Tyler Barnett on Late Autism Self-Diagnosis, Masking, and Creating “Gap Music” for Regulation
Host Tony Mantor welcomes Tyler Barnett, founder of Tyler Barnett PR and an artistic music creator focused on empowering the autism community through intentional sound design and storytelling.
Tyler shares that he is autistic and was diagnosed six months ago through self-diagnosis supported by years of personal data and extensive testing, after his 10-year-old daughter repeatedly told him he was autistic and he explored the topic through ChatGPT.
He describes lifelong differences including deep special interests, pattern recognition, challenges in educational environments, learned eye contact, and complex masking as a professional communicator, as well as past misdiagnoses such as bipolar disorder and being medicated incorrectly. T
yler discusses mixed reactions when disclosing autism, including denial from some family members and acceptance from others, and explains how masking involved mirroring facial expressions and behavior to make others comfortable. T
yler also talks about his daughter Lucy’s official autism diagnosis, her strengths (friends, eye contact, dance talent) alongside daily school distress, meltdowns, and limited understanding from her school team about autism in girls.
He explains how the diagnosis has improved family dynamics, increased empathy, and helped Lucy feel less isolated, while also describing how he can help regulate her during meltdowns. The conversation shifts to Tyler’s music: electronic, lyric-driven work combining traditional production with AI vocals and emergent elements.
He explains his “gap music” concept—music designed for emotional regulation using structures like 3-6-9 tension/expansion/release loops and pattern shifts across genres (classical, choir/mantra, dubstep, hip hop) to create soothing but unpredictable listening experiences.
Tyler says he has not formally released the project widely but has received strong feedback from neurodivergent listeners and notes that his daughter, wife, and dog fell asleep when hearing it. He shares where to find his work: YouTube channel “Gap Music for beautiful Brains” (@GapMusicforRegulation), Instagram @enzo, tylerbarnettpr.com, and TikTok @MillennialDad, and says he plans to release tracks over the next month from a catalog of about 80.

Welcome to ‘Why Not Me’ — Autism & Mental Health Worldwide
Meet Tyler Barnett: PR Strategist, Artist & Sound Designer
Realizing He’s Autistic: ‘I’ve Always Been Different’
ChatGPT, Self-Testing & the Emotional Breakthrough
Telling Others: Family Pushback vs. Community Support
Masking 101: Mirroring, Eye Contact & ‘Dog and Pony Show’
Lucy’s Diagnosis: School Struggles, Meltdowns & Support Gaps
A Stronger Bond: Co-Regulation and Parenting Shifts at Home
To Disclose or Not: Labels, Stigma, and Protecting Your Peace
Finding the Flow: How Autism Changed His PR Work & Creativity
Inside ‘Gap Music’: 3-6-9 Patterns, AI Emergence & Regulation
Where to Listen + Final Thanks and Sign-Off

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild
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The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

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Making Air Travel More Accessible for Autistic Travelers: Cheryl Bischoff of Here I Go Travel
Host Tony Mantor introduces the podcast “Why Not Me: Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide” and interviews Cheryl Bischoff, owner of Here I Go Travel Company. Cheryl explains how she became a Certified Autism Travel Professional through training offered by Sandals/Beaches Resorts and how she applies that knowledge by organizing airport practice events that walk participants through the full airport process—terminal check-in, TSA screening, gate procedures, jet bridge, and boarding—so travelers can desensitize and build confidence.
She discusses autistic-inclusive travel needs beyond basic accessibility, including managing sound, lighting, smells, and access to reset spaces like sensory-friendly rooms, as well as tools like TSA Cares (pre-registration for guided assistance and alternative screening options) and the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program for voluntary identification. C
heryl shares that the certification landscape has expanded to include certified airports, airlines, destinations, and entire cities, noting Dubai as the first certified airport.
She describes serving all ages, providing preparation materials, recommending nonstop flights for first-time flyers when possible, and offering door-to-door travel planning while balancing the need for extra time with avoiding long gate waits.
Cheryl highlights growth of the events to include other needs (blind/low vision, mobility issues, wheelchairs, cystic fibrosis, cerebral palsy) and shares an example of a child successfully riding an escalator for the first time during an event.
She promotes her new site and social channels (navigateevents.org; Navigate Events on Facebook and Instagram) for event registration updates, and says expanding to new communities requires sponsorship to keep events free and enough participants to demonstrate demand, citing interest in Kansas City ahead of FIFA 2026.
She closes by emphasizing travel as vital for family connection, jobs, medical care, and life experiences, and invites communities to contact her to bring events locally.

