Rockin the Difference

The Independence I Asked For I spent 23 years fighting for Ryan’s independence. Now that he’s an adult, he’s giving me exactly what I asked for… and it’s driving me a little crazy. 😂 From clogged toilets and broken furniture to shaving mishaps, dirty walls, and a whole lot of “Mom, I’ve got this!”—we’re talking about the messy, frustrating, hilarious reality of letting an adult child with blindness and autism become more independent. Because sometimes the hardest part of independence isn’t teaching them how to do it… It’s learning when to let go. And yes, Ryan is also a Taurus. So…there’s that. ♉️😂

In this heartfelt episode of Rocking the Difference, I sit down with an incredible mom, Becky, and her two adult daughters, Hannah and Nicole, to honor the life and legacy of Breanna—their daughter and sister who had multiple disabilities, including blindness and mobility challenges, and who passed away three years ago. Together, we explore the deep love, joy, and challenges they experienced as a special needs family, and how Breanna’s presence shaped their bond. We talk about the funny memories, the hard days, the strength Breanna unknowingly gave them, and what life looks like now without her physical presence—but with her spirit still very much alive. This emotional and uplifting conversation is a tribute to unconditional love, sisterhood, and the resilience of families who walk this unique path. Tune in for a story that will move your heart and remind you that the love we give and receive knows no limits.

On today’s episode of Rocking the Difference, I am honored to welcome an incredible guest whose story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of self-belief. Amanda Casarella grew up facing challenges that many of us can relate to—struggling with a learning disability, battling debilitating migraines that kept her out of school, and navigating the stigma of being placed in special education. On top of that, she endured shame and abuse that made her believe her identity and worth were tied to her disability. She made the courageous choice to reclaim her narrative, break free from the limitations placed on her, and step into the truth of who she is. Today, she embraces her journey, knowing that every challenge shaped the powerhouse woman she’s become. She’s now a passionate actress and entrepreneur, using her experiences sharing her journey to inspire others, proving that our past does not define us—our determination does. You can find Amanda Casarella here: Instagram: @Amanda.Casarella and @alittlehouseorganized www.amandacasarella.com www.alittlehouseorganized.com

Today I talk with my friend, Nada Mouchawar, on the sacrifices we make as parents of special needs individuals. We all make sacrifices to ensure our kids are getting the best of what we can give them. With Nada, this meant moving countries with her kids, while her husband stayed. It meant giving up what she was familiar with to make sure her son lived a full life and adjusting to a new family dynamic with her kids and long distance marriage. She’s an amazing woman and I hope you can resonate with her story.

In today’s episode I talk with Erin and Bruce Wilson who founded If I Need Help. They started this non profit which provides a system to help find special needs kids, as well as individuals suffering from dementia or Alzheimers, that go missing, especially for those who can’t communicate. It uses modern technologies to help reunite those who might become lost, disoriented or need assistance in a critical moment. They share what inspired them to start this business, how it has impacted their family, how to learn more about it as well as some awesome success stories. To learn more you can find the at www.ifineedhelp.org

Aubrie Forte has been a special person in our lives for almost 17 years now. She has been a teacher in special education and now works directly with schools to support programs on campus, with students, teachers and families. She was Ryan’s teacher throughout elementary school and is lovingly known as Ryan’s Forever Teacher because she continues to be a part of his life. She has a BA in SpED and an MA in mod/severe disabilities. She shares her insights on what she has learned along her journey from the students and families she has been involved with. She also offers thoughts for parents, suggestions for those considering becoming a special education teacher along with funny and heart warming stories and learning experiences throughout her journey.