"We all should be thoughtful of each other. Whether we see something or don't see something, we should all be treated with respect, politeness, and a willingness to learn and grow from whomever we’re interacting with."

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Antonio Myers, a dedicated disability advocate and host of the TonioTimeDaily podcast. Antonio shares his inspiring journey as an autistic adult, highlighting his academic success, his passion for advocacy, and his commitment to fostering respect and positivity.

The conversation covers the importance of self-love, understanding different learning styles, and navigating challenges with confidence. Antonio also discusses the impacts of COVID-19 on the neurodivergent community and emphasises the power of empathy and education in debunking myths and changing narratives around neurodiversity.

Key Takeaways:

• Research autism-friendly networks and support systems.
• Use positive affirmations to build self-confidence.
• Educate those around you calmly and with empathy.

"Choose to refer to yourself with positive affirmations—it sets the tone for how you approach the world."

About Antonio:
Antonio Myers is a passionate disability advocate and host of the TonioTimeDaily podcast. Overcoming early life challenges due to Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Antonio excelled academically, becoming a valedictorian and earning a degree in Human Services. His advocacy includes work with the DC State Rehabilitation Council and The Brewer Foundation. Antonio’s podcast shares insights on societal issues and promotes human values, available on major platforms like Spotify.

TonioTimeDaily Podcast on Spotify

Learn more about _Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and _X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.

“Therapy isn’t about fixing someone; it’s about empowering them to recognise their own strengths.”

In this debut episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob, founder of Achievable Journey, shares her inspiring story and vision for the podcast. Joined by her friend Jude, Asma discusses her journey as a SEND Holistic Therapist, working with children and adults with special educational needs.

Asma reveals why she started this podcast: to create a safe space where the SEND and neurodivergent community can feel heard and validated. She explains how she empowers her clients by focusing on their unique strengths and building trust-based relationships, using techniques like Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), solution-based psychotherapy, and emotional freedom techniques.

In this episode, you'll learn about the core values behind Your Voice Matters and get a sneak peek into the powerful conversations to come.

Key Takeaways:

· Every individual is unique, and therapy should meet people where they are.

· Building a community is key to reducing isolation and fostering connection.

· “When you’ve seen one autistic person, you’ve seen one autistic person.”

Learn more about Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.

“Surround yourself with people who understand, and you do find your tribe.”

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob chats with Carly Considine, an autistic adult and advocate for the neurodivergent community. Carly shares how her diagnosis brought clarity and improved her mental health, while also opening up about raising three autistic children.

She explores the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals, the importance of understanding autism in girls and women, and the value of finding a supportive community. Carly’s story offers inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone navigating similar journeys.

Key Takeaways:

• A diagnosis can bring clarity and support mental health for individuals and families.
• Every neurodivergent individual’s experience is different and should be treated as such.
• Autism in girls and women can present differently, requiring greater awareness and understanding.
• Building a supportive community is essential—online groups can be a great place to start.

“Facebook support groups are incredible. You find like-minded friends, like-minded parents, and even autistic adults. You become a community.”

About Carly:
Carly Considine is an autistic adult diagnosed in 2015, with two autistic daughters diagnosed in 2019. She is a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community, with a special focus on female autism and comorbidities like ADHD. Carly has volunteered with the National Autistic Society and continues her advocacy work online, sharing her experiences to support others.

Learn more about _Achievable Journey

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and _X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.