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Pieces For My PuzzleAuthor: Nikki
Welcome to the Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where I, Nikki Shipp, invite you to join me on a journey through the intricacies of life as a wife to a dedicated police officer and a mother to an incredible autistic son.As a parent navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum, I understand firsthand the complexities and uncertainties that come with it. Through this podcast, I share my personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way.Pieces For My Puzzle is more than just a podcast; it's a beacon of hope and inspiration for parents and loved ones of special needs children. Whether seeking practical tips, a fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that you're not alone in this journey, this podcast is for you.Join me as we unravel the pieces of our puzzle together, finding strength, resilience, and, most importantly, a sense of community. Tune in for heartfelt discussions, uplifting stories, and the reassurance that there's always room for growth and joy amidst the challenges.Subscribe now and join our supportive community, where hope shines brightest, and every piece of the puzzle matters. Language: en-us Genres: Arts, Kids & Family, Parenting Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Advocacy in Action: Leadership & Family with Olivia Fryer
Episode 64
Thursday, 18 December, 2025
What happens when personal experience meets professionaldedication? On this episode, we are honored to welcome Olivia Fryer, theExecutive Director of the Autism Society of Greater Phoenix. Since 2014, Oliviahas been a tireless advocate for the disability community, a role deeplyinfluenced by her life as a mom to two sons, one of whom is an autistic AACuser.Olivia brings a powerful perspective to the conversation,blending her insights as a parent with her professional background atorganizations like Southwest Human Development, Arizona Autism United, andT.E.A.M. 4 Kids. A bilingual leader and recipient of the 2023 Gabe ZimmermanEmerging Champion Award, she shares how she is turning passion into tangiblecommunity action. Join us for a discussion on safety, sibling support, and thefuture of advocacy.Key Topics:A Mother’s Mission: Olivia shares how her personal journey raising an autistic son who uses AAC has shaped her compassionate approach to leadership and advocacy.Bridging Safety Gaps: We discuss the critical need for safety education and what led Olivia to become a certified instructor for programs like BE SAFE and Safety on the Spectrum.Supporting Siblings: As a Sibshops facilitator, Olivia offers unique insights into the sibling experience and shares practical ways families and communities can offer better support.Policy and Committees: From local commissions to national committees for the Autism Society of America, learn about the key issues Olivia is fighting to bring to the forefront right now.Advice for Emerging Leaders: Fresh off her recognition as an Emerging Champion, Olivia offers advice on how to turn a passion for service into sustainable change.Guidance for New Families: Looking ahead, Olivia shares what excites her most about her current work and leaves us with one essential piece of advice for families just starting their diagnosis journey.Resources Mentioned:Olivia Fryer at Autism Society of Greater PhoenixWebsite: https://phxautism.org/Phone Number: (480) 779-0899E-mail: olivia@Phxautism.orgEnjoying the show?If this conversation inspired you, please subscribe andleave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps usbring these important discussions to more listeners and empowers neurodivergentfamilies. Thank you!Connect With Us: § Followus on Instagram: @piecesformypuzzle§ Emailus: Info@piecesformypuzzle.com§ Learnmore: www.piecesformypuzzle.com§ Checkit out! We are one of the Top 35 Special Need Parenting Podcasts! https://podcast.feedspot.com/special_needs_parenting_podcasts/ If you













