In this episode, we sit down with Valerie Herskowitz, founder of The Chocolate Spectrum—a unique business and training program providing meaningful work opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. Valerie shares her journey as a therapist and mother, the inspiration behind the program, and how it’s transforming lives through chocolate-making. Listen as we explore topics like:

• The importance of honoring a child’s authenticity and individuality.
• Building inclusive workspaces and creating post-high school opportunities.
• Valerie’s vision for expanding The Chocolate Spectrum to better serve the community.

Discover how The Chocolate Spectrum is making a difference—one chocolate at a time. Plus, learn how your support helps fund this impactful initiative.

Visit The Chocolate Spectrum Website Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Valarie Herskowitz, Founder of The Chocolate Spectrum

(03:00) Misconceptions about hiring neurodivergent individuals

(05:30) Adapting the workspace

(08:40) Educating the customers

(11:45) Impact on the employees

(15:50) How being a parent influenced The Chocolate Spectrum

(20:50) Advice for families to prepare their children for life skill and work skills

(27:25) Advice for employers to hire more neurodivergent individuals

(31:40) Advice for caregivers

(36:15) The future of The Chocolate Spectrum

In this insightful episode, we explore how caregivers, educators, and guardians can recognize signs of exploitation and create safe environments for vulnerable individuals. From sudden behavioral changes to online red flags, we discuss the subtle indicators that something may be amiss.

Our guest shares expert advice on fostering open communication, teaching the difference between safe and unsafe interactions, and addressing the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. We also examine the importance of early education about boundaries, healthy relationships, and online safety to prevent exploitation before it begins.

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or advocate, this episode provides actionable steps to help you identify potential risks and empower those in your care.

Resources Mentioned

Timestamps:

(00:00) School updates

(02:40) Introducing Madison Zivitski, Selah Freedom

(04:40) Statistics about human trafficking and exploitation

(12:20) Red flags

(18:10) Signs caregivers could miss

(26:00) Safe versus un-safe secrets

(31:30) Tools and resources

(42:20) Final thoughts

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.

In this episode, Dawn Wisniewski, a board-certified behavior analyst, shares practical strategies for helping children with sensory sensitivities thrive during the holidays. From navigating bright lights and loud music to managing disruptions in routine, Don provides insights on:

• Preparing children for new sensory experiences with proactive planning.
• Handling travel challenges and creating a “magic bag” for comfort.
• Supporting children during gift-giving and social interactions.
• Empowering parents and caregivers with self-care tips to reduce stress.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or educator, this episode is packed with tips to make the holiday season more joyful and less overwhelming for everyone.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:45) introducing Dawn Wisniewski

(04:00) New sensory experiences

(08:15) Navigating the disruption to routine

(12:12) Preparing for travel

(17:10) Preparing for gift giving and receiving

(20:20) Stress management for caregivers

(23:40) Preparing for new foods

Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.