Send us a text Michelle’s back! In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life), join Leta, Amanda, and returning guest Michelle for a lively, laughter-filled conversation about special needs parenting, advocacy, and real solutions for complex kids. We dive into IEPs, 504s, and the everyday realities of raising and supporting neurodiverse children, with plenty of personal stories and practical advice. Michelle shares her expertise as a mentor and advocate for families navigating spec...
Aug 15, 2025•45 min
Send us a text (Pre-recorded) Leta and Amanda head to Autistic Wings for a Special Tap Tuesday episode. This week we discuss Autistic Wings new Small Business Partnership Program, and their new Individual Partnership Levels. Leta, Amanda, - and shouted comments from Gayle Knowles - also talk about this amazing autistic-led dance studio for autistic dancers in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Help Keep Autistic Wings' doors open by joining their individual donor program https://onecau.se/_bt8p21 Are y...
Aug 12, 2025•31 min
Send us a text This episode explores the joys and challenges of blending neurospicy families—where autism, ADHD, and authenticity are part of everyday life. Join us for honest conversations, laughter, and practical insights on parenting, partnership, and living life out loud. Learn more about our guests and find resources at: https://www.letatapstyles.com 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.com/hos...
Aug 08, 2025•47 min
Send us a text This isn’t just another episode. It’s a call for help. Autistic Wings Dance Company has given Leta and so many others a place to belong, to move, and to be seen. Now, that safe space is at risk of closing its doors. Listen as Leta shares what Autistic Wings means to her, and why your support matters now more than ever. If you believe in the power of community, inclusion, and the arts, please join us in keeping this dream alive. Support Autistic Wings: • Donate: https://www.onecau....
Aug 05, 2025•44 min
Send us a text Marlene Sharp joins us again this week as we go beyond the script to explore the world of autism in the Hollywood. From her positions on Autism in Entertainment and Spectrum Labatory, Marlene is a passionate advocate for autistic actors. This week we talk about the challenges and triumphs of championing autistic talent. From breaking down barriers in casting to creating more inclusive environments on and off stage, Marlene shares her insights, experiences, and the importance of au...
Aug 01, 2025•56 min
Send us a text Tune in as Leta shares her personal strategies for navigating the high-energy, sensory-rich world of tap festivals. These spaces are designed with neurotypical dancers in mind, not neurodiverse autistic dancers. From finding quiet corners to using headphones and building connections with supportive friends, Leta opens up about what it takes to not just survive but truly enjoy these vibrant events as a neurodiverse dancer. This conversation isn’t about changing the festival. It’s a...
Jul 29, 2025•43 min
Send us a text Jeaneen Tang, author of "Play Dumb and Sabotage" and one of our favorite Speech and Language Pathologist, makes her return to the podcast! Jeaneen’s unique perspective as a SLP and a mother of a child with speech delays formed the building blocks of her book. We dive into practical advice, personal stories, and the importance of embracing different ways of thinking and connecting. Discover more about Jeaneen and her work at playdumbandsabotage.com . Learn more about us at letataps...
Jul 25, 2025•43 min
Send us a text Join Leta—autistic dancer and tap queen—as she shares her quirky, upbeat guide to surviving a Hollywood video shoot! From sensory challenges (socks, wires, and costumes!) to snack hacks and set chaos, Leta dishes out real talk and laughter for dancers, creatives, and anyone who loves a behind-the-scenes adventure. Ready to tap into the fun? Check out more: Website: letatapstyles.com Support Autistic Wings Dance Company: Fundraiser Link Want to be a guest? Apply via PodMatch (Leta’...
Jul 22, 2025•32 min
Send us a text Join us this week as we welcome back our friend and passionate advocate, Leanne Pritchett. Leanne shares real-life stories, practical tips, and her unique perspective as an educator and accessibility consultant. From IEP Meeting tips to how to make small changes that help the visually impaired navigate the world a little easier, this episode has tips for everyone. Leanne's podcast can be found here http://swellcast.com/thems.leanne You can find more about Leanne here http://linktr...
Jul 18, 2025•55 min
Send us a text Step into the world of Leta, autistic tap dancer and founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company, as she prepares to fly out to LA. In “Leta's Guide to Surviving Planes and Panic (And Hiding Stuffies from Mom),” Leta shares her real-life strategies for navigating airports, managing sensory overload, and keeping her beloved stuffies close (even when Mom’s not looking). With humor, honesty, and a dancer’s determination, this episode offers a heartfelt glimpse into traveling with autism,...
