Best April Ratchford MS OT/L Podcasts (2025)

1
Transforming Trauma into Gold: Healing, Growth, and Empowerment with Sylvia Moore Myers 36:55

4h ago36:55

36:55

Hey there, friends! 💛 Welcome back to Adulting with Autism! Today, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Sylvia Moore Myers—the powerful voice behind GoldScars.com and author of Gold Scars. After enduring unimaginable trauma, including the heartbreaking loss of her teenage son, Sylvia embarked on an 18-year healing journey that’s nothing…

1
Breaking Free from Toxic Workplaces: Kelsey Neff on Building Inclusive Cultures by Design 41:52

1h ago41:52

41:52

Hey friend! Ever worked in a place that felt more like survival than success? You’re not alone—and today’s guest, Kelsey Neff, is here to flip the script. Kelsey is the founder of By Design Consulting, author of 52 Weeks of Impact, and a former nonprofit professional who left the burnout hamster wheel to help leaders actually lead. After years of n…

1
Empowering Autistic Movers: The Dance Studio Built for Neurodivergence 34:59

1h ago34:59

34:59

Hey there, friend! 💃 In today’s inspiring episode of Adulting with Autism, we step into a space where movement meets neurodivergent empowerment—the incredible Autistic Wings Dance Company, a nonprofit studio founded by mother-daughter duo Amanda and Leta in Colorado Springs. Autistic Wings isn’t your average dance program—it’s a trauma-informed, se…

1
Transforming Trauma with Dr. Foojan Zeine: The Science Behind the Foojan App 37:41

1h ago37:41

37:41

Hey there, friend! 🌟 Ever feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional shutdown—and wonder why you can’t just “snap out of it”? In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we sit down with Dr. Foojan Zeine—renowned psychotherapist, international speaker, and the creator of Awareness Integration Theory (AIT) and the Foojan App. …

1
Beyond Empty Nesting: Hannah Bankier on the Birdie Launch Life 39:40

2h ago39:40

39:40

Hey there, friend! 🦋 In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re talking all things parenting, identity, and transitioning into adulthood—with a twist. Meet Hannah Bankier, career transition coach, mama of two, and founder of Birdie Launcher™, a movement that’s redefining what it means to be an “empty nester.” Because the truth is—the n…

1
Unmasking Autism: Sol Smith on Identity, Healing & Finding Your Voice 49:07

22h ago49:07

49:07

Hey there, lovely listener! 😊 In today’s episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re joined by Sol Smith—autistic author, former college professor, viral TikTok educator, and the voice behind the much-anticipated book, The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery (launching April 22, 2025!). Sol shares his late-in-life autism diagnosis, the burnout spiral tha…

1
Designing for the Neurodivergent Mind: Creating Inclusive Spaces That Heal 35:47

2d ago35:47

35:47

Hey friends! ✨ In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design. Stephanie is on a mission to make every space—homes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildings—neuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe.…

1
Neurodivergent Voices: Thomas R. Wilson on Advocacy, Healing & Storytelling 43:28

3d ago43:28

43:28

Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism, where we dig deep into real experiences, big emotions, and life through a neurodivergent lens. This episode features the incredible Thomas R. Wilson—storyteller, community leader, and nationally recognized advocate for neurodivergent and mental health communities. From a childhood filled with bull…

1
Neurodivergent & Burned Out? Sue Day on Reclaiming Your Strengths 39:27

4d ago39:27

39:27

Hey friend! If you’ve ever felt burned out, overstimulated, or like your brain is doing the most when you need it to do the least—this episode is for you. Today on Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Sue Day—ADHD coach, neurodivergent advocate, and founder of Pathways Forward Coaching—who helps women and late-diagnosed adults reconnect with their s…

1
Thriving with Neurodivergence: Dr. Matt Zakreski on Unmasking, Burnout & Real-Life Success 48:32

5d ago48:32

48:32

Hey guys hey! If you've ever felt like you’re “too much,” “not enough,” or constantly code-switching just to survive—this one’s for you. In this energizing and empowering episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by psychologist, author, and nationally recognized speaker Dr. Matt Zakreski, aka Dr. Matt. Together, we pull back the curtain on what …

