Hello. My name is Sonia Chand, and my podcast will entail what it was like to grow up on the Autism Spectrum and cover various mental health topics. My podcast is a safe space for people to share their stories to help educate and empower others.
…
continue reading
Join host Taylor as she sits down with runners from all walks of life to delve into their unforgettable first marathon experiences. From the nerves at the starting line to the euphoria of crossing the finish, each episode offers a candid look at the highs, lows, and unexpected twists of preparing for and conquering 26.2 miles. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just considering lacing up your running shoes for the first time, this podcast is your go-to source for motivation, inspiration ...
…
continue reading
Welcome to the Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where I, Nikki Shipp, invite you to join me on a journey through the intricacies of life as a wife to a dedicated police officer and a mother to an incredible autistic son. As a parent navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum, I understand firsthand the complexities and uncertainties that come with it. Through this podcast, I share my personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way. Pieces For ...
…
continue reading
It's been 9 months since I filmed my last solo episode breaking down how I trained from couch to marathon in 11 months. On today's episode we're bringing the solo show back to break down the last 9 months of training since my first marathon and all of the things that have changed since all leading up to marathon #2! We get into having to train your…
…
continue reading
1
Faith and Bipolar Disorder: Sarah's Story
53:41
53:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:41
Send us a text After grappling with the realities of bipolar disorder, Sarah I Fox invites us into her world, sharing her transformative journey through mental health challenges. Growing up in Brooklyn and identifying as a woman of color, Sarah discusses the intersectionality between mental health, being a person of color, and the role of her faith…
…
continue reading
1
46: Power In The Running Community: You Can Do Hard Things w/ Belle Ferguson
57:31
57:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:31
Today's guest joins us all the way from Australia! We dive into her first year of running and how she truly was able to prove to herself in that time frame that ANYONE can do hard things. We talk about how her relationship with running changed drastically - from not enjoying it one bit to eventually MISSING her long runs as she got closer to race d…
…
continue reading
1
S2E35: Physical Therapy & Autism with Dr. Nikki | Empowering Families and Addressing Mom Guilt - Part 2
36:35
36:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:35
Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast, where we discuss the intersection of Physical Therapy and Autism with our special guest, Dr. Nikki Robinett. About Our Guest: Dr. Nikki is a dedicated physical therapist with over 9 years of experience, specializing in pediatrics for the past 5 years. Based in Arizona, she has an extensive backg…
…
continue reading
1
Shannon's Resilient Journey: Healing and Empowerment After a Brain Injury
44:17
44:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:17
Send us a text Please tune in as Shannon Freedman shares her harrowing journey of surviving a horrible car crash that landed her in a coma. Shannon details her experience of still being able to hear while in a coma what people were saying and shares what she was able to remember, despite being in a debilitating state. Shannon ended up losing a 1/4 …
…
continue reading
1
45: Diagnosis To Marathon: Getting Hooked On Running In 5 Months
52:08
52:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:08
On today's episode, we get a unique experience from a runner who has only started his marathon journey 5 months ago. After a scary MS diagnosis, he knew he needed to introduce more movement into his life which started out at first with committing to a walk every day. Eventually, this turned to curiosity about running, and led to him running his fir…
…
continue reading
1
S2E33: Finding Better Speech Options with Lenora Edwards
21:39
21:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
21:39
In this episode, Lenora Edwards brings in her experience as a board-certified speech-language pathologist to the table, offering insights, practical tips, and expert advice on navigating the complexities of speech therapy for children on the autism spectrum. She’s had the privilege of working closely with individuals across the autism spectrum, fro…
…
continue reading
1
S2E34: Physical Therapy & Autism with Dr. Nikki | Empowering Families and Addressing Mom Guilt - Part 1
31:53
31:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:53
Welcome to another insightful episode of our podcast, where we discuss the intersection of Physical Therapy and Autism with our special guest, Dr. Nikki Robinett. About Our Guest: Dr. Nikki is a dedicated physical therapist with over 9 years of experience, specializing in pediatrics for the past 5 years. Based in Arizona, she has an extensive backg…
…
continue reading
1
