Let’s Plant Houses

What happens when you know something is wrong, but the system keeps telling you to wait? In this episode, author Randi-Lee Bowlaugh shares her journey through autism, parenting, and mental health as she searched for answers for her daughter. From early concerns to years of missed support, her story shows how families often live in the gap between what they know and what systems are ready to provide. Randi-Lee speaks honestly about trusting her instincts, changing doctors, and continuing to ask questions until someone finally listened. She reminds us that parents and caregivers are not just participants in the system. They are problem solvers and leaders who keep going, even when the path is long.

How do you hold on to hope when your child seems lost? Autism, profound autism, parenting, and support are at the heart of this honest conversation with Jillian Simpson-Eisloeffel, Founder of Bobby’s World and Regional Lead for the New York Alliance for Developmental Disabilities. She shares what life looks like when a child has complex needs and when families must step in to create safety and stability at home. Her story helps us see the daily work that often goes unseen. In this episode, Jillian talks about sleepless nights, constant vigilance, and the courage to keep searching for answers when nothing seemed to help. After pushing for deeper medical understanding, she has now begun to see small but powerful glimpses of her son again. Her journey shows how parents become problem solvers when systems fall short, and how persistence can open doors to new possibilities.

What happens when a parent discovers their child—and themselves—share the same diagnosis? J.M. Shaw’s diagnosis changed everything, and helped her see her family’s story in a whole new light. In this episode, fantasy author J.M. Shaw shares her journey raising children with autism and ADHD while discovering her own diagnosis, offering real-life insight into parenting, neurodiversity, family life, and autism support. You’ll hear how lived experience shaped the way she supports her children and how her family found new ways forward when help was hard to find. J.M. also shares how writing fantasy stories and novels became a creative outlet and a powerful way to explore autism, identity, and belonging. Her story offers insight into how families can discover strengths they never knew they had.

What does it really look like to become a “bonus mom” to a child with autism and learn a whole new way to parent? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Wendy Ernzen talks with Dr. Rita Renee about autism parenting, blended family life, and caregiver support. They share an honest conversation about stepping into a parenting role later in life and learning how to support a child with different needs. Rita opens up about meeting her husband, being introduced to his two sons, and learning about autism when her stepson was just seven years old. She shares the tools that made the biggest difference, including routine, patience, advocacy, and creating emotional safety at home. Now, with her son is sixteen and thriving in school, Rita explains how this journey shaped her leadership, deepened her empathy, and reminds families that they are not alone.

What happens when a father turns his family’s biggest daily struggle into a solution that helps other kids learn? In this autism parenting podcast episode of Let’s Find Houses, host Wendy Ernzen sits down with Ron van Til, a dad raising a daughter with profound autism and a son on the autism spectrum. Ron shares his family’s journey through early diagnosis, ABA therapy, speech and OT, sleep deprivation, home safety modifications, and the constant worry about the future that so many autism families quietly carry. That lived experience led Ron and his wife to create the Wiggle Seat, a sensory chair designed to help children with autism sit at the table while still getting the movement their bodies need. Born out of mealtime challenges at home, the Wiggle Seat is now used in ABA clinics, therapy centers, and special education classrooms to help kids stay seated, regulated, and included during learning and connection. This episode blends real-life autism parenting, fear, hope, and innovation, showing how one family’s story is helping children sit, learn, and belong at school and at home.

What happens when life hands you a diagnosis you never expected, and you still choose hope? In this profound autism parenting conversation, host Wendy Ernzen sits down with Clay Boatright to talk about raising twin daughters with intellectual and developmental disabilities and profound autism. Clay shares how early developmental delays led to an Easterseals assessment, why diagnoses mainly matter for getting services, and what it feels like as the gap grows between traditional development and a more unique path. The episode also explores disability advocacy, group home placement, and why respite care and community support matter so much for families. Clay talks openly about how faith helped him manage stress, why he believes happiness is a choice, and how life changed when his daughters found a supportive home and day program so he could focus on being their dad. He also shares insights from his book, God’s Plan, Our Circus, and and the mindset he hopes encourages other parents and caregivers on the disability journey.

