Getting UP With Brian P. Swift On The Spectrum With Sonia Krishna Chand podcast

51:50

Send us a text Andrea Andree takes us on a transformative journey from being a corporate Engineer to becoming a leadership and embodiment coach for high-achieving women who want to get out of their heads and into their bodies. • Former project manager with two engineering degrees who felt unfulfilled despite checking all the boxes of success • High achievement often stems from childhood wounds and patterns of seeking validation or attention • Achievement becomes an identity and unconscious driver when it's how we learned to receive love • 90% of our behaviors are driven by unconscious patterns that manifest as physical sensations in our bodies • Learning to identify and sit with bodily sensations rather than automatically reacting to them breaks unhealthy patterns • Generational and even past life trauma can create fears and behaviors that don't make logical sense in our current lives • Transforming achievement means moving from pain-driven to aligned, intentional success • Working with the body through embodiment practices helps access and clear unconscious programming • Holding a positive perspective is possible even while processing difficult emotions If you are interested in working with Andrea or wanting to even have a consultation with Andrea, she could be found on LinkedIn Andrea Andree and through her website https://andreaandree.com/ Remember to rate, review and subscribe to this podcast. My book "Dropped in a Maze" is available at all major book retailers online. If you write a review on Amazon, I'll read it out loud on future episodes.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Breaking Autism Stereotypes with Sam Mitchell 26:01

26 days ago26:01

26:01

Send us a text Sam Mitchell shares his journey of being diagnosed with autism at age four and transforming his experiences into a platform for advocacy through podcasting and motivational speaking. Sam turned his pain into purpose by giving back and helping others. • Diagnosed with classic autism symptoms including repetitive behaviors, restricted interests, and sensory sensitivities • Found understanding at age six through a book that explained his autism, helping him make sense of social exclusion • Struggled with peer relationships throughout school, experiencing exclusion rather than direct bullying • Made breakthrough at sixteen when he stopped people-pleasing and found acceptance among fellow "outcasts" • Turned his special interest in professional wrestling into podcast opportunities, interviewing wrestling stars • Created "Autism Rocks and Rolls" podcast to amplify autistic voices and experiences • Developed into a motivational speaker speaking on big stages. You can connect with Sam through his website at AutismRocksAndRolls.com where there's a contact information page.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Pigs Are For Eating, Not For Dating: Lessons on Self-Worth and Acceptance 39:14

6 weeks ago39:14

39:14

Send us a text "Pigs are for eating, not for dating." This powerful metaphor emerged from my journey through unhelpful therapy, where I was repeatedly told to lose weight because "thin girls get away with more." During this special Autism Acceptance Month episode, I'm sharing raw, personal chapters from my book "Dropped in a Maze" to illuminate the unique challenges faced by those of us on the spectrum. My story takes you through therapy sessions with Dr. Grey, who despite his expertise in autism, focused more on changing my appearance than addressing my emotional needs. The comments he would make would vacillate between supportive to critical throughout the therapeutic relationship. Instead of making me feel better, it made me feel much smaller and much worse. This only allowed for insecurities to fester until I finally stood in my power and stood up for myself using the tools I had to learn on my own. I learned to validate myself during the 2L (second semester of law school) when my depression hit an all time high after feeling a huge let down. I allowed myself to put up with toxic friendships due to my lack of self-esteem and vulnerabilities built over the years. I didn't know who I was and accepted anything that came my way. I eventually learned skills that were off putting to others such as how to dine better with proper use of utensils, I learned how to walk better, and I learned about ways to present my best self. Even though it was embarrassing to learn lessons later in life that people learn much earlier, it was worth everything. I was different, I am different, but I am NOT less. At the end of the day, the main person who could ever be your advocate and best support is YOU!…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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EndoDNA....Using Genetic Testing to Guide your Health 50:10

