E14: Seasons and Reasons + Therapy

E14: Seasons and Reasons + Therapy

In this episode, we sit down with Iris , a late-identified AuDHD speech therapist, mom of two neurodiverse kids, and fellow Asian American navigating identity. Topics we covered: Group therapy vs. one-on-one therapy, Iris' & Bettina's adult diagnosis story, cultural identity, social media, unmasking, and going inward If you’ve ever wondered: “Why doesn’t traditional therapy work for me?” “Is it okay to heal differently?” This conversation is for you. Terms to know: SLP (Speech-Language Pathologist) A licensed professional who supports communication, language, speech, and social communication development. Neurodivergent (ND) A term describing brains that function differently from what’s considered “typical,” including autism, ADHD, PDA, dyslexia, and more. AuDHD A term used by people who identify as both autistic and ADHD. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance / Persistent Drive for Autonomy) A profile within autism and ADHD characterized by a nervous system-based need to resist or avoid demands due to heightened threat response. Masking Suppressing or hiding autistic/ADHD traits to appear “socially acceptable.” Often leads to burnout and identity confusion. Unmasking The process of reconnecting with and expressing one’s authentic neurodivergent self. Interoception The ability to sense internal body signals (hunger, anxiety, heart rate, emotions). Many neurodivergent people experience interoceptive differences. Somatics / Somatic Work Body-based therapeutic approaches that focus on nervous system regulation and stored trauma. GLP (Gestalt Language Processor) A language development style where individuals learn language in chunks or scripts before breaking them down into smaller units.

E13: We Can't Do This Alone: Expand Your Village

Parenting neurodivergent kids can be isolating, but trying to do it all alone can quietly break you and your marriage. In this episode, the we open up about the invisible weight that "autism families" carry: the fear of trusting others to watch our kids. Finding (and expanding) your village isn’t just about getting help.. it’s about keeping your relationship alive. We also unpack experiences with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), explaining what that might look like and how it shows up at home. Terms & Definitions Neurodivergent – Individuals whose brain processes differ from societal norms (autism, ADHD, dyslexia, etc.). Meltdown – A response to sensory or emotional overload; not a behavioral choice (not the same as tantrums) Masking – Suppressing authentic traits to appear “typical,” often at personal cost. PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) – A profile within autism or ADHD marked by anxiety-driven avoidance of demands. Reparenting – Healing by giving yourself and your children the emotional support you didn’t receive as a child. Roommate Syndrome – When partners lose intimacy and connection, functioning only as co-parents or taskmates. Apostolic Duty – A Filipino phrase implying grandparents have a sacred responsibility to care for their grandchildren (“apo”). Follow us on Instagram: @notatigermompodcast [instagram.com/notatigermompodcast] @beeingaudhd [instagram.com/beeingaudhd] @msjennybx [instagram.com/msjennybx]

E12: Autism Advocacy Through Intersectionality with Daniella Boyd

In this episode, we sit down with Daniella (@autism.conmigo) to talk about what it's like raising autistic kids at the intersections of culture, language, and neurodiversity. We go deep into breaking stigma in immigrant families, navigating faith and shame, and the power of naming autism for what it is. Daniella shares her journey from teacher to advocate, what inclusion in classrooms should look like, and why homeschooling became the right choice for her family. We also unpack the DIR Floortime vs. ABA conversation, access barriers for families, and why representation and chosen family matter so much in our communities. Terms to Know DIR/Floortime Developmental, Individual-differences, Relationship-based approach. It’s a play-based framework that focuses on connection, joy, and following a child’s lead. ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) A therapy model often covered by insurance for autistic kids. It uses behavior principles to teach skills and reduce barriers. Families may have different experiences with ABA, and there’s ongoing debate about its approaches and outcomes. Inclusion An educational approach where students with disabilities learn alongside their peers in general education classrooms, with supports and accommodations as needed. True inclusion requires trained staff and resources, not just placement in the same room. Segregated Classrooms Separate classes for students with disabilities or specific needs, apart from general education peers. Often used when schools lack staff or training for inclusive models. Intersectionality The way different parts of a person’s identity (race, culture, disability, immigration status, language, gender, etc.) overlap to create unique experiences, challenges, and strengths. Stigma Negative beliefs, shame, or stereotypes attached to autism or disability — often shaped by cultural or religious views. Masking When autistic or neurodivergent people hide or suppress parts of themselves to “fit in” or feel safer in social or public settings. Regional Center (California) State-funded agencies that connect people with developmental disabilities (like autism) to services such as therapies, respite, and support programs. Self-Determination Program (California) An option through Regional Center that gives families more control over their budget so they can choose supports, staff, and programs that best fit their needs. Follow us on Instagram: @notatigermompodcast [https://instagram.com/notatigermompodcast] @beeingaudhd [https://instagram.com/beeingaudhd] @msjennybx [https://instagram.com/msjennybx] Connect with Daniella: @autism.conmigo [https://instagram.com/autism.conmigo] | allplayisokay.com [allplayisokay.com]

E11: From East to West: A Season of Shift

We’re back after several months! Welcome to Season 2 of Not a Tiger Mom! In this first episode, we catch up on all the life updates: Bettina shares about her upcoming move to California, Jenny talks about her new part-time job, and we chat about our personal goals for our businesses. We also share what’s ahead for Not a Tiger Mom. We’re so excited to be back and hope you enjoy this new season with us! Enjoyed this podcast episode? Please subscribe and leave a review! Sign up for our email list on on our website: ⁠https://msha.ke/notatigermom⁠ [https://msha.ke/notatigermom] Follow us on instagram: @notatigermompodcast Jenny - @msjennybx Bettina - @beeingaudhd

E10: Not a Tiger Dad -Season 1 Finale

For our final episode this season, we’re joined by our friend Chris, a father navigating life as an Asian American (1/2 Filipino & 1/2 White) parent of an autistic child. Chris opens up about his journey from receiving his son’s diagnosis and raising him within his family’s cultural dynamics. We dive into the challenges and reasons why autism dads are less visible on social media and discuss the critical role of finding community and support. Join us for an honest conversation on the realities of support needs fatherhood, cultural dynamics, and building connections in the autism community. Terms: MCHAT - The M-CHAT, or Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers, is a short questionnaire that helps parents and doctors check for early characteristics of autism in young children, usually between 16 and 30 months old. It includes simple questions about a child's behavior, like whether they make eye contact, respond to their name, or show interest in playing with others. If the M-CHAT shows possible traits of autism, the child can be referred for a more detailed evaluation to see if they need extra support. HSP - Highly Sensitive Person. This is someone who has a more sensitive nervous system, meaning they can easily feel overwhelmed by things like loud noises, bright lights, strong smells, or intense emotions. HSPs are often very aware of details around them, feel emotions deeply, and may need more time to recharge after busy or stressful situations. Being highly sensitive isn’t a disorder; it’s simply a personality trait that some people have. Chismis - "Chismis" is a Filipino term that means gossip or rumors. It refers to talking about other people’s personal lives, often spreading unverified stories or news. Chismis can be harmless sharing among friends, but it can also lead to misunderstandings or drama if information isn’t accurate. It’s like the “grapevine” or “tea” in English, where people chat about others’ lives and situations. Enjoyed this podcast episode? Please subscribe and leave a review! Sign up for our email list on on our website: https://msha.ke/notatigermom [https://msha.ke/notatigermom] Follow us on instagram: @notatigermompodcast Jenny - @msjennybx Bettina - @itsannbettina Follow Chris @unlearningdad