Shows / Pieces For My Puzzle

Pieces For My Puzzle
Welcome to the Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where I, Nikki Shipp, invite you to join me on a journey through the intricacies of life as a wife to a dedicated police officer and a mother to an incredible autistic son.
As a parent navigating the unique challenges and joys of raising a child on the spectrum, I understand firsthand the complexities and uncertainties that come with it. Through this podcast, I share my personal experiences, insights, and lessons learned along the way.
Pieces For My…
Episodes
Pieces For My PuzzleS2E17: Moms with Mimosas: Part 2 - Unexpected Experiences and Joyful Moments
Introduction: Welcome to Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, your go-to platform for sharing resources, gaining perspective, and finding inspiration on the journey…
Pieces For My PuzzleS2E14: Moms with Mimosas: Part 1 - Navigating Autism Diagnosis and Support
Introduction: Welcome to Pieces For My Puzzle Podcast, where we offer a safe space for parents and loved ones of individuals with special needs to share…
Pieces For My PuzzleHuman Design and Autism – Understanding our Children. With Guest Speaker Stacy Foust! Part 1
This episode is nothing short of transformational. Stacy Foust, an expert in Human Design and Gene Keys, illuminates the paths that can lead us to our innate…
Pieces For My PuzzleHuman Design and Autism – Understanding our Children. With Guest Speaker Stacy Foust! Part 2
Prepare to have your perspective shifted with part two of our insightful discussion with Stacy Foust, a luminary in the field of Human Design and Gene Keys…
Pieces For My PuzzleLeadership and Courage in the Autism Community
In today's eye-opening episode, Nikki explores the key elements crucial to empowering families within the autism community. Inspired by a moment of clarity…
Pieces For My PuzzleAI, Apps, and Autism – Can they be beneficial to use?
In this week's video, we will be discussing the topic of Artificial Intelligence and Autism. With the rise of AI in various industries, it's important to…
Pieces For My PuzzleIt’s NOT funny….Or is it?
Autism and humor can be a sensitive subject because it's not always easy to understand someone else's perspective. But we have found that finding humor in…
Pieces For My PuzzleVitamins do a body good! But which label do you choose?
In this video, I will share my background in nutrition and how it has helped me find the best supplements for my family. I will also provide quick tips on what…
Pieces For My PuzzleS2E6: CBD Fun Facts – with Guest Speaker Rachael Woosley! Part 1
Hey everyone! This week we have a special guest - Rachael Woosley - here to talk to us about the amazing benefits of CBD and how it can help those with autism…
Pieces For My PuzzleS2E7: CBD Fun Facts – with Guest Speaker Rachael Woosley! Part 2
Are you curious about the potential benefits of CBD for autism? Look no further! Join us this week as Rachael Woosley, an expert on CBD, joins us to discuss…

Pieces For My PuzzleBlending a Family with an Autistic Child
Looking to make your blended family time more successful when dealing with an autistic child? Nikki has been in the same situation and she's sharing her tips…
Pieces For My PuzzleEnergy Frequency – Can it Make a Difference?
