We had the good fortune of connecting with Joanna Sweeney and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joanna, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Our brand was founded by Keagan Sweeney . She is my daughter. She has autism and is nonverbal . The old saying goes “Actions speak louder than words.” She was able to show me how her sequined mini skirt felt good inside her hoodie pocket . I’ll never forget . It was silver. She enjoyed the texture immensely. Unexpectedly one day she insisted on taking it to school in her pocket. I figured ok kiddo you know best. So I followed her lead. Her aides and teacher happily reported that she was content , peaceful, focused and well… happier . So we sewed it in place and it took off! Listening to your kiddos and meeting them where they are at is important. We have 3 family rules . If it involves health , safety and respect then it’s non negotiable. Anything else is up to explore!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a mama with four kiddos, and a Wife to my husband Stan.Two of our children have autism. Starting out, our family life was a handful! Somedays well honestly it still can be. That’s the first point though, Right? That a handful is Ok!! My husband and I decided that the best way to harness being parents to such a neurodiverse “handful”, was from the heart! Hence our family motto , “All for one and one for all!” We immersed ourselves in supporting each other . Keagan and Ben always Went to football games and gymnastics meets, Kendra and Zach went to therapies and challenger baseball! Compassion, empathy and experience evolved, for each other. We learned that everyone’s different and that was a good thing ! Our Beyondthelabel nonprofit is backed by a family that understands this, lives this and now wants to share this message by helping kids have a voice! Let’s bring back the word family in a way that’s all encompassing. Whether you’re flying solo or live with your grandma, a family is a family! There’s a place for you to grow and thrive at Beyondthelabel.life . Let’s uplift the voice of all kids and encourage families together!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well I’d for sure head to the Granite creek Splashpad. The kids play and and interact there without thinking so much . Water tends to bring ready smiles. Our community communication boards are there too! Thats why we chose the Splashpad. It was a fun project to do with the City of Prescott . Then we would go to the Hilton next door for a Patio view and tater tot nachos! They are the best! Everyone must have some ! The creek is full of frogs and crawdads for exploring too, when you’re done . It all reminds you of some of the best parts of being a kids!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I guess my shout out is to my kids. They are my professors of kindness. They teach me to pause, have patience and consider perspective. This is something I BELIEVE in with any and every situation in life and all my heart. Divine words of wisdom.

Website: Beyondthelabel.life/ Fidgetpockets.com

Instagram: Fidgetpockets

Facebook: Fidgetpockets

Youtube: Fidgetpockets

Image Credits
Brooke’s Photography

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