THE
PARENT PODCAST
Finding Your Why On The Spectrum
with Sam Mitchell
Key Points
From This Episode:
01:57 - Owning Identity and Redefining “Normal”
10:17 - The Power of Structure, Support, and Safe Spaces
21:18 - Purpose, Advocacy, and Advice for Parents
Resources from
this episode:
Show Notes
In this episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno sit down with Sam Mitchell, host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, to explore what it truly means to find purpose on the autism spectrum. Sam shares how structure, community, and self-acceptance helped him build confidence, independence, and a successful podcast that challenges stereotypes. This conversation offers insight, hope, and practical wisdom for parents raising neurodivergent kids—and for anyone learning to embrace differences as strengths.
Owning Identity and Redefining “Normal”
Hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno welcome Sam Mitchell, creator of the Autism Rocks and Rolls podcast, who shares his journey growing up on the autism spectrum. Sam speaks openly about early diagnoses, school challenges, and the impact of being misunderstood, bullied, and stereotyped. He reframes autism not as something broken, but as a different way of experiencing and navigating the world—one with its own strengths, talents, and gifts.
The Power of Structure, Support, and Safe Spaces
Sam explains how structure became a lifeline for him, especially during his transition to college, where unpredictability felt overwhelming. He shares practical tools like digital calendars, routines, and supportive campus programs that helped him build independence while feeling safe. The conversation highlights the importance of community, trusted mentors, and environments that meet neurodivergent individuals where they are, rather than forcing them to conform.
Purpose, Advocacy, and Advice for Parents
The episode closes with Sam’s powerful mission to show—through action—that people on the spectrum are capable, talented, and worthy of opportunity. He offers honest advice to parents: ignore fear-based narratives, focus on what works, and prioritize employment, purpose, and emotional understanding over “fixing” differences. Marci and Debbie reflect on how listening, asking what support is needed, and embracing neurodiversity can help kids thrive and find their “why.”
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
THE
PARENT PODCAST
Finding Your Why On The Spectrum
with Sam Mitchell
Show Notes
In this episode of The Warrior Parent Podcast, Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno sit down with Sam Mitchell, host of Autism Rocks and Rolls, to explore what it truly means to find purpose on the autism spectrum. Sam shares how structure, community, and self-acceptance helped him build confidence, independence, and a successful podcast that challenges stereotypes. This conversation offers insight, hope, and practical wisdom for parents raising neurodivergent kids—and for anyone learning to embrace differences as strengths.
Key Points
From This Episode:
01:57 - Owning Identity and Redefining “Normal”
10:17 - The Power of Structure, Support, and Safe Spaces
21:18 - Purpose, Advocacy, and Advice for Parents
Owning Identity and Redefining “Normal”
Hosts Marci Mitchell and Debbie DiManno welcome Sam Mitchell, creator of the Autism Rocks and Rolls podcast, who shares his journey growing up on the autism spectrum. Sam speaks openly about early diagnoses, school challenges, and the impact of being misunderstood, bullied, and stereotyped. He reframes autism not as something broken, but as a different way of experiencing and navigating the world—one with its own strengths, talents, and gifts.
The Power of Structure, Support, and Safe Spaces
Sam explains how structure became a lifeline for him, especially during his transition to college, where unpredictability felt overwhelming. He shares practical tools like digital calendars, routines, and supportive campus programs that helped him build independence while feeling safe. The conversation highlights the importance of community, trusted mentors, and environments that meet neurodivergent individuals where they are, rather than forcing them to conform.
Purpose, Advocacy, and Advice for Parents
The episode closes with Sam’s powerful mission to show—through action—that people on the spectrum are capable, talented, and worthy of opportunity. He offers honest advice to parents: ignore fear-based narratives, focus on what works, and prioritize employment, purpose, and emotional understanding over “fixing” differences. Marci and Debbie reflect on how listening, asking what support is needed, and embracing neurodiversity can help kids thrive and find their “why.”
Thank you so much for listening to this episode! This podcast is dedicated to supporting families through the ups and downs of parenting and mental wellness. We know how tough it can be to raise kids in today’s world, but you don’t have to do it alone. Join us and let’s lift each other up.
With love,
Marci & Debbie
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 120,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699
We're on a mission to educate, inspire and transform lives, ages 4-104 using basic scientifically proven methods and tools to decrease stress, anxiety and to increase resiliency and overall well-being.
2882 Prospect Park Dr. Suite 120,
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
(916) 340-5252
© 2019 Cour Experience Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Non-Profit 501c3 EIN: 84-3383699