What if the biggest fight your family ever faced was simply proving that your sister with Down syndrome should have the life she wants? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, host Wendy Ernzen talks with Franke James about Down syndrome, disability advocacy, and how real disability rights can start at home. Frankie shares the powerful story of her sister Teresa, a joyful artist and author with Down syndrome, and how their family learned early to include her fully, build her strengths, and expect more from the world around her. You’ll hear what went wrong when her siblings tried to place Teresa in long-term care, even though Franke was willing to give her the life she wanted and deserved. Hear about how  Franke and her husband fought back using a capacity assessment, power of attorney, and supported decision making so Teresa could choose where and how she lives, the foundation of Franke’s award-winning book Freeing Teresa. Franke also gives us a sneak peek of the sequel Escape to Lotus Land, the next chapter in Teresa’s beautiful life. This conversation is for parents, siblings, and professionals in the IDD community who want hope, practical insight, and a reminder to presume competence.

What if your non-speaking child with autism understood everything and was just waiting for a way to share it? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism, communication, and Spelling to Communicate, or SC2, as Lori Rogers shares the journey of helping her son Craig, a non-speaker on the autism spectrum, find his voice. Lori tells how everything changed the day Craig spelled “black holes” on a letter board. She also shares the early years of losing words, fighting for services, raising funds, and believing deeply in her son’s potential. Lori explains how S2C opened the door to friendships, college classes, creative writing, and Craig planning his own future. She also talks about her business, Positive Activity, where she and her husband Neil share science based activities to increase happiness, boost positivity, and attract abundance in both personal and professional life. Lori’s story offers real hope for families and professionals who love or work with non-speaking children everywhere. Listen now!

How might growing up with a sister with autism shape your life? In this episode, you’ll hear a powerful look at profound autism, caregiving, and family as Dr. DeShanna Reed shares her experience as the youngest sibling to Adrian. She explains how finding the right care and community shaped their journey and what it felt like when Adrian moved into a group home. Dr. Reed also talks about the caregivers who became “found family” and the tender moment her family had to explain that their dad was gone. She shares how stepping into the caregiver role as an adult changed her life and why she is creating a book for siblings to help them navigate the legal, financial, and emotional parts of caregiving. If you support a loved one with IDD, this conversation will help you feel seen and supported.

What happens to my child when I’m gone? That question pushed Kristina Cope to imagine a new future for her son Blake, who has profound autism and catatonia. In this episode, Kristina shares how she rebuilt her life in Michigan after her children’s father passed away and how that journey inspired her to create Flawless Farms, a community for adults with high support needs. Kristina talks about early morning routines, her long fight to access ABA in the early days, and the preschool teacher who reminded her that her son was first a little boy who needed love. She also explains the hard reality families face when planning for adulthood and why there are so few real options. If you want to understand what this road feels like for families, this conversation is for you.

What if curiosity mattered more than judgment in parenting? In this episode, you’ll hear a real look at parenting, autism, and family life as Julie Kratz shares her journey raising her youngest daughter, Dylan, who is on the autism spectrum. Julie talks honestly about the early developmental differences they noticed and how they worked to find the right school and support. She also shares the everyday challenges, the surprising joys, and the lessons she has learned about patience, empathy, and celebrating small wins. Julie also talks about her new book, We Want You: An Allyship Guide for People with Power. She explains how anyone can become a better ally at work, in the community, and with friends and family. Her message is simple: small actions and real curiosity can create meaningful change. Listen now!

