In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I wrap up stories from my recent Colorado hunting trip and delve into the importance of giving yourself grace as a parent—especially when raising a special needs child. Through personal stories, I discuss the parallels between hunting and fatherhood, from learning patience to honoring personal convictions. After a challenging experience where I chose not to take a shot at an elk due to ethical considerations, I came back home to face the complex reality of parenting Wyatt and the unexpected waves of stress that can come with daily life.

I reflect on the need for flexibility and understanding, both with our children and with ourselves. Each moment requires a unique approach, and as parents, it’s essential to recognize that things may not always go as planned. This episode encourages all parents to acknowledge their limits, celebrate their efforts, and embrace their humanity.

• Knowing When to Take Your Shot: Recognize when to act and when to pause—whether in hunting or parenting. Making decisions based on what feels right can prevent regret and promote peace.
• The Power of Self-Compassion: Parenting a special needs child can test our patience and resilience, but it's vital to practice self-compassion, even when things don’t go as planned.
• Learning from Experience: Just as hunting requires ethical and personal boundaries, parenting also benefits from understanding and respecting our values and limitations.
• Handling Stressful Days: Some days may feel like setbacks, but taking a breath and resetting is a healthy way to manage moments of frustration.

If you found value in this episode, please share it with others who might benefit from these insights. Reach out with your own experiences at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com, or visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more episodes and resources.

Today, I reflect on powerful lessons learned from a hunting trip in Colorado and how they apply to parenting, especially as a parent of a special needs child. I share a story about my friend’s perseverance in hunting and how that same resilience is essential in parenting, where the “prizes” are small but monumental milestones, like Wyatt learning to take himself to the bathroom.

I discuss the importance of avoiding rigid timelines for our children’s growth, especially in a world that can sometimes push parents to compare or rush progress. Instead, I encourage embracing each child’s individual pace. Through my experiences, I hope to inspire parents to persevere through the hard times and celebrate every small victory as it comes.

• The Power of Perseverance: Whether it’s in hunting or parenting, resilience is essential. Pushing through the hard moments often leads to breakthroughs.
• Avoid Time Constraints: Putting rigid timelines on your child’s development can create unnecessary stress and disappointment. Celebrate their unique progress, however small.
• Every Milestone Counts: For special needs children, even small achievements are major victories. Cherish each step forward as they grow at their own pace.
• Supporting Each Other: Surround yourself with a community that understands and shares your journey, and don’t hesitate to reach out when you need it.

If this episode resonates with you or if you know a parent who could use some encouragement, please share it! Feel free to reach out to me with your thoughts and experiences at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com. You can also visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more episodes and resources to support your journey.

In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I recorded from a hunting trip in Colorado and discussed how anxieties and fears can drain our energy before an event even starts. I also shared personal struggles with long road trips, family dynamics, and the exhaustion that comes with balancing personal needs with caring for my son, Wyatt, who is on the autism spectrum.

I emphasize the importance of embracing each new day as a fresh start. Through pep talks, faith, and practical strategies, I discuss how we can better manage our stress and stop worrying about what might go wrong. Whether dealing with a family event, an unexpected breakdown on the road, or just the daily grind, I encourage listeners to focus on the present and the small, meaningful moments like watching the sunrise.

Ultimately, this episode is about finding peace in life’s challenges and learning to protect your energy for the people who matter most—your family.

• The Power of Pep Talks: It’s essential to give yourself mental encouragement when facing stressful situations. Whether it’s an anxiety-inducing road trip or a difficult family gathering, a positive mindset can help you push through.
• Anxiety and Control: Sometimes, we stress about things we can’t control, like road conditions or our child’s behavior at family events. Accepting that not everything is in our control can ease that anxiety.
• Family and Energy Protection: Protecting your family and your energy is vital. You may need to set boundaries at family events or decide to skip certain activities for your own well-being.
• Embracing New Days: Every day is a fresh opportunity. Whether it’s dealing with a hard day or feeling anxious about tomorrow, there’s always a chance for something positive and new.
• Finding Peace in Small Moments: Simple actions, like watching the sunrise, can remind us that every day is a gift. These moments help reset our minds and prepare us for what’s ahead.

If this episode resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Whether you're dealing with similar challenges, have advice, or need to share your own journey, let's connect and support each other.

You can reach me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com or visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more resources and episodes.

