What if an autism diagnosis wasn’t the end—but the spark that ignites a journey toward connection, advocacy, and growth?In this deeply moving episode of Finding Common Ground, Heather and Steve welcome LaShona Johnson, whose dual roles as a parent and disability community advocate uniquely inform her insights. Together, they explore how LaShona’s experience raising her son with autism evolved into a mission—and ultimately, a guidebook—for others navigating the path ahead.LaShona's journey is full of moments that feel too familiar—to be real, raw, and hopeful all at once:“I just kept feeling like…something is not quite right. Something is off.”— On trusting that gut when early signs emerged“It was relief and grief all at the same time.”— On the emotional paradox of finally receiving a diagnosis“If this door isn’t open, let’s call another person until we find somewhere for him to go.”— On the power of persistence and relentless advocacy“He can tell you all about model trains… that’s his special interests.”— On how a child’s passion can become a powerful bridge“This diagnosis isn’t the end. It’s just a shift in perspective … instead of focusing on fixing, let’s focus on connection, advocacy, and growing together.”— On reframing the narrative for familiesIn this episode, Heather, Steve, and LaShona cover:Early signs and the complicated road to right-fit diagnosis and interventionNavigating preschool, reading challenges, and the tough school-system pivotshow writing The Autism Roadmap: From Early Diagnosis to Academic Success became LaShona’s way of lighting the path for families just getting startedTips for building a vital support network—3 to 5 people who serve as your crewReimagining success: supporting fathers, blending professional knowledge with parental emotion, and moving toward adult services with creative strategiesIf you’ve ever searched for practical tools to move beyond overwhelm, this episode delivers—with warmth, transparency, and hope. LaShona’s experience isn’t just inspirational—it’s a blueprint you can test in your own backyard. LaShona’s book is available now: https://a.co/d/iPiEiwK Give it a listen for honest conversation, real wisdom, and a roadmap that reminds us: the journey continues, and it can feel like home.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/finding-common-ground--6199849/support.