1
Rewiring the Brain: How to Break Free from Negative Self-Talk 37:47

6d ago37:47

37:47

Hey friend! Ever spiral into negative self-talk and wonder why your brain just won’t chill? You're not alone—and you’re definitely not broken. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with award-winning psychologist Dr. Betsy Holmberg, author of the upcoming book The Unkind Mind (releasing June 1 from New Harbinger Publications). But thi…

1
College and Autism: What Readiness Really Looks Like 54:56

7d ago54:56

54:56

Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism—your go-to space for navigating life with neurodivergence, one real conversation at a time. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the world of college readiness for autistic students. Whether you’re a young adult on the spectrum or a parent helping your teen prepare for higher education, you’re g…

1
Breaking the Cycle: Shanenn Bryant on Healing Subconscious Patterns 41:24

8d ago41:24

41:24

Hey guys hey! Ever feel like life’s on repeat—same drama, different day? Whether it’s in your relationships, your work, or that inner critic who never shuts up... there might be a reason: your subconscious is running the show. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Shanenn Bryant—Pattern Transformation Expert, creator of Top Self, a…

1
Autistic & Leading: How Aaron Helton Transformed People-Pleasing into Empowered Leadership 41:23

9d ago41:23

41:23

Hey friends! Today’s episode brings in Aaron Helton — an autistic executive coach who’s rewriting what leadership can look like for neurodivergent adults. Raised by a Tiger Mom and homeschooled with a grading scale where a “B” meant failure, Aaron knows what it means to live under pressure. From years of masking and people-pleasing to running from …

1
College With Confidence: How Mercyhurst’s AIM Program Empowers Autistic Students to Thrive 41:48

10d ago41:48

41:48

🎓 College doesn’t have to be overwhelming for autistic students — and Mercyhurst University proves it. In this episode, I’m joined by Ryan Palm, Director of the AIM Program at Mercyhurst, to explore how their college creates real support systems for neurodivergent students. From autism-specific housing and taco night social clubs, to personalized a…

1
From Prison to Purpose: Matt Melvin on Autism, Faith & Second Chances 27:37

11d ago27:37

27:37

Hey guys hey! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism, where we keep it real about life, growth, and healing through a neurodivergent lens. Today’s guest is Matt Melvin, author of Bullied Behind Bars: A Gay Christian Trump Supporter Goes to Prison. His story? Unapologetically raw, wildly unique—and absolutely necessary. We talk about: 🚨 How autism, im…

1
Finding Career Success with ADHD: Coaching Insights from Shell Mendelson 59:02

12d ago59:02

59:02

Hey guys hey! If you’ve ever felt burned out, stuck in the wrong job, or like your ADHD brain just doesn’t "fit" into traditional career paths—you’re not alone. Today’s guest is Shell Mendelson, a powerhouse ADHD career coach with over 30 years of experience helping adults ditch the job-hopping, escape toxic work environments, and build careers tha…

1
Flipping the Script on Autism Employment: Tom D’Eri of Rising Tide U 34:36

13d ago34:36

34:36

Hey guys hey! Get ready for a game-changing conversation with Tom D’Eri, founder of Rising Tide Car Wash and executive director of Rising Tide U. In this episode of Adulting with Autism, Tom shares how he turned his brother Andrew’s autism journey into a national model for inclusive employment—one that’s profitable, powerful, and proving that autis…

1
Thriving on the Spectrum: Tracey Van Hawkins on Autism, Advocacy & Real Support 39:10

14d ago39:10

39:10

Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Tracey Van Hawkins—mom, innovator, and founder of the Thriving on the Spectrum app and platform. Tracey shares her deeply personal story of navigating her son’s autism diagnosis, the moment everything changed with the help of one observant preschool teacher, and how she t…

1
Harnessing Your Neurospicy Superpower: Dr. Kristen Williamson on ADHD, Autism & Mental Health 51:40

15d ago51:40

51:40

Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re embracing our “neurospicy” superpowers with the hilarious, brilliant, and wildly relatable Dr. Kristen Williamson—licensed professional counselor, DEIB speaker, and proud ringleader of a wonderfully chaotic neurodivergent family. Whether you’re navigating sensory overload, dodging burnout…