Welcome back to this week's episode! We are going to dive into something a bit more unconventional - energy vibrations and sound frequencies! Our goal today is…
Pieces For My PuzzleWhat is normal anyway? Defining Neurodiversity
Get ready to explore the world of neurodiversity! This week on our show, we're diving into the meaning of autism and neurodiversity. Discover why this term is…
Pieces For My PuzzleHow DARE YOU Disrupt The Routine!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the disruption to your routine? Has Autism been making it extra hard to adjust? Join us as we discuss how to navigate life's…
Pieces For My PuzzleAn Extraordinary Journey – The Horse Boy with Rupert Isaacson - Part 1
Explore an extraordinary journey with Rupert Isaacson, author of The Horse Boy and one of the most inspiring parents to children with autism. In this episode…
Pieces For My PuzzleAn Extraordinary Journey – The Horse Boy with Rupert Isaacson - Part 2
This week Nikki continues her conversation with Rupert Isaacson, author of The Horse Boy. An incredible experience that has led him to take a deep dive into…
Pieces For My PuzzleDad’s perspective with guest speaker, Patrick Shipp! - Part 2
Are you a dad with an autistic child? Tune into the latest episode as Nikki talks with her husband, Patrick Shipp, on the Dad’s perspective. Hear his unique…
Pieces For My PuzzleDad’s perspective with guest speaker, Patrick Shipp! - Part 1
Are you a dad with a child on the spectrum? Nikki brings in her husband, Patrick Shipp, to give the Dad’s perspective on having a child with Autism. You won't…
Pieces For My PuzzlePersonal training and autism with guest speaker Tyler Smith - Part 2
Do you want to learn how to work out with autism? This week on the show we’ve got Tyler Smith, the personal trainer for children with Autism! He will be…
Pieces For My PuzzlePersonal training and autism with guest speaker Tyler Smith - Part 1
Calling all parents of kids with Autism! Get ready to take your child's training to the next level with Tyler Smith: the personal trainer who specializes in…
Pieces For My PuzzleSometimes You Just Need a Good Cry
As parents, we often feel like we have to hold it all together. We're responsible for keeping our families running smoothly and ensuring everyone is happy and…
Pieces For My PuzzleThe Misconceptions About Autism
Autism is often widely misunderstood, with many misconceptions and stigmas attached to it. It's time to shatter these myths and bring about a greater…
Pieces For My PuzzleIs my marriage strong enough?
Life can be tough, but adding a child on the spectrum into the mix can feel like a whole new level of chaos. But let me tell you - it's possible to make it…
Pieces For My PuzzleBeing diagnosed with ASD as an adult
For those who have received a late diagnosis of Autism, it's important to remember that this is just the beginning of a journey, not the end. Though it may…
Pieces For My PuzzleIt’s not an Autism thing, it’s a Human thing
When it comes to autism, there's a lot of myths and misconceptions out there. But the reality is that autism affects people in different ways. In this video…
Pieces For My PuzzleGet Outside! Find out what nature can offer you
Did you know that spending time outdoors can open up communication and learning with your autistic child? Check out this video to hear Nikki’s suggestions and…
Pieces For My PuzzleCommunication is a Two Way Street
When it comes to parenting children on the autism spectrum, communication is key. But sometimes it can be a challenge getting through to our kids. In this…
Pieces For My PuzzleCreating a Sleep Plan That Works!
There's no one-size-fits-all sleep plan for kids with autism spectrum disorder, but there are some basic tips that can help. In this video, Nikki shares her…
Pieces For My PuzzleLet’s Shop! Sensory Friendly Clothes for Your Child
Looking for sensory friendly clothes for your child? Look no further! In this episode, we take a look at some of the best places to find ASD friendly clothes…
Pieces For My PuzzleThe Head Games We Play with Ourselves
We all have those little voices in our heads that tell us what we can and can't do. For parents of kids with autism, these voices can be especially loud - and…
Pieces For My PuzzleBringing a dog into the home with a child on the spectrum
Introducing a dog into the home can be a big decision - especially if you have a child on the autism spectrum. In this episode, Nikki shares some tips on how…
Pieces For My PuzzleGoing on a trip WITHOUT your kids? How to prepare and lessen anxiety
Are you going on a trip without your kids? If so, you're likely feeling a range of emotions: excitement, freedom, and anxiety. Preparing for an extended period…
Pieces For My PuzzleColors Can Make A Difference!
Did you know that colors can have a profound impact on people with autism spectrum disorder? We relate sensory disorder to light and sound, however, you rarely…

Pieces For My PuzzleEmotional support for parents – Fill your cup up first!
Story Highlights Like/follow us on Facebook and Instagram @piecesformypuzzle Do you have a funny story or an inspirational story about your child on the…
Pieces For My PuzzleHow to use social media to find Autism support
With unlimited access to information these days, social media is now included as a way to search for information. Nikki talks about the good and the bad on…
Pieces For My PuzzleAutism, ADHD, and Dyslexia – Now You Try to Read!
