Voices Beyond the Spectrum
Voices Beyond the Spectrum: Resource Hub Edition is a podcast dedicated to educating, empowering, and connecting families navigating disability, neurodiversity, and caregiving.
Hosted by Karla Chinen, each episode brings together parents, caregivers, neurodivergent individuals, siblings, advocates, and professionals for meaningful conversations that blend lived experience with practical resources.
Through personal stories, honest discussions, and expert insights, we explore the realities of raising and supporting individuals with disabilities while highlighting tools, services, programs, and strategies that can make a meaningful difference in everyday life.
The Resource Hub Edition expands beyond storytelling by creating a space where specialists, educators, therapists, service providers, attorneys, researchers, and community leaders can share valuable information directly with families. Our goal is to bridge the gap between lived experience and professional expertise, helping listeners better understand the resources available to them and how to access meaningful support.
Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, a caregiver looking for community, a neurodivergent individual sharing your voice, a sibling navigating your unique role, or a professional passionate about making a difference, there is a place for you here.
Because when we learn together, connect together, and lead with empathy, we build stronger communities for everyone.
Come as you are. Your voice matters here.
Listen on:
Episodes
Apr 11, 2025
Apr 11, 2025
43 min
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.
Apr 1, 2025
Apr 1, 2025
52 min
Welcome to the first episode of "Voices Beyond the Spectrum," a podcast dedicated to parents and caregivers of autistic and neurodivergent children and teens. Join the host Karla and her husband Anthony as they share their personal journey, discussing the ups and downs of raising two autistic children, and how it has affected their marriage, family dynamics, and personal growth. In this candid conversation, they explore the initial challenges of diagnosis, the evolving understanding of autism, and the importance of acceptance and empathy in their parenting journey.
Throughout the discussion, Anthony opens up about his initial denial and eventual acceptance of their children's diagnoses, highlighting the emotional journey of connecting with their autistic child, Adrian. They also touch upon their daughter's unique experiences and how they have adapted to meet her needs. This episode provides insight into the struggles, fears, and victories of raising neurodivergent children while emphasizing the importance of building a supportive community for families navigating similar paths.