Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)
Join thirteen-year-old Leta, an amazing tap dancer and the founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company, and her mom, Amanda, as they share insights into Leta's autistic life. This podcast delves into a variety of topics, from navigating the challenges of bullying in dance studios due to autism and dyslexia, to the journey of establishing a new nonprofit, to deep dives into the neurodiverse world and what it means to be “quirky.” Gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and the importance of acceptance and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals. The show explores personal experiences, including the phenomenon of autistic masking and burnout, offering a relatable perspective on what it's like to navigate the world as a neurodivergent person. With special guests ranging from Leta's dance family to experts in autism spectrum disorder, "Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)" celebrates the joy and challenges of life, all through the rhythm and resilience of tap dancing.
Episodes
Dr Barb is back to talk about her new book, "Unshakeable: Parenting through Autism With Love, Courage, and Purpose." (Ranked #101 on in Amazon's "Child Care" books.) Join us as we discuss the book, what Dr Barb went through to writing the book, how Dr Barb's daughter feels about the book, and, of course, talk a little about Carmel the Therapy Dog.
Join Leta and Amanda for a special (edited pre-recording) episode of Leta’s Tap Styles and My Autistic Life as we raise funds to try and save Leta’s nonprofit dance studio, Autistic Wings Dance Company. Special Guests Gayle Knowles (VP of Autistic Wings and Head of Dance Instruction) and Amber Schecter (Treasurer and Parent of two Autistic Wings dancers) join us to talk about what makes Autistic Wings Dance Company sp...
Friend of the podcast, Author Faith Jacobs, joins us to share her latest book about Mozart. This time it is a children’s book about Mozart’s puppy, and the life of what can only be described as one of Mozart’s closest companions. This new book is a companion novel for Faith’s “Faithfully Yours” adult historical fiction series about Mozart. Discover how Faith brings history to life for young readers, making classical m...
This episode was recorded live during our Giving Tuesday fundraiser for Autistic Wings Dance Company! Join co-hosts Leta (founder of Autistic Wings) and Amanda (CEO of Autistic Wings) as they share stories, discuss the impact of Autistic Wings, quickly talk about the upcoming Medicaid cuts, and rally support for an incredible cause.
In this episode:
- Learn about the mission and programs of Autistic Wings Dance Compan...
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michelle Lee Steiner as we explore what it really takes for neurodivergent students to succeed. Michelle shares her personal journey with learning disabilities, the challenges she faced in school, and the strategies that helped her thrive.
We discuss the importance of self-advocacy, supportive teachers, and embracing neurodiversity in education. Whether you’re a student, paren...
Michelle Choairy is back—this time launching her new brand, Special Education Concierge! In this episode, Michelle shares her journey from Simple Solutions for Complex Kids to becoming a dedicated advocate for families navigating special education. We talk about what real advocacy looks like, how parents can find the right support, and why early intervention and the right advocate can make all the difference.
Plus, we ...
Clinical psychologist Dr. David Helfand joins us to discuss love, autism, and what makes relationships work for neurodiverse couples. Real stories, expert tips, and honest conversation in under an hour!
Learn more or connect with Dr. Helfand at: https://marriagequest.org
Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)?
Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.c...
Join hosts Leta Rundell and Amanda Trisdale for a special episode celebrating the launch of Leta’s latest tap dance video—filmed on the beautiful greens of Antler Creek Golf Course! This episode drops alongside Autistic Wings Dance Company’s Colorado Gives fundraising campaign, supporting inclusive dance opportunities for autistic dancers.
Go behind the scenes with exclusive stories, bloopers, and heartfelt moments as ...
In this enlightening conversation, Raj Khedun and Marleen discuss the importance of breathing techniques in managing neurodiversity, particularly in individuals with autism and ADHD. They share personal stories of overcoming challenges through natural methods, emphasizing the role of breathing in unlocking healing hormones and achieving mental clarity. The discussion also highlights the significance of family dynamics...
In this episode, Amanda Trisdale and Leta Rundell discuss the importance of community support for Autistic Wings, a nonprofit dance studio for autistic dancers. They explore the challenges of fundraising, the significance of Colorado Gives Day, and the impact of donations on their mission to provide a dedicated space for their programs. The conversation highlights the need for consistent support and the creative ways ...
Join us for an honest conversation about autism, ADHD, and the power of early intervention. Our guest, developmental pediatrician Dr. Inyang Takon, shares expert insights on diagnosis, support, and what families and neurodiverse individuals really need. We discuss common myths, the importance of a strong care team, and practical advice for parents, educators, and anyone navigating neurodiversity. Whether you’re a pare...
Jennifer Kaufman joins us to share her journey as a grandparent to an autistic child. We explore the challenges and triumphs of grandparenting on the spectrum, offering insights and advice for families seeking to strengthen their bonds. Listen in for a thoughtful discussion on love, understanding, and support.
Find Jennifer Online At:
http://www.grandparentingonthespectrum.com
And
Http://www.firstresponseautism....
This Tap Tuesday, Amanda and Leta dig into the wild world of theater superstitions, backstage myths, and ghost stories—through the lens of autism, ADHD, and neurodivergent life.
We share our favorite superstitions, explore why these traditions matter for neurodivergent performers, and swap real backstage stories from the world of tap dance and theater.
Support our community! Leta and her teenaged coworker, Faith, are in...
In this conversation, Daniela Feldhausen, founder of Kids Up Reading Tutors, discusses the complexities of dyslexia and dysgraphia, emphasizing the importance of phonological skills in reading and writing. She addresses common misconceptions about dyslexia, the challenges faced by children with learning disabilities, and the current state of reading education in the U.S. The conversation highlights the need for specia...
Join Amanda and Leta as they explore accessibility, accommodations, and the quirky superstitions of theatre life—from ghost lights to stage manager lore. Discover what it’s like to perform as a neurodivergent dancer and how tradition shapes the stage.
🌐 Learn more: https://www.letatapstyles.com
💃 Leta’s Dance Studio: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org
🎙️ Want to be a guest? Send Amanda Trisdale a m...
In this engaging conversation, Nicola Knobel shares her experiences with late diagnoses of autism and ADHD, discussing the challenges and insights gained from parenting neurodivergent children. The discussion explores communication styles within neurodivergent families, the impact of strict parenting, and the importance of understanding differences in behavior. The conversation also touches on the effects of COVID on ...
Join Amanda and Leta for an honest, unfiltered conversation about living with autism and ADHD. In this episode, they break down myths, share personal stories, and discuss the realities of ableism, inclusion, and the importance of safe spaces—especially in the dance world. Whether you’re neurodivergent or want to better understand the neurodivergent experience, you’ll find insight, support, and community here.
Is talk therapy not working for you or your child? Discover how expressive arts therapy—using art, play, and creativity—can unlock healing for neurodivergent minds.
In this episode, therapist Emily Cox shares her expertise in working with autistic, ADHD, and otherwise neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults. We explore why traditional therapy sometimes falls short, and how creative approaches can make all the diff...
Go behind the scenes with Leta and Amanda as they share what it’s like to film a tap dance video as an autistic teen. From sensory challenges to creative breakthroughs, discover the real stories behind the tap shoes.
Follow Leta on
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letatapstyles
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@letatapstyles
Donate to Leta's nonprofit dance studio at https://onecau.se/_bt8p21
Author Faith Jacobs shares how writing about a neurodivergent Mozart helped her heal from grief and embrace her own autism. We discuss mental health, authentic representation, and the power of storytelling to inspire and connect.
Connect with Faith:
faithjacobsoffical | Instagram | Linktree
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