What is it really like to raise a child with profound autism who needs 24/7 support? This episode explores profound autism, caregiving, and the real challenges families face every day. Guest Ben Duff shares his family’s honest and powerful story. Ben talks about the early signs they noticed, the emotional process of getting a diagnosis, and the daily work of managing medications, therapy, and changing behaviors through different stages of life. He also opens up about moments of crisis, hard care decisions, residential program options, and the ongoing need to advocate within a complex system. Ben offers simple and practical guidance for families just starting this journey. He shares how to build a strong support network, find resources that fit your child, and define what “success” means for your own family. This episode gives parents, caregivers, and anyone curious a clear and heartfelt look at the resilience involved in raising a child with profound autism.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, you meet Michael Pereira, a husband, father, and advocate who helps families with autism and parenting support. Michael shares how his family first noticed signs with his son Christian and gives parents real hope so they feel less alone in their own autism journey. Michael talks about the early days when home life changed fast, from skipping restaurants to unplugging blenders, and how friends and family had to learn and grow with them. He also explains why he created The Autism Voyage, a helpful platform built to give parents clear and trustworthy information. Today it includes more than 90 practical blog posts, a national directory of services, and a newsletter that reaches over 2,000 families. The Autism Voyage blends education, guidance, and real stories that help parents feel supported and understood. If you want honesty, hope, and simple tools that make this journey easier, this is the episode to press play on.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about congenital heart defects, medical parenting, and family resilience as Sarah Boes shares the moment that changed everything. Sarah Boes is a nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, author, and “heart mom”. Late in her pregnancy, a routine scan revealed that her unborn daughter had several complex heart defects. That single appointment pulled her family into a world of specialists, emergency planning, and love stretched to its very edges. Sarah opens up about the shock, the fear, and the quiet moments in the hospital that reshaped her understanding of what it means to hope. As Sarah tells her story, you will hear how she and her husband learned to navigate surgeries, uncertainty, and the emotional weight of becoming parents inside a medical crisis. She speaks with honesty about grief, grit, and the unexpected ways community rises around you when life falls apart. This conversation holds moments that will make you hold your breath and others that will lift your spirit. It is a story about the heart in every sense of the word.

What happens when the services your child needs don’t exist yet? Judi Uttal faced that challenge when her son Josh was diagnosed with autism at age four. She reflects on the early challenges, including the lack of autism awareness and resources in the 1990s, and how her early advocacy, community support—including a pilot program in Irvine and later the Orange County Asperger Support Group—and determination helped Josh thrive in film production. Judi now runs the Orange County Asperger Support Group, helping teens and adults with level one autism improve their quality of life. She also founded the Autism in Entertainment (AIE) Workgroup, a California-based initiative that increases employment opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum in animation, film, and gaming. Through conferences, creator community meetings, and career resources, AIE connects autistic individuals with opportunities in the entertainment industry. Listen to her fascinating story!

What’s it really like raising two kids on totally different parts of the autism spectrum, especially when you’re on the spectrum yourself? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Wendy Ernzen chats with Eileen Lamb, a mom, author, photographer, and all-around autism advocate who knows the ups and downs firsthand. Eileen shares stories about her oldest, Charlie, who has profound autism, and her younger son Jude, who has level 1 autism. From the early diagnosis days to battling for the right school and figuring out what actually works, she’s got plenty of honest, real talk about what parenting looks like in her world. Eileen is the founder of The Autism Cafe blog, author of All Across The Spectrum and Be The One, and the Senior Director of Social Media and Marketing at Autism Speaks. She’s also a podcast host and photographer based in Austin, Texas, where she juggles life with children. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, or just curious, this episode is packed with practical insights and relatable moments.

What would you do if the medicine that saved your child’s life was still considered illegal by the federal government? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I talk with Michelle Wright, a mother and advocate whose adult son Ian has profound autism. Michelle shares how medical cannabis changed everything for her family, easing Ian’s symptoms and improving his quality of life after decades of struggle. But while some states allow its use, federal law still stands in the way of research, access, and Ian’s ability to live more independently. Michelle shares why she’s speaking out and how she’s working to legalize medical cannabis for everyone who needs it. Listen to her powerful story of hope, advocacy, and change.

