Awesome Nonspeakers

Tools That Helped Me Have the Courage to Continue

I share how I processed a challenging experience in May 2026 after someone in my church raised concerns about my work communicating with nonspeakers, and how I found the courage to keep offering this service while being open to my leaders’ counsel (including changing what I call it). I focus on five tools that helped me stay in love, peace, and courage:0 life coaching to sort through my thoughts emotional clearing through allowing feelings, journaling, walking and talking, essential oils, visualizations, and the Connection Code nervous system regulation through awareness, the safety sequence, meditation, and music prayer (personal and from a small trusted circle, including nonspeakers and their families) and being listened to, which helped me feel heard and reminded me of the power of truly listening to our kids. (I just kind of threw in the story about my son getting kidnapped in Mexico - it's ok, he escaped and is safe and healthy... here is that story) Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter to get access to the private podcast and additional episodes mentioned - by clicking here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

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Praying Every Step of the Way

Today I share an inside look at how my faith and prayer have guided the work I choose to do. From my early years as a doula and childbirth educator to life coaching and my current focus supporting nonspeakers and their families. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter to get access to the private podcast and additional episodes - by clicking here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Parenting a Nonspeaking Child: Walking the Labyrinth, Not Running a Race

I talk about the longing to see farther down the road as a parent —especially when you’re parenting a nonspeaking child and wondering if your child will be okay, if therapy is helping, or if you’re making the right choices. I contrast parenting as a race (with pressure, comparison, and “finish lines”) and as a maze (with anxiety about wrong turns and needing to find the perfect route) with the idea of walking a labyrinth: a path with twists and turns but no dead ends and no wrong turns. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

2 Announcements and Tolerating Discomfort!

I’m have an end date for my summer sabbatical (May–September) I'm returning to a more consistent schedule in October. I finally figured out what I am changing the name of Spirit-to-Spirit Sessions to... I also share an important thing to consider when trying new things... tolerating discomfort. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers You can sign up for sessions at awesomeautismtools.com

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Practice Tools Before You Need Them

In this episode, I share why it’s so important to practice tools ahead of time—especially practicing feeling safe when you actually are safe—so you can access that state more automatically when you’re triggered. I briefly introduce the “safety sequence” with three questions: Am I safe? Do I feel safe? Is my body relaxed? I talk about how parents of children on the spectrum may sometimes not be safe and often do not feel safe, especially with aggresive or self-injurious situations. For you it is even more important to practice these tools! I also recommend Finding Joy in the Journey episode 231, “The Power of Love Over Fear.” Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

The Safety Sequence: A Nervous System Tool for You!

I’m excited to share that I signed up for an advanced nervous system training this fall, and while family life is busy I’m also feeling unusually still with work. I wanted to share a tool I’ve learned from my teacher this summer - called the safety sequence: first ask, “Am I safe?” (and if the answer is no, make choices to get safe), then ask, “Do I feel safe?” even when you are physically safe you might not FEEL safe. and finally relax your body to help it feel safe. Two ways to relax are the rag doll (going limp) and the physiological sigh (in, in, out). I’ve been practicing this 1–3 times a day and have seen how it helps me stay present, regulate before hard moments, and handle conversations better. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Clearing Resistance and Guilt Around Spelling Practice - Coaching Session

I share a life coaching with emotional clearing session with a mother of a nonspeaking child who uses spelling. She offered to do a session with me recording it, so you can hear what a session with me looks like and try the short visualizations along with us. She describes a heaviness whenever she passes their spelling area, plus guilt about not being consistent enough, not being patient enough, and feeling like she’s failing her son. We explore how transitions, physical prompting, and the need to be calm and present make spelling feel uniquely effortful compared to other household tasks. Then using simple visualizations we clear some of the emotions and then create some new positive thoughts and emotions. Feel free to listen and have the intention of clearing any similar feelings or thoughts you may have. And if it resonates, accept the positive replacement ones. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

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Calm Currents and Turbulence: A River's Lesson

