Voices Beyond the Spectrum

In this episode, host Karla Chinen talks with Breese Maldonado Mejia about growing up as a sibling to a brother with autism—navigating caregiving responsibilities, missed experiences, and the feeling of being a "glass child." Breese shares candid memories, challenges with guilt, and the ways the role shaped her identity.
She also discusses how her experiences inspired her career as an occupational therapy assistant, the impact on relationships and future plans, and offers encouraging advice to other siblings: you matter, you deserve care, and it's okay to live your own life.

Host Karla Chinen talks with Carol Larkin, a parent and Proxy Parent Foundation Director of Client Relations, about recognizing autism, the emotional impact of diagnosis, and the early therapy journey during the pandemic.
They discuss practical support—community connections, juggling work and appointments, sibling dynamics—and explain long‑term planning tools like special needs trusts and proxy caregiving to ensure care and stability for neurodivergent children into adulthood.

Welcome to this special bilingual episode of Voices Beyond the Spectrum. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Uver Maldonado, a young autistic artist who has turned his passion for art into a thriving business. With the unwavering support of his family, Uver has embraced his creative journey, using his art to express his emotions and inspire those around him.
In the second half of the episode, we hear from Mari Mejia, Uver's mother, who shares the challenges and joys of raising an autistic child. Her story is one of strength, resilience, and undying support for her children's dreams and ambitions.
Together, this family has built a business centered on purpose, inclusion, and love, showcasing the power of community and the importance of supporting one another. Tune in to hear their heartwarming stories and learn how they navigate their unique journey.

Welcome back to Voices Beyond the Spectrum, where real stories illuminate the path for parents and caregivers of autistic and neurodivergent children. Today, our host Karla Chinen welcomes Ruth Cassell, an incredible mother, wife, and autism strategist, who shares her inspiring journey of unmasking and embracing identity after her son's autism diagnosis. Listen as Ruth opens up about the challenging moments and revelations that followed receiving the diagnosis during the COVID pandemic.
In this heartfelt episode, Ruth discusses the power of faith and community in overcoming adversity. Hear her recount the initial feelings of isolation and the profound journey of resilience, learning, and advocacy that has since unfolded. Through embracing her role as an autism strategist, Ruth not only transformed her own understanding but now helps others navigate their unique journeys with compassion and insight.
Join Karla and Ruth as they explore the importance of sincere support systems, faith-driven strategies, and shared experiences in shaping a future where every story finds its place in the spectrum.

In this insightful episode of "Voices Beyond the Spectrum," host Karla Chinen sits down with Angela Taber, a devoted mother and family support specialist. Angela courageously opens up about her journey following her daughter's autism diagnosis, sharing both challenges and triumphs along the way. From early signs to navigating family dynamics, and the impact of self-care on mental health, Angela provides invaluable advice for parents in similar situations. Listen in as they discuss the importance of community, parenting strategies, and balancing self-care amidst caring for neurodivergent children.

Join us on this heartfelt episode of "Voices Beyond the Spectrum," where host Karla Chinen converses with special guest KJ Johnson. KJ shares his inspiring journey as a father navigating inclusion and advocacy for his son who is soon turning 16 and has Down syndrome. Discover the challenges they faced in school settings and learn about the importance of community involvement for neurodivergent children.
Gain insights into how KJ and his family strive to create inclusive environments both at school and in everyday life, emphasizing the power of empathy, persistence, and the willingness to advocate fiercely for their loved ones. This episode offers important lessons for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of raising neurodivergent children. Tune in for a compelling story of resilience, love, and transformation.

In this episode of Voices Beyond the Spectrum, host Karla Chinen dives into a candid conversation with Stephanie Inclan, a passionate and resilient mother of a 15-year-old autistic daughter, Lyla. Stephanie shares her heartfelt journey from the challenges of an unexpected diagnosis to the hard-won victories and everyday struggles of raising a teenager on the autism spectrum.
Together, they discuss the importance of family support, the cultural nuances that impact understanding and acceptance, and the critical role of advocacy in a child's life. Stephanie opens up about the difficulties and joys of navigating teenage milestones, from managing meltdowns in public places to finding solace in a supportive community that celebrates their children's uniqueness.
This episode provides an honest look into the personal experiences of a mother-daughter duo as they embrace the transition into the teenage years, offering insights and wisdom to other parents on a similar journey.

In this episode of Voices Beyond the Spectrum, host Karla Chinen leads a meaningful conversation with TeiYana Muse, a dedicated mother of a child with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. The discussion reveals the emotional journey from diagnosis to thriving and the challenges faced when advocating for her child's education.
TeiYana shares her experience of navigating the special education system, including the importance of advocating in IEP meetings, finding the right classroom environment, and ensuring proper support through well-trained one-on-ones. She emphasizes the significance of parents knowing their voices matter, working with the school team collaboratively, and pushing for the best outcomes for their children.

Welcome to Voices Beyond the Spectrum, hosted by Karla Chinen. In this episode, we dive into a heartfelt conversation with Maria Torres, a fellow autism mom, who shares her journey from an initial autism diagnosis to building a strong support system. Maria discusses the emotional challenges, the power of advocacy, and the importance of community in raising a neurodivergent child. She provides invaluable tips on how to create a positive environment for both the child and the family, emphasizing consistency, education, and empowerment. Join us as we explore the importance of embracing the autism journey with resilience and hope.

Join host Karla Chinen in this heartfelt episode of Voices Beyond the Spectrum as she welcomes special guest Cherlene Alfaro. Together, they delve into the challenges and triumphs experienced by parents of neurodivergent children. Cherlene shares invaluable insights and practical tips on how to navigate vacations with autistic kids, underscoring the importance of embracing both the joyous and difficult moments. Discover how Cherlene's approach to desensitizing her child to certain environments and pushing through challenges has resulted in memorable family vacations. With stories that resonate deeply with the autism community, this episode is a testament to the strength and resilience of families who continuously strive to make the world more inclusive for their children. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or supporter, this conversation offers essential guidance and motivation for embarking on your next family adventure.
Helpful resources to support your journey:
1. TSA Cares Program
tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares
A free service that helps families with disabilities navigate airport security more smoothly.
2. TSA Cares Request Form
tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares
Request personalized airport screening support at least 72 hours before your flight.
3. Autism Speaks Travel Tips
autismspeaks.org/blog/10-autism-travel-tips
Simple, practical advice to help you prepare your child before, during, and after your trip.
4. Autism-Certified Destinations
autismtravel.com
Explore family-friendly travel spots that are trained to support autism needs.
5. Wings for All® by The Arc
thearc.org/our-initiatives/travel/
A program where families can rehearse airport routines—no plane ticket needed!
6. Hopebridge Travel Guide
hopebridge.com/travel-tips
Great tips for picking destinations, managing meltdowns, and making the trip smoother for everyone.
Don’t miss this episode—it’s full of love, laughs, and real-life lessons.
Catch us on Apple Podcasts, Podbean, and YouTube by searching Voices Beyond the Spectrum.
Brought to you by Empathy for Autism California Inc.