The Autism Dad

Could neuroinflammation be driving your child’s symptoms? This episode will change how you think about autism and health. In this two-part series of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts in neuroimmune medicine and mast cell research. We dig deep into how inflammation in the brain—driven by overactive mast cells—can contribute to the struggles many autistic and neurodivergent kids face, including sensory issues, eczema, gut problems, chronic sinus issues, and even regression. Dr. Theo doesn’t just talk theory—he shares actionable steps and science-backed insights that have the potential to improve quality of life for families like ours. I even share some personal stories about my sons, and how this research explains things we’ve experienced for years. Whether your child is dealing with eczema, unexplained aggression, or GI issues, this episode may offer a new lens on what’s going on under the surface—and what you can do about it. In this episode, we discuss: What mast cells are and how they can impact the brain How neuroinflammation may be linked to autism, ADHD, and chronic conditions The surprising connection between eczema and autism Why symptoms like gut issues and behavior changes are often misunderstood The role of vitamin D, folinic acid, and glutathione in autism support How stress can trigger mast cell activation and impact behavior What testing and natural interventions parents can explore How to think critically about supplements and avoid misleading claims This episode is sponsored by Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides medically necessary, insurance-covered safety beds that help neurodivergent children sleep safely and securely—at home or while traveling. They’ve just launched the Safe Place 300, a permanent safety bed option with integrated monitoring. Visit https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. You can also visit listen.theautismdad.com for more episodes, resources, and to leave feedback.

Episode Summary: In this powerful and deeply human episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with husband-and-wife team Jeremy Dyen and Dr. Mika Gupta, co-founders of Mama Bird, to explore the emotional and transformative journey of parenting a child with Down syndrome. We talk about: Navigating a life-changing diagnosis Finding purpose in unexpected places Supporting your child’s unique needs without losing yourself in the process How their personal journey led to creating brain-focused supplements for kids and families Whether you’re parenting a child with a disability or looking for inspiration from parents who truly get it, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Topics Covered: Birth and diagnosis stories NICU experiences and emotional aftermath Early intervention and the Family Hope Center How Down syndrome changed their worldview Building Mama Bird from lived experience The importance of brain health and nutrition Parenting tips, mindset shifts, and daily struggles Advice for newly diagnosed families This Week’s Sponsors: Autism 360 The Autism 360 program helps parents become confident leaders in their child’s care by providing expert-led coaching and support. Learn more at ⁠autism360.com Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides medical-grade, customizable, and insurance-covered sleep solutions for children with disabilities. Their new permanent bed model, the SPB 300, includes a built-in monitoring system. Learn more at ⁠https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad⁠ Mightier Mightier is a biofeedback-based gaming platform that helps kids learn emotional regulation skills through fun, engaging play. It’s clinically tested and loved by families. Learn how it can support your child at ⁠https://theautismdad.com/mightier⁠ (Use the code theautismdad20 and save 10%) Guest Bios: Dr. Mika Gupta is a board-certified neurologist, autism mom, and co-founder of Mama Bird, a company creating brain-first vitamins and supplements for children and families. Her personal journey raising a child with Down syndrome deeply informs her professional mission. Jeremy Dyen is a musician, dad, and co-founder of Mama Bird. With a background in mindfulness and creative arts, Jeremy brings a unique and compassionate perspective to parenting and product development. Connect with Mama Bird: Visit lovemamabird.com to learn more about their brain-focused supplements for kids and families. Follow The Autism Dad: Instagram Facebook Podcast Website Support the show: If you found value in today’s conversation, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast app.

In this powerful conclusion to our three-part Special Needs Financial Planning series, I’m joined once again by Katy Bryan, a Special Needs Financial Planner with Skylight Financial Group. In this episode, we tackle the toughest part of the journey—planning for our child’s future after we’re gone. This isn’t easy to talk about, but having a plan in place can ease a lot of the anxiety many of us carry every day. Katy and I dive into what end-of-life planning looks like for special needs families, including estate planning, guardianship, housing options, and how to prepare siblings or support systems for what’s ahead. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why end-of-life planning is one of the most important steps for special needs families What a Special Needs Trust is and how it helps protect your child’s future The growing importance of ABLE accounts and how they work Understanding guardianship vs. power of attorney Housing challenges and how to prepare your child for independence How to make sure your wishes—and your child’s—are honored when you’re not there Why it’s never too late to start planning, even if you’re behind Meet Katy Bryan: Katy Bryan is a licensed financial professional and special needs financial planner at Skylight Financial Group. With over 14 years of experience, Katy has helped families across the country build financial strategies that support long-term security for children with disabilities. Her empathetic approach makes complex planning more manageable and less overwhelming for parents. Email Katy: kbryan@financialguide.com Learn more: https://www.skylightfinancialgroup.com/ This Week’s Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides medical-grade, customizable, and insurance-covered sleep solutions for children with disabilities. Their new permanent bed model, the SPB 300, includes a built-in monitoring system. Learn more at https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad Mightier Mightier is a biofeedback-based gaming platform that helps kids learn emotional regulation skills through fun, engaging play. It’s clinically tested and loved by families. Learn how it can support your child at https://theautismdad.com/mightier (Use the code theautismdad20 and save 10%) Connect with Me: Website: https://theautismdad.com Email: rob@theautismdad.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/theautismdad Podcast: https://listen.theautismdad.com If this episode resonated with you, please consider leaving a review, sharing it with someone who needs it, or reaching out to let me know your thoughts. Your feedback keeps this community strong.

