Ep. 134 – Finding Your People in the Middle of Autism with Julianna

In this powerful and informative episode of Autism for Badass Moms, Rashidah sits down with Julianna Scott, a mom from San Jose and mother of two adult sons, one of whom is autistic.

Julianna shares her journey of early diagnosis at just two years old—following prematurity, speech delays, and intense meltdowns—and what it looked like to navigate those early years. From diving deep into research to utilizing therapy and focusing on her son’s specific needs, she opens up about the reality behind advocating while still trying to understand it all.

But this episode goes even deeper.

Julianna reflects on the moment that changed everything—meeting her long-time friend Kelley Jensen in a gymnastics class. What started as a simple connection turned into a lifelong friendship rooted in honesty, humor, and zero judgment. Together, they built something bigger: the Refrigerator Moms Podcast and a resource-rich platform aimed at challenging outdated narratives and empowering parents to think critically.

They also tackle the history and harm behind the “refrigerator mother” theory—reclaiming the narrative, unpacking guilt, and confronting misinformation that once blamed mothers for their child’s autism.

This conversation is a reminder that while this journey can feel isolating, finding your people can change everything.

 

In this episode, we discuss:

 00:00 Badass Mom Welcome

01:18 Finding Your People

02:19 Meet Julianna Scott

03:37 Small Talk Warmup

04:45 Friendship with Kelly

06:15 Early Signs and Diagnosis

09:13 Action Mode Research

11:35 Hard Years and Progress

12:40 Searching for Support

14:52 Autism Community Hierarchy

17:02 Losing Friends and Shrinking World

24:22 Keeping Friendships Healthy

27:41 Friendship Expectations Plane

29:25 Grace Through Friend Loss

30:17 Safer Autism Spaces

31:33 Refrigerator Mom Origins

35:08 Reclaiming Mom Guilt

37:13 Finding Real Community

39:37 Podcast Format Resources

44:30 Advice for New Moms

46:38 What Makes You Badass

49:53 Closing and Guest Call

 

Connect with Julianna

Be sure to follow Julianna and stay connected to her work and community.

Check out the Refrigerator Moms Podcast for more real, honest conversations and valuable resources for autism families.

Instagram: www.instagram.com/refrigeratormoms

Facebook: www.facebook.com/refrigeratormoms

TikTok: refrigeratormoms

 

 

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