Hopes, Fears, and a Podcast Mic

Reality Check

When your child is neurodivergent, some of these hopes can come with roadblocks or even barriers. If you’re like me, you throw yourself into championing your child, finding ways to help them manage challenges, and guiding them toward their own version of happiness and success.

But sometimes reality creeps in. You start to wonder: What will truly be possible for them, especially when you are no longer there to advocate?

The Podcast That Wasn't

Last summer, I was invited onto a podcast to talk about parenting neurodivergent kids and my coaching work with parents. I met the host, liked her immediately, and happily accepted. The plan was to have an open, unscripted conversation, which felt comfortable and natural. She was warm, welcoming, and put me completely at ease.

Maybe a little too at ease.

I found myself speaking openly about my concerns for my daughter as she chased her dream of stage managing on Broadway. I discussed how she might be misunderstood or struggle with group dynamics, and how she would be accepted as an autistic person. I was honest and vulnerable. I didn’t hold back my fears or soften my words.

When I listened to the episode after it aired, I panicked. I didn’t hear the proud, unwavering champion I strive to be. Instead, I worried I had been disloyal, especially since my daughter was having a tough summer. Her internship had turned out to be much more difficult than expected, and she was dealing with a deep depression.

My mind spiraled. What if she heard the episode and was hurt by it? What if she thought I doubted her?

I called the host and asked her to remove it. She understood and graciously took it down, even though it had already been shared widely.

Fast Forward to This Summer

My daughter and I were driving when she asked about the podcasts I had been on. I told her about that episode, my hesitation, and my fear that I had planted seeds of doubt. She listened quietly and then said, “I might face challenges because of how my brain works, and that also makes me good at what I do. It’s possible to have dreams and recognize the limits of reality at the same time without being unsupportive.” Then, she encouraged me to see about making the podcast available again.

Talk about a proud mom moment.

So, I did.

As parents, we believe in our children fiercely, but it’s okay to let questions and realities seep in. The questioning itself is not what defines us. What matters most is how we respond.

Have you ever found yourself questioning the possibilities for your child? I’d love to hear your story.

If you’d like to hear the conversation that started this whole journey, you can listen here: Faith on Friday with Rikki Smith.