Talk To Me Sis
Talk To Me Sis is a heartfelt and honest podcast hosted by two moms, Lise Smith and Nicci Smith, who first connected through the hit Netflix show Love on the Spectrum. United by their journeys of raising sons with autism, they dive into real conversations about motherhood, relationships, personal growth, and everything in between. With humor, vulnerability, and unfiltered storytelling, the show creates a space where no topic is off-limits, inviting listeners to laugh, cry, and connect like sisters do.
Episodes
55: The Ultimate Guide to Raising a Child With a Disability...
Caregiver burnout is a silent reality in the disability community, but the right support roadmap changes everything. Today, Cecilia Elizalde joins us to share how Best Buddies is providing vital resources not just for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), but for their entire family ecosystem.From specialized mentorship for parents navigating a new Down syndrome or A
54: Are We Putting Too Much Pressure on Our Kids? w/ #IMOMSOHARD
What happens when we sit down with two of the funniest moms on the internet?Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley of @imomsohard join us for a hilarious, honest conversation about motherhood, friendship, raising kids who don’t always fit society’s expectations, and learning to let go of the parenting life you thought you were supposed to have.Plus, Kristin and Jen reveal how their friendship began
53: Love on the Spectrum's Sonia Wiggins on Body Image, Grief & Finding Herself
Millions of people met Sonia Wiggins through Love on the Spectrum. But what cameras never showed was the heartbreaking chapter she was living through behind the scenes.Just weeks before the show aired, Sonia lost her mother to stage 4 cancer. At the same time, she became the target of online bullying while trying to navigate grief, an AuDHD diagnosis, and years of masking who she really was.In th
52: She Survived War, Then Did the Unthinkable
This may be the most inspiring story we've ever shared. Born with a disability. Survived war. Lost her daughter. Then she spent the rest of her life helping thousands of women and children rebuild theirs.Rosie and Georgie join us to share the remarkable journey behind Chosen Warrior, revealing how faith, resilience, and purpose carried them through unimaginable loss.WATCH THE FULL INTERVIEW HERE
51: Stick It Where the Sun Don't Shine w/ Britnee Kellogg
She's known online as the Queen of Trash Day. The country singer who takes out her trash cans while calmly reading (and clapping back at) hateful comments about her kids. But before the viral videos, Britnee Kellogg was a young single mom sitting on her floor with a newborn, no job, and a toddler son she didn't yet know was autistic. In this episode, Britnee opens up about surviving divorce, rais
50: Moms of the Spectrum: Liz Miller Opens Up About Emma
Emma Miller became one of the breakout stars of Love on the Spectrum, but this episode is about the woman who helped shape her journey.Liz Miller joins us for an honest conversation about parenting, autism, and the unexpected experience of opening your family's life to the world. From behind-the-scenes stories about filming to Emma's unforgettable lipstick moment, Liz shares what viewers didn't s
49: Love on the Spectrum's Shelley Opens Up About Autism & James
Fans know Shelley and James as one of the sweetest couples from Love on the Spectrum, but there's so much more to their story.Shelley joins us to share how a simple message turned into an unexpected love story, why their relationship works so well, and what life has been like since the cameras stopped rolling. She also opens up about being diagnosed with autism as an adult, the challenges of bein
48: Leanne Morgan's Incredible Journey to Becoming a Comedy Superstar
What happens when you refuse to give up on your dream?This week we sit down with comedian and Netflix star Leanne Morgan for one of our most inspiring conversations yet. Leanne opens up about balancing family and ambition, the challenges of empty nesting, marriage, aging with confidence, and why it's never too late to reinvent yourself. Lise SmithTikTok: @connorsmom4514Instagram: @connorsmom_lise
47: Tish Cyrus-Purcell Gets Real About Motherhood, Fame & Finding Herself
In this heartfelt episode of Talk To Me Sis, Tish Cyrus-Purcell opens up about raising one of the biggest stars on the planet (Miley Cyrus, in case you were wondering!) while balancing motherhood, marriage to Dominic Purcell (Prison Break), business (how does she protect her kids from the industry), and eventually asking herself one simple question: Who am I outside of being a mom?Lise SmithTikTo
46: From Non-Speaking Child to Autism Advocate with Dr. Kerry Magro
Dr. Kerry Magro was diagnosed with autism at age 4, non-speaking until age 2.5, and didn't use full sentences until he was 7. Today he's a bestselling author, professional speaker, and the autism consultant behind Netflix's Love on the Spectrum US. In this episode, Kerry shares what actually helped him find his voice. From scripting Lion King movies to theater therapy, and what he wishes every ne