Show Notes: Special Needs Financial Planning (Part 2) — The Autism Dad Podcast In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski continues the special needs financial planning series with guest Katy Bryan from Skylight Financial Group. Katy specializes in helping families of children with disabilities plan for the future and shares key steps to prepare for your child’s transition to adulthood. Rob and Katy discuss why everything changes at age 18: managing assets under $2,000, understanding Social Security benefits (SSI/SSDI), and navigating Medicaid. They explore common questions around special needs trusts, guardianship, and power of attorney, and offer tips for finding a financial or estate planner with real disability expertise. Rob shares his own family’s journey—the struggles, learning curves, and how resources like vocational programs made a difference for his kids. Highlights: Social Security (SSI/SSDI) eligibility after 18 Managing assets and income to maintain Medicaid/benefits Special needs trusts, guardianship, and power of attorney The value of working with planners who “get” disability families Building a sustainable budget and future plan for your child How to access local job training and support resources Guest Info: Katy Bryan, Skylight Financial Group Email: kbryan@financialguide.com Thank You to This Week’s Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding creates portable, durable beds for children and adults with special needs. Their new Safe Place Bedding 300 offers advanced monitoring for safer, better sleep. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com. Autism 360 Autism 360 provides families with practical tools and expert guidance for therapy, education, and everyday life—personalized to help your child thrive. Discover more at autism360.com. Connect with Rob: Find more episodes, resources, and ways to connect at theautismdad.com. Have questions or feedback? Reach out through the website! If you found this helpful, please subscribe and leave a review—see you next week for part three! Disclaimer: Catherine Bryan is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investor Services, LLC, member SIPC, OSJ, 1956 Carter Road, Suite 200, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, Phone: (216) 621-5680. California Insurance License #4175736. The information in this podcast is not a recommendation and is not intended as financial, tax, legal, or estate planning advice. You should seek guidance from a qualified financial advisor, accountant, and attorney regarding your personal situation.

While my production computer is down, I’m re-releasing this powerful episode that so many parents found helpful the first time around. If you’re raising a non-speaking or minimally speaking child, or if you're trying to better understand apraxia and communication differences in autism—this conversation is for you. I’m joined again by Samantha Fox, M.A., CCC-SLP—an incredible speech-language pathologist and founder of Beyond Speech Therapy Center. Samantha specializes in working with non-speaking autistic individuals and is a certified Spelling to Communicate (S2C) practitioner. We talk openly about: What apraxia really is—and how it’s often misunderstood Why some autistic kids can understand language but still can’t speak The difference between language delays and motor-based speech challenges Why “presume competence” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential My son Emmett’s experience being non-speaking and how it shaped my perspective A powerful message from 17-year-old speller Kaden that will absolutely stay with you This conversation will challenge assumptions and give you a new way to view communication struggles. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator—you’ll walk away better informed and hopefully more hopeful. 🎧 Listen now anywhere you get your podcasts or at: https://listen.theautismdad.com This episode is sponsored by: 🛏 Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding creates custom, in-home safety beds for kids with autism and other special needs. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com 🎮 Mightier Mightier helps kids build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback video games developed at Harvard Medical and Boston Children’s Hospital. Try it today at mightier.com

