In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, host Shannon Urquiola wraps up 2025 with a powerful conversation about what it really means to find your people when you’re raising an autistic child.

Inspired by a request from a NYAAM member, Shannon shares real stories from her own journey with Jordan and Maddie and talks about why surface-level friendships aren’t enough in this life. This episode dives into vulnerability, honesty, and the willingness it takes to be seen — and why trying to do it all alone often leads to isolation and burnout.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Why “I’m fine” friendships don’t hold up in autism parenting

• How hiding behind a façade keeps you lonely, even when you’re surrounded by people

• What it looks like to step out of your comfort zone and ask for help

• How sharing your story helps other moms feel less alone — and helps you find your people

• Why this journey was never meant to be carried alone

This is the final episode of 2025. Shannon will be back every Thursday in 2026, starting with episode 252 on January 8th.

If you’ve ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or alone in this journey, this episode will remind you that your people are out there — and you don’t have to stop searching.

📺 Now available on video too! Watch on this podcast page or Spotify, or listen as always—whichever way you tune in, we’re just glad you’re here.

Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey with us! Together, we are stronger.

🌟 Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership. Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be. ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

1⁠⁠29. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors⁠⁠

⁠⁠158. Navigating Hygiene Struggles; Path to Cleanliness

In this milestone 250th episode, Shannon sits down for one of the most honest, heartfelt conversations she’s ever had on the podcast — a conversation she wishes someone could have had with her 20 years ago.

If you’ve ever wondered whether things will get better…
If you’ve ever felt like you’re failing…

If you’ve ever questioned your strength, your patience, or your progress… This episode is for you.

Shannon shares the real truth about how this journey changes over time — not because autism goes away, but because you grow, your child grows, and the lessons you learn along the way slowly reshape everything.

Inside, she talks about:

• why your motherhood was never meant to look like anyone else’s

• what actually gets easier (and what doesn’t)

• how to stop bracing for every meltdown

• the moment she realized she didn’t have to join Jordan’s storm

• celebrating the small wins that become the big wins

• and how to stop carrying this journey alone

You’ll hear a brand-new story from Shannon’s week — a story of growth, family dinner, dysregulation, humor, and a moment that would have shattered the entire night years ago but didn’t… because time and lessons really do change things.

Whether you’re on Episode 1 or Episode 250, you belong here.
This episode will help you breathe a little deeper, judge yourself a little less, and remember that you are doing better than you think.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S.Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠Get Details HERE⁠⁠ ⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠⁠218. Planning for the Unplanned; A Legacy of Care⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠137. Explaining our Children’s Differences⁠

— A Holiday Pep Talk

If you’ve ever dreaded the question “What does he want for Christmas?” this episode is for you.
In Episode 249 of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon sits down for a heartfelt, honest conversation about gift-giving when your autistic child doesn’t like toys, doesn’t care about unwrapping presents, or doesn’t connect with gifts the way the world expects.

In this episode, Shannon shares:— Why your child isn’t “missing out”— Why practical gifts absolutely count— The freedom in skipping wrapping paper— How to talk to grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings— Real-life scenarios you’ll face—and how to handle them— How to release the guilt and drop the pressure to have a “typical” holiday— What embracing YOUR version of Christmas can look and feel like

If the holidays bring up stress, comparison, or worry that you’re “doing it wrong,” this episode will bring relief and perspective. Your family’s Christmas gets to look the way you need it to—and yes, Mama, that is more than enough.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠
Get Details HERE

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠129. Getting a Grip on Escalating Behaviors⁠⁠

⁠⁠124. What to Do When They Say No (Special Education Edition)

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, host Shannon Urquiola continues her holiday series with a conversation every autism parent needs before the real chaos hits—what to do after you completely lose your lane.

Because no matter how hard you work on staying calm, holding boundaries, and choosing your lane… there will still be moments where you snap, shut down, or say somethingyou regret. Especially during the holidays.

Shannon also shares a behind-the-scenes update on writing her book and how revisiting the hardest moments of this journey has been both healing and really, really hard.

If even one idea from this episode helps you walk into the holidays with a little more grace for yourself and less pressure to “get it right,” that’s a win.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence

212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

This week, we’re continuing our holiday series with a conversation that every autism mom needs this time of year — learning how to stay in your lane when everything around you feels like chaos.

In this episode, Shannon shares real-life holiday scenarios that trigger overwhelm — the change in school routines, sensory overload, family expectations, and well-meaning relatives who just don’t get it — and walks you through practical ways to protect your peace and let go of what was never yours to control.

