Rising Voices: Career Journeys and Autism Advocacy

Big and Bold and Unapologetic

This month's episode, we're joined by the incredible Dr. Deshanna Reed for a deeply moving and insightful conversation about her personal story and professional journey. Dr. Reed offers a unique perspective, shaped by her experiences as a sibling and an upbringing that truly defied the norm. Now Dr. Reed and siblings carry out their family's spirit to be big, bold and unapologetic in the world in which we live. 
Dr. Reed shares what it was like being raised by parents who wrote their own playbook when it came to caring for individuals with higher support needs. As part of a Black family with four children, her parents were true pioneers, courageously and unapologetically embracing their community while navigating the complexities of their children's needs.
Despite the challenges, Dr. Reed's unwavering commitment makes it possible for other families in the community to share the beauty of their family members, leaving an inspiring legacy of love, resilience, and advocacy. Her work extends beyond her home state of Texas, and as a mother of four, she also reflects on the next generation of courageous minds. 
Follow Dr. Reed on social media and connect with her on LinkedIn where she actively shares stories, insight and updates on her professional endeavors. 
Books: 
https://a.co/d/d3IfhMc
https://a.co/d/6gbGQLB
https://a.co/d/bfIcrPG
 
TEDx Raleigh: 
https://youtu.be/gsCfXucmSlU?si=Si7gLFtXxAINtEkE
TEDx Columbia College SC:
https://youtu.be/83upuKXLi6E?si=T1TANET9-JL-T6NC

Writing is a Tiny Reminder of Home

Step between the pages as we celebrate NY Times Best Selling American author JD Barker with us! He is best known for incorporating elements of crime, mystery, horror, science fiction, and the supernatural into suspenseful, chilling thrillers.
Diagnosed with ASD at the age of 22, JD opens up about his life's journey, reflecting on his diagnosis, professional relationships, marriage, the twists and turns of his incredible writing career, and more. This special episode is released in May, marking his upcoming third book release of 2025. Follow JD on social media and explore his suspense thrillers by visiting www.jdbarker.com

Mother's Day 2025

Celebrate the incredible mothers within the disability community with us in this special episode of Rising Voices: Career Journeys and Autism Advocacy. Recognizing the diverse forms motherhood can take, we honor the instrumental role mothers have played in shaping policy, developing vital programs, and leading powerful advocacy efforts across the globe for decades. Their courage and initiative inspire us as they fearlessly tackle obstacles and create new possibilities for their loved ones. This episode also reflects on a special milestone: our podcast journey began on Mother's Day 2024, with our first recording. You will hear a piece of that recording, and a valuable conversation with an upcoming guest, who is a mother of four, an autism sibling, and a trailblazer in our community. Happy Mother's Day to all! 
 

I Found a Place Where I Belong

We are excited to welcome our first international guest from South Africa. Dr. Emile Gouws. Dr. Emile Gouws is an Autism and International disability activist. He was the former Vice Chairman Autism South Africa. Member of Commonwealth Disability Forum, representing underrepresented groups. He is the current president of the Board of Directors at the Interdisciplinary Council for Development and Learning (ICDL). He is a Postdoc fellow in the Department of Inclusive Education at the University of South Africa (UNISA). AJ and Dr. Gouws conversation dives into his personal story and how self-advocacy provided him with a sense of belonging. 

Listen to Them; Meet Them Where They're At

Robert Schmus, MSW, LCSW, serves as a mental health professional, as well as an autistic self advocate. In his practice, Robert supports the neurodiverse community, including autistic individuals, using a variety of therapeutic interventions. His experience as a clinical professional on the autism spectrum places him in a unique role. As a self-advocate, Robert has experience educating communities on topics relating to the autistic and neurodiverse communities, such as employment, relationships, mental health, independence, and self advocacy. He has done this through podcast interviews and speaking at conferences. Such examples include being a keynote speaker at the 44th Annual Philadelphia Regional Developmental Disabilities Conference at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia in October 2022, being on a panel for the United Nations/Institute of Neurodiversity’s Autism Awareness Day in April 2024, as well as conducting a workshop on social networking at the Massachusetts Advocates Standing Strong (MASS) 25th Gala and Self Advocacy Conference in May 2023. He and a colleague have even created a group where they offer such services called Schmus & St. Clair (https://schmus898.wixsite.com/schmusstclair). He can also be reached by email at schmus898@gmail.com and on his SpeakerHub page at https://speakerhub.com/speaker/robert-schmus.
 
Connect with Robert:
LinkedIn
Speaker Hub

I Just Fell in Love with the Science

This episode is beyond inspirational! In honor and celebration of Black History Month, we address isolation in the field of ABA, marginalized communities, mentorship, impostor syndrome and more. To learn more about Jeron Trotman, follow him on Linkedin, and visit the BMBA network, follow along for virtual and in-person events, and listen to the Beyond The Science Podcast. 

A Desire For Learning

Join AJ & Danielle on a journey of personal & professional growth.Explore their global adventures, including Romania & India.Hear about encounters with world leaders & life-changing experiences. We invite you to share this episode with anyone seeking inspiration, interested in international experiences, or curious about personal & professional development.

Little Did I Know How Special He Would Be

Amy Ursitti, cofounder & secretary of Profound Autism Alliance, advocates for individuals with profound autism & ID. Driven by her brother Jack's diagnosis, she leads the Sibling Action Network, empowering siblings to support each other & improve lives. As a rising M1 at Weill Cornell, she aims to enhance the quality of life for those with profound autism as a physician. Outside of medicine, she enjoys running (training for her 4th marathon!) and spending time with loved ones.

But the Trajectory Changed Again

Dr. Stephen Shore, an autistic advocate with decades of experience, shares his inspiring journey. From his childhood to adulthood, he discusses his challenges, triumphs, and the opportunities that arose from his unique perspective. Dr. Shore, a best-selling author and consultant, offers valuable insights into autism, education, career development, and embracing transitions.

Re-Imagining Success

We are excited to introduce you to Sam Mitchell, who joins us for Disability Employment Month.
Sam is an entrepreneur, public speaker, and host of the "Autism Rocks and Rolls" podcast. He is a self-described high-functioning autistic individual, uses his platform to celebrate neurodiversity and success on the spectrum.
You can learn more about Sam by visiting www.autismrocksandrolls.com