In this heartfelt and urgent episode, I reflect on a long-standing goal I've held since the launch of this podcast: to speak with a gun violence prevention advocate about the devastating impact of mass shootings, particularly in schools. As a classroom teacher, this issue is deeply personal. The statistics are staggering—but behind them are real people, real families, and far too many children lost.

That goal led me to Moms Demand Action, a grassroots movement founded by Shannon Watts in the wake of the Sandy Hook tragedy. What began as a Facebook group created by one mother has evolved into a nationwide force advocating for stronger gun laws and safer communities.

In 2024, I attended my first meeting. But it wasn’t until I got on an "action bus" to Albany, New York—a place where I earned my undergraduate education—that I truly felt the power of community activism. I joined fellow advocates to meet with lawmakers and push for three essential bills that address:

• The ban of semi-automatic handguns that can be converted into machine guns using illegal Glock switches,
• The codification and expansion of New York’s Office of Gun Violence Prevention,
• A simplified and strengthened firearm storage law.

These aren't radical ideas—they're common-sense measures to save lives.

This episode isn't just about one person's journey into advocacy—it's about what happens when we move from storytelling to action. I found inspiration, purpose, and a network of passionate people who believe we can and must do better.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What can I do?”—this episode is your invitation to find out.

• Moms Demand Action: https://momsdemandaction.org
• Everytown for Gun Safety: https://everytown.org
• Shannon Watts on Twitter: @shannonrwatts
• “In the Battle Against Gun Violence, Shannon Watts Fights Like a Mother” – Glamour Article

Attend a local Moms Demand Action meeting. Speak up. Vote smart. And when the “action bus” rolls into your town—get on.

https://momsdemandaction.org/

🎧 Subscribe, share, and stay tuned for my upcoming interview with a gun prevention advocate.

In this conversation, Kristie Raymond discusses her revolutionary approach to modeling and casting, focusing on inclusivity and representation for individuals with disabilities. She emphasizes the importance of building a talent pool of adaptive talent to ensure authentic representation in media. Kristie shares her journey in founding Humankind Casting, her experiences in the industry, and the impact of inclusive casting on individuals and society. The conversation highlights the need for education, awareness, and collaboration to create opportunities for underrepresented communities in the modeling world.

takeaways

• Creating a talent pool of adaptive talent is essential for inclusive casting.
• Representation matters in advertising and media.
• Building confidence in individuals with disabilities can change their lives.
• The modeling industry needs to evolve to include diverse talent.
• Education and awareness are crucial for industry professionals.
• Inclusive casting can lead to authentic representation in media.
• The journey of Humankind Casting is about empowering individuals.
• Collaboration with organizations can enhance opportunities for talent.
• The impact of advertising on the disability community is significant.
• Creating a supportive environment fosters growth and confidence.

titles

• Revolutionizing Representation in Modeling
• Building a Talent Pool for Inclusive Casting

Sound Bites

• "It's about the human connection."
• "Representation matters, right?"
• "It's okay to go for inclusive casting."

Chapters

00:00

Technical Difficulties and Introduction

02:50

The Importance of Inclusive Casting

05:56

Authenticity in Representation

09:12

Building Confidence Through Modeling

11:57

The Journey of Kristie Raymond

15:54

Founding Humankind Casting

19:04

Challenges in the Industry

21:55

Creating a Talent Pool

25:09

The Future of Inclusive Casting

31:15

Scaling Opportunities in Secondary Markets

34:40

Building a Diverse Talent Pool

37:18

The Importance of Representation

39:12

Authenticity in Advertising

42:04

Impact of DEI Policies

44:42

The Casting Process Explained

46:18

Expanding Clinics and Opportunities

51:14

Educating the Industry

55:12

Empowering Creatives

58:14

Navigating the Hiring Process

https://www.youarehumankind.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristieraymond/

In this conversation, Erica shares her journey as a late diagnosed autistic ADHD female and the insights gained from parenting her neurodivergent child. She discusses the emotional challenges faced due to societal norms and the importance of self-acceptance. The dialogue emphasizes the value of different perspectives, the significance of asking for help, and the need to challenge societal expectations regarding disability and worth. In this conversation, Erica and Mark explore the themes of compassion, acceptance, and the interconnectedness of social justice issues, particularly focusing on autism and animal rights. Erica shares her personal journey, the importance of communication in relationships, and how her experiences shape her advocacy work. They discuss the need for understanding and validating diverse experiences, the significance of amplifying marginalized voices, and the privilege of being able to express oneself freely. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collective liberation and the responsibility to advocate for all living beings.