Welcome to ‘Why Not Me’ — Autism & Mental Health Worldwide
Meet Cheryl Bischoff & Here I Go Travel: Making Travel Accessible
Becoming a Certified Autism Travel Professional + The Airport Practice Event
Dubai, Certified Airports & the Rise of Autism-Friendly Travel Systems
What Truly Makes Travel Autism-Inclusive: Sensory Needs & Reset Spaces
Building Trust with Families: TSA Cares and Other Hidden Supports
Beyond Autism: Practice Events for Many Disabilities & Mobility Needs
Supporting Autistic Adults & Hidden Disabilities: The Sunflower Program
From Practice to Real Travel Days: Preparation, Timing, and Nonstop Tips
What the Industry Still Needs: Sensory Rooms, Training, and Keeping Families Together
Wins That Matter: Escalators, Confidence, and First-Time Flyers
How to Find Navigate Events + Expanding Nationwide (Sponsors & Participants Needed)
Final Takeaway & Closing: Travel as Connection, Opportunity, and Inclusion

https://NavigateEvents.org
https://youtu.be/Jcr2avKrep4
https://youtu.be/mfsP40HNNH4

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild
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The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of 'Why Not Me, Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide,' host Tony Mantor from Nashville, Tennessee, interviews Dan Franklin, a passionate autism advocate with 31 years of lived experience.
Dan shares his insights on autistic wiring, trauma responses, masking, scripting, burnout, and sensory processing.
He discusses the challenges faced by autistic individuals navigating a world built for neurotypicals and emphasizes the need for mandatory autism education across society.
Dan also touches on the importance of approaching autistic individuals with understanding and compassion, and how proper autism training can facilitate a more inclusive world.

Meet Dan Franklin: Autism Advocate
Dan's Advocacy Journey
Challenges and Misunderstandings
Learning and Overcoming
Advocacy and Education Efforts
Addressing Misconceptions
Final Thoughts and Contact Information

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Belqui Ortiz Millili on Parenting a Nonverbal Autistic Teen, Advocacy, and Building Support
Host Tony Mantor welcomes Belqui Ortiz Millili to Why Not Me: Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide.
She shares that she is the mother of a nearly 17-year-old nonverbal autistic son with high support needs, born extremely premature at six months gestation, and describes early concerns when milestones lagged compared to her older child.
She recounts pushing for answers despite being told delays were due to prematurity or gender, and discusses common public misunderstandings about autism, including lack of awareness of the spectrum and confusion over changing diagnostic labels and levels.
She explains how her son’s diagnosis led her into advocacy, including earning a life coaching certification to support newly diagnosed families, initially offering help for free after seeing the financial burden of therapies not fully covered by insurance.
She talks about burnout, the impact autism-related stress can have on marriage, and how she and her husband navigate different parenting approaches while prioritizing their son’s happiness.
The conversation covers isolation experienced by families of nonverbal autistic children, shifting support networks as children age, and her current challenges planning for adulthood, conservatorship, and lifelong caregiving responsibilities.
She emphasizes the need for broader education and inclusion starting in early school years, more opportunities and job pathways for autistic people, and practical guidance for parents on accessing state and insurance services—citing Arizona’s DDD supports, long-term care, therapy coverage, and respite/habilitation hours.
Belqui closes by encouraging parents to build a village, protect their relationships, and reclaim parts of their own lives beyond autism while continuing to support their child.