44: Ordinary To Ultra: Goals Of Running Farther Not Faster w/ Brendon Boren
1:00:22
1:00:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:22
On todays episode, I talk to the host of the Ordinary to Ultra podcast who you may have heard me on a few months back! We breakdown his journey into running and how he found his way to the goal of running farther, rather than working on getting faster. If you're looking to dip your toes into the ultra world, this is a great episode to tune into. An…
…
continue reading
1
43: The Bucket List: Running A Marathon With Team Ultra w/ Ned Hamilton
1:00:47
1:00:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:47
On today's episode, we chat with a runner who talks about running as a way to help with his mental health. We get into how it's helped so much with his anxiety, and how it's been a major source of motivation for him. We break down his first marathon experience and his upcoming 2 marathons - which he announces on the podcast today, so stay tuned to …
…
continue reading
1
Empowering Transformation and Breathwork Insights with Dr. Seema
54:35
54:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:35
Send us a text Have you ever felt trapped by societal expectations? Meet Dr. Seema Desai, one of the inspiring hosts of the "Happy and Human" podcast, who candidly shares her journey from a structured career in dentistry to embracing her true calling as a coach, podcast host where various topics with regard to mental heath are discussed , and autho…
…
continue reading
1
S2E32: Behind the Lens with Jay Silverman – Part 2
34:43
34:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:43
In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed Director, Producer, and Photographer, Jay Silverman, to discuss his latest dramatic feature, Camera. Jay, who has over 40 years of experience in the entertainment industry, shares insights into the making of the film, its themes, and its impact on viewers, particularly within the Special Needs communities…
…
continue reading
1
S2E31: Behind the Lens with Jay Silverman – Part 1
34:39
34:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:39
In this episode, we sit down with Jay Silverman, the acclaimed Director, Producer, and Photographer behind the recently released dramatic feature CAMERA. Join us as we explore Jay's unique perspective on filmmaking, his personal connection to the story, and the powerful themes of love and connection that drive the film. About Jay Silverman Jay Silv…
…
continue reading
1
S2E27: From Diagnosis to Therapy: An Autism Journey with Sonia Chand - Part 1
40:05
40:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:05
Join us as we sit down with Sonia Chand, a licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Sonia's unique perspective as both a mental health professional and someone diagnosed with autism later in life provides invaluable insights into the autism spectrum. Who Should Listen? Autism Community: Whether yo…
…
continue reading
1
S2E28: From Diagnosis to Therapy: An Autism Journey with Sonia Chand - Part 2
27:44
27:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:44
We continue our conversation with Sonia Chand, a licensed professional counselor with a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling. Sonia's unique perspective as both a mental health professional and someone diagnosed with autism later in life provides invaluable insights into the autism spectrum. Episode Highlights Daily Life with Autism…
…
continue reading
1
S2E29: Healing Autism: Warrior Mom's Journey with Tracy Slepcevic - Part 1
35:34
35:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:34
Join us with Tracy Slepcevic for a heartfelt and inspiring episode! Episode Highlights: Introduction to Tracy Slepcevic: Discover Tracy's background in integrative health and her profound dedication to the autism community. Personal Journey: Tracy shares her emotional and resilient story as a mother to her son, Noah, who was diagnosed with autism. …
…
continue reading
1
S2E30: Healing Autism: Warrior Mom's Journey with Tracy Slepcevic - Part 2
32:57
32:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:57
We continue our this episode with Tracy Slepcevic on another heartfelt and inspiring episode! Episode Highlights: Integrative Health for Special Needs: Tracy discusses how holistic approaches can benefit families with special needs children. She shares insights into the challenges of broader acceptance and offers strategies for overcoming these obs…
…
continue reading
1
42: Shifting Goals: What Gets You Into Running Is Different Than What Keeps You Running w/ Randy Hernandez
1:06:13
1:06:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:13
On today's episode we interview a runner whose first marathon training is fresh on his mind after running the Jersey City Marathon in April of this year. We dove into how he originally got involved with running to lose weight and how along the way he really found a passion for it. He's the true couch to marathon story. So if you can relate to that,…
…
continue reading
1
Caralyn's Journey of Healing and Empowerment After Trauma
58:30
58:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:30