takeaways

• Erica's journey began as a late diagnosed autistic ADHD female.
• Understanding her child's perspective helped Erica appreciate her own neurodivergence.
• Receiving a professional diagnosis was validating for Erica.
• Emotional wounds stemmed from societal narratives about autism.
• Erica felt alienated despite being socially active.
• The concept of 'normal' is problematic and often harmful.
• Society often overlooks the value of neurodivergent individuals.
• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Elders in society are often marginalized and undervalued.
• Parenting a neurodivergent child can lead to profound self-discovery. Compassion allows individuals to navigate their experiences authentically.
• Communication and trust are essential in relationships, especially in understanding diverse perspectives.
• Erica's journey highlights the importance of finding supportive environments for personal growth.
• Advocacy for animals and social justice is interconnected and essential for collective liberation.
• Understanding autism requires recognizing the unique experiences of each individual.
• The narrative around autism and disability needs to shift towards acceptance and validation.
• Amplifying marginalized voices is crucial in the fight for social justice.
• Privilege plays a significant role in how individuals navigate their identities and experiences.
• Education should come from lived experiences to foster understanding and empathy.
• Collective care is necessary for the well-being of all living beings.

Sound Bites

• "I began to see myself through that same lens."
• "I felt like I was constantly comparing myself."
• "Our worth really comes down to productivity."
• "It's not a sign of weakness to ask for help."
• "We have to give people more credit."
• "You just need to be willing to say, I believe you."
• "It's about collective care and collective liberation."
• "We can expand that to include everybody."
• "Animals are always the bottom of the rung."
• "This message needs to get out there."
• "We need to educate from lived experiences."
• "Showing up as ourselves is a privilege."
• "It's important to recognize our privilege."

Chapters00:00

Introduction and Background

02:56

Understanding Neurodivergence

06:10

Personal Experiences with Autism and ADHD

08:56

The Impact of Diagnosis

12:01

Navigating Social Norms and Expectations

15:03

The Value of Different Perspectives

17:56

Disability and Worth in Society

20:49

Asking for Help and Support

24:05

The Role of...

In this episode, we address the dangerous and deeply offensive comments made by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his April 16, 2025 press conference, where he claimed autism is “preventable” and described individuals on the spectrum as incapable of working, dating, writing poetry, or living independent lives.

We confront these statements with facts, lived experience, and community response.

From debunking outdated vaccine myths to amplifying the voices of autistic adults and their families, we’re here to set the record straight.

RFK Jr.’s rhetoric isn’t just wrong—it’s harmful. And our community deserves better.

Segment 1: Breaking Down the Claims

• What RFK Jr. said and why it’s dangerous
• The truth about thimerosal and autism
• Scientific consensus from CDC, WHO, AAP, IOM, and JAMA Psychiatry

Segment 2: The Community Claps Back

• Responses from Holly Robinson Peete, Dr. Peter Hotez, and our own community
• Real-life stories of autistic individuals thriving in work, love, and creativity

Segment 3: What Families Really Need

• Support, not stigma
• Why RFK’s message misses the mark entirely

Segment 4: Moving Forward

• How to respond to misinformation
• Ways we can build inclusive, empowering spaces for all neurodivergent people

• Autism is not caused by vaccines or thimerosal.
• Genetics play a major role in autism.
• Autistic people can and do live meaningful, connected, and creative lives.
• The real barrier is not autism—it’s misinformation and underfunded systems.
• Words matter, and so does leadership rooted in truth and compassion.

• CDC on Thimerosal & Autism
• Institute of Medicine 2004 Report
• JAMA Psychiatry 2019 Heritability Study
• WHO Vaccine Safety
• Holly Robinson Peete’s Response
• Dr. Peter Hotez’s Commentary

Autism is not a tragedy. Stigma is.

We don't need cures. We need compassion.



summary

In this conversation, Gaile Valcho discusses the evolution of the Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day, highlighting the importance of community engagement, police involvement, and the establishment of a nonprofit organization to support families with autistic children. She shares insights on training first responders, the significance of family dynamics, and the challenges of parenting a teenager with autism. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, support systems, and self-care strategies for parents. In this conversation, Gaile Valcho discusses the importance of guardianship for her son Brady, who has autism, and the steps they are taking to ensure his independence and well-being as he approaches adulthood. She emphasizes the need for families to understand the legal and medical implications of guardianship. Gaile also shares her role at the Hand Center for Autism, where she supports families and builds community partnerships to provide resources for children with autism. The conversation touches on the challenges of living with chronic illness while parenting, the significance of the spoon theory in understanding energy levels, and the need for better education and awareness in schools regarding autism. Gaile highlights the importance of community engagement and acceptance for individuals with autism and their families.

