314:My Army Featuring Ross Steel, Caleb Creamens, Andie Schroyer, and Maddie Jordan

I want to start by wishing you a Merry Christmas, and this episode of Autism Rocks and Rolls is my gift to you. I talk about fishing in this episode and why people with autism spectrum disorders might enjoy it. I also liken autism to the components on a fishing pole and the equipment in a fisherman's tacklebox. I even talk about the different kinds of fishing and how they represent autism. Lastly, I explain the reasons why people with autism spectrum disorders may quit fishing in the middle of a fishing expedition. https://omegaquant.com/new-research-on-the-connection-between-fish-consumption-and-autism/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1-aAdGSsr8 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ccex2U7LL1Y https://castforkids.org/ https://autismanglers.org/

Today, I'm joined by the amazing Jimmy Clare. In addition to being a professional conference speaker, podcaster, and on-demand streaming host, Jimmy Clare is also an autism advocate because he falls into the autism spectrum. In 2025, he has an event planned out. Welcome to Autism Rocks and Rolls, Jimmy Clare. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crazyfitnessguy-healthy-living-podcast/id1507800194 https://www.crazyfitnessguy.com/  

Sara Bradford, an avid advocate of autism, will be spending the day with me. She is the originator of SJ Childs Global Network, a nonprofit that positively impacts the lives of numerous families. Sara is also the chief executive officer of SJ Childs LLC, a consulting organization that supports families with autism. As a representative of The Autism Council of Utah, Sara remains involved in the autism community. Because her spouse and two children are also autistic, Sara has a unique perspective and a greater understanding of the challenges faced by families with autism. She provides families with useful tools and information as the voice of The SJ Childs Show Podcast and a well-known speaker on autism. Sara continues to improve her area by working with local colleges and hospitals on autism services, police education, and corporate organizations. Finally, Sara is the published author of SJ Childs, a pen name that addresses a range of subjects, such as dyslexia, anxiety, physical differences, and autism. By helping children discover their own identities and supporting those with neurodiverse needs, these books promote love and acceptance in all situations. She now understands autism better after being recently diagnosed with ASD. https://sjchilds.org/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sj-childs-show/id1559173761

Instead of having one, two, or three friends, I have four with me today. First up is the outstanding Ross Steel. Ross was diagnosed with autism at the age of three after being born in 2003. He has been placed on the honor roll several times and was awarded a sizable college scholarship. He also runs his own Instagram program, Steel Reviewing. I also have a country guy named Caleb Creamens. Born in 2004, Caleb, who is from Washington, Indiana, has cerebral palsy. Like me, he studies broadcasting at Vincennes University. Caleb also likes wrestling, NASCAR, basketball, football, and country music. Next is my close companion, Andie Schroyer. Andie serves as a 21-year-old student studying medical lab science. She does drawings and games in her spare time. She grew up with her cousin, who was diagnosed with Malan syndrome and autism. And last, Maddie Jordan, who is amazing. Maddie was born in December 2001. She currently works as a teacher at Bloomfield Elementary. In addition to being the drummer in the Greene County Community Band, her younger sister is on the autism spectrum, and they are here to give their perspectives on having a friend with autism. Please give these incredible people a warm welcome.

I'm going blue for this episode because I discuss the reasons why people on the autism spectrum are afraid of police enforcement personnel. Additionally, I also talk about how a caretaker can help and improve the circumstances. I also advise parents on how to help their autistic children engage with police enforcement in a courteous and peaceful manner. I also provide law enforcement personnel with supplies like sensory bags, which makes things better. Lastly, I explain what people with autism can do and how law enforcement personnel can work together. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X1v0RKKH2k https://autismriskmanagement.com/ https://www.bluebridgetraining.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_MTHTO0Ptw    

Today, I am joined by Katie Deckard from Experience VU, who I hold in the highest regard. Since 2022, Katie has been the director of Experience VU at Vincennes University. Katie holds her doctorate in education from the University of Southern Indiana and an undergraduate degree from Indiana University in secondary special education and light interventions. Having spent seven years as a high school teacher, Katie is a passionate supporter of a universal framework for learning. She is currently a mentor for college students with disabillities. Katie loves to spend her free time on the farm with her dog Mabel and her recently married husband Colby. Let's welcome the incredibly sweet Katie Deckard to the podcast. https://www.vinu.edu/experience-vu.html

Join me as I speak about patience. I also discuss the patience level folks on the autism spectrum have. I also give examples of situations in which people with autism could become impatient. Additionally, I describe how parents and children with autism may pass on patience to one another. I even explain why patience is a virtue that should be shared by all people. It doesn't end there since I also provide advice to children and their parents on what to do if they start to lose patience.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JPTWpDiykZQ https://medium.com/@miamiautismdad/how-my-autistic-daughter-taught-me-patience-1b1b2740296b

In this episode, I speak about catastrophizing and what this concept is about. I also tell the parents the statements they should and should not say when those on the autism spectrum catastrophize. I even tell the parents some triggers that make those on the spectrum catastrophize. I as well tell the parents what it is like in our brain when we catastrophize. Finally, I do give some help because I give the parents ideas on how to manage the catastrophic thinking.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yFmqbYqJzvY

Endre Hoffmann, the Doctor of Self-Worth, who is also my sponsor and friend, will approach this episode differently. Endre helps business owners reach their greatest potential and bring about dramatic shifts. He offers support to entrepreneurs who are overworked, exhausted, insecure, and self-conscious. He assists them let go of the conflict so they can achieve confidence and inner serenity. He assists individuals in rediscovering their innate sense of value and authentic leadership. As reported by someone who worked with him: I knew he needed to come on after my session. Please give the proper respect to this man and give Endre a warm welcome to Autism Rocks And Rolls.  https://doctorofselfworth.com/

My fellow professional wrestling friends are in for a treat today as I am accompanied by WWE Hall of Famer Jake The Snake Roberts. Considered by many to be one of the most well-known figures in professional wrestling, Mr. Roberts was well-known for his dark appeal, clever and powerful promos, frequent use of trickery in his matches, and inventive usage of the DDT finisher. His two grandkids have cerebral palsy and autism, which is why he appears on my show. Jake, on the other hand, has a unique story to tell; despite having COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and having experienced drug and child abuse , he continues to live his life. Let's welcome resident snake, Jake The Snake Roberts to Autism Rocks and Rolls.