How do you know when to trust your gut over everyone else’s advice about your special needs child? On this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about Down syndrome support, school advocacy, and special needs parenting with Angela O’Brien. Angela’s story will resonate with every special needs parent who’s ever felt lost, overwhelmed, or told their child “doesn’t belong.” When Casey was born with Down syndrome 21 years ago, Angela had no roadmap and no community. But through connecting with other families and trusting her instincts, she became a trailblazer who literally changed her school district’s policies. Angela fought to get Casey into their neighborhood school when administrators said it was impossible – and won. But her story doesn’t end there. Years later, Angela made one of the hardest decisions a parent can make: admitting that what she fought so hard for wasn’t working anymore. When Casey developed anxiety in fifth grade, Angela had to set aside her pride and find a different path. Now, with Casey thriving at 21, Angela channels her experiences into helping other families through her organizing business “Your Space Reclaimed” and her podcast “Especially Organized,” both designed specifically for special needs families. This episode is packed with practical advice about advocacy, building community, and knowing when to change course – even when it goes against everything you thought you believed.

How do you co-parent your special needs child after divorce? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism parenting, co parenting, and family resilience as John Goralski shares his powerful story. When John’s son Jack was diagnosed with autism, it didn’t just change their understanding of Jack—it changed everything. The stress of navigating specialists, therapies, and an uncertain future contributed to John and Jack’s mom divorcing when Jack was young. But instead of letting that destroy their family, John discovered something powerful: the difference between calling someone “my ex” and calling them “Jack’s mom.” This simple shift in perspective became the foundation for one of the most beautiful co-parenting stories you’ll ever hear. In this episode, John shares how he learned to help his nonverbal son process complex emotions, the moment he realized his child was trying to protect his sick mother, and how they became true partners in navigating life together. Now, with Jack at 22 and transitioning out of school, John has written “Parenting in Crisis: Finding Peace and Purpose in a Special Needs Home” to help other families find their way through the darkness. This conversation will give you hope, practical strategies, and remind you that sometimes our biggest challenges become our greatest growth opportunities.

What would you do if your child was being sent out of the classroom every single day in kindergarten? On this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism parenting, early signs, and family advocacy as I sit down with Jordan Hendrix to hear her family’s transformative autism journey. What began with daily classroom removals and judgment from others evolved into a powerful story of discovery, advocacy, and hope. From the early signs they missed as new parents to eventually finding the perfect micro school where her 8-year-old son Asher can thrive, Jordan shares it all. She also opens up about her own experience as a neurodivergent adult with ADHD and the sense of relief that came with Asher’s Level 1 autism diagnosis, which opened the door to life-changing resources and therapies. This episode is packed with practical tips—from ABA and equestrian therapy to surprising tools like chiropractic care. Jordan’s insights on self-advocacy, sensory-friendly spaces, and building community offer real hope and guidance for families navigating autism.

What would you do if doctors told you your 7-year-old would “never progress past second grade” and belong in a group home? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about epilepsy awareness, disability advocacy, and family resilience as Mike Knox shares his powerful story.  Mike thought his world was ending when his 2-year-old daughter Vivian had her first seizure and flatlined at the hospital. What followed were years of failed medications, schools that refused to help, bullying from classmates making fake seizure videos, and doctors who said she’d never progress beyond second grade. But Mike refused to accept that future for his daughter. After five grueling years and a leap of faith with a vagus nerve stimulator, a device the size of a silver dollar, everything changed. Today, Vivian is 18, seizure-free for eight years, and preparing for college with dreams of film set design. But Mike’s fight isn’t over. He’s working to change state laws in California because epilepsy affects 3 million Americans yet has virtually no legal protections. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate, this episode will open your eyes to a community that desperately needs support.

