https://www.instagram.com/author.meg.raby/FB - Author Meg Raby - https://www.facebook.com/meg.raby.5LinkedIn - Meg Raby Klinghoffer - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-raby-klinghoffer-934a89269/ KultureCity Socials: IG - @kulturecity - https://www.instagram.com/kulturecity/FB - @kulturecity - https://www.facebook.com/kulturecity Meg’s children’s books: My Brother Otto https://amzn.to/47Pzykt My Brother Otto and the Birthday Party https://amzn.to/49aKYSp Meg shared about her ASD diagnosis and the link with Ehlers-Danlos, for more information see: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/ a...

1h 15m
12/15/2025

"Bad" Behaviour: What Are Kids Really Telling Us?

For our next episode, we get into the nitty-gritty of so-called “bad” behaviour in neurodiverse kids, emphasizing that there are no bad kids—just unmet needs. We'll break down how to identify and tackle these behaviours both at home and in clinical settings, offering practical tips for parents and professionals alike. With a mix of personal anecdotes and clinical insights, we'll highlight the importance of understanding the underlying reasons behind a child's actions rather than simply labelling them as “bad.” Whether it's figuring out how to manage hitting between siblings or navigating the complexities of communication, we've got you covered with strategies that promote empathy and effective intervention. So grab your headphones and get ready to learn how to turn those challenging moments into opportunities for growth! Timestamps: (01:10) - Welcome (06:50) - Unmet Needs Behind Actions (19:53) - Friman: No Such Thing As A "Bad" Boy (33:38) - The Importance of Skill Building and Reinforcement (46:19) - Balancing Feedback for Neurodiverse Children (52:00) - Tips When Dealing With "Bad" Behaviour (01:03:51) - Creating Predictability for Children Mentioned In This Episode: Articles: Chan, C. Y. Z., Williams, K., May, T., Wan, W. H., & Brignell, A. (2023). Is language ability associated with behaviours of concern in autism? A systematic review. Autism Research, 16(2), 250–270Friman, P. C. (2021). There is no such thing as a bad boy: The Circumstances View of problem behavior. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 54(2), 703–715 Blogs: Fostering Positive Behaviour in Children with a "Caught Ya Being Good” Jar **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info: Follow us: InstagramFacebookXYouTubeTikTok Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

1h 12m
12/01/2025

Communication: More Than Just Words!

Today, we're talking all about communication! Get ready to dive into what really counts as communication, especially for our neurodiverse kiddos. In this episode, we'll share our experiences as both clinicians and mothers, breaking down the myth that if a child isn’t talking, they aren't communicating. From pointing and tantrums to those adorable first sounds, we'll explore how every little expression matters and how we can support our little ones in their unique communication journeys. Plus, we'll sprinkle in some personal stories that make it all feel relatable and real. So settle in, and let's prepare to unpack the beautiful messiness of communication together! Timestamps: (01:32) - Welcome (04:30) - Introduction To Early Communication (09:05) - One Of The Biggest Myths (14:10) - Function & Form (21:25) - Milestones In Communication (35:24) - Communication In The SLP/BA Fields (45:43) - The Importance of Connection in Communication (50:43) - Myth Busted: "All Behaviour Is Communication" Articles Mentioned In This Episode: Greer, R. D. (2005). The evolution of verbal behavior in children. Behavioral Development Bulletin, 1(1), 31–47Conceição, D. B., Greer, R. D., & Moschella, J. L. (2022). A general outline of the verbal behavior developmental theory. Revista Brasileira de Terapia Comportamental e Cognitiva, 24, 1–39 Resources For Parents: LookSeeM-CHAT **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info: Follow us: InstagramFacebookXYouTubeTikTok Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

