This marks the end of Season 1 of the Autism Resources Kawartha Podcast - and what a season it’s been.

If you or someone you know may be interested in being a guest on the podcast, or you want to sponsor the podcast, let us know, so they can be included in Season 2.

👉 Subscribe and stay with us - Season 2 is coming soon.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services

CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery

NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday

FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts

SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

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In this episode, Matt sits down with John from Kawartha Conservation.

John reflects on how awareness of autism has changed over the decades and shares personal stories about parenting, empathy, and supporting loved ones with different needs. We talk about why sensory-friendly spaces matter, especially at busy events, and how we worked with Kawartha Conservation to bring a Sensory Safe Space to this year’s Christmas at Ken Reid.

We also explore the healing side of nature: forest therapy, mindful time outdoors, and how conservation areas can offer comfort and calm to autistic people and families.

Plus, John gives a full behind-the-scenes look at Christmas at Ken Reid - from horses and wagon rides to vendors, crafts, the Ontario Science Centre, live music, and everything families can enjoy on Saturday, December 6th from 10 AM - 4 PM. Learn more at: www.kawarthaconservation.com/news

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services

CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery

NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday

FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts

SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

01:16 — John’s Early Experience with Autism
03:17 — Learning from Coworkers & Families
04:40 — When Autism Became Familiar
06:15 — Recognizing Autism in Hindsight
07:46 — The “White Car Syndrome” & Autism Everywhere
09:30 — Advocacy, Trick-or-Treat Bags & Public Reactions
10:11 — Parenting, Emotions & New Challenges
11:12 — John Shares About His Daughter
12:37 — Kindness, Intentions & Supporting Loved Ones
13:25 — Introducing Christmas at Ken Reid
14:15 — Why Sensory Spaces Matter
15:03 — Making Events Truly Inclusive
17:25 — Matt’s Experiences at Events with His Son
18:55 — Parking, Shuttles & Event Layout
19:40 — What to Expect This Year
21:22 — Behind the Scenes: Working with ARK
23:47 — Nature, Mental Health & Forest Therapy
26:08 — Community Partnerships & Mental Health
28:31 — Favourite Conservation Areas
30:48 — Sensory Overload & Heightened Senses
32:20 — Events, Volunteers & Community Togetherness
33:45 — A Stress-Free Holiday Experience
35:42 — John’s One Thing to Know About Autism

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In this episode, Matt sits down with Ashley, a parent and advocate whose life has been deeply shaped by autism - from growing up with her aunt Sarah Jane, to parenting her recently diagnosed son.

Ashley opens up about her early experiences living with a family member with autism, how her mother’s compassion taught her patience and advocacy, and how those lessons came full circle as she navigated her own son’s diagnosis. The conversation dives into the emotional journey of parenting a neurodivergent child - from recognizing early signs and advocating through the healthcare system, to balancing school struggles, meltdowns, and the power of understanding over judgment.

Ashley also shares her own experiences with ADHD and dyslexia, offering an honest look at how neurodiversity runs through generations and shapes the way she connects with her kids. Now parenting in a blended family with her partner, whose daughter is also autistic, Ashley reflects on the beauty and chaos of raising four children in a household that celebrates differences while learning every day what support truly means.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

02:37 Personal Experiences with Autism
05:48 Understanding Autism Diagnoses
08:34 The Impact of Diagnosis on Family Dynamics
11:54 Parenting Neurodiverse Children
14:35 Emotional Challenges and Growth
17:46 The Journey to Diagnosis
20:22 Reflections on Parenting and Self-Discovery
28:42 Navigating School Transitions for Children with Autism
32:45 Understanding Dyslexia and Its Impact
38:44 Coping Mechanisms for ADHD and Dyslexia
48:20 Building Community and Understanding in Autism
54:59 The Spectrum of Autism: Embracing Individual Differences

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In this episode, Matt sits down with Heather, a retired teacher and owner of R&J Stables. Heather shares her incredible journey from education to equine-assisted therapy, exploring how her lifelong love of horses has evolved into a deeply meaningful program that supports individuals with autism.

Heather discusses how her background in special education and her personal connection to disability through her late aunt shaped her approach to inclusion and understanding. She explains the unique bond between people and horses - how these intuitive animals help riders self-regulate, build confidence, and experience calm.

She also speaks about the story behind Sammy’s Place, the therapeutic riding program named in honour of a young rider who inspired Heather’s mission. Together, they reflect on the healing power of animals, the importance of individualized learning, and the role of compassion and autonomy in both teaching and parenting.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Therapeutic Riding and Autism
00:42 Therapeutic Riding Programs: A New Approach

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In this episode, Matt sits down with Jennifer - a devoted aunt to an autistic niece - to explore what it means to love, support, and understand from the outside looking in.

