Raising an Autistic Adult with Joy | Josie of Autistically Speaking | Corie Sheppard Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful and heartfelt conversation, Corie sits down with Josie, the creator of the growing social media platform Autistically Speaking, where she shares the real, unfiltered journey of raising her son Andre, a young adult on the autism spectrum.Originally from Sangre Grande, Josie has spent over two decades living abroad but remains deeply connected to Trinidad & Tobago and its culture. Through her page Autistically Speaking, she documents everyday life with Andre — from barbershop conversations and grocery runs to music, soca, and family moments — showing that autism does not mean a life without joy, growth, or independence.Andre’s personality, honesty, and love for music have made him a favourite among followers, while Josie’s candid storytelling and advocacy have created a supportive community for parents navigating similar journeys.In this episode, they discuss:Andre’s autism diagnosis and early developmental challengesThe cultural stigma around disabilities in Caribbean communitiesHow Josie turned social media into a support network for familiesTeaching independence, life skills, and resilienceAndre’s love for soca music and Trinidadian cultureThe mission behind Autistically Speaking and building an autism community in Trinidad & TobagoThis is a conversation about parenthood, patience, culture, and purpose — and about finding joy in milestones that society often overlooks.