59 min
11/17/2025

The Power Of Lived Experience: w/ Autism Canada

Join us as we chat with Jamie McCleary, the Executive Director of Autism Canada. Throughout this episode, she shares insights on her personal journey as both an autistic professional and a mom to a neurodiverse family while also shedding light on the amazing resources offered by Autism Canada for families & autistic individuals across Canada. She kicks things off by diving into the challenges of navigating corporate environments while being true to herself. We chat about masking, how it impacts daily life, early/late diagnoses, and the resources Autism Canada offers to support individuals and families across Canada. Jamie’s insights are authentic & valuable, especially for anyone trying to figure out the complexities of autism—whether you’re a parent, a professional, or just someone curious about the experience. So, grab a comfy seat and get ready for a heartwarming and eye-opening conversation with Jamie McCleary. This conversation reminds us that representation isn’t optional — it’s essential. Timestamps: (01:28) - Welcome (02:15) - Understanding Masking in Neurodiversity & Autism (15:24) - Late Diagnoses (22:56) - Navigating Parenting with Neurodivergent Children (36:01) - Autism Canada Resources for Families (44:56) - Community Assistance Program (59:10) - Living In a World Not Designed For The Neurodiverse Autism Canada Resources Mentioned In This Episode: Literacy programNational Support Line for the Autistic and Neurodivergent CommunityAutism JunctionFunding (by province)Community Assistance Program (CAP)Publications **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info: Follow us: InstagramFacebookXYouTubeTikTok Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the show? Get in touch with us at hello@neurodiversallyspeaking.com

1h 2m
11/03/2025

Play Is The Point

Today, we're jumping into the world of play and its crucial role in helping both neurodiverse and neurotypical kids learn & thrive. We'll kick off by emphasizing that play isn’t just a fun pastime; it’s a powerful tool for learning, behaviour development, emotional regulation and communication. Throughout our chat, you’ll hear some real talk about the difference between child-led and adult-directed play, and why following a kiddo's lead can unlock their potential in ways structured activities just can’t. Using our experiences as mothers and clinicians, we'll share practical tips and strategies that make playtime a learning opportunity, packed with joy and connection. By the end of this episode, you'll feel empowered to create playful learning opportunities that will make a lasting impact on your children’s development. So, grab your favorite toy, and let’s get into how we can turn play into a bridge for communication! Timestamps: (01:25) - Welcome (01:59) - Episode Learning Objectives (05:05) - Have Fun & Be Silly (06:09) - "Play is anything that sparks joy" (18:30) - Identifying Joyful Moments (26:30) - Understanding Adult Directed vs Child Led Play (36:57) - Understanding Social Reciprocity in Communication (44:20) - Understanding Verbal Behaviour Development Theory (50:34) - The Importance of Context in Learning (59:33) - Special Guests! Articles Mentioned In This Episode: Tamara Kasper (SLP + BCBA)Akhbari Ziegler, S., & Hadders-Algra, M. (2020). "Coaching approaches in early intervention and paediatric rehabilitation." Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14493.Elbeltagi, R., Al-Beltagi, M., Saeed, N. K., & Alhawamdeh, R. (2023). "Play therapy in children with autism: Its role, implications, and limitations." World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, 12(1), 1-22. DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i1.1.Greer, R. Douglas, Jessica Dudek, and Hung Chang. "Observation, Language Learning, and Development: The Verbal Behavior Development Theory." The Psychological Record (2024). DOI: 10.1007/s40732-024-00585-1. **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info: Follow us: InstagramFacebookXYouTubeTikTok Contact: Have a question or a topic that you'd love to hear on the...

