✍️ Hey there, it’s Cheniece.
This episode is a vulnerable one—one I wish someone had recorded for me in those early, overwhelming days of learning what it really means to parent neurodivergent children. I’m speaking straight from the heart about the unseen layers of autism motherhood that most people never talk about out loud.
If you’ve ever felt grief and guilt in the same breath, if you've ever questioned your capacity to keep going, or if you’re carrying a weight no one seems to notice… this one’s for you.
Whether you’re in the thick of survival mode or finally finding a bit of solid ground, I hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone, and you never have to pretend to be okay just to be worthy of support.
Episode Overview
Becoming an autism mom rewrites your story in ways no one can prepare you for. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what I wish someone had told me—from the unspoken grief, to the invisible advocacy labor, to the truths I had to learn the hard way. This is a safe space to feel seen and say the quiet things out loud.
What’s Inside
What I thought motherhood would look like—and what I never saw coming
The heavy emotions (grief, guilt, rage, joy) no one warns you about
The invisible roles and burnout behind being your child’s biggest advocate
Featured Insights
“You are navigating something profound. You are doing holy, transformative work—even when no one sees it but you.”
“I’ve learned that asking for help isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom.”
Resources Mentioned
The UnCommon Design Members' Chat
Listener Reflections—Call Us!
What’s one thing you wish someone had told you when you first became an autism mom?
Share your experience by leaving a message for UnCommon Design in the following ways:
✉️Email Address: uncommon-design@cheniece.com
💬Text-in Number: (601) 589-1027
📞Dial-in Number: (641) 715-3800 Access Code: 250772 Your message may be featured in an upcoming episode (anonymously or with credit—just let us know your preference when you contact us). Your experiences matter and help other parents feel less alone.
Connect With UnCommon Design
Join the Community: Become part of the UnCommon Design membership for exclusive content and a private community of parents who understand.
Let’s talk about this episode in the Members' Chat. What resonated with you? Where do you find those small moments to reconnect with yourself?
Leave a Review: Help other autism parents find this supportive space by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform
The UnCommon Design Podcast celebrates the complex journey of raising neurodivergent children while reclaiming our identities beyond caregiving. Hosted by Cheniece Patrick, mother of two neurodivergent children and advocate for parental well-being.
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