Pieces For My Puzzle

When a child receives an autism diagnosis, parents often feel overwhelmed and alone. How do we best support our kids? How do we prepare them for the future? On this episode, we welcome Carol Waldman, a fierce parent advocate who shares her deeply personal journey of raising her neurodiverse son, Andrew. Carol opens up about the initial confusion of Andrew’s diagnosis and how she learned to navigate the education system to ensure he received the support he needed. Her relentless advocacy pa...

Show Notes

When a child receives an autism diagnosis, parents often
feel overwhelmed and alone. How do we best support our kids? How do we prepare
them for the future? On this episode, we welcome Carol Waldman, a fierce parent
advocate who shares her deeply personal journey of raising her neurodiverse
son, Andrew.



Carol opens up about the initial confusion of Andrew’s
diagnosis and how she learned to navigate the education system to ensure he
received the support he needed. Her relentless advocacy paid off, helping
Andrew go away to college and successfully graduate. Now, Carol is on a mission
to inspire other families so they know they do not have to walk this path
alone. We also dive into her political advocacy for neurodiversity training in
the workplace and the crucial transition into adulthood for neurodiverse individuals.



Key Discussion Points:




  • The
        Early Days:     Carol shares her story of raising Andrew, the emotions
        surrounding his initial autism diagnosis, and learning to let go of
        preconceived parenting expectations.





  • Fierce
        Advocacy:     Why advocating for neurodiverse children and adults is
        absolutely critical, and how Carol navigated the education system to get
        Andrew the right support.





  • The
        College Milestone:     The steps and support systems that helped Andrew go
        away to college and achieve his goal of graduating.





  • Life
        After 18:     Exploring the massive need for more guidance and support to
        help young adults find friends, communities, and like-minded people after
        high school.





  • Career
        Transitions:     How we can better help young adults transition into
        meaningful jobs and careers that tie directly to their passions.





  • Changing
        the Workplace:     Carol discusses her political involvement and her
        passionate advocacy for neurodiversity training in corporate environments.




Resources Mentioned:




  • Carol is currently writing a book about her journey
        raising Andrew—stay tuned for updates on its release!




·       
Phone
Number: (310) 779-8298



·       
E-mail: cnwaldman@gmail.com



 















Enjoying the show?



If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe and
leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us
bring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergent
families. Thank you!



Connect With Us: 



§  Follow
us on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle



§  Email
us:  Info@piec

What is Pieces For My Puzzle?

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 My Puzzle is more than just a podcast; it's a beacon of hope and inspiration for parents and loved ones of special needs children. Whether seeking practical tips, a fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that you're not alone in this journey, this podcast is for you.

Join me as we unravel the pieces of our puzzle together, finding strength, resilience, and, most importantly, a sense of community. Tune in for heartfelt discussions, uplifting stories, and the reassurance that there's always room for growth and joy amidst the challenges.

Subscribe now and join our supportive community, where hope shines brightest, and every piece of the puzzle matters.