Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)

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Join us this week as we welcome back our friend and passionate advocate, Leanne Pritchett. Leanne shares real-life stories, practical tips, and her unique perspective as an educator and accessibility consultant. From IEP Meeting tips to how to make small changes that help the visually impaired navigate the world a little easier, this episode has tips for everyone.

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Step into the world of Leta, autistic tap dancer and founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company, as she prepares to fly out to LA. In “Leta's Guide to Surviving Planes and Panic (And Hiding Stuffies from Mom),” Leta shares her real-life strategies for navigating airports, managing sensory overload, and keeping her beloved stuffies close (even when Mom’s not looking). With humor, honesty, and a dancer’s determination, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into traveling with autism, the importance of routines and comfort items, and the joy of bringing a little tap-dancing spirit w...

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Blue J Cleaning isn’t your typical cleaning company. Founder Janet Shultz shares how her business hires autistic employees—not out of charity, but to build a team held to the highest standards. Discover how Blue J fosters a culture of respect, belonging, and opportunity, where every employee is treated the way anyone would want to be treated.

Learn more about Blue J Cleaning by visiting their website https://www.bluejcleaningfranchise.com/

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a mess...

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What happens when your favorite dancewear company sends you a Christmas Present in July? A pair custom designed with an autistic flair? You do a podcast all about how cool the shoes are! Join us as Amanda and Leta share the excitement, talk about the design, and discuss what makes these shoes so special.

If you want your own autistic themed tap shoes, contact LeAnn Kay at Styles in Motion: https://stylesinmotionllc.com/

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale...

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Join us as we sit down with Russell van Bracklen, also known as The Dyslexia Professor, to discuss his unique approach to dyslexia tutoring. Russell shares insights from his experience working with learners and offers practical strategies for support. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or student, this episode provides valuable perspectives on navigating dyslexia. 

For more information about Russell, visit his website https://dyslexiaclasses.com/

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.pod...

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Join Leta at Hollywood TapFest for tap dance, cake, and good vibes! In this episode of “Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life),” Leta and Amanda share festival stories, backstage laughs, and all the excitement of the tap community. Whether you’re a dancer, a fan, or just love a good festival story, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Learn all about Hollywood TapFest, register for this year's festival, or sign up to be the first to know about future festivals by visiting https://www.hollywoodtapfest.com/

To see the St...

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What happens when you have two neurospicy moms and two neurospicy daughters on the same podcast episode? Insanity! Dr Kristen Williamson and her daughter join Amanda and Leta to discuss what it is like living in a neurospicy home, being diagnosed with autism, the differences between the ADHD mind and the autistic mind, and a little bit about masking. (Of course we're going to talk about masking with Dr Kristen.)

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here...

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Join us this week as Leta shares how headphones, a very simple accommodation, help her navigate anxiety and find the strength to perform —both in the stage and beyond. From performance jitters to everyday challenges, discover the power of understanding, support, and a good pair of headphones. Whether you’re a dancer, parent, or advocate, this episode offers inspiration and real talk about neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and the little things that make a big difference.

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send Amanda Trisdale a mess...

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Ever wonder what your child is really trying to tell you—especially when words aren’t working? In this episode of “Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life),” we get real about the ups, downs, and surprises of raising neurodivergent kids.

We’re joined by Samantha Foot, a board-certified music therapist and host of the “Every Brain Is Different” podcast. Samantha shares her own stories and hard-won wisdom about meltdowns, sensory overload, and why “just discipline” doesn’t cut it for every kid. We talk about what it’s like to parent outside...

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You may know Michelle Choairy as the amazing woman behind Wisdom4Complex Kids and her THRIVE mentorship program. Maybe you recognize her from her frequent appearances on our show, sharing her experiences raising a Complex Kid.

However, today, we peel back that “Mom Veil.” This conversation is all about Michelle herself.

Join us as Michelle opens up about her own story—from her very first time slipping on ballet slippers in Brazil to her journey to the US to dance professionally. Discover a side of Michelle you haven’t heard be...

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We convinced Rob Delena to join us again here on “Leta’s Tap Styles (And my Autistic Life)”. (Without Ryan, who was busy celebrating his birthday and rock climbing.) Join us as Rob shares more of his journey as a parent navigating the special needs school system and mental health care with Ryan. Rob talks candidly about the challenges, tough choices, and lessons learned as he fought for his child’s happiness and well-being. And, of course, there are some stories about Rob and Ryan’s skiing adventures.

