Tony Mantor
Appearances
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
And of course, males are diagnosed more than females are.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
That will add another layer of challenges to the autistic world as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
I've talked with a lot of females that have been late diagnosed, 30s, 40s, some even in their 50s. It takes a huge leap of faith to get that diagnosis because they've lived their life for so long as they have been. What would you tell someone that's considering diagnosis, they've lived their life, they're comfortable with their life,
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
yet they know there's something not quite right, what would you tell them? Because it's a big challenge to find these things and then realize you might have to change a few things to create that better life that you want.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Yeah, yeah. It's tough living with it, not knowing. Yet it's tough to make that decision to get a diagnosis. Because when you get that diagnosis, it could be freeing, but it also could add a lot of stress because of the unknown.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Yeah, yeah. It's finding that balance so that you can thrive in the world. But it's also finding that comfort zone that allows you to accept it and thrive.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Absolutely. The most important thing is that you find your comfort zone. As the old saying goes, you find a way to be comfortable in your own skin. Yeah. The most important part is that you take everything that you learn, apply it, find a way to accept it, and then hopefully, with all the changes, you move forward with a better life for yourself.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Absolutely. From the time that you started up until now, what are some of the changes that you've seen in yourself?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
That's great to hear that you feel more confident about what you're doing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Absolutely. And that's a great thing. Another thing you have to add to that is that everything that you're doing is actually helping someone and you're changing lives. That's a huge positive all the way around. I hope so. Yeah.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
You bring up the workplace. That's another area that needs to be addressed for sure. Autistic people are either underemployed or unemployed. I think that's great that you're trying to help that out too, because they certainly can contribute to the workforce.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Absolutely. How do people find you if they need your help?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Did you get a formal diagnosis of autism before?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
This has been a great conversation. I've really enjoyed it. So thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Absolutely. It's been my pleasure. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
With everything that happened to you, finding that you're autistic, just the way that you did, the way that things seem to make sense with your husband and the people around you, how did that affect you with your family and your interaction on a day-to-day basis? Did that change things for you? What happened after that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
That's a great way of looking at things. You've been able to reflect on your past, diagnose yourself a little bit in things that happened so that you could kind of make sense of them. With this all going on in your life and you come into grips with everything that you need to, this has really helped your overall outlook on moving forward. I think that's a great thing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Sure. I've had the opportunity to speak with many people that have been late diagnosed. The greater percentage of those being late diagnosed were females.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
The reason they've told me is they tend to mask more to fit in. So once you came to the conclusion that you are autistic, did you get a chance to look at yourself as an outsider looking at you, where you could reflect on things that you did, look at how you handled those things? And once you looked at yourself
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
did a deeper dive on some of the issues that you was having, did you find that you was masking as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mayator. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world hopefully you gain more awareness acceptance and a better understanding for autism around the world
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Yeah, that makes sense. By doing this self-diagnosis while you're working with a therapist to get your diagnosis, have you found that this might have put you in a better place, more of your comfort zone, because you can accept what happened, accept what's going on now, so that you can use that to better move forward with your future?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me The World. Today, we are joined by Gabriela Russo, an expert with 25 years of experience in supporting organizations that cater to children, young people, and families in the UK and internationally. Her work has taken her to primary and secondary schools, colleges, and universities, where she helps ensure their safeguarding measures are up to date.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Sure, sure. What are some of the things that you still struggle with? You may be still working on it, trying to fix it so that you can still accept who you are. Yet you may be struggling on some things just because the way the world is in its perception of autistic people.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Yeah, I mean, that makes total sense. So with all this happening, everything that you went through, this has really turned you to an advocate and really helped your overall business prospects in what you're doing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Yeah, yeah, right.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Gabriella is passionate about creating a workplace culture that is inclusive, empathetic and compassionate. We're excited to share her inspiring story. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
What are some of the challenges that you face? One of the things that I find in talking with people for the last year and a half to two years is autistic people, those with mental health, ADHD, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc. The biggest issue I've found is trying to get the neurotypical world to understand what they are going through.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
As much as it's needed for people to understand, there has to be those that are willing to teach them so they can understand, and hopefully that will make it better for everyone. What are some of the things that you've run into trying to do this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
Oh, it's my pleasure. How did you get involved with the autistic community?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriella Russo: Embracing Self-Discovery and Advocacy in Autism – Overcoming Challenges and Building a Supportive Community
I can understand that for sure. I think basically what you just said is what's been said so many times. You've met one autistic person. You've met one autistic person.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
I notice you have evaluations. Yes. What does that encompass? Are you evaluating what they can do, what they can learn to do? What's that process look like?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Yeah, that sounds really good. I noticed you have janitorial, you have several other things, including forklift training. What's that training look like?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
So basically, that's just another form of getting out there and shadow working. How wide a net does the shadow working encompass?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
So do you work with autistic people as well as those that might have mental health issues?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Yeah, that's great. Pretty inclusive. So how is your percentage of those that come in, learn, and then those that graduate? Do you have a high success rate of graduation rate? as well as a high success rate of getting people valid work.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
That's great. Everyone wants to work. What's the best way for people to find you and contact you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
That's great. What would you like to tell our listeners that you think is very important for them to know about what you're doing and the accomplishments that you've had over the years?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Yeah, that's great. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on. Thank you for having me. Oh, it's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
That's nice. Now, how long have you been there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
What are some of the changes that you've seen from when you started to what it is today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Joining us today is Angela Calzone, President and CEO of Inroads to Opportunities, an organization dedicated in supporting individuals with disabilities, both visible and invisible.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
So how have you grown? How many people work within your organization?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
What's the criteria to get into your service? What's the process they have to go through? And how do you handle it so that you know that it's a good fit for both them and your company?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
So is your situation like a vocational school where someone will come in and learn their craft? How long do they have to learn it? What's that process look like?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
So do you have people or organizations that you work with So when the client goes through your classes, when they're finished, they have maybe a job to go to?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
They provide training and assistance to facilitate a seamless transition into the workforce. Angela brings a wealth of knowledge and we are delighted to have her with us today. Thanks for coming on. I'm delighted to do this. If you would, tell us a little bit about what you do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
With any company that does things like you do, there's always bumps in the road, challenges to overcome. What were some of the challenges that you faced initially getting this started? And further, what are some of the challenges that you face day to day now that you've been up and running for a while?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
You mentioned you have a contract for packaging.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Angela Calzone's Vision:Integrating disabilities into the workforce
Your facility seems to cover a multitude of things, which is really good. You've got the packaging. I noticed that you had something about cooking. What does that entail and how does that work for them?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah. Do you feel better about yourself and your daughter with the future that you both can have?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
I agree 100%. What about textures? Does she have any problem with textures of food or clothes?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yes, it is very well known that females are very good at masking. Now, what about focus? Many autistic people are very focused when they have something that they focus on. They just don't give up anything until they get through that. Is she very focused as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah. So she has a sister. Is she neurotypical?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Okay. Is she younger?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Okay. How do they get along?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Okay.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Oh.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, that's rough. Hopefully when they get into their teens, that can change.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, I think you've brought out a lot of very, very good points. I think a lot of people are going to be able to relate to your story. That's why I do this podcast. It's about people like yourself telling stories and hopefully others hearing it and then they can get something out of it that will definitely help their situation.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
So it's very tough what you're going through, but I definitely do appreciate you telling it because it's definitely needed for everybody.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yes, absolutely. That's the best words that you can say. How has your family handled this? Have they embraced your daughter with her autism? Has that been a good thing for you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, yeah, absolutely. That's all we can hope for is for people to at least try to understand. Most people, it's the big unknown.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
I'm the perfect example. Before I started this podcast, I knew absolutely nothing about autism other than I'd heard the word. I didn't know anyone that was autistic. And so it was a complete unknown entity to me. Now, a couple of years later, I've found that I do know people that are autistic. They've come out and told me because they feel like they can.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
The biggest thing that I think everyone needs to do is tell their stories, get it out there, create more understanding because we can accept it, we can be aware of it, but until we understand it, it will stay a complete unknown, unfortunately.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, it's tough. I'm just hoping that we can just continue to do what we're doing, get more information out there, and then just make things better for everyone involved.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, that's the key for sure. I really appreciate you coming on. It's been a fantastic story and a great conversation.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
It's been my pleasure. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, that makes total sense. When did you start your business?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
That makes total sense. Plus, it gives you time for your kids.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
What grade was she in school at that time?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Since she's been diagnosed, have you been able to get therapists and help for her so that she can integrate within the school system and with her friends more? Are better things happening for her now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Joining us today is Jess Tuff, a devoted single mother, passionate educator, and dedicated advocate for mental health awareness, women's empowerment, and special education.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
I totally agree. People have to have some self-reflection at times and realize that others need help and sympathy and empathy as well. Is this what prompted you to make a change to get into the schooling and become more of an advocate for autistic people?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, I think information is coming from all angles. That's truly great. Did you finally get a diagnosis or did they still push it to the side?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast. Hosted by Tony Mayator. Broadcasting from Music City, USA. Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh. Some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yes, I agree. Unfortunately, it seems to be hit and miss depending upon where you live. Each areas have different amounts of money to spend, different things in place. So your living area is a big, big deciding point for that. Once you did get the diagnosis, and found she is autistic, did that change anything for you? Did you approach anything differently?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
How did the interaction go between you and the doctor? How did the interaction go between you, her, and all the other people around you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
She shares with us her journey with her autistic daughter, the emotions that accompanied her along the way. Her story is truly inspiring, and I'm delighted to have her as our guest. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, absolutely. How old is she now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Nine. Okay. Some people, unfortunately, that do not understand autism, they don't know the difference between a meltdown or a child just having a tantrum. They don't realize when an autistic child is having a meltdown, it can last 10, 15, 20 minutes. Once that's over, then everything's okay.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
But it's that 10 or 15 or 20 minutes of going through it that people have to see, and they just unfortunately do not understand it. So I'm guessing before you got the diagnosis, things like that was happening with your daughter. You were probably questioning yourself as a parent.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
So what were some of the things that went through your mind before the diagnosis? And then what went through your mind after the diagnosis?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
It's my pleasure. I understand you're involved in the autistic community. What do you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
You were so correct. I tell everyone that I work with, perception is reality. It may not be true, but is that person's perception of you, is that person's reality of you? How did you address some of those things? I mean... You know your child. You know what she's going through most of the time. How do you address those people knowing what you know without, as they say, blowing your gasket?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Absolutely. No one wants to do that. It's really a tough situation you were in. So what did you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jess Tuff: Empowering Autism Acceptance Through Advocacy and Empathy – A Mother's Journey in Special Education and Mental Health
