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Rockin the Difference

Chandra Neal/Single Mom/Special Needs Mom/Special Needs Sports Program Board Member

Hello There! Welcome to Rockin the Difference, a podcast meant to share the experiences and information with those on their journey in the special needs world. I am your host, Chandra Neal, a mom of a young adult with special needs.

My intent is to create a community where we can connect, be real and share in the humor and the tears, challenges and triumphs of what it’s like traveling down this path that is so unique as a special needs parent.

Together, we can encourage and support each other as we are all Rockin the Difference!

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20 episodes
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Avg 37 min
English

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S2 · E33
Saturday · 31 min
Episode 33: Nashville: Big Breakthroughs and a Whole Lot of Heart
Nashville was more than just a fun getaway for Ryan and me. It was a trip filled with laughter, new experiences, unexpected breakthroughs, and some pretty special reminders of just how much growth can happen when we step outside our comfort zones. In this special episode of Rockin' the Difference, Ryan joins me as we talk about our Nashville adventure, visiting dear friends, and some moments that were especially meaningful. We talk about Ryan's bathroom breakthrough (yes, even going on an airplane!), navigating an unfamiliar home independently, and the confidence that comes from trying something new. We also share plenty of laughs about Ryan's unforgettable personality, his amazing calendrical savant abilities, and the many hearts he touched along the way. As a mom, watching your child grow in ways you once wondered were possible is one of the greatest gifts. This trip reminded me that our kids are so much more than their challenges, and sometimes the smallest victories are actually the biggest milestones. To all the parents and caregivers raising children with special needs: keep encouraging, keep creating opportunities, and don't be afraid to let your kids surprise you. Growth doesn't always happen on our timeline, but it happens in moments worth celebrating. Join Ryan and me for a little Nashville fun, a lot of heart, and a reminder that our kids deserve every opportunity to bloom! Because the difference isn't just in how we see our kids. It's in giving them the opportunity to show us what they can do. ❤️ #RockinTheDifference #SpecialNeedsParenting #AutismAwareness #BlindnessAwareness #Independence #CelebrateTheWins
S2 · E32
August 29 · 21 min
Episode 32: When Independence Gets Messy
The Independence I Asked For I spent 23 years fighting for Ryan’s independence. Now that he’s an adult, he’s giving me exactly what I asked for… and it’s driving me a little crazy. 😂 From clogged toilets and broken furniture to shaving mishaps, dirty walls, and a whole lot of “Mom, I’ve got this!”—we’re talking about the messy, frustrating, hilarious reality of letting an adult child with blindness and autism become more independent. Because sometimes the hardest part of independence isn’t teaching them how to do it… It’s learning when to let go. And yes, Ryan is also a Taurus. So…there’s that. ♉️😂
S2 · E31
July 28 · 41 min
Episode 31: The Reason Behind Rockin The Difference; An Interview with Ryan
Today is one of my favorite episodes yet. ❤️🎙️ For the first time, I’m talking with the person who inspired this entire podcast… my son, Ryan, AKA Biscuit So often, people hear words like blind or autistic and stop there. But Ryan is so much more than a diagnosis. He’s hilarious, kind, determined, sports-obsessed, a music lover, and the guy who keeps me laughing every single day. In this episode, we’re sharing funny stories, inside jokes, memories from school, his love of hockey, surfing, Taekwondo, and life at Agape Village. You’ll get a glimpse into the little moments that make Ryan… Ryan. Mostly, though, this is just a conversation between a mom and her son. I hope by the end of this episode you’ll feel like you feel you understand him and our dynamic a little better. . If Ryan makes you smile, laugh, or see the world a little differently, would you do us a favor? Share this episode with someone who could use a reminder that ability comes in so many different forms.
S2 · E30
June 30 · 50 min
Episode 30: The Friends Who Walk This Journey With Me
NEW EPISODE: The Friends Who Walk This Journey With Me When people talk about raising a child with special needs, they often focus on the parents. But what about the friends who choose to stay? In this episode of Rockin’ the Difference, I’m joined by two of my best friends who’ve been in my life since before Ryan was born. Andrea Heuer and Jenn Kiesby. They’ve watched him grow from a baby into the incredible man he is today. They’ve celebrated the victories, witnessed the challenges, and eventually raised their own children alongside him. Together, we talk about how Ryan’s blindness and autism didn’t just shape our family’s story—it influenced theirs too. We discuss what inclusion looked like before it was a buzzword, how their children learned empathy and acceptance simply by growing up together, and why true friendship means showing up through every season of life. This conversation is a reminder that the special needs journey doesn’t just change one family—it has the power to transform everyone it touches.
S2 · E29
June 1 · 1 min
Episode 29: Beach Getaway Conversations
