PODCAST · kids
Full Spectrum - Supporting Families Of Loved Ones With Autism
by Stephanie Stevens
Full Spectrum is a podcast dedicated to supporting and encouraging the earth angels who are parents, family members or care providers of loved ones with Autism. My intention is to create a tribe a tribe and a community where we can share our stories and our real life experiences including the challenges and rewards during each stage of the journey. As the single mom of a 4, and one with a diagnosis of Autism, I’ve been on this journey for 27 years. My experience includes setting up a therapeutic program for children with Autism, and a Community Support based program for adults with Autism and related conditions. I’ve been an advocate for the Autism community for decades and wish to support and encourage families, loved ones and care providers as we dive into the topics with transparency and honesty in order to remind us that we are not alone. We are unique and we are heroes in our own ways.
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65
Breaking free from mental overload
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about https://www.skool.com/solo-boss-mom-1406/about
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64
Nothing is wasted
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about In the midst of stress, when you’re operating in “crisis” mode, there’s fundamental truth that can help lend perspective and help turn your stresses into experiences that benefit you down the line, and others!
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63
Stop apologizing
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about Because others don’t have a baseline for all we juggle in a day, let alone in life, we tend to feel the need to explain, justify our decisions. Here’s why we need to shift that mindset…
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62
Let this be your guide…
In any given day you, as the parent of a child or adult with autism have dozens of choices to make. There are endless options of the things we “should” be doing, so in today’s episode, Stephanie sheds light on how to move away from “shoulding” ourselves, and the secret to knowing how to prioritize things for ourselves and our child that will truly make a difference. https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about
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61
What you need to know about “phases”
In today’s episode Stephanie reaches into the heart of parenting a special needs child with a reassuring message about the changing “phases” of development over time and what you need to know right now in the phase you are currently in. https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about
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60
Surrender Changes Everything
Surrender is not “giving up.” It’s the “allowing” of new pathways, and timelines and it could be the most freeing thing you contemplate today…
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59
Letting Go Without Giving Up: Peace, Faith, and Forward Movement for Autism Parents
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about For parents of children with autism, the word powerless can feel heavy—sometimes even frightening. In this episode of Full Spectrum, Stephanie Stevens carefully reframes the 12-step concept of powerlessness through a lens of faith, peace, and purposeful action. This is not about giving up or losing hope. It’s about releasing what we cannot control—outcomes, timelines, genetics, and other people’s actions—and surrendering those things to God, so we can show up with clarity, strength, and energy for what is in our care. Stephanie explores the critical difference between being powerless and being helpless, reminding parents that while we do not control everything, we absolutely have the ability to affect change through advocacy, informed decisions, early intervention, and consistent support. This episode offers encouragement for parents who are tired of carrying the weight of the unknown, while reigniting confidence in the meaningful role they play in their child’s growth, development, and future.
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58
3 Most important things this New Year..
These are the 3 elements that are going to help you – create that new thing, change that old thing, and elevate EVERYTHING this year.
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57
Advocacy Starts Here: Simple, Powerful Ways Parents Can Shape the Future for Their Children and the Autism Community
This episode empowers high-achieving parents to step into advocacy with confidence — not by adding more stress to their plates, but by helping them see how small, doable actions create massive collective impact. It blends your empathy with real-world, boots-on-the-ground tools.
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56
The CEO Mom on the Spectrum Journey: Leading at Home and in Business Without Losing Yourself
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about Parenting a child with autism while running a business isn’t just hard — it’s an advanced leadership challenge. But what if your greatest strength as a CEO is exactly what makes you the right parent for your child… and vice versa? In this episode, Stephanie breaks down how to bring your leadership gifts to both arenas — home and business — with clarity, grace, and strategy. You’ll discover how to redefine success, delegate with confidence, and create systems that serve your family and your future. Because thriving as a CEO mom on the spectrum journey isn’t about balance — it’s about alignment.
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55
Why So Many Parents of Children with Autism Feel Isolated — and How to Reconnect
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about If you’ve ever felt alone on your parenting journey — like no one truly understands what life looks like raising a child with autism or special needs — this episode is for you.Stephanie from Spectrum Nation opens up about why so many parents feel isolated, judged, and emotionally drained, and how to begin rebuilding connection, hope, and community.
