What has Tabitha Been Up to?

See some of the projects Tabitha has been working on.

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Did you know that Tabitha, our dear host and guide, grew up in rural Indiana, attended both University of Southern Indiana and Indiana State, learned French, considered the military, and then stumbled into the field she would end up working in for 17 years: a flight attendant in the airline industry? Today we present an "episode swap" - where a conversation appears on _two_ podcasts: https://themultipod.com/, which explores the lives and experiences of multipotentialites, and here, on Staring Down the Storm, Autism Advocacy in America. Why? Well, we often don't realize that as people come across our work, be it a podcast, newsletter, blog, YouTube channel or otherwise, there are parts of our story that may be obvious to us, but are completely unknown to our audience. And that journey typically forms the basis for our values, activities and the work we put out there into the world. And so get to know Tabitha a bit more: her interests, family, identity and distinct journey into motherhood. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, this meant going down the path of sperm donation and artificial insemination. This may be where you can then pick up the story, the part where she ends up with three kids, the youngest being twins, all less than two years apart, and all three diagnosed with autism. Which in turn led to Tabitha herself learning she was autistic. And in the face of all the inherent challenges therein, compounded by the current political atmosphere, Tabitha found herself with a new calling: advocacy. Tabitha and I produced a miniseries documentary in late 2024 that expands on her story as a single parent of three young kids, all with autism, and her journey into advocacy: "https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-LuHeWzt7e1MWRpRX1WgWlya-qZPuqZd&si=DYbDBY5CoCXLq5nI" Since then, we've launched her podcast, raising awareness and fostering connections within the autism advocacy space, highlighting the significance of community support, inclusivity, and the power of personal storytelling in driving change. Tabitha is here to connect with you, the listener, and to help build a powerful, determined community, both in Indiana and further abroad. So don't hesitate to reach out, send a message, introduce yourself, say hello, and make that connection! It's an honour to be a part of her podcast, and to present to you my friend Tabitha. - Ted Cragg, producer *How to Contact Tabitha: Website:*http://tabithazeigler.com* Podcast:*http://staringdownthestorm.com* Contact: tabitha.zeigler [at] gmail.com Instagram:*https://www.instagram.com/tabitha.zeigler/* Facebook:*https://www.facebook.com/tabitha.zeigler.52* LinkedIn:*https://www.linkedin.com/in/tabitha-zeigler-33825246/
From Flight Attendant to Autism Advocate: Getting to Know Tabitha
The word gratitude gets thrown around a lot. But gratitude without action is just a performance. In this episode, I sat down with KT White and Brenda Killeen of Allies for Humanity to have an honest, necessary conversation about what real service actually looks like — especially when it comes to our unhoused neighbors. This isn’t a feel-good discussion. It’s a reality check. We talk about trust, trauma, and the exhausting truth of showing up every day while watching institutions offer words instead of solutions. Why are grassroots organizations doing the deepest work constantly in crisis mode, while larger systems continue to get funded for surface-level efforts? Why do we keep criminalizing homelessness instead of confronting the systems that create and maintain it? And why is faith so often preached instead of practiced? KT and Brenda challenge the idea that help should come with conditions — sermons for sandwiches, compliance for compassion. That isn’t love. That’s control. We get into trauma-informed care, indigenous wisdom, and the necessity of boundaries in service work. You don’t need a title, a building, or institutional approval to show up with dignity and integrity. You just need the willingness to do the work. This episode is both a call-out and a check-in. Because homelessness isn’t unsolvable — we’re just avoiding responsibility. So I’ll ask you the same question I had to ask myself: if everyone has something to give, why aren’t we giving it? And what does gratitude