No experts. No scripts. No agenda. Just five special needs parents, three incredible individuals with disabilities, a beach house, and some honest conversations about life. This week’s Rockin the Difference episode is a reminder that while our journeys may be different, the understanding we find in one another can be life-changing. Come join us for laughter, stories, and a little beachside wisdom. Special Thank you to Rob, Beckie, Christina, Jenna, Jonathan, Kali and Ryan for making this episode so very special. I love you all so much!
S2 · E28
April 29 · 53 min
Episode 28: Beyond What You See with Tiffany V. Easterbrook
Beyond What You See | Featuring Tiffany V. Easterbrook What if everything you thought you understood about someone… was only a fraction of the story? In this special episode, Ryan and I sit down with Tiffany V. Easterbrook for her YouTube interview series to share our journey—one that goes far beyond first impressions. We talk about what it’s really like raising and living as a blind and autistic young man, the challenges we’ve faced, the growth we’ve experienced, and the powerful moments that have shaped who we are today. Ryan joins the conversation in his own voice—bringing his personality, humor, and even singing a little and that reminds us all just how important it is to truly see people for who they are. This conversation is heartfelt, eye-opening, and filled with reminders that inclusion starts when we look beyond what’s on the surface. 🎥 Be sure to check out Tiffany’s YouTube channel @TiffanyEasterbrook to watch the full interview and experience the connection for yourself. https://youtu.be/X9FxbwZOJsU?si=dwBq9ItxQ3BflbUA And stay tuned… this is just the beginning. I’ll be sitting down with Tiffany soon for another powerful conversation as she prepares for the release of her upcoming book—you won’t want to miss it.
S3 · E27
March 31 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 27: Deciding to Homeschool with Tiffany Henry
What happens when the traditional path no longer feels like the right one for your child? In this episode, I sit down with my friend Tiffany Henry as she opens up about the deeply personal decision to homeschool her autistic son. From navigating unmet needs in a conventional school setting to trusting her instincts as a mother, Tiffany shares the pivotal moments that led her to choose a different path. We dive into the real, unfiltered side of homeschooling—the challenges, the doubts, the logistical hurdles, and the emotional weight of stepping outside the norm. But we also explore the powerful rewards: the freedom to tailor learning, the strengthening of their bond, and the breakthroughs that happen when a child is truly seen and supported. If you’re a parent questioning whether the traditional system is serving your child… If you’ve felt that quiet nudge that there might be another way… If you’re wondering whether you have what it takes to do something different… This conversation will meet you right where you are—and maybe even give you the clarity and courage to explore what’s possible.
S3 · E26
February 24 · 12 min
Episode 26: When Plans Change: Pivoting as a Special Needs Parent
This episode wasn’t planned. I found out my mother-in-law passed away just days before I leave on a big trip with my mom. And as a special needs parent, moments like this hit differently. How does your child process grief? What does change feel like in their nervous system? How do you hold space for them while also preparing to step away? In this episode, I share how Ryan responds to unexpected news, what grief can look like in neurodivergence, and the tension of missing him deeply while also being grateful I’m able to travel at all. Caregiving is learning to pivot without losing yourself. If you’re walking through change right now, you’re not alone. 🤍 #CaregiverSupport #NeurodivergentAdults #SpecialNeedsMom #ParentingThroughChange
S3 · E25
January 31 · 1 hr 30 min
Episode 25: Love, Care, and Financial Clarity: Planning Ahead for Our Special Needs Children with Jennifer Brown
In this episode of Rockin’ the Difference, I site down with Jennifer Caryn Brown—financial advisor and adoptive mom to a child with special challenges—for an honest and empowering conversation about caregiving, planning ahead, and finding peace of mind. Jennifer shares her personal journey navigating special services, advocacy, and parenting, while also offering practical guidance on how families can financially prepare for their child’s future. From understanding key planning tools to shifting from fear-based decisions to intentional ones, this episode bridges lived experience with professional insight. Whether you’re a caregiver just starting to think about long-term planning or someone feeling overwhelmed by the “what ifs,” this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to do it all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone. You can find more information forJennifer below: Website: www.browninvestmentmanagement.com email: jennifer@browninvestmentmanagement.com Social Media: @BrownInvestmentManagement
S2 · E24
Dec 30, 2025 · 12 min
Episode 24: Shedding Skin - What 2025 Asked of Me
As 2025 comes to a close, this episode of Rockin the Difference reflects on a year of profound change, challenges, and growth. I share what it meant to navigate major caregiving transitions for my son Ryan, face unexpected delays and emotional strain, and arrive at year’s end feeling both stretched and resilient. As I turn 50 on New Year’s Eve and reflects on shedding old layers to step into a new season, this episode marks the beginning of a year-end tradition—one rooted in honesty, healing, hope, and moving forward with intention.
