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Together, they built something bigger: the Refrigerator Moms Podcast and a resource-rich platform aimed at challenging outdated narratives and empowering parents to think critically.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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