Yeah, that's so tough.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Then when you have someone that's autistic or has mental health, you don't know how they're going to react because everyone reacts completely different. It's a tough situation for them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Now that you've jumped into that arena, is this something that you're going to be putting on a schedule to do once a month or as often as you can to bridge that gap?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that's so good. Now you're doing ABA, you're bridging into the community. What other things do you do that people wouldn't be expecting of you to be doing because you are a university? Because people don't look at universities as they would charities of helping the autistic community and those with special needs.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, I mean, that's a great answer. People, especially today, need empathy. They need help. They need support. They need all those things. I think that's a great answer. People have to understand they get bullied. They're trying to fit in. They're just trying to do what everybody else wants to do, and that's just live their life. Puts a lot of stress on them because of those type of situations.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Now, here's another question. Unfortunately, when they get bullied and they get this kind of pressure, Sometimes they go into that dark side and a lot of people don't realize this, but suicide is the second most leading cause of death among autistic people around the world. Do you address that at all in some of your studies to help them for their future?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Well, talking about it is a start. It has to start someplace because people have to understand and know, especially the autistic children, because females tend to mask more than when they don't fit in, they start going into a dark place. That's when tragedy can happen. So it's a good thing that you're at least talking about it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Absolutely. It's a tough subject, but it has to be done. You just brought up your staff. How many people are on your staff?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
How many hours do you spend with each child that you see?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I'm curious. Have you seen where two hours just isn't enough sometimes?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that's like the private ABA therapists that go out. Insurance will allow them, like you said, 26 to 40 hours to go into their home and help them out. So yeah, it definitely is a job. Have you had any that you've worked with that no matter what you tried, unfortunately, it just didn't work?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
How do you approach that? I mean, you're trying to do everything you can do to help this child. For whatever reason, he or she is just not absorbing it or understanding what you're trying to put across. How do you handle it so that you can keep persisting and maybe break that wall down a little bit so eventually it can work?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that makes sense. Now, you just brought something up that I think we need to touch upon, and that's the parents. Unfortunately, when an autistic child is involved, the parents stress out. They start pointing fingers, blaming each other, not getting along. The divorce rate is very high. Do you have instances where you have an autistic child they're bringing in for you to work with them?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Do you find yourself working more to comfort the parents than you actually do for the child at times?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Now we've covered a lot. Is there anything that you want to talk about your university that we haven't brought up yet that you think might be important for everybody to hear?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I think that's great. Needless to say, it's a work in progress for everyone that's involved in this. So that's a great statement.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, they do. I think it's like 70 to 90% of autistic people are either unemployed or underemployed. So it's tough.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Well, that's great. Once you got into this and started learning yourself, what path did you take? You're now working for a college that is all about teaching and learning about all the autistic traits. How did you interact and how did you expand that so that you could get to where you are today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I appreciate it. I have learned everything that I know, which isn't enough from everyone that's been on this podcast. So it's been just great having everybody on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I find that most people have very similar stories. The difference is where they live, how the government handles it. When I hear people talking about their children, we still talk about being bullied. We still talk about ABA therapy. We talk about a lot of different things. So there's a lot of things in this world that are very similar.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
But the biggest difference, I think, is where they live and how they interact with their government and their insurances that they deal with. It's tough all around the world. It's a global thing. And a lot of people don't realize that.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Well, this has been a very interesting conversation. I've enjoyed it. I really appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Thanks. I appreciate it. It's been my pleasure having you on. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yes, unfortunately, so true.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that's great strides. One of the big things I continually hear is how long it takes to get diagnosed and get into the pipeline for any type of help that they can get. You are so right in the fact that the paperwork takes what seems like a lifetime for them. But meanwhile, the parents have to deal with this because it's a daily thing for them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
What do you see as the best pathway for them to expedite things and get some much needed help?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
That makes total sense. Your clinic can do a variety of different things. Do you focus on any one thing or do you spread it out to try and help so many different people on different levels? What's your plan there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Lisa Kuntz, Director of the Pierce Autism Center at Toro University in Henderson, Nevada.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Now, different states have age-out limits of 18 or 21. If it's 18 or 21, what's the process there for you? Because as everyone, well, if they don't know, autism is not something that's cured at any certain age. It's a lifelong thing. For the listeners that don't know, in certain states, at 18 or 21, they'll age out and can't get help.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
What do you do for those that are aging out, yet they still need help?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I've heard that analogy so many times.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yes, it certainly has been tough for a lot of people, especially the older ones. I spoke with a lady. She was just about to turn 60. She had been diagnosed in her 40s, late 40s. Then she said that by the time she figured things out, she was always the weird one during high school.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
But when she figured it out, her 50s, she thrived and everything just turned around and her life was just so much better. I think because now we've got more information and we're starting to see this, it's hopefully going to help those kids that are in the high school and all that now have a better life because they can be diagnosed and they can get the help that they need.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
It's a total different life now in a span of less than 30 years.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Right, right. I remember speaking with a lady. She was a speech therapist for autistic children. She said that when she went to college for autism and what she was doing, she had one class, one semester that was on autism. And that was it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Now you fast forward 30, 40 years later, you've got classes upon classes upon classes about autism and the needs that they have that they didn't have and didn't talk about 30 or 40 years ago in college.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Absolutely correct. They're all over the country, all over the world. We just need to learn how to understand what happens when they have different problems. For example, most people don't recognize the difference between a tantrum and a meltdown. How do you teach that? Because that is something that's very hard for anybody to tell. So how do you address that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
She will recount her personal journey from her early days at the university with limited knowledge of autism to her growth and development of significant relationships. We are delighted to have her on the show. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Right, I can't disagree there because people are very quick to judge now. They don't realize that it's not bad parenting, that the parents are actually doing what's right for the child.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Absolutely. I think that's just great. Parents need a parent's day out for sure. What is the situation that you had that when you looked at it, you thought it was going to be a complete disaster? Then all of a sudden, after a little bit of time, things just worked out and it was a complete success.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
That's amazing. That's not the first time I've heard something along that line. That just goes to show the old saying that when you've seen one autistic person, you've seen one autistic person. When you see someone that's struggling, you don't think they stand a chance of doing something, and then they do. It's just a huge achievement and great goal for them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Oh, it's my pleasure. How did your journey start into the autistic world working at the college?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that's just so good that they can feel independent like that. Now, did you do anything with the first responders? There is such a need to create that bridge between the autistic world and the first responders.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, that's great. We just need more of it. I think one of the biggest things we have to do is education, understanding. Those two things are so important when it comes to our first responders. because they only have seconds to think sometimes of what to do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
They have to assess it, and if it seems confrontational, if they seem aggressive, if they seem like they're going to hurt themselves, if the police don't know or the first responders don't know how to handle that, it can turn into a tragedy. We just need to find ways to get more information, more education, more understanding,
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
And then hopefully, after a period of time, things will just get better for everyone.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
I can understand that. I had a parent that I was talking with. He had a very fun-loving autistic child. Just loved everybody. He was so happy. The police saw him walking down the street. They thought he was high. So they handcuffed him and took him to the precinct. They then called his dad, who came down, explained the situation out to them. Luckily, it turned out good. They released him.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Everything was okay. For everyone that's like that, there's others that don't turn out that good. That's why we need the education and the understanding.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lisa Kuntz: Transforming Autism Support – From University Role to Global Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Yeah, and it's not the policeman's fault. They deal with, unfortunately, the seediest side of life. Not all the time. So they have to look at things that some things could turn dangerous in a blink of an eye. So they have to be on their guard at all times.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, that's too bad. I really hate to hear that. What about friends? Have you had friends that have stuck by you throughout your whole life or has that affected that as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, that can be so true. I was talking with a person the other day. You brought it up and it's perfectly stated. Unfortunately, here in the U.S., we are so caught up in everything that we're doing. Unless something affects our family or us personally, it's not a crisis. And then when it does, it is a crisis.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Okay. All right. What's your performance schedule look like overall?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Some of the things that are needed, in my opinion, is for people to understand more about the autistic community, what their needs are, so that everybody can work together to make the world better. So how do you think, as a society, we can get that understanding to get the neurotypical world to understand the neurodiverse world so that we can make it a more inclusive world for everybody involved?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Absolutely. I think you're definitely spot on. Now, what's on the horizon? You have a CD coming out. What do you see in the next three to five years for you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Okay. Yeah, that's nice.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I get that. Social media can be so complex and hard to deal with.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, you have to create your own network and hopefully get them to help you. It's tough.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I understand that completely. I've done that many times. With you performing and traveling, you're autistic. How does that affect you when you're traveling in varied places around the world?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
That's a great area to help because that is so needed for the autistic community for sure.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
That's just so good. Education, understanding, and helping others is really a good way to go.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah. And I definitely understand what you're saying about Europe. I've spoken with many people from around the world on my podcast. And it's amazing how different countries look at autism. And in some cases, they don't look at it. It's tough for a lot of people, unfortunately. Yeah. I had a lady that just reached out to me from Bulgaria.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Her niece and her autistic son moved from Bulgaria to different parts of Europe and then ultimately wound up in Belgium. She sent a message to me on Instagram telling me of her journey from Bulgaria to Belgium. The travels that she had and the experiences she had was told to me of how... the European countries look at autism and some were night and day difference.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, I'm sure it was. But the main thing is that you did get through it. Man, this has been really great. I really appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Oh, it's my pleasure. It's been a great conversation. I really appreciate it. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to TonyMantor.com.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I can just imagine the airport has overwhelmed me several times. So when you're performing, how does that affect you? You have the audience there, a lot of outside interference and people getting ready for all that, for the show and everything. How do you handle that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I get that. What are some of the small things that can build up that could affect you before the show?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Sure, I understand that. A lot of hustle and bustle going on before a show. Now, do you have a band or do you perform solo?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me The World. Today I have the pleasure of hosting Lady Miranda, a multi-award winning singer-songwriter who excels in multiple genres. She is dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive music community.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Okay, when you're on stage and you're doing a live thing, you've got three or four musicians with you, what goes through your mind? You're listening to the sound, you're listening to the band, you're trying to make sure that everything's just right because you're trying to get your music out there for people to hear.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
What goes through your mind during that process and how do you contain it so you can put out the music that you know you can do and you can be proud of?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, that's a very, very good plan. And the main thing is it works for you. What about after the show? You've got the fans coming up to you. They want pictures. They want autographs. That can be very hectic as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real life people who will inspire, and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I totally get that. I've been to a lot of after parties and I'm with you. As soon as I can get out, I do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yes, I totally get that completely. I'm glad you brought that up. What do your meltdowns look like now? You've gone through them, you've aged with them. Do you know they're coming? Can you feel them coming on?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I've talked with a lot of people that tell me that most meltdowns last 15, 20, 30 minutes. How does yours work? And how long does it take before you're back to feeling better about yourself again?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Okay, that sure makes sense. How old was you when you was diagnosed autistic?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Additionally, she shares her insights on autism and her personal journey as an autistic singer. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Okay, that makes sense. And you're right about the females. They do mask a lot more than the males. What led you to get a diagnosis?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Sure. Now, when you got your diagnosis back, confirmed you were autistic, what went through your mind?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Tell me a little bit about yourself and what you're doing now.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
