All Brains Grow

Is Flexibility the Key to Helping Neurodivergent Kids Thrive? with Krystel Alhayek

Supporting neurodivergent children in learning, communication, and daily life requires more than just structure—it requires flexibility. In this episode of All Brains Grow, I sit down with Krystel Alhayek, a neurodiversity specialist and my teammate at All Brains Grow, to explore how adapting our approach can lead to real progress for children who think and learn differently.
We discuss:- Why flexibility is essential when working with neurodivergent kids- The balance between structure and adaptability in learning and behavior- How allowing stimming, choices, and natural learning leads to better outcomes- Why rigid expectations can hinder progress—and what to do instead
If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to help a child fit into a system that doesn’t work, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover practical, science-backed strategies that help create an environment where growth happens naturally.
🎧 Listen now and start embracing flexibility for better learning and connection. 
Head to allbrainsgrow.com/podcast for resources and support

Beyond Burnout: How Parents of Autistic & Dyspraxic Kids Can Reclaim Their Well-Being

Are you constantly running on empty? Do you feel like no matter how much “self-care” you do, burnout keeps creeping back in? You’re not alone. Parents of autistic and dyspraxic/ developmental coordination disorder (DCD) kids experience some of the highest levels of stress, anxiety, and exhaustion, yet their own well-being is often overlooked.
In this episode of All Brains Grow, I sit down with clinical psychologist and PhD candidate Lea Chawki, who studies the mental health of parents raising neurodivergent children. We break down:
- Why traditional self-care often fails parents of autistic & dyspraxic kids- What research shows actually helps—from mindset shifts to real-life strategies- How to move beyond survival mode and start feeling stronger, calmer, and more in control
If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking a break, overwhelmed by daily challenges, or just worn out from advocating for your child, this episode is for you. Real talk, research-backed insights, and practical tools—because your well-being matters too.

Mom, Not Teacher: The Hardest Lesson to Learn in Autism Parenting For Jessica Behna Beydoun

As parents, we want to teach our kids everything—how to navigate the world, how to grow, how to thrive. But when does teaching become too much? When does guiding turn into pushing? And how do we strike the balance between structure and freedom?
Jessy is the perfect example of this. A lifelong educator, she spent years shaping how children learn, only to realize that when it came to raising her autistic son, Nathan, she had to unlearn everything she thought she knew. In this conversation, we talk about the limits of teaching—how too much structure can take the joy out of learning, yet too little can leave a child lost. Jessy shares her journey of stepping back, of shifting from being a teacher to simply being a mom, and how she’s still learning every day.

Reclaiming Our Narrative: Deema Al Alami on Culture, Education & Books

Raising children who are deeply connected to their culture, proud of their heritage, and confident in their identity is more important than ever. In this episode, I sit down with Deema Al Alami, a Palestinian educator, author, and advocate, who has spent over 16 years shaping the way children and families engage with Arabic culture through literature and education. From co-authoring books like “48 Stories of Exile” on body safety and Palestinian heritage to launching the Arab Child Summit, Deema is on a mission to help Arab parents embrace their values while raising the next generation.
We talk about the power of reading, the challenges of parenting in a world full of outside influences, and why creating stories that reflect our realities matters. If you've ever questioned whether you're "doing parenting right" or struggled to find children's books that speak to your experience, this episode is for you.You can get your copy of "48 Stories of Exile From Palestine" with proceeds going to the PCRF here: https://www.48stories.com/products/48-stories-of-exile-from-palestine
For more ressources and support, find us at https://allbrainsgrow.com/podcast/
 

Unlocking Potential In Occupational Therapy With Raghida Ashkar

Join me as I explore The Developing Child Center in Dubai with neuro-pediatric occupational therapist Raghida Ashkar. From her personal journey in post-war Lebanon to her work with neurodiverse children, Raghida shares her empathetic, hands-on approach to therapy while guiding us through the center’s neuroscience and sensory rooms. Her philosophy is simple yet profound: believe in every child's potential and work tirelessly to help them achieve it.

Discipline vs. Connection: How To Navigate The Parenting Dilemma With The Wise Parent

There’s no universal blueprint for parenting—especially when it comes to balancing connection and correction. In this episode, I sit down with Karen Abou Jaoude and Sarah Raslan, the minds behind The Wise Parent, to explore their transformative approach to parenting. Combining their Arab roots with a Western perspective, they offer insights into navigating the complex dynamics of discipline, connection, and fostering resilience in children. Drawing from their coaching experiences and our shared reflections, we discuss how small shifts in awareness and intentionality can create meaningful change—not just in parenting but in shaping the next generation. Whether you're a parent or simply curious about the ripple effect of connection, this conversation will leave you inspired to rethink what it means to guide, nurture, and grow.

Hooked on Struggle: Why It’s Blocking Your Growth

What does it really take to change? In this solo episode, I share a raw and personal experience about transforming my 15-month-old daughter's chaotic sleep patterns into peaceful nights, and what it taught me about the science—and struggle—of change. I dive into the invisible addictions that hold us back, the roles we unconsciously play in perpetuating problems—both our own and those of others—and how rewiring our brains can create lasting transformation. As we step into a new year, let’s uncover the messy, rewarding truth about growth and the power we have to create real change—not just for ourselves, but for the people we love.
Head to www.allbrainsgrow.com/podcast for support and resources.
 

From Cerebral Palsy to a Dancing Queen - Maya’s Story

Leila Nashabe shares her journey of raising her daughter Maya, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. From the confusing early days of the diagnosis to the incredible moment of watching Maya dance on stage, Leila walks us through the struggles, the sacrifices, and the little victories that meant the world to her family.
This isn’t just about cerebral palsy; it’s about a mother who had to slow down, shift her whole world, and find a new balance between who she was and who she needed to be for her daughter. Maya’s journey to the stage, despite all the odds, shows just how far love and belief can take you. Every challenge can lead to a beautiful, defiant dance. Head to www.allbrainsgrow.com/podcast for support and resources.

Sexual Health & Autism in the Middle East: How One Uncomfortable Conversation Can Change Lives with Dr Asmahan Saleh Khalil

Let’s be honest: Talking about sexual health isn’t exactly a strength—or a regular habit—in the Arab world. These topics are often shrouded in taboo and remain under-researched in our region. But no matter how uncomfortable they make us, these conversations are essential.
In this episode, Dr. Asmahan shares transformative insights on how to navigate these discussions with honesty and practicality. She offers a realistic framework for families in the region and reminds us that sometimes, the first step is simply learning to say the words we tend to whisper out loud.

How Croissants Helped A Mom Let Go: Autism and Living Independently with Rim Smadi

Kicking off our first guest episode with the inspiration behind All Brains Grow: my mom.. 
Growing up, she made it all look effortless, as if caring for my autistic brother came naturally. But when I sat down and asked her intentional questions, I realized how far from the truth that illusion was. My brother, now an independent 30-year-old and a sous-chef, wouldn’t be the man he is today without her unwavering support. 
Head to www.allbrainsgrow.com/podcast for support and resources