We’re excited to introduce our new podcast: ASD Advantage! Through this podcast, we’ll be shining a light on the individuals we support – their skills, accomplishments, challenges, and more.
This Month’s Episode: Entrepreneurship 101
This month, we had the privilege of speaking with Erin McWalters, the brains behind the StarSketchh brand. Through StarSketchh, Erin publishes YouTube and TikTok videos around artwork, self-motivation, and staying creative. Erin is also the published author of a Self-Care Workbook series and Trippy Adult Coloring Book series, which can both be found on Amazon. We discussed the origins of her small business, social media marketing, and her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start her own business.
Previous Episodes
Episode 001: Life at FEMA
In our first episode, we’ll be hearing from Andrew, a college graduate who worked as a logistics specialist for FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency). Andrew supported FEMA during several disaster responses, including Hurricane Ida, when he traveled to Louisiana to support recovery efforts. Hear from Andrew as he shares the stories of his first post-college job while being on the spectrum.
Episode 002: Sharing Our Stories
For this month’s episode of ASD Advantage, we spoke with Ryan Litchfield, an Assumption University graduate who finds power in public speaking. Ryan told us about how he got started in public speaking, along with the rewards gained from sharing his personal experiences with Autism. Ryan had some powerful insights to share – especially as Autism Awareness Month begins.
Episode 003: Volunteering 101
Want to feel inspired? Listen to this month’s episode of ASD Advantage. We spoke with Tyler Burns, a Quinsigamond Community College graduate who’s passionate about helping others. When he’s not busy working at Home Depot, he can be found volunteering at his local senior center and through his church. It was a pleasure to hear from Tyler about the importance and rewards of volunteering.
Episode 004: Being a Self-Advocate
This month, we had the privilege of speaking with Susan Purcell, a social worker and mother of two teenage boys who has been a member of HMEA’s Autism Resource Central for nearly a decade. Susan was diagnosed with cancer at the end of 2021, and she recently had a major surgery to remove the tumor. It was a traumatic experience that required Susan to advocate for herself from the moment she was diagnosed. We’re grateful that Susan took the time to share her story, and we think autistic and neurotypical individuals alike can learn from her experience.