1 hr
10/20/2025

Identifying Early Signs of Autism

Time for a super important topic: Spotting those early signs of autism in kiddos! If you've been feeling something's a bit different with your little one or maybe a friend or teacher has raised some questions, you're definitely not alone and this is the episode for you! We'll share our insights as clinicians in the field, giving you the lowdown on what to watch for, how to approach it, and how to trust your gut without jumping to conclusions. Plus, we'll provide you with practical tips and resources to help navigate this journey together. So, whether you're a parent or a professional, tune in for some great advice on recognizing those early signs and fostering connection and communication with your child. Timestamps: (01:25) - Welcome & Introduction (13:05) - Understanding Autism: Communication and Interaction (21:35) - Understanding Sensory Differences in Children (31:28) - Looking At Earliest Months Of Life (33:36) - Understanding Parental Gut Feelings (35:05) - Where To Start & First Steps To Take (37:00) - Things to Try At Home (39:34) - Visual Support Strategies (40:39) - Setting Up Predictable Routines (41:25) - Our Closing Message Mentioned In This Episode: Kennedy Krieger Institute, Early Signs of Autism Video Articles: Gale, C. M., Eikeseth, S., & Klintwall, L. (2019)1. Children with autism show atypical preference for non-social stimuli2. [Journal title, volume, issue, and page/article numbers not explicitly provided in source excerpts]. Okoye, C., Obialo-Ibeawuchi, C. M., Obajeun, O. A., Sarwar, S., Tawfik, C., Waleed, M. S., Wasim, A. U., Mohamoud, I., Afolayan, A. Y., & Mbaezue, R. N. (2023). Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder: A review and analysis of the risks and benefits. Cureus, 15(8), e43226.Salgado-Cacho, J. M., Moreno-Jiménez, M. d. P., & de Diego-Otero, Y. (2021). Detection of early warning signs in autism spectrum disorders: A systematic review. Children, 8(2), 164.Shultz, S., Klin, A., & Jones, W. (2018)45. Neonatal transitions in social behavior and their implications for autism67. Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 22(5)45, 451–46945.Supekar, K., Kochalka, J., Schaer, M., Wakeman, H., Qin, S., Padmanabhan, A., & Menon, V. (2018)1011. Deficits in mesolimbic reward pathway underlie social interaction impairments in children with autism12. Brain11. [Volume, issue, page numbers, and DOI not explicitly provided in source excerpts].Volkmar, F. R., & van der Wyk, B. (2017)13. Understanding the social nature of autism: From clinical manifestations to brain mechanisms13. In J. B. Leaf (Ed.)13, Handbook of Social Skills and Autism Spectrum Disorder13 (pp. 11–25)13. Springer International Publishing AG13. **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach...

43 min
10/06/2025

From Awareness To Acceptance: w/ Autism Out Loud

Join us as we sit down with the incredible Mercedes Palmero, the founder behind Autism Out Loud. As a registered nurse and dedicated mom to her autistic daughter, Mercedes shares her inspiring journey toward creating a platform that champions inclusivity & awareness for neurodiverse individuals across the globe. We dive deep into her personal experiences—navigating the joys and challenges of parenting an autistic child, the common misconceptions about autism, and the crucial importance of early diagnosis and acceptance. With a sprinkle of humor and a whole lot of heart, Mercedes emphasizes how vital it is for society to shift its perspective on autism from one of stigma to one of understanding and celebration. So, grab your headphones and get ready for a conversation that’s not just enlightening but also a reminder of the beauty in neurodiversity! Timestamps: (01:34) - Welcome (11:10) - Autism: The Unique Experience of Autistic Girls (18:18) - Autism Diagnosis and Acceptance (21:55) - Navigating Early Signs of Autism (29:45) - Challenges of Autism (39:36) - Empowering Perspectives on Autism and Motherhood (43:48) - Unique Experiences in Parenting Mentioned In This Episode: Articles: What is ARFID Emily Oster: Is Tylenol Safe in Pregnancy? Addressing links to autism and ADHD Book Recommendations For Kids: Different, A Great Thing to Be (Heather Avis)Wonderfully Wired (Stacey Lucas-Toumbourou)A Day With No Words (Tiffany Hammond)I'm Still Me (Mary Raso)All My Stripes (Shaina Rudolph)My Brother Otto (Meg Raby)Jo's Special Gifts (Mariam Shapera) Book Recommendations For Adults: Poems of the Neurodivergent Experience (Jaclyn Pensiero)The Reason I Jump (Naoki Higashida)Sincerely Your Autistic Child (Edited by Emily Paige Ballou)Off the Spectrum (Gina Rippon) Autistic Voices To Follow On Socials: @fidgets.and.fries@audhd_academic@_soundoftheforest_@patrick.casale@morgaanfoley@audhd.fnd_andme@thejumpyautist@theautizztichabibbaddie@autistic_stitch@nigh.functioning.autism@sunitatheiss@blackspectrumscholar @autism.conmigo@honestlyiwasspeechless@autistic.mykie@savvylifeskills@theneurodiversitymom@aut2ask Follow Autism Out Loud: Instagram: @autismoutloudFacebook: Autism Out Loud **** Visit The Sensory Supply for the best in sensory products to soothe, stimulate, and inspire. Learn about our clinic Elemenoe where we work to reach milestones together through speech, language, behaviour & learning. Visit neurodiversallyspeaking.com for all podcast & show info: Follow us: a...

