251. Finding Your People: Why They Matter More Than Ever

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, host Shannon Urquiola wraps up 2025 with a powerful conversation about what it really means to find your people when you’re raising an autistic child.

Inspired by a request from a NYAAM member, Shannon shares real stories from her own journey with Jordan and Maddie and talks about why surface-level friendships aren’t enough in this life. This episode dives into vulnerability, honesty, and the willingness it takes to be seen — and why trying to do it all alone often leads to isolation and burnout.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why “I’m fine” friendships don’t hold up in autism parenting

• How hiding behind a façade keeps you lonely, even when you’re surrounded by people

• What it looks like to step out of your comfort zone and ask for help

• How sharing your story helps other moms feel less alone — and helps you find your people

• Why this journey was never meant to be carried alone

This is the final episode of 2025. Shannon will be back every Thursday in 2026, starting with episode 252 on January 8th.

If you’ve ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or alone in this journey, this episode will remind you that your people are out there — and you don’t have to stop searching.

📺 Now available on video too! Watch on this podcast page or Spotify, or listen as always—whichever way you tune in, we’re just glad you’re here.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with us! Together, we are stronger.

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Additional Resources:

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