That makes sense. I spoke with a lady. She didn't get diagnosed until she was in her late 40s. Then when she did, same as you, she looked back and everything made total sense to her.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
She's a musician such as yourself. She does a one-woman show. She told me that once she had figured it out, once she got it all together, that the next 10 years were the best, most productive years she'd had. As it turned out, it was the best thing that she ever did by getting diagnosed because it changed her life.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
I spoke with another guy over in England. He's six foot one, 225 pounds, looks fit. He says that when he tells people that he's autistic, they don't believe him. He made a great analogy. He said, If I told them that I had cancer, they wouldn't question it. But yet I tell them something very personal like this about his autism, and they still don't believe it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Absolutely.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Has it affected your relationships at all through your life?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, good point. Now, you just brought up your family. When you did get diagnosed, what was their reaction to it? Did they support you? Did they help you? What was the reaction when you gave them the diagnosis?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Lady Miranda: Harmonizing Inclusivity and Autism in Music – Navigating Performance, Relationships, and Societal Norms with Resilience and Insight
Yeah, that's great. It's always nice to have new music coming out. When you're performing and recording, do you prefer any particular style?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Nice. Now, we've covered a lot of things that are extremely good. Yeah. Autistic people are known, unfortunately, for some of their meltdowns.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
When they're put in a situation like this, does it lead to anxiety or sensory overload to where they might be worried about their performance or any possible mistakes they might make? How do you get past that so that they understand that it doesn't really matter? They're doing it for the fun of it and just get out there, enjoy what you're doing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Okay. Now, in any play, you've got different ages, you've got males, you've got females, all interacting with each other on the stage. Autistic people are fairly well known for a lot of things will go past them. For example, flirting, that type of thing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
So when you have a situation where they have to take and make a certain body movement or interact in a certain way, how do you get that across to them so that it gets across to the audience so they understand exactly what's going on within the play?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Yeah. Now, we've covered a lot of great things. I think one of the most important things here is you're putting together a group of autistic people that are creating this body of work. As everyone knows, you've met one autistic person, you've met one autistic person. What can you tell us about how they've interacted with each other, what they've learned from each other?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
What led you to start the theater?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
I think the most important thing is what have you learned from it? What have you gained from it yourself?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Oh, that's great. I love it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Yeah, so in closing, have I missed anything that you would like to tell us that you think is important for the listeners to hear about your theater?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
How do people find you and how do they contact you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Yeah. Yeah, that's great. This has been a very good conversation, great information. I really appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
That's great. So when did it start?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Nice. When you started it, you had this vision of what it could be.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Has it evolved to be bigger than you thought it would be? And if it has, how did that happen?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
When you start something out, you always have what I like to call little bumps in the road, so to speak. Sure. Sure. some things just do not go as first planned. What were some of the first struggles that hit you? Then once you got past those first struggles, what happened then to help it evolve to what it is today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Hopefully, you'll gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Joining us today is Dr. Blythe Corbett. She is a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Autistic people tend to be very focused. You brought up the fact that sometimes the improv could be of an issue. Have you had any challenges with them doing improv because sometimes that can take them outside of their comfort zone? So have you had any issues with the improv side of it because of that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real-life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Absolutely. What style of theater are you doing? I mean, there's just so many variables that can be done.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
She's here to discuss Sense Theater, a peer-mediated theater-based intervention that has contributed to significant improvements in social functioning in individuals with autism. It's a pleasure to have her here, so thanks for joining us.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
What age groups are involved in this theater that you're doing now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Oh, that's great. How often do they get together for rehearsals?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Oh, that's great. How many plays have you done to date?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
How long have you been doing it at Vanderbilt?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
What's the reception been? I mean, you started it and had to wait and see, let's see what happens. Then it started working, started growing. What's the reception been, not only from the autistic community, but those outside of the autistic community that would come to see what you're doing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Oh, it's my pleasure. So tell us a little bit about yourself and what you're doing for the autistic community.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Okay. Now, how do you find the talent to do this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Blythe Corbett: Pioneering Autism Communication through Theater and Fostering Inclusive Expression
Is this being planned to go nationwide or maybe even worldwide if you could?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, I get that. Completely understand. Now, what about your girlfriend? Did she know before you got together that you might have been autistic? Or was it after you got together that the autism came about? Can you expand on that a little bit?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, that's great. Great attitude to have. Yeah. Now, did you ever get truly diagnosed, or did you just believe that you were and just went self-diagnosed?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
I totally understand that completely. How long have you considered yourself autistic?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah. So basically you're creating your own comfort zone.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, so what's your goals now? Where do you see yourself in three, say, five years from now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, absolutely. Change is not always bad. Now, what would you like to tell our listeners that you think is important for them to hear about what you're doing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, yeah. When you look back, you can always say, oh, I should have done this or I should have done that. Is there anything that you look back on now that you would change? You would say, I should have done this instead of this, or I should have done that. Or are you happy with the journey that you've taken to get where you are now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, that's a great message. This has been a great conversation, great information. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on. Yeah, thanks Tony. Appreciate it. Thanks for having me. It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
So how did you approach that? Because social... is sometimes very tough for an autistic person.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, that's pretty understanding there. What type of modeling did you do? Did it require a lot of changes in clothes? All modeling does.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me The World. Joining us today is Stephen Waddell. He's a model and a blogger specializing in writing about his health and wellness.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Did you have any issues with texture of clothes? I know some autistic people will have issues with texture of clothes.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
With all of this happening, how did you come out of your shell? You're introverted. You was doing a lot of masking. Did you have to force yourself to get that unmasking, so to speak? How did you handle that? How did you approach it?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
What did you do to change so that you could move forward in a different direction?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast. Hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA. Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh. Some will make you cry. Real life people. who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, that does seem tall for a model.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Did that help you move forward with that industry?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
He joins us today to discuss his experiences with autism and how it has impacted his life's journey, as well as his strategies for managing it and his career choices. He has a unique approach and will undoubtedly share valuable insights with us. Thanks for coming on. Yeah, no, for sure, man. So if you would, give us a little information about yourself.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
What about sensory overload? Did you have any instances where that happened to you during all the things that you was doing in your daily life?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Yeah, that's good. Whatever it takes, right? What about meltdowns? Do you have any issues there? Some autistic people have meltdowns, some don't. How are you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Sure. Now, what about food? I know a lot of people have issues with certain food textures. They don't like it. They can't eat it. They have to find something that's different that they can like. How does that affect you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
That's really good. Now, you said that you're trying to move on from the modeling and get more into the world of charity and nonprofits.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Steven Waddell: Rocks, Rails, and Revelations: A Model's Autism Story
Sure, that makes total sense. Now, what about friends? Since you've been trying to expand a little bit, have you come out of your shell or do you still have a small circle of friends and keep it very close to what you feel comfortable with?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that's so true. I think that's awesome that you help out and do that. As you know, the autistic community is either unemployed or underemployed. It's not good.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, I think that's really good. How many people do you have working for you now? I mean, you've got eight different locations in several different states. Do you have a lot of people working at your organization?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Wow, that's great. Now you're in California, Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Washington, Hawaii, Tennessee, and Florida.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Now you're thinking of expanding from there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, I think that's a great thing to think about doing. It will help a lot of people. Plus, it didn't take you long to get to the eight states. So I don't think that's anything that's out of the possibilities of happening. I think that's great.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Which one come first? How did you develop it and evolve from there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Well, that's definitely a good thing to know. What do you do in a case where someone might call you? You're not in that state yet. So do you refer them to someone else? What do you do in a case like that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's a great thing to know. You said it takes sometimes two to five years. These people can't wait two to five years. Is there a quick thing to where you can help them or do they still need to find others? What do you do in cases like that where they just don't have the time?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that's where we need to get the federal government more involved.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Like a national health service that would cover a situation just like you're talking about.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that's very, very important for sure. One of the biggest things that I find out because of the people I speak with is they are just so overwhelmed when they first find out and they just don't know what to do at all. They don't know what's available out there. They don't know what service, what agency. They are just so overwhelmed with their child and trying to help them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
The states don't need to make it easier They need to make the process quicker so people like yourself can get out there and help those that really need it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's such great information. How do people get in touch with you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's great. I think everyone will appreciate that. So what is your website?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's great. Then from there, they can go into your website, figure out which state that you're in and they're in, and contact you from there.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Wow, that's great. What kind of a process was it to get that started and then expand it to all the other states that you're in currently?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
I think that's great. A lot of information, a lot of things that people can contact you about. Anything else that you'd like to say?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Oh, that's really awesome. Really, really good. I appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Oh, the pleasure has been all mine. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
One of the things that I hear from several different people is autistic children, the autistic community, pretty much all across the country, have the same needs. Unfortunately, it's the way the different states operate that causes some issues. So how do you handle that with the way that you do business?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
When you deal with people that have issues with the state and they're autistic and their family's struggling, do you find that the state will give you what you need or do you still have to fight for the client to get them everything that they need to move forward?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mentor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Gabriella Salcido, who established the Roman Empire Agency in 2010 to provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Absolutely. I've heard that many times. What ages do you find yourself working with most of the time?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that's good to know. I found that one in seven people around the world either know someone or has someone that's autistic in their family.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yes, absolutely. Change is definitely needed. Now, in some states, they age out at 18. In other states, they age out at 21. What do you do to help those that have aged out? As we all know, autism does not stop at 18 or 21. It continues, so they still need help.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's great. What's first then?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That makes total sense. What's next?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Now, I'm sure the next step is when they turn 18 or above. What's next then?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, and that's a very scary thing for the parents. Now, do you help in that at all with the transitions like that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Currently operating in eight states, she is striving to expand her services nationwide. Welcome to the show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yes, that's very important for both of them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that's very important things for people to know. Do you come to them or do you go to them? How does that work out for your company?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Okay, that makes sense. Now, when you take on a new client, you decide what they need. Do you go to their homes to help them or do they come to your office to decide what is needed to move forward with your company?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
