Ep. 106 - Two Generations, One Diagnosis with Marlene

In this episode, Rashidah speaks with Marlene Soto-Riera, disability advocate, author, and founder of Helping Swans Co. Marlene shares her journey as a mother and grandmother of children with autism, her mission to build inclusive communities, and how she made history by organizing Newton County, Georgia’s first-ever Autism Awareness and Inclusion Event. What we discuss: 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:57 AJ's Early Challenges and Advocacy 04:17 Navigating the Unknown: Emotional Journey 08:54 The Diagnosis: Coffin-Siris Syndrome 12:36 Finding Community and Support 16:01 The Role of Faith and Determination 18:43 Balancing Family Dynamics 24:33 Grandmother's Perspective on Autism Advocacy 27:24 Navigating Family Dynamics and Guilt 30:29 Understanding Guilt and Its Evolution 33:35 The Role of a Grandparent in Advocacy 38:36 Learning from Experience: A Guide for Parents 44:42 Advice for Grandparents: Being Present and Supportive 50:13 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Self-Belief If you found Marlene's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit! Connect with Marlene: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momadvocatemarlene/ Tik Tok: momadvocatemarlene FOLLOW US: Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast YouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast