Free Daily Podcast Summary
Autism for Badass Moms: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Rashidah Cartwright
Autism for Badass Moms is a powerful podcast that amplifies the voices of mothers raising children with autism. It challenges outdated narratives, advocates for meaningful change, and celebrates the extraordinary strength of women who continue to show up for their children despite overwhelming obstacles. It has become a global community where mothers can feel seen, heard, and understood. The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you seen or heard from the podcast.
Latest Episodes
The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- 2 days ago1h 1m
Ep. 149 - Autism Moms in Spain...Same Fight, Different Place with Dalisse
In this powerful international episode, Rashidah sits down with Dalisse — originally from Honduras, now living in Barcelona — who is raising two boys on the autism spectrum: Adrian and Guillermo. Both boys were diagnosed around 17 months old, but while Dalisse was learning to navigate autism evaluations, therapies, and advocacy for her children, she was also beginning a life-changing journey of her own—receiving her own autism diagnosis as an adult.Together, Rashidah and Dalisse discuss the emotional realities of parenting while discovering your own neurodivergence, the similarities and differences between autism support in Spain and the United States, and why community is essential for autism moms everywhere. Out of her family's journey came something powerful. Dalisse is the co-founder of Loving Pieces Books, a publishing company dedicated to creating inclusive children's books where autistic children can see themselves represented. What began as a way to support her own sons has become a mission to help families around the world embrace neurodiversity through meaningful storytelling.In this episode, we discuss:0:00 — Meet Dalisse from Barcelona, Spain1:09 — Early Signs & The Road to Diagnosis2:00 — "Wait and See" — A Universal Experience Across Borders5:43 — The 2 AM Google Spiral6:53 — Explaining the Diagnosis to Family & Grandparents9:19 — Processing the Guilt: "Am I a Bad Mom?"9:57 — Two Boys, Two Very Different Journeys21:05 — Autism Resources & The System in Spain vs. the US28:41 — From Digital Marketing to Children's Books35:07 — Loving Pieces Book42:47 — Traveling with Autistic Kids51:40 — Dalisse's Own Autism Diagnosis & Healing Her Inner Child54:32 — Advice for the New Autism Mom55:30 — What Makes Dalisse a Badass Mom?Connect with Dalisse: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovingpiecesbooksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovingpiecesbooks/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/loving-pieces-books-autism-childrens-books/posts/?feedView=allWebsite: lovingpiecesbooks.comAbout Loving Pieces BooksDalisse and her husband created Loving Pieces Books — a series of illustrated children's books written for autistic kids and their families, available in 4 languages (English, Spanish, Portuguese & Catalan). Books mentioned:Autism: My Invisible BackpackAutism: This is How I PartyAutism: A New School YearAutism: Calming the ChaosAutism: Confidence Starts Here(Coming soon) Autism: Our Travel AdventurePurchase on Amazon: https://a.co/d/0iRC3eRCAutism for Badass Moms is the award-winning podcast where no autism mom is left behind. Each week, host Rashidah shares honest conversations with mothers around the world about autism, advocacy, resilience, and the realities of raising neurodivergent children.Website: https://www.autismforbadassmoms.comFollow Autism for Badass Moms:Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastIf this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another autism mom, caretaker, or provider. Together, we're building a global community where every mom feels seen, heard, and supported.
