Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

About Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

Every voice deserves to be heard, and every story has the power to inspire. Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism is a podcast dedicated to amplifying the neurodiverse community. Hosted by Jennifer Dantzler, a passionate advocate and educator, this show brings together autistic individuals, parents, educators, and community members to share real experiences, expert insights, and practical strategies. From navigating daily life to advocating for inclusion, each episode offers heartfelt conversations, powerful stories, and valuable resources to help us all better understand and support neurodiversity. The podcast where neurodiverse voices take center stage.

Publisher

Jennifer Dantzler

Category

business · health & fitness · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

20 Mar 2025

Latest episode

7 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

42 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   7 Oct 2026

   S4-Ep 40: How Grandparents Can Make a Difference with Jennifer Kaufman

   How can grandparents offer meaningful support when a grandchild is on the autism spectrum? Sometimes, the greatest gift is listening, respecting boundaries, and simply showing up. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler welcomes educator, advocate, and grandmother Jennifer Kaufman, author of Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey from Both Sides of the Desk. Drawing on her professional experience and personal journey, Jennifer shares honest stories and practical guidance for supporting both grandchildren and their parents. They explore navigating sensitive conversations, offering help without taking over, encouraging inclusion among cousins, and adapting holiday traditions to meet a child’s needs. Jennifer also highlights her work in first responder training and workplace inclusion, along with the importance of water safety. Whether you’re a grandparent, parent, or extended family member, this conversation offers a heartfelt reminder: you don’t have to have every answer to make a meaningful difference. Jen Kaufman Website

2. 

   23 Sept 2026

   S4-Ep 39: The College Transition: Helping Neurodivergent Students Thrive with Dr. Tara Williams

   Preparing for college is about much more than academics. In this episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Tara Williams, professor and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants, to talk about what neurodivergent students—and their families—can do to prepare for the transition from high school to college. From executive functioning, time management and accommodations to independent living, social connection and self-advocacy, Dr. Williams shares practical ways families can begin building these skills long before move-in day. She also discusses the importance of connecting with campus accessibility services, considering community college and bridge programs, and looking beyond academics when deciding whether a college environment is the right fit. One of the biggest takeaways? Independence doesn't happen overnight. Giving students opportunities to make decisions, solve problems, ask for help and even experience small failures can help them develop skills they'll need in college, the workplace and beyond. Whether college is right around the corner or still years away, this conversation offers plenty to think about when preparing neurodivergent young people for greater independence. Tune in for a conversation about preparing not just for college—but for what comes next. Facebook YouTube LinkedIn Instagram

3. 

   9 Sept 2026

   S4-Ep 38: The Power of Being Included: Lessons from Special Olympics Coach, Jarome Davis and Golfer Peyton Mattingly with his Father/Caddy Chad Mattingly

   Special Olympics is about so much more than sports—it's about belonging, friendship, confidence, leadership, and having the opportunity to shine. In this special two-part episode of Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism, host Jennifer Dantzler sits down with Dr. Jerome Davis, Head of Delegation for Special Olympics at Lone Star College, to talk about the growth of the program across the college system, the power of Unified Sports, and his unforgettable experience coaching Team Texas basketball to gold at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games. Then, Jennifer welcomes Special Olympics golfer Peyton Mattingly and his dad and caddy, Chad Mattingly. Peyton shares his love of golf, competing for Team Texas at the USA Games, finishing fourth, the friendships he's made along the way, and his goal of making it to the podium in 2030. Chad also reflects on Peyton's journey—from an early autism diagnosis and predictions about what he might not be able to do, to college, competitive golf, and a future filled with possibilities. Through both conversations, one message comes through loud and clear: inclusion isn't simply being invited—it's being given the opportunity to participate, contribute, compete, build friendships, and be part of the team.

Who has been a guest on Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.

• Christine Biddle
• Armando Bernal
• Jeffrey May
• Laura May
• Michael Rickli

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

11 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

4 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 32 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

52

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32