Navigating Autism: Building Inclusion (S7E44)

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Autism Dad Podcast! In this episode, host Rob Gorski sits down with Sara Hast, an autism mom and advocate, to discuss her family’s unique journey. Sara shares her heartfelt experiences of raising two autistic children, navigating a late autism diagnosis during the pandemic, and the challenges of postpartum depression while parenting. Key highlights include: The role of the community in overcoming isolation and rebuilding confidence. Sara’s journey into advocacy and creating her inclusive clothing brand, Hashtags, promoting acceptance for all. The emotional impact of systemic delays in autism evaluations and how Sara turned frustration into empowerment. A raw and honest look at parenting challenges, including teaching self-advocacy, handling bullying, and fostering independence. Why bridging differences in the disability community leads to collective strength and…

0 Comments

Autism and Transitioning to Adulthood (E7E43)

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski sits down with Jacqueline Baker, a BCBA and Market Leader at Action Behavior Centers, to discuss the transition to adulthood for autistic children. Together, they explore personal and professional insights and offer valuable advice to parents navigating this complex journey. Rob reflects on his experiences as a father of three autistic sons, two of whom are now adults, and shares lessons learned, mistakes made, and practical strategies for preparing kids for independence. Jacqueline provides a clinical perspective, emphasizing the importance of fostering autonomy, life skills, and resilience from an early age. Key topics include: ·        - The importance of preparing for adulthood early. ·        - Balancing independence with the necessary support. ·        - Addressing misconceptions about autism and abilities. ·        - School…

0 Comments

Growing Up with My Autistic Brother (S7E42)

Episode Summary: In this compelling episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski speaks with Amanda Lukof, a sibling to a brother with autism and the co-founder of Eleplan. Amanda provides a unique perspective on growing up alongside a neurodivergent sibling, highlighting the emotional dynamics, challenges, and triumphs that shaped her life. This heartfelt conversation explores the often-overlooked experiences of neurotypical siblings in autism families. Amanda candidly shares her journey, from the early days of her brother Liam’s diagnosis to how those experiences inspired her to create Eleplan. This groundbreaking platform simplifies caregiving through AI-driven solutions. Together, Rob and Amanda dive deep into family dynamics, sibling responsibilities, and the vital role of technology in caregiving. Key takeaways from this episode include: - Insight into the sibling experience of autism…

0 Comments

Exploring Modern ABA Therapy with Sarah Pearson (S7E40)

In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski speaks with Sarah Pearson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Circle Care Services, to shed light on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in 2024. For many parents of autistic children, ABA therapy is a crucial consideration, yet it can be shrouded in controversy and misinformation. Sarah demystifies ABA, explaining how it has evolved and how today’s approach is centered on individualized, ethical support tailored to each child’s needs. Topics Covered: - Sarah’s Background: Sarah shares her journey from special education teaching to becoming a BCBA, driven by a passion to help kids on the autism spectrum reach their full potential. - Addressing ABA Controversies: Sarah discusses common misconceptions, including the outdated view that ABA is solely compliance-based. Instead,…

0 Comments

Autism, Anxiety & Adulthood: My Son’s Journey to Independence (S7E39)

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski reconnects with his 18-year-old autistic son, Elliott, who co-hosts to share life updates and a peek into his creative journey. Rob and Elliott discuss the challenges of transitioning into adulthood, managing anxiety, and handling societal expectations like driving. Elliott opens up about the pressures he faces as he finds his path, and together they explore his unique strengths and accomplishments. Tune in to hear Rob and Elliott’s inspiring conversation and subscribe for more insightful episodes on parenting, autism, and family! Key Highlights: - Elliott’s Creative Venture: Learn about Autistic Eyes, Elliott’s digital photography business, where he shares his distinctive view of the world through his art. - Transition to Adulthood: Elliott candidly discusses the pressures of adult…

0 Comments

Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Anthony Pacillio (S7E38)

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, Rob Gorski speaks with Anthony Pacillio, Vice President of Neurodiverse Solutions at CAI, about the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face when entering the workforce. Anthony shares his journey of building neurodiversity programs, his personal experiences as someone with social anxiety and depression, and how these have fueled his passion for helping others succeed in employment. Rob and Anthony dive deep into critical topics, including how companies can create supportive environments for neurodivergent employees, the importance of early preparation, and the need for strength-based approaches in both education and the workplace. They also discuss the "cliff" many neurodivergent individuals face when they age out of school-based services and transition into adulthood. Rob shares his personal experience helping his son navigate employment, offering valuable insights for…

0 Comments

Understanding ADHD with Dr. Robert Melillo (S7E37)

In this episode, Rob Gorski dives deep into the neurological world of ADHD and autism with expert guest Dr. Robert Melillo. Dr. Melillo is a renowned clinician, researcher, and author with over 30 years of experience in developmental functional neurology. Best known for his book Disconnected Kids, he specializes in helping children with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological disorders.

0 Comments

Navigating Autism as a Dad: Joel Pearlman’s Journey (S7E36)

In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski speaks with Joel Pearlman, father to a non-verbal autistic daughter, Danielle. Joel opens up about the emotional challenges of receiving an autism diagnosis, navigating fatherhood, and his family’s journey of acceptance. He shares how he and his wife created the Dani Plan, a digital tool to help parents document essential care information for their special needs child. Key Takeaways: - Joel shares the early signs of Danielle’s autism and how they came to terms with the diagnosis. - The emotional toll and the process of accepting life with an autistic child. - How Joel and his wife developed the Dani Plan to organize care details for Danielle, helping other parents find peace of mind. - Advice for fathers struggling with…

0 Comments

One Autism Dad’s Journey Towards Acceptance (S7E35)

In this week's episode, Rob Gorski sits down with Shaun Hampton, a father of two autistic boys, to discuss his parenting journey, the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis, and the ways his family has navigated life with autism. Shaun shares insights into the diagnostic process, the challenges of acceptance, and how his family has turned their experiences into opportunities for advocacy and awareness.

0 Comments