In this episode I take a deep dive into how diet changes have impacted our autism journey with Wyatt. From going gluten-free to cutting out dairy and sugar, I share our personal experiences and the significant changes we’ve seen in Wyatt’s behavior and overall health. I also talk about the importance of finding the right doctor, understanding gut health, and using natural supplements like magnesium to help manage stress and anxiety, both for Wyatt and for myself as a parent.

Throughout the episode, I emphasize the critical role that diet and nutrition can play in addressing autism-related challenges. I highlight the common issues children with autism face—like gut inflammation and yeast overgrowth—and how removing certain foods has helped Wyatt feel more comfortable and calm. While the process wasn’t easy, I encourage parents to explore these dietary changes, as the results can make a huge difference.

• Diet and Autism: Removing gluten, dairy, and sugar from Wyatt’s diet helped alleviate behavioral issues like hyperactivity and agitation, and improved his digestive health.
• Magnesium for Stress Relief: Introducing magnesium cream has been a game-changer for managing Wyatt’s stress and helping him sleep better at night. It’s also helped me cope with the stress of parenting.
• Gut Health is Crucial: Gut issues, like leaky gut and yeast overgrowth, are common in children with autism. Managing these through dietary changes and supplements can improve both physical and behavioral symptoms.
• Dairy-Free Benefits: Cutting out dairy has reduced Wyatt’s discomfort and agitation, leading to fewer meltdowns and better overall behavior.
• Trial and Error: Every child is different, and dietary changes require patience and experimentation. What works for one child may not work for another, but it’s worth exploring these changes for potential improvements.

If you’re considering dietary changes for your child or have already tried them, I’d love to hear your experiences! Feel free to reach out and share your thoughts. You can contact me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com or visit spectrumincamouflage.com for more information and resources.

In this episode, I’m opening up about the real-life challenges of parenting a child with autism and how tough it can be to navigate modern lifestyle expectations. From the outside, social media can make it seem like everyone’s living a perfect life—taking vacations, going to the zoo, and enjoying picture-perfect moments. But for families like ours, just going to a county fair or a football game can feel overwhelming.

I share how we’ve learned to find joy in the simple things. Whether it’s a backyard sprinkler, a four-wheeler ride, or just playing chase in the yard, the best memories we’ve made are when I’m fully present with the kids—no matter how big or small the activity is. I’ve realized that letting go of the pressure to keep up with everyone else has allowed me to focus on what really matters: the love and laughter shared with my kids, whether they’re typical or non-typical.

• Let go of lifestyle expectations and embrace what works for your family.
• Simple moments like backyard fun or quiet time can create the happiest memories for kids.
• Your child loves you for who you are and doesn’t need extravagant experiences to feel joy.
• Don’t compare your family’s journey to others on social media—every family is unique.
• Finding ways to connect with your kids, even in the smallest ways, creates lasting bonds.

Thanks so much for listening! If this episode hit home for you, I’d love it if you shared it with someone who might need to hear it. Remember, it’s not about where you go or what you do—it’s about being present and finding joy in each moment. Feel free to visit spectrumincamouflage.com or email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I open up about the real challenges of navigating the school system while raising an autistic child. From the early days of preschool, dealing with mixed diagnoses, and the ups and downs of special education, I share personal stories of our journey with Wyatt. I talk about the importance of advocating for your child and how essential it is to communicate effectively with teachers and family members. I also dive into our frustrations with COVID, homeschooling, and why focusing on Wyatt's health is our priority over traditional academics.

Throughout the episode, I reflect on the powerful role that therapy and early intervention play in our children's development, the struggles of family dynamics, and the importance of setting boundaries when others don’t understand the unique challenges of raising a special needs child. It’s an honest look at the emotional and practical aspects of autism parenting and how vital it is to protect your family, even if it means hurting others’ feelings along the way.

I also emphasize the need for building a strong support system—whether it’s family, friends, or strangers who step up to help in unexpected ways. We’re all in this together, and it’s okay to admit when things are tough. Growth comes through hardship, and my goal is to share our experiences so you know you’re not alone on this journey.

