Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Although autism is becoming more widely recognized, there is still a lack of understanding and awareness surrounding the condition. As a result, many individuals and families affected by autism struggle to find the support and resources they need. Why Not Me The World podcast aims to bridge that gap by ...
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Tony Mantor talks with entertainment industry people in the U.S. and internationally that have made a mark for themselves. Conversations with those behind the scenes people that help them achieve their success along with up and coming entertainers as well. Stories that give a deeper understanding on what it takes to achieve success in the entertainment industry. Whether listening for entertainment or for tips on how others faced their challenges this has something for everyone.
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Send us a text Imagine discovering that the challenges your child faces are, in fact, a reflection of your own. Junaid Hussain, a family medicine physician, shares his deeply personal journey of navigating autism and ADHD within his family, a path that began with his son's diagnosis at the age of eight and led to his own self-discovery. You'll hear…
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Ever wondered how a hit song changes the trajectory of a band's career overnight? Join us for an exclusive conversation with Tony Scalzo of Fastball as he takes us through his musical journey, from his early days learning multiple instruments to the roller-coaster ride of fame with their smash hit "The Way." Tony reveals the band's creative process…
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Send us a text Have you ever felt isolated in your mental health journey, yearning for a community that truly understands? Tune into "Why Not Me? The World Podcast" with your host, Tony Mantor, broadcasting from the vibrant heart of Nashville, Tennessee. This episode is not just a collection of stories; it's a heartfelt movement towards global acce…
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Ever wondered what it was like to work side-by-side with legends like John Lennon and Paul McCartney? Join us as we sit down with the iconic Billy J Kramer, who shares the riveting story behind his stage name, a suggestion from Lennon himself. Discover the fascinating behind-the-scenes tales of recording songs written by the Beatles exclusively for…
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Send us a text What if music could be your path to healing and inner peace? Dive into an inspiring conversation with East Forest, a pioneer in meditation and transformative music. Discover how his personal battle with anxiety and depression led him to create soul-soothing compositions that have become a beacon of hope for many. His journey from cra…
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Do you ever wonder what it was like to be part of the pioneering girl group, the Shirelles? Join us as Beverly Lee takes us on a nostalgic journey back to 1957, sharing how the group's harmonic beginnings led to the creation of their first hit, "I Met Him on Sunday." Discover the serendipitous moment they were discovered by Florence Greenberg of Ti…
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Kadin McElwain: Conquering Autism Through Family Support, Advocacy, and Digital Storytelling – An Inspiring Journey of Personal Growth and Resilience
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Send us a text What happens when you refuse to let a diagnosis define your future? Join us for a powerful conversation with Caden McElwain as he shares his journey from being diagnosed with autism at two years old to thriving academically and pursuing a degree in public relations. Listen as Caden recounts the unwavering support from his parents, hi…
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Send us a text Join us for a fascinating conversation with Christina Collura, a passionate teacher, entrepreneur, and autism advocate. Discover how Christina's journey began with a simple yet powerful idea—creating a customized name puzzle for her son Luca, who was diagnosed with autism at age three. This innovative tool, featuring indented chalkbo…
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Ever wondered how a left-handed guitar enthusiast transforms into a right-handed rock star? Join us as Mark Bryan, the founding member and guitarist of Hootie and the Blowfish, shares his captivating journey. Mark opens up about how early lessons and a love for ACDC's "TNT" ignited his passion for music, and how he drew inspiration from legends lik…
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Send us a text Unlock the secrets of autism service dog training with our special guest, Ivan Petersel, a certified professional dog trainer with a fascinating backstory. From his beginnings with a psychology degree and work in developmental disabilities to running a successful dog walking business in Manhattan, Ivan's journey is anything but ordin…
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What happens when a teenage musician swaps the Catskill nightclubs for the glitzy sets of Hollywood? Don Most, beloved for his role as Ralph Malph on "Happy Days," shares his enthralling journey from an aspiring singer in New York to a celebrated actor in Los Angeles. This episode of "Almost Live Nashville" captures his transition from music to act…
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Reid Miles: Navigating Late Autism Diagnosis – Overcoming Stigmas, Building Resilience, and Advocating for an Inclusive Future
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Send us a text How does a late autism diagnosis reshape one's life? Discover the profound journey of Reid Miles, an autistic author and podcaster, as he opens up about his late diagnosis in his 20s and its transformative impact. Reid shares his experiences with the social security system, the clinical trial that validated his autism, and the hurdle…