7 weeks ago50:10

50:10

Send us a text What if your DNA could guide you on how to better handle your health? What if genetic testing could guide you on how certain medications would work? Len May, founder and CEO of EndoDNA, does just that: helps people navigate their health through genetic testing. The road to lead Len May to where he is today has been anything but easy. Len May was kicked out of his home when he was in his later teens for recreational use of cannabis. Len's parents strongly frowned upon his use of cannabis.Len discusses being prescribed medication for ADHD, but he reported the feelings of numbness while taking the medication, even though he was able to focus. Apart from noticing the difference in how different chemical substances interacted with how he was able to feel, Len May also paid keen attention to how his mother and grandmother would have bottles of pills and would consult with doctors about how different medications would interact with other things. Len resorted to couch surfing before finding a more stable place. He went to Temple University with a major in Physical Therapy, but he was an entrepreneur at heart. However, all of his education and personal experiences eventually all tied into Len May's interest into what he does today. Len May's entrepreneurial spirit led him to eventually start his business after first working with the start up of an alternative pharmaceutical company. What he observed while working at the alternative pharmaceutical company led Len May to start his own company in 2017: EndoDNA. The spirit of EndoDNA is to help patients understand their unique health challenges and provides targeted solutions. They are patented with the use of DNA testing to see how it affects the endocannabinoid system: the part responsible for regulating bodily functions. The study of the interplay with how a person's unique DNA affects the endocannabinoid system tells a whole story in and of itself. Ready to discover what your DNA reveals about your health? Visit endodna.com to learn more about genetic testing options or connect with Len May through his podcast "Everything is Personal" and his book "Making Cannabis Personal." Your path to optimal wellness might be hidden in your genetic code—isn't it time you unlocked its secrets?…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Beyond the Diagnosis: Financial Planning for Special Needs Families 24:49

9 weeks ago24:49

24:49

Send us a text Michael Pereira, an insurance specialist and father of a son with autism, shares critical financial planning strategies for families with special needs children. He offers insight into comprehensive insurance planning that protects dependents with special needs if something happens to their caregivers. • Michael's strong passion is helping special needs families after his son's autism diagnosis • Three key areas of focus: income protection, funding special needs trusts, and long-term care planning • Financial planning gets more expensive and difficult to qualify for as you age • Special needs trusts protect government benefits while providing for children's futures • Building an "A-team" of professionals is essential: attorney, insurance advisor, accountant, and specialized coaches • Different insurance carriers have different qualification requirements, offering options for varied situations • The Autism Voyage blog provides resources for parents researching special needs topics For more information or to connect with Michael, visit www.theautismvoyage.com where you can read blog posts, subscribe to the newsletter, or book a call with Michael or his team.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Hallmark, Healing, and Heartache: The Real Story Behind the Movie 1:03:35

10 weeks ago1:03:35

1:03:35

Send us a text What happens when a devastating diagnosis becomes a pivotal turning point in someone's life? In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Heather Krueger, who transformed adversity into her calling. Diagnosed with stage four liver disease just before her 25th birthday, Heather's strong faith and determination led her down a path where she was able to receive a living donation of a liver. However, Heather's story didn't end there. Her living donation ended up turning into a love story; a story that was picked up by Hallmark. Heather Krueger's story was behind the movie "Once Upon a Christmas Miracle." However, unlike the love and glamour shown on screen, behind the scenes was a complete paradox. Heather's love story was on the rails at the time of the filming that ended in a subsequent divorce. Heather takes us, not only on an emotionally touching path, but also a path that will leave everyone feeling inspired, hope, encouraged, ambitious, and determined. Heather Krueger shows us that when life tries to knock you down, it is so important to get up on your feet and keep on fighting the good fight. After all, it is consistency and persistence that wins at the end. Don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss future inspiring conversations!…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Stories of Hope: Changing Lives One Book at a Time 54:48

12 weeks ago54:48

54:48

Send us a text What happens when the magic of books become a lifeline for children in need? We welcome the extraordinary Seena Jacob, founder and CEO of Bookwallah, a nonprofit that is dedicated to setting up libraries for underprivileged children who survived traumatic events but didn't have kind of resources available for support. Seena Jacob knows well about how the power of reading stories has the ability to impact someone's life. Seena herself turned to book reading as a young child as a way to cope with her own traumas. Stories like Cinderella, Chronicles of Narnia, and Beauty and the Beast particularly stood out or Seena, as they provided her with hope for a better day ahead. As a way to pay it forward, Seena decided to pour her passion of reading and enjoying libraries and providing it for children in need who are healing from trauma. Through her passion and dedication, Seena has opened many libraries for the underprivileged children throughout parts of India. Seena has the drive to expand her libraries to other parts of the world. She shares a compelling story of the nature of their work through sharing a transformative story of one of the students who utilized the library that Bookwallah provided.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Embracing Your Unique Path with Molly Booker 1:01:08

