Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism

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About

Every voice deserves to be heard, and every story has the power to inspire. Shining Through: Inspiring Voices of Autism is a podcast dedicated to amplifying the neurodiverse community. Hosted by Jennifer Dantzler, a passionate advocate and educator, this show brings together autistic individuals, parents, educators, and community members to share real experiences, expert insights, and practical strategies. From navigating daily life to advocating for inclusion, each episode offers heartfelt conversations, powerful stories, and valuable resources to help us all better understand and support neurodiversity. The podcast where neurodiverse voices take center stage.

Meet our Hosts

Jennifer Dantzler

Jennifer Dantzler is the Founder and Executive Director of Inspire ND, Inc., a nonprofit focused on creating inclusive communities for individuals with autism and other neurodiversity. She has over 20 years of experience building high quality, innovative programs for individuals with autism. Jennifer originally founded Including Kids, Inc. as an early intervention clinic which grew to serve adolescents and young adults. Seeing the need for more robust young adult services she founded Inspire ND, Inc. and created a program focused solely on the needs of adolescents and young adults. Today, Inspire ND, Inc. is tackling the community head on through education, engagement, and advocacy initiatives to create truly inclusive communities. Jennifer has earned recognition for her contributions, including the 2008 Woman of Achievement Award in Human Services, 2011 Health Care Professional of the Year, 2015 Best Buddies Champion of the Year, and induction into the Morgan’s Wonderland Wall of Fame in 2021. In 2021, Texas State Representative Dan Huberty declared April 21st "Jennifer Dantzler Day" in recognition of her contributions to the autism field. She holds a Postgraduate Certificate of Autism from Johns Hopkins University, a Master of Science in Education in Intensive Special Needs from Simmons College, and earned her undergraduate degree in Elementary/Special Education from American University. Jennifer is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a Licensed Behavior Analyst in Texas. She actively contributes to several professional organizations, including CASP, ABAI, and TX ABA. A sought-after speaker, Jennifer addresses topics such as inclusion, neurodiversity in the workplace, and best practices in ABA. She is also a leadership coach for Empower Behavioral Health and a strategic management consultant for Project Beacon. Passionate about community inclusion, she advocates for meaningful opportunities for all individuals with neurodiversity.