How might having a child on the autism spectrum change a marriage? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism parenting, fatherhood, and neurodiversity when I sit down with Paul Carroll, founder of Autism Dadvocate, a podcast and community he’s built for autism dads. Paul opens up about parenting his 18-year-old son Vaughn, who’s on the autism spectrum. He walks us through those early “micro moments” like playground movements, Vaughn’s fascination with Arabic alphabets, tough sensory moments with hand dryers. It’s these smaller observations that eventually helped him understand his son’s beautiful neurodivergent mind. Paul and I also get talk about how special needs parenting reshapes marriages. How roles can become entrenched, why communication becomes absolutely critical, and how parents find themselves juggling being both partners and co-therapists. We also dig into the overlooked perspective of fathers in the autism community and how Paul’s own feelings of isolation drove him to create this supportive online space for dads. Come hear Paul’s story!

What happens when a school principal who’s worked with autistic students for years becomes a grandparent to a child on the spectrum? This week on Let’s Plant Houses my guest is Jennifer Kaufman, author of “Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk.” Jennifer brings a unique view to autism support, special education, family advocacy, and neurodiversity because she has lived this journey both as an educator and as a grandmother to a seven year old with autism. What stands out most is Jennifer’s honesty about how her professional experience could not prepare her for the emotional side of being a grandparent. She shares practical ways to create welcoming spaces, the value of following the parents’ lead, and how she learned to shift from trying to fix autism to celebrating neurodivergent minds. This episode is full of guidance and heart. It is a must listen for grandparents, parents, and anyone who wants to better support families raising autistic children.

How can growing up alongside autism shape not just your childhood, but your entire life’s calling? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism sibling experiences, early intervention, and family support as Katie Bullock shares the beautiful complexity of growing up as the middle child and only girl, with a younger brother who has profound autism. Katie remembers everything from the frightening Father’s Day when three year old Michael disappeared, to crashing his therapy sessions because they looked like fun play dates, to watching him become the beloved “mayor” of her school. She reflects on Michael’s honest way of moving through the world, the laughter he brought to their family, and the challenges they faced, like missing soccer games and adding extra locks to keep him safe. These moments shaped Katie’s heart and eventually led her to a career in early intervention and speech language pathology, where she now helps other families find their own path. Katie shares helpful insights about supporting siblings, understanding that not every sibling will become a caregiver, and finding joy in a child’s interests, even something as simple as lining up blocks. Her story offers validation, hope, and a reminder that the autism journey can be full of connection, growth, and unexpected joy.

Ever wonder why getting disability services feels like you need a PhD in bureaucracy? One dad figured out the system and created roadmaps for all 50 states. This week on Let’s Plant Houses I talk with Eric Jorgensen, a military dad who was suddenly left to navigate his son’s autism journey alone after losing his wife in 2012. From an 18 month battle for housing placement to dangerous behavioral incidents, Eric shares honest stories that reveal just how broken the system can be. Instead of giving up, Eric turned his frustration into action by building clear roadmaps that help families understand Medicaid waivers, benefits, and the supports they need. His practical tips, including what to say and what not to say to caseworkers, offer real guidance for parents, siblings, and professionals. This conversation is packed with tools, hope, and advocacy that truly makes a difference.

Interested in improving educational outcomes for all children of all abilities? In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about inclusion, special education, autism advocacy, and early intervention as I sit down with Heather Eckner, an education professional and dedicated mother of two children with disabilities. Heather shares her family’s experiences navigating early intervention, finding the right school settings, and advocating for her children’s needs within the education system. She also reflects on her own path from classroom teacher to a leader in the autism advocacy space, sharing her work with the Autism Alliance of Michigan and her recent success helping move statewide literacy legislation forward. Tune in for an honest and inspiring look at what it takes to support children with disabilities in school and beyond.

