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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion

THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion

Sara Gullihur-Bradford aka SJ Childs

🎙️ Welcome to The SJ Childs Show Podcast! 🎉

Join Sara Bradford—better known as SJ Childs—as she bridges understanding and advocacy for the neurodivergent community. This podcast shines a light on autism awareness, empowering stories, expert insights, and practical resources for parents, educators, and individuals alike.

Brought to you by The SJ Childs Global Network, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting autistic individuals and their families worldwide, this show is your weekly dose of inspiration and actionable ideas. Visit sjchilds.org to learn more about our mission, find resources, and connect with our growing community.

Catch us on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Goodpods—or tune in Fridays at 8:30 AM EDT on the Helium Radio Network’s Life Improvement Radio (Channel 1). Together, let’s foster a brighter, more inclusive world! 🌟

Go here to download training materials!
https://sjchilds.myshopify.com/

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Top 10 THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Autism Episode-TRAVELING DIFFERENT by Dawn Barclay a Consumer/Travel Trade Reporter and Author
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10/26/22 • 24 min

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Traveling her whole life, Dawn envisioned a totally different travel future for herself and her young family. But when she endured travel with her two neurodiverse children, she soon realized, it was nothing short of challenging. In her book Traveling Different, she talks about the good times and the bad and shows how accommodations can be made to bring travel as comfortable as possible when you're Traveling Different.
Check out Her Blog,Book, and Website at:
http://www.dawnbarclayink.com/

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Episode 313-Beyond the Mask: Discovering Your Patterns of Possibility with Coach Lee Hopkins
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06/03/25 • 38 min

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What if the key to meaningful connections isn't trying harder to fit in, but learning how to authentically stand out? Coach Lee Hopkins transforms this question into life-changing guidance for late-diagnosed autistic adults struggling with social connections.
Growing up watching sitcoms where problems resolved neatly in 30 minutes, Coach Lee assumed real relationships would follow the same pattern. Instead, he spent decades "destroying relationships" without understanding why. Through therapy, he discovered the foundation of connection—acknowledging that both he and others had feelings—but something was still missing. As an undiagnosed autistic person, his direct communication style clashed with neurotypical expectations, leaving him perpetually disconnected despite being surrounded by people.
Sarah Brafford shares similar experiences of feeling "like a unicorn in the horse and cow pasture," visible but fundamentally different. Both describe the exhaustion of masking—that survival strategy of nodding, smiling, and suppressing authentic responses to appear "normal." When they finally attempted to unmask, rejection often followed, creating a painful cycle that kept them isolated.
The conversation takes a powerful turn as Coach Lee reveals his transformative insight: "Rejection is redirection." Through his coaching practice, Patterns of Possibility, he guides clients to identify their values and seek connections in aligned environments. Rather than forcing yourself into spaces that require masking, he suggests finding communities where your authentic self naturally fits. The path requires vulnerability—something he teaches through practical, actionable steps rather than vague encouragements to "just be yourself."
Whether you're autistic, neurodivergent, or simply feeling disconnected, this episode offers hope through personal stories of finding genuine connection. Learn how small acts of recognition—like thanking the often-overlooked workers in our daily lives—can create ripples of positive change while building your connection muscles.
Ready to move from merely being invited to truly belonging? Visit PatternsOfPossibility.com for free resources, including a 7-minute guide on "How to be vulnerable without being overexposed" and information about joining the Trust and Thrive Tribe community.

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Sam Mitchell- Autism Rocks and Rolls Podcast- Autism Warrior

Sam Mitchell- Autism Rocks and Rolls Podcast- Autism Warrior

THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion

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04/03/21 • 35 min

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In this incredible episode, you can get first-hand knowledge from the Autism Legend himself, Sam Mitchell of the Autism Rocks and Rolls Podcast.
https://www.autismrocksandrolls.com
Please check out his page, podcast, and the silent auction happening April 1-30, 2021

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Episode 309-When Strep Attacks the Brain: Ethan Pompeo's 20-Year Battle with PANDAS
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04/23/25 • 42 min