takeaways

• The Holly Springs Autism Acceptance Day has grown significantly over the years.
• Police involvement is crucial for building community trust and understanding.
• Training first responders on autism can prevent misunderstandings in crisis situations.
• Establishing a nonprofit allows for more structured support and fundraising efforts.
• Family dynamics play a vital role in managing the challenges of autism.
• Self-care is essential for parents to maintain their well-being.
• Involving children in decision-making fosters independence and confidence.
• ABA therapy can be beneficial for older children with autism.
• Community events can enhance awareness and support for families.
• Creative solutions are necessary for finding time for self-care. Guardianship is crucial for individuals with disabilities as they transition to adulthood.
• Families should actively pursue guardianship to ensure their loved ones' rights and needs are met.
• Community resources and partnerships are essential for supporting families with autistic children.
• Events like Autism Acceptance Day foster community engagement and awareness.
• Living with chronic illness can complicate parenting responsibilities.
• The spoon theory helps in understanding energy management for those with chronic conditions.
• Education systems often lack the necessary awareness about autism, leading to punitive measures.
• Invisible disabilities are often misunderstood by the public, leading to stigma.
• Building relationships with community organizations can enhance support for families.
• Open conversations about disabilities can lead to greater understanding and acceptance.

Sound Bites

• "You look great and I'm joking the switch"
• "They really embraced the idea"
• "It's one thing to have police involvement"
• "We became a nonprofit during COVID"
• "We need some help"
• "You need an outlet, a healthy one"
• "We find it really beneficial again for us"
• "That's the promised land."
• "It's an amazingly fun day."
• "I got diagnosed with lupus over COVID."
• "I use the spoon theory."
• "There's invisible handicaps, sir."
• "We're in a very judgy world."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Autism Acceptance Day

03:01

Police Involvement and Community Engagement

05:59

Training First...

Show Notes

In this conversation, Mark interviews David Tillman, a dedicated father of a son with Fragile X syndrome. David shares his journey as a parent, the challenges and joys of raising Miles, and the importance of community support. They discuss the impact of Fragile X syndrome on Miles' life, the significance of music and arts in education, and the need for advocacy in the disability community. David emphasizes the value of patience, understanding, and connection in navigating the complexities of raising a child with special needs.

takeaways

• David Tillman emphasizes the importance of dad representation in discussions about parenting children with special needs.
• Fragile X syndrome presents unique challenges, but also opportunities for connection and joy.
• Community support is crucial for families navigating disabilities.
• Music and arts can play a significant role in the development of children with special needs.
• Patience and understanding are key in helping children with disabilities thrive in social situations.
• The Fragile X community provides invaluable resources and connections for families.
• Social media can help families connect with others facing similar challenges.
• Advocacy is essential for ensuring that the needs of children with disabilities are met.
• Preparing for the future involves teaching independence and life skills from an early age.
• Every family’s journey is unique, and it’s important to celebrate the small victories.

Sound Bites

• "I love talking about Miles."
• "We can do this, Miles."
• "It's a beautiful vision."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to David Tillman and His Journey

02:18

Understanding Fragile X Syndrome and Its Impact

08:19

Navigating Family Dynamics and Support Systems

11:00

The Importance of Community and Connection

13:20

Music as a Bonding Tool

17:48

The Need for Arts Programs in Disability Advocacy

21:43

Advocacy and Raising Awareness

25:07

Finding Balance and Celebrating Moments

27:20

Navigating Crisis Moments

31:24

Understanding Diagnosis and Support

41:04

Building Community Connections

46:24

Advocacy and Future Planning

Instagram: @xtraordinarymiles

https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-tillman-phd/

Podcast Show Notes: Impact of Policy Changes on Special Needs Families

Episode Overview:

Welcome to today’s episode where we explore the impact of policy changes on families of individuals with disabilities. With potential cuts to Medicaid and the Department of Education, many families worry about losing access to essential services. In this episode, I break down what these changes could mean and share actionable steps you can take to protect your child's future. Please note that this information is for educational purposes and not legal advice.