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Have you ever wondered how music and faith can transform a life bound by addiction? On this inspiring episode of Almost Live Nashville, we sit down with Whey Jennings as he opens up about his harrowing battle with drug addiction and his remarkable journey to redemption. Whey shares the pivotal moments that shaped his recovery, including the profoun…
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Andrew Smidt: Crafting Secure Financial Futures for Families with Autism – Navigating Benefits, ABLE Plans, and Special Needs Trusts
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Send us a text Discover the critical financial strategies that can transform the lives of families with autism in our latest episode of "Why Not Me." Join us as we sit down with Andrew Smith, an experienced financial planner who specializes in guiding families with special needs. With a personal connection to the cause, Andrew delves into the compl…
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Discover the secrets behind the legendary career of guitarist Steve Hackett. From the moment a pivotal call from Peter Gabriel changed his life, to the exhilarating highs of performing at iconic venues like Madison Square Garden, Hackett shares the trials and triumphs of his journey with Genesis. Hear firsthand how influential figures like Segovia …
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Michelle Morton: Crafting Communication and Overcoming Sensory Challenges – A Journey of Autism Advocacy and Resilience
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Send us a text What happens when your child's first words start to disappear? That's the heart-wrenching question Michelle Morton faced as her son's communication skills regressed and sensory challenges emerged. In this episode of "Why Not Me? The World," Michelle takes us through her powerful journey, highlighting a pivotal moment at Chuck E. Chee…
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Ever wondered what it takes to transform from a budding artist in New York to a global music sensation? Join us as the iconic Taylor Dayne shares her incredible journey, revealing the heartfelt moments that shaped her career and her determination to stay grounded amidst her monumental success. Taylor takes us back to her early days, reminiscing abo…
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Rachel Mosley and Eunhee Kim: Unveiling the Intersection of Autism and Menopause – Challenges, Resilience, and Empowering Support Strategies
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Send us a text Imagine discovering a new facet of your identity just as you are navigating the already tumultuous waters of menopause. That's the reality for many autistic individuals, and today we’re thrilled to have researchers Rachel Mosley and Eunhee Kim share their eye-opening findings on this deeply personal and under-researched topic. Uni's …
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Joe Gilotti: Thriving Against the Odds – Fostering Inclusivity and Independence in the Autism Community
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Send us a text How does an autistic individual navigate life’s challenges to find joy and purpose in a supportive community? Join us on this episode of "Why Not Me? The World Podcast" as we welcome Joe Gilotti, a remarkable man who has turned his diagnosis of Asperger's into a journey of resilience and triumph. Joe takes us back to his childhood, s…
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Beth Pilchik: Navigating the Dual Path – Advocacy and Motherhood in the Realm of Neurodiversity
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Send us a text Beth Pilchik opens up about her powerful journey as both a publicist dedicated to businesses serving neurodiverse individuals and as a mother navigating the often turbulent waters of raising an autistic child. From the poignant moment of her son Matthew's diagnosis to the daunting task of finding the right educational programs and ea…
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Kate and Missy: Empowering Neurodiverse Individuals – Navigating Social Dynamics, Mental Health, and Inclusive Employment Strategies
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Send us a text Unlock the secrets to navigating the neurotypical world as we sit down with Kate and Missy from Social Connections, a pioneering Nashville-based organization. Discover how their journey, which began in 1993 at Vanderbilt's psychiatric hospital, has evolved to support the unique social and dating needs of young autistic adults. Kate a…
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John Brown: Bridging Autism Awareness and Transforming First Responder Training – A Father's Deeply Personal Advocacy Journey
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Send us a text Ever wondered how to navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with John Brown, the First Responder Program Manager for the Autism Society of America, and an autistic dad to Wyatt, his non-speaking 8-year-old son. John shares his heartfelt journey, from recognizing the early signs…
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Send us a text What does it take to turn frustration into a thriving nonprofit that changes lives? Meet Danny Combs, a devoted father whose journey of supporting his autistic son, Dylan, led to the creation of TACT, an organization that empowers autistic individuals through trades and crafts. Discover the deeply personal story of Dylan's early auti…
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Barry Prizant: Shaping Compassionate Autism Understanding Through Passion, Research, and Personal Narratives
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Send us a text Discover the profound journey of Barry Prizant, one of the leading voices in autism research, as he shares his rich experiences and insights on "Why Not Me." From his early days at residential summer camps for individuals with disabilities to becoming a pivotal figure in the field, Barry's story is one of passion and dedication. Lear…