This episode is being re-released for Autism Awareness Month. In this powerful and important conversation, I’m joined by returning guest Dr. Whitney Casares. She’s not only a Stanford-trained pediatrician and public health expert, but she’s also an autism mom raising two differently wired kids. Together, we tackle a topic many of us try to avoid—puberty. This episode is packed with practical advice, validation, and real talk for parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children. We explore how puberty may present differently, how to support our kids through emotional and physical changes, and how to have open, shame-free conversations about boundaries, hygiene, sex, and self-care. Whether your child is verbal, non-speaking, cognitively delayed, or anywhere in between—this episode is for you. Key Topics Covered: Puberty differences in neurodivergent vs. neurotypical kids Hygiene and body safety tips for autistic tweens and teens How to talk about periods, masturbation, and boundaries without shame Why our kids need honesty—not fear or avoidance Handling sensory issues around puberty-related products Parental self-care in the midst of emotionally hard conversations This conversation was originally uncomfortable for me to have—but I’m so glad I did. Your kids will benefit when you feel more empowered to guide them through this stage of life. Guest Info: Dr. Whitney Casares is a pediatrician, author, public health expert, and autism mom. Learn more at www.modernmommydoc.com This episode is sponsored by: Mightier: Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges. Learn more and try it free for 30 days at ⁠mightier.com/theautismdad⁠. Autism 360 The Autism 360 program helps parents become confident leaders in their child’s care by providing expert-led coaching and support. Learn more at autism360.com Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides inflatable and permanent safety beds for kids with special needs. Their products offer peace of mind and better sleep—for the whole family. They even help navigate insurance. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com Connect with me: Instagram: @theautismdad Blog and resources: https://www.theautismdad.com Support the Podcast: https://listen.theautismdad.com

April is Autism Awareness Month, and this episode with Dr. Tay is one of the most important conversations I’ve had. We dive into how autism shows up differently in girls—and why so many are missed or misdiagnosed. If you’re a parent, educator, or just want to better understand the nuances of autism, this one’s a must-listen.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Taylor Day (aka Dr. Tay), a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuroaffirming care for autistic kids—especially girls. We talk about how autism can look very different in girls compared to boys, why so many girls are misdiagnosed or missed altogether, and what parents can do to make sure their daughters get the support they need.Dr. Tay breaks down the most common signs of autism in girls, how masking can complicate the diagnostic process, and why co-occurring conditions like anxiety often delay a proper diagnosis. This conversation is full of insight and practical advice for parents and caregivers—especially those who feel like something’s going on but can’t quite get answers.What we talk about:Why autism is harder to spot in girlsMasking, camouflaging, and missed diagnosesWhat to look for if you suspect your daughter might be autisticThe role of anxiety and other co-occurring conditionsHow to advocate for your child when doctors don’t listenGetting evaluations and choosing the right providerAbout Dr. Tay:Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist and the founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. She specializes in early diagnosis and support for autistic kids, with a focus on neuroaffirming care for girls who often present differently. She’s also the host of the Evolve with Dr. Tay podcast and creates free educational content for parents on social media.Website: drtaylorday.com Instagram: @the.dr.tay Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (available on all major platforms)About Me:I’m Rob Gorski, host of The Autism Dad Podcast. I’m a single dad to three amazing autistic kids and I’ve been sharing our journey for over 15 years to help support families like mine. Through my podcast, blog, and social media, I aim to educate, empower, and connect with parents raising neurodivergent kids.Website: theautismdad.com This episode is sponsored by Mightier.Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges.Learn more and try it free for 30 days at mightier.com/theautismdad.This episode is also sponsored by Safe Place Bedding.Safe Place Bedding makes affordable, portable safety beds for kids with special needs. These beds offer a secure, comfortable sleep space and are a game changer for families dealing with sleep issues or elopement concerns. Safe Place also helps parents navigate insurance so you may not have to pay out of pocket.Visit safeplacebedding.com to learn more and check your insurance coverage.

Today’s episode is full of joy and Minecraft magic! Rob is joined by a very special guest, Aria. Aria is Kelly's 8 year old daughter with autism. Fresh off seeing the new Minecraft Movie, Aria shares her thoughts, favorite moments, and tips for parents wondering if it’s a good pick for their kids. They also dive deep into the game itself—breaking down game modes, favorite mobs, plushies, add-ons, and the endless creativity that makes Minecraft such a hit for kids and grownups alike.Whether you're a longtime Minecraft fan or just curious what the hype is about, this lighthearted conversation is guaranteed to make you smile. Aria, you're amazing, and we’re all so proud of you!🎮 Topics Covered:Aria’s honest review of the Minecraft Movie (spoiler-light)Game modes in Minecraft (survival, creative, hardcore, and more)Minecraft add-ons, plushies, and lava chickensDifferences between Java and Bedrock editionsWhy Minecraft is great for all agesThis week’s episode is sponsored by:🛏 Safe Place BeddingIf your child struggles with sleep due to sensory needs or safety concerns, Safe Place Bedding can help. Their customizable, medically necessary bed enclosures offer peace of mind—and they even help families navigate insurance. Learn more about their brand-new permanent model, the Safe Place 300, which now includes monitoring features.👉 Visit safeplacebedding.com for more info.🧠 Autism 360Autism 360 is an all-in-one, parent-driven program built to help families raising autistic kids get expert support in key areas like behavior, communication, sensory needs, and more. It’s flexible, affordable, and guided by professionals who get it—because many of them are parents too.👉 Learn more at autism360.com—Connect with Rob:🌐 TheAutismDad.com📸 https://instagram.com/theautismdadIf you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to leave a rating, share with a friend, and let Aria know she did a great job!