really mean if it never turns into action? *Find more info on Allies For Humanity here:* http://www.Alliesforhumanity.org https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579484588067 https://www.instagram.com/alliesforhumanity/ To learn more about the Empowerment Plan, visit https://www.empowermentplan.org/. *Chapters* 00:00 Thanksgiving Reflections and Community Support 02:55 Pivoting for Community Needs 05:46 Building Trust with the Unhoused 08:35 Addressing Naysayers and Community Challenges 11:31 Volunteer Opportunities and Community Engagement 18:33 Personal Stories of Service 20:30 The Reality of Service Work 23:24 Grassroots Action vs. Surface-Level Work 26:05 Innovative Solutions for the Unhoused 29:09 Crisis Mode in Nonprofits 38:05 Empathy and Compassion in Advocacy 40:56 The Role of Media in Social Issues 43:41 Indigenous Wisdom and Community 46:59 Spiritual Warfare and Human Connection 56:30 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact 01:00:25 The Complexity of Healing and Support 01:07:53 The Role of Faith and Community in Service 01:15:07 Navigating Boundaries in Nonprofit Work 01:21:49 Call to Action: Community Support and Involvement *Contact Tabitha:* mailto:staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
From Pulpits to Pavement: Redefining Service, Faith, and Responsibility with Allies for Humanity
I grew up on a homestead, so I’ve always understood the value of growing your own food — not as a trend, but as a way of life. That’s why this conversation with Tad Streepey of Gypsy Rain Organics hit such a nerve for me. At its core, this episode isn’t just about organic farming. It’s about power, control, and who gets to decide what’s “safe” enough for our families. Tad is doing everything right — growing nutrient-dense food, using careful processes, serving his community — and still found himself shut down by vague, inconsistently enforced new health “guidelines.” Not laws. Guidelines. Meanwhile, massive commercial farms ship produce across the country, outbreaks and all, and somehow that’s acceptable. Why is the burden of proof always on small farmers doing the work responsibly? We also talk about food insecurity in a farming state — let that sink in — and how corporate consolidation, lobbying, and bureaucratic overreach are stripping communities of food choice, autonomy, and resilience. This isn’t theoretical. These policies affect school lunches, families with limited resources, and kids — including autistic kids — who benefit deeply from fresh, whole foods and hands-on learning environments like farms. So I’ll ask the uncomfortable question: when did convenience and profit become more important than health, nutrition, and community wellbeing? And why are we letting unelected systems quietly decide what we’re allowed to feed our families? Food freedom isn’t radical. It’s fundamental. *Find more info on Gypsy Rain Organics here:* Website: https://www.gypsyrainorganics.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gypsyrain_organics/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1495457177241047 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@gypsyrainorganics/featured To Learn More about Harrison County’s Community Services, click https://www.hccsi.net/ Meet Herbalist Karen Burr - https://www.mm-restorativeherbalismcenter.com/ Are PFAS forever chemicals in your water? Learn more: - https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/science/environment/2025/12/05/are-forever-chemicals-in-your-water-data/87619969007/?link_source=ta_first_comment&taid=69341ad687b3ae00010b4ebb&utm_campaign=trueanthem&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwZnRzaAO31JVleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEes8-P4xdsIRhnnlcgDTup0GP1xJXrzGxvCYWpce302yAhOK11NZXDCwnCogg_aem_ _NcJUn3m8XfrAj0jvcclkg *Chapters* 00:00 Introduction to Organic Farming and Advocacy 01:20 The Journey of Gypsy Rain Organics 05:15 Challenges with Health Regulations 12:52 The Importance of Fermentation and Food Safety 16:46 Nutritional Value and Local Farming Benefits 28:24 Engaging the Autistic Community with Farming 32:55 Political Advocacy for Small Farms 36:56 Community Support and Food Insecurity 42:57 The Impact of Corporate Farming 49:24 Future of Small Farms and Food Freedom *Contact Tabitha:* mailto:staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
When “Guidelines” Become Weapons Against Small Farmers, with Tad Streepey