All right, so you actually go to their homes, look at what they're doing, diagnose what's going on, and then formulate a plan so that everything can get better for them with your services.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Oh, it's my pleasure. How long have you been working with autism, mental health, and the special needs community?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yeah, that sounds like a tremendously good plan. Now, once you have that laid out, you've done your diagnosis of what the family needs, then you lay out what they need to do to accomplish it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Have you had situations where you look at everything, you have your reservations if this will work or not, then you get working with them, they're following through, you still have your doubts, but then all of a sudden, it just works out. Have you had that happen?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
That's great to know. What are some of the steps that you do to help that transition? I've heard from several people, and there seems to be a big gap. There are several charities trying to build that bridge between autism and the first responders. So do you do that collectively or individually?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Yes, that's so right. The education part of it is just so tremendously important. Have you ever had anyone that you've worked with that did so well that after you got them through it, they went in, they studied, they went to school, then all of a sudden they became therapists and came to work for you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Gabriela Salcido:Creating Lifelong Pathways for Autism Services Across America
Oh, that's perfect. When you started your company, is that the Roman Empire Agency? Yes.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, when I spoke with Temple Grandin, she said, give me a pilot's checklist. I'll get it done.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, yeah, that's true.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
I've said that in the neurotypical world, let alone the neurodiverse. To me, it just makes no sense.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
I agree.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, exactly.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
What is very important to you that you need to let our listeners know about the journey in what you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, it's sad we have to compare like that. Like you said, everyone's different.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, I agree 100%.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
100%.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Exactly.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
It'd be boring too.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Absolutely. This has been a really good conversation. I appreciate you coming on my show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
That's great. That's great. Well, this has been good. Very, very informative.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah, you were so correct there. Again, I really appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
What were some of the things that you noticed he wasn't doing that you thought he should have been doing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
That must have been really frustrating to deal with when you know what you know as a mother. So how did you handle it?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Meet the World. Joining us today is Teresa Haskins, an educator, researcher, and notably, a mother with an autistic child. Her journey began seeking answers. which led to providing those answers by immersing herself in learning.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
With all this happening, what was your next plan of action?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
With all the emotions going on, the ups and downs, researching seemed to be a good thing. Where did that path of research lead you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
That's a great question. What are you implementing to try and hopefully change some of this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
This led to her teaching others how to help themselves find success and achieve their full potential in a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable world. It's a pleasure to have her on to share her expertise with us. Thanks for joining us.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
Yeah. When you meet someone for the first time, you're trying to explain to them what you just explained to me. How do you get that across? There's this big mystery in some people's minds on what autism is. For example, when I first started my podcast, I knew nothing about autism. Zero. Now, a year and a half later, I've gathered enough information where I can understand what people are saying.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
I can follow along. A lot of people out there, when you mention autism, they think Rain Man, which is so far from the truth. So how do you try to create that bridge so the gap between the known and unknown is a little bit better for those that don't understand autism?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
If you would, let's just tell people what you do and how you got there.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Meet Dr. Theresa Haskins: The Mom Who Rewrote the Rulebook on Autism
That's a great point. How do we move forward from that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
What's really sad, I've spoken with many people the thing that they say, we need to get it changed on the state level. Then I'll talk with others. They say, we need to get it changed on the federal level, because then the federal level will dictate what the state level actually does. However, that's not always the case. Getting anything changed at either level is like climbing Mount Everest.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
I spoke with a legislator on the national level. If it wasn't for his name and connections that he had, which allowed him to get his bill on another bill that was already happening, if not for that, it wouldn't have happened. He worked very hard to get change. So we need more like him that will try to get some things going for everyone's benefit. So how do we get past this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Because it seems like the paperwork is just getting overloaded while people are still getting thrown in the system that just don't belong there.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
I've always been a believer, a firm believer, that if you want to get something done, you work hard enough, it can get done. With that said, when you get into legislation, you get into the political side of things, and then all the parameters of it You just brought it up. Everyone's busy doing their own thing. They're focusing on one case at a time. When that's done, they move on to the next one.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
There has to be a way where someone can get across to these people, make them realize not only are they saving millions of dollars, but they're saving themselves time and they're helping people along the way. I hate to say that it seems hopeless, but boy, it almost seems like you're a novice mountain climber looking at Mount Everest as your first mountain to climb.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yeah, there's a certain amount of the population that will never, ever get better. Unfortunately, they seem to be a lost cause. You just mentioned the homeless. They're not a lost cause. They don't have the knowledge. They don't have the money. They just lost their direction. They have the stress. Some of them are autistic, have sensory overload.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
It just throws them into a world where they just don't know what to do. Then they have those that push back, telling them they can't do it, which takes away their hope in trying to do it. Ultimately, we have to get across to the legislators, both state and national, that this is something that absolutely has to be changed to make things better for everyone. How do we do this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Absolutely. So in closing, what would you like to tell the listeners that you think is important that they hear about what we've been talking about and, of course, what you're doing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yeah, so true. Well, this has been a great conversation, a lot of great information. I appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yeah, I can understand that for sure. Is the criminal justice system really set up to handle mental health or autism?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Not a problem at all. Now, you have been on both sides as a prosecutor and as a defender. What do you see the differences, the way they approach it as a prosecutor and as a defender? How can we help get more understanding for the prosecutors, the judges? Get them to understand that people with autism or mental health issues are not just sitting down and planning out how to commit a crime.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event. We are joined today by Brian Schrader, a seasoned criminal lawyer with a distinguished career in the legal system.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
They are doing things that they just don't understand themselves, which puts them in a situation where they're faced with the legal system.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yeah, absolutely. I think you hit it spot on. I've talked with so many people regarding this subject matter. I've talked with attorneys such as yourself. I've talked with judges, psychotherapists, CIT trainers. They all have similar thoughts such as yourself. Now, I've seen where mental health issues are 1% of the population. The autistic community is 1% of the population.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
They are a small minority, yet their numbers... are staggering with the legal system. Because of that, you would think they would put their heads together, come up with a plan that will help these people. There's a retired judge in Miami that's created a 218,000 square foot facility because he sees the need.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
How do we get other people, other judges, to join this initiative where it can help all these people around the country?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Maitour. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Initially, he served as prosecutor since 2008 and briefly participated in the Mental Health Diversion Program. Subsequently, he transitioned to criminal defense after leaving the state attorney's office. We are fortunate to have him share his vast expertise on our show. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
I recently spoke with a former police officer. He trains other police officers around the country about autism and how to interact with them on a call. He gave me an example that he uses in his class. It shows how a qualified and highly trained police officer can misinterpret the actions of someone that may be autistic.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
The officer did everything by the book and everything he did would have been correct in most every situation except for that one. He had not had any training of autistic people. This autistic person was just stemming and he took it as a drug issue. Everything the autistic person was doing mimicked what a person on drugs would have been doing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
The person did tell the police officer that he was stemming. Unfortunately, the officer just did not understand. He treated it like a drug issue, handcuffed the man. As luck would have it, the mother was close by, explained everything, and it worked out all right. Now, if the mother had not been there, this would have turned into a legal situation.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
I realize that there needs to be more training on the first responders, which a lot of people are doing and a lot of the first responders are getting now. My opinion is the ADA, the DA, judges, anyone involved in the legal system has to get this kind of training. I realize there's not any ongoing training that the legal system has to have,
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yet this is so crucial to getting the understanding of autism and mental health issues out there so that the legal system can better serve those that need it. How do we get that done?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Thanks so much. Can you give us a brief introduction to what you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
Yeah, which is sad. What you just brought up reminds me of a conversation I just recently had with a retired judge. He was sent to a prison. He was 17 years old at the time. The inmate was being treated for schizophrenia and given multiple drugs. As it turned out, he wasn't schizophrenic at all. He was autistic. By seeing that, he remembered it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
When he became a judge, he tried to use empathy in the way that he treated the people that came in front of him. He found by putting them in places they could get treatment, They didn't show up a second time, which saved taxpayers millions of dollars over a period of time.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Shrader: How Autism is Misunderstood in the Legal System
So if one judge in one part of the country can figure this out, why can't we get other judges across the country collectively together so that it could save taxpayers millions and millions of dollars, plus help the people that actually need the help?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
beaten up because he's fat or because he doesn't talk as well as others because he walks funny it's all wrapped up into the neurological differences that's so true i've heard so many stories on how children have been bullied at school they almost always will try to mask it they try so hard to fit in yet they still have that very, very tough time that really affects them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
What can we do to get everyone involved so we can make that change that is so drastically needed?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Yes, absolutely. What are some of the other things that you think are very important for the listeners to hear to help keep them away from the legal system?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
You've been in this business for a long time. How did you become an advocate for autism and mental health within your practice?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
In closing, what would you like to tell the listeners that you feel is very important for them to hear concerning the legal system and what they need to know if they ever find themselves in need of a lawyer?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
That's just great information. With all this information that you've given, it gives the listeners a chance to learn. Hopefully, they'll never have to use it, but it does give them ammunition to advocate for more change across the country.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Exactly. I really appreciate you coming on. Great conversation, great information.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis Special Event. Joining us today is Mark Mahoney. Since the early 80s, Mark has been among a select group of top criminal trial lawyers in Western New York.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
What do you think can be done? to get the judges, the DAs, and the defense attorneys all on the same page. I've talked with judges. I've talked with lawyers. I've talked with therapists. I've talked with so many people within this business. They all have their ideas. How can we get everyone to put their heads together to make this a better system for everyone?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
You bring up the word global. I speak with people all over the world on my podcast. Everyone has the same issues, no matter where they are in the world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
How do we change this mindset so that it gets better for everyone?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
He is currently the only lawyer in North America and possibly worldwide, who dedicates his practice almost exclusively to represent individuals with autism spectrum disorder. He possesses a vast knowledge of information to share with us today. It's both an honor and a pleasure to have him here. Thanks for coming on. Yeah, it's an interesting project you've got there. I appreciate that.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
How do we get past the feel-good part of it and into the doing something about it part?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
What would you give them for a definition why autism is different?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
That must be a tough situation for the prosecutor. They're trying to get the win, yet the people that work around them and the general public just do not know or understand autism.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
If you would, give us a little information about your practice.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
How do we get the politics out of it? You just mentioned the DA running for office. The people that are running against him will be saying that he's not tough enough on crime, etc. ? So what's the answer to get the people that are in this political arena to put their heads together and understand that not all people are the same?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Mark Mahoney: Fighting for Autism Justice
Sometimes they will have some autistic people in front of them that just need a little empathy.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
I imagine you come across a variety of topics in your work. Can you expand on how autism became a big part of your workload?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
How challenging is it to help parents and families shift their approach and mindset when adapting to these strategies?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
In the autistic community, there's unfortunately a high rate of family breakdowns, where husbands and wives struggle to understand each other and end up separating. I believe the divorce rate is around 70-75%. Do you often see autistic children coming from those broken families?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
And when you begin teaching them and implementing your strategies, have you noticed any positive impact on the family unit? Have you observed any changes in that regard?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
