Are you ready to tackle one of the most important challenges facing teenagers today? This week, I’m thrilled to bring you an empowering conversation with Austin Davis, a seasoned expert with over 15 years of experience transforming the lives of teens and their families. As the founder of Fairfork Academy in Texas, Austin is passionate about giving troubled teens, including those on the autism spectrum or navigating ADHD, a fresh start through faith, recovery, and community.

In this episode, we discuss: ✨ The unique struggles faced by neurodivergent teens in today’s world. ✨ How parents and caregivers can support young people on their journey. ✨ The role of individualized care in building resilience and hope.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone eager to learn how to better support the teens in your life, this episode is packed with actionable insights and heartfelt stories.

💡 Don’t miss out on this game-changing conversation that could help transform a life. Hit play now and join me, April Ratchford, on this inspiring journey to understanding, connection, and growth.

👉 Subscribe, like, and share to help us reach more listeners. Together, we can make a difference! ❤️

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Hey there, happy Wednesday! This week's episode is coming to you straight from my chilly office nook because, well, it's just too noisy everywhere else. But trust me, it's worth it because I have a special guest who's here to shake things up for all of us struggling with mindfulness and stress management.

Meet Dr. Satya Sardonicus a chiropractor and neurobiology expert who's been through the wringer with her own health challenges. She's here to share how she overcame her symptoms and developed the Neurofascial Flow Method, a game-changer for many, especially those on the autism spectrum.

In this episode, Dr. Satya dives deep into understanding the nervous system, why traditional mindfulness might not be cutting it, and how her method can help bring your body back to a state of balance. She even shares some simple techniques you can try at home to help calm your nervous system and release trauma. Plus, she's got online programs and resources that you can easily access for more in-depth guidance.

If you've been feeling stuck in a cycle of stress and anxiety, this conversation might just be the key to unlocking a new path to healing. So grab your headphones, settle in, and let's explore how to bring some peace and balance back into our lives.

Thanks for tuning in, and a huge thank you to Dr. Satya for sharing her wisdom with us. Stay curious, and I'll catch you next week with more insights and stories!

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Hey friends! Happy Saturday! 🎉 I hope your week was as fabulous as you are. Mine was a rollercoaster for my senses, but I ended it with a bang by diving back into ballroom dancing after two years! 💃 My dream? To conquer the Ohio Star Ball. Go big or go home, right?

Today, I'm so excited to bring you the second half of our "Dating Dumpster Fire" series with the amazing relationship coach Valerie Green. In this episode, we're talking about something that's often misunderstood – the dance of masculine and feminine energies in relationships. Trust me, it’s not what you think! 💥

We also dive into how to master the art of compromise during those tricky relationship moments (let’s face it, we all have them). I wasn’t born a great arguer, but over time, I've learned strategies that make all the difference. 🗣️ Valerie brings valuable insights on how these energies are all about choice—it’s not tied to gender, but to the roles we play in relationships. This conversation will help you improve your connection, whether you’re single, dating, or in a committed relationship.

Grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join us as we chat with Valerie about how understanding these energies can truly transform your love life.

🎧 Want more from Valerie? Check out her amazing free resources at coachvaleriegreen.com. Whether you're struggling with relationships or seeking personal growth, she’s got you covered!

👉 Stay connected with me! Join our supportive community on Facebook at April Michelle Ratchford or come hang out in our Adulting with Autism Podcast Facebook Group. I’d love to hear from you and chat with you about this episode!

Thanks for being part of this journey and supporting the podcast. You make this all possible! Until next time, keep dancing through life and adulting like a pro! 💖

P.S. Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel for video versions of the podcast, and subscribe for more amazing content.

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Hey guys, happy Wednesday! 🎉 I’m back with full energy and my voice (after a little hiccup yesterday), and I’m so excited to be here with you. This week, we’re diving into dating—and let’s be honest, sometimes it feels like a dumpster fire, right? Whether you're neurodivergent or neurotypical, dating apps have completely changed the game, and it's a wild ride out there. Remember the good old days of passing notes and having a wingman? Yeah, me too!

I’m super excited to introduce today’s guest, Valerie Greene, a relationship expert who specializes in helping neurodivergent adults break free from old patterns and find the love they deserve. Valerie has a unique understanding of the neurodivergent mind, and her insights are seriously transformative. In this episode, we chat about everything from how dating apps are shaping modern relationships to how to create secure emotional connections and, of course, how to spot and avoid those dreaded red flags.

Whether you’re new to the dating scene or navigating a long-term relationship, this episode is packed with actionable advice and valuable insights to help you build stronger, more fulfilling connections. So grab your drink of choice and settle in because we’re going deep into the world of neurodivergent dating with lots of laughs along the way.

And if you’re in a relationship with some red flags, Valerie has some tips on that too, so don’t miss out!

Also, don’t forget to join the Adulting with Autism Facebook group—it’s a great space to connect with others who get it—and check out our website at adultingwithautism.com. We’ve got blogs, merch (yes, cute t-shirts!), and tons of resources. Your support means the world to me, and I’m so grateful for all of you.

I can’t wait to see you again on Saturday for Part 2 of this dating adventure. Keep adulting and remember, relationships don’t have to be a dumpster fire—let's make them thrive!