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54
Politics, our children and the cost of rebellion
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about A recent announcement about the potential contributing causes to autism sparked political adversaries to take to social media to “make a point.” But, at what cost? OG Mother’s POV
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53
Feeling Overwhelmed? 3 Steps to Help Parents of Kids with Autism Reclaim Balance
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about Parenting a child on the autism spectrum or with special needs can feel overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. In this episode, Stephanie shares three simple yet powerful strategies to help parents feel more supported and confident — from micro-moments of self-care, to building a small support network, to celebrating the small wins that add up over time. She also introduces Spectrum Nation, a supportive community for high-achieving parents who want connection, resources, and a place to thrive, not just survive
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52
Redeem the Time
Allowing for a unique form of communication can tap into parts of your child with autism that you never knew existed.
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51
Response-Ability
The only way you will be able to respond "responsibly" is if you pay attention to this crucial need for your nervous system.
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50
Perspectives from Brian, a young man with autism who uses his creativity to create content and support his community
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about
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49
Autism back to school prep strategies
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about “Must Do’s” as you prep to send your child back to school. Setting up for success and having “back up” plans for the first days and weeks will help your child and help save your sanity.
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48
This mom gets it…
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about Today’s Full Spectrum podcast highlights Tina Bennett, who is a part of SpectrumNation.org and is an incredible solo mom of 3, master private chef, business owner, and mom who helped her son launch his voice is some very unique and amazing ways. Despite the fact that he has autism and is hearing impaired, this mom is helping him live out his dream in ways that are benefiting the autism community at large.
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47
Saving your marriage after diagnosis
Couples who received a special need diagnosis for their child incur on average 87% divorce rate – because they don’t have a game plan, and don’t avoid these early crucial mistakes… https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about
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46
The Others…
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about One of my children gets more “air time” than the others. I actually have 4 children. Each one of them are extraordinary. They are smart, funny and because they grew up with a brother who required extra care, attention and patience- they are incredibly compassionate and flexible young adults. Their growing up was unconventional. They didn’t have the benefit of a “typical two-parent household” (that’s more rare than not these days), and if I could go back and make it easier for them, I would. But that’s where “grace” comes in…
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45
2 Interview questions about my son with autism that rocked me.
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about In a recent radio interview I was asked these two questions about people with autism in the community, and what people need to know. The first question was simple. The second question got me emotional as I explain what it’s like to be a parent of a child with autism out in “public.”
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44
No bullies
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about Welcome back to Spectrum Nation, the podcast for high-achieving parents of children with autism who are ready to rise, lead, and thrive. Today, we’re diving into a subject that hits close to home for many of us: what to do when your child has been picked on while riding the bus—and how to get ahead of the game when it comes to their transportation and schooling plan. If you’ve ever felt that pit in your stomach hearing your child describe something painful that happened on the way to school… you’re not alone. Whether it’s teasing, being left out, or something more serious—these moments can leave us feeling shaken, angry, and unsure of what to do next.
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43
Is your story being censored too?
When I tried running ads for my new support group for parents of children with autism, I was censored and blocked from doing so on every platform. Why? https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about
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42
When You’re the Rock for Everyone Else—But You’re Crumbling Inside
https://www.skool.com/spectrumnation/about Are you the strong one in your family? The one who holds everything together—but lately, you’re running on fumes? In this episode of Spectrum Nation, we’re talking about the hidden burden of being “the rock.” For high-achieving parents of children with autism, the pressure to stay strong, stay organized, and stay in control can come at the cost of your own well-being.
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41
Where’s your “sensory break” as a parent of a child with autism?
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about As parents of children with autism, we become experts in creating sensory-friendly environments and recognizing when our kids need a break. But what about us? In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked truth: parents need sensory breaks too. Tune in as we talk about the impact of constant sensory input, how overstimulation affects our ability to show up for our families, and practical ways to build in moments of calm and reset—without guilt. This episode is a gentle reminder that your well-being matters, too.
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40
Who are you without your child’s diagnosis?
Who are you without your child’s Autism Diagnosis? This question will keep you up at night if you don’t begin to answer it for yourself. So many parents loose themselves in the daily care taking to the degree that they don’t recognize themselves. Is this you? https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about
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39
Why self care for parents of kids with autism is not an option
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811/about Self-care for those that care for others is not an option. It is a must. The downfalls of burning the candle at both ends results in things like adrenal fatigue, burn out and a loss of a sense of “self.” Here are 7 simple places to start to breathe some self-care life into your day.
