The Power of Online Support for Autism Caregiver Communities

In this episode of the Inchstones podcast, host Sarah Kernion sits down with fellow autism moms Kat and Erica for a real, honest talk about what life is really like raising neurodivergent kids. Kat and Erica both have substantial Instagram followings and have formed community through sharing of their individual family's stories. Together, they open up about the beautiful, messy, and often overwhelming parts of their journeys—how they’ve struggled, what’s helped them keep going, and the small wins that mean everything. They talk about the emotional rollercoaster of parenting children with autism, how powerful it is to find your people, and why showing up vulnerably (especially online) can make all the difference. It's a reminder that behind every story is a mom who just wants to be seen, heard, and believed and that there’s magic in walking this road TOGETHER. Kathy Riojas is a Dallas, TX-based Licensed Professional Counselor and mom to three, including an energetic non-speaking autistic boy.  Instagram @withlove.kat Erica Fortune is a former mental health counselor for children. She is currently a stay-at-home mom supporting her two autistic boys (ages 5 and 3) and 18-month-old daughter. Instagram @autistic_wild.and.free