Autism, ADHD and Family Dynamics: Part 1 on Neurodiversity in Relationships

Autism, ADHD and Family Dynamics: Part 1 on Neurodiversity in Relationships

On our first ever LIVE podcast, we welcome guests: Spencer Pusey, 34 years old, autistic decoration specialist at Spectrum Designs, and a Port Washington native, and Kelli Fisher, 37 years old, autistic social media manager at Spectrum Designs. Spectrum Designs is a nonprofit social enterprise that creates custom apparel and promotional products while providing meaningful employment opportunities for autistic adults and others with disabilities. Their mission is to prove that inclusion isn't charity—it's good business. Every order supports a workplace where neurodivergent employees earn competitive wages, build careers, and showcase their talents while delivering high-quality products to businesses and organizations nationwide. The topic is Neurodiversity in Relationships: Understanding ADHD and Autism. We are honored to be joined by the incredible team from Spectrum Designs [https://www.spectrumdesigns.org/ourteam], Kelli Fisher and Spencer Pusey, who are helping us better understand autism and showing what's possible when people are valued for their unique strengths. This topic is deeply personal to our family. Our close family members have ADHD and it's taught us that understanding how someone is wired can transform a relationship. Together with our special guests from Spectrum Designs and teen, Riley Bloomgarden, who shares her own personal experience with ADHD we will discuss: * How differently wired brains experience the world * Common communication misunderstandings * Leading with curiosity instead of judgement * How to create community in all relationships and the workforce

How Do You Handle Stress: Bonus Content

Bonus Content - A conversation on stress and how Lucette and Cathy each have their own strategy.

The Conversation We All Need to Have About Aging Parents

What happens when the people who once cared for us begin navigating their own vulnerabilities? In this candid discussion, Lucette, just weeks away from turning 84, shares her perspective on aging, purpose, family, and the future. Together we explore the emotional landscape of growing older and what adult children can learn by asking the questions that matter most.

The Relationship Killer Nobody Talks About

In this episode, we investigate the question "Am I defending who I think I am, or am I becoming who I could be?" How fixed mindsets keep us stuck and what happens if we choose growth? If you have to spend extended time this summer with a family member who is locked in their view point. This episode is for you. We offer tips to understand how to communicate best with the ones we love, even if they think "That's just who I am" or "They'll never change." Take away tips. Even if you don't agree, ask questions as to what their viewpoint is. People sometimes just want to be heard. Set boundaries before time spent (and do it with humor) "I'm on a no politics diet this summer" Create a signal so that those you are traveling with you can help divert attention if a conversation gets too heated.

The Secret to Stronger Relationships? Stop Trying to Win

What can one of the world's most celebrated event planners teach us about relationships? This week, legendary event planner David Monn joins Cathy and Lucette to share wisdom gained from producing hundreds of weddings and navigating the emotions that come with bringing families together. From weddings to everyday life David reminds us that compromise ins't giving something up- it's choosing something else. And... what if being the bigger person isn't losing yourself - but expanding your capacity to love? And... weddings are not just about creating a beautiful day - they are about creating the foundation for a beautiful family. Together they discuss: *Why managing expectations matters. *How we are never just "I" - we become part of a much bigger "We". *The changing role of modern grooms and their families *How inclusion - not perfection- is what people remember. David's advice to every bride: Trust that you will be the most important person on your wedding day. Then be the bigger person and make sure everyone feels like they belong. Tune in to find out how you can build even more meaningful connections.