In this special Autism Acceptance Month episode, I’m re-sharing an important and personal conversation with my oldest son, Gavin.Gavin is 25 years old, autistic, and immunocompromised. In this episode, we talk about his journey toward independent living and why he’s choosing to move into a group home. Gavin shares his thoughts, hopes, fears, and goals—including launching his own YouTube channel and building a sustainable future for himself.We discuss:What Gavin is looking for in a group homeHealth and hygiene concerns due to his compromised immune systemThe emotional challenges of touring potential homesGavin’s budgeting process and side-hustle plansHis passion for gaming and creating a relaxed, inclusive online spaceThis is a real, unfiltered conversation about growing up, letting go, and navigating life with autism. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or self-advocate, I hope this episode helps you feel seen and less alone.🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this.Want to support the podcast or be a guest?Visit theautismdad.com for more info, contact links, or to explore sponsorship opportunities.This episode is sponsored by:🛏️ Safe Place BeddingIf your child struggles with sleep, safety, or elopement, Safe Place Bedding offers custom in-home safety beds that can truly make a difference. Their beds are portable, insurable, and now include new monitoring options for added peace of mind. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more and explore their newest model—the Safe Place 300.🧦 Parker & TaliaParker & Talia creates tag-free, sensory-friendly essentials that help kids feel comfortable and confident. Founded by a fellow autism mom, their clothes are soft, inclusive, and made with love. Get 10% off your order with code THEAUTISMDAD at parkerandtalia.com.

Welcome to Part 1 of a powerful three-part series focused on special needs financial planning. In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Katy Bryan, a Chartered Special Needs Consultant from Skylight Financial Group. Katy brings over 14 years of experience helping more than 250 families plan for their future. We’re breaking things down into real, understandable steps—starting with the basics.This episode focuses on the early stages of the journey—from diagnosis (or even before) to preparing for the unexpected. We talk about what parents should start thinking about when they first realize their child may need lifelong support, and how to start planning financially without being overwhelmed.What We Cover:Why financial planning matters early in the special needs journeyCommon challenges families face right after diagnosisHow and when to reach out to your county Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD) Understanding Medicaid, Social Security, and how income affects eligibilityWhat a waiver is and why you want to get on the list ASAPNavigating stigma, burnout, and the lack of direction many parents feelThe emotional toll of those early years—and why it’s okay if you’re not thinking long-term yetWhen to start thinking about special needs trusts, STABLE accounts, and other toolsKaty helps parents shift from survival mode to building a solid financial foundation for the future—one step at a time. Whether your child just received a diagnosis or you're several years into the journey, this episode is full of validation, guidance, and real-world advice.Guest Info:Katy BryanChartered Special Needs Consultant, Skylight Financial Group📧 Email: KBryan@financialguide.com🌐 Licensed to work nationwideThis Week’s SponsorsSafe Place BeddingGive your child the gift of better sleep with Safe PlaceBedding’s travel-friendly, sensory-friendly sleep solutions.Visit: https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdadAutism 360:Autism 360 is a neuro-affirming app for parents of autistic children, offering 24/7 expert guidance, personalized plans, and practical support for daily challenges. Trusted by thousands, it provides affordable, real-time help. Use the code “theautismdad” to save 10%https://smartlink2.metricool.com/public/smartlink/autism-360-robtheautismdadMightierMightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally throughbiofeedback-based video games.Learn more & save 10% with code 'theautismdad22': https://www.mightier.comIf you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave areview, and share it with someone who might benefit. Your support helps bringmore resources to families like yours. Thanks for being here, and I’ll talk toyou next week! Disclaimer:Kathryn Bryan is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC.OSJ: 1956 Carter Road, Suite 200, Cleveland, OH 44113 • (216) 621-5680CA Insurance License number: 4175736The information in this podcast is not a recommendation and is not intended as financial, tax, legal or estate planning advice. You should seek guidance from a qualified financial advisor, accountant, and attorney regarding your personal situation.CRN202803-8296799