Ep. 158 - Two Homes. One Diagnosis. Zero Communication with Andrea

In this episode of Autism for Badass Moms, host Rashidah sits down with Andrea Jordan, a Chicago-area mom of three whose 8-year-old daughter, Zuri, was diagnosed with Level 3 autism shortly before turning three. Andrea opens up about receiving Zuri’s diagnosis during an already difficult chapter in her marriage, the loneliness she experienced, and what life has looked like since her divorce. She shares the realities of parallel parenting, advocating for services when both parents are not always on the same page, and carrying the weight of appointments, school needs, insurance battles, and major decisions. She also shares one of her greatest sources of comfort: knowing that Zuri has two older brothers who love her fiercely and can help advocate for her when she cannot advocate for herself. Two years after her divorce, Andrea is still rebuilding—balancing motherhood, a 13-year career with the VA, family, friendships, fitness, healing, and the dreams she still wants to pursue. In this episode, we discuss: 1.0 – Meet Andrea 1:04 – Early Signs of Autism 2:04 – Autism Research 2:29 – Early Intervention 3:10 – Denial 3:49 – Emotional Impact 4:38 – He Wants a Divorce 5:41 – Beginning Therapy 9:56 – The Turning Point 10:14 – Marriage Retreat & Final Realization 10:44 – Filing for Divorce 11:25 – Parallel Parenting 11:46 – 50/50 Custody 15:27 – Attempts at Co-Parenting 17:44 – Involving Children in Conflict 21:15 – Back to Court 29:31 – Gym as a Mental Escape 35:45 – Advice for Moms ABOUT OUR GUEST Andrea Jordan is a poet. She is currently working on a book that incorporates her poetry that was written during her marriage and divorce. Andrea is passionate about helping other moms understand that choosing yourself is not selfish – it’s essential. Her message is rooted in faith over fear, self- advocacy, and the belief that the most important promise you can keep is the one you make to yourself. CONNECT WITH ANDREA Instagram: www.instagram.com/drea_delena Facebook: Andrea Jordan TikTok: drea_delena LinkedIn: Andrea Jordan If this episode resonated with you: -Follow the Autism for Badass Moms Podcast -Leave a review to help other autism moms find this community -Share this episode with a parent who may feel unseen or misunderstood Website: www.autismforbadassmoms.com Follow Us: Instagram: www.instagram.com/theabmpodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/theabmpodcast