Growing up in a neurodivergent family doesn’t come with a manual — it comes with chaos, humor, grief, resilience, and a crash course in empathy. In this conversation, Charlie Biluck and I get honest about what it really means to live inside a “neurospicy” family system, where love is fierce, advocacy is non-negotiable, and emotional regulation is a daily practice, not a buzzword. We talk about why society is so quick to romanticize autism while refusing to sit with the hard parts. What happens when disability isn’t visible? Why are parents judged instead of supported? And why do we still design public spaces that quietly exclude entire families? Charlie and I challenge the idea that inclusion means perfection — sometimes access looks like assisted vans, messy grocery trips, or simply being allowed to exist without apology. Charlie also shares his deeply personal journey of self-discovery — navigating ADHD, emotional regulation, gender identity, and what it means to live an aligned life. We dig into masking, burnout, late diagnoses, and how stepping away from noise can finally help you hear yourself. Why do we push people to conform instead of teaching them how to regulate, adapt, and thrive? And then we go further — into ancestry, genealogy, and heritage travel. Because knowing where you come from matters. Because history is complicated. Because truth is powerful. And because understanding our past might be one of the most radical tools we have for building our future - one of empathy, community and genuine connection. *Chapters* 00:00 Introduction to Advocacy (and Punk Rock) 05:58 Childhood Experiences and Family Dynamics 12:04 Navigating Public Spaces with Neurodivergent Kids 17:59 Creating Inclusive Spaces for Families 25:18 Navigating Parental Advocacy and Community Support 30:26 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity 35:46 The Impact of Family Health History 40:46 Genealogy and Its Connection to Identity 51:14 Heritage Travel and Ancestral Connections 01:01:30 The Intersection of Genealogy and Personal History 01:07:47 RootsTech and the Future of Genealogy 01:17:14 Getting Started with Genealogy Research *Find more info on Ancestral Wanderlust here:* Website: https://ancestralwanderlust.com/ email: mailto:info@ancestralwanderlust.com *Genealogy Resources* Click https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/registration to purchase your tickets to RootsTech 2026 https://www.familysearch.org/en/united-states/ https://www.theformidablegenealogist.com/ *Contact Tabitha:* mailto:staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
Neurospicy Families, Tracing Roots, and the Courage to Be Aligned, with Charlie Biluck
In this episode of _Staring Down the Storm_, I sit down with the incredible team from JD Angel’s Family Care to talk about what it really means to support individuals with intellectual disabilities—and why so many systems keep failing them. We dig into the origin of the organization, which started simply to meet a pressing housing need, but quickly grew into something much bigger: a place where clients gain life skills, confidence, and dignity. We talk about the daily realities—how structured programs, luxury living, and genuine care transform lives. But it’s not just about comfort; it’s about empowerment, advocacy, and teaching clients that their voices matter. From Medicaid challenges to voting, JD Angel’s pushes for community involvement and real agency. I keep asking: why are we still letting bureaucracy and politics decide who gets to live a full life? This conversation doesn’t shy away from grief, loss, and resilience. Personal stories—like the tragic death of Latia's son - a young community leader—highlight the urgency of their mission. But through it all, the focus is on building generational wealth, fostering mentorship, and proving that empowerment is contagious. JD Angel’s Family Care isn’t just an organization—it’s a family. And in this episode, I hope you’ll be challenged to think about what “community” truly means, and what it takes to stand together, across race, class, and circumstance, to lift everyone up. *Find more info on JD Angel’s Family Care here:* Website: https://www.jdangelsfamilycare.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559714353533&sk=about email: mailto:jdangelfamilycare@gmail.com Chapters 00:00 The Origin Story of JD Angel's Family Care 05:15 Transforming Lives: Daily Structure and Support 10:10 Client Success Stories: Progress and Independence 17:23 The Importance of Staff Training and Teamwork 24:07 Navigating Medicaid Changes and Advocacy 33:39 Empowerment Through Community Action 36:55 The Impact of Personal Loss and Advocacy 40:31 Building a Supportive Network 50:59 A Vision for Unity and Generational Wealth *Contact Tabitha:* mailto:staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
