Ep. 106 – Two Generations, One Diagnosis with Marlene

In this episode, Rashidah speaks with Marlene Soto-Riera, disability advocate, author, and founder of Helping Swans Co. Marlene shares her journey as a mother and grandmother of children with autism, her mission to build inclusive communities, and how she made history by organizing Newton County, Georgia’s first-ever Autism Awareness and Inclusion Event.

What we discuss:

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:57 AJ's Early Challenges and Advocacy

04:17 Navigating the Unknown: Emotional Journey

08:54 The Diagnosis: Coffin-Siris Syndrome

12:36 Finding Community and Support

16:01 The Role of Faith and Determination

18:43 Balancing Family Dynamics

24:33 Grandmother's Perspective on Autism Advocacy

27:24 Navigating Family Dynamics and Guilt

30:29 Understanding Guilt and Its Evolution

33:35 The Role of a Grandparent in Advocacy

38:36 Learning from Experience: A Guide for Parents

44:42 Advice for Grandparents: Being Present and Supportive

50:13 Empowerment Through Advocacy and Self-Belief

If you found Marlene's episode informative and inspiring, please don't forget to subscribe and share this episode with another fellow badass mom or someone who you feel would benefit!

Connect with Marlene:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/momadvocatemarlene/

Tik Tok: momadvocatemarlene

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast

Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast

YouTube: www.youtube.com/theabmpodcast