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38
Hot Days, Cool Strategies: Summer Sanity for Autism Parents
https://www.skool.com/spectrum-nation-1811
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37
You’re Not Alone: Leading, Loving & Living Fully on the Autism Journey
If you’re a high-achieving, purpose-driven parent raising a child with autism — and you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one juggling IEP meetings and business meetings, therapies and deadlines, then let me just say:You’re in the right place.You’ve just found your people.
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36
What I wish I knew…
These are just 3 of the things I wish I knew when my child was first diagnosed, along with an invitation for you to determine where you’ve been, and where you’re going on this journey.
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35
No Islands
We were never designed to do life the way our culture has become accustomed to living in dealing with grief, trauma and life’s circumstances. Today, I discuss what happens when we try to do life isolated, “on an island” and how we can find better perspective to rebound quicker and be healthy for our selves and our loved ones.
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34
It’s our Time
So much in the news is pointing to your loved one and our worlds may be changing. As answers and new possibilities come, what does that mean for us who support individuals with autism and related conditions, and what are we going to begin to do about it? Today is about building something new.
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33
No Support – What to do when feeling unsupported
We’ve all felt this way before. Feeling like you’re on your own, and lacking support from a spouse, friends or family? Here’s the MOST important question to ask yourself, to get you feeling unstuck and unsupported.
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32
You must give them this gift…
Communication is the key that unlocks the doors to freedom for your son or daughter with autism or related conditions. Here are a few key ways to teach it and give it.
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31
We’re building something
Your message matters. So does mine. Today is an encouragement on how we can assist each other in building what will be our legacy…
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30
Can dreams that die be resurrected?
There’s a process of seed planting, nurturing and then harvest that can be interrupted by the unexpected. It’s not the end. Sometimes it’s just the beginning.
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29
Let Yes be Ye
The way your loved one communicates how they are “listening” may be surprising – don’t miss it! Remember, they don’t have a baseline for “filler” dialogue so how they listen and respond may surprise you.
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28
Frustration and Compassion – how they work in caretaking
Becoming frustrated in our caretaking for our loved ones with special needs is natural and normal. But do we consider that they may be feeling the same way, but are simply unable to express it? This notion leads to new levels of compassion.
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27
Lemons to Lemonade
You’re needed. If you’ve got a desire to build but you don’t know how – start somewhere. Start here with a few of the suggestions I make for the autism community and beyond. https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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26
Efficiency is sanity
Doing “more” is out. Now it’s about being efficient as a parent, and there are things you must say “no” to that will actually propel you and keep you organized. Here’s how… https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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25
You ARE the Advocate
In even the smallest examples like the one I give here, your job is to advocate daily for your child…and here’s how… https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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24
Pain Point – Loneliness and the need for community
Being honest and identifying our discomfort is the first step to bridging the gap of loneliness and avoiding isolation. https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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23
Taking the time to process pain
https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies Unprocessed emotions have a way of coming up at the most inconvenient times. That’s why it’s important to take the time to process unhealed hurts, disappointments and pains, in order to free us to continue to expand and grow.
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22
Matching words to mindsets
https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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21
You need a sounding board
https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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20
We need each other
Solo parents with special needs children or adults you need to hear, this and we need each other to build community and to fill in the gaps. It’s time! https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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19
End your day this way…
I’m asking you to join me in this end of the day practice for just 30 days to see how it begins to transform our thoughts and the intention behind out days. https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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18
The changes 2025 may bring
This year I believe we can anticipate significant changes in research and a fresh determination to begin to “solve” the puzzle of autism rather than simply talking about it. https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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17
The role of “discipline” in our families with autism
Discipline is something we require more for ourselves sometimes than our children. Here’s why discipline and flexibility will lend to sanity. https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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16
Avoid the post holiday slump
https://www.youtube.com/@FullSpectrumAutismFamilies
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Full Spectrum is a podcast dedicated to supporting and encouraging the earth angels who are parents, family members or care providers of loved ones with Autism. My intention is to create a tribe a tribe and a community where we can share our stories and our real life experiences including the challenges and rewards during each stage of the journey. As the single mom of a 4, and one with a diagnosis of Autism, I’ve been on this journey for 27 years. My experience includes setting up a therapeutic program for children with Autism, and a Community Support based program for adults with Autism and related conditions. I’ve been an advocate for the Autism community for decades and wish to support and encourage families, loved ones and care providers as we dive into the topics with transparency and honesty in order to remind us that we are not alone. We are unique and we are heroes in our own ways.
HOSTED BY
Stephanie Stevens
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