I talk about rivers as unpredictable, with calm stretches, turbulent rapids, and unexpected obstacles, and how being present on a river trip helped me be present with myself. My trip began with two and a half days of peaceful, mostly still rowing, then shifted into exciting rapids on days three and four before returning to calmer water. I relate this to life and relationships, using boundaries and “life jacket” self-care tools, and I share how unexpected “rapids” recently showed up in my Awesome Autism Tools business, helping me refine how I explain my work while I take part of the summer off and plan fall studies in nervous system support. You can hear my episode about the "poop box" over on the Finding Joy in the Journey podcast. Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Finding My Path Forward

I am taking the summer and maybe even the fall off. If you want to keep getting tips and tools that can help - Follow me on Finding Joy in the Journey Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter to stay updated on my Fall plans - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

My Journey: M&M Era and Beyond

Want a little more of me in your ear? Follow along at Finding Joy in the Journey Podcast Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Healing From the Inside Out: How Cellular Healing, Mold, and Parasites May Be the Missing Piece in Your Child's Autism Journey

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jeff Knight, a Utah-based chiropractor who has worked since 2014 with families of children on the autism spectrum, largely as a coach helping parents with cellular healing and detoxification support. We discuss how overwhelming a new diagnosis can feel and why it helps to clarify your health philosophy (allopathic vs. holistic) while staying open-minded and finding trusted people to talk to. What if your child's symptoms aren't just "autism" — but signs of an overwhelmed body trying to heal? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Jeff Knight shares how cellular healing, detoxification, and addressing hidden stressors like mold, parasites, and generational toxicity can transform the lives of kids on the spectrum — and the families who love them. 💛 You can learn more and connect with Dr. Knight here. https://healthempoweredfamilies.com/ (Sign up for a FREE training + book a $37 consultation) Or here https://truenorthchiro.com/ (For adults & virtual wellness support) 💌 Loved This Episode? If this conversation resonated with you, please: ⭐ Leave a rating & review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify 📲 Share this episode with a fellow autism parent who needs to hear it 💬 Tag us on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers with your biggest takeaway Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. You will gain free access to the private podcast, get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

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Joybubbles: The Sundance Film That Touched My Heart

This week I share about a documentary I saw at Sundance called Joybubbles, The film follows Joybubbles, a man born blind who learned to whistle into the telephone to make free calls in the 1950s and 60s as a “phone freak,” later working for the phone company and living independently, including in a high-rise apartment he’d long dreamed about. He describes a childhood near-death experience involving “bubbles of love,” and how nonspeakers have described similar “love bubbles.” Later, he watched Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood archives to heal. Near the end of his life he created a phone-based “podcast” of joyful recordings people could call, then reach him personally for support. The screening’s audio description also taught me new ways to make movies more accessible for blind loved ones and reinforced how essential communication and being heard are, especially for nonspeakers. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. If you are curious about working with me, visit here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Madison (a nonspeaker) Thoughts About the Hill and More

In this special episode, I interview Madison, a nonspeaking communicator who shares her thoughts by spelling on a letter board with the support of her communication partner. At times, Madison also says some of the words she spells. You may hear her communication partner say the words that Madison has spelled, and I’ve chosen to leave the interview unedited so you can experience her communication as it happened. I’ll also share a video version on YouTube for those who want to see the spelling process in action, along with a transcript so you can easily see/hear Madison’s responses to my questions… you can access both at this link: https://awesomeautismtools.com/madison-thoughts-about-the-hill/ Madison says spelling is rewarding because it lets her express her thoughts and feelings. We discuss “the Hill,” which Madison says she knew before the Telepathy Tapes. And we also cover a lot of other fascinating topics as well! Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. If you are curious about working with me, visit here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

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Opening Minds: Laine and Madi's Journey

In part one of this episode, I interview Laine about her journey as Madi’s communication partner. She shares how they first met at church when Madi was a child. Then later reconnected when Madi’s mom reached out, and the divine timing of that. I loved hearing about her rewarding moments and challenging moments as they work together and how they help each other. Come back next week to hear from Madi! Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. If you are curious about working with me, visit here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