Welcome to ‘Why Not Me’ — Autism & Mental Health Stories That Connect Us
Meet Host Tony Mantor + Today’s Guest: Blquuii Ortiz Millili
Belqui’s Autism Journey Begins: Her Nonverbal Son & High Support Needs
Early Signs, Premature Birth, and Fighting to Be Heard by Doctors
What People Get Wrong About Autism: The Spectrum, Stereotypes, and ‘Levels’
From Parenting to Advocacy: Becoming an Autism Support Coach
Burnout Is Real: Resilience, Support Systems, and Surviving the Hard Days
Marriage Under Pressure: Different Parenting Styles & Keeping the Family Together
Identity and Strength: How Autism Changed How She Sees Herself
Nonverbal Autism Realities: Communication, Safety, and Feeling ‘Trapped’ at Home
The Hardest Season: Teen Years, Adulthood Planning, and Conservatorship
Support, Community, and Friendships: What Helps (and What Falls Away) Over Time
The Next 5–10 Years: Awareness in Schools and Real Opportunities for Autistic Adults
Newly Diagnosed? First Steps, State Services, and How to Avoid Overwhelm
Taking Care of Yourself Too: Building a Village and Reclaiming Your Life
Final Thanks + How to Share the Show and Get Involved

INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Faria Ash on Building the Autism Foundation, Training, Advocacy, and Safer Care in the UK
Host Tony Mantor welcomes back autism advocate Faria Ash, who returns to share her progress since discussing her book on toilet training for autistic and SEND children and adults, based on her nonverbal daughter Aia’s real-life story.
Faria explains that the book’s success led her to form the Autism Foundation in the UK (officially launched October 2023), expanding from workshops into autism training for communities, professionals, schools, and care homes, with a focus on communication, social interaction, repetitive behaviors, sensory impairments, and reducing challenging behaviors to improve quality of life. She describes launching an advocacy service to help parents navigate UK processes such as EHCP reports and school documentation so children receive appropriate support.
The conversation addresses misconceptions about autism—especially the idea that “autism is a superpower”—and outlines autism “levels” (1–3) through the core assessment areas of communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors.
Faria also discusses the overlap between autism and anxiety, emphasizing routines and structure as key supports, and shares challenges including resistance from authorities and difficulties fundraising to create a safe care facility amid reports of abuse in care settings.
For Autism Awareness Month, she emphasizes that true inclusion requires asking autistic people and families what practical accommodations would help them participate in schools, workplaces, and communities, and she shares how to find her online via autismfoundation.co.uk and her social media profiles.

Welcome to 'Why Not Me' — Autism & Mental Health Worldwide
Meet Your Host Tony Mantor + Why Following Helps
Introducing Guest Faria Ash & Her Growing Autism Foundation (UK)
What’s Changed Since Last Time: Book Launch, Foundation, and Care Facility Vision
How the Autism Foundation Started: Aia’s Story & Toilet Training Breakthrough
Training the Community: Sensory Needs, Communication, and Challenging Behavior
Foundation Growth: Care Homes, Professional Training, and Parent Advocacy (EHCPs)
Fixing Misconceptions: Social Media, ‘Autism as a Superpower,’ and Nonverbal Reality
Where to Start When Learning Autism: The 3 Core Areas (Communication, Social, Repetitive)
Explaining Autism Levels 1–3 (and What They Look Like Day-to-Day)
Autism & Anxiety Overlap: Why Routine Helps and How to Support It
Hard Lessons Building a Foundation: Authorities, Funding, and Safe Care for Vulnerable Adults
The Parents’ Resilience: Stories That Keep the Mission Going
Beyond Awareness Month: What Real Inclusion Looks Like in Communities
One Misconception to End: ‘Autism Is a Superpower’
How to Connect with Faria + What’s Next for the Foundation
Final Thanks & How to Share Your Story with the Show

