Show notes
What do you do when the system doesn’t see your child the way you do?As a parent of a Black child with autism, that question isn’t just theoretical—it’s a daily reality. And today’s conversation is one I’ll carry with me for a long time. Mikilia Carroll is a fierce advocate, the founder of Aid for Autism, and most importantly, the mother of three—including her son Logan, who has shaped her life and calling in the most profound ways.This episode wasn’t just informative—it was a heart-to-heart. Mikilia shows up with her full truth: the overwhelm, the systems that gaslight parents, the beauty of raising a child who sees the world differently, and the powerful reminder that you are your child’s best advocate.This one is for every parent who’s ever been dismissed in an IEP meeting, every caregiver who’s cried behind a locked bathroom door, and every community member wondering how to show up better for our children.Meet Mikilia CarrollMikilia is the founder and CEO of Aid for Autism, a community-based organization built from the ground up with lived experience. Her journey began with her son Logan, and what started as a personal mission became a movement.She’s a mom, an educator, a fighter, and someone who never backs down from asking the hard questions. This episode is a masterclass in advocacy, but it’s also a love letter to the parents who are out here doing the most—and still feeling like it’s not enough.What We Talked AboutWhy your child’s diagnosis is not the final wordHow to advocate in IEP meetings when you feel ignoredPlanning for transitions like adulthood and independent livingGuardianship, paperwork, and the systems no one explainsThe emotional weight of caregiving—and the beauty in showing up anywayWhy extended family and community matter more than everFavorite Quotes“If I would’ve listened to those doctors, my son would be sitting in a corner somewhere tying shoes. He knows so much more than they gave him credit for.”“Every IEP is different. Don’t let them hand you a packet and call it a plan.”“Just because they have a diagnosis doesn’t mean they don’t feel. Don’t talk about them like they’re not in the room.”“We’re not asking for pity—we’re asking for partnership. Be a village. Let me take a nap.”“You’re not alone. There are people who get it. Let us guide you.”🔖 Chapter Markers01:20 Meet Michaela + her son Logan03:00 What Black parents should do after a diagnosis05:50 Why you can challenge the professionals08:00 How to advocate effectively in school meetings11:30 Navigating big transitions + preparing for adulthood13:05 Guardianship 101: what no one tells you14:56 Signs of caregiver burnout—and what to do18:30 How community can truly support parents21:45 Having “the talk” with your child about being Black and autistic26:00 Services + waivers parents don’t know they can ask for29:00 The importance of empathy, visibility, and asking the child directly31:00 Michaela’s final word to every parent: You are not alone📝 Your TurnThis week’s reflection prompt:“Where in your life are you being called to speak up, even when it feels like no one is listening?”Whether you're a parent, educator, or ally—this episode invites you to look deeper, ask questions, and trust your intuition. Our kids are watching. Let’s show them what advocacy looks like.🙌 Stay Connected + Keep the Conversation GoingWebsite: https://www.divinekonnections.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/divinekonnectionsinc/Follow Deyona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/divine_konnections_inc/ 💬 Love what you heard?Share this episode with a friend, and leave a 5-star review on Apple or Spotify to help this show reach more hearts and homes.✨ This is more than a podcast—it’s a movement. Thank you for being part of it.