Rockin the Difference

Episode 28: Beyond What You See with Tiffany V. Easterbrook

Beyond What You See | Featuring Tiffany V. Easterbrook What if everything you thought you understood about someone… was only a fraction of the story? In this special episode, Ryan and I sit down with Tiffany V. Easterbrook for her YouTube interview series to share our journey—one that goes far beyond first impressions. We talk about what it’s really like raising and living as a blind and autistic young man, the challenges we’ve faced, the growth we’ve experienced, and the powerful moments that have shaped who we are today. Ryan joins the conversation in his own voice—bringing his personality, humor, and even singing a little and that reminds us all just how important it is to truly see people for who they are. This conversation is heartfelt, eye-opening, and filled with reminders that inclusion starts when we look beyond what’s on the surface. 🎥 Be sure to check out Tiffany’s YouTube channel @TiffanyEasterbrook to watch the full interview and experience the connection for yourself. https://youtu.be/X9FxbwZOJsU?si=dwBq9ItxQ3BflbUA And stay tuned… this is just the beginning. I’ll be sitting down with Tiffany soon for another powerful conversation as she prepares for the release of her upcoming book—you won’t want to miss it.

Episode 27: Deciding to Homeschool with Tiffany Henry

What happens when the traditional path no longer feels like the right one for your child? In this episode, I sit down with my friend Tiffany Henry as she opens up about the deeply personal decision to homeschool her autistic son. From navigating unmet needs in a conventional school setting to trusting her instincts as a mother, Tiffany shares the pivotal moments that led her to choose a different path. We dive into the real, unfiltered side of homeschooling—the challenges, the doubts, the logistical hurdles, and the emotional weight of stepping outside the norm. But we also explore the powerful rewards: the freedom to tailor learning, the strengthening of their bond, and the breakthroughs that happen when a child is truly seen and supported. If you’re a parent questioning whether the traditional system is serving your child… If you’ve felt that quiet nudge that there might be another way… If you’re wondering whether you have what it takes to do something different… This conversation will meet you right where you are—and maybe even give you the clarity and courage to explore what’s possible.

Episode 26: When Plans Change: Pivoting as a Special Needs Parent

This episode wasn’t planned. I found out my mother-in-law passed away just days before I leave on a big trip with my mom. And as a special needs parent, moments like this hit differently. How does your child process grief? What does change feel like in their nervous system? How do you hold space for them while also preparing to step away? In this episode, I share how Ryan responds to unexpected news, what grief can look like in neurodivergence, and the tension of missing him deeply while also being grateful I’m able to travel at all. Caregiving is learning to pivot without losing yourself. If you’re walking through change right now, you’re not alone. 🤍 #CaregiverSupport #NeurodivergentAdults #SpecialNeedsMom #ParentingThroughChange

Episode 25: Love, Care, and Financial Clarity: Planning Ahead for Our Special Needs Children with Jennifer Brown

In this episode of Rockin’ the Difference, I site down with Jennifer Caryn Brown—financial advisor and adoptive mom to a child with special challenges—for an honest and empowering conversation about caregiving, planning ahead, and finding peace of mind. Jennifer shares her personal journey navigating special services, advocacy, and parenting, while also offering practical guidance on how families can financially prepare for their child’s future. From understanding key planning tools to shifting from fear-based decisions to intentional ones, this episode bridges lived experience with professional insight. Whether you’re a caregiver just starting to think about long-term planning or someone feeling overwhelmed by the “what ifs,” this conversation is a reminder that you don’t have to do it all at once—and you don’t have to do it alone. You can find more information forJennifer below:  Website: www.browninvestmentmanagement.com email: jennifer@browninvestmentmanagement.com Social Media: @BrownInvestmentManagement

Episode 24: Shedding Skin - What 2025 Asked of Me

As 2025 comes to a close, this  episode of Rockin the Difference reflects on a year of profound change, challenges, and growth. I share what it meant to navigate major caregiving transitions for my son Ryan, face unexpected delays and emotional strain, and arrive at year’s end feeling both stretched and resilient. As I turn 50 on New Year’s Eve and reflects on shedding old layers to step into a new season, this episode marks the beginning of a year-end tradition—one rooted in honesty, healing, hope, and moving forward with intention.