269. Public Meltdowns and Private Shame

If you’ve ever left a store in tears, replayed a public meltdown in your head for days, or avoided going places because it just feels easier than risking another scene… this episode is for you.

In this deeply honest conversation, Shannon opens up about the emotional weight so many autism moms silently carry after public meltdowns — the stares, the judgment, the overthinking, and the shame that often follows us home afterward.

This episode explores:
• Why public meltdowns affect parents so deeply
• The stories we start telling ourselves afterward
• How shame slowly shrinks our world
• Teaching independence without forcing overwhelm
• What actually helps in the moment
• The difference between support and survival mode
• Why your child’s behavior is communication, not failure

Shannon also shares a powerful personal story about Jordan at Chisholm Park in Florida — a moment many moms will feel in their bones — and explains how shifting the way we THINK about these experiences can completely change the way we move through them.

This is one of those episodes that will make you feel seen, understood, and a little less alone in this parenting journey.

✨ READY TO STOP LIVING IN SURVIVAL MODE?
Check out Shannon’s RESET Workshop — a powerful coaching experience created specifically for moms raising autistic children who feel emotionally exhausted, overwhelmed, stuck, or constantly on edge.

The RESET Workshop will help you:
• Understand why you feel the way you do
• Learn practical tools to calm your nervous system
• Stop overthinking and carrying so much guilt
• Start showing up differently for yourself and your family

Because sometimes the thing that needs support most… is YOU, mama.

🔗 Learn more here:
https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/coachingreset

🌟 Please Leave a Review: If this episode resonates with you, share your thoughts and experiences by leaving a review. Your feedback supports the podcast and creates a space for other parents to find inspiration and connection.

P.S. Feeling overwhelmed and ready for a change? When you're ready to take control and see different results, check out our Not Your Average Autism Mom private membership. Access exclusive support, training, and resources to save you a ton of time, and a community that truly understands.

Join us and discover how amazing this journey can be!⁠⁠ https://www.notyouraverageautismmom.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠

Additional Resources:

Join ⁠⁠⁠The Not Your Average Autism Mom Movement⁠⁠⁠ group on FB

If there is a specific topic that you would like us to talk about on the podcast, email us directly at ⁠⁠⁠⁠info@notyouraverageautismmom.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Have you listened to these episodes yet?

⁠⁠133. Beyond Helicopter Parenting, Fostering Independence⁠

⁠212. When Progress Pauses; Regression 101

🎧 Watch or listen to the Not Your Average Autism Mom podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music/Audible, iHeart Radio, YouTube, and more.