Best Leta and Amanda Podcasts (2025)

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Sarah Rise: Navigating Motherhood and Autism with Grace 57:52

5d ago57:52

57:52

Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome back Jennifer Celeste Briggs. Jennifer joins us to discuss the transformative Son Rise Program, and how it helped her with her daughter, Sarah. This enriching conversation goes in-depth into how the Son Rise Program helped Jennifer nurture Sarah's unique needs, celeb…

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Sensory Issues and Dance Costumes: My Top Five Most Hated Dance Costumes 48:21

8d ago48:21

48:21

Send us a text In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, Leta and Amanda look at Leta’s Five Least Favorite Costumes, and the roll Leta’s complex sensory issues had on the list. They discuss the lack of understanding and knowledge most dance teachers have about sensory issues, and how those can affect a dancer’s ability to perform onstage. …

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Stimming, Meltdowns, and Acceptance: A Conversation with Kara Nash, RN 1:02:30

12d ago1:02:30

1:02:30

Send us a text Join Amanda and Leta sit down with Kara Nash, a registered nurse who is also autistic, to discuss various aspects of autism from a medical perspective. From the importance of stimming and the misunderstanding of autistic meltdowns to the flaws in school systems and special education, the episode covers a wide range of significant top…

1
The Silent Struggle Within: Navigating Imposter Syndrome in Dance 49:46

15d ago49:46

49:46

Send us a text In this episode, Amanda and Leta delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome, and how it often affects dance students. They discuss how dance is often touted as a confidence booster for children, yet many dancers, including Leta, struggle with feelings of not belonging, not being perfect, and wanting to hide in the shadows. Tear…

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From his roots on a Maryland farm to his service in the Marines reflects on how his life experiences shaped his writing—driven by themes of survival, resilience, and realism, G. Michael Hopf. 34:02

16d ago34:02

34:02

G. Michael Hopf is a USA Today bestselling author and Marine Corps veteran whose diverse life experiences—ranging from combat service to work as a bodyguard and commercial diver—fuel his gripping post-apocalyptic and Western fiction. ⁣ Best known for The New World series, Hopf draws on themes of survival, resilience, and human nature, crafting stor…

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Episode 82: Jeaneen Tang - Navigating Speech Delays: Insights from a Speech Pathologist 23:45

18d ago23:45

23:45

In this episode of The Meademusing’s Podcast, we engage in an insightful conversation with Jeaneen Tang a dedicated speech and language pathologist who has been making a difference in the lives of children for over 20 years . Jeaneen is also the mother of a special needs son, now 11 years old. At 13 months, he suffered a tragic fall from a bed, res…

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The Dance of Dyslexia: Education and Advocacy with Jess Arce 59:48

19d ago59:48

59:48

Send us a text Join us as we dive deep into the complexities of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia with special guest, Jess Arce, owner of 3D Learning Experts Tutoring. Jess, who has extensive experience with neurodiversity including her own family, helps us dymystify dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. She explains what these learning differ…

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Everyone Can Dance: Autism, Inclusivity and Dance 38:00

22d ago38:00

38:00

Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, we talk about how anyone can dance. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can dance. We talk a bit about some of those people who were told they couldn’t dance or sing, or play a guitar. Yet they became some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. We also thank Autistic Wings Dance Compa…

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A Cybersecurity expert's journey through the evolution of cybercrime—from the innocent experimentation of the early internet to today’s AI-powered, state-sponsored threats, Joseph Steinberg. 38:34

24d ago38:34

38:34

Joseph Steinberg is a leading cybersecurity expert who has worked in the field since its early days, tracing his journey back to the pre-commercial internet of the 1980s and 90s. With a strong technical foundation and a master’s degree from NYU, he began his career in the mid-1990s, integrating security systems for financial institutions before mov…

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The Importance of Parental Advocacy in Autistic Education 58:46

26d ago58:46

58:46

Send us a text In this conversation, Amanda Trisdale, Rebecca Prejean, and Leta Rundell discuss the challenges and experiences of raising neurodivergent children, particularly in educational settings. They share personal stories about bullying, the importance of understanding and patience from educators, and the impact of the pandemic on therapy an…

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Dancing Through Life with Autism: with insights from April Ratchford 59:48

29d ago59:48

59:48

Send us a text In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, we welcome “Friend of the Podcast” April Ratchford. April brings her knowledge as an occupational therapist, as an autistic person, and as the mother of an autistic child to the table. (He will always be her child, even if he is now an adult.) Together with Leta's personal experiences…

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The Power of Therapy Dogs: Enhancing Education and Reducing Stress 57:44