Want to read even more...

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Get ready for ruffles, rants, and sensory wins as only Leta can do! In this episode, Leta and Amanda count down Leta’s top three recital costumes based off Leta’s Sensory Issues—sharing laughs, stories, and what makes a costume truly sensory-friendly for Leta. Whether you love dance, live with sensory issues, or just want a peek behind the curtain of dancing with autism, this one’s for you!

Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdeta...

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Ever feel like you’re wearing a mask just to get through the day?  Dr Kristen drops by the show again to discuss autistic masking, why we do it, and how it can sneakily lead to autistic burnout. You know you’re in for laughs, honest moments, and a few “aha!” realizations whenever Dr Kristen stops by the show. Hit play and let’s get real—together!

You can find Kristen all over the web
Website: https://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamson
Facebook: https://www.f...

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Join us in this entertaining episode as Leta and Amanda explore the creative chaos behind the latest SoleTalk video choreographed by Chloe Arnold, famously known for 'Syncopated Ladies.' Leta goes a step further and uses her imagination, turning this brief video into a full-length feature film in her head. The conversation is filled with laughter, anecdotes about being part of SoleTalk while navigating autism and ADHD, behind-the-scenes stories from the set, and wild brainstorming sessions for a movie plot involving their dancing friends. A must-watch for dance enthusiasts, creatives, and anyone who...

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Join Leta, Amanda, and guest Jason Heffler on the Leta’s Tap Styles this Friends’ Friday. Jason joins us to discuss his children’s book, Tongue Tied. Tongue Tied is the story of Cadence, a chameleon who is shy and is often bullied for her speech impediment. Jason based Cadence’s story on his experiences with stuttering and bullying.

Through personal stories, we explore the effects of bullying, and why speech impediments don’t need to be “fixed”, but need to be understood and accepted.

Visit Jason's website to connect and to...

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In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome back Jennifer Celeste Briggs. Jennifer joins us to discuss the transformative Son Rise Program, and how it helped her with her daughter, Sarah. This enriching conversation goes in-depth into how the Son Rise Program helped Jennifer nurture Sarah's unique needs, celebrate Sarah’s quirks, and foster a loving and humorous connection. We delve into the importance of having a village to support parents and their autistic children, the importance of personalized education methods, and how respecting Sarah's individuality helped Sarah grow...

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In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, Leta and Amanda look at Leta’s Five Least Favorite Costumes, and the roll Leta’s complex sensory issues had on the list. They discuss the lack of understanding and knowledge most dance teachers have about sensory issues, and how those can affect a dancer’s ability to perform onstage. They touch on the challenges faced by autistic kids in traditional dance environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding the spectrum of sensory sensitivities. The episode also delves into Leta's personal experiences with various recital...

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Join Amanda and Leta sit down with Kara Nash, a registered nurse who is also autistic, to discuss various aspects of autism from a medical perspective. From the importance of stimming and the misunderstanding of autistic meltdowns to the flaws in school systems and special education, the episode covers a wide range of significant topics. Kara shares her expertise on why typical punitive measures are ineffective and harmful for autistic individuals, and the discussion delves the necessity for a better understanding and acceptance of different neurotypes in all walks of life. (With a...

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In this episode, Amanda and Leta delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome, and how it often affects dance students. They discuss how dance is often touted as a confidence booster for children, yet many dancers, including Leta, struggle with feelings of not belonging, not being perfect, and wanting to hide in the shadows. Tears are mixed with dark humor as they dive deep into Leta’s personal struggles with imposter syndrome.

Want to come on the show to talk about tap dancing, dance, autism, or neurodivergency? Check out our profile on...

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Join us as we dive deep into the complexities of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia with special guest, Jess Arce, owner of 3D Learning Experts Tutoring. Jess, who has extensive experience with neurodiversity including her own family, helps us dymystify dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. She explains what these learning differences actual are, common misconceptions, and effective teaching strategies. We also discuss homeschooling, accommodations in education, and the impact of COVID-19 on learning. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that offers valuable insights for parents, educators, and anyone interested in understanding neurodiversity.

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In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, we talk about how anyone can dance. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can dance. We talk a bit about some of those people who were told they couldn’t dance or sing, or play a guitar. Yet they became some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. We also thank Autistic Wings Dance Company’s April Donors and Supporters. And we finally get to tell the world that So Danca is one of the studio’s supporters! We end with a call for e...