That's awesome.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
When a child becomes involved with a legal system, particularly the court system, it can be a frightening and overwhelming experience for the parents, often even more daunting than when they first learned their child was autistic. What advice would you give to parents to help them understand the legal process and what potential outcomes they might expect if the situation is managed well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
What do you think is important for them to hear?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Yeah, that's great information. This has been really, really good. I appreciate you taking the time. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Yeah, that sounds awesome. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
So what developed from there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Oh, I think it's quite a great story, actually. It seems like a lot of times some of the things that are meant to be fall in our laps and we just move forward with them. Sounds like that's what happened to you and it also sounds like that's what you're doing. So how has it evolved from when you very first started to what it's become today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event. Joining us today is Judge Sonny Bailey.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
I've spoken with several judges across the country. They've expressed a clear need for support given situations involving autism, mental health, all within the judicial system. Given the groundbreaking work you're doing, have any judges, legislators, or other officials reached out to you? Are they curious on how you're developing this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
And are they curious on how they might integrate it into their own efforts in their local areas?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
When you're working with an autistic child, what are some of the steps you can take to guide them effectively, helping them understand what they're doing and how to adjust their behavior? One key aspect of autism that people often overlook is autistic individuals may not process or express emotions in the same way as neurotypical people.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
So how do you communicate when they've done something wrong and need to make changes to better adapt to society? What practical steps can you use to support them and how do you help them shift from their current patterns to ones that will work better for them in the future?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
In 2018, Judge Bailey established the Detention Alternative for Autistic Youth Court, a groundbreaking diversionary program to provide services that help youth with autism spectrum disorder stay out of the criminal justice system. It remains the only program of its kind in the nation dedicated to the youth with ASD.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
You mentioned a 90% success rate, which is outstanding. So it's clear these methods you are doing are having an impact What happens next? After going through your system, what kind of progress do you see in these individuals? Are they able to achieve the goals that everyone strives for, like getting a job and finding success in the world?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Or is it more about gradual progress, taking baby steps towards bigger outcomes? How do you measure their success as they move forward through your system?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
It's very well known that males tend to be diagnosed autistic at a rate higher than females because females tend to mask their symptoms and go undiagnosed so to fit in in society. Because of this, do you see more males in your courtroom than females that would go along with this scenario?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
In May of 2023, Nevada became the first state to pass legislation creating a specialty court for youth in the delinquency system who are diagnosed with or suspected of having ASD. We're thrilled to have her here to share her story. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
Despite autism becoming more prevalent and recognized over the past 30 years, it still remains relatively misunderstood. Society still struggles to grasp what autism is and how it affects individuals differently. What are some of the ongoing challenges this lack of understanding creates, particularly in terms of perception?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
And how can these challenges be addressed to better support those with autism within your system? What kind of challenges have you been seeing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
You are on the cutting edge of innovations that other court systems across the country haven't yet implemented. Are you still exploring new ideas and approaches to improve your system?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Judge Soonhee(Sunny) Bailey: Breaking the Cycle and Creating America's First Autism Court Program
If so, what are some of the innovations you're considering or starting to work on, perhaps ones you're gradually introducing, that could expand and strengthen the system you already have and make it even better for the people you're serving?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Well, I really appreciate that. I think you're doing a great thing. So many parents have so many questions that need to be answered. My podcast started just because of that. When I first heard other podcasts out there, they were just so clinical and so sterile. I just imagined if I was a parent just finding out my child is autistic, I would have been more confused than I was before I started.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
So this podcast is just about information, just like you're giving. And the fact that you're giving so many people information is just so good. That's what people need. They need the support. And I think that's just great that you're doing it. It is just so needed.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Perfect. Yeah, that's so true. You brought up a point about fear. Two questions. What was your initial fear when he was about five, six years old? Now let's fast forward. What is your fear today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Unfortunately, you are correct there.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Unfortunately, that is so true. That's the fear of every parent, I'm afraid. You brought up a very interesting point. You questioned yourself what you did. Did you do everything right? That's what I've heard from just about every mother I've spoken with. They have to learn how to look in the mirror, realize that they didn't do anything wrong, everything they did was right.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
The fact that they have a child that is autistic does not fall upon them. I think you're 100% correct. Do not blame yourself.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Yeah, unfortunately, I've heard that from so many. How do people find you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
You say that your life changed. How did it impact you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
That's awesome. I really appreciate it. Is there one last thing that you'd like to leave us with?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
That's just so awesome. Well, this has been great. Great conversation, great topics, great information. I really appreciate you coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Yeah, me too. I really had a great time. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Yeah, that's so rewarding. Now, did you say that you have a child that's nonverbal?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Okay.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me The World. Today we have the privilege of hosting Dr. Tina J. Ramsey, who has an incredible story and journey to share. As a respected author, podcaster, and TV show host, she has accomplished a great deal.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
How old is he now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Oh, okay. Now that we know that he's 18, what did his formative years look like? He was nonverbal at five. Now at 18, he is. How did he get through his teen years and evolve to what he is today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Yeah, that's really tough to take. Now, you got him through up to the 18. Neurotypical kids have a tough time during the teens with the hormones raging and all the different things that's happening. So it's even tougher a lot of times on kids that are neurodivergent. How did your son handle that time in his life?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Well, that's really good to hear. Now that he's 18, is he going to college? What's his life look like now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Most notably, she is here to discuss her personal experience with her autistic son. It's an honor to have her on our show. How are you doing today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Yeah, that's very important. Lots of times parents feel alone and every bit of help they can get is just so important.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Well, even if we did complain, it's not going to do us any good anyways. I appreciate you coming on. If you would, tell us how you became an advocate for autism.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Absolutely. One of the biggest fears that parents have is when they find out their child is autistic. It's the unknown. They don't know what to expect. They don't know what to do. They don't know who to contact. There are just so many questions. The biggest thing that you said is just so important. Don't be afraid to ask questions because you're advocating for your kid.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
What are some of the things that you do now, not only for those that actually need the help, but for those that really need more understanding?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dr. Tina J. Ramsey: Transforming Challenges into Advocacy – Navigating Autism with Resilience and Community Support
Wow. That's great. How big has it grown for you, this community?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Why Not Me the World Humanity Over Handcuffs the Special Event for April
Hi, I'm Tony Mayantour. Imagine a world where the rules don't bend. Where justice feels like a maze with no exit. For autistic people navigating the legal system, this is not imagination. It's reality. Picture your autistic son or daughter tangled in the legal system. or an officer at your door because a meltdown was misunderstood.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Why Not Me the World Humanity Over Handcuffs the Special Event for April
Imagine a loved one walking through a park having a meltdown, which is mistaken for something much worse, a drug overdose. This Autism Awareness Month, we're bringing you a bold, electrifying, special event. Why Not Me, The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis special event will sit down with judges, lawyers, CIT trainers, therapists, legislators, and more.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Why Not Me the World Humanity Over Handcuffs the Special Event for April
They will share gripping stories that will hopefully ignite change. Understanding can rewrite justice. Join us. Help us. Whatever you do, don't miss it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
You brought up many parents do not tell their family that their son or daughter is in the legal system. They may be very embarrassed by it. I could be wrong. It might go well past just being embarrassed. Their son or daughter is caught up in the legal system now. The prosecutor is trying to paint a picture that their son or daughter is this horrible person, which they know is not true.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
That can be so overwhelming and mentally challenging for the parent as well. How do you help them get past the emotional part of their trial in order to get them to be more objective about what's going on? That's a very hard thing to do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
So there's a huge difference between a civil, local and federal court system. Yes. It can be very, very intense in federal court. Yes. Add to that, it can be very, very costly. How does the average person that's just barely getting by, struggling to take care of their kids, how do these people get to a place where they can be on a level playing field with a prosecutor?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
with all the things that can add to the financial burden of defending their child.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
This has been a great conversation. A lot of really, really good information. What do you feel that's important in closing to tell our listeners on what they need to know on what you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Yeah, that's really great advice. I really appreciate you coming on. Great conversation, great information. Thank you, Tony. Appreciate it. The pleasure's all mine. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Yes, that's so true. This is a great thing you're doing. What led you to get involved like you are?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
When you started, what were some of the first things that you did? When you look at it, you have a big mountain to climb. Many times, the only thing that you can do is inch by inch, foot by foot, with hopes of climbing the mountain all the way to the top.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
That's really good to hear. How far apart were these cases that you did this for?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Joining us today is Brian Kalmar, who will share his inspiring journey with his autistic son and the legal system, which ultimately led him to establish D3, Decriminalize Developmental Disabilities. It's an honor to have him on the show. We're grateful to have the opportunity to amplify his story, sparking hope and driving meaningful change. Thanks for coming on. Sure.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Yeah, that's really good work. I've been doing this podcast for about a year and a half. I didn't even realize the situation was a situation. I spoke with a judge. He was just 17 years old. He told me the same story that you just said. He went into a prison situation where an autistic person was given medications. It actually made the situation worse. That was over 40 years ago, maybe even 50.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
So how have we not figured out how we can help these people that end up in the prison system so they can be treated, hopefully to have a much better outcome for everyone involved?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
Absolutely. I think that's very important. Understanding is the key for everything. This podcast is about understanding and trying to get the stories like you're telling now to the people that need to hear it. You've accomplished a lot in Virginia. What's the next step to get it to a national basis for everyone? This is happening across the country and of course around the world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
How do we get this from a local scenario to a national scenario?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
If you would, tell me a little bit about your organization.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
When you have a family, they just find out their son or daughter might have legal issues. It's kind of like when they first found that their son or daughter was autistic. It's the big unknown and it's very, very scary. What do you do to help take away that fear they might have? After all, it is the legal system. It can be very scary.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Brian Kelmar:Breaking Down Barriers: One Father's Fight to Reform Legal Treatment of Autism
What's the first steps that you do to guide them through that process so they can better understand what needs to happen? After all, it is the legal system. A lot of stress accompanies it, and it can be very, very intimidating to them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
That's a tough situation. And they only have seconds sometimes to make a decision on what to do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, absolutely. Now, you're not the only officer that has had an autistic son or daughter in their family.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
I've spoken with many that have. Do you have officers in your travels that you found do have autistic children? They just wanted to hear another perspective that just happened to be yours.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, I get that. Now, where it all starts is in the communication center, 911.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Do you work with them as well? So when they take a call, they can ask some questions and get a better understanding from that. I realize they only have seconds themselves sometimes because they have the other person panicking on the phone.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
But if they could ask a couple of questions, then they could give a little more information to the responding officer that might just make his job a little easier.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yes. And emotions are running high at that point.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Well, it's the adrenaline and it's just pushing them to another level.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, that's a great thing. And if they didn't do it, the opposite could happen. Unfortunately, it could be a tragic ending.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah. So what would you like to tell the listeners that you feel is important that they need to hear?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, that's just great advice. This has been really good. Great conversation, great information. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on this show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
I think that's a great mission to have. So you kind of got trained by your son and now you're helping others because you're finding out that you didn't know exactly what you thought you knew. Right.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event. Join us today as we host Jerry Turning, a 12-year veteran officer and respected canine handler and trainer in the police force.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, that's great. Yeah. Now, once you get that across, the next step is how do you differentiate between those two situations? For example, I spoke with a father. His son was very outgoing, happy kid, walking down the street, singing, having just a good time. Police drove by, questioned him, thought he was high, took him to the precinct. They contacted his dad.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