1M ago57:44

57:44

Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom, Amanda, discuss the impact of therapy dogs in educational settings with Dr. Barbara Vokatis, half of an amazing therapy dog team, and a professor of Education. They explore the differences between therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Dr. Barb s…

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The Spin of Eye Dominance: Understanding Neurodiversity in Dance 48:36

1M ago48:36

48:36

Send us a text In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda discuss the challenges and experiences involving eye dominance in dance, specifically addressing the left eye dominance and its impact on performing pirouettes. They explore the neurodiversity within dance studios, the importance of tailored accommodations, and the mis…

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An extraordinary journey from his humble beginnings in a Canadian oil town to the far reaches of the globe, retracing the paths of legendary explorers and embarking on solo expeditions across challenging ... 37:10

1M ago37:10

37:10

Bert Terhart is an adventurer, sailor, and lifelong explorer who currently resides on a smaller island off Vancouver Island, Canada, a place with a surprisingly large population of 750,000. Originally from the prairies of Canada near Fargo, North Dakota, Bert grew up in a small, hardworking oil town, shaped by cold landscapes and a strong sense of …

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Episode 81 : Sarah Doucett - Surviving Domestic Violence: Unmasking Financial Abuse and Finding Strength Again 30:20

1M ago30:20

30:20

Intimate partner violence and domestic abuse have become significant public health concerns . Women are more likely to experience domestic violence during their lifetime than men Over 61 million women have been abused by partners, while the figure for men is approximately 53 million. According to Wisniewska, M. J. (2024, October 7), "Domestic Viole…

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Demystifying Autism: A Conversation with Autism Advocate Sam Mitchell 54:33

1M ago54:33

54:33

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom welcome Sam, an autism advocate a podcaster, and the brain behind 'Autism Rocks and Rolls.' They discuss common misconceptions about autism, the struggles and strengths of autistic individuals, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Sam shares…

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The Autistic Dancer: Understanding, Acceptance, and Awareness 42:20

1M ago42:20

42:20

Send us a text In this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles', Leta and Amanda delve into their personal experiences with autism, focusing on how it defines their identity. They discuss how well-meaning people will often ignore that someone is autistic, using the phrase “I don’t see autism.” They discuss the misconceptions surrounding acceptance (especiall…

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Military Life Uncovered: Neurodiversity and Overcoming Challenges with Dr Kristen 1:07:17

2M ago1:07:17

1:07:17

Send us a text Dr Kristen Williamson returns to the podcast for a discussion on advocating for neurodiversity within the military, focusing on the challenges and strategies for supporting neurodivergent children and their families. We discuss the stress levels experienced by parents of neurodivergent children, managing PCS moves, and the importance…

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Dance, Dogs, and Derpy on the Ranch 32:24

2M ago32:24

32:24

Send us a text This week features Leta discussing her latest video and photo shoot, and how autism does or does not affect her ability to handle shoots. Leta also discusses her experiences dancing and interacting with animals. The conversation covers various subjects including filming for her tap dance career, how she manages sensory issues, and wh…

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Unconventional path took him from coding at age 10 to founding startups, embracing digital nomadism, and pioneering AI-driven business solutions, Matt Leta. 36:37

2M ago36:37

36:37

Matt Leta is a Polish-born entrepreneur, digital artist, and AI innovator. A gifted but rebellious student, he discovered his passion for coding at age 10 and later explored architecture and music. At 19, he founded Dropper, a mobile-first platform for artists, which grew to 250,000 users before securing seven-figure funding and moving to Californi…

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Step into My Shoes: Rebecca's Journey from Nonverbal to Special Education Advocate 47:15

2M ago47:15

47:15

Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, guest Rebecca Engle, a special education teacher, ten-time author, and six-time poet, shares her experiences growing up nonverbal, her journey to becoming verbal, and her work in special education. Rebecca uses her own experiences using IEPs and 504s as a student to explain the importance of both…

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Generation Alpha Unplugged: Dance, Autism, and Everything In Between 1:01:34

2M ago1:01:34

1:01:34

Send us a text This conversation explores the differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, particularly in the context of their experiences during the COVID pandemic. It highlights the impact of online learning and therapy on childhood development, communication styles, and the cultural references that shape their identities. The discussion also touche…

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A retired veteran, pastor, mentor, author, podcaster, and selfless servant earned the nickname "Father Bob" for his dedicated and altruistic service, Robert Jordan. 49:49