13 weeks ago1:01:08

1:01:08

Send us a text Trigger Warning: Past Suicidal Ideations Discussed After experiencing the crushing weight of societal expectations, Molly Booker found her path to self-acceptance through embracing her individuality and passions. On this episode of "On the Spectrum with Sonia," Molly, the author of "Magic in the Mess," takes us on her inspiring journey of breaking free from the chains of conformity Her story highlights the difficulties that present when one feels that they don't fit in like everybody else, and the difficulties with learning to embrace one's own uniqueness. Throughout the episode, Molly and I reflect on our personal battles with "masking" and the intense pressure to fit into societal molds. Both of us recount the emotional toll of feeling like outsiders during our formative years, which led to struggles with self-identity and mental health. As we share our experiences, we shed light on the potentially devastating impact of a lack of self-awareness and the importance of redefining success to align with one's true passions and desires. Molly's narrative is a powerful testament to the liberation found in pursuing what genuinely brings joy, whether it's writing, public speaking, or creative hobbies like playing guitar and drawing. She passionately invites listeners to reject societal boxes and embrace their unique brilliance, transforming internal suffering into love and acceptance. Join us for this empowering conversation, and connect with Molly at mollybooker.com to continue exploring the beauty of individuality and self-discovery.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Getting UP with Brian P. Swift 1:02:17

15 weeks ago1:02:17

1:02:17

Send us a text Just imagine you are living your life and going about your day to only have the course of your whole life change in a flash. This is what happened to Brian P. Swift back on December 26, 1979. Brian was just a gregarious 17 year old off school on winter break. He just finished celebrating Christmas with his family, and he was looking forward to spending the rest of the winter break relaxing and having some fun. He called his buddies to go play some football, and there was a group of guys who got together in a nearby field. This was where Brain received a tackle that changed the complete trajectory of his life....it was a tackle where he had issues getting up from the tackle. Brian couldn't move, nor could he feel. Brian suffered from c6 quadriplegia. As much as Brian was down, he refused to be out. Brian had surgery and went to the Chicago Rehabilitation Center where statistics were grim about the quality of life for those with quadriplegia. It would be easy for anyone to get depressed and feel discouraged seeing the grim outlook that was given for people with quadriplegia. However, Brian used those statistics to motivate him further to achieve a quality of life he could be proud of. Brian went from being a student who didn't consider himself a studious person to going on to law school. Brian left the legal field and went into sales where he won an award his first year for bringing in the most sales. Brian eventually became an author, business executive coach, speaker, and radio host of WJOL. Brian refused to let quadriplegia define him, but rather, he was going to define what quadriplegia was. He defied statistics, and he showed people that life doesn't have to be so grim if you have the mindset to not let it.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Exploring the Intersection of Policing and Mental Health with Tom Smith 45:10

16 weeks ago45:10

45:10

Send us a text Tom Smith, a retired NYPD officer and current host of the Gold Shield Show, joins me on "On the Spectrum with Sonia" to discuss the often unseen intersection of law enforcement and mental health. Inspired to follow his father's footsteps and seeing the strong camaraderie and "family" formed within the community, Tom aimed to recreate that for his own life and found just that. The conversation takes a deeper look at the intricacies of mental health in policing, emphasizing the vital role of mental health support within the justice system. We discuss different aspects of mental health within law enforcement, those in the criminal justice system, and education that both law enforcement officers and mental health professionals need to learn of each other. Towards the end, we tackle the societal pressures on police officers, magnified by public events like the George Floyd incident. Tom and I discuss how tools like body cameras can enhance accountability and serve as training resources. We discuss the necessity of communication skills and effective strategies to manage mental health crises, advocating for ongoing collaboration between law enforcement and mental health professionals. To cap off the episode, I'm excited to announce the upcoming launch of my book, "Dropped in a Maze," at Creative Con in Chicago, and I invite you to join our journey by subscribing to the podcast across major platforms.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Visionaries and the Art of Authentic Self-Expression 49:15