He came down to the precinct, explained everything, smile. They left, no problems. Now, unfortunately, there are some cases that don't turn out that good. How do you get that across to the police officers you're speaking with so they can make that decision as quickly as they need to sometimes so that it ends in a good situation for everyone involved?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Don't you wish that you just had a piece of paper that you could hand out? Then say here, this is it. This is all you have to do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
His life took a profound turn with the arrival of his autistic son, prompting him to establish Blue Bridge Autism Training. This organization provides autism response training to police, first responders, and search and rescue professionals around the world. We're delighted to share his inspiring story on the show. Thanks for coming on. Oh, it's my honor. Thanks for having me.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Absolutely. I can see that. Now, I've got a reason for asking this question. What were some of the things that your son was doing or not doing which led you to get him diagnosed for his autism?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Yeah, I hear that story a lot with parents. So it's very common. The reason why I asked you this question is, do you use this in your presentation to your fellow policemen?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
Oh, it's my pleasure.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
How do you tell them to handle that? I've got a lot of friends of mine that are first responders. Among them, a lot of them are police. They tell me one of the most dangerous situations they go into... Domestics. Yes, domestic violence. Yeah.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
So when they go into a situation like that, that's called in as domestic violence, but it's just an autistic meltdown. It can get violent, of course, but it's still just an autistic meltdown with a kid that can be six foot, 250 pounds, that can make the house look like a tornado just went through it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Jerry Turning: From Officer to Advocate: One Dad's Mission to Bridge the Gap
What type of approach do you tell them to do so when they do go into it, they don't treat it like a normal domestic violence situation that got out of control?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
That's a list of very important things for people to have access to. Now, what are some of the common dynamics that can happen when police respond to a call involving someone this autistic?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
So how do families seeking support wind up battling the legal system What happened? What caused this outcome to escalate into something they didn't plan on having to do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
So when a family calls for help, they do it for the right reasons, but then it can go in a way that they never saw coming.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
I speak with families across the country consistently. And unfortunately, this is not a regional situation. It's a national one.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis Special Event. Joining us today is Christine Vester.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
If after everything is said and done, an arrest happens, what are the things that the family will be facing when all this starts?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
From what I've heard, the court system sometimes gives the autistic individual a real disadvantage. It can feel very punishing and, of course, very overwhelming to them.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
This can be so overwhelming for the parents involved. Where do you step in with your charity to help those families?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
So even though you're trying to help the families get through this whole ordeal, you're still out there working to try and actually reform the whole legal system itself.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
I use the word perception a lot in my business because perception is everyone's reality, whether it's true or not. So what's true is that in the legal system, an autistic person is completely different. And because of that, needs to be treated as such, can't be treated the same way as others.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Let's focus on something that's a little more concerning to the families, and that's incarceration. What are some of the challenges an autistic person faces when they're incarcerated? What are some of the difficult situations they might come into while they're in there? And then how is it to interact with not only just the prisoners, but the guards that are there?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
She founded Humanity Over Handcuffs with the initiative of breaking the silence on the crisis facing autistic and neurodiverse individuals in the justice system. Through expert insights and a call for compassion over punishment, she is leading the charge to transform lives and systems. She joins us today as we explore her mission to put humanity first and why her work matters to us all.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Yeah, and I've also heard that sometimes they can be put into solitary confinement. That must really affect them as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
What about the staff and, of course, the other inmates as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
I've heard that the prison system is very, very rough on autistic individuals. So can you expand on some of the things that affect them, and even after they're ultimately released?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Yeah, that seems like a very, very tough situation. It almost seems like it's a second sentence in a very different way. Yes.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Now, I know you have a website. Can you expand and give us a little more information on how people can find you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
That's great information. It gives the person an avenue to look for help if they need it, and hopefully they never do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Yes, I agree. Common sense is very important. Now, in closing, give our listeners something that you think is very important that they need to hear about what you're trying to do.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
You're the founder of Humanity Over Handcuffs, a national advocacy effort focused on protecting autistic individuals in the justice system. Can you share what the movement is and why it was so important for you to create it?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
Yes, I agree 100%. Well, this has been great. Great conversation, great information. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Christine Vester: Humanity Over Handcuffs: Protecting Autistic Lives in Legal Battles
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
So this is your number two, right? Second annual, yes. So what kicked it off? What started it all?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Yeah. Yeah. And it's going to what the Kennedy Center in Vanderbilt.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
I've dealt with them. They're nice. They're terrific.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Yeah. That's great. I mean, so it's it must feel good to be able to put something together like this because a lot of people don't realize the hours and the and the and the legwork that it takes to put together a showcase like this with so many different people involved.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Well, it's a need because... I was telling some people just the other day that up until I started this podcast, I really didn't know anything about autism. And now in the last year and a half, I've learned so much. And we don't realize what they go through and what they have to deal with every day. And it's a struggle for a lot of people. So it's a good thing you're doing.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor, and welcome to today's episode of Why Not Me? The World. We're recording live at the Nashville Palace for a special remote podcast, unscripted, unedited and full of heart. Tonight's episode supports an acoustic evening for autism, a show happening right here this evening.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
are dealing with this yeah it's amazing the numbers it is it is so uh so we just wanted to help yeah well i think it's i think it's a great thing you're doing so what we'll have to do later since this is just a preliminary to get you get everybody knowing about what you're doing prior to the show going on we'll have to get you back onto my podcast to do a full episode i'd be thrilled well i appreciate it absolutely all right thank you sir okay thanks
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Okay, I'm here with Devin O'Day, and she's going to be the emcee tonight. So nice to have you here.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Well, you know, it's interesting because for the longest time, we always thought that just the odd man out was just the odd man out. And the odd man out could have been autistic. And with all the people that I've spoken with, it's everyone is different. You know, you've met one autistic person and you've met one autistic person. Oh, that's a beautiful way to say that.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Yeah, and it's like, the sad part about it is that we put a stigma to it, like it's a bad thing. And it's really nice to have people like this coming out tonight to do this show to help support them because they need a lot of help that we don't see. Yeah. So how did you get involved with this particular event?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Yeah. Well, you know, one in seven, they say that one in seven people around the world either know someone who has someone that's autistic in their family. That's pretty huge numbers. That is. That is.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
And, you know, I interviewed one autistic gentleman, and he said you could walk into a pharmacy, you know, with a pharmaceutical company where they're working and doing the microscopes and doing all this stuff for medicines and all this. He goes, throw a pebble because you're probably going to hit someone that's autistic because they're that brilliant.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
The sad part is that we only see the worst. You know, it's like there are unfortunately there are some of those autistic people out there that that don't function well. And they're in their 30s and they've got a brain capacity of like an eight to 12 year old. And that's what we see. We don't see the other ones that thrive. And so we just need to get that word out there.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Yeah, I think we will at some point. It's just unfortunately, we as a country. It's not a problem unless it affects our family.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
We're thrilled to bring you this country experience, and I hope you enjoy it as much as we're enjoying sharing it with you. We've got two fantastic guests joining us tonight. And for the next three weeks, I'll be featuring two guests per episode to dive into everything we're covering right here tonight. Thanks for tuning in. All right, I'm here with Doug Mathis.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Right. Yeah, we've just got to take and find a way to hopefully get people to show more empathy towards others no matter what it is. And then if we get to that point, then we're winning.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Oh, my story is interesting. I did a song right after when COVID was happening, and I wasn't going to put it out. My promoters that I work with in New York, Nashville, L.A., and London said, oh, you've got to put this song out. I said, no, I'm not getting back on the road. I'm not doing any of that. So long story short, I put it out and I did a video supporting our first responders.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
And then after that was done, I had a lady call me up and ask me if I could do something like that for them. And she was a therapist for autistic children. So from that, I did a I did a video called Why Not Me Nashville. And I had local people here in Nashville that there were special needs and autistic in it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
And then from there, I just started working and growing and developing this podcast and now it's almost two years old.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
That's an amazing story.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
That's awesome. Well, I'm looking forward to, you know, listening to you tonight and tell your stories as MC. And it's been a great pleasure having you here.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com, contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
So tell me a little bit about what you're doing tonight.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Country Music Unites for Autism Awareness
The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yes, absolutely. I have a judge coming on the latter part of this month. He started a 218,000 square foot facility. It covers a lot of mental health issues, along with health, dental, and many other things. He found by diverting them to this, as a rule, you don't see them the second time. It also saves the taxpayers hundreds and hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah. Unfortunately, we're in a situation where this country and the judicial system for autistic people has lost control. It's sad. We have not been able to make things better. But here we are, 2025. Another sad thing. I heard the other day that the country's biggest health care facility is the L.A. County Prison. And that shouldn't be.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So true. So if you would, tell us a little bit more about what you do with your charity in trying to bring this to the attention to the people that need to hear about it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah, unfortunately, it is just so out of control. It's kind of like when a kid does something bad, you don't say anything. 30 days later, you start to reprimand him for what he did. He doesn't understand it. He's really confused about it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So to put that into our court system, we've let it get so far out of control that now you can't go back and slap them on the wrist because it's just out of control. Somehow we have to get the judges, the lawyers, the DAs, we have to get them educated about autism so that way they can look at it different and then show a little compassion and empathy towards the victims.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Exactly. I hear that comment so much.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah, I think that's a huge issue. The public just does not understand. I started this podcast less than two years ago. And up until that point, I knew absolutely nothing about autism. Now that I've learned more and understand it more, I look at things completely different than I used to.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
There's enough information coming out now so that if people would actually dig into it a little bit, they would find that autism is not the perception that they once thought it was.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah, that's a great thing that you're doing. So what would you like to tell the listeners that you think it's very important that they need to know about what you're doing?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah, I absolutely agree. Well, this has been great. Good conversation, good information. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So he was able to work then?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
How long ago was this, that this happened?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So it's pretty obvious they didn't give the attention to his autistic diagnosis that they probably should have. Did you get any reasons for that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantour. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis special event. Joining us today is Carol Nistakis, vice president and co-founder of D3, an organization devoted to supporting autistic individuals navigating the complexities of the legal system.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So once the verdict came down, what was the result from that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So before that, you said he was in the Special Olympics.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
What kind of competition did he do with that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
That's great that he enjoyed that. So now that he had to take that plea deal, what happened then? I'm sure that changed the whole landscape.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
That's pretty sad to hear.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Sure. I mean, that sounds really tough. So what happened next?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
After this, I think you got more intense in advocacy, correct?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So how did you move forward with that?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
How did that go, working by yourself?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yeah, and not only that, but if it's taken a toll on him, it's taken on the family as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Her journey began with her son's challenging experiences within the justice system, which exposed the unique struggles faced by autistic individuals and their families. These deeply personal encounters inspired her to advocate for systematic change, provide resources, and offer guidance to others facing similar obstacles.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yes, I've spoke with several people that their sons or daughters have ended up in the prison system, and it's not a pretty sight at all.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