2M ago49:49

49:49

Robert Jordan, raised in a small village in Upstate New York, grew up in a hardworking, blue-collar family with strong community ties. After high school, he farmed cattle for nine years before earning a degree from SUNY Albany. Inspired by the 1993 World Trade Center attack, he joined the Navy at age 34, intending to serve briefly before law school…

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Episode 80: From Silence to Expression : Amanda & Leta Trisdale dance Therapy for Autism Story 26:16

2M ago26:16

26:16

This mother's day with Autism awareness week also approaching we dive again into the world of autism with Amanda and Leta , a mother-daughter autistic duo. They share their unique experiences navigating life with Autism . Leta was diagnosed at just three years old, facing challenges with communication and understanding, which led to frequent meltdo…

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Kerie Logan on Parenting and the Power of Authenticity 47:42

2M ago47:42

47:42

Send us a text In this episode, host Leta and her mom welcome guest Kerie Logan, a therapist, empowerment specialist, podcast host, and parent of an autistic child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). They delve into topics such as autism, masking, the importance of parental understanding, and how technical difficulties impacted their recordin…

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Fundraising with Heart: Creating A Dance Community at Autistic Wings Dance Company 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

Send us a text In this episode, Leta and her mom discuss the multifaceted nature of their podcast, blending tap dancing and autism awareness. They talk about their nonprofit, Autistic Wings Dance Company, its founding, and the need for fundraising to expand their dance studio to better serve autistic children. They share a heartwarming profile abou…

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Her powerful journey from an abusive childhood in New York to building a thriving beauty business and finding inner peace, Amanda Pichardo. 25:54

2M ago25:54

25:54

Amanda Pichardo is a beauty entrepreneur and inspiring storyteller who has transformed adversity into success. Overcoming a childhood marked by severe abuse in New York, she was removed from her home at age eight and later emancipated at 18, forcing her to navigate adulthood on her own. ⁣ Determined to build a better future, she worked various jobs…

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Navigating Neurodivergence with Michael Cole 54:42

2M ago54:42

54:42

Send us a text In this episode of the 'Tap Styles' podcast, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Michael. They discuss Michael's autism diagnosis journey, workplace challenges, and the importance of accommodations for autistic individuals. They emphasize the need for understanding and supportive environments, particularly in work and school settings. The …

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Autism, Dance, and Determination: Year One at Autistic Wings 36:39

2M ago36:39

36:39

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta celebrate the first anniversary of the Autistic Wings Dance Company, reflecting on their journey, challenges faced in traditional dance studios, and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for autistic dancers. They discuss the founding of Autistic Wings Dance Company, the ne…

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A real estate investor, speaker, and author specializing in private money lending who was once the largest mobile home retailer in the U.S, Jay Conner. 37:14

2M ago37:14

37:14

Jay Conner is a real estate investor, speaker, and author specializing in private money lending. Raised in Eastern North Carolina, he grew up in the mobile home industry, working alongside his father, who was once the largest mobile home retailer in the U.S. After the market collapsed in the early 2000s, Jay pivoted to flipping single-family homes,…

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Episode 79: Carin Luna-Ostaseski Menopause ,Whiskey and the Journey of a Trailblazing Entrepreneur 25:39

2M ago25:39

25:39

On this International Women's day ,we share an enlightening episode as we explore the world of women in business and the often-overlooked topic of menopause. Join us as we welcome Carin Luna Ostaseski, a trailblazer in the whiskey industry, who shares her inspiring journey from being a graphic designer to becoming the first American woman to create…

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Each Step Speaks: Communication, Autism, and the Dance of Life 1:15:15

3M ago1:15:15

1:15:15

Send us a text In this episode of Leta's Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda host guest Mario Wissa, who shares his journey from Cairo, Egypt to the United States, his diverse professional background, and his passion for communication. The discussion delves into the challenges and nuances of communication, and how it is different for each and every…

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Beyond the Mask: Teaching Dance Authentically 49:17

3M ago49:17

49:17

Send us a text In this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta discuss the intersection of autism and the dance studio. They focus on the importance of true authenticity and the detrimental effects of masking. They explore the challenges faced by autistic dancers in traditional dance environments, the role of teachers in fostering inclusivity, model…

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His unconventional path from working in the White House to launching a successful PR firm and entrepreneurial ventures, David Anderson. 26:45

3M ago26:45

26:45

David Anderson is a seasoned entrepreneur and leadership strategist with a dynamic career spanning public relations, behavioral marketing, and executive coaching. Growing up in New Jersey, he developed an early passion for business while working at a country club surrounded by successful entrepreneurs. ⁣ After earning his degree from Arizona State …

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Diverse Beats: Life’s Dance Through Neurodiversity 57:55

