Interview: Adapting to Life's Changes: Insights from Mitchell's Personal Journey

Finding Balance and Belonging in a Season of Transition

📸 Captured today in the vibrant Fashion District! 🏙️✨ A perfect blend of creativity and style all around.

Adjusting to change is indeed never easy, and for Mitchell, it’s been a profound season of self-discovery and growth. Transitioning into a lifestyle that balances personal needs and societal expectations has involved navigating both internal and external challenges. For Mitchell, finding comfort in his routines and fostering a sense of belonging have been central to his progress. It’s not just about adapting to new circumstances like implementing structured daily activities or adjusting to sensory experiences; it’s also about redefining what stability and fulfillment look like for him personally.

Mitchell's openness about his experiences reveals his thoughtful approach to self-acceptance and gradual adaptation. One of the key lessons he’s learned is the importance of patience—both with himself and from those around him. Recognizing that his pace and preferences may differ from others has been an important step in moving forward without the weight of unrealistic comparisons. This willingness to share his story, including the vulnerabilities and strengths that come with it, highlights his determination to grow on his own terms. Ultimately, Mitchell sees this chapter not as a barrier but as an opportunity to explore and align his life in ways that feel authentic and empowering. It’s a reminder that growth is unique to each person, and the road to self-discovery is a deeply personal yet universally impactful journey.Interviewer: Mitchell, thank you for sitting down with us. You’ve been going through a big transition lately. How would you describe this new chapter in your life?

Mitchell: It’s definitely been a big adjustment. Any time my routine changes, I feel it in a major way. I like familiarity, structure, and knowing what comes next, so stepping into something new can feel overwhelming at first. But I’m trying. I think that’s the biggest thing I want people to understand—I really am trying, even when it takes me longer to settle in than other people might expect.

Interviewer: What has been the hardest part of adjusting?

Mitchell: Probably the unpredictability. New people, new expectations, new timing, new activities. When too many things change at once, it can make me feel tense and distracted. I do best when things are explained clearly and when I have time to get used to them little by little. Once I know the rhythm of the day, I feel a lot better.

Interviewer: Have you started to find parts of the routine that feel good or comforting?

Mitchell: Yes. I’m getting there. I like having familiar activities to come back to. I like when I have a quiet place to focus, and I like when people let me talk about the things I’m interested in instead of trying to rush me past them. I also like simple routines that repeat in the same order. That helps me relax because it makes the day feel more manageable.

Interviewer: How have you been adjusting to some of the newer, specific changes, like wearing Pampers?

Mitchell: Well, it felt unusual at first and took some getting used to, but now it’s just part of my day. I’m learning to see it as something that helps me feel more comfortable and secure. That’s how I frame it for myself.

Interviewer: We heard things didn’t go as planned with public school last year. Could you share a bit about that?

Mitchell: Yeah, there were plans to try public school again after my third-grade assessment didn’t go so well. But ultimately, it just wasn’t the right fit for me at that time. I needed a different type of learning environment, and that plan didn’t work out. I’m not ruling out public school in the future, though. Never say never.

Interviewer: How’s your diet looking these days?

Mitchell: It’s kind of all over the place! I eat Gerber baby food, drink bottles of milk, and also eat solid foods. It might sound like a weird mix to some people, but it works for me. Having a balance of familiar, comforting foods and solid meals helps me feel good.

Interviewer: Speaking of your environment, it sounds like preschool days come with some unexpected moments. Like dealing with teachers farting?

Mitchell: (Laughs) Oh, yeah, that happens! Most of the time, it’s funny to me. I guess you could say I make the best of it. It’s just one of those things you can’t control, so why not laugh about it?

Interviewer: How are you handling the learning side of things?

Mitchell: I try my best, but I’ve always had my own pace. Sometimes formal assessments or structured academic tasks don’t show everything I’m capable of. I know there have been times when I didn’t perform the way people hoped I would. That can be frustrating because it doesn’t always reflect how hard I’m trying. I’ve been doing more practice at home and working on building skills in ways that feel less overwhelming. That helps.

Interviewer: What are you hoping for next?

Mitchell: I want to keep getting more comfortable. I want things to feel more natural. I want to keep my interests, keep building routines that work for me, and be around people who understand that I may do things differently—but that doesn’t mean I’m not growing.

Interviewer: People often ask about Shepherds Daycare and whether it’s real. What do you say to that?