With everything that you've been through, now you're looking back at it. Is there anything that you see that now you might have done a little differently that might have changed the outcome?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So how do we get them educated? They go to work every day. They do what they do. Like you said, they're out there to win. But sometimes compassion has to come into the picture. They have to have a little empathy towards the people they're prosecuting. And it's not like the majority of autistic people are out there just trying to figure out how they can be bad. Sometimes they're the victims.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
So how do we get that across to them so that they can better understand? And then with all of this together, it's a win-win for everyone.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
Yes, I agree. That would help tremendously. It totally amazes me. My podcast this month and next month is having 61 straight episodes about autism, mental health, and the legal system. My first guest this month was a judge in Las Vegas. She runs a court system that diverts the kids out of the legal system as much as possible. It's the only one in the country that does this.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
She's here to share how her experiences shaped her family's path and fueled her commitment to transforming the legal landscape for autistic individuals. It's a pleasure to have you here, Carol. Could you tell us how these events sparked your journey and led to your advocacy?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Carol Nesteikis: Autism and the Justice System
It just shocks me that if she can do it, no one else is trying to do it either. It didn't start out that way, but it just turned into one then another. Now she's the only court system in Las Vegas and the country that does this type of legal system for autistic children. My issue is if she can do it, others around the country should be looking and saying, why can't we do something like this?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
What topics are typically discussed after your classes to improve the interactions between the autism community and the first responders?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Absolutely. How do people contact you so if they want to get some of your videos or your written material, they can order it or find it? How do they find you?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Exactly. Yeah, exactly. Now, is this something that you're going to continue to do? Is this an ongoing thing? What do you see over the next few years for your company and what you're trying to do with autism?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Yeah, this isn't something you take a pill for and it's gone. It's a lifelong thing. People have to figure out how to handle it and work through it so they can do what they want to with their life in society. This way they get to live a fulfilled life without hopefully ever having an issue with the legal system.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Yeah, that's for sure. I wish it was. Now, what would you like to tell the listeners that you think is very important that they need to hear about what you're trying to put across?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Absolutely. Well, this has been great. Great information, great stories. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Well, it's a work in progress for all of us. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
So this ultimately led you to start researching to find more out about it, correct?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
So once you started digging, what path did that lead you on to start helping the autistic world?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
What kind of understanding did that help you with?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantour. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis special event. Joining us today is Dennis DeBott.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Now you've written some books and different things for police. What led you to get involved with helping the police and the first responders identify get a better understanding about autism and how it affects the kids and the people that they would come in contact with.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
You've also worked with a lot of well-known police precincts across the country as well, correct?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Now, you've done several books, but you've also done some films and videos to help them as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mayator. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Do you do one-on-one in a police department where you have a group of police that are there and you talk with them about someone they may come upon that might be having a drug problem or they might be autistic but merely look like they're having a drug problem? Have you had those kind of conversations with them in some of your presentations?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Yeah, I think that's a good thing. I spoke with a presenter the other day, and he told me of an officer that was highly trained in drug enforcement. Came across this person, had all the characteristics that he was high on drugs. He did everything by the book. Unfortunately, this person was autistic. Now, he was unaware. And he was in the process of actually arresting this person.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Thankfully, the mother was close by, came over, was level-headed, told the officer about the autism that her son had. Everything turned out all right. In any other situation, this could have gone the opposite way.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Dennis has been a pioneer in addressing autism-related police issues since the early 1990s, authoring over 40 books, reports, and training videos on the subject. He has trained with NYPD's emergency services, consulted on the Chicago Police Department's autism training, and appeared in major outlets like the New York Times, the Associated Press, among others.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
In your travels, have you come across police during your training that they're listening to you talk about autism? And then after your class is done, they come up to you and they have more to thank you about other than just the training because they have autistic children as well. So you not only help their fellow officers, but you help them and their children as well.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Yeah, that's true. What are you finding as far as their response? For the longest time, autism had a stigma attached to it. They didn't know much about it, so they didn't believe it because they didn't know it. Now they have someone like yourself with lived experience that's worked with other police precincts around the country. Now they understand that it is real.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
So what's the response that you've been getting from them?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Anyone that you've been training or otherwise that just didn't realize what autism is.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
We are excited to have him share his insights with us. Thanks for coming on.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Yeah, that's something that we hope never happens, but unfortunately it is a very real thing that can happen. So have you had training situations where you've gone through your program, officers have listened, then they walk away not fully understanding everything because there's a lot to understand.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Then at a later date, you may hear from them or hear from their precinct that what you trained them actually worked. And the response from it was just they were really glad that they had taken your class on autism.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Dennis Debbaudt : reveals how proper training can prevent tragic misunderstandings between autism and law enforcement.
Well, thanks. I appreciate your kind words. Can you give us a little insight on your journey to doing what you're doing today?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
How do you get the points across that you feel are most vital for them to remember and That way they do not forget it because as we know, it's the most important things that they remember, even if they forget some of the little things that hopefully they retain that could be most important to having a much better outcome than what it could have been.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Yeah, that's great. Perfect, actually. There's a wide spectrum in autism. However, there's also a wide spectrum in how we treat people with autism. The key is how we bridge that gap between autism and the first responders. The first ones that respond is always thought of as being the police. So it's very important that we do bridge that gap for sure. Hypothetical here.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
What happens if they have a knife? Not a gun, just a knife. They're not showing real aggressive behavior. It's a dangerous thing to have for sure. What do you advise them to do so in the end, the outcome is one that everybody is happy with?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Absolutely. In closing, what do you feel is important that the listeners hear that needs to be covered in what you do?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Good. I appreciate you coming on. Great conversation. A lot of great information.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
I appreciate it. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to TonyMantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, The Silent Crisis special event. Joining us today is Bart Barter. He is a retired law enforcement commander with over 31 years of experience.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
When you have a class, what does your audience look like? Is it police, firefighters, EMTs, operators from the 911 comm centers, or do you talk with each one of them individually as a group?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
what's the first thing that you tell them to start your class off they are sometimes going into the unknown they don't know whether it's autism or another mental health issue it could be adhd bipolar schizophrenia or anything else mental health related with the police sometimes they only have seconds to make a determination so how do you tell them to approach it so the situation does not get out of control so it can be handled
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
in a very good way where everybody walks away knowing that they did their very best to ultimately have a satisfying conclusion?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real-life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
He joins us today to discuss his company, Autism Safety 101, whose mission is to provide first responders with the necessary tools and tactics to achieve optimal outcomes when interacting with individuals on the autism spectrum. He possesses a wealth of knowledge and we are just so delighted to have him on the show. Thanks for coming on. It's a pleasure. Thank you for having me.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Do you tell them about your son in their training?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
Oh, it's my pleasure.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Bart Barta: Training First Responders for Autism Encounters
When you first start talking with the officers, it's like anything else. It can be two hours, four hours, six hours, eight hours. At the end of any conference, whether it's two hours all the way up to eight hours, there's going to be certain points that they remember. There will be certain points they will forget.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
How long has it been established and actively making an impact, and how have you seen it grow?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
With all the different things that you've accomplished, what led you to advocating for autism and special needs?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So having the platform you have, you likely have countless people reaching out to you. What are some of the challenges you've encountered while working with them? And what are some of the successes you've achieved in helping them along the way?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
One of the things that we lightly touched upon is, just as you recently mentioned, is the geography of things. Do you talk with or do you have people that are advocating for legislators to make change so that we can turn this into a national rule of law rather than just a regional one?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
That's just so good to hear. Now, a lot of people do not understand or realize how difficult it is to get a bill through the House or through the Senate. I have a couple of former House of Representatives coming on my podcast later this month, Tim Murphy and Patrick Kennedy. They both talk about how they got bills passed through and how difficult it was in getting that done.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
It's a real tough issue to get these people to get this done. So how do you tell people or inform people on what to do to put the pressure on these representatives to help get this passed, to help the people that need it?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Yes, that totally makes sense. I've also heard, and I'm sure that you've probably helped people on this as well, I've heard that if one person goes in to see their representative, they tell them their story, then they leave, the representative says, oh, that's nice, we'll see what we can do. But...
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
When they have people that show up in groups that continually keep it in front of them and they're consistently hearing about the issue at hand, then that will keep it on their mind more often than not and consider helping. So do you put together groups like that or do you help put together groups like that so they're more informed on what to do with their representatives?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
That's really good to hear. Now, are there other things that you do as well to help these activists or people in general so they know the direction to take?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
I'm curious if you also assist with fundraising ideas, as that's one of the biggest challenges I hear about from various organizations. They often struggle to raise funds because, unfortunately, conditions like autism and certain mental health issues aren't visibly apparent.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
People tend to donate more readily when they can see a physical disability, like with Down syndrome, compared to supporting someone who doesn't outwardly appear to have a problem but is dealing with brain function challenge. Do you offer help in this area as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Oh, I agree that they need support and it will not stop some from supporting them. I've just heard from organizations that it has been tougher because one person told me that he had an autistic child and another one that was autistic with Down syndrome and the money came pouring in for the one with Down syndrome more than the autistic one. So unfortunately, that's just one challenge they face.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So now I understand that you also do a lot of public speaking.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
When you travel to different places and do your speaking, what are some of the common things that people will talk to you about after you've finished?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So what would you like to tell the listeners that you think is very important that they need to know about what you do and what you're trying to do to help everyone you can with your foundation?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Absolutely. Do you have any events coming up in the future?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
That's awesome. I think that's a really good thing you're doing. Well, this has been great. Great conversation, great information. I really appreciate you taking the time to come on. Thank you so much. I appreciate it. It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to tonymantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
How old is your son now?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So along this journey, how has your approach evolved as you've navigated the unknown, learned, and grown over the years? What significant shifts have you observed in your perspective, methods, or growth along with working with others compared to where you first started?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
What were some of the initial challenges you encountered? How did you tackle them and eventually overcome them?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So with all those challenges, plus with the input that was coming to you, what was the next thing you did and how did you address it from that point on?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Hopefully you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event. Today, we're joined by Areva Martin, a passionate, outspoken, and insightful leader who's making a significant impact in media.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
From what I understand, you've also written a book that delves into this journey and its many facets. Is that correct?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Sure, I think that's great. Now, with all those powerful tools and resources right at your fingertips, have you found ways to harness them to advocate for your autistic child and extend that support to others across the spectrum as well?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
I'm hosting a special this month featuring 30 straight episodes on autism and the legal system. It features CIT trainers, judges, former legislators, of course this episode. It's a silent crisis. Many do not realize the immense legal challenges faced by autistic individuals. Have you encountered this at all?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Sure. I've had in-depth discussions with numerous parents who've recounted the profoundly distressing and often traumatic experiences of their autistic children becoming entangled in the complexities of the legal system. Many ending up incarcerated and enduring an excruciating and traumatic ordeal. They've expressed to me with...