3M ago57:55

57:55

Send us a text In this heartwarming and informative episode of 'Leta Tap Styles', hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Dr. Kristen Williamson, a licensed professional counselor with a PhD in Behavioral Health Management. Join them as they discuss living with autism and ADHD and how it affects their every day life. Come along as they share personal stories…

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Episode 77: Luka Reedy - Love, Standards, and Self-Discovery: A Conversation on Modern Dating 31:49

3M ago31:49

31:49

In a world where love and relationships can often feel overwhelming, understanding the dynamics of dating is crucial. In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Luka Reedy, an insightful dating coach based in Vancouver, Canada, who specializes in helping individuals navigate the complexities of relationships. Luka's journey…

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The Pallet Cleanser Epsiode: A Little Bit of Fluff 27:59

3M ago27:59

27:59

Send us a text Join Leta and Amanda on this week’s “Tap Tuesday” where they take a break from serious topics and discuss a little bit of fluff and toss in a breakdown of Chloe Arnold's choreography. You'll get a glimpse of their fun interactions, quirky discussions, and spontaneous moments. They also touch upon special events coming up, like the Ho…

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From a childhood fascination with magic to earning a degree in psychology and criminal profiling and hebuilt a career that fuses mentalism with the power of human influence, Keith Kong. 28:47

3M ago28:47

28:47

Keith Kong is a world-class mentalist who blends psychology, influence, and showmanship to create mind-bending experiences. Initially aspiring to be a hostage negotiator, he became fascinated with magic at age 10 and later discovered mentalism through his studies in psychology and criminal profiling. ⁣ After years of performing in Orlando’s enterta…

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Redefining Education and Inclusion with Dr. Bibi Pirayesh 51:17

3M ago51:17

51:17

Send us a text In this episode of Leta Tap Styles podcast, guest Dr. Bibi Pirayesh, an educational therapist and adjunct faculty at Pepperdine University, joins us to discuss neurodiversity as a social justice. Especially when it comes to the needs of neurodiverse students in the world of education. Leta shares her personal experience with dance te…

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How Masking Impacts the Autistic Dance Student 46:34

3M ago46:34

46:34

Send us a text In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles, Leta and Amanda discuss the lifelong impacts of masking on autistic dancers. They discuss how dance studio owners and teachers – while well meaning – often cause harm by not understanding what masking is, how it manifests itself, and the physical and emotional harm masking causes. Even the mo…

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With a background in visual communications and years of marketing and design experience she found her niche in PowerPoint presentation design, Emily Schneider. 25:55

3M ago25:55

25:55

Emily Schneider is a creatively curious branding and presentation designer who helps businesses communicate with clarity and impact. Growing up in the Midwest, she was always fascinated by how things work and how people connect—an interest that led her to study visual communications at the University of Kansas. ⁣ After starting her career in market…

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We Were Going to Talk About Her Thrive Program: Chatting with Michelle Choairy 32:56

3M ago32:56

32:56

Send us a text The plan had been to talk to about her program, Thrive, for parents of kids with complex needs. But, when friend of the program, Michelle Choairy, joins the program, scripted questions go out the window. Join us instead as we kind of talk about Thrive, hit upon Michelle's Facebook support group for parents, Wisdom4Complex Kids, and j…

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Sticks and Stones: Teachers Inability to Understand Leaves Lasting Consequences 39:52

3M ago39:52

39:52

Send us a text This week, thirteen years old co-host, Leta, gets a bit personal as she discusses how her dance teachers words left deep wounds. Coming at the discussion from her invisible hip issues, Leta and Amanda discuss how dance teachers never fully understood how Leta's hip works. They talk about how dance teachers inability to fully comprehe…

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With a deep passion for value creation, tech innovation, and mentoring others, they share insights into their diverse career, from software development to building one of the first mobile app firms in ... 1:02:38

3M ago1:02:38

1:02:38

Lior Weinstein is an entrepreneur and fractional CTO/CRO based in Atlanta, Georgia. Born and raised in Israel in an entrepreneurial family, Lior developed an early passion for business and finance, launching his first company at 14 and trading stocks as a child. After serving in the Israeli special forces and intelligence, he transitioned into affi…

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Son Rise to Sarah Rise: A Conversation with author Jennifer Celeste Briggs 45:38

3M ago45:38

45:38

Send us a text This week, we welcome Jennifer Celeste Briggs, author of the new book, "Watching Sarah Rise." Jenny's takes us along on her journey to find the right therapies and support for her daughter, Sarah. With the help of an entire community of volunteers, Jenny and her family took the Son Rise Program and molded into the perfect therapy for…

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