47 min
09/22/2025

Smooth Sailing: Navigating Transitions with Confidence

Transitioning from one task to another can feel like climbing Mount Everest for our young kiddos, whether neurodiverse or neurotypical. In this episode, we'll dive into the core of why these transitions can be such a tough nut to crack and share some real-life strategies that both parents and professionals can use to smooth out those bumps along the road. Transitioning isn't just about changing gears; it's a whole mental gymnastics routine! In this episode, we'll discuss the various systems at play, from executive functioning to emotional regulation, highlighting that asking kids to shift their focus is a big ask, especially when they’re leaving something they love, like their favorite toy or an exciting game. We'll talk about how both parents and professionals can step in to ease these transitions with real-life strategies that are both practical and, dare we say, fun! We'll also sprinkle in some personal anecdotes and a few laughs, because hey, we’re all in this together, right? So, if you're looking to make those tricky transitions a little easier for your kiddos, you’re in the right place because this episode is all about success, not stress. Timestamps: (01:24) - Welcome (03:43) - Understanding Why Transitions Can Be So Hard (06:54) - Rich vs. Lean Conditions (13:35) - It's Not That They're Stubborn or "Bad" (23:34) - "Three Term Contingency" (28:00) - Our Go-To Transition Strategies (35:25) - Tip: Shifting The Focus To What's Next (41:05) - Tip: Get In Early With Reinforcement (46:43) - Tailoring Strategies To Your Child (47:41) - Tip: Staying Connected & Calm (51:33) - Practicing Strategies In Different Contexts (55:22) - Get Into Your Kiddos Mindset Mentioned In This Episode: Our Transition Toolkit (Summer Edition)Banda, D. R., & Grimmett, E. (2008). Enhancing social and transition behaviors of persons with autism through activity schedules: A review. Education and Training in Developmental Disabilities, 43(3), 324–33312.Jessel, J., Hanley, G. P., & Ghaemmaghami, M. (2016). A translational evaluation of transitions. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 49(2), 359–37656.Lequia, J., Wilkerson, K. L., Kim, S., & Lyons, G. L. (2014). Improving transition behaviors in students with autism spectrum disorders: A comprehensive evaluation of interventions in educational settings. Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions, 1, 1–1378.Sevin, J. A., Rieske, R. D., & Matson, J. L. (2015). A review of behavioral strategies and support considerations for assisting persons with difficulties transitioning from activity to activity. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2, 329–342910.Tullis, C. A., Cannella-Malone, H. I., & Payne, D. O. (2014). Literature review of interventions for between-task transitioning for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism spectrum disorders. Review Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2,...

59 min

3.5

out of 5

2 Ratings

Join Brittany (SLP) & Shawna (BCBA) as they dive into the world of neurodiversity. Each episode, they discuss insights, tips, and collaboration strategies for both parents & professionals alike, through the lens of their real-life experiences as mothers & clinicians.

Creator

Brittany Clark (SLP) & Shawna Fleming (BCBA)
Years Active

2K
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13
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Explicit
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Neurodiversally Speaking