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Faria Ash on Building the Autism Foundation, Training, Advocacy, and Safer Care in the UK Host Tony Mantor welcomes back autism advocate Faria Ash, who returns to share her progress since discussing her book on toilet training for autistic and SEND children and adults, based on her nonverbal daughter Aia’s real-life story. Faria explains that the book’s success led her to form the Autism Foundation in the UK (officially launched October 2023), expanding from workshops into autism training for communities, professionals, schools, and care homes, with a focus on communication, social interaction, repetitive behaviors, sensory impairments, and...

Lois Brady on Autism Digest, Real Stories, and Raising Expectations in Autism Support Host Tony Mantor welcomes Lois Brady, publisher of Autism Digest and a speech-language pathologist, to discuss how the magazine blends expert guidance with lived experience using multimedia features like QR-linked videos. Brady shares how writing Apps for Autism and contributing to Autism, Asperger’s Digest led to her acquiring the publication nearly two years ago. As the mother of an autistic son, she describes early signs, being brushed off by providers, choosing not to label him in school, and the long-term effort that helped hi...

n this episode of Why Not Me, host Tony Mantor, broadcasting from Nashville, Tennessee, delves into the mental health challenges faced by first responders and veterans. Featuring Dr. Jean Cillo, a clinical and forensic psychologist, and retired Lieutenant Tom Antonette from the NYPD, the discussion explores the PTP (Post Tour Processing) program, a pioneering mental health support initiative designed by law enforcement for law enforcement, now expanded to all first responders. The episode emphasizes the importance of providing a safe space for first responders to process trauma, the critical role of peer support, and the continuous efforts...

Embracing Autism and Mental Health: Psychiatrist David Hager's Journey In this episode of 'Why Not Me, Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide,' host Tony Mantor speaks with psychiatrist David Hager about his unplanned journey into psychiatry, his work in correctional facilities, and his unique perspectives on mental health and serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia. Hager shares his experiences from various jobs, discusses the challenges and strategies of treating incarcerated populations, and underscores the importance of viewing severe mental illnesses as neurological disorders. The conversation also touches on the issue of anosognosia and the need for...

Empowering Lives: Autism, Mental Health, and Healing with Dr. Cochrane In this episode Dr. Cochrane, a renowned psychologist with over three decades of experience. Together, they explore the challenges and strategies for addressing issues faced by neurodivergent individuals and those suffering from trauma. Dr. Cochrane shares her compassionate approach to cognitive behavioral therapy, the importance of self-regulation, and the power of gratitude practice. Through vivid examples, she illustrates the profound impact of vigilant parenting, therapy, and the critical distinction between feelings and facts. This powerful conversation underscores the importance of seeking help and fostering...

Empowering Mental Health: Dr. Robert Laitman's Journey with Psychotic Illnesses and Clozapine Therapy In this episode Dr. Robert Laitman, an internal medicine specialist with substantial experience in treating serious mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Dr. Laitman shares his deeply personal journey of treating his son, Daniel, who developed schizophrenia 20 years ago. He discusses the challenges of finding effective treatment, the benefits and intricacies of Clozapine therapy, and the need for a comprehensive, empathetic approach in mental healthcare. His advocacy for early and assertive management of psychotic illnesses, combined with cognitive enhancement and...

Embracing Neurodiversity: A Conversation with Sarah Hartley In this episode of 'Why Not Me: Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide, Sarah Hartley, founder of SLH Creative Group and an advocate for the neurodivergent community. Sarah shares her journey as the mother of two neurodivergent boys and details her work as an ADHD and neurodiversity certified coach. She discusses her 'Purposefully Me' series, a collection of children's books addressing topics like anxiety, ADHD, dyslexia, and more. These books are designed to foster understanding and offer practical strategies for children and their parents. Sarah also talks...

Navigating Burnout and Embracing Wellbeing with Garrett Wood Join host Tony Mantor on this episode of Why Not Me as he engages with Garrett Wood, a national board certified health and wellness coach. The show delves into Garrett's innovative and compassionate approach to battling burnout and enhancing wellbeing. Listen as Garrett shares his expertise on managing the pressures of professional success and personal joy, particularly for individuals with autism and ADHD. From his unique A3 framework to real-life success stories, Garrett's insights inspire and remind us that true success is built through nurturing our wellbeing.<...

In this episode we hear from Jennifer McGee, a visual artist and advocate for autism. Jennifer shares her transformative journey of adopting her non-verbal autistic nephew, Isaiah, and becoming his devoted guardian and advocate. She discusses her transition from art to advocacy and how Isaiah's presence inspired her to write children's books like 'Izzy Can't Talk' and its upcoming sequel 'Izzy Can't Talk, But He Can Make Friends.' Jennifer describes the challenges they faced, the resources they utilized, and the incredible progress Isaiah has made. She also touches upon her aspirations to foster inclusion and...

In this episode of 'Why Not Me, Embracing Autism and Mental Health Worldwide,' host Tony Mantor welcomes Steven Seidel, founder of the Del Agency and a TEDx speaker. Steven shares his powerful journey from California to Kentucky, dealing with personal loss, and launching the Gents Journey to address men's mental health. He discusses the creation of his online men's group, the challenges and successes encountered along the way, and the development of the Journey Deck, a tool to aid emotional wellbeing. The conversation explores the importance of connection, community, and storytelling in fostering mental health while...

This episode of Why Not Me, host Tony Mantor discusses with special guest Salima Adelstein, a renowned Sufi mystic and master healer, about her lifelong dedication to spiritual healing and education. Salima shares her journey from teaching special needs children to becoming a spiritual guide, highlighting the transformative power of Sufi practices. The episode explores the challenges and successes of alternative education systems, integrating spirituality with healing, and the personal growth and inner peace found through Sufi teachings. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding and compassion in navigating mental health and autism, offering insights into the...

In this episode of 'Why Not Me?', hosted by Tony Mantor from Nashville, Tennessee, special guest Dr. Diana Driscoll shares her powerful journey of overcoming Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). An accomplished optometrist and patient advocate, Dr. Driscoll discusses her decade-long battle with chronic illness, the evolution of her research, and her groundbreaking insights into the systemic nature of POTS and related conditions. She delves into the impact of inflammation on the autonomic nervous system, the challenges of obtaining proper diagnoses, and the development of her patented supplement blends designed to mitigate these health issues. ...