45: Netflix's Love on the Spectrum Expert Opens Up
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, we sit down with Jennifer Cook author, autism advocate, and the relationship expert from Netflix's hit show Love on the Spectrum. But this time, Jennifer isn't guiding someone else. She's sharing her own story.00:00:00 Coming up...00:00:34 Meet Jennifer Cook from Love on the Spectrum00:16:31 Masking Autism and Learning Social Rules00:17:18 Using Movies and Books
44: We're Getting Real About Mental Health This Week
It's Mental Health Awareness Month and nothing is off limits. Two autism moms get real about dysregulation, self-care, postpartum, and finding your way through the hard days.Hosts:Lise SmithNicci Smith
43: Honest Advice on Motherhood, Marriage & Finding Yourself
What do you wish someone had told you before you became a mom? In this episode, Nicci and Lise pull back the curtain on the real, unfiltered truth about motherhood. From identity and independence before kids, to grace in long-term partnerships, to the lifeline of good mom friends, this episode is the conversation you didn't know you needed.And they close on an incredible high note: Rio's Law is n
42: Unfiltered: Who We Were Before Netflix
In this episode, Lise and Nicci pull back the curtain on who they were long before Netflix's Love on the Spectrum. Lise opens up about rebuilding her life as a single mom to four kids with very little money and no roadmap. Nicci shares her journey from a shy, insecure young woman to a confident autism advocate, nurse, stay-at-home mom, and fitness lover. And how her husband Mark helped shape who
41: Love on the Spectrum's Abbey's Mom Christine Romeo Opens Up
Christine Romeo is back! She's an autism advocate and mom to Abbey from Netflix's Love on the Spectrum. She joins us for a raw, honest conversation about what the media got wrong about Abbey and David, and the incredible growth she's witnessed in Abbey. We also talk Gestalt Language Processing, emotional regulation tools, new music from Abby, and why the autism community needs to stop fighting its
40: Addressing the Shocking Love on the Spectrum Season 4 Break-Up
SPOILERS AHEAD: In Season 4 of Love on the Spectrum, Connor and Georgie had a shocking breakup. Connor's mom, Lise, and Tanner's mom, Nicci, are sharing their reactions. 00:26 – First Impressions of Season 4 Cast02:04 – Who Stole Season 4?04:31 – Dylan & Emma 07:32 – James & Shelley 09:10 – Tyler & Madison Proposal Reaction11:01 – Connor & Georgie Breakdown - What Really Happene
39: Love on the Spectrum Season 4 Secrets Revealed (SPOILER ALERT)
SPOILERS AHEAD: Season 4 of Love on the Spectrum just dropped on Netflix and we are breaking down everything you need to know. Connor and Georgie's London trip, the things that cameras never filmed, and what Connor is really looking for in a relationship. What's next for Tanner? Plus Connor's historic autism advocacy win as Rose's Law passes in the Georgia State House. And Lise and Nicci share the
38: Love on the Spectrum Season 4: Who's Back & Who's Out
We're BACK! Nicci Smith and Lise Smith, moms of Tanner and Connor from Netflix's Love on the Spectrum Seasons 2 & 3 are answering ALL your burning questions about Season 4!Chapters:00:00:00 - Love on the Spectrum Season 4: What to Expect00:01:23 - Answering Your Burning Season 4 Questions00:02:11 - Is Love on the Spectrum Real & Unscripted?00:03:09 - Behind the Scenes: What Filming Is Real
37: Cozy Holiday Chat
In this holiday edition of Talk to Me Sis, we share our favorite Christmas traditions, favorite holiday movies, and reflect on the past year while looking forward to new adventures in 2026. We discuss the importance of family gatherings, the joy of giving, and the significance of community involvement during the holiday season.Hosts:Lise SmithTikTok: @connorsmom4514Instagram: @connorsmom_liseYouTu
36: Milton and Amber Jones: Helping Kids Read and Grow
In this episode, Milton and Amber Jones, a father-daughter duo, share their journey in education and literacy through their nonprofit, From Broke to Breakthrough. They discuss the importance of reading aloud to children, the impact of parental involvement, and their mission to improve literacy among young learners. The conversation highlights their innovative programs, success stories, and the sig
35: Creating an Autism-Friendly World
In this episode, Layla Luna, founder of Just Bee, shares her journey as a mother of a non-verbal son with autism. She discusses the challenges faced by families in the autism community, the importance of awareness and acceptance, and her mission to create a more inclusive society through her nonprofit organization. Layla highlights the significance of Rio's Law, which aims to train first responder
34: Navigating Sexual Education for Neurodivergent Minds