Send us a text Please give it up for Caralyn Dreyer, whom for the very first time, spoke out loud her journey of surviving the trauma of sexual assault. As anybody knows, being vulnerable is a courageous act in and of itself, but when we are speaking the trauma of being sexually assaulted, the amount of courage and vulnerability is at a whole new l…
…
continue reading
1
41: Running Internationally: Falling In Love With Running In The Peace Corps w/ Emmery Brakke-Lautman
1:19:13
1:19:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:19:13
On today's episode, I sit down with a runner with a super unique start to her running career. Most people we've interviewed on the show have maybe not come from a running background, but usually some sort of athletic background that they were starting off with. Not this runner - she's the true "hating to loving running" pipeline. Her journey starts…
…
continue reading
1
40: Tips From A Coach: You Are Never Behind w/ Nick Savin
1:05:40
1:05:40
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:40
On today's episode, we get a good mix of coaching advice from a wonderful run coach in the marathon space, and personal anecdotes and stories from his own experiences. My favorite takeaway from this episode is how individual all of our running journey's are and how if you're constantly working towards something, you can never truly be behind. To qu…
…
continue reading
1
39: Embodying A Charity Runner: Running For More Than Yourself w/ Sonia Chand
1:03:16
1:03:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:16
On today's episode, we chat with a podcast host, author, and charity runner who is passionate about running for others. We dive into what it really means to run for charity, the mental aspects of being a "back of the pack runner" and how to mentally cope with running in this space, and more. This runner is absolutely lovely to talk to and has a lot…
…
continue reading
1
Empowering Drayson: A Mother's Advocacy
1:01:10
1:01:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:10
Send us a text Navigating the maze of autism diagnosis can be overwhelming and isolating. Today’s episode of "On the Spectrum with Sonia" features Nikki Shipp, the courageous host of Pieces for my Puzzle podcast, sharing her personal journey from the initial shock of her son Drayson's diagnosis to the joyous moment he first called her "mom." Nikki’…
…
continue reading
1
38: Below Average Running: The People Around You Matter w/ Nicole Linn
1:04:36
1:04:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:36
On today's episode, we sit down with THE Below Average Running leader as she breaks down her first and second marathon experiences. In the episode, we talk a lot about the mental battle of running a marathon and how the people around you truly can pull you through anything. Stay tuned for her success story of running her first marathon and how she …
…
continue reading
1
37: Boston From A Charity Lens: Another Perspective On Running Boston w/ Stephen Giuffre
1:15:04
1:15:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:04
On today's episode, we get to hear another perspective on running Boston from someone who ran the Marathon with a charity instead of by BQ'ing. We've talked to a lot of Boston runners, but found it really fascinating to hear from someone who experienced this prestigious race in a different way! We also get into his fitness journey from boxing to ru…
…
continue reading
1
Luna's Entrepreneurial Way of Thinking and Creativity Sparked Because of her Autism
25:13
25:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:13
Send us a text Please tune in to listen as Luna discusses how Autism not only allowed her to focus on her intense interests and creativity, but how it allowed her to thrive. Luna discusses the challenges she went through being on the Autism Spectrum, but she also discusses her immense successes. It is amazing how at 12 years old, Luna is a way forw…
…
continue reading
1
36: COVID Couch To Marathon: Feeling Lost and Finding Running w/ The Manor Runs
57:44
57:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:44
On today's episode we interview a runner with the classic couch to 5k during COVID pipeline where he was searching for goals and a way to get outside, and happened upon running! From there, his love for running blossomed as he signed up for several 5k's that eventually turned to 10k's and half marathon's. Once he hit the half marathon point, the ma…
…
continue reading
1
S2E26: Finding Peace and Clarity as a Parent of a Child with Special Needs with Guest Speaker Russ Solomon - Part 2
29:31
29:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:31
We continue from last week’s episode with guest speaker, Russ Solomon, the founder of InTune Parents. In this episode, we sit down with Russ to explore ways parents of children with special needs can find peace and clarity, no matter what challenges they face. Russ shares valuable strategies and success stories that can inspire and empower parents …
…
continue reading
1
S2E25: Finding Peace and Clarity as a Parent of a Child with Special Needs with Guest Speaker Russ Solomon - Part 1
30:48
30:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:48