1
Financial Freedom for ADHD & Autistic Adults: Budgeting That Makes Sense 33:59

16d ago33:59

33:59

Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re diving into the intersection of money, mental health, and neurodivergence with therapist and financial wellness coach Rachel Duncan—founder of the Money Healing Club. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by budgeting, struggled with impulsive spending, or just thought “I’m not good with money,…

1
Late-Diagnosed & Thriving: Unmasking Autism with Josselyn Crane 40:26

17d ago40:26

40:26

Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with Josselyn Crane—neurodivergent coach, educator, content creator, and co-founder of a thriving social club for autistic and ADHD adults. We're diving deep into the emotional rollercoaster of a late-in-life autism or ADHD diagnosis, and what comes next when you finally hav…

1
Autism, Confidence & Success: Sam Mitchell’s Journey to Community and Impact 31:47

18d ago31:47

31:47

Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by the incredible Sam Mitchell—college student, public speaker, podcast host, and founder of the nonprofit Autism Rocks and Rolls Corporation. Sam’s not just advocating for the autism community—he’s changing the narrative entirely. We dive into Sam’s journey from high school to colle…

1
Transform Your Sleep & Mental Health with Tim Thomas’ Breathwork Secrets 42:59

19d ago42:59

42:59

Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Tim Thomas—former Special Forces operator turned breathwork expert, sleep coach, and veteran mental health advocate. Tim takes us on a journey into the science (and soul) of transformational breathing techniques, showing how your lungs might just be the best pharmacy you …

1
Dyslexia, ADHD & Fatherhood: Navigating Neurodivergence with Mike Forrester 41:14

20d ago41:14

41:14

Hey guys hey! In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re talking all about neurodivergent fatherhood, dyslexia, ADHD, and breaking generational trauma with the incredible Mike Forrester—men’s transformation coach and host of the Living Fearless Today podcast. Mike gets candid about receiving his dyslexia and ADHD diagnoses later in lif…

1
Navigating Autism & Adulthood: Real Talk with Doug Blecher of Autism Personal Coach 35:09

21d ago35:09

35:09

Hey guys hey! In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re talking all things autistic life coaching, transitions, and empowerment with the amazing Doug Blecher, founder of Autism Personal Coach. Doug joins us to share how his Autistic-led coaching team helps teens and adults navigate real-world challenges like independence, executive functioning…

1
From Self-Doubt to Self-Confidence: How to Find Your Voice & Lead with Impact | ft. Steve G. Gallegos 41:29

22d ago41:29

41:29

🎙️ Welcome to Adulting with Autism—where real talk meets real growth. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Steve "Stevie G" Gallegos—U.S. Marine, former police officer, attorney, and transformational speaker—who shares his inspiring journey from being undocumented to becoming a U.S. citizen, with a life-changing encounter with President Ronal…

1
Thriving While Queer, BIPOC & Autistic with Zipporah Jarmon 36:05

25d ago36:05

36:05

Hey guys hey! 💬 In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, I sit down with Zipporah Jarmon, founder of Within Me Coaching, who’s transforming lives through inclusive, identity-affirming life coaching for queer, BIPOC, and neurodivergent adults. We get into the real-life tools and mindset shifts needed to navigate transitions like moving out,…

1
Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Mindset, Resilience & Martial Arts with Gene Burke 35:33

28d ago35:33

35:33

Hey there! 👋 Ready to transform your mindset and step into your full potential? This episode is for YOU! 🚀 Today, I’m joined by Jean Burke, a leadership mentor and martial arts expert, to explore how martial arts philosophy can build resilience, discipline, and unstoppable leadership skills. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ The mindset shift that turns chal…

1
Unmasking Narcissism: The Hidden Connection to Neurodivergence & Mental Health 39:40

28d ago39:40

39:40

Hey guys, hey! Happy Saturday! 🌟 It’s the weekend, and today’s episode is packed with a powerful, eye-opening conversation you don’t want to miss. Have you ever felt like life threw too many obstacles at you? You’re not alone. Today, I’m joined by Rebecca Armstead—a trauma-informed speaker, master-certified coach, and fierce advocate for neurodiver…

1
Workplace Success for Autistic Professionals: Strategies for Career Growth & Inclusion 3:24

1M ago3:24

3:24

Hey friends! 🌟 Navigating the workplace as an autistic professional? Whether you're stepping into your first job or facing challenges in a corporate environment, this episode is packed with game-changing strategies to help you thrive! Today, I’m joined by Morag Barrett, a leadership and workplace culture expert, to break down: ✔️ Bridging the gap b…