- 1 weeks ago36 min
Ep. 148 - Culture Shock: Raising an Autistic Child in a Caribbean Family with Kaylyn
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Kaylyn Vega — a Puerto Rican-Dominican mom from the Bronx, now raising her four-year-old autistic daughter in Florida alongside her Jamaican husband. Kaylyn opens up about spotting the early signs of autism, pushing back against family denial rooted in cultural stigma, navigating a resistant pediatrician, and ultimately becoming a fierce advocate for her daughter and other families on the same journey. Her story is raw, real, and deeply inspiring.In this episode, we discuss:0.00 Welcome & introducing Kaylyn — from the Bronx to Florida0:26 Kaylyn's background: Puerto Rican, Dominican & her daughter's Jamaican heritage1:18 Early signs she noticed — tippy-toeing, delayed milestones, limited verbal communication2:01 Who first said "autism"? Kaylyn did — and why she already knew2:40 Cultural pushback: "She'll grow out of it"4:26 Getting the diagnosis — pushback from the pediatrician AND the preschool10:02 Finding peace in the diagnosis and mourning the "planned" future14:01 How Kaylyn's daughter is thriving today — speech, swimming, meditation15:27 Running a "tight ship" when family babysits20:13 Navigating insurance & the out-of-pocket diagnosis — what moms need to know22:37 Going back to school: psychology major, health insurance, and RBT certification26:13 Kaylyn's vision: an autism wellness advocacy business27:56 Self-care, a supportive partner, and guided meditation with her daughter29:22 How to reach Kaylyn29:42 Advice for moms struggling with family and cultural barriers31:17 What makes Kaylyn a badass? Her voiceConnect with Kaylyn:Instagram: www.instagram.com/kayykulture._Email: kaylynvega58@gmail.comIf this episode resonated with you:-Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast-Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community-Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstoodFollow Us:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast
- 2 weeks ago58 min
Ep. 147 - Dream Rewritten with Wendy
Rashidah sits down with Wendy Ernzen — mom, podcaster, and fierce advocate for families raising loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Wendy's daughter Nicola (Nic), 23, has profound autism and bipolar disorder. Wendy shares her decades-long journey through early diagnosis confusion, relentless school battles, a family crisis that spilled into the community, and ultimately finding Nic a safe, supported, and joyful home. This episode is raw, honest, and deeply moving — a must-listen for any parent in the thick of it. In this episode, we discuss:0:00 — Intro & Welcome 3:34 — Wendy Joins the Conversation 7:06 — Early Signs & The Road to Diagnosis 11:50 — School Battles & IEPs15:48 — Watching Peers Move On 19:50 — Bipolar Disorder Enters the Picture21:58 — First Crisis at 12: Psychiatric Units 26:40 — Planning for the Future 31:16 — Crisis Before Graduation 34:30 — Behaviors Spill into the Community37:00 — Crisis-Trained Officers 39:54 — Securing Housing: A Two-Month Fight 42:19 — Finding Strength44:59 — PTSD & Therapy47:22 — The Birth of Let's Plant Houses Podcast 50:36 — Advice for the Mom Who Feels Completely Alone 55:46 — What Makes Wendy Badass? 58:11 — How to Connect with Wendy Connect with Wendy: Let's Plant Houses Podcast — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-plant-houses/id1724641933https://open.spotify.com/show/2J8JhQUrkKrXaYxs8JF4Zh?si=0dac5a63b4174d46 Website: www.letsplanthouses.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/letsplanthousesLinkedIn: Wendy Ernzen If this episode resonated with you:-Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast-Leave a review to help other autism moms find thiscommunity-Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstood Follow Us: Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast
- 3 weeks ago44 min
Ep. 146 - Built Stronger by Autism with Christina
In this powerful episode, host Rashidah sits down withChristina Bell, a mom, special education graduate student, and fierce advocate for her 5-year-old son Joshie, who was diagnosed with autism at 3.5 years old.From the moment Christina suspected something was different, she didn't hesitate — she Googled, she asked questions, and when the diagnosis came, she met it with clarity and courage instead of fear.Christina takes us through her family's journey from thatfirst pediatrician conversation to starting ABA therapy, enrolling Joshie in preschool with full services, and watching him flourish within months. She opens up about the emotional layers of the process: the isolation of not having a local community, the learning curve of understanding sensory needs, and the mindset work required to stay grounded when the road gets hard. Connect with Christina:Instagram: www.instagram.com/christeenaeveFacebook: Christina Araujo In this episode, we discuss:Timestamps:0:00 — Show intro0:39 — "Build Stronger by Autism"3:55 — Meet Christina Bell4:26 — Noticing the signs & path to diagnosis8:53 — Early intervention11:14 — Shifting the stigma 13:01 — Finding community 14:49 — How Joshie changed Christina as a person16:30 — A career pivot into special education20:27 — Staying positive on hard days22:14 — Celebrating milestones & holding onto progress26:27 — Vision for a local autism moms’ group29:49 — Manifesting & retraining the brain35:25 — Advice for the mom who just got the diagnosis37:07 — Peaceful mind, peaceful heart, peaceful soul40:33 — Learning through your child's lens44:08 — What makes Christina a badass?45:19 — Where to find Christina If this episode resonated with you:-Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast-Leave a review to help other autism moms find thiscommunity-Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen ormisunderstood Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast Join us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories andinsightful discussions that empower and uplift.