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, the hosts engage in a deep conversation with Shalini Solomon, a certified behavior analyst, about the importance of sexual education for neurodivergent individuals. They discuss the developmental stages of sexual awareness, the use of visual aids, and the necessity of open conversations about sexuality. The episode emphasizes the role of parents in managing disco
33: Talk To Me Sis: The Connor Takeover
Connor flips the script and takes the mic, putting his mom Lisa in the hot seat. Together, they share family stories, travel tales, and movie moments that shaped themGuest:Connor TomlinsonTikTok: @connortomlinson5Instagram: @connortomlinson5Hosts:Lise SmithTikTok: @connorsmom4514Instagram: @connorsmom_liseYouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114Nicci SmithTikTok: @nicci_tannersmomInstagram: @nicci_smith6S
31: Ready for Aloha
In this conversation, we express our excitement about an upcoming trip to Hawaii, discussing activities like surfing and zip lining, and sharing our personal feelings about the adventure.Hosts:Lise SmithTikTok: @connorsmom4514Instagram: @connorsmom_liseYouTube: @carrideswithconnor4114Nicci SmithTikTok: @nicci_tannersmomInstagram: @nicci_smith6Sponsored by MerchLabs.com
30: Special Connections and Big Dreams
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, we reflect on their recent trip to Houston, sharing insights from their experiences traveling and the lessons learned about parenting. We discuss the inspiring women they met during their visit, who are making significant impacts in the special needs community. The conversation also touches on upcoming speaking engagements and the excitement of a trip to Hawaii,
29: Real Talk, Safe Space
In this episode we talk about the recent autism press conference and all the different reactions it stirred up. We dive into how stories about autism get told, who gets to tell them, and why that matters. It is a look at how representation shapes what people understand and how sometimes some voices get heard more than others.We also chat about what it really means to be part of a community. Everyd
28: Celebrating and Processing
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, the hosts share their experiences from Emmy week in Los Angeles, reflecting on the joy of being together and the challenges of discussing happy moments amidst current global issues. They focus on their neurodivergent children, Connor and Tanner, celebrating their achievements and the importance of empathy and unity. The episode also includes memorable encounters
27: Moms of Complex Support Needs Autism #5: Eileen Lamb/The Autism Cafe | Talk To Me Sis #27
In this episode, Eileen Lamb shares her journey as a mother of children with autism and her role at Autism Speaks. She discusses her personal experiences with autism, the challenges of parenting, and the importance of community support. Eileen emphasizes the need for unity within the autism community and the significance of self-care for caregivers. She also talks about her aspirations to write bo
26: Rob Gorski - The Autism Dad | Talk To Me Sis #26
In this episode, Rob Gorski, also known as The Autism Dad, shares his journey of parenting three sons with autism. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of raising children on the spectrum, the importance of self-care for parents, and the impact of community support. Rob reflects on his life before fatherhood, the evolution of his online presence, and the significance of being present for his c
25: Madison Marilla: TTMS' Biggest Hype Woman and Star of LOTS
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, hosts Nikki and Lise welcome Madison from Love on the Spectrum. They discuss Madison's background, her experiences growing up with autism, the importance of supportive adults in her life, and her journey through college and into her career. Madison shares insights about her jewelry business, her relationship with Tyler, and the lessons she's learned about persona
24: Sam Tomlinson, Connor's Dad | Talk to Me Sis #24
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, hosts Lisa and Nikki reunite with Sam Tomlinson, father of Connor Tomlinson, to discuss the complexities of co-parenting, the journey of raising a child with autism, and the impact of their experiences on family dynamics. Sam shares his background, the challenges faced during Connor's diagnosis, and the lessons learned through parenting. The conversation also tou
23: Moms of Complex Support Needs Autism #4: Staying Feral With Mrs. Get Burly | Talk to Me Sis #23
WARNING: This video contains strong language!In this episode, Ashley Caron shares her journey as a mother of a child with autism, discussing the challenges and triumphs of parenting a non-speaking child. She emphasizes the importance of fitness as a mental health outlet, the need for early intervention, and the significance of finding joy in small moments. Ashley also highlights the complexities o
22: Life Updates/Catching Up/Answering DM's