1
Neurodivergent Minds Uncovered: Secrets to ADHD, Autism & Unlocking Your Full Potential 44:58

1M ago44:58

44:58

Hey there, fabulous listener! 🎉 April's bringing all the awareness vibes with Autism Awareness Month & Occupational Therapy Month on the horizon. I'm diving into a whopping 30 days of juicy content across YouTube and podcasts. Can I pull it off? Stick around and see if this 49-year-old can hang! 🎂PS, there's an episode on my birthday! 🎉 Join Stacey…

1
From Trauma to Triumph: Overcoming Darkness & Reclaiming Your Life 43:29

1M ago43:29

43:29

Hey, happy Wednesday! How's your week going? I'm still catching up after being under the weather, and I'm behind on just about everything – t-shirts, recording, you name it. And I'm really missing Z this week as he's away figuring out his vocational path, which makes the house feel a bit too quiet. In this week's episode, we're delving into stories…

1
Trusts vs. Wills: Securing a Stable Future for Autistic Young Adults & Their Families 46:18

2M ago46:18

46:18

Hey there, amazing listeners! 🌟 This episode is all about planning for the future - yeah, the tough stuff. We’re diving into how you can protect your family's assets and make life a bit easier for your kids, especially those with special needs. Oscar Vasquez, our fantastic guest, is here to break down all you need to know about living trusts and wh…

1
Mastering Life’s Challenges: Balance Logic & Creativity for Success 38:48

2M ago38:48

38:48

Hey friends! This episode is a real treat as we dive into the art of life planning with the amazing Aliki on the 'Adulting with Autism' podcast. She's not just an entrepreneur, but also an engineer, artist, singer-songwriter, and muralist, blending creativity with logic like a pro. Aliki shares her powerful journey of balancing different sides of t…

1
Unlock Your Inner Calm: A Proven Guide to Emotional Freedom 44:01

2M ago44:01

44:01

Hey there, happy Saturday! How's your weekend going? I'm genuinely thrilled it's the weekend because it means I get to spend some time with you amazing people. 😊 We've all been there—caught in the loops of trauma and emotional turmoil. Moving forward seems impossible, and advice to journal or meditate doesn't always help. But on today's episode, my…

1
From Bullying to Breakthrough: Maikel Michel’s Journey to Empowerment 31:54

2M ago31:54

31:54

Hey there, amazing listeners! Welcome to an episode that's close to the heart—unraveling the incredible journey of Maikel Michel. Once bullied to the brink, Maikel hit rock bottom but chose a path of resilience and self-discovery. This episode is a beacon of hope for anyone who's ever struggled with self-esteem and confidence. Maikel's story is all…

1
From Snowy Days to True Crime: Unraveling Secrets in Kentucky 53:23

2M ago53:23

53:23

Hey there! How's your weekend going? Can you believe February is flying by already? Here in Kentucky, we're having a weather rollercoaster with snow, spring, and a touch of summer. Personally, I’m so ready for spring - I can't wait to start gardening. Snow? Ugh, I’m over it! Anyway, I wanted to chat with you about something intriguing. Do you ever …

1
Empowering Autism Caregivers: Samantha Wittenberg’s Inspiring Journey 21:54

2M ago21:54

21:54

Hey guys, hey. Happy Wednesday! How's the week going for you? Over here in Kentucky, we are gearing up for yet another blizzard, and let's just say it's been too much. I'm beyond ready for spring—mainly because driving with a coat on is the worst! But today, let’s dive into something equally important. We're chatting about caregiver coaching for pa…

1
Overcoming Burnout: Expert Tips for Long-Term Results 43:28

2M ago43:28

43:28

Hey everyone! Hope you're greeting the weekend with a smile and had an amazing Valentine’s Day, filled with love not only from partners but also from family. 😊 I’m back with another chat from the Adulting with Autism podcast, and today we’re diving into the all too real struggle of burnout. Joining me is Michael D. Levitt, the Chief Burnout Officer…