- Jun 30, 20261h 20m
Ep. 145 - Stage 4 Cancer Tried to Take Her - Motherhood Kept Her Here with Kecia
In this deeply moving episode of Autism for Badass Moms, Rashidah welcomes Kecia Johnson, a 42-year-old mother, 5-year colorectal cancer survivor, autism advocate, and an eight-time author from Denver, Colorado. She shares a journey that is almost impossible to imagine. Kecia shares the unimaginable journey that began in early 2020 when severe rectal pain was repeatedly dismissed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—until an emergency biopsy revealed colorectal cancer.What followed was months of chemotherapy, radiation, severe treatment complications, second-degree burns, isolation, and a fight to survive.But surviving cancer was only the beginning.Kecia opens up about the lasting effects of treatment, including radiation toxicity, nerve damage, brittle bones, early menopause, chronic pain, and mobility challenges. As she struggled to rebuild her own health, she also began recognizing developmental and sensory differences in her daughter, Journei. Kecia pursued evaluations that ultimately led to an autism diagnosis. About Our GuestKecia Johnson is the creator of the Cancer Could NEVA healing movement. Her journey is rooted in resilience, faith, and transformation. She uses her voice to break stigmas around trauma, chronic illness, and neurodiversity; creating safe spaces where women can heal, be seen, and rise boldly in their truth.Kecia also founded Kolourful MUVA to empower mothers of children with autism and special needs. Providing emotional support, resources, and income tools, she helps women move from survival to purpose. Through international speaking, podcasting, and community work, Kecia demonstrates how to rebuild and thrive with impact, even in the hardest seasons.Kecia resides in Colorado with her family.Connect with Kecia:Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamkeciajFacebook: iamkeciajTik Tok: iamkeciajIn this episode we discuss:00:00 Badass Moms Welcome00:57 Global Community Thanks01:57 Meet Keisha Johnson05:49 Early Symptoms Dismissed08:29 Cancer Diagnosis Shock11:14 Chemo and Radiation 15:50 Isolation 20:48 Natural Remedies Turning Point30:11 New Setbacks35:24 Advocacy and Sensory Clues40:06 Back To California41:51 Autism Diagnosis 44:45 Moving to Colorado45:58 Mom Support System48:27 Cancer Recovery Reality49:45 Advocacy Awakening53:00 Judgment and Stigma01:01:07 School Readiness Plan01:02:38 Ignorance01:06:39 Kolourful MUVA Mission01:08:59 Launching and Resources01:13:54 Badass AdviceIf this episode resonated with you:-Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast-Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community-Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstoodInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastJoin us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions that empower and uplift.
- Jun 23, 202650 min
Ep. 144 - Autism Acceptance in African Communities with Karidiatou
In this powerful episode, host Rashidah sits down with Karidiatou Coulibaly (known as Kadi), founder of Moussa Unfolded Hope Initiative (MUHI), to discuss her family's autism journey and the unique challenges many African families face when navigating disability, stigma, and cultural expectations.Raised in an African community where autism was rarely discussed, Karidiatou found herself searching for answers after her son, Moussa, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. What followed was a journey of learning, advocacy, and a commitment to changing how autism is understood within African communities.Together, they explore the impact of cultural beliefs, the silence that often surrounds disability, and the importance of representation, awareness, and acceptance.About Our GuestKaridiatou Coulibaly is the founder of Moussa Unfolded and the Moussa Unfolded Hope Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families and transforming how autism is understood within African communities. Originally from Ivory Coast (West Africa), Kadi came to the United States with little knowledge of autism — because in her community, it simply wasn't talked about.She holds a bachelor's degree in agribusiness economics and a master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). She is also developing a children's animated series titled, "The Land Where We Speak", designed to represent children with diverse disabilities and teach inclusivity through storytelling.Karidiatou resides in Georgia with her familyConnect with Karidiatou:Instagram: www.instagram.com/moussa_unfoldedTikTok: moussa_unfolded13In this episode, we discuss:0:00 – Welcome0:42 – Episode Overview1:12 – Autism Stigma in African Communities2:06 – Meet Karidiatou Coulibaly 3:31 – The Conversation Begins4:08 – Musa Turns 135:11 – Karidiatou's Story5:28 – Moussa's Early Diagnosis 7:18 – Cultural Barriers: being from the African diaspora8:30 – Karidiatou Never Hides Autism14:19 – Karidiatou's Hearing Loss Journey20:49 – Moussa's Growth & Independence22:56 – Building Daily Life Skills27:45 – Returning to School30:05 – The Story Behind Moussa Unfolded34:03 – Supporting Other Moms47:14 – What makes Karidiatou a Badass Mom?If this episode resonated with you:-Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast on your favorite platform-Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community-Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstoodInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcastJoin us every Tuesday for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions that empower and uplift.