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, the hosts reconnect after a brief hiatus, sharing personal updates and reflections on family life, particularly the joys and challenges of parenting neurodivergent children. They discuss the impact of the show 'Love on the Spectrum' on their lives and the community, highlighting the importance of representation and understanding. The conversation also touches on
21: Moms of Complex Suport Needs Autism: Andrea Landreth | Talk To Me Sis #21
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, Andrea shares her journey as a mother of Trent, who has autism. The conversation explores Andrea's background, family dynamics, and the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs. They discuss the importance of communication, sibling relationships, and the resources available for families. Andrea emphasizes the need for support and community, a
20: Mom of Complex Support Needs Autism: Nikki Tomczak | Talk to Me Sis #20
** Mild Language Warning **In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, host discusses the journey of Nikki Tomczak, an autism mom, and her daughter Olivia. Nikki shares her experiences navigating the complexities of autism, including the medical challenges they faced, the importance of finding the right support, and the impact of underlying medical conditions on behavior. The conversation emphasizes the si
19: Moms of Complex Support Needs Autism: Betsy Hicks Russ | Talk to Me Sis #19
In this episode, Betsy Hicks Russ shares her journey as a mother of a nonverbal autistic son, Joey, and discusses the transformative experience of discovering spelling as a means of communication. Betsy emphasizes the importance of presuming competence in non-speaking individuals and highlights the need for inclusivity within the autism community. She also introduces her Be Kind Vest initiative, a
18: Enneagram Rachel | Talk to Me Sis #18
In this episode, the hosts welcome Rachel York, a certified Enneagram coach, to discuss the Enneagram personality typing system. They explore the significance of understanding oneself and one's partner through the lens of the Enneagram, emphasizing its relevance in relationships, parenting, and personal growth. Rachel provides insights into the nine Enneagram types, their motivations, fears, and h
17: Bonus Episode: Car Talk | Talk to Me Sis #17
In this episode, the hosts explore the intersection of technology and personal experiences, particularly focusing on the impact of autonomous vehicles on daily life. They share personal stories about family adventures, the growth and development of children with autism, and the challenges they face in social situations. The conversation highlights the importance of technology in enhancing life exp
16: Vernon Jackson | Talk to Me Sis #16
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, Vernon Jackson shares his journey from a reluctant leader to a passionate advocate for children, particularly those with special needs. He discusses the creation of the Gifted Event, a free haircare program designed to provide a safe and loving environment for children during haircuts. Vernon emphasizes the importance of patience, understanding, and emotional con
15: Dads of the Spectrum Pt 1: Lawrence Jones (James' Dad) | Talk to Me Sis #15
In this episode, Lawrence Jones shares his journey as a father to James from Love on the Spectrum. He discusses his upbringing, the challenges of parenting, and the importance of patience and commitment in family life. Lawrence emphasizes the role of his wife, June, in supporting James and navigating their parenting journey together. He offers advice to new dads, reflects on the impact of the show
14: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 6: Esme (Pari's Mom) | Talk to Me Sis #14
Host Nikki speaks with Esme Kim, the mother of Pari from Love on the Spectrum. They discuss Esme's life before motherhood, the early signs of autism in her daughters, and the challenges and triumphs of parenting two children on the spectrum. Esme shares her experiences with therapy, advocacy in schools, and the importance of support systems, while also addressing the emotional toll of isolation an
13: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 5: Debbie (David's Mom) | Talk to Me Sis #13
In this episode, David's mom Debbie Isaacman shares her journey from working in the Secret Service to becoming a mother of triplets, one of whom is on the autism spectrum. She discusses the early signs of autism in her son David, the importance of early intervention through ABA therapy, and the role of his sisters in his development. Debbie reflects on the challenges and triumphs of navigating pub
12: Bonus Episode: Catching Up! | Talk to Me Sis #12
In this episode, Nicci and Lise reconnect, sharing personal updates about their families and the challenges of balancing busy lives. They celebrate small victories in their children's growth and discuss the importance of humor in navigating life's complexities. The conversation also highlights the growth of their podcast, their commitment to improving production quality, and their plans for future