1
Building Meaningful Connections: Coach Lee Hopkins on Unlocking the Power of Friendship 39:49

2M ago39:49

39:49

Hey friends! 🌟 This week we're wrapping up our favorite holiday chat - yep, you guessed it, Valentine's Day! Whether you're planning to celebrate it with a partner, family, or friends, we've got an enlightening episode for you. We welcome back the amazing Coach Lee Hopkins, who delves deep into the essence of friendships and why they form the very …

1
"Running Love Like a Business: Insights from Dr. Robin Buckley on Relationship Success" 49:25

3M ago49:25

49:25

Hey there! Ready for the weekend? This episode of the podcast is all about keeping relationships thriving, and let me tell you, I almost skipped my usual podcast routine because my fiancé, Shane, would say I'm on hyper-focus mode! Ever wondered how running your relationship like a business can lead to lasting success? We've got the incredible Dr. R…

1
Building Bridges: Navigating Relationships and Embracing Self-Love 36:01

3M ago36:01

36:01

🎙️ Welcome to Your Self-Love Journey! 💖 This February, whether you’re feeling warm and fuzzy or a little left out, we’ve all had those moments of questioning what love really means. But don’t worry—this episode of Adulting with Autism has you covered! I’m chatting with Jonathan Aslay, a top dating and relationship coach who’s here to help us embrac…

1
"Valentine’s Day Unplugged: Reimagining Love and Relationships" 47:14

3M ago47:14

47:14

Let's get honest: Valentine's Day can be messy, confusing, and downright daunting. But hey, we're changing the game! This podcast episode is your new guide to relationships, not just romantic ones but those deep friendships too. We're diving into Galentine's Day fun and the art of hanging out with your pals, minus the romance pressure. Feeling unsu…

1
Redefining Respect: Julie Pham's Seven Forms Framework 38:23

3M ago38:23

38:23

Hey guys, hey! Happy Wednesday! How are you holding up for the midweek? It's hump day! As January winds down, whether you've stuck to dry January or decided it's not for you, we get it. We're all just trying to start the year right, even if it means navigating a few bumpy roads. And speaking of navigation, today's episode is a real treat as we dive…

1
🎙️ Mastering Goals with No-BS OKRs: Featuring Sarah Lobkovich 36:11

3M ago36:11

36:11

Happy Saturday, friends! 🎉 As January wraps up, how are those New Year's resolutions coming along? If your goals feel like overwhelming mega-tasks, don’t worry—I’ve got just the episode to help you turn it around. This week, I’m joined by Sarah Lobkovich, a former strategy executive turned powerhouse coach and author. Sarah’s on a mission to revolu…

1
🎙️ Unlocking Neurodivergent Potential: Insights from Kate Paullin 42:26

3M ago42:26

42:26

Happy Wednesday, friends! Are you ready to work smarter, not harder? This week, we’re exploring how to align with your brain's unique strengths instead of fighting against it. 🌟 Join me as I chat with Kate Paullin, a certified coach and mentor for neurodivergent individuals. Kate shares her personal journey of discovering her own neurodivergence, h…

1
Finding Your Sweet Spot in the Workplace 40:53

3M ago40:53

40:53

Hey guys, hey! Happy Saturday! 😊 It's the weekend, and I am here for it. But we've got a real talk on our hands today about jobs. So often, we hear "my job hates me" or "I hate my job." But maybe, just maybe, it's not about the job itself but the environment you're in. Join us as we chat with Aimes Hyde, who took the brave step of leaving her path …

1
Empowering Change: Malumir Logan on Advocacy, Neurodivergence, and Supporting Independence 54:43

3M ago54:43

54:43

Hey there! 🌟 In this heartfelt and enlightening episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re joined by the inspiring Malumir Logan—an accomplished leader with two decades of experience in policy change, advocacy, and education. As an ambiguously racialized and neurodivergent individual, Malumir shares her powerful journey of breaking barriers and creatin…

1
Unlocking Financial Freedom: Expert Strategies for Smarter Money Management and Independence 43:24

4M ago43:24

43:24

Hey, guys. Happy Saturday! I hope you're all staying warm and safe from the winter storms, unlike us here in Kentucky wishing for less snow! 😂 Today, I upgraded to some fancy light blue headphones, and I'm feeling tech-savvy. But let's cut to the chase - it's not about headphones; it's about money, money, money! We're diving into an essential topic…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

April Ratchford MS OT/L Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen