No Single Word: Music, Sibling Connection, and Finding Voice Beyond Language

In this episode of Connecting the Dots, hosts Megan Trowbridge and Simon Buehrer welcome singer-songwriter and student Jalyn Short for a heartfelt conversation about sibling connection, communication, and creativity.Jalyn shares her experience growing up with her sister Carlin, who is nonspeaking and on the autism spectrum, reflecting on how their relationship has shaped her understanding of patience, advocacy, and empathy. She also highlights the vital role her parents played in supporting both daughters; creating an environment of openness, balance, and opportunity that allowed each of them to grow and thrive. Through storytelling and music, Jalyn illustrates how meaningful connection can exist beyond words through touch, shared experiences, and deep understanding. The episode features a performance of her original song, “No Single Word,” a tribute to her sister and their bond, offering a powerful reminder that communication takes many forms and that connection is felt just as much as it is spoken.Resources: Jalyn Short Music:  (stream her music on all streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music) and follow her on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.OCALI Family Resource HubCheck out these books about siblings from the OCALI Lending Library:The Sibling Survival Guide: Indispensable Information for Brothers and Sisters of Adults With DisabilitiesSibling Stories: Reflections On Life With A Brother Or Sister On The Autism SpectrumEverybody is Different: A Book for Young People Who Have Brothers or Sisters with Autism