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Send us a text Unlock the secrets to overcoming personal challenges and finding your voice with Tom Iland, an extraordinary autistic coach, author, and Toastmasters accredited speaker. In this episode of "Why Not Me, the World?", Tom takes us through his transformative journey from his autism diagnosis at age 13 to becoming a beacon of inspiration …
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Iko Edward Fish: Transforming Self-Perception and Building Genuine Connections – A Journey of Late Autism Diagnosis and Personal Growth
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Send us a text What if realizing you were autistic as an adult could change not only your self-perception but also your life's mission? Meet Iko Edward Fish of Enlightened Consentment, who received his autism diagnosis at 38. His path from struggling with social interactions to becoming a beacon of hope for others on the spectrum is nothing short o…
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The vision behind this podcast is to share stories of individuals who have achieved success in the entertainment industry, both here in the U.S. and internationally. Our conversations will highlight the experiences of not just the talent, but also the behind the scenes personnel who contribute to the success of the industry. We will take a journey …
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Marie Martin: From Telecommunications to Warrior Mom – Transforming Autism Advocacy and Challenging Systemic Barriers
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Send us a text Marie Martin never imagined she'd become a fierce advocate for her autistic son, Zach, but life had other plans. J oin us as Marie reveals her transformative journey from a telecommunications professional to a warrior mom, equipped with a wealth of knowledge about autism, ADHD, and co-occurring conditions. You'll gain invaluable insi…
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Temple Grandin: Part 2: Embracing the Spectrum – Insights and Strategies for Thriving with Autism
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Send us a text Unlock the complexities of autism with Dr. Temple Grandin, one of the most respected voices in the field. Our in-depth conversation peels back the layers of the autistic experience, illuminating the importance of early intervention, hands-on learning, and the richness of talents within the spectrum. Discover how practical life skills…
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Temple Grandin: Part 1: Charting a New Frontier - Unleashing the Power of Autistic Minds in Society and Industry
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Send us a text From the depths of silence to a voice that echoes across the globe, Temple Grandin's life is a testament to the uncharted brilliance of the autistic mind. Our conversation peels back the curtain on Temple's journey, revealing the significance of nurturing communication in non-verbal children and the power of supportive educational sy…
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Send us a text Celebrating a year of heartfelt stories and shared experiences, "Why Not Me the World Podcast" reaches its first milestone with gratitude and excitement that knows no bounds. As your host Tony Mantor, I've had the honor of welcoming guests whose resilience and joy have touched us all, and now, from the vibrant city of Nashville, Tenn…
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AJ Cullen Langell: Unleashing Compassion – The Synergy of Canine Companions and Autism Support
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Send us a text Imagine discovering the key to unlocking new levels of connection and learning for those with autism—a key covered in fur and filled with unconditional love. That's exactly what AJ Cullen Langell brings to light in our heartwarming episode as she recounts the story of Autism Barks. AJ, a special education teacher, witnessed firsthand…
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Ebony Allard: Harmonizing Life's Symphony - From Autism Revelation to Entrepreneurial Innovations
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Send us a text When Ebony Allard stepped into the luminous yet puzzling world of her autism, she unearthed an unexpected sanctuary amidst the rhythmic hum of Spain's foreign tongue. Our latest conversation with this mystic artist and self-actualization facilitator is nothing short of a revelation, as she shares the untold nuances of living with aut…
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Send us a text Every family's journey is unique, yet some stories resonate with the universal rhythm of resilience and hope. Joining me today is Dawn Rix, whose melodious life as a singer-songwriter intertwines with her profound role as a mother to a son with autism. Dawn's tale, harking back to a time when autism was a whisper rather than a conver…
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Send us a text Navigating the intricate maze of raising children with autism and ADHD is a quest that resonates deeply with many, including myself. When Jana Fuchs, an expert clinical psychotherapist and coach, joined us, she brought not only her professional expertise but also her personal narrative of fostering a positive dynamic within her famil…
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John of Showboat TV: Orchestrating Inclusion and Celebrating Diversity through Music and Autism Engagement
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Send us a text When John from Showboat TV swapped his mobile DJ decks for the director's chair, he didn't just change his job title; he transformed lives. Tune in to an episode that's not only about beats and tunes but also about breaking barriers and creating a symphony of inclusivity, especially for those with autism and special needs. My guest, …
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Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it's like to view the world through a neurodiverse lens? Dr. Ashley Ruba, a developmental psychologist, peels back the curtain on her life with autism and ADHD, offering a rare glimpse into the delicate tightrope walk of managing the need for structure against the quest for new experiences. Through her eye…