Jul 15, 2025•31 min
Send us a text Blue J Cleaning isn’t your typical cleaning company. Founder Janet Shultz shares how her business hires autistic employees—not out of charity, but to build a team held to the highest standards. Discover how Blue J fosters a culture of respect, belonging, and opportunity, where every employee is treated the way anyone would want to be treated. Learn more about Blue J Cleaning by visiting their website https://www.bluejcleaningfranchise.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (...
Jul 11, 2025•50 min
Send us a text What happens when your favorite dancewear company sends you a Christmas Present in July? A pair custom designed with an autistic flair? You do a podcast all about how cool the shoes are! Join us as Amanda and Leta share the excitement, talk about the design, and discuss what makes these shoes so special. If you want your own autistic themed tap shoes, contact LeAnn Kay at Styles in Motion: https://stylesinmotionllc.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life...
Jul 08, 2025•31 min
Send us a text Join us as we sit down with Russell van Bracklen, also known as The Dyslexia Professor, to discuss his unique approach to dyslexia tutoring. Russell shares insights from his experience working with learners and offers practical strategies for support. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or student, this episode provides valuable perspectives on navigating dyslexia. For more information about Russell, visit his website https://dyslexiaclasses.com/ Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap S...
Jul 04, 2025•38 min
Send us a text Join Leta at Hollywood TapFest for tap dance, cake, and good vibes! In this episode of “Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life),” Leta and Amanda share festival stories, backstage laughs, and all the excitement of the tap community. Whether you’re a dancer, a fan, or just love a good festival story, you’ll find something to enjoy. Learn all about Hollywood TapFest, register for this year's festival, or sign up to be the first to know about future festivals by visiting https://www...
Jul 01, 2025•39 min
Send us a text What happens when you have two neurospicy moms and two neurospicy daughters on the same podcast episode? Insanity! Dr Kristen Williamson and her daughter join Amanda and Leta to discuss what it is like living in a neurospicy home, being diagnosed with autism, the differences between the ADHD mind and the autistic mind, and a little bit about masking. (Of course we're going to talk about masking with Dr Kristen.) Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)? Send ...
Jun 27, 2025•27 min
Send us a text Join us this week as Leta shares how headphones, a very simple accommodation, help her navigate anxiety and find the strength to perform —both in the stage and beyond. From performance jitters to everyday challenges, discover the power of understanding, support, and a good pair of headphones. Whether you’re a dancer, parent, or advocate, this episode offers inspiration and real talk about neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and the little things that make a big difference. Want to be a...
Jun 17, 2025•26 min
Send us a text Ever wonder what your child is really trying to tell you—especially when words aren’t working? In this episode of “Leta’s Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life),” we get real about the ups, downs, and surprises of raising neurodivergent kids. We’re joined by Samantha Foot, a board-certified music therapist and host of the “Every Brain Is Different” podcast. Samantha shares her own stories and hard-won wisdom about meltdowns, sensory overload, and why “just discipline” doesn’t cut it fo...
Jun 13, 2025•56 min
Send us a text You may know Michelle Choairy as the amazing woman behind Wisdom4Complex Kids and her THRIVE mentorship program. Maybe you recognize her from her frequent appearances on our show, sharing her experiences raising a Complex Kid. However, today, we peel back that “Mom Veil.” This conversation is all about Michelle herself. Join us as Michelle opens up about her own story—from her very first time slipping on ballet slippers in Brazil to her journey to the US to dance professionally. D...
Jun 10, 2025•55 min
Send us a text We convinced Rob Delena to join us again here on “Leta’s Tap Styles (And my Autistic Life)”. (Without Ryan, who was busy celebrating his birthday and rock climbing.) Join us as Rob shares more of his journey as a parent navigating the special needs school system and mental health care with Ryan. Rob talks candidly about the challenges, tough choices, and lessons learned as he fought for his child’s happiness and well-being. And, of course, there are some stories about Rob and Ryan...
Jun 06, 2025•55 min
Send us a text Get ready for ruffles, rants, and sensory wins as only Leta can do! In this episode, Leta and Amanda count down Leta’s top three recital costumes based off Leta’s Sensory Issues—sharing laughs, stories, and what makes a costume truly sensory-friendly for Leta. Whether you love dance, live with sensory issues, or just want a peek behind the curtain of dancing with autism, this one’s for you! Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles? Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch, here: ...