Transforming Disabilities into Abilities: The JD Angel's Family Care Story
I’ll be honest: the conversation we _should_ be having about financial literacy is so much bigger than budgets and bank accounts. It’s about values, agency, and the courage to question systems we treat as inevitable. That’s why I wanted to talk with David Delisle — because he’s not just teaching kids about money, he’s trying to reshape how families think about consumption, curiosity, and what actually makes a life meaningful. And here’s what keeps nagging me: why do we act like our choices don’t shape markets and culture? We say we hate monopolies, but we worship convenience. We claim to value sustainability, yet reward the cheapest option every time. David and I dig straight into that tension — the gap between the values we profess and the habits we actually live by. We also pull apart the cultural contrasts between Canada and the U.S. — healthcare, safety, community, political narratives — and what those differences expose about our beliefs around “freedom” and responsibility. From youth activism to misogyny, from consumer patterns to the rhetoric creeping into policy conversations, we come back to the same question: Are we curious enough — and honest enough — to challenge the stories we’ve accepted? Because the real question is simple: _What do we truly value, and are we willing to act like it?_ *Find more info about David Delisle here:* Website: https://daviddelisle.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theawesomestuff/# Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/OnlyBuyTheAwesomeStuff YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theawesomestuff Learn more about David’s financial literacy essentials kit here: https://www.theawesomestuff.com/ Watch David’s latest Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/EG8V8UIXXQM?si=lUxfVjBgBdAyNJSy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Financial Literacy Movement 02:49 Current Events and Canadian Perspectives 05:49 Consumer Behavior and Boycotts 08:47 The Role of Information and Media 12:10 Shifts in Societal Values and Movements 14:53 The Importance of Curiosity in Education 17:51 Generational Perspectives on Capitalism 20:56 Addressing Misogyny and Social Issues 23:54 The Role of Men in Social Change 47:55 Confronting Difficult Conversations 52:32 The Prevalence of Sexual Assault 56:01 Raising Empathetic Boys 01:01:33 Navigating Masculine and Feminine Energies 01:11:13 Independence and Collective Identity 01:17:57 Healthcare Systems: A Comparative Analysis 01:34:01 Healthcare Disparities and Racial Inequality 01:37:22 Cultural Perspectives on Community and Individualism 01:40:29 Access to Healthcare and Public Services 01:43:32 Safety and Gun Culture in Canada vs. the U.S. 01:45:44 Cultural Diversity and Integration in Canada 01:46:54 Consumerism and Lifestyle Differences 01:50:34 Community Proximity and Daily Life 01:54:32 Exploring Victoria: Nature and Attractions 02:00:22 Financial Literacy and Curiosity in Education *Contact Tabitha:* mailto:staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
A Bold Conversation with David Delisle: How Our Choices Shape Money, Culture & Community
I’m struck by how much of Caleb Banks and Amy Betzold’s journey began with one radical choice: taking Caleb’s ideas seriously. A single painted horse sparked _The Gypsy King_, and together they built an entire world from it. Why do we treat kids’ creative instincts as optional instead of worthy of real investment? What moves me most is how committed they are to doing this right. Historical fiction demands honesty, even when the truth is uncomfortable. They refuse to sanitize the 1840s or gloss over culture, race, or power. Instead, they’re seeking peer reviewers, consulting community voices, and holding themselves accountable. Isn’t that what we _should_ expect from storytellers—people willing to ask the hard questions? Their process is just as