- Jun 16, 20261h 25m
Ep. 143 - When Life Didn't Let Up: Grief, Child Protective Services, and a Mother's Fight to Hold it Together with Eugenia
In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah speaks with Eugenia Woods, a mother, grandmother, and advocate from Long Island, New York, whose autism parenting journey was shaped by bullying, grief, homeschooling, and a difficult encounter with Child Protective Services.After her son Juan received an autism diagnosis at age 9,Eugenia found herself fighting for his educational needs while navigating multiple personal and family challenges. When the school system failed to provide the support he needed, she made the courageous decision to homeschool him for six years—despite facing scrutiny and resistance along the way.Eugenia shares her story of resilience, advocacy, anddetermination, offering hope to parents who are fighting for their children while trying to hold themselves together. In this episode, we discuss:0:00 – Intro & welcome 0:50 – Being a parent of color in the autism space2:20 – Stigma in Black & Brown communities 3:40 – Sensory tools & educating family 4:58 – Early signs at ages 2–3 6:05 – Juan's late diagnosis at age 9 6:40 – Fighting for a neuropsych eval 10:20 – Navigating IEP meetings 11:35 – Bias from school professionals 13:10 – Your right to record meetings 14:20 – Being dismissed as a Black mother 17:57 – CPS called by the school 18:41 – Going to court against the district 19:15 – When did the signs first appear? 23:20 – The pediatrician who actually listened 26:00 – School anxiety, regression & bullying 28:10 – "I'm sad and no one cares" 31:45 – CPS case resolved 32:50 – Homeschooling begins 34:41 – 6 years of homeschooling 38:00 – Finding resources at the library 41:33 – 18 rejections; Gersh Academy says yes 42:48 – Juan thrives; the teacher who changed everything 45:40 – Pursuing Juan's GED during COVID 47:13 – Waiting for the results 48:44 – He passed! 49:40 – Loss & grief during the pandemic 51:21 – Juan's suicidal ideation 53:20 – A mother's heartbreak 53:51 – Eugenia's COVID hospitalization & kidney failure56:20 – "Mom, who will care for me when you'regone?" 57:15 – Healing through community & faith 59:40 – Juan's gift: tech skills & purpose 1:00:12 – Eugenia's liturgical dance ministry 1:02:20 – Laughing with Juan now 1:04:50 – Hiding her illness from her kids 1:07:10 – Give yourself 5 minutes 1:09:15 – Finding herself again at 50 1:10:30 – Becoming a grandmother 1:11:05 – First college grad in the family 1:14:31 – How to connect with Eugenia 1:15:10 – Eugenia's published book 1:17:00 – Women's empowerment organizations 1:18:27 – Emmy-winning play & acting work 1:19:20 – You can't tell God what you won't do 1:23:20 – What being a badass means to Eugenia 1:24:15 – Encouragement for struggling parents 1:25:35 – Outro Connect with Eugenia:Instagram: www.instagram.com/genias_gemsFacebook: Genia Lin Connect with Autism for Badass Moms:Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to:-Follow the podcast-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform-Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across the globe-Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this
- Jun 9, 202637 min
Ep. 142 - How an Infection Led Us to Autism with Nykyta
In this heartfelt episode of Autism for Badass Moms, hostRashidah sits down with Nykyta "Kyta" Arnold, a Georgia mom of three, to share the story of her youngest son Omry's autism journey. After the infection resulted in hearing loss, speech therapy was recommended to support his development. It was during those therapy sessions that the possibility ofautism was first raised.Nykyta opens up about navigating the uncertainty ofdevelopmental delays, processing an unexpected diagnosis, and learning to trust her instincts as a mother. She reflects on the fears, questions, and emotional challenges that many autism moms face, while also sharing how her experienceraising two neurotypical boys helped prepare her for a path she never anticipated.Throughout the conversation, Nykyta discusses faith,resilience, advocacy, and