In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Russ Solomon, the founder of InTune Parents. Russ shares his incredible insights on how parents of children with special needs can find peace and clarity, even in the most challenging moments. He discusses his MasterClass offerings and provides a free 15-minute parent wellness assessment aimed at supporti…
…
continue reading
1
35: From Zero To Ultra And Back To Zero: Bouncing Back From Injury w/ Lane Babin
1:05:03
1:05:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:03
On today's episode, we have another crossover guest! If you remember the very first guest episode with Cody Caswell, this is the runner who helped Cody through his first 50k. Aside from that race, this runner has more than 15 Ultras and 3 Marathons under his belt, and talks about his journey from not liking running at all to pushing himself to run …
…
continue reading
1
34: Training For Your First Marathon: New Milestones Every Weekend w/ Lindsey Marquette
1:04:02
1:04:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:02
Remember the episode with Ellie where she talked about running her first marathon with her college best friend? This is that friend! We get to hear the other side of her first marathon story where she talks about how special it truly is to run a marathon for the first time. It starts in training - every week hitting milestone after milestone until …
…
continue reading
1
From Misdiagnosed to Diagnosed to School Drop Out to Success Story...Life of Dave Kotera
1:17:52
1:17:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:17:52
Send us a text Please tune in as Dave Kotera shares his journey from being misdiagnosed to diagnosed, mistreated at school to ending up dropping out of school, struggles with addiction to living a clean and sober life, and ultimately becoming a success story. Dave shares his account of the power of ignorance and better need for understanding and ed…
…
continue reading
1
S2E24: Exploring Emotional Literacy with Nicole Oke, Author of 'Penny Panda and the Gift of Possibility'
23:06
23:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
23:06
In this episode, we sit down with Nicole Oke, the author behind the beloved children's book series featuring Penny Panda. Join us as we explore the themes of emotional intelligence, self-confidence, and the power of friendship that permeate Nicole's books. We'll discuss the inspiration behind her writing, the importance of teaching children about e…
…
continue reading
1
33: Taking the Pressure Off: Lessons Of Personal Growth w/ Trevor Swope
1:08:44
1:08:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:44
On today's episode, we sit down with an inspiring runner who shares the highs and lows of his debut marathon journey. He opens up about the crucial lesson he learned: why comparing ourselves to other runners can be a major hurdle to personal growth and enjoyment. From his first steps in training to the exhilarating (and often challenging) race day,…
…
continue reading
1
32: 4th Times The Charm: Forming a Post College Relationship with Running w/ Kayley Heller
1:20:06
1:20:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:20:06
On today's episode, I sit down with a runner who got the nudge she needed to run a marathon from family after years of cross country and casually running. From this experience, she was able to form an all new relationship with running post college and decided to see if she could tackle the infamous BQ! It took 4 marathons to put the pieces together…
…
continue reading
Send us a text Please tune in as we listen to Lauren Erickson discuss how she experienced Autism from the lens of having a sibling who is on the spectrum. Through Lauren's story, you will see how she was taught many valuable life lessons; life lessons that many didn't get the opportunity to be taught. Lauren discusses the importance of not just qui…
…
continue reading
1
S2E23: Communication, Connection, & Create with Guest Speaker Siris Raquel Rivas-Verdejo
34:45
34:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:45
Join us in this insightful episode as we chat with Siris Raquel Rivas-Verdejo, an esteemed Family and Child Coach. We explore the intricate aspects of communication and connection within families, particularly focusing on those with children diagnosed with autism. Siris shares her unique approach to coaching, which combines energetic techniques, ad…
…
continue reading
1
31: Healing Through Endurance: A Story of Perseverance w/ Kallup McCoy II
56:25
56:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:25
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with a remarkable athlete and coach who transformed his life through the power of endurance sports. Battling addiction, experiencing the harsh realities of jail time, and navigating deep personal loss from an early age, this runner faced challenges that could have defined his life. Instead, he chose to rise ab…
…
continue reading
1
30: The Disney Marathon: Learning To Love Running w/ Kacy Barker
58:58
58:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:58
Today we interview a runner who had the classic "hater to lover" pipeline with running so if this is you, listen up! In 2020 like many, she started running as a way to get out of the house when things were in shut down, and because there were no races available at the time her first race experience was actually her first full marathon at Disney Wor…
…
continue reading