powerful: setting goals, learning craft, surviving a complete rewrite of their opening chapters, and turning a social worker’s suggestion into a real deadline. Add the confidence that comes from speaking publicly and preparing for a book launch, and you see how momentum builds when someone believes in your story. Imagine what we could unlock if more of us created those environments—where kids, adults, and disabled storytellers are supported simply because their ideas matter. How many worlds go unwritten because we never give them the chance? *More info on Caleb and Amy here:* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17gGfDZnTb/?mibextid=wwXIfr Email: mailto:BanksandBetzold@yahoo.com *Buy your copy of_The Gypsy King_via:* https://a.co/d/b62KM8c https://www.authorhouse.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/865165-the-gypsy-king?fbclid=IwZnRzaAOUhSZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeZFmf6m8g2yrwSSGn3kdz2ZpeGkBfbkt0mvZ7vDkdZNYsKM8PV9UHNVTN5w8_aem_gX2kR4KhG7FuVlKay_PTlA *To learn more about the places Caleb & Amy visited, click below:* https://www.indianamuseum.org/ *Chapters* 00:00 Introduction to the Gypsy King 03:03 The Origin Story of the Book 05:51 Researching Historical Accuracy 09:02 Scouting Trips and Inspiration 12:05 The Writing Process/Overcoming Challenges 14:49 Feedback and Editing Journey 18:09 Cultural Sensitivity in Storytelling 21:01 The Levi Coffin House and Historical Context 24:04 Character Development and Imaginary Friends 27:00 Encouragement for Aspiring Writers 33:40 Choosing the Right Publishing Path 35:34 Costumes and Creative Processes 38:46 Traveling for Inspiration 42:48 The Artistic Process/Idea Generation 48:34 Inspiring Stories of Success 52:36 The Journey of Becoming an Author 55:57 Advocacy and Encouragement for Others 57:34 The Importance of Reading/Sharing Stories 01:02:38 The Joy of Books and Community 01:04:09 Exploring Historical Literature for Young Readers 01:06:00 The Importance of Museums/Historical Education 01:07:55 Influential Authors and Their Impact on Writing 01:12:02 Community Engagement/Character Development 01:15:05 Cultural Heritage and Local History 01:20:09 Planning a Thematic Book Launch Party 01:24:02 Marketing Strategies for Self-Published Authors *Contact Tabitha:* staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
Turning Disability Advocacy Into Art: The Rise of The Gypsy King, with Caleb Banks & Amy Betzold
In this episode, I sit down with Erin Geddes to explore the emotional and often overlooked experience of growing up neurodivergent without a diagnosis. She shares what it feels like to move through childhood and adulthood believing you’re “not trying hard enough,” when the real issue is that the world isn’t built to recognize or support different ways of thinking. And I have to ask—how many kids are still silently living that reality today? For Erin, writing her book wasn’t just a creative outlet—it was a process of self-understanding. She has lived her life navigating two different worlds: the neurotypical systems she was expected to fit into, and the neurodivergent identity that finally makes sense of her challenges and strengths. That dual perspective allows her to translate between experiences in a way most people can’t. And it raises an uncomfortable question: why do we keep asking individuals to adapt while our systems stay exactly the same? When we turn to education, the urgency becomes impossible to ignore. Teachers are overworked and under-supported. Parents are left to advocate alone. Kids are evaluated against standards that ignore the full spectrum of ability, learning styles, and human development. And we still pretend the problem is effort or discipline. Where is the baseline everyone should be guaranteed—food, safety, education, dignity? Erin argues that neurodivergent voices reveal weaknesses in our systems early and clearly. When we listen, we improve. When we don’t, everyone loses. Inclusion isn’t a favor—it’s how society evolves. --- Find more info on Erin Geddes here: Get In Touch/School Speaker Requests: andthatsokayinfo@gmail.com Instagram: and_thats_okay_book https://www.instagram.com/and_thats_okay_book Facebook: ⁠ And That's OKAY https://www.facebook.com/share/17N1YxefvS/ YouTube: And That's Okay @AndThatsOkay Where to buy And That’s Okay: I’m Wired Differently: Direct from the publisher Redemption Press