In this captivating episode of The FASD Success Show, host Jeff Noble sits down with Amanda Burley, a remarkable individual making strides in her journey with FASD. As a Personal Support Worker (PSW) trainee with a passion for caregiving and advocacy, Amanda brings to the table a wealth of lived experiences and insights that are both empowering and enlightening. This episode delves into the critical themes of making and maintaining friendships, navigating the complexities of the workplace, and embodying resilience in the face of FASD-related challenges.

In this episode you will hear Jeff and Amanda discuss:

• The Art of Building and Sustaining Friendships: Amanda shares her approach to forming genuine connections, emphasizing honesty and mutual understanding. Her experience underscores the value of acceptance and navigating social dynamics with grace, particularly for individuals with FASD.
• Facing and Overcoming Workplace Obstacles: Dive into Amanda's experiences in her...

Join us in an enlightening episode of The FASD Success Show as we welcome Emma Jewell, a luminary in the world of FASD caregiving and mental health. Your host, Jeff Noble, guides you through a journey that intertwines knowledge, experience, and the drive for change, highlighted by Emma's work on the Mental Health Toolkit from the Canada FASD Research Network (CanFASD).

Emma Jewell, MSW, RSW (she/her) is a registered social worker and Research Assistant with the Psychology, Law, and Neurodevelopment (PLAN) Policy and Research Group at the University of Guelph, as well as the Canada FASD Research Network. She completed her undergraduate degree and thesis at the University of Guelph before her Master of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University. In her free time, Emma enjoys cooking, going on walks, and spending time with friends and family.

You will learn about the groundbreaking Mental Health Toolkit for FASD, a resource that is transforming mental health support for...

Join us for a captivating episode of 'The FASD Success Show' with the insightful Audrey McFarlane, Executive Director of the Canada FASD Research Network, who has been at the forefront of FASD research and advocacy for over two decades. In this episode we cover:

• Evolving Conversations in FASD - Discover how FASD discussions have expanded beyond prevention to address broader needs.
• A New Tool for Mental Health Professionals - Explore a newly launched mental health toolkit for FASD on their website.
• Seeking Voices: The Family Advisory Committee - Learn how you can contribute to FASD research by joining the Family Advisory Committee.
• Navigating Challenges: Diagnosis and Policy - Uncover the complexities of FASD diagnosis and the implications for policy-making.
• FASD on the Global Stage - Find out about efforts to raise FASD awareness through the United Nations.
• Toronto 2025: A Gathering of Minds - Get a sneak peek at the upcoming Toronto FASD...

Prepare for a journey into the heart of FASD caregiving with a twist of inspiration and a dose of real-world wisdom. I'm your host, Jeff Noble, and in this must-listen episode, I'm bringing together a dynamic team of coaches from the Caregiver Kickstart coaching program. These remarkable individuals (Barb Clark, Michael Harris, Christine Bofenkamp, and Laurie Anderson) are not only experts in their fields but also share their lives with individuals with FASD, offering a perspective that's as authentic as it gets.

As we navigate the complexities and celebrate the triumphs of FASD caregiving, each coach offers a piece of their story, shedding light on the power of connection, understanding, and resilience. Their shared experiences are a beacon for those navigating similar waters, providing solace and solidarity.

By the close of our chat, you'll be loaded with strategies, bolstered by expert insights, and touched by stories that echo your own. If you're ready for a surge of...

Welcome to Episode #138 of the FASD Success Show! Today, we're talking to Stacia Stribling, a wife, mom, FASD advocate and a proud business owner running a family-led Orchard. Stacia's story is a blend of advocacy, family, and the simple joys of life, like picking apples and peaches from her orchard.

Stacia is not just another guest; she's a powerhouse of advocacy. From her work with Formed Families Forward to her own lived experiences, Stacia brings a wealth of knowledge to the FASD community.

If you're looking for inspiration and practical advice, this episode is a treasure trove. Here are some of Stacia's golden nuggets:

• The importance of community in advocacy.
• How to navigate the complexities of FASD with grace.
• The therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature, as seen through her orchard life.