What does it take to create an inclusive playground? In this episode, I sit down with AnnMarie Ottoy to explore her incredible journey – from navigating her son’s early diagnoses to becoming a fierce advocate for inclusion. She shares how her family turned challenges into opportunities, creating a supportive environment that uplifts not just their son but now their entire community. AnnMarie also takes us behind the scenes of her volunteer work in Clinton Township, Michigan, where she helped bring an inclusive playground to life – a space where all children can play, belong, and thrive. Tune in for an inspiring conversation advocacy and the power of inclusive communities!

How can you create a safe, independent future for your child with special needs? Every parent wants to see their child grow into a happy, independent adult, but for families raising children with special needs, that path can feel uncertain. In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about independent living, special needs housing, and family advocacy as I sit down with Kathy Remski, a mother who has walked this journey herself. Kathy shares her family’s story, from early intervention and facing challenges to finding creative ways to support her child’s growing independence. We also explore SAIL, Solutions for Adult Interdependent Living, an organization she helped create to help families build sustainable housing and support systems for their adult children with disabilities. Kathy offers real insight and hope for families planning for the future. If you want practical ideas, encouragement, and a clearer path forward, this episode is for you.

How do you find joy while raising a child with profound autism? In this episode, Julie Bullock, a mother of three, opens up about her family’s journey with her son, who has profound or severe autism. She reflects on their experience, from the initial diagnosis and the flurry of therapies to embracing acceptance and discovering joy in the present moment. Julie discusses the evolving understanding of autism, the importance of community support, and the crucial role of self-care for parents. Now that her son is an adult, she discusses the need for inclusive housing options and the shift in perspective from “fixing” children to celebrating their unique strengths and supporting their individual paths to fulfillment. There’s so much to learn from Julie’s incredible journey – listen now!

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism parenting, early intervention, and communication support as I sit down with Julia Dapkus, a dedicated mother and advocate. Julia shares her family’s journey with her daughter Isabelle, who has autism, and the challenges they faced while navigating early developmental delays. She explains how early intervention and strong communication skills changed their path and gave Isabelle the support she needed. Julia also talks about her inspiration for founding Communication is Key AAC, a Michigan nonprofit that helps people with complex communication needs access the right tools. Through scholarships, training, and important resources like communication devices, software, literacy materials, and playground communication boards, the organization is breaking barriers and empowering families and schools. Tune in to hear a powerful story about advocacy, communication, and hope.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs fitness, inclusive sports, and family advocacy as I sit down with Todd Turner, the founder of Team GUTS. Todd shares his family’s journey raising his daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism, and how their experiences shaped his mission. He explains why fitness, movement, and community support can make a powerful difference for people with special needs. Todd opens up about the challenges they faced, the early intervention that helped his daughter, and the triumphs that inspired Team GUTS to grow. This heartfelt conversation is filled with lessons, hope, and real encouragement.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs parenting, caregiver support, and resilience as I sit down with Jess Ronne to hear her powerful story. Jess is an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and longtime advocate for families raising children with complex needs. She shares her journey raising her son Lucas, who has special needs including profound autism, and the emotional and practical challenges their family faced, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband. Jess reflects on finding love again, growing her family, and helping Lucas move into supported housing as an adult while still caring for her own well being. She also talks about her new book, Caregiving with Grit and Grace, and the creation of The Lucas Project, which gives caregivers crucial resources and respite. This heartfelt conversation shines a light on strength, community, and the deep love that carries families forward.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about neurodiversity, parenting support, and mental health as I sit down with Sarah Raphael, a mom of two young children. Sarah shares her family’s journey raising what she lovingly calls her neurospicy kids and how she learned to advocate for them in school. She also talks about the importance of self care, caring for her own mental health, and finding connection through groups like Extra Lucky Moms. Tune in for a warm conversation about support, advocacy, and growing as a family.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about sibling caregiving, developmental disabilities, and future planning as Lee Ackerman shares his honest experience growing up with his sister Gretchen. Lee reflects on their childhood and his role now as her lifelong guardian. He also explains the work he does as the leader of an advocacy, planning, and guardianship nonprofit, offering clear insight into what happens when family caregivers are no longer able to provide support. Lee shares thoughtful guidance, personal stories, and the lessons he has learned along the way. Join us for a candid conversation about family, responsibility, and navigating the complex world of guardianship with care and compassion.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism parenting, early intervention, and special education as Lauren Christilaw shares her story about her young son Henry. Lauren reflects on the challenges of welcoming a new baby during the pandemic while noticing developmental delays and pushing for evaluation, diagnosis, and services. She explains what she learned while advocating for autism support, school services, and the right team for Henry. Lauren also talks about the school system, blended classrooms, data driven goals, and the importance of clear documentation in an IEP. Join us for an empowering conversation about parenting a child with special needs and finding the strength to stand up for the people we love.

