How Neurodivergent Students Succeed with Michelle Lee Steiner Artwork

Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)

Join thirteen-year-old Leta, an amazing tap dancer and the founder of Autistic Wings Dance Company, and her mom, Amanda, as they share insights into Leta's autistic life. This podcast delves into a variety of topics, from navigating the challenges of bullying in dance studios due to autism and dyslexia, to the journey of establishing a new nonprofit, to deep dives into the neurodiverse world and what it means to be “quirky.”

Gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity, self-advocacy, and the importance of acceptance and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals. The show explores personal experiences, including the phenomenon of autistic masking and burnout, offering a relatable perspective on what it's like to navigate the world as a neurodivergent person. With special guests ranging from Leta's dance family to experts in autism spectrum disorder, "Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)" celebrates the joy and challenges of life, all through the rhythm and resilience of tap dancing.

All Episodes

Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)

How Neurodivergent Students Succeed with Michelle Lee Steiner

November 21, 2025 • Leta and Amanda • Season 2

Send us a text

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Michelle Lee Steiner as we explore what it really takes for neurodivergent students to succeed. Michelle shares her personal journey with learning disabilities, the challenges she faced in school, and the strategies that helped her thrive.

We discuss the importance of self-advocacy, supportive teachers, and embracing neurodiversity in education. Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or ally, you’ll find practical insights and encouragement in Michelle’s story.

—
About our guest:
Michelle Steiner lives with an invisible disability. From the start, many people told her she could not go to college, get her bachelor’s degree, get published, or have the job she wanted. She has been able to do all of that and more. Michelle graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor’s degree in Community Programming. She has articles published on The Mighty, Non-Verbal Learning Project, Dyscalculia Blog, The Reluctant Spoonie, Kalopina Collective, Imagine the World as One Magazine, and Word Gathering. Her photographs were featured in Word Gathering Independent and Work Ready. She works as a paraeducator in a school with students with disabilities. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband and two cats.
You can find her at her blog Michelle’s Mission: https://www.michellesmission.com

—
Support Autistic Wings Dance Company:
Autistic Wings was founded by Leta. This Colorado Gives Giving Season, Leta's Tap Styles is asking our audience to help the autistic dancers at Autistic Wings find a studio home of their own. It would just take 250 people donating $20 a month. Learn more and donate: https://www.autisticwingsdancecompany.org

—
Want to be a guest on Leta's Tap Styles (And My Autistic Life)?
Send Amanda Trisdale a message on PodMatch: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/letastapstylesguest

Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review for more conversations on neurodiversity, education, and personal growth!

Neurodiversity #LearningDisabilities #Education #MichelleLeeSteiner #Podcast #AutisticWings #ColoradoGives