In this powerful re-release from our BEST OF SUMMER series, Shannon brings back one of the most heartfelt and relatable episodes for moms navigating a new autism diagnosis.

She explores why so many parents are scared to say the word autism out loud, the weight of the label, and the emotional experience of explaining the diagnosis to others. Through real-life scenarios and honest encouragement, Shannon reminds us that being autistic doesn’t mean being less-than — it simply means experiencing the world differently.

You’ll walk away with specific things you can say when you don’t know what to say, a new perspective on what autism really means, and the confidence to start speaking your truth.

This one is for every mom who’s ever whispered the word, avoided the conversation, or questioned whether she’s doing this right.

Whether you’re still sitting in fear or just unsure how to explain things to others, this episode will give you perspective, courage, and practical support. Because the more you talk about it, the easier it becomes.

And remember — your child isn’t broken. They’re just different. And different isn’t bad.

Tune in for actionable advice and heartfelt encouragement, because you are not alone on this journey!

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠
Get Details HERE

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors⁠⁠

⁠⁠124. What to do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)

This Best of Summer episode is for every autism mom who’s ever found herself locked in a battle of wills with her child—especially during the tween, teen, or young adult years.

In this honest and solution-focused conversation, Shannon dives into what’s really behind those power struggles, resistance, and seemingly defiant behaviors. She shares why arguments escalate, how to recognize red herrings (those sneaky distractions that derail progress), and what to do instead.

You’ll walk away with strategies to create calm, reduce conflict, and set boundaries that actually stick—all while staying grounded and connected to your child.

Whether your child slams doors, talks back, or pushes every single boundary—this episode will help you bring peace to your parenting and power to your presence.

Tune in to learn how to navigate defiance with confidence and build a more peaceful home environment.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback not only supports the podcast but also creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership! Get access to exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!

https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠

Additional Resources:

Join The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

Episode 96. Our Parenting Journey is Different⁠

Episode 74. You Cannot Fix All the Things All the Time⁠

This episode struck a deep chord with so many of you—and that’s why it’s part of our Best of Summer series.

Too often, our children are underestimated simply because they’re autistic. In this episode, Shannon revisits the powerful reminder that low expectations can become invisible barriers—and how shifting our mindset can open up opportunities we never imagined.

Whether it’s at school, at home, or in the community, your child deserves to be seen for who they are and what they’re capable of. Shannon shares stories, lessons learned from raising Jordan, and ways you can start raising the bar while still honoring your child’s individual journey.

This one’s about encouragement, belief, and the quiet strength it takes to expect more when others expect less.

Join Shannon for an inspiring conversation about raising the bar for your child and believing in their abilities, no matter what others might say. Whether you have a son or daughter on the spectrum, this episode will remind you to stop saying “They can’t” and start believing in “They will.”

Tune in for encouragement, insights, and actionable advice to help you keep going, stay strong, and never give up. You’ve got this!

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership at https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/

Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly
understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! ⁠⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

70. What Do You Make Their Behavior Mean?

124. What To Do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)