In this heartwarming episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Theresa Gutierrez shares the beautiful story of growing up with her brother, Peter, who has Down syndrome. With a perfect mix of humor and love, Theresa reflects on the brave choice her parents made to embrace Peter’s life, defying the expert advice of the time. But that’s just the beginning—Theresa takes us on a tour of their incredible relationship and the joy Peter brings everyone around him. From his moments in the Special Olympics to the incredible community that has rallied around him and his family, this episode is a celebration of family and sibling love. Listen now!

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism friendly travel, special needs vacation planning, and Disney trips as I sit down with Christa Andrews from Practically Perfect Vacations. Christa is a Certified Autism Travel Professional and a specialist in Disney and Universal resorts. She explains how she helps families plan the vacations they dream about, even when special needs make travel feel out of reach. Christa shares how her training helps her support individuals on the autism spectrum so they can enjoy a magical, low stress vacation. Tune in to learn how your next family getaway can be easier, more enjoyable, and possible for everyone.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about autism support, special needs community building, and family advocacy as I sit down with Mireya Martinez, a single mother raising two children, including her daughter Bianca who has autism. Mireya shares how she turned her love and dedication into a mission to help others. Her nonprofit, Just 4 Me, was created to make sure no young adult with special needs or disabilities is left behind. Mireya explains how she built a space where friendships can grow, social skills can improve, and every person can feel like they belong. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about creating community, finding purpose, and supporting young adults with special needs through connection and care.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs parenting, medical challenges in children, and family support as Kim Cascardo shares her son Enzo’s story. Enzo has faced serious health issues since infancy, and although he does not have a formal diagnosis, his symptoms are similar to Leigh Syndrome. Kim explains how their family has learned to face each new challenge with courage, love, and steady support for Enzo’s ongoing medical needs. Kim shares the wisdom she has gained along the way and the strength that holds their family together. Tune in for a powerful conversation about hope, resilience, and caring for a child with complex health needs.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about Down syndrome support, family advocacy, and community inclusion as David Buckley joins us to share his family’s story. David opens up about his son Jack’s Down syndrome diagnosis and the new world it brought into their lives. He explains how their family learned, grew, and found strong support through groups like the Miracle League, Gigi’s Playhouse, and Angel’s Place. David reflects on how their mission to build a good life for Jack has also helped many others in the disability community. Join us for the last episode of the season as we hear their inspiring journey and the impact these organizations have had on their family.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses we talk about special needs planning, autism support, and caregiver tools as we sit down with Joel and Debbie Pearlman, the creators of the Dani Plan. Their idea grew from the needs of their eldest daughter, Dani, who has autism. The Dani Plan gives families a secure and organized way to store all the important information needed to care for a loved one with special needs, making daily caregiving and long term planning easier. Joel and Debbie share their family’s journey, the challenges they faced, and why they felt called to build a tool that brings peace of mind to other families. Tune in to hear their mission to simplify caregiving and help parents plan for the future with confidence.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about autism support, autism resources, disability services, and community inclusion as I sit down with Rachelle Vartanian, the founder of the Living and Learning Center in Northville, Michigan. Rachelle shares how her journey began when her son received an autism diagnosis and she saw the lack of strong autism programs and family support. Using her training in special education and her passion for helping people with disabilities, she worked to create new options for her son and for many families in need of meaningful services. She explains how small social skills sessions at a public library grew into the Living and Learning Center, a unique space offering therapy, social programs, work based learning, and community engagement for people with disabilities. Tune in to hear Rachelle’s inspiring story, her focus on autism employment and life skills, and her vision for the future.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about disability advocacy, full inclusion, and family support as I sit down with Janice Fialka, a nationally recognized lecturer and author. Janice shares her family’s origin story and the early dreams of her son Micah, who was born with a cognitive impairment. She explains how Micah followed a pioneering path toward complete inclusion through school, college, work, and community life. Janice reflects on the challenges they faced, the breakthroughs they celebrated, and the deep impact Micah’s journey has had on the disability community. Their story shows the power of strong advocacy, high expectations, and believing in every person’s right to belong.