Key Topics Covered:

• Understanding how Medicaid and Medicare cuts could affect individuals with disabilities
• Potential impacts of reduced federal oversight on special education
• Special Needs Trusts (SNTs) and how they safeguard government benefit eligibility
• ABLE Accounts for flexible, tax-advantaged savings
• Choosing the right trustee for your child’s Special Needs Trust

Special Needs Trusts (SNTs):

• First-Party SNTs: Funded with the beneficiary’s assets, often from settlements or inheritances. Includes a Medicaid payback provision.
• Third-Party SNTs: Created by family members or friends, with no Medicaid payback requirement.
• Benefits: Maintain eligibility for Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) while providing supplemental support.
• Resources:
• CHOP: Special Needs Trusts Overview
• NYS Bar Association: Improved Trust Administration
• McAndrews Law Firm: Establishing a Trust
• International Bipolar Foundation: Management Models

ABLE Accounts:

• Annual contribution limit of $18,000, with additional contributions for working individuals.
• Tax-free growth for qualified expenses like education, housing, and assistive technology.
• SSI protection for accounts under $100,000.
• Complements SNTs for managing day-to-day expenses.
• Learn more at the ABLE National Resource Center.

Choosing the Right Trustee:

• Family Member Trustee: Offers personal insight and familiarity but may lack financial and legal expertise.
• Professional Trustee: Provides expertise in financial management but may have higher fees.
• Co-Trustees: Combines the strengths of a family member and a professional.
• Pooled Trusts: Managed by nonprofit organizations for cost-effective management.
• Evaluate factors like financial knowledge, understanding of benefit rules, and long-term commitment.

Next Steps:

1. Consult a Special Needs Attorney: Find one through NAELA or the Special Needs Alliance.
2. Open an ABLE Account: Compare programs using the ABLE National Resource Center.
3. Develop a Letter of Intent: Document your child’s care preferences and essential information.
4. Consider Life Insurance: Fund a third-party SNT to provide ongoing support.
5. Review Your Plan: Regularly revisit your financial plan to accommodate changes...

This episode also appears on the Purge 47 podcast which is in its infancy with few followers. I feel this information is important and so I'm adding it to this podcast. Check out Purge 47 for continuing episodes related to disability politics.

Podcast Show Notes: Understanding Medicaid & The Fight to Protect It

Introduction

• Welcome to the show! Today, I'm diving into Medicaid—what it is, how it works, and why proposed budget cuts could have devastating consequences for millions of Americans with disabilities.
• If you or a loved one rely on Medicaid, this episode is for you. Stay tuned to learn how you can take action to protect this essential program.

Segment 1: What is Medicaid?

• Medicaid is a government-funded health insurance program that provides free or low-cost healthcare to low-income individuals, families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• It is distinct from Medicare, which serves seniors (65+) and certain disabled individuals regardless of income.
• Medicaid covers hospital visits, doctor appointments, prescription drugs, and long-term care, including Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) that help individuals with disabilities live independently.
• Funded jointly by federal and state governments, meaning eligibility and benefits vary by state.

Key Differences Between Medicaid & Medicare:

FeatureMedicareMedicaidWho It CoversSeniors (65+) & some with disabilitiesLow-income individuals, children, pregnant women, elderly, and disabled peopleFundingFederal programJoint federal & state programIncome Limits?NoYes, based on financial needCoverageHospital care, doctor visits, some prescriptionsHospital care, doctor visits, prescriptions, long-term care, and sometimes dental & visionCost to PatientsMay have premiums & co-paysUsually low or no cost, some states have small co-paysLong-Term Care?LimitedYes, covers nursing homes & in-home care

Who Can Have Both?

• Some individuals qualify for both Medicaid and Medicare, known as “dual eligibility.” Medicaid can help cover Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs.

Segment 2: Medicaid Under Threat – Proposed Budget Cuts

• The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a budget framework that proposes cutting over $800 billion from Medicaid over the next decade.
• Advocates warn that these cuts could:
• Limit access to essential health services for over 10 million people with disabilities.
• Reduce funding for HCBS, forcing more people into institutional care.
• Deepen the workforce crisis in disability services—69% of providers have already had to decline new clients due to staffing shortages.
• Put nursing home care at risk, affecting millions of seniors.
• Leave states struggling to fill the funding gap, leading to more people losing coverage.

What’s at Stake?

• More than 700,000 people are already on waiting lists for Medicaid waivers that provide home and community-based services.
• Cuts could force families to become full-time caregivers, quit jobs, or lose access to critical health services.
• ACLU and disability rights advocates stress that Medicaid is a lifeline—not just another budget line item.

Segment 3: Why This Matters

• Medicaid is more than just a government program—it’s a promise to protect our most vulnerable citizens.
• If these cuts go through, real people will lose access to care, families will face overwhelming burdens, and communities will suffer.
• Experts warn that Medicaid funding reductions could lead to:
• Over 15.9 million people losing their Medicaid or CHIP coverage by 2026.
• Reduced support for children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• Longer waiting lists and fewer available...