the importance of embracing the child in front of you rather than the expectations you once held. Her story is a reminder that while life can change in an instant, parents are often stronger than they realize.Whether you're newly navigating a diagnosis or years intoyour journey, this episode offers encouragement, understanding, and hope from a mother who has walked a similar path. In this episode, we discuss:0:00 – Episode Intro 0:55 – Guest bio — Nykyta Arnold3:27 – Welcome Nykyta / getting into her story3:48 – Omry's story begins — birthday party, high fever, urgent carevisit7:33 – The 4 AM call: positive bacteria test, rushed back to thehospital9:36 – How Motrin actually saved Omry's life (the anaphylactic reaction)11:10 – Motrin allergy revealed + urticaria explained14:10 – Nykyta’s cousin (the pediatric nurse) spots hearing loss15:16 – Babies Can't Wait program fast-tracks Omry to speech therapy15:48 – Speech therapist recommends autism testing17:21 – Diagnosis around Omry’s second birthday17:22 – Anger, guilt, and the "what ifs"19:37 – Carrying the blame of daycare during COVID19:38 – How is Omry doing now? ABA therapy, first words, sassy attitude26:18 – Finding community — the power of autism mom groups27:22 – Nykyta starts giving back (inclusive Santa experience)29:49 – Where to find Nykyta33:10 – Message to the mom struggling with the "what ifs"34:08 – "Give yourself grace. You are not alone." Connect with Nykyta:Instagram: www.instagram.com/jasmine_amoreInstagram: www.instagram.com/omar.autism.support Connect with Autism for Badass MomsInstagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcastFacebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to: -Follow the podcast-Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform-Leave a review to help us reach more autism moms across theglobe-Share this episode with a mom who needs to hear this
About Autism for Badass Moms
Autism for Badass Moms is a powerful podcast that amplifies the voices of mothers raising children with autism. It challenges outdated narratives, advocates for meaningful change, and celebrates the extraordinary strength of women who continue to show up for their children despite overwhelming obstacles. It has become a global community where mothers can feel seen, heard, and understood. The content in this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of anything you seen or heard from the podcast.
Customized Recaps
AI-powered recaps with compact key takeaways, quotes, and insights.
Straight to Your Inbox
Get key takeaways from Autism for Badass Moms in a 5-minute read.
Save Hours Every Week
Stay current on your favorite podcasts without falling behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Podzilla's Autism for Badass Moms daily summary?
It's a free AI-powered email that summarizes new episodes of Autism for Badass Moms as soon as they're published. You get the key takeaways, notable quotes, and links & mentions — all in a quick read.
How does the Autism for Badass Moms podcast summary work?
When a new episode drops, our AI transcribes and analyzes it, then generates a personalized summary tailored to your interests and profession. It's delivered to your inbox every morning.
Is this an official Autism for Badass Moms product?
No. Podzilla is an independent service that summarizes publicly available podcast content. We're not affiliated with or endorsed by Rashidah Cartwright.
Can I get summaries of other podcasts too?
Absolutely! The free plan covers up to 3 podcasts. Upgrade to Pro for 15, or Premium for 50. Browse our full catalog at /podcasts.
How often does Autism for Badass Moms release new episodes?
Autism for Badass Moms publishes weekly. Our AI generates a summary within hours of each new episode.
What topics does Autism for Badass Moms cover?
Autism for Badass Moms covers topics including Education, Self-Improvement. Our AI identifies the specific themes in each episode and highlights what matters most to you.
Start getting Autism for Badass Moms summaries tomorrow morning.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.