Jenn shares the story of her niece’s autism, ADHD, and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) diagnoses, and how those discoveries reshaped not just her niece’s world, but the whole family’s approach to connection and care. She opens up about learning to let go of “shoulds,” embracing radical acceptance, and finding patience in moments that challenge every instinct to “fix.”

From rethinking school and routines to redefining what affection looks like, Jenn reminds us that supporting an autistic loved one often means slowing down, listening, and letting them lead the way. Her honesty, humour, and deep empathy make this episode a powerful reminder that love doesn’t always mean doing more - sometimes it means doing less, and simply being there.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Autism and Personal Experiences
03:02 Understanding Autism Diagnoses and Profiles
05:50 Parenting Challenges with Neurodivergent Children
08:52 Navigating Expectations and Accommodations
12:03 Building Relationships with Neurodivergent Children
15:02 The Role of Patience and Understanding
17:54 Radical Acceptance in Parenting
20:55 The Impact of Schooling on Neurodivergent Children
24:01 Creating Opportunities for Engagement
26:51 The Importance of Communication and Debriefing
30:00 Final Thoughts on Autism Awareness and Support

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In this conversation, Christy discusses the challenges faced in advocating for her child within the school system, the importance of understanding sensory overload and anxiety, and the need for structure and routine. She reflects on her journey of acceptance and resilience, emphasizing the significance of community support and the role of diagnosis in understanding autism. Christy concludes with thoughts on the importance of kindness and advocacy in navigating relationships and societal expectations.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Personal Experiences with Autism
02:45 Advocacy and School Challenges
05:34 Understanding Sensory Overload and Elopement
08:42 Navigating Medical Appointments and Dental Care
11:56 The Importance of Connection and Communication
14:48 Testing and Diagnosis Journey
17:36 Parenting Strategies and Support Systems
29:31 Navigating Support and Advocacy for Autism
34:47 Personal Experiences with Learning Disabilities
38:40 Embracing Individual Differences and Self-Advocacy
44:50 Understanding Relationships and Boundaries
50:48 Social Dynamics and School Experiences
56:00 The Importance of Open Communication and Support
01:00:59 Navigating Support Systems for Autism
01:05:49 The Emotional Toll of Parenting a Child with Autism
01:10:03 Understanding Anxiety and Sensory Overload
01:14:10 The Importance of Advocacy and Support
01:17:06 Reflections on Personal Growth and Parenting Challenges

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In this conversation, Kali shares her personal journey with autism, focusing on her experiences as a parent of an autistic child. We discuss the early diagnosis of her son, the challenges faced in understanding autism, and the impact it has on family dynamics. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support, advocacy, and the unique gifts that autistic individuals bring to the world, including one of the most impactful things I have ever heard about loving someone with autism. Kali emphasizes the need for empathy and understanding in the broader community, as well as the challenges within the healthcare system regarding autism diagnosis and support.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Autism and Personal Experiences
04:42 The Impact of Early Diagnosis
07:19 Finding Community and Support
09:41 Understanding Personal Struggles and Identity
18:47 Recognizing Similarities in Autism
25:22 Advocacy and the Autism Spectrum
29:38 Navigating the Healthcare System
32:48 Navigating the Waitlist Dilemma
34:17 The Role of Therapists in Autism Care
35:54 Understanding Autistic Happiness
36:52 Community Support and Police Interaction
38:45 The Challenge of Elopement
40:09 The Need for Breaks and Personal Space
42:59 Community Awareness and Safety
45:21 Balancing Parenting Needs
49:06 The Anxiety of Elopement
51:05 Juggling Family Dynamics
54:01 Planning for Social Situations
58:18 The Gifts of Autism
01:01:48 The Spiritual Perspective on Autism

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This conversation with Alexandra explores the experiences of parenting autistic children, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and the importance of understanding and advocacy. The discussion delves into the role of sports in providing inclusive environments, planning family outings, and the emotional journey of navigating diagnosis and accommodations. Ultimately, it celebrates the unique strengths of neurodiversity and autism as a superpower.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery
NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday
FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts
SUBSCRIBE: YouTube

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Setup
02:03 Personal Experiences with Autism
05:02 The Role of Sports in Autism
07:56 Navigating Diagnosis and Parental Challenges
10:50 Understanding Meltdowns and Sensory Issues
13:41 The Grieving Process of Parenting
16:32 Advocacy and Education for Autistic Children
19:25 The Importance of Accommodations
22:07 Reflections on Parenting and Support
25:04 Future Considerations for Autistic Children
37:07 Navigating the Autism Spectrum in Family Dynamics
41:57 Understanding Sensory Needs and Family Activities
49:17 Planning Family Outings with Autistic Children
57:51 Managing Expectations and Emotional Well-being
01:02:45 The Superpower of Autism and Its Unique Strengths

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