When your child is melting down, your instinct is to fix it. To solve it. To make it stop.
But here’s the truth—before you can teach regulation, you have to model it.

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom Podcast, Shannon dives deep into why emotional validation is the foundation for every behavioral strategy that actually works.She explains what “feelings first” really looks like in real life, shares real-life scenarios from Jordan (now 29), and offers concrete phrases and resets to help your child feel safe before you address behavior.

You’ll also hear about her upcoming book, When Life Doesn’t Go As Planned: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting an Autistic Child, coming in 2026 — written straight from her heart for moms just like you.

Because when you learn to see the feeling before the behavior, you begin to change everything — startingwith yourself.

🎧 Listen now wherever you stream podcasts.
💙 Connect | Coach | Community: www.notyouraverageautismmom.com

🌟 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!⁠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 directlyat ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠133.Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

Advocating is part of everyday life when you’re raising a child on the autism spectrum — but it can also be exhausting. In this episode, Shannon shares how to manageyour energy so you can advocate effectively without burning out. Learn how to protect your peace, choose your battles wisely, and sustain your advocacy over the long haul.

Shannon also recommends revisiting Episode 157, “Reframing Defeat; Your Child’s Progressis Closer Than You Think,” for added insight and support.

🎧 Listen now and discover how to keep showing up — notjust for your child, but for yourself and your family — with calm confidence and energy that lasts.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates withyou, 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.

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?

• Disconnect to Reconnect; The Impact of Screen Addiction

• Uncharted Territory in Special Education

Life runs on rules—and our kids need practice learning them at home so they can navigate the real world with safety and confidence. In this episode, Shannon shares why rules aren’t harsh or unfair; they’re loving preparation. You’ll learn how to make expectations clear, follow through consistently, and use consequences that teach (not scare).

Shannon opens up about Jordan’s electronics story—why she used to give in, how taking devices away at 24 was the hardest season, and the freedom that followed. No judgment here—just encouragement, clarity, and one simple challenge to help you start today.

I was honored to join Nichole Berlie on News Nation NOW ahead of the administration's press conference on autism & the search for causes.

My hope is that research continues—but without blame or shame for parents. Families deserve support and answers.

Watch at the link below:

NEWS NATION NOW Interview

🌟 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.

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.

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 MOVEMENT on FB⁠⁠⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/thenotyouraverageautismmommovement

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 146. The Myth of “One Day”; Spectrum of Strengths⁠⁠

⁠⁠Episode 149. Parenting Imperfectly; Guilt Free Zone