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What happens when a simple strep throat infection triggers a devastating autoimmune response that attacks your brain? At age 13, Ethan Pompeo's life changed overnight when mysterious motor tics, compulsive behaviors, and overwhelming anxiety suddenly appeared, beginning a two-decade journey toward answers and healing.
Ethan takes us through the frustrating reality of living with PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neurological Disorders Associated with Strep) – a condition where strep antibodies cross the blood-brain barrier and create inflammation in the basal ganglia. His vivid descriptions of trying to complete simple tasks while battling uncontrollable tics paint a stark picture of the daily challenges faced by those with neurological autoimmune disorders.
The path to diagnosis wasn't straightforward. Misdiagnosed with Tourette syndrome, Ethan became what he calls a "pill guinea pig," cycling through over 40 different medications by age 17, with side effects often worse than his symptoms. This experience fostered a deep skepticism of conventional medicine and pushed him toward finding his own solutions.
What makes Ethan's story particularly compelling is his holistic approach to recovery. Moving to Colorado to work on an organic farm became a turning point, introducing him to lifestyle changes that would transform his health. His discovery that CBD's anti-inflammatory properties – not the psychoactive effects of cannabis – were addressing the root cause of his brain inflammation led to a comprehensive healing protocol combining anti-inflammatory diet, strategic supplementation, strength training, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Today, Ethan is 95% symptom-free and dedicated to helping others through PANDAS advocacy. His powerful message about accepting his condition rather than hiding it resonates beyond just those with autoimmune disorders: "The day I decided to be open about what I'm dealing with, it's like I felt a weight lifted off my shoulders."
Whether you're battling chronic illness or supporting someone who is, Ethan's journey offers practical insights, scientific understanding, and above all, hope. Follow his continued advocacy work on Instagram @ethan_pandas or visit greenvalleynutrition.com to learn more.

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Open Heart Surgery, Addiction, and Success-Anthony Williams III

Open Heart Surgery, Addiction, and Success-Anthony Williams III

THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion

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06/03/21 • 67 min

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Anthony Williams III Don't Miss It! We talk about Mental Health, life, lessons, and success!! Also, check out The Independent Mouth Podcast at https://theindependentmouth.com/
THE SJ CHILDS SHOW:
To find out more information about our show go to:
https://www.facebook.com/sjchildsshow/​
You can find our children's books at:
https://www.sjchilds.org​

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Episode 232-Exploring Queer Leadership and Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth: A Conversation with Dr. Joel Davis-Brown
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11/08/23 • 38 min

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Unearthing transformative revelations from the LGBTQ community, my conversation with Dr. Joel Davis-Brown promises to reshape your notions of leadership. Learn how embracing unpredictability and self-leadership can redefine success, as we delve into Dr. Davis-Brown’s illuminating book on queer leadership. This is more than just a leadership guide, it's an invitation to amplify marginalized voices and harness their wisdom in our daily lives and decision-making.
Navigating the sensitive topic of supporting LGBTQ youth, we underline the significance of safe spaces and diverse role models during their coming-out phase. Imagine offering a buffet of options, minus the burden of expectations. How can this empower our youth? We share candid stories and offer insights on how education and understanding can cultivate an environment for such explorations. You might find that this fresh perspective not only aids the youth but also broadens our own horizons.
But the discovery doesn't stop here. We discuss the concept of mutual mentoring, fostering environments where LGBTQ youth can comfortably express their identity, and understanding our own expectations and boundaries. We take you on a journey of parenting, learning, and healing and the role we play in building global awareness. And to leave you with a hint of anticipation, Dr. Davis-Brown provides a sneak peek into his upcoming audiobook and his continued work in supporting LGBTQ youth and promoting queer leadership. Join us on this transformative journey, and let's change the world, one conversation at a time.

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Episode 208-Cracking the Code: Insight into a Family's Autism Journey- Author of Tiny Wings Fiona Valentine
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07/23/23 • 43 min

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What happens when a family journey interweaves with the discovery of autism in their child? As the host, I had the privilege to invite Fiona from Australia, a strong and inspiring mother who shares her personal traversal through the maze of autism. Her tale is not just about recognising the signs in her younger daughter but also about how narratives from other women on the spectrum transformed their fear into a profound understanding of autism and altered their family's dynamic.
Has your child been diagnosed with a neurodiverse condition and you find yourself asking 'what’s next'? Fiona's story could be your guide. She not only delves into her daughter's autism but also expounds on the value of knowledge, the power of open diagnosis disclosure, and its impact on peers. Fiona's story doesn't end there. As we continue, she goes on to discuss her other daughter's ADHD and potential autism diagnosis, emphasizing how understanding each other's unique neurology can lead to genuine acceptance and support.
To wrap it up, Fiona's inspiration to write a book titled 'Tiny Wings' amplifies her mission to spread awareness about autism. She articulates how the Covid-19 pandemic influenced her family and their journey of acceptance, with her daughter transitioning from a library volunteer to an employee. As we conclude, Fiona extends her gratitude and hopes for future collaborations. Join us and don't miss this inspiring and enlightening episode; it might just provide the perspective you've been searching for.
https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Wings-Our-Journey-Autism/dp/0645794406
https://www.fionavalentine.com/tinywings.html
https://hopin.com/events/1-in-36-mix-virtual-autism-summit/registration

