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Beyond the Spectrum

Beyond the Spectrum

Written by: Amanda Lancaster
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About this listen

 Christopher is the fifth of our eight children, born with classical autism. At three years old, his understanding and communication were that of a six-month-old, yet his story is nothing short of miraculous. Through him, our whole family was transformed. What began as a journey through confusion and silence became one of love and awe, reborn — a passage from loneliness to love, from isolation to connection, from fear to faith and joy. In these conversations between Christopher and his mother, Amanda, we’ll share that journey, the lessons, the laughter, and the wonder. We hope that the miracle, the awe, the love, and the joy might reach a little further than our own family.

amandablancaster.substack.comHeritage Press Spirituality
Episodes
  • It Takes a Village

    It Takes a Village
    Jan 3 2026

    In this episode, we learn how family, faith, and community became the “village” surrounding Christopher — and what true inclusion looks like when love expands outward in circles.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amandablancaster.substack.com
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    23 mins
  • The Role of Music

    The Role of Music
    Dec 18 2025

    Music as the bridge that bypasses words. In this episode, we tell stories of how rhythm, tone, and melody reached Christopher in ways spoken language could not — and how it became a shared language of joy.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amandablancaster.substack.com
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    27 mins
  • Language or Communication?

    Language or Communication?
    Dec 11 2025

    In this episode, Christopher and I discuss the difference between words and connection. We learn that communication without speech can still be rich, relational, and transformative.



    This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit amandablancaster.substack.com
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    17 mins
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