Often times there’s more than just “autism” that you are facing when you are trying to help your child. Tune in as Nikki tells her story about finding out that…
Pieces For My PuzzleMom Talk! Part 2
Tune in for a different perspective from Nikki’s good friend and also a mother of an autistic child, Katie Barrie. This is part 2 of a two part series where…
Pieces For My PuzzleMom Talk! Part 1
Tune in for a different perspective from Nikki’s good friend and also a mother of an autistic child, Katie Barrie. Nikki asks the hard questions like initial…
Pieces For My PuzzleShould I tell my child they are autistic?
There's a lot of debate over whether or not to tell your child they are autistic. Some people believe it's better to let the child find out for themselves…
Pieces For My PuzzleEP 27: Connection through Art Therapy
When it comes to autism, every person is different. But one thing that's universal is the importance of connection. Autism can be isolating for both the person…



Pieces For My PuzzleDid you put it on the calendar?
If it’s not on the calendar then it doesn’t exist! At least, that’s how it is in Nikki’s house. Staying organized and giving visuals can be vital for people on…
Pieces For My PuzzleSafety First! Do you have a plan?
What would happen if your child with autism wandered away from home? The harsh truth - 49% of kids on the spectrum wander. This startling statistic has led…
Pieces For My PuzzleWater Safety for the Whole Family
Looking for a fun and informative way to keep your family safe around water? Look no further! In this episode, Nikki covers how they transitioned their son…
Pieces For My PuzzleDo you know your IEP Terminology?
Do you know your IEP Terminology? If not, don't worry! You're not alone. In this episode, Nikki breaks down some of the most important terms every parent…
Pieces For My PuzzleDental Visits Can Be Happy Visits
Dental visits don't have to be a drag. In fact, they can be downright fun! Nikki is especially passionate about this topic as she retired from a 17 year career…
Pieces For My PuzzleLet’s Go Camping!
Camping can be a great experience for the whole family...except when you have to worry about your special-needs child. Nikki shares some tips on how to make…
Pieces For My PuzzleGame Time! Ways to connect with your child on the spectrum
Are you looking for ways to connect with your child on the spectrum? It can be tough, but games are a great way to bond and have some fun. It also can enhance…
Pieces For My PuzzleIEP Road Mapping
If you're the parent of a child with autism, you know that having an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a critical part of making sure your child gets the…
Pieces For My PuzzleDoes Your Child Feel Good About Themselves? Guest Speaker - Dani Shaw from Dani Shaw Coaching
We can all agree that self-confidence does not come easily in today’s world. So how does that translate to a person who has autism? Is self confidence…
Pieces For My PuzzlePicky Eater? Quick Tips to Implement Food
Eat your broccoli! But for some, that’s easier said than done. It’s hard enough for kids to try new foods. Mealtime can be one of the most difficult times for…
Pieces For My PuzzleSimple Steps For Handling Anxiety in Autistic People
Podcast YouTube Description: We all know that autism affects how people communicate and interact with the world. Anxiety is a common problem for autistic…
Pieces For My PuzzleAutistic Burnout - Is It A Real Thing?
Recently Nikki learned a new term that is common in Autistic adults called “Autistic Burnout”. Tune is as Nikki explains what it is, and how getting resources…
Pieces For My PuzzleThe Easter Bunny is Coming, Are You Ready?
We’ve all been there - the holiday pictures you want to capture for the sake of tradition but your child’s behavior is unpredictable. Nikki gives quick tips on…
Pieces For My PuzzleProtecting Your Child Financially
You know your child might need long term care but it’s so hard to think about it when you're busy helping them now with resources. Most parents don’t even know…
Pieces For My PuzzleFinding the Right Hab Providers for Your Home
When you need additional help, finding the right Hab providers can be challenging. When Nikki first started out trying to find resources for her son, she was…