S2 · E23
Nov 29, 2025 · 52 min
Episode 23: Meet Josh Bridegewater - The Spina Bifida Skater
Today on Rockin the Difference, we’re talking with someone whose story rewrites what resilience can look like. Josh Bridgewater is the oldest skateboarder with spina bifida — a title he never set out to earn, but one he carries with pride. Born with his spine outside his body, Josh has endured more than 46 surgeries just to keep moving through life as normally as possible. Growing up, he faced bullying, isolation, and the kind of challenges most of us will never understand. But everything changed the day he found skateboarding — and with it, a community that accepted him exactly as he was. What started as a personal escape evolved into a calling. As an adult, Josh as poured his energy into teaching kids with spina bifida and other disabilities how to ride, how to fall, how to get back up, and how to hold onto a positive mental attitude even when life hits hard. He knows the darkness of suicidal thoughts, and he knows the light that comes from purpose and connection. Josh and his wife Shawna, are an amazing team that work together to show the resiliency of love for each other and community through all the ups and downs that life brings. His story is raw, real, and incredibly inspiring — and I’m honored to share it with you. Let’s get into it.
S2 · E22
Oct 26, 2025 · 41 min
Episode 22: No Sight, All Vision: A Chat with the Lamarra Family
💫 What do you get when you mix courage, comedy, two white canes and 3 canines? Meet Brennan (21) and Mina (17) — two siblings who are blind, bold, and breaking barriers every day alongside their amazing mom, Parisa. ❤️ In this week’s Rockin the Difference episode, we dive into what it’s really like navigating a world that’s not always designed for them — the funny moments, the frustrating ones, and how they use their Instagram @yes_I_cane to educate and inspire others. 👩‍🦯✨ 🎧 Tune in and see the world through a whole new lens — one full of strength, laughter, and love.
S2 · E21
Sep 30, 2025 · 1 min
Episode 21: Russel Burke: Finding Purpose after Paralysis
🎙️ Episode 21: Russel Burke: Finding Purpose after Paralysis In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Rocking the Difference, I sit down with my friend Russ (@russ_on_wheelz), whose life changed forever after a boating accident at Lake Havasu left him quadriplegic. Russ opens up about his life before the accident — the energy, adventure, and freedom — and the life-altering moment that tested everything he thought he knew about strength and purpose. He shares candidly about the early days of recovery, the emotional and physical battles, and the unwavering determination that helped him rebuild not just his body, but his mindset and mission. Today, Russ has transformed his journey into one of hope and service. Through motivational speaking, hospital visits to newly paralyzed kids, tireless fundraising and being an awesome friend, he’s become a beacon of inspiration — surrounded by an incredible circle of family and friends who believe in his mission. He has also worked with the Triumph Foundation, helping others living with spinal cord injuries and disabilities find hope and support. Learn more at www.triumph-foundation.org. This episode is a reminder that even when life takes the most unexpected turn, the human spirit is unbreakable — and that purpose can rise from the deepest pain. 💡 Tune in to hear: Russ’s life before and after the accident The physical and emotional journey of recovery How he found purpose through helping others The power of community, faith, and love His ongoing mission to inspire hope and possibility 🎧 Listen now and be inspired to see challenges through a new lens — one of courage, connection, and unstoppable resilience. 📲 Follow Russ on Instagram: @russ_on_wheelz 🌐 Learn more or support: www.triumph-foundation.org
S2 · E20
Aug 26, 2025 · 16 min
Episode 20: The Hidden Work Behind Parenting a Special Needs Adult
✨ New Episode of Rockin’ the Difference ✨ Being a special needs parent means carrying an invisible load that most people never see. In this solo episode, I take you behind the scenes of my life as a single mom to my adult son—sharing the scheduling, the driving, the advocacy, and the emotional weight of planning for the future, all while balancing a full-time job and trying to care for myself, too. 💙 🎧 In this episode, I talk about: The hidden daily work of special needs parenting Navigating doctors, schools, and government agencies The long-term planning no parent wants to face, but has to This one’s for every caregiver who feels unseen—you are not alone. 💙
S2 · E19
Jul 31, 2025 · 25 min
Episode 19: Beyond Borders: Our Brazil Journey; Challenges and Big Wins
In this episode of Rockin the Difference, host Chandra Neal shares the behind-the-scenes story of preparing for international travel with her adult son, Ryan, who is blind and autistic. From a frustrating passport battle that required the help of her congressman, to packing with intention and securing disability accommodations, Chandra walks listeners through the real challenges — and the powerful surprises — she encountered while traveling to Brazil. This episode is a must-listen for any caregiver who’s ever wondered if big adventures are even possible. They are — and sometimes, they open doors to unexpected growth. 🎯 Topics Covered: Navigating the passport process with a special needs adult How to advocate with government agencies (and when to call your congressperson) Travel accommodations in Brazil for individuals with disabilities Emotional growth moments during long-distance travel Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard and other helpful tools Encouragement for caregivers to embrace travel and dream bigger 🧳 You don’t have to keep life small just because it’s hard. Let this story encourage and equip you for your own adventures — near or far.