You’ll learn how to:

This season isn’t about doing it all — it’s about knowing what’s yours to hold and what you can release.
You’ll walk away with more peace, confidence, and clarity to navigate the holidays your way.

Plus, Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book — Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children.

Tune in for encouragement, strategies, and the reminder that you’re stronger than you think. 💙

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

We can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Want more support from a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

201. Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back

As the holidays approach, you’re probably already feeling the shift — routines change, emotions run high, and suddenly you find yourself “choosing your battles” more than usual. But what if it’s not really about choosing battles at all?

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast, Shannon dives deep into what’s really happening when you decide whether to enforce a boundary or let it go. You’ll learn how to tell the difference between flexibility and avoidance, why boundaries aren’t mean (they’re love in action), andhow to stay steady through the pushback that always comes with change.

Shannon shares real-life examples from her own journey with Jordan — from holiday meltdowns and unpredictable routines to learning when to hold firm and when to bend. You’ll walk away knowing that every decision you make isn’t about“getting it right,” it’s about knowing your child, trusting yourself, and choosing what truly matters in the moment.

So if the holidays tend to leave you feeling torn, guilty, or second-guessing yourself — this one’s for you. You’re not being inconsistent. You’re being strategic.

Stay tuned Next week for Part 2 — Episode 247. Staying in Your Lane: Reducing Holiday Stress and Letting Go of What’s Not Yours to Control.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠⁠
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠143. Social Expectations vs Autism Reality⁠

215. The Inclusion Debate: What Works, What Doesn't, and Why It Matters

If you’ve ever found yourself snapping, shutting down, or spiraling after your child’s behavior, this episode will help you understand why.

In this week’s episode, Shannon unpacks what’s really going on beneath those moments — when your nervous system takes over, your emotions run high, and you react before you can think.

You’ll learn how three hidden triggers — identity, social, and loss — show up in everyday life and why your child’s “bad behavior” isn’t the real problem. It’s what that moment triggers inside of you.

Shannon shares real-life examples from parents of toddlers, tweens, teens, and young adults, showing how these triggers can hijack your calm — and how to get it back.

She’ll walk you through how to name your triggers, calm your body, and respond from your values instead of your fears, so your child hears your guidance instead of your frustration.

PLUS — Shannon shares exciting news about her upcoming book, Loving Through The Unexpected; Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children. Follow along on social media for updates and sneak peeks!

🎧 Listen now — and remember, Mama: it’s not the behavior. It’s the trigger beneath it.

Together, we can overcome challenges and create a brighter future for our families.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our private membership.

Access exclusive support, training and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands. Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be! ⁠⁠ https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com ⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

143.Social Expectations vs Autism Reality

70. What Do You Make Their Behavior Mean

When your child says things that hurt—or acts out inways that feel personal—it’s easy to let those moments sink deep.
You love them, you give everything you have, and hearing “I hate you!” or watching a meltdown unfold can break your heart.

But what if those words and behaviors aren’t about youat all?

In this episode of the Not Your Average Autism Mompodcast, host Shannon Urquiola shares how to separate your child’s struggle from your sense of self. You’ll learn how to respond without taking their behaviors personally, and why doing so changes everything—for you andfor them.

Shannon shares her own experiences with her son Jordan,plus a story from one of our members that inspired this episode, to remind you that your child’s words in dysregulation are not reflections of yourparenting—they’re reflections of overwhelm.

You’ll also learn her simple P.A.C.E. Yourself tool tohelp you stay calm in hard moments: Pause your story, attend to safety, co-regulate, and explain later.

Member Bonus: Your printable “P.A.C.E. Yourself” visual guide is now available inside the Member Portal and in the FILES section of the Village Facebook group.

And in case you haven’t heard… Shannon is writing abook!Loving Through The Unexpected: Finding Strength, Surrender, and Acceptance Parenting Autistic Children is an honest, hopeful look at what it means to find peace and purpose when motherhood doesn’t go as planned.Follow us on social media for updates, sneak peeks, and release details!

🎙️Whether your child is yelling, refusing, or saying things that sting—this episode will help you hold steady, find compassion, and remember… It’s not about you.

🌟 Leave a Review:

If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership.

🎙️ Want more support in a community of moms who truly get it? Check out our private membership at www.notyouraverageautismmom.com for ongoing guidance, connection, and exclusive resources!

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us at ⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠74. You Cannot Fix All the Things ALL the Time

201.Breaking Barriers; Why Low Expectations Hold Our Kids Back