18 weeks ago49:15

49:15

Send us a text Get ready to unlock the secrets of visionary thinking with Justin Breen, a best-selling author and innovator with a unique talent for connecting patterns across various fields. Join us as we journey through Justin's transition from journalism to entrepreneurship, revealing how neurodivergence, such as ADHD and autism, can often lead to groundbreaking ideas. Learn more about how Justin used his talents and gifts to not only help others realize their potential, but he also was able to tap into his own talents and creativity. One of the most remarkable talents Justin has is to look at patterns and piece together patterns in ways that will help people achieve their optimal potential. Justin's unique perspectives allowed him to write a best selling novel Epic Life that was ranked top across multiple platforms including, Amazon and USA Today. Justin's talent for music has reached acclaimed top level musicians that we all know and love (well, at least most of us). Recently, Justin became the co-founder of Corvia AI where music and technology meet. Justin is also the CEO and Co-Founder of Epic F.I.T. where the main mission to help visionaries reach their potential and give back to the world in ways the world could use their talents and gifts.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Deborah's Courageous Journey: From Emotional Abuse to Empowerment and Advocacy 53:47

22 weeks ago53:47

53:47

Send us a text What if awakening in a psychiatric ward could be the catalyst for a transformative life change? Join us as Deborah Griffiths courageously shares her journey from a toxic marriage to becoming an empowered single mother and advocate. Her story is a testament to the strength and resilience required to break free from an abusive environment and rebuild a life filled with purpose and hope. Alongside Deborah, we explore the deeply complex layers of emotional abuse, highlighting the critical importance of recognizing the subtler signs of control and manipulation. As we navigate the intricacies of Deborah's past relationship, stunning reflections emerge on the challenges of overcoming parental alienation and the resilience needed to reconnect with estranged children. Deborah’s narrative, intertwined with powerful personal stories, reveals the painful yet necessary steps taken to address substance abuse within the family. Through her journey, we celebrate transformation—her son’s triumph over addiction and the newfound strength and independence of her youngest child. This exploration underscores the necessity of setting boundaries and the power of unwavering support in overcoming familial adversities. This season finale is not just a closing chapter but a celebration of survival and growth. Reflecting on 28 impactful episodes, including the tragic yet inspiring story of Nicole, we honor the countless survivors of domestic violence who have bravely shared their stories. With heartfelt gratitude, we appreciate our guests and listeners, promising more engaging content and enlightening stories in the coming year. As we prepare to return, we remind survivors that hope and support are always within reach, encouraging you to continue this journey of empowerment with us.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Brittney's Journey to Becoming a Successful Creative Entrepreneur Alongside Navigating Trauma and a Bipolar Diagnosis 52:36

23 weeks ago52:36

52:36

Send us a text Join us as we sit down with Brittney Benavides-Smith, a devoted music teacher from Georgetown, Texas. Britteny bravely shares her inspirational story of navigating the complexities of living with bipolar disorder, being faced with traumatic loss at a young age of both of her parents, overcoming a toxic first marriage, and tackling binge eating. Brittney today is a thriving individual who uses her passion for music to become a successful creative entrepreneur and talented player for piano, guitar, and ukulele. Brittney also uses music as her way to release emotions continue with her own personal growth and healing. After all, music is medicine for the soul!!…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Navigating Holiday Dynamics with Autism 43:09

25 weeks ago43:09

43:09

Send us a text Navigating the holidays can be challenging, especially for those on the autism spectrum. Picture yourself at a festive family gathering, overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle, and struggling to interpret social cues. Through personal stories and therapist-tested strategies, I explore how to manage the emotional intricacies of holiday events—from overwhelming public displays of affection to the pitfalls of love bombing. My goal is to provide you with actionable advice to feel more connected and supported during this season of togetherness. Romantic and social relationships pose their own set of challenges for individuals on the autism spectrum. Imagine watching others dive into the thrill of relationships while you remain on the sidelines. This episode breaks down the social hierarchy that often leaves autistic individuals marginalized, exploring how societal expectations can make one feel excluded. We’ll discuss how to recognize and avoid exploitative behaviors like love bombing, and why support from friends and family is crucial for navigating these tricky waters. Embracing one’s individuality and building self-confidence is crucial for anyone feeling the weight of societal norms. Reject the labels that try to box you in as 'different' or 'weird,' and instead, celebrate your unique perspective. We'll explore empowering practices like positive self-talk and the transformative power of wearing confidence-boosting colors. As we express gratitude to our community and supporters, I encourage everyone to recognize the invaluable contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum. Let's advocate for a society that appreciates every puzzle piece, fostering compassion and inclusion for all.…

On the Spectrum with Sonia Krishna Chand

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Faith and Bipolar Disorder: Sarah's Story 53:41

27 weeks ago53:41