Let's Talk About Autism in Hmonglish

Join me for my Season Three FINALE as I chat with my Japanese BCBA colleague, Shino Welch. Discovering the commonalities in our shared Asian heritage and in how we approach disseminating information about ABA on a daily basis while forming a strong base for how to bring this information back to our respective cultural communities has been such a joy for me.

This conversation addresses a listener's questions about advocating for their child who is neurodivergent in the school environment. Inevitably, Cyndy and I also chat about IEPs and how to navigate tricky situations where you learn how to become your child's best advocate.

When this Hmong sister briefly mentioned about policies during our LIVE this summer, I knew I had to bring her on the podcast and dive deeper! Join me as I learn about the various roles and careers that our Hmong sisters are branching out into as we continue to endeavor towards the same goal of supporting our Hmong communities.

Join me as I geek out and recline into my more familiar and comfortable seat as a student while listening to Dr. Bee Xiong-Vang break down the nuances of autism for the Hmong community. Bridging this gap between a lack of terminology and cultural understanding of developmental disabilities will take focused efforts of many disciplines and I'm so honored to have this opportunity to bring this conve...

Join me as Mai Nhia sheds light on her experiences of seeking an autism diagnosis as an adult previously diagnosed with ADHD. Ua tsaug os, niam hluas- you inspire me and I look forward to the day when the adult Hmong autism community that you dream of is a reality.

In Part Two, Naree and I discuss the cultural understanding/misunderstandings of autism and the challenges of guiding your autistic teen through puberty.

Join us as my guest Naree Thao, a licensed professional counselor, and I chat about the challenges of finding a healthy work and home life balance.

My hope for Season 1 of the Let's talk about Autism in Hmonglish Podcast was to lay down the foundation for what autism awareness may look like in the Hmong community. I also wanted to introduce the core professionals that families may encounter while receiving autism services. I will be forever grateful to all of my guests who agreed to share their stories so that together we can all help to...

Service coordination is such a valuable asset and resource for all families. Tune in as Crystal shares how Milwaukee County Children, Youth & Family Services supports their community. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a...

This next episode started with intentions of discussing an educational versus medical autism diagnosis and evolved into two moms simply sharing and connecting. As mothers, it is so helpful to find your tribe who understands you and your journey. On the heels of Mother's Day, I wish all mothers all the love and support you need. I encourage you to make some time for yourself as we cannot pour f...

Learning how to navigate health and school systems is already challenging. As a refugee, this is compounded by the effects of generational trauma, in particular our parents' generation's sense of stigma and mistrust of government. I'm so grateful to have my dear friend Youa join me for this tough conversation on how to advocate for your child, even if it means tearing down barriers set...

Early Intervention is a program for children ages 18-months to 3-years old. Your child does not need a diagnosis to receive early intervention. Due to the stigmatic nature of developmental disability within the Hmong culture, seeking early intervention is not often explored. This episode discusses how early intervention can be helpful for the families that feel early intervention would be benefici...

Join me as I welcome Dr. Alyssa Kaying Vang to share more with me about her work as a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience serving diverse populations. You'll hear her response to the much asked question of "What is Autism in Hmong?" by Hmong parents and professionals alike. We discuss her holistic approach to therapy and why Hmong researchers in the field is much n...

Join me as I chat with parent advocacy powerhouse Zoua Vang about her efforts to champion for her daughter Alyssa. Meet Alyssa: bit.ly/40huQrI ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, d...

Join me as I chat with Mary Moua, a fellow Hmong woman BCBA, about providing culturally responsive care to the Hmong autism community. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis...

Join me as I chat with Mao Sanders about her family's decision to uproot from their hometown and relocate thousands of miles away to secure a safe and appropriate education for her son Jacob. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substi...

Join me as I chat with Mai Green Moua, an Occupational Therapist, about how occupational therapy can support individuals living with autism. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, dia...

Join me on this BONUS episode where I dive deep into mental health awareness and wellness when it comes to the caregivers of individuals living with autism. My guest for this episode is Shoua Lor, a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) and owner of Embracing Possibility Counseling, PLLC. This episode is sponsored by the North Carolina Hmong Women's Association, Inc. ----- CONTEN...

Join me as I chat with parents Ying Hang and Kang Xiong-Hang about their journey to accepting their child's autism diagnosis. ----- CONTENT WARNING: This podcast episode mentions suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know is suicidal, please contact your physician, go to your local ER, or contact the suicide prevention hotline. Call or Text 988 to the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline anytime,...

Join me as I chat with Kim Moua Townsley about her journey to becoming to a BCBA. She sits for the boards this month and I'm stoked to have her join the league of Hmong BCBAs! ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substitu...

Join me as I chat with Mao Lee about her family's journey through seeking ABA services for her 4 year old son. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Alwa...

Join me as I chat with Linda Vang Lor, a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), about her experiences working with individuals living with Autism. She brings so much compassion and care to this important role as an ABA service provider. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information...

Join me as I chat with my dear cousin Kristen Lor about her family's journey through her son's autism diagnosis. She shares how her faith played a role in how she approached seeking treatment. ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not i...

Join me as I chat with Lou Vang, a fellow Hmong sister who specializes in speech pathology. Lou brings over a decade of experience to the table and is my fellow Early Intervention supporter! ----- DISCLAIMER “Let’s talk about autism in Hmonglish” (the "Podcast") provides educational content related to autism and related topics. The information presented in this Podcast is not intended as...