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In this conversation, Amanda Trisdale, Rebecca Prejean, and Leta Rundell discuss the challenges and experiences of raising neurodivergent children, particularly in educational settings. They share personal stories about bullying, the importance of understanding and patience from educators, and the impact of the pandemic on therapy and social interactions for children with autism. The discussion emphasizes the need for advocacy, community support, and the importance of treating neurodivergent individuals with respect and dignity. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss the unique challenges faced by different generations, particularly focusing on Gen Z and Gen...

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In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, we welcome “Friend of the Podcast” April Ratchford. April brings her knowledge as an occupational therapist, as an autistic person, and as the mother of an autistic child to the table. (He will always be her child, even if he is now an adult.) Together with Leta's personal experiences - and a few mic drops - we discuss who gets to decide what an autistic person's limitations are, and why acceptance is accommodations, not ignoring autistic limitations exist.

As always, when April...

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In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom, Amanda, discuss the impact of therapy dogs in educational settings with Dr. Barbara Vokatis, half of an amazing therapy dog team, and a professor of Education. They explore the differences between therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Dr. Barb shares unique experiences of including her dog, Carmel, in classroom activities, enhancing learning and reducing stress among children. The conversation also delves into potential applications of therapy dogs in dance studios and other environments, stressing the importance of cr...

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In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda discuss the challenges and experiences involving eye dominance in dance, specifically addressing the left eye dominance and its impact on performing pirouettes. They explore the neurodiversity within dance studios, the importance of tailored accommodations, and the misunderstandings faced by autistic individuals. The episode also touches on the significance of supportive environments, individual preferences like favorite Pokémon and characters from My Little Pony, and the need for better training for educators working with neurodiverse students. Additionally, they highlight the unique asp...

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In this heartfelt episode of the  Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, host Leta and her mom welcome Sam, an autism advocate a podcaster, and the brain behind 'Autism Rocks and Rolls.' They discuss common misconceptions about autism, the struggles and strengths of autistic individuals, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Sam shares his experiences growing up with autism, the therapies that helped him, and the challenges he faced. They also talk about Leta’s nonprofit dance studio for autistic people and the need for greater awareness and acceptance. This episode is a can...

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In this episode of 'Leta's Tap Styles', Leta and Amanda delve into their personal experiences with autism, focusing on how it defines their identity. They discuss how well-meaning people will often ignore that someone is autistic, using the phrase “I don’t see autism.” They discuss the misconceptions surrounding acceptance (especially when it comes to claiming acceptance is ignoring autism and the limitations autistic people face), the importance of true acknowledgment, and the necessity of accommodations. Highlighting their dance studio experiences, they recount the challenges of masking, the misunderstandings by teachers, and the emotio...

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Dr Kristen Williamson returns to the podcast for a discussion on advocating for neurodiversity within the military, focusing on the challenges and strategies for supporting neurodivergent children and their families. We discuss the stress levels experienced by parents of neurodivergent children, managing PCS moves, and the importance of understanding the specific needs and rights under the Defense Health Agency. Dr. Kristen shares her experiences and insights as a licensed professional counselor, late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD individual, and military spouse. We emphasizes the critical need for advocacy, proper diagnosis, and the right to behavioral...

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This week features Leta discussing her latest video and photo shoot, and how autism does or does not affect her ability to handle shoots. Leta also discusses her experiences dancing and interacting with animals. The conversation covers various subjects including filming for her tap dance career, how she manages sensory issues, and why she isn’t afraid of doing improv. Leta also shares her encounters with the “Not Hollywood” trained farm dogs during a video shoot on her grandfather's farm. (Along with a discussion about how cool the farm dogs are, and how fluffy...

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In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, guest Rebecca Engle, a special education teacher, ten-time author, and six-time poet, shares her experiences growing up nonverbal, her journey to becoming verbal, and her work in special education. Rebecca uses her own experiences using IEPs and 504s as a student to explain the importance of both IEPs and 504s. We discuss Rebecca’s experiences with writing both children's books and poetry. Rebecca’s insights on the struggles faced by autistic individuals with educational and therapeutic systems from the viewpoint of someone on the Spectrum themse...

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This conversation explores the differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, particularly in the context of their experiences during the COVID pandemic. It highlights the impact of online learning and therapy on childhood development, communication styles, and the cultural references that shape their identities. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by Gen Alpha in terms of learning disabilities, physical development, and the need for whimsical storytelling in media. In this conversation, Leta Rundell and Amanda Trisdale explore the generational differences between Gen Alpha and previous generations, particularly focusing on language, respect...