Jun 03, 2025•44 min
Send us a text Ever feel like you’re wearing a mask just to get through the day? Dr Kristen drops by the show again to discuss autistic masking, why we do it, and how it can sneakily lead to autistic burnout. You know you’re in for laughs, honest moments, and a few “aha!” realizations whenever Dr Kristen stops by the show. Hit play and let’s get real—together! You can find Kristen all over the web Website: https://www.empowermindsolutionsllc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwi...
May 30, 2025•44 min
Send us a text Join us in this entertaining episode as Leta and Amanda explore the creative chaos behind the latest SoleTalk video choreographed by Chloe Arnold, famously known for 'Syncopated Ladies.' Leta goes a step further and uses her imagination, turning this brief video into a full-length feature film in her head. The conversation is filled with laughter, anecdotes about being part of SoleTalk while navigating autism and ADHD, behind-the-scenes stories from the set, and wild brainstorming...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 4 min
Send us a text Join Leta, Amanda, and guest Jason Heffler on the Leta’s Tap Styles this Friends’ Friday. Jason joins us to discuss his children’s book, Tongue Tied . Tongue Tied is the story of Cadence, a chameleon who is shy and is often bullied for her speech impediment. Jason based Cadence’s story on his experiences with stuttering and bullying. Through personal stories, we explore the effects of bullying, and why speech impediments don’t need to be “fixed”, but need to be understood and acce...
May 23, 2025•57 min
Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, hosts Leta and Amanda welcome back Jennifer Celeste Briggs. Jennifer joins us to discuss the transformative Son Rise Program, and how it helped her with her daughter, Sarah. This enriching conversation goes in-depth into how the Son Rise Program helped Jennifer nurture Sarah's unique needs, celebrate Sarah’s quirks, and foster a loving and humorous connection. We delve into the importance of having a village to support parents and their autist...
May 16, 2025•58 min
Send us a text In this episode of the Leta’s Tap Styles Podcast, Leta and Amanda look at Leta’s Five Least Favorite Costumes, and the roll Leta’s complex sensory issues had on the list. They discuss the lack of understanding and knowledge most dance teachers have about sensory issues, and how those can affect a dancer’s ability to perform onstage. They touch on the challenges faced by autistic kids in traditional dance environments, emphasizing the importance of understanding the spectrum of sen...
May 13, 2025•48 min
Send us a text Join Amanda and Leta sit down with Kara Nash, a registered nurse who is also autistic, to discuss various aspects of autism from a medical perspective. From the importance of stimming and the misunderstanding of autistic meltdowns to the flaws in school systems and special education, the episode covers a wide range of significant topics. Kara shares her expertise on why typical punitive measures are ineffective and harmful for autistic individuals, and the discussion delves the ne...
May 09, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Send us a text In this episode, Amanda and Leta delve into the complexities of Imposter Syndrome, and how it often affects dance students. They discuss how dance is often touted as a confidence booster for children, yet many dancers, including Leta, struggle with feelings of not belonging, not being perfect, and wanting to hide in the shadows. Tears are mixed with dark humor as they dive deep into Leta’s personal struggles with imposter syndrome. Want to come on the show to talk about tap dancin...
May 06, 2025•50 min
Send us a text Join us as we dive deep into the complexities of dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia with special guest, Jess Arce, owner of 3D Learning Experts Tutoring. Jess, who has extensive experience with neurodiversity including her own family, helps us dymystify dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia. She explains what these learning differences actual are, common misconceptions, and effective teaching strategies. We also discuss homeschooling, accommodations in education, and the impact...
May 02, 2025•1 hr
Send us a text In this episode of Leta’s Tap Styles, we talk about how anyone can dance. It doesn’t matter who you are, you can dance. We talk a bit about some of those people who were told they couldn’t dance or sing, or play a guitar. Yet they became some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. We also thank Autistic Wings Dance Company’s April Donors and Supporters. And we finally get to tell the world that So Danca is one of the studio’s supporters! We end with a call for everyon...
Apr 29, 2025•38 min
Send us a text In this conversation, Amanda Trisdale, Rebecca Prejean, and Leta Rundell discuss the challenges and experiences of raising neurodivergent children, particularly in educational settings. They share personal stories about bullying, the importance of understanding and patience from educators, and the impact of the pandemic on therapy and social interactions for children with autism. The discussion emphasizes the need for advocacy, community support, and the importance of treating neu...
Apr 25, 2025•59 min