How Grounding and Shielding Can Transform Your Family's Dynamics

Join me as I delve into the transformative practices of grounding and shielding, essential tools for families navigating autism. Learn how these techniques can help you and your children stay calm, regulated, and emotionally balanced. From personal experiences to client stories, I'll show you how grounding and shielding can make a significant impact on your daily life. If you would like a simple tool to help you feel more calm, grounded, and protected, be sure to check out my free grounding and shielding class. It is easy, practical, and something you can start using right away. Want to stay connected? Come sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter so you don’t miss new podcast episodes, free classes, and other helpful tools I share along the way. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

Dannah’s Passion: Transforming Lives One Letter at a Time

In this episode, I welcome Dannah, a passionate spelling to communicate practitioner who shares her journey from working with autistic individuals in her youth to becoming an official practitioner today. Donna discusses the intriguing world of non-speakers and introduces the groundbreaking method of spelling to communicate, which helps non-speakers express themselves by pointing to letters. She also shares rewarding and challenging moments from her work and offers valuable insights and resources for anyone interested in this innovative communication method. 00:47 Dannah Discovering the Speller Community 01:56 Becoming a Practitioner 03:06 Challenges and Rewards in the Speller Community 07:08 Working with Sheridan 13:57 Insights on Motor Planning and Communication 18:44 Final Thoughts and Resources Thanks for listening today! Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers Sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. If you are curious about working with me, visit here. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

The Quiet Power of Everyday Love: Smiles in the Hallway

In this heartfelt episode, discover the profound impact of simple acts of love and kindness seen through the touching experience of a nonspeaker, Danny. Learn how small gestures, like a smile or a wave, can make someone feel seen and valued. Experience a guided visualization to spread this light of love and transform both the giver and the receiver. 00:00 The Power of Everyday Love 00:27 Danny's Story: A Glimpse into School Life 02:13 Bryson's Impact: Small Acts of Kindness 03:56 The Ripple Effect of Love 04:18 Guided Visualization: Spreading Love 06:36 Final Thoughts: Be the Light Curious about working with me? Sign up for a free call to see if we are a good fit. Follow me on Instagram @awesomenonspeakers

The Power of Shifting from Need to Want

Understanding the difference between 'want' and 'need' can transform our interactions and reduce stress. In this episode, learn how to make this crucial shift in mindset, whether in parenting or daily activities, for a smoother, more peaceful life experience. I share personal stories and tips to help you apply this powerful concept in your own lives. 02:36 Real-Life Examples of Want vs. Need 06:08 Higher Stakes: Family and Faith 07:36 Helping Non-Speakers and Dietary Challenges 10:26 Practical Exercises and Safety Considerations 15:02 Conclusion and Call to Action I invite you to sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. Then you will gain free access to the private podcast feed to get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesome_autism_tools

Embracing Change with Flexibility

Join us in this episode where I explore the power of flexibility when life doesn't go as planned. Sharing personal stories and practical tips, I delve into how embracing change can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth. Learn how to rethink setbacks and navigate life's detours with curiosity and grace. 00:00 Introduction to Flexibility 01:04 Big Plans and Unexpected Changes 03:32 Embracing Change with Flexibility 04:05 Stories of Flexibility 07:50 Making Conscious Choices 09:32 The Power of Flow and Flexibility 12:46 Conclusion: Flexibility in Life's Journey I invite you to sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. Then you will gain free access to the private podcast feed to get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesome_autism_tools

Harnessing the Power of the Fantastic Four: Moving Up the Vibrational Scale

In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of the Fantastic Four curiosity, courage, neutrality, and flexibility. Learn how these powerful tools can help you navigate challenging emotions and foster a more mindful and compassionate approach to parenting. Discover practical steps and actionable advice to move from lower vibrational states to higher ones, cultivating a balanced, peaceful family environment. Please sign up for my Very Awesome Friends Newsletter - by clicking here. Then you will gain free access to the private podcast feed to get extra in-depth episodes, visualizations, etc. - as well as other awesome bonuses. Follow me on Instagram @awesome_autism_tools

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