Join me on Let’s Plant Houses for a heartfelt conversation with Benji and Sarah as they reflect on their family’s extraordinary journey with their daughter, Ellah. Born with Coffin-Siris Syndrome (CSS) as well as a rare defect, Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum (ACC), Ellah faces unique health and developmental hurdles. Yet her resilience and push to be understood has created remarkable communication breakthroughs. Benji and Sarah delve into this story and more as well as their own incredible advocacy that has brought awareness of this rare condition to our local communities and beyond.

We covered a lot of ground with the first nine episodes of Let’s Plant Houses. On this 10th episode, I am a sharing a Top 10 List of resources mentioned in our stories in just 15 minutes. This episode is perfect for parents, caregivers, and professionals who are looking to learn about what’s available in our local area and why they might want to reach out to learn more.

Join us on Let’s Plant Houses when I sit down with Tracie Kelly, a savvy and resourceful mother and entrepreneur. Tracie discusses pivotal moments including her son’s diagnosis of autism to the creation of his thriving business Expedition Soaps, the completion of his college degree, his well traveled passport, and his future just beginning. In turn, Tracie has used her own lived experience to launch the IEP Advantage, a groundbreaking resource that equips parents with the knowledge and confidence to advocate effectively for their children and special education needs.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about autism employment, disability entrepreneurship, and family resilience as we sit down with Rhonda Gelstein to hear her powerful story. After her son Tyler finished high school and a trade program, he still could not find a job, even with his advanced degree. Instead of giving up, Rhonda helped Tyler turn his simple chore of returning bottles into Tyler’s Bottle Service, a small business that now serves all of Oakland County and has been running for 12 years. Rhonda shares the challenges they faced, the wins that kept them going, and the lessons they learned along the way. Their journey is a hopeful example of creativity, hard work, and autism employment done with dignity and purpose.

Join us on this episode of Let’s Plant Houses when we sit down with Lisa. Lisa talks about Shay, her daughter with complex special needs who passed away and the amazing legacy she has left. Come learn about Shay’s extraordinary life, the remarkable imprint she left on others, and the inspiring work Lisa is now doing in our communities.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about special needs and higher education as we sit down with Julie, a remarkable parent walking through a unique journey. She shares how her family faced a special needs diagnosis while her son was working toward his college degree. Julie explains the challenges, the learning curve, and the push to make sure her son had the support he needed for a successful college experience. Her story shows the power of courage, family advocacy, and steady commitment. It is a hopeful look at what is possible when families and schools work together to build an inclusive path through higher education.

In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, we talk about inclusion, IDD employment, and disability advocacy as we sit down with Kelly Rockwell, a passionate parent and community leader. She shares how her journey with her daughter who has Down syndrome inspired her to use creativity and ingenuity to build a coffee shop that hires people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Kelly explains how this idea grew into a social enterprise that brings real opportunity and dignity to adults with IDD. Her story shows the power of inclusion, family love, and community support. It is a hopeful look at what can happen when parents and advocates work to build a better future for people with disabilities.