#18
Jun 20, 2025 · 1 hr 5 min
Episode 18: Defying the Odds: A Father’s Fight for His Son and the Rare Disease Community with Christopher Velona
In this powerful episode of Rockin’ the Difference, I sit down with my dear friend Chris Velona — a devoted father, rare disease advocate, and founder of Project Sebastian, a nonprofit inspired by his son Sebastian, who was diagnosed with Batten disease, a rare and terminal neurodegenerative disorder. Chris shares his family’s emotional journey, the heartbreaking diagnosis, and how he chose to turn pain into purpose by creating a platform for awareness, connection, and hope. We talk about the emotional toll of caregiving, and what it's like to live day by day when the future is uncertain — yet still filled with love. Chris also introduces us to tools and communities that have been a source of support, including: 🔗 Project Sebastian: A nonprofit raising awareness and funding for Batten disease and other rare conditions 👉 www.projectsebastian.org ⚡️ BioRecharge Energy Enhancement Systems: Alternative wellness technology supporting cellular healing and energy 👉 www.biorecharge.net 💊 Mila’s Miracle Foundation: Advocating for individualized, gene-targeted medicine to treat rare genetic disorders 👉 www.milasmiracle.org This episode is for any parent walking a rare or uncertain path — and for anyone who needs a reminder that purpose can rise from even the darkest days. 💬 Connect & Share If this episode moved you, please rate, review, and share. You never know who needs to hear this story.
S2 · E17
May 18, 2025 · 19 min
Episode 17: What I Would Tell My Younger Self
In this episode, I open up about the early years when first learned my son had special needs—and all the emotions that came with it: grief, fear, uncertainty. If I could sit with that younger version of myself, I’d tell her this...
S2 · E16
Apr 6, 2025 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 16: Love Beyond Limits: A Family’s Journey Through Life, Loss, and Legacy"
In this heartfelt episode of Rocking the Difference, I sit down with an incredible mom Becky, and her two adult daughters, Hannah and Nicole, to honor the life and legacy of Breanna—their daughter and sister who had multiple disabilities, including blindness and mobility challenges, and who passed away three years ago. Together, we explore the deep love, joy, and challenges they experienced as a special needs family, and how Breanna’s presence shaped their bond. We talk about the funny memories, the hard days, the strength Breanna unknowingly gave them, and what life looks like now without her physical presence—but with her spirit still very much alive. This emotional and uplifting conversation is a tribute to unconditional love, sisterhood, and the resilience of families who walk this unique path. Tune in for a story that will move your heart and remind you that the love we give and receive knows no limits.
S2 · E15
Mar 10, 2025 · 15 min
Episode 15:Helping Special Needs Kids Advocate for Themselves – When They Don’t Speak Up
Today we’re talking about something so many special needs parents struggle with—helping our kids learn to advocate for themselves. I’ve personally been dealing with this forever with my son, who is now 21-year-old, who is blind and autistic. He has a hard time voicing his needs—whether it’s letting me know if he’s hungry or not feeling well, asking for help, or even just problem-solving in everyday situations. Today, I want to share some real-life examples of the challenges we face, explore why this happens, and—most importantly—open up the conversation to see what has worked for you as fellow parents and caregivers. I would love to hear your stories or strategies you've used to help your kid advocate for themselves. You can find me on Instagram @rockin_the_difference and leave a DM or comment. Or email me at rockingthedifference@gmail.com
S2 · E14
Feb 5, 2025 · 1 hr 22 min
Episode 14: Breaking Free: Overcoming Shame, Embracing Identity, and Rising Strong with Amanda Casarella
On today’s episode of Rocking the Difference, I am honored to welcome an incredible guest whose story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of self-belief. Amanda Casarella grew up facing challenges that many of us can relate to—struggling with a learning disability, battling debilitating migraines that kept her out of school, and navigating the stigma of being placed in special education. On top of that, she endured shame and abuse that made her believe her identity and worth were tied to her disability. She made the courageous choice to reclaim her narrative, break free from the limitations placed on her, and step into the truth of who she is. Today, she embraces her journey, knowing that every challenge shaped the powerhouse woman she’s become. She’s now a passionate actress and entrepreneur, using her experiences sharing her journey to inspire others, proving that our past does not define us—our determination does. You can find Amanda Casarella here: Instagram: @Amanda.Casarella and @alittlehouseorganized www.amandacasarella.com www.alittlehouseorganized.com

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