In this heartfelt episode of the Mother’s Guide Through Autism podcast, Brigitte Shipman and Maureen Brice are joined by special guest Kim Heinl to reflect on the powerful experience of the Recharge and Restore Retreat for Autism Moms—a weekend of deep connection, rest, and healing.
Kim shares her transformative journey of rediscovering self-care, how it changed her perspective as a mom, and the surprising ways it impacted her son, Maverick. Together, the three women open up about the emotional toll of parenting children with autism—and the power of community to restore hope, strength, and joy.
✨ Whether you're feeling exhausted, alone, or in need of connection, this episode will remind you that you're not alone—and that caring for yourself is caring for your child.
🔔 Plus, learn more about the launch of Chill & Chat—a new monthly membership where autism moms can gather for support, honest conversation, and practical tools to thrive.
Enjoy!
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Welcome & Introduction
01:08 Book Promotion and Podcast Introduction
01:28 Welcoming Guests and Setting the Scene
02:35 Retreat Experiences and Reflections
03:55 Emotional Impact and Community Building
07:37 The Power of Support and Self-Care
11:43 Continuing the Journey and Future Plans
25:45 Creating a Supportive Community for Autism Caregivers
26:21 Introducing the Members-Only Group
26:44 Monthly Meetings and Coaching Tools
27:07 The Importance of Shared Knowledge
27:34 Details of the Monthly Gatherings
29:10 Jonathan's Introduction and His Journey
30:26 The Emotional Support Gap in Autism Care
32:49 Continuing the Support Beyond the Retreat
35:46 Upcoming Events and How to Join
37:12 Sharing Wins and Personal Stories
41:31 Final Thoughts
🔗 Resources & Links
Learn more and join the Chill & Chat Membership:
https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/chillandchat
Maureen's Website:
https://hopedreambelieve.com/
Purchase my book A Mother's Guide Through Autism:
https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com/book
Sign up to get news and updates from me: https://www.mothersguidethroughautism.com
Theme song: "Look at the clouds" by Tristan Lohengrin
tristanlohengrin.bandcamp.com
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