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Ever catch yourself in the heat of an argument with your child, only to realize you've slipped into an undesirable 'anger game'? Our guest, mental health coach and emotional fitness trainer Benji Sharer, knows this dance all too well and he's here to help us change the music. Join our enlightening conversation where we explore how to ensure our children feel safe, understood, and that their emotional needs are met.
Parenting isn't a one-size-fits-all venture - and neither is emotional fitness. Unpack the influence your own upbringing can have on your parenting style and how to approach challenging scenarios with emotions other than anger or fear. We'll learn from Benji’s personal journey of mastering his triggers and how you can apply his practical advice to avoid falling into the age-old 'anger game' with your little ones.
Lastly, we'll journey into the realm of self-love and the role it plays in establishing trust and safety in the parent-child relationship. Our conditioning can sometimes lead us to suppress our emotions, but we'll discover how this can harm our relationships with our children. I'll be sharing handy tips to help you navigate unresolved trauma, and how to foster a bond with your child that is built on mutual trust and understanding. Remember, emotional fitness is not just about managing our triggers, but also about nurturing our emotional state with self-love and self-care. Tune in and let's redefine what it means to be an emotionally fit parent!

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THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion - Episode 211- Embracing Life's Unexpected Lessons: A Story of Transformation with Ryann Watkin
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08/03/23 • 32 min

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Have you ever had a moment that made you stop in your tracks and reassess everything? That's what happened to our guest, Ryann Watkin, six months postpartum with a sudden panic attack. This raw and enlightening episode explores Ryann's journey of self-discovery, healing, and transformation. She offers a candid glimpse into her struggles with addiction, coping mechanisms, and the importance of journaling, verbal processing, and community in seeking out the truths that led her toward healing.
Ryann's riveting story continues as she shares how her passion for education influenced her approach to parenting. Shifting from an authoritarian stance, she embraced conscious discipline, gentle parenting, and the choice method. Her reflections emphasize the beauty of diversity and the importance of recognizing and celebrating our unique attributes. Be ready to reevaluate as Ryann's insights might just spark your own self-reflection about your life and the way you parent.
Finally, we delve into a shared experience of finding joy in unexpected moments and the power of healing in aligning different aspects of our lives. There's something undeniably magnetic about Ryann's journey and her passion for talking about healing that leaves you inspired and yearning for more. We wrap up by connecting with Ryann's vibrant online community on Instagram, which is one space you should consider being a part of. This conversation is a heart-touching, thought-provoking, and deeply moving exploration of parenting, diversity, healing, and finding joy in the unexpected. Tune in and prepare to be inspired!

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Have you ever wondered if there's more to chiropractic care than just relieving back pain? In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Anthony Cutting, a chiropractor with a passion for alternative medicine, and the impact it can have on our lives. Inspired by his father's experience with a birth defect in his lumbar spine, Dr. Cutting shared his journey into chiropractic care and how it can improve the lives of individuals with various health conditions.
From active individuals and families to infants and those with special needs, the range of clients who can benefit from chiropractic care is vast. We delved into prenatal chiropractic care, discussing techniques like the Webster technique, which balances the hips and provides an optimal space for the baby to develop. Dr. Cutting emphasizes the importance of this care for moms-to-be, helping them maintain their health throughout pregnancy.
Our conversation also explored chiropractic care for neurodiverse children, highlighting the benefits of an integrative approach that covers nutrition, supplements, gut health, and the zone technique to balance the nervous system and brain centers. We also discuss the potential of upper cervical care for autism to improve memory and neurological function. Join us for this eye-opening episode and learn how chiropractic care can lead to positive changes in the lives of those with special needs and beyond.

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FAQ

How many episodes does THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion have?

THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion currently has 336 episodes available.

What topics does THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion cover?

The podcast is about Mom, Society & Culture, Parenting, Teen, Dad, Behavior, Kids & Family, Kid, Family, Youth, Fun, Podcasts, Adhd, Education, Neurodiversity, Resources and Autism.

What is the most popular episode on THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion?

The episode title 'Autism Business Episode-Mark Wilson Founder of Autistic Gang Apparel' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion?

The average episode length on THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion is 35 minutes.

How often are episodes of THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion released?

Episodes of THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion are typically released every 4 days, 3 hours.

When was the first episode of THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion?

The first episode of THE SJ CHILDS SHOW-Building a Community of Inclusion was released on Mar 19, 2021.

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