Curious Presence: Parenting Without a Map in the World of Severe Autism

04/22/25 • 31 min

In this heartfelt episode of the Inchstones Podcast, host Sarah Kernion sits down with spiritual teacher and autism parent Sara Intonato to explore the deeply personal and often complex journey of parenting neurodivergent children. With raw honesty and spiritual insight, Sara shares how cultivating presence, self-regulation, and curiosity has transformed her relationship with her autistic child and herself. Together, Sarah and Sara discuss embracing the beauty and hardship of parenting, finding grace in uncertainty, and supporting children in ways that honor their unique paths. This conversation is a must-listen for any parent navigating autism, personal growth, or the spiritual challenges of caregiving.

To learn more of Sara's work, visit her work: www.saraintonato.com and follow on Instagram: @saraintonato

To learn more of Sara's work, visit her work: www.saraintonato.com and follow on Instagram: @saraintonato

Previous Episode

From Special Ed to Social Media: Grill Guy x Kevin Spies on Parenting, Purpose & Inclusion

In this heartfelt episode of the Inchstones Podcast, host Sarah Kernion sits down with Kevin Spies—better known online as Grill Guy—to explore his powerful journey from special education teacher to full-time content creator. Kevin reflects on how fatherhood reshaped his career path and ignited his passion for building inclusive communities. The conversation dives deep into the lessons he’s learned from working with neurodivergent children, the role of physical activity in child development, and the importance of identifying each child’s unique interests.

Kevin shares how his partner Erin's unwavering support helped him navigate life’s transitions and how modeling empathy, love, and emotional presence is foundational to his parenting philosophy. This episode is a moving reminder of how small wins build lasting impact—and why creating spaces where every child feels seen and supported is a mission worth pursuing.

Instagram: @grillguy

Next Episode

Celebrating Inchstones in Autism: Sarah Kernion Talks with ABA Center Director, Melanie Roman White

In this heartfelt episode of Inchstones, host Sarah Kernion sits down with Melanie Roman White, Center Director of The Uncommon Thread and former ABA preschool director for Sarah’s children, Milly and Mack. Together, they explore Mel’s path into early childhood education and ABA therapy, the power of recognizing small developmental milestones ("inchstones"), and the vital importance of human connection for families navigating autism. Melanie offers practical advice for parents learning to advocate in the school system, emphasizes the role of joy and individuality in autism parenting, and reminds listeners that their children are more than their diagnosis. This conversation is a compassionate roadmap for families seeking hope, community, and progress—one inchstone at a time.

To find out more information on the school, The Uncommon Thread, visit: https://theuncommonthread.org/