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In this episode, host Leta and her mom welcome guest Kerie Logan, a therapist, empowerment specialist, podcast host, and parent of an autistic child with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance). They delve into topics such as autism, masking, the importance of parental understanding, and how technical difficulties impacted their recording session. Carrie shares personal experiences and professional advice on diagnosing autism, managing masking behaviors, and the significance of creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also critiques traditional approaches like ABA therapy and emphasizes the value of being authentic.

C...

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In this episode, Leta and her mom discuss the multifaceted nature of their podcast, blending tap dancing and autism awareness. They talk about their nonprofit, Autistic Wings Dance Company, its founding, and the need for fundraising to expand their dance studio to better serve autistic children. They share a heartwarming profile about one of the dance students at Autistic Wings Dance Company and express their dedication to creating a supportive environment for autistic dancers and their parents. The episode calls for donations to support their mission and touches on generational differences, particularly the...

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In this episode of the 'Tap Styles' podcast, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Michael. They discuss Michael's autism diagnosis journey, workplace challenges, and the importance of accommodations for autistic individuals. They emphasize the need for understanding and supportive environments, particularly in work and school settings. The conversation critiques traditional ABA therapy and how traditional ABA promotes harmful practices. Michael talks about his own advocacy work and podcast, stressing the significance of safe spaces and authentic living for neurodivergent individuals. Leta shares her experiences with dance teachers and the importance of a supportive, inclusive...

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In this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta celebrate the first anniversary of the Autistic Wings Dance Company, reflecting on their journey, challenges faced in traditional dance studios, and the importance of creating an inclusive environment for autistic dancers. They discuss the founding of Autistic Wings Dance Company, the need for fundraising to support growth, and their vision for the future, emphasizing the significance of community support and understanding in the dance world.

To help support Autistic Wings Dance Company's 350 in 365 Campaign, please visit https://donorbox.org/350-in-365-1

To...

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In this episode of Leta's Tap Styles podcast, Leta and Amanda host guest Mario Wissa, who shares his journey from Cairo, Egypt to the United States, his diverse professional background, and his passion for communication. The discussion delves into the challenges and nuances of communication, and how it is different for each and every individual. Mario takes some time to question Leta about her communication preferences, and discusses how little things like asking others how they communicate can help build bridges. Leta shares her creative projects, including clay artworks and the Lego polybag...

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In this engaging conversation, Amanda and Leta discuss the intersection of autism and the dance studio. They focus on the importance of true authenticity and the detrimental effects of masking. They explore the challenges faced by autistic dancers in traditional dance environments, the role of teachers in fostering inclusivity, modeling true authenticity to their students, and the impact of generational trauma on perceptions of both physical and “hidden” limitations. (Such as physical disabilities, dyslexia, autism, and other disabilities.)

Leta and Amanda emphasize the need for supportive spaces where everyone – dance teachers and da...

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In this heartwarming and informative episode of 'Leta Tap Styles', hosts Leta and Amanda welcome Dr. Kristen Williamson, a licensed professional counselor with a PhD in Behavioral Health Management. Join them as they discuss living with autism and ADHD and how it affects their every day life. Come along as they share personal stories, the challenges of masking behaviors, and the unique experiences of military families. Shared anecdotes provide insights into the struggles and triumphs of managing neurodiverse conditions.

Places you can find Dr Kristen Williamson

https://www.tiktok...

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Join Leta and Amanda on this week’s “Tap Tuesday” where they take a break from serious topics and discuss a little bit of fluff and toss in a breakdown of Chloe Arnold's choreography. You'll get a glimpse of their fun interactions, quirky discussions, and spontaneous moments. They also touch upon special events coming up, like the Hollywood and DC Tap Fests, and Leta’s admiration for her mentor, choreographer Chloe Arnold. Special mention of Aaron Watson, Leta's favorite singer of all times, liking Leta's dance video on Instagram adds a personal touch to the e...

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In this episode of Leta Tap Styles podcast, guest Dr. Bibi Pirayesh, an educational therapist and adjunct faculty at Pepperdine University, joins us to discuss neurodiversity as a social justice. Especially when it comes to the needs of neurodiverse students in the world of education. Leta shares her personal experience with dance teachers. Dr. Bibi emphasizes the need to see neurodiversity as a social justice issue. She also discusses the need to critique the educational system's neurotypical structures. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, the importance of inclusive teaching...