INTRO/OUTRO: T.Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Lois Brady on Autism Digest, Real Stories, and Raising Expectations in Autism Support
Host Tony Mantor welcomes Lois Brady, publisher of Autism Digest and a speech-language pathologist, to discuss how the magazine blends expert guidance with lived experience using multimedia features like QR-linked videos.
Brady shares how writing Apps for Autism and contributing to Autism, Asperger’s Digest led to her acquiring the publication nearly two years ago. As the mother of an autistic son, she describes early signs, being brushed off by providers, choosing not to label him in school, and the long-term effort that helped him become independent and employed, though social challenges remain.
Brady emphasizes early identification, practical parent strategies, and avoiding the Rosenthal Effect of low expectations, including teaching non-speaking individuals to type.
She describes a breakthrough with a non-speaking child using text-to-speech, addresses public misconceptions, contrasts meltdowns with tantrums, discusses Asperger’s being folded into autism, highlights Temple Grandin’s practical advice, and explores how AI can support early intervention and diagnostic cues.
00:00 Show Intro and Mission
01:21 Meet Lois Brady
02:18 How Autism Digest Began
04:28 Early Career and Inspiration
05:14 A Mom’s Diagnosis Journey
07:39 Early Signs and Adulthood Today
09:16 How Autism Understanding Evolved
10:33 Raising Expectations and Communication
12:16 Typing Breakthrough Story
14:24 Lessons from Autistic Voices
16:06 Media Myths and Public Understanding
17:43 Aspergers vs Autism
18:17 AI for Early Support
21:10 From Cure to Support
22:51 Temple Grandin Wisdom
24:25 Meltdowns vs Tantrums
25:41 Stories and Rising Rates
28:52 Success and High Expectations
29:57 Transitions and Exposure
31:06 Ask Learn Connect

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

n this episode of Why Not Me, host Tony Mantor, broadcasting from Nashville, Tennessee, delves into the mental health challenges faced by first responders and veterans.
Featuring Dr. Jean Cillo, a clinical and forensic psychologist, and retired Lieutenant Tom Antonette from the NYPD, the discussion explores the PTP (Post Tour Processing) program, a pioneering mental health support initiative designed by law enforcement for law enforcement, now expanded to all first responders.
The episode emphasizes the importance of providing a safe space for first responders to process trauma, the critical role of peer support, and the continuous efforts to ensure mental well-being in highly stressful jobs. Both guests shed light on the nuanced experiences of police officers, EMTs, and other first responders, underscoring the necessity for accessible mental health resources and the shift in cultural attitudes towards seeking help.

First Responders and Mental Health
Introducing Dr. Jean Cillo and Lt. Tom Antonette
Understanding Trauma in First Responders
Coping Mechanisms and Dark Humor
The Role of Post-Tour Processing
Tom Antonetti's Background and Insights
Challenges and Support for Retired Officers
Final Thoughts and Resources
Closing Remarks and Call to Action

INTRO/OUTRO: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Embracing Autism and Mental Health: Psychiatrist David Hager's Journey
In this episode of 'Why Not Me, Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide,' host Tony Mantor speaks with psychiatrist David Hager about his unplanned journey into psychiatry, his work in correctional facilities, and his unique perspectives on mental health and serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia.
Hager shares his experiences from various jobs, discusses the challenges and strategies of treating incarcerated populations, and underscores the importance of viewing severe mental illnesses as neurological disorders.
The conversation also touches on the issue of anosognosia and the need for better systemic support. Tune in for an insightful and heartfelt discussion aimed at fostering awareness and understanding of autism and mental health.

Meet David Hager: From Vet School to Psychiatry
David's Journey into Psychiatry
Challenges and Rewards in Psychiatry
Correctional Psychiatry: A Unique Perspective
Forensic Psychiatry and Systemic Issues
Reframing Mental Illness: A Neurological Perspective
Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

INTRO/OUTRO Music: T. Wild
Mantor Music BMI

The content on Why Not Me: Embracing Autism amd Mental Health Worldwide, including discussions on mental health, autism, and related topics, is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only.

The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not reflect those of the podcast, its hosts, or affiliates.

Why Not Me is not a medical or mental health professional and does not endorse or verify the accuracy, efficacy, safety of any treatments, programs, or advice discussed.

Listeners should consult qualified healthcare professionals, such as licensed therapists, psychologists, or physicians, before making decisions about mental health or autism- related care.

Reliance on this podcast's contents is at the listener's own risk.

Why Not Me is not liable for any outcomes, financial or otherwise, resulting from actions taken based on the information provided.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.