11: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 4: Jenny | Talk to Me Sis #11
SummaryIn this episode, Jenny Marilla shares her journey as the mother of Madison, a cast member from 'Love on the Spectrum.' She discusses Madison's early signs of autism, the importance of early intervention, and the various therapies that have helped her daughter thrive. Jenny emphasizes the significance of dietary changes, building relationships with therapists, and the challenges of navigatin
10: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 3: Christine Romeo (Abby's Mom) | Talk to Me Sis #10
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, Christine Romeo, mother of Abby from Love on the Spectrum, shares her life journey, from her adventurous youth to the challenges of motherhood and parenting a child with autism. Christine discusses her family dynamics, the impact of mental health, and her philosophy on resilience. She reflects on her career path, the complexities of autism diagnosis, and her thou
9: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 2: June Jones (James’ Mom) | Talk to Me Sis #09
***Mild Language Warning***In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, host Talk To Me Sis welcomes June Jones, the mother of James from Love on the Spectrum. The conversation explores June's background, her experiences as a mother, and the challenges she faced in navigating James's early development and diagnosis on the autism spectrum. June shares insights into the educational system, the importance of a
8: Moms of the Spectrum Pt 1: Sandy Vielma (Dani Bowman’s Aunt) | Talk to Me Sis #08
In this episode, Sandy Vielma shares her journey as a caregiver for her niece Dani, who is on the autism spectrum. Sandy discusses her transition from a regular life to becoming a full-time caregiver, the challenges and triumphs of Dani's early childhood, and the unique approaches they took to support her development. The conversation highlights the importance of individualized care, the role of m
7: Answering your DMs, Making Improvements, & Setting the Record Straight | Talk to Me Sis #07
In this episode, Lise and Nikki connect with their audience by sharing heartfelt messages from listeners, particularly focusing on the experiences of parents and families affected by autism. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of parenting children on the spectrum, and the significance of sharing personal stories. The hosts reflect on their own journeys, the feedback t
6: Real Talk from Autism Dads | Talk to Me Sis #06
In this episode of Talk To Me Sis, the hosts engage in a heartfelt discussion with two fathers, Mark and Tony, about their experiences raising children with autism. They explore the emotional and financial challenges, the impact on marriages, and the vital role of siblings in supporting their special needs siblings. The conversation also touches on blending families, acceptance, and the proud mome
5: Siblings of the Spectrum Pt 2: Brothers | Talk to Me Sis #05
SummaryIn this episode of Talk To Me Sis, siblings of individuals with special needs share their unique perspectives on growing up in a family with a special needs sibling. They discuss the challenges, the emotional dynamics, and the lessons learned through their experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, understanding, and the character-building aspects of their journeys.
4: Siblings of the Spectrum Pt 1: Sisters | Talk to Me Sis #04
In this episode of Talk To Me, Sis, hosts Lise Smith and Nicci Smith engage with their daughters, who share their experiences growing up with siblings on the autism spectrum. The conversation explores the challenges and insights gained from their unique family dynamics, including feelings of being overlooked, the concept of the 'glass child', and the impact of having a special needs sibling on the
3: Tanner and Connor! | Talk to Me Sis #03
In this episode of Talk to Me Sis, the hosts engage in a heartfelt conversation with Tanner and Connor, two young men on the autism spectrum. They discuss their childhood experiences, the importance of therapy, and the challenges and triumphs of growing up. The conversation highlights the significance of patience, understanding, and encouragement for parents of autistic children. Tanner and Connor
2: Sharing diagnosis stories | Talk to Me Sis #02
Nicci and Lise open up about the moments they first noticed something different in their sons’ behaviors and how those observations led to an autism diagnosis. second episode of Talk to Me Sis!Hosts:Lise SmithNicci SmithSponsored by:MerchLabs
1: Welcome to the show! | Talk to Me Sis #01
Nicci and Lise talk about the show's name, their stories, and more on the first episode of Talk to Me Sis!Hosts:Lise SmithNicci SmithSponsored by:MerchLabs
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