https://redemption-press.com/product/and-thats-okay-im-wired-differently/ Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Thats-Okay-Im-Wired-Differently/dp/1646456726 Walmart https://www.walmart.com/ip/And-That-s-Okay-I-m-Wired-Differently-Paperback-9781646456727/5464971219 I reference a video about Martin Luther King discussing the Civil Rights Movement. You can watch that here: Eloquent Civil Rights Leaders Dialogue 1963 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P4Eqb2fRon8 --- Chapters 00:00 Navigating Neurodiversity: Personal Journeys 03:06 The Publishing Process: From Idea to Book 06:03 Understanding Neurodivergence in Parenting 09:12 The Challenges of Employment and Childcare 12:04 Faith and Resilience in Relationships 14:48 The Future of Disability Advocacy 17:45 Creating Supportive Systems for Families 20:55 Reflections on Neurodiversity and Society 51:03 Navigating School and Therapy Schedules 54:42 The Challenges of Parenting Autistic Children 58:32 Mental Health and Societal Pressures 01:00:03 Historical Context of Economic Disparities 01:12:01 Education Systems: A Comparative Analysis 01:20:19 The Value of Human Life and Responsibility 01:37:01 Everyday Struggles and Decisions 01:40:30 Access to Basic Human Needs 01:43:44 Education and Socioeconomic Disparities 01:46:10 Fear and Its Impact on Society 01:49:23 Neurodiversity and Social Justice 01:52:05 Cultural Perspectives on Public Spaces 01:56:12 Creating Inclusive Environments 02:00:13 The Importance of Safety and Acceptance 02:05:51 Bridging the Gap Between Neurodivergent and Neurotypical 02:12:34 Advocacy and Personal Mission --- Contact Tabitha: staringdownthestorm@gmail.com
"Growing Up Misunderstood": The Neurodivergent Reality. Conversation with Erin Geddes
We continue our conversation with TK & KT of Allies for Humanity, focusing on the importance of advocacy for autism and the need for community engagement to create meaningful change. We explore the impact of foster care on children, particularly those with autism, and emphasize the collective responsibility of humanity to support vulnerable populations. We also look at the role of music and community in healing and fostering hope, as well as the challenges posed by political systems in effecting change, especially in this day and age. We know that we can't rely on the status quo and powers that be to do much. But what kind of revolution will it take? Ultimately, TK, KT and I call for a shift in narrative and a commitment to action in order to create a better future for all. --- Allies For Humanity stands for: - Dignified Housing - "Every person deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and free to be who they are. We co-create sustainable, empowering solutions with our neighbors - honoring housing as a fundamental human right and a foundation for healing." - Holistic Well-Being - "True sovereignty begins with well-being. We cultivate mind, body, and spirit by empowering individuals to trust their own wisdom, walk their own path, and receive support through community and holistic healing practices." - Radical Transparency - "Trust is built on openness. We practice full transparency in finances, decisions, and impact - ensuring clarity and accountability in all we do." - Sacred Reciprocity - "We believe in the power of mutual support. Every act - whether offering skills, time, resources, or presence - plays a vital role in strengthening our community and creating lasting impact." You can learn more about Allies For Humanity here: Website: - https://www.⁠alliesforhumanity.org⁠ Share your story: ⁠https://www.alliesforhumanity.org/way-to-engage/share-your-story⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠ - https://www.facebook.com/p/Allies-For-Humanity-61579484588067/ --- Chapters: 00:00 Empowering Change Through Conscious Storytelling 02:47 The Impact of Foster Care on Children 05:47 Addressing the Needs of Autistic Youth in the System 11:39 The Role of Allies for Humanity 14:44 Unveiling the Truth Behind Public Perception 20:27 Navigating Political Challenges for Change 23:32 The Healing Power of Music and Community 29:24 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Sovereignty 32:39 Wrapping Up: The Call to Action Contact Tabitha: staringdownthestorm@gmail.com #autismpodcast
Allies For Humanity, Part 2: "Community Engagement is Vital for Creating Change," with TK & KT
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