Send us a text Please tune in as Mona Isreal discusses her journey with Autism, how she uses her voice to advocate for women on the Autism Spectrum, and her abundance of positivity around Autism. Not only has Mona accomplished what people never thought she would be able to do, which was graduate high school, Mona went on to become a financial analy…
…
continue reading
1
S2E22: Fostering The Relationship Between First Responders and Autism with Chris and Autumn Timmins - Part 2
32:32
32:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:32
In this continuation of our discussion with the founders of Preston's Pursuit for Acceptance, Chris and Autumn Timmins delve deeper into the relationship between first responders and the autism community. Chris, with his extensive background in law enforcement, and Autumn, continue to share their invaluable insights and personal anecdotes, highligh…
…
continue reading
1
29: From Virtual to Victory: Finally Getting the Marathon You Wanted w/ Maria Long
57:31
57:31
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:31
On today's episode, we hear from a runner and coach who took 4 marathons to finally get to the marathon she always hoped for. From running a virtual marathon as her first (even putting together her own route!), to weather conditions and unexpected turns on her second and third, to finally putting all of the pieces together on her 4th. Her journey o…
…
continue reading
1
28: Zero To NYC... Twice: Getting Two Chances at New York w/ Sean (Dadruns)
1:09:05
1:09:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:05
In today's episode, we sit down with a runner who's been able to run NYC not once, but twice for his first two marathon experiences. We dive into how he went from a team sport background to starting to get into running, and how over time he's been able to appreciate the process more and more through his first race experience. After many lessons lea…
…
continue reading
1
S2E21: Fostering The Relationship Between First Responders and Autism with Chris and Autumn Timmins - Part 1
26:42
26:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
26:42
In this week's episode, we are joined by the inspiring founders of Preston's Pursuit for Acceptance, Chris and Autumn Timmins. Chris, a seasoned law enforcement officer with 25 years of experience, and Autumn, have dedicated their lives to fostering a culture of knowledge, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with autism within the first respon…
…
continue reading
1
27: Expect the Unexpected: Running Your Local Marathon w/ Emma Denbow
47:00
47:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:00
Think about your first marathon experience, and then add in 90% of the racers moving to the half due to weather, an unexpected downpour, and limited aid stations. In this episode, we explore the gripping journey of a first-time marathoner who faced all of these challenges and a tricky course for her first experience and now is looking to use all th…
…
continue reading
Send us a text Please tune into this week's episode as we discuss Applied Behavioral Analysis with two amazing ladies: Britney Smith and Ashton Benedikt. Brittney and Ashton are very intelligent and passionate workers, striving to improve the quality for life for those on the autism spectrum. In addition, both Britney and Ashton have their own uniq…
…
continue reading
1
26: First Marathon Lessons: From Halfs To Full w/ Jasmeet Emani
55:36
55:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:36
In this episode, I sit down with a runner with marathoning fresh on her mind - she recently completed her first marathon at the 2024 Rock n' Roll Marathon in Nashville this past April. We explore her transition from a novice runner to crossing the marathon finish line, discussing the challenges, triumphs, and valuable insights she gained along the …
…
continue reading
1
S2E18: Nurturing Social Skills in Autistic Children: Strategies for Growth
18:14
18:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
18:14
Join us as we delve into practical techniques and share inspiring stories that highlight the importance of patience, understanding, and tailored strategies in nurturing social skills. Together, we can help children build meaningful connections and thrive socially. Episode Highlights: Create Structured Opportunities: Learn how to design environments…
…
continue reading
1
S2E19: Cultivating Friendship and Connection with Your Child on the Spectrum
17:09
17:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
17:09
In this insightful episode, we explore the essential strategies for creating meaningful bonds with your autistic child. From the significance of emotional connections to practical methods such as shared interests and tailored communication, this podcast is packed with valuable advice for parents. Key Highlights: Discover the importance of fostering…
…
continue reading
In this episode, we dive into effective and compassionate approaches to support children with autism. Designed for parents, care providers, and educators, this episode offers valuable insights and practical strategies to create a nurturing environment that fosters emotional regulation and well-being. Episode Highlights In this episode, we explore: …
…
continue reading