Mitchell: People do ask about that a lot, and the answer is yes—Shepherds Daycare is based on real events. It’s part of my life, and it’s a space where I feel understood and supported. And as for the other part of the question, if I’m really a big baby? The truth is, yes, I am a big baby. That’s a part of who I am, and I’m okay with that. It’s not about pretending or trying to fit into someone else’s idea of what’s normal; it’s about finding comfort, being myself, and continuing to grow in ways that feel right for me. People might not always understand it, but it’s something that makes sense for my life and how I experience the world.

Interviewer: How do you feel you compare to other ABDLs?

Honestly, I don’t think I’m the first or most prominent ABDL out there. There are so many boys who have come before me and have way bigger followings than I do. I try to be respectful of that and acknowledge the community that’s been here long before I started sharing my story. It’s not about competing or comparing; it’s about being part of something bigger, learning from others, and contributing in my own way.

Interviewer: How do you feel about the guys encouraging you to drink bottles that make you fart?

Honestly, I think it's kind of funny, but I also know they're just looking out for me. I get stopped up a lot, and those bottles really help me stay regular—it’s good for me. It might be a little embarrassing sometimes, but I’m grateful they care enough to help me with something that’s a bit of a struggle. It’s all part of the support and fun of the community.

Interviewer: Would you be open to a life with no solids and just one bottle per hour?

You know, that's a tough one to imagine right now. I’ve always enjoyed the experience of eating solid foods—the texture, the variety, and the social aspect of it. But at the same time, I’ve learned not to completely rule things out. Life is unpredictable, and who knows what could happen or what might work best for me in the future? Never say never.

Interviewer: Would you enroll in public school?

I’ve dealt with some challenges that have hindered my education in ways I cannot fully comprehend, which is why guys are bringing that up. Honestly, the answer is not right now. But, again, never say never. There are so many alternatives out there, and I think it’s about finding what feels right for me and my situation when the time comes.

Interviewer: Is it disrespectful when guys fart in your face?

Honestly, I don’t know how to feel about that. Some might say it’s disrespectful, but I think they’re just trying to make me laugh—or maybe not. There are worse things they could be doing, so I try not to take it too seriously. At the end of the day, I guess it depends on the situation and the intention behind it.

Interviewer: Is it a good idea for models from the brand (ambassadors etc) to transition into teaching positions at Shepherd’s Daycare?

I think it’s a wonderful idea for them to have moved into teaching positions at Shepherd’s Daycare, especially given their previous experience modeling for my brand. It’s a testament to their growth and an admirable step toward giving back to their community in a meaningful way. Transitioning from one career path to another can be challenging, but it also reflects their versatility and commitment to making a difference. However, taking on a role in childcare comes with great responsibility, as it requires fostering trust, building connections, and leading by example. It’s important for them to maintain a balance of authority and compassion to cultivate a nurturing space for the children. I genuinely hope they’re able to set a positive and inspiring tone, as their influence can have a lasting impact on the kids in their care.

What do you think the rumors about guys knowing about Shepherd's Daycare but not planning to meet you in person, or pretending like they do, but they really don't?

Honestly, they don’t at all. I’ve always preferred to engage in ABDL activities and explore my little headspace solo. Guys can take whatever they want from that—it’s just how I’ve always approached it, and it works for me. If they choose to reach out or connect with me, that’s entirely their prerogative, and I genuinely don’t hold any hard feelings either way. I’m open to meeting them, but my safety and comfort must come first, just as theirs should. Building trust and ensuring mutual respect is crucial in these kinds of interactions. I also want to highlight that Shepherd's Daycare provides a welcoming and judgment-free environment for anyone interested in exploring their ABDL side. I encourage all guys to engage with it, as it could be a space where they feel supported and understood.

What would you say to those who think Shepherd's Daycare is just a passing fad?

It could be, honestly. Trends come and go, and it's natural for people to view things with skepticism. But for me, ABDL isn’t a trend—it's a part of my life. Whether or not Shepherd's Daycare is being profiled for a series or getting attention, I’m always doing ABDL stuff and spending time in and out of my little headspace. It's who I am, and that doesn’t change based on what others might think."

At the end of the day, Shepherd's Daycare is about fostering connection, expression, and a sense of belonging within the ABDL community. It’s a space where individuals can feel seen, understood, and accepted for who they truly are. While there may always be misconceptions or debates surrounding topics like this, the impact Shepherd’s Daycare has on those who engage with it is undeniable. For many, it’s more than just a daycare—it’s a sanctuary for authenticity and joy. And that, above all, is worth celebrating.