Mighty Moms Podcast S3E1 with Mighty Mom Danielle Latham

In season three, episode one of the Mighty Moms Podcast, hosts Brina and Dee Dee—moms to sons Owen and Tad on the autism spectrum—welcome autism community influencer Danielle Latham to discuss her journey raising her son Van. Danielle shares noticing early developmental differences, Van’s autism diagnosis at about two and a half at Kennedy Krieger in Maryland, and how early intervention led to speech, occupational therapy, in-home Child Find services, and ABA support, including intensive work on potty training and ongoing bathroom challenges. The conversation explores grief around missed milestones, how autism “levels” can be confusing, and why focusing on individual needs can be more helpful. Danielle describes Van beginning to talk around age seven, faith and church experiences, self-care, and the importance of researching resources, applying for grants and waivers early, and getting on long waitlists. 

00:00 Meet Mighty Moms

00:30 Introducing Danielle and Van

01:55 Early Signs and Diagnosis

06:09 Diagnosis Process Then vs Now

08:44 Autism Levels Debate

15:12 Therapies and Child Find

16:21 Potty Training Breakthroughs

17:54 Bathroom Independence Tips

20:29 Grief and Milestones

23:57 Finding Joy and Hope

26:04 Late Talking Breakthrough

27:58 Repetitive Interests and Faith

28:52 Church and Emotional Attainment

30:41 Self Care and Support Systems

34:18 Respite and Community Resources

35:16 No Delay in Diagnosis

37:12 Research and Advocacy Mindset

40:36 What Mighty Mom Means

43:38 Season Wrap and Sponsor Messages

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