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Send us a text As the vibrant hues of pageantry blend with the powerful message of inclusion, Katie Griswold stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration during Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Diagnosed with autism at age eight, Katie's story is one of determination, resilience, and the transformative power of self-expression through dance and…
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Send us a text When your world turns upside down after your child's autism diagnosis, where do you turn? Uzma's compelling journey as a certified autism specialist and parent unfolds in our latest podcast episode, where she candidly shares the heartaches and triumphs of raising a child on the spectrum. Her story is a beacon for parents wading throu…
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Rachel Winder: Weaving the Bonds of Neurodiversity - A Mother and Son's Enlightening Odyssey through Autism and ADHD
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Send us a text Every family has its own unique tapestry of experiences, but for Rachel Winder, the threads of her life weaved a particularly intricate pattern. As an autistic mother raising an autistic child, she faces the world with a perspective that's as enlightening as it is challenging. Step into Rachel's shoes for a moment and you'll begin to…
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Madison Sasser: Embracing the Voyage of Self-Discovery and Thriving with Autism in the Literary World
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Send us a text Discovering oneself can be a life-long journey, punctuated by profound moments of realization. For Madison Sasser, author and unguarded voice of the blogging world, that moment came at 23 with an autism diagnosis. Her story is one of navigating the murky waters of self-identity and professional life, a tale she recounts with raw hone…
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Send us a text Every parent's journey comes with its unique milestones and hurdles, but when you're raising a child on the autism spectrum, those experiences can redefine the very essence of resilience and discovery. Join me as I sit down with Lynne, the Awesomism Mom, who opens up about the rollercoaster ride parenting her son Peyton has been. Fro…
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Send us a text Imagine stepping into the world of a special education teacher who navigates the same trials and triumphs at home with her own autistic son as she does with her students. Meet Darcy Lippman, a remarkable mother and educator who joins me, Tony Mantor, to unravel the rich tapestry of her experiences with her son. Through Darcy's eyes, …
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Send us a text When Jim Irion finally pieced together the puzzle of his life after an autism diagnosis at 37, it was akin to finding a missing key to a lock long-closed. Our latest episode offers an intimate glimpse into Jim's powerful narrative, highlighting the profound influence a late diagnosis can have on understanding oneself and redefining o…
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Selena Lanelle: A Mother's Tale of Resilience and Empowerment in Raising Three Children with Autism
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Send us a text Imagine facing the challenges of parenting not one, but three young children with autism, each with their own unique set of needs and behaviors. Selena Lanelle, a brave mother and author, joins me to share her deeply moving story that stretches from the heartache of early autism signs in her twins to the complexities of navigating a …
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Chris Weakly: Uncovering Self-Truths - An Autistic Adult's Story of Self-Discovery and Empowerment
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Send us a text Imagine discovering a core truth about yourself that reshapes the narrative of your life. That's exactly what happened to Chris Weakly, who uncovered his autism diagnosis well into adulthood. Join me, Tony Mantor, on a profound journey with Chris as he opens up about the seismic shifts in self-awareness, personal relationships, and c…
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Leah Oladitan: Cultivating Wholesome Nutrition Across Life's Stages and Embracing Dietary Diversity in Autism
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Send us a text Navigate the complexities of nutrition with Leah Oladitan, a distinguished registered dietitian, as we uncover the dynamic realm of dietary guidance. Leah's international expertise illuminates the intricate process of customizing nutrition plans, debunking the myth that dietitians are merely gatekeepers of calorie counting. We traver…
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Send us a text When Kristy Mickelsen, a romance author turned fierce advocate, first noticed the early signs of autism in her children, she embarked on a journey many parents can relate to—one filled with determination, love, and the pursuit of understanding. Our heartfelt conversation with Kristi in today's episode is not just a story of parenting…
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Send us a text When Anna Kennedy OBE speaks, you can't help but be moved by the power of a mother's love and the strength it takes to move mountains for her children. Join us as Anna Kennedy shares her deeply emotional and empowering journey of raising two autistic sons, Patrick and Angelo. Her candid recollections—from confronting a world that lac…
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Bob and Sam Huber: Understanding, Accepting and Embracing Autism - A Father and Son's Journey
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Send us a text Have you ever felt like the 'black sheep' in your family, or perhaps, in the world? We embarked on a journey with Sam Huber and his father, Bob, who vulnerably shared their personal experiences with autism, the monumental challenges they faced, and the triumphs they ultimately celebrated. Sam gives us a vivid glimpse of living in a n…
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