As noted, Stacia and her family own an orchard, a sanctuary where you can pick your own apples and peaches. If you're in the DC, Maryland, Virginia area, don't miss out on...

Have you ever felt like you're on a never-ending rollercoaster while navigating the world of FASD caregiving? If so, you're not alone, and Episode #137 of the FASD Success Show is just for you. This episode dives deep into the real-life story of Angela, a birth mom who has faced the highs and lows of FASD caregiving.

Angela's Unfiltered Experience

Angela is not just another guest; she's a birth mom who's been through the wringer. From handling meltdowns to cherishing the small victories, Angela shares her unfiltered experiences. Her story is a testament to the resilience and strength that caregivers in the FASD community possess.

Actionable Tips and Wisdom

If you're looking for quick fixes, this episode offers more than that. It offers sustainable and realistic strategies that you can integrate into your daily routine. Some of Angela's golden nuggets include:

• Don't underestimate the power of community support.
• Self-care is not selfish; it's essential.

What's the...

The Classroom Conundrum: Advocating for Your Child in an Uncomprehending System

Ever sat in a meeting with your child's teacher and felt like you're speaking two different languages? No, it's not just you. The struggle to get educators on the same page when it comes to FASD is real, and the stakes are high.

In our latest episode, "To Cool for School: The No-BS Guide to Getting Educators on Your Side," we dive into this complex issue head-on. We don't just air out the problems; we offer real, tangible solutions that can turn that uncomfortable parent-teacher dynamic into a collaborative partnership.

1. The Reality of a One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Do you ever feel like your child is just another cog in the educational machine? The problem often starts with a one-size-fits-all approach to education that disregards the unique challenges and abilities of children with FASD. Changing the system isn't going to happen overnight, but changing your child's experience within that...

The Mind-Boggling Moments: My Top 3 FASD Aha! Revelations

Ever felt that frustrating gap between what you know about FASD and what you actually understand when facing its real-world challenges? You're not alone.

We've all been there: armed with the facts, aware of the science, but still left bewildered when faced with the raw realities of dysregulation, overwhelm, and anger. On paper, it all seems to make sense. In action? It's a whole different ballgame.

Drawing from my own experiences and the winding path from knowledge to deep understanding, I'm here to share my top AHA moments. Moments that illuminated the complexities of FASD and bridged that daunting gap. Moments that I hope will guide you on your journey to not just knowing what FASD is, but truly grasping what it means in the day-to-day life of your loved ones. 

1. It's all about the brain, not the face.

How many times have we heard or even thought, "But they look so normal!"? It's a trap...

Unlocking the Mystery of FASD: A Simple Guide to Understanding and Explaining It

Have you ever found yourself struggling to explain FASD to someone who just doesn't get it? You're not alone. Many caregivers and their loved ones face this challenge daily. But what if I told you there's a simpler way to not only understand FASD but also explain it to others?

FASD is not just a medical term; it's a lived experience that affects families in unique ways. In Episode 134 of the FASD Success Show, we take the FASD definition I recommend and use and break it down into digestible sound bites so you can help others understand.

You will come away from this episode with a straightforward way to articulate what FASD is, how it impacts daily life and a concise, effective way to explain FASD in the time it takes to ride an elevator.

This episode is a game-changer, trust me.

After you listen, let me know what your “elevator pitch” is. I’d love to hear it!

Show notes

Show...

Did you rock your reds September 9th?

Did you even know September 9th was International FASD Awareness Day? 

If not, no worries - I got you covered with the launch of my FASD Success Show YouTube channel. 

So, let's discover the journey of FASD Day and how it's uniting people worldwide.

You're not alone and here's why!

Red Shoes are More than a Fashion Statement

Have you ever wondered about the story behind those vibrant red shoes you see on FASD Day? It's not just about making a bold fashion statement. It's about standing out, being proud, and advocating for understanding and acceptance.

The Origins of FASD Day

FASD, or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, is a complex condition that varies from person to person. It's considered the most common known cause of developmental disabilities in the Western world. And yes, it deserves its own day of recognition. The first International FASD Awareness Day was celebrated in perfect harmony on the ninth day of the ninth month in...