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
frustration that the judges, attorneys, and the entirety of the judicial system appeared utterly uninformed and ill-equipped to understand the nuances of autism, leaving their children to flounder helplessly through an intimidating, relentless, and unforgiving process. Have you come across anything like this in your journeys?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
What are your thoughts on navigating a situation where legal issues arise, especially regarding how we can improve the perception of judges and the ADA and the district attorney's office?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
How can we foster a better understanding that when someone with autism engages in certain behaviors, it might not stem from criminal intent, but rather from a lack of understanding or a belief that the behavior is normal? What steps do you think we can take to shift that perception?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
She's a CNN contributor, an award-winning civil rights attorney, a civic leader, and a television host. Areva is also a prolific writer and best-selling author with notable books like The Everyday Advocate, Standing Up for Your Child with Autism, and Make It Rain.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
How can we effectively expand awareness and understanding of autism, especially regarding legal challenges? There was an incident where an autistic young man was nearly arrested in a park due to an officer mistaking his behavior for drug use.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
So how do we get the information and education out there so that we can drive systematic change, influence national policies, and create a meaningful impact across the country?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
She's here to share her personal story about raising her autistic son, as well as details about her foundation and upcoming speaking events. With a wealth of knowledge and experience, we're truly honored to have her here with us. Thanks for joining us. Oh, thank you. Thanks for the invitation. Oh, it's my pleasure.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
Yes, they certainly do. In Las Vegas, there's a judge who has a system in place that is the one of a kind. There's no other one like it in the country. This court system effectively diverts young children away from the legal system. I'm truly puzzled as to why she's the only one doing this.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
What can we do to expand this approach, ensuring that those who don't belong in the system are redirected, and how can we help other judges recognize the value of this method that she has put in place?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
I'm really glad you brought that up because you have a tremendous platform. What are some of the things you do? I know you've written a book. So what are some of the things you're doing to bring more awareness and help these people out?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Areva Martin: How One Mother Became an Everyday Autism Advocate
I'm glad you brought that up. I'd love to dive into your foundation. What's it called and can you expand on what you do to help people within your communities?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Yeah, absolutely.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Yeah, that's good. Now, you mentioned your business. You started this business with the sole purpose of creating an environment for those with special needs that need help and need work. Can you expand on that a little?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Correct.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
So what you're doing is open the doors for so many people and that's just a great thing for everybody.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Yes, and it's very inspiring. People like you hopefully will show others that this can be done. And if you can do it, it's the old saying, I can do it if you can do it. So let's hope that this catches on in a very big way. With that said, I really appreciate you coming on. It's been great.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Yes, I truly believe so. And again, thanks for coming on. It's been great. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to TonyMantor.com.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show. One more thing we ask, tell everyone, everywhere, about Why Not Me? The World, the conversations we're having, and the inspiration our guests give to everyone everywhere that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
That's tough to hear for sure. So once you heard that from the doctor, what was your next steps?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World. Today, we have the pleasure of hosting Mike Gesser, co-founder of Clean Logic.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
That's a great story. Now, you mentioned school. Was she in private school, public school? How did you set that up so that she was able to integrate with other kids so not to be in isolation because of her situation?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
That's interesting. Was there a specific reason why you moved to Philadelphia?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
That's a great thing for sure. How is it working for your daughter? When schools integrate autistic people, people with mental health, disabilities, anything like that, it really is confusing for some of the kids and even for some of the teachers because they don't understand it. But the kids definitely don't understand sometimes. And that can create some issues within the classroom sometimes.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. Real-life people who will inspire... and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
So how is that working out for her with how you've handled it so far?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Absolutely. I think that's just a great way to look at things. Unfortunately, we don't live in a society that accepts that the way it should.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
But it's something that definitely needs to be taught for sure. I agree. The school system actually is the perfect place. If they work together, show these kids that anyone with disabilities are exactly the same, they just handle things a little bit differently, they could create that bridge for future change.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Driven by his daughter Rosie's neurodiverse experience, Clean Logic has developed a commitment providing inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities. His story is captivating and I'm delighted to have him on the show. Thanks for coming on. Sure. What started your journey of helping autistic people and special needs?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Absolutely. It sounds like to this point, everything has worked out pretty well for her.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
When we have programs out there, we lay it out. We try and make it as comfortable, easy as possible with a good transition. But real life says there's going to be bumps in the road. What have you come across with bumps in the road that you didn't expect?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
And then when they came up, what was your resolution to them so that the people listening can hopefully gain from some of the things that you went through?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Yeah, completely. You just said it. We take things for granted. Here in the US and in places around the world, we go about our lives not thinking about anything. Unfortunately, we don't think about it until it affects us. Then when it affects us, we are more compassionate and more understanding. But unfortunately, it takes that to happen to us before we start taking action.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Then when it does affect us, the world becomes very scary. We don't know what to do, what to do next, how things go, the process. It can be very scary. What would you tell a parent that's just finding out that their life is going to change? They have a child that's just been diagnosed and it doesn't matter what the diagnosis is. It could be autism. It could be mental health. It could be
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
bipolar, it could be Down syndrome, MS, anything. Anything like that is very scary. The parent has to collect themselves, get their heads together, know what to do, and it's a tough road. What would you give them for advice so that they could kind of map out what to do that best helps them and helps their child?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
Absolutely. That's a great point. Now, she's 11, right?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
BONUS EPISODE: Mike Ghesser: A Father's Mission to Transform the World for Neurodiverse Individuals
What do you see for her in the next five years? She's going to be going through her teen years, which is tough for even neurotypical people. So what do you see for her through her teen years and then past that once she gets out of high school? What's on the horizon for her?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
We have different areas of the country that look at things completely different. That could be Florida, Connecticut, Michigan, or even out west in California.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
How do we get something that's more concrete, that's more of a national standard, that gives the opportunity for people to change some things a little bit more, makes it a little bit less complex, even though it's going to stay as complex as it probably is,
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Yet it makes it a little easier for people like yourself to talk with a prosecutor that gives the opportunity for compromise, allowing a lighter sentence and giving the opportunity for that person to be defended a little bit easier and then hopefully giving them a better life because of what you did.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Now, many times I'm sure you will have people that have co-occurring situations going on They could be autistic, ADHD, autistic, bipolar. There are just so many different variables that could be happening at any given point of time.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Now, as a defense attorney, how do you talk with the prosecution to give them the understanding that there are several different things that are happening here, which might have led to the situation that they're facing today in court?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
We've talked about so many great things, and I'm sure there's so many things that we could have talked about. What would you like to tell people in closing that they need to hear, that you feel is very important for them to hear in case they ever might see themselves in a situation where the legal system might be part of their life going forward?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Yeah, that's great. Now, I've got one last question or statement in question. I spoke with a judge that told me if the defense and the prosecution could put their heads together, compromise, come up with a solution that could help that person either with meds or whatever the case may be, that this just might lead to where he would not see that person a second time.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
What's your opinion on how we get that message across the country so that people can have more empathy towards people like this so we can divert that incarceration?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
This has been a great conversation with a lot of great information. Thanks for coming on. I really appreciate it.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
It's been my pleasure. Thanks again. Thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to listen to our show today. We hope that you enjoyed it as much as we enjoyed bringing it to you. If you know anyone that would like to tell us their story, send them to TonyMantor.com. Contact, then they can give us their information so one day they may be a guest on our show.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
One more thing we ask, tell everyone everywhere about Why Not Me? The World. The conversations we're having. and the inspiration our guests give to everyone, everywhere, that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Since you didn't know a lot about mental health and autism when you first started, What are some of the things that you find they do that people, mainly judges, district attorneys, don't understand? How do you approach that so you can help them understand what your client's going through so it can make a better outcome in the end for them?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Hopefully, you gain more awareness, acceptance, and a better understanding for autism around the world. Hi, I'm Tony Mantor. Welcome to Why Not Me? The World, Humanity Over Handcuffs, the Silent Crisis special event.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
When a parent finds that their son or daughter has a legal problem, it's a lot like when they found that their child was autistic or had mental illness. It's the big unknown. That's very scary and they just don't know what to do. What do you give them for advice when they find that they're going to be thrown into this big scary cavern and that's called the legal system?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Yes, that shows that there certainly are many layers to figuring this whole thing out. With that said, what's their first steps? What would you advise them to do to move forward so that hopefully we can have a good outcome?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Welcome to Why Not Me? The World Podcast, hosted by Tony Mantor. Broadcasting from Music City, USA, Nashville, Tennessee. Join us as our guests tell us their stories. Some will make you laugh, some will make you cry. real-life people who will inspire and show that you are not alone in this world.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
Today's guest is Elizabeth Kelly, a renowned criminal defense lawyer with a nationwide practice specializing in representing individuals with diverse issues, including autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, major depression, dementia, and schizophrenia, traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and intellectual disabilities.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
We have so many people out there around the world that just don't get it. Unfortunately, it's not just the justice system. They have a lack of understanding about autism and of course, serious mental health.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
When we have that kind of an issue that goes here in the States and around the world with just everyday, normal, average people, how do we get the justice system to catch up on what these people are going through with the struggles that they face on a daily basis?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
She is licensed to practice before the US Supreme Court, has written several books, lectures across the US, as well as abroad on representing people with mental disabilities. It is an honor to have her on the show. Thanks for coming on. Can you share with us how your journey in this field started?
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
I think you brought up a great point with the definition of the terms that we're using with the innocence and, of course, the varying degrees of that. How do we paint a better picture to the judges and of course the prosecutors for that? Some prosecutors are looking for the win and the judges are trying to be as impartial as they can to create that verdict.
Tony Mantor: Why Not Me the World
Elizabeth Kelley:Autism in the Legal System: A Defense Attorney's Perspective
How do we get that definition of what you just said to the minds of the prosecutors so they can have a little bit more empathy towards the accused with hopefully a better outcome rather than a negative one where they could be facing incarceration.