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Hey there! Happy Saturday! 😊 I'm here in my office, and guess what? My office mate Amy decided to skip out on joining my podcast today. Can you believe it? I know, right? And oh, my voice! It’s a bit off thanks to this crazy weather. But you know what? It is what it is! Sorry, Alex, I’m trying to keep up with your podcast advice!

But hey, I’ve got something special for you! Today, we're diving deep into vulnerability and self-connection with Bob Wischer, the "Relationship Engineer." As the founder of Men Becoming Better Men Coaching and host of the Men Becoming Better Men podcast, Bob empowers men to connect with themselves and others, finding purpose and joy in life. All of this started after his own journey through divorce and disconnection.

Bob's insights are especially valuable if you've ever felt the strong pull of emotions, much like the force in Star Wars. He has guided over 100 men to break free from the status quo, emphasizing the importance of connecting with loved ones, community, and, most importantly, oneself.

So, kick back, relax, and tune in to our conversation. You might find Bob’s story resonates with you and sparks your own journey of connection. Welcome Bob Wisher to the Adulting with Autism podcast!

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Hey there, Padawans! Happy Wednesday! I'm thrilled you could make it across the galaxy to join us for this Star Wars-themed episode of Adulting with Autism. While I contemplated dressing up as Ahsoka for Halloween, today we're bringing in the big guns with our Master Jedi, Ambika Devi!

Ambika isn't just your average Jedi. In 2023, she was crowned Female CEO of the Year for Most Inspirational Workplace Communication Specialist. She’s here to share her amazing tools that can stabilize relationships, boost health, and restore harmony—just like a true Jedi would.

With degrees galore and a mind full of wisdom, Ambika is also a consultant for the International Yoga Alliance. She's gracing our podcast today to share her insights on becoming mindful Jedis of our own lives. So, grab your favorite drink, put down those lightsabers, and let's dive in!

In this episode, Ambika guides us through the art of meditation, the power of yoga, and how to witness our thoughts without getting tangled up in them. Imagine transforming your morning routine with her soothing practices, learning to detach from negativity, and embracing the peace of a Jedi mind.

Whether you're new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, Ambika's tips on yoga, breathing, and mindfulness will surely resonate. From belly breathing to finding your inner calm, she’s got you covered. And don't worry about needing special gear—simplicity is key, and it's all about being comfortable.

If you're ready to embark on this journey to become a mindful Jedi, Ambika is here to guide you. You can find her at ambikadevi.com for more wisdom and teachings.

Thank you for tuning in, and a massive shoutout to Master Ambika for sharing her knowledge with us. Remember, may the force be with you, and keep adulting!

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Hey there, happy Monday! 🌟 I'm just hanging out, waiting for my son, Z, to finish his shift at Kroger. As I was working on some continuing education for my occupational therapy license today, it got me thinking about the learning curve we all face in life. Whether it's podcasting, therapy, or any other field, that five-year mark is where the magic happens!

You know, my professor in OT school used to say it takes five years to truly feel like a pro in your field, and he wasn't kidding! I remember feeling like an absolute newbie despite having a decade of nursing under my belt. The same goes for podcasting now—I'm learning so much, but boy, is it overwhelming!

But hey, it's all part of the journey, right? We all have to wade through the awkwardness and mistakes to get to that confident, competent place. So, if you're feeling like an amateur in whatever you're doing, just know you're not alone. We've all been there, and it's okay to take your time.

Oh, and if you ever want to chat, share a joke, or geek out over Star Wars, hit me up on Facebook! I'm always here to connect. Keep pushing through that learning curve, my friends, and remember, you're doing great. Love ya, and keep adulting! 💪

Hey guys, happy Saturday! Wow, it's been a whirlwind couple of weeks, hasn't it? Yesterday, I whisked Ahzerei, my son Z, off to the fantastic College Internship Program tour in Bloomington, Indiana. It's a three-hour drive from home, but totally worth it. The program is amazing and will surely help him reach his dreams. We also had a blast at the spooky soiree event with our friends in Lexington. So, yes, I'm a bit late with this, but life has been a bit of a rollercoaster!

Speaking of life-changing programs, I recently chatted with two incredible moms, Suellen Barnes and Susan Ballerstedt, who started the Next Step training program in Simpsonville, Kentucky. Frustrated by the lack of support for autistic young adults after high school, they took matters into their own hands. Their program is all about empowering young adults with autism to gain independence and job skills. It's so heartwarming to hear about their mission and the difference they're making.

Their approach is so unique, combining cognitive training, occupational therapy, and social skills development. The best part? Their program is small and personalized, ensuring that each participant gets the attention they deserve. It's inspiring to see how they're creating opportunities not just in Kentucky, but potentially around the world!

If you're in Kentucky or anywhere else and feel like there are no resources for autistic young adults, know that you're not alone. Programs like Next Step are working hard to change that narrative, and we can all be a part of that change. Let's support each other and spread the word. Together, we can make a difference!

Thanks for tuning in, and remember, there's nothing you can't do. Keep adulting, and I'll catch you on Monday with a mini-episode. Love you all!

https://www.nextstepky.org/about

nextsteptrainingprogramky@gmail.com

Susan Ballerstedt, Program Coordinator, ballerstedt@twc.com

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