• Advocacy is Key: As a parent, you need to be your child’s voice, especially in school, where it's easy for them to be misunderstood or labeled.
• Therapy First, Not Medication: We’ve found success in focusing on therapy, especially early interventions like gut health, detoxes, and supplemental changes, rather than jumping straight to medication.
• Family Dynamics Can Be Tough: Navigating family relationships is challenging when others don’t fully understand autism. It’s okay to set boundaries and hurt feelings if it’s in the best interest of your child.
• Guard Your Community: Surround yourself with people who truly support you, whether they’re family or friends. Value those who stay and understand your child’s needs.
• It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed: This journey is hard, but it's important to remember that growth comes through challenges. You’re not alone, and we can all find strength together.

I’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re dealing with similar challenges, have advice, or just need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out. Let’s support each other through this journey.

You can email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com, and don’t forget to visit our website at spectrumincamouflage.com.

In this episode of Spectrum in Camouflage, I dive into the balancing act of family life, raising an autistic child, and finding time for my personal passion—hunting. I share an honest and raw reflection on a recent hunting trip that I almost didn’t take because of the demands of caring for my son, Wyatt. Struggling with guilt, responsibility, and the need for personal space, I open up about how hunting brings me peace and how my wife’s strength has allowed me to find moments of solitude. But, the journey isn't without its challenges. I talk candidly about the ongoing struggles Wyatt faces, including difficulties at school, and how these stresses ripple through our family.

Ultimately, this episode is about the importance of stepping up for your family when they need you most, but also recognizing when you need to recharge. I speak openly about the highs and lows of parenting a special needs child, the power of taking time for yourself, and the incredible support of a loving spouse.

Key Takeaways:

The Importance of Personal Time: I reflect on how hunting helps me reset mentally and emotionally, but I also highlight the internal conflict of leaving my family behind during tough times.

Balancing Family and Personal Needs: This episode centers on a pivotal moment when I had to cut a hunting trip short to support my wife and autistic son, Wyatt. I explore the tension between fulfilling personal desires and prioritizing family responsibilities.

Wyatt’s Progress Update: I share the ups and downs of Wyatt’s development, touching on a particularly difficult school year and the promising progress from a new chiropractic therapy focused on his vagus nerve.

The Power of a Strong Marriage: I emphasize the importance of communication and working together as a couple when raising a special needs child, offering insight into the strain autism can place on relationships.

Faith and Perspective: I reflect on a life-changing conversation that shifted my perspective on Wyatt’s struggles, helping me realize that while hardships may not be God’s plan, He can guide us through them to find greater strength and purpose.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

How to find balance between personal passions and family responsibilities, especially when raising a special needs child

The role of mental reset through personal hobbies like hunting

The critical importance of strong communication and teamwork in a marriage impacted by autism

Insight into alternative therapies for autism, including chiropractic care focusing on the vagus nerve

How faith can provide clarity and strength during difficult times

Join me as I share my stories of hunting, family life, and Wyatt’s progress, offering insight and encouragement to other parents navigating the world of autism. Whether you’re seeking advice on balancing family demands or looking for inspiration, this episode has something for everyone.

Feel free to reach out with your thoughts, suggestions, or personal experiences. Let’s build a community where we support each other in finding strength and balance in life’s chaos.

Hey everyone! In today’s episode, I’m reflecting on the importance of family support, building mental strength, and facing challenges head-on. As I prepare for my annual hunting trip to Colorado, I share how these trips have really helped me develop resilience—both mentally and physically. I also talk about how much my wife’s encouragement means to me. Without her pushing me to go when I feel unsure, I wouldn’t be doing half the things I am today. Whether it’s hunting or life as a father to an autistic child, having a solid support system is everything.

I also want to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart for the incredible support since the first episode aired. I never expected to reach so many people so quickly, and it’s been an absolute blessing.

This episode is all about encouragement and the power of community. I hope it inspires you to push through your own doubts and discomforts, whether you’re balancing family life or chasing a personal goal.

Key Takeaways:

• Having the support of family and loved ones is crucial for building mental strength.
• Don’t let fear or discomfort hold you back from doing what you love or what’s good for you.
• A strong support system—whether it’s your spouse, friends, or community—makes a world of difference.
• Be sure to give back by encouraging those around you to do what’s right for them.
• Mental resilience comes from facing tough situations and pushing through discomfort.

Thanks again for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love it if you could share it with someone who might need a little encouragement today. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive community. Feel free to visit spectrumincamouflage.com or email me at tommy@spectrumincamouflage.com—I’d love to hear your thoughts!