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Complex Kids, Simple Solutions
Complex Kid, Simple Solutions is the go-to podcast for parents raising neurodivergent and medically complex kids. Hosted by Michelle Choairy, a seasoned advocate and mom of a complex child, this podcast delivers clear, actionable strategies to help you navigate the chaos with confidence.
Each episode breaks down overwhelming challenges into simple, practical solutions—whether it’s advocating for your child, navigating the school system, or finding the right support team. You’ll hear expert insights, real-life stories, and empowering advice to help you become your child’s best advocate while keeping your own sanity intact.
Because raising a complex kid is hard—but finding solutions doesn’t have to be.
🎧 Subscribe now and start turning challenges into victories!
Complex Kids, Simple Solutions
Amanda Trisdale — Building a Dance Floor for the Kids Everyone Else Overlooked
In this heartfelt episode, Michelle sits down with Amanda Trisdale, CEO of Autistic Wings Dance Company, to spotlight what happens when a fierce mom, a fiercely talented daughter, and a fiercely broken system collide—and how they built a sanctuary for neurodivergent dancers when no one else would.
Amanda shares:
💔 Why neurodivergent kids were getting shut out. From being told they must be verbal, potty-trained, and able to sit still—at three—to being denied jazz, tap, or ballet, Amanda knew these so-called “inclusive” studios weren’t built for real kids.
👣 How a 13-year-old designed a better way. Amanda’s daughter Lita insisted every dancer have an IEP. Yes, an IEP for dance. And what started as an idea became a waitlisted, word-of-mouth miracle.
📉 The brutal math behind their pricing. Classes start at $55 per month—not per class—because most families simply can’t afford more. Amanda’s team runs 1:1 sessions that cost more to deliver than they charge, and they're still turning families away because they don’t have space or staff.
🧱 Why they’re raising $2,800/month to survive—and launching a capital campaign to buy a building. The goal? Elopement locks, lights that don’t buzz, small class sizes, and enough dance floors to serve the neurodivergent kids no one else is making room for.
🩰 One nonverbal boy’s breakthrough. When “Otter” joined in January, he didn’t stretch, follow directions, or engage. Now? He’s doing pliés, tendus, and three-point turns—and waking up on class days asking for dance by name.
Quote to tape on the fridge:
“This isn’t just a dance class. It’s the only place some of these kids are seen.”
From her daughter’s first pirouette to a community redefining success beyond applause, Amanda’s story is a masterclass in what happens when families build the system they wish existed.
👤 About Amanda Trisdale
Amanda Trisdale is the CEO of Autistic Wings Dance Company, a nonprofit dance studio founded by her daughter, Lita Rundle. She is also the co-host of Lita Taps Styles, a podcast about autism, artistry, and advocacy—with a splash of humor. Based in Colorado Springs, Amanda is a relentless champion for autistic kids and their families.
🔗 Support Autistic Wings Dance Company
• Donate to the General Fund
• Contribute to the Capital Campaign
• Buy a Tile to Leave a Legacy
• Visit Their Website
• Follow on Facebook
• Instagram: @autisticwingsdancecompany
• Twitter: @autisticwingsdance
#ComplexKidsSimpleSolutions #
Listen to this episode and more at
https://wisdom4complexkids.com/complexkidssimplesolutions
🎧 Connect with Michelle:
Website: www.wisdom4complexkids.com
Instagram: @michellechoairy
Join the community: Wisdom 4 Complex Kids Facebook Group
💌 Have a question or want to share your story? Email Michelle at michellechoairy@gmail.com
🧠 Want simple tools that actually work?
Download the free advocacy toolkit: wisdom4complexkids.com/the-ultimate-advocacy-toolkit-pdf