In this episode of The Inclusion Bites Podcast, Joanne Lockwood and guest Crystal Jordan explore what it means to "redefine normal" within the context of autism and neurodiversity. Crystal, an autism advocate and author, shares her journey of turning her personal experiences into a mission for inclusion and empowerment. Joanne and Crystal delve into the challenges and triumphs of advocating for autistic individuals, especially those who are nonverbal, and discuss how societal perceptions of "normal" often fall short of embracing the individuality and potential of neurodiverse individuals.

Crystal Jordan is based in Atlanta, Georgia, and is a dedicated autism advocate, philanthropist, and author. Inspired by her son Zachariah, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of two, Crystal has devoted her life to creating a world where neurodiversity is embraced. She founded Zachariah's World, a brand that focuses on autism awareness and inclusion through books, apparel, and advocacy. Joanne and Crystal discuss how Crystal's advocacy journey began and the importance of creating environments where autistic individuals can thrive. Crystal's work is driven by her desire to ensure that her son and others like him can lead fulfilling lives with access to education, employment, and societal acceptance.

Throughout the episode, Joanne and Crystal tackle issues such as the importance of individualized education plans (IEPs), the role of advocacy in securing necessary services, and the need for more resources and support for autistic individuals and their families. They also highlight the everyday challenges and rewards of raising an autistic child, including finding joy in small milestones and fostering independence. Crystal shares humorous and heartwarming stories about her son Zachariah, shedding light on his unique personality and the ways he navigates the world.

A key takeaway from this episode is the critical role of advocacy in creating inclusive environments for neurodiverse individuals. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by autistic individuals and their families and the importance of pushing for systemic changes that promote acceptance and inclusion. Crystal's story is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive, regardless of their neurodiversity. The episode encourages listeners to become allies and actively support the cause of inclusion through understanding, patience, and advocacy.

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