The Autism Dad

This week’s episode is deeply personal and incredibly important.I’m rereleasing this conversation from a previous season because the message still resonates just as strongly—and it’s something every parent, educator, and professional working with non-speaking kids should hear.What started as a simple audio test with my son Emmett turned into one of the most powerful and emotional conversations we’ve ever had. We were just testing out some new podcasting gear, but Emmett opened up in a way I hadn’t expected.He shared vivid memories of what life was like before he could speak—how it felt, what he understood, and how frustrating and lonely it was to be trapped in his own thoughts with no way to communicate.We talk about:• Emmett’s memories of being non-speaking as a toddler• The emotional toll of not being understood• How he experienced the world, despite being assumed “incompetent” by some• What it felt like when he finally broke through and began to speak• The importance of presuming competence in non-speaking individuals• Simple things we did to support communication and why they mattered• Emmett’s advice to parents trying to connect with their non-speaking kidsThis conversation is a reminder that language doesn’t equal intelligence. Just because a child can’t speak doesn’t mean they aren’t listening, feeling, thinking, or understanding.I’m so proud of Emmett for opening up about this. His voice is one that needs to be heard, and I’m excited to continue this father-son dialogue in future episodes.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.Follow me online:• Podcast Website: listen.theautismdad.com• Blog: theautismdad.com• Instagram: @theautismdad• Facebook: facebook.com/theautismdad

Episode OverviewIn this solo episode, I dive into a topic that’s been weighing on my heart—validation in the autism community. There’s a growing divide between those who see autism as a superpower and those who experience it as a significant disability. Both perspectives are valid, but we need to recognize that no single experience defines autism.Key takeaways:Autism exists on a vast spectrum, and no two experiences are alike.Some individuals thrive and see autism as a strength, while others face profound challenges.We must validate and respect all perspectives without dismissing or diminishing anyone’s experience.Parents and autistic individuals alike should be able to share their personal journeys without fear of judgment.Unity within the autism community is crucial to advocating for better understanding and support.Why This MattersMany parents and autistic individuals feel unseen when their experiences are dismissed. Whether autism is empowering or disabling, every perspective matters. By supporting each other and allowing diverse narratives to coexist, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.Resources and LinksConnect with me: TheAutismDad.comJoin my private parenting support group: theautismdad.com/supportListen Now:Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podcast WebsiteWant to Sponsor or Be a Guest?Contact me at theautismdad.com/contact.Let’s continue this conversation. What’s your experience with validation in the autism community? Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media.New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and leave a review if this episode resonated with you.Follow on social media:Instagram | FacebookThanks for tuning in. See you next week.This Week’s Sponsor: Safe Place BeddingIf you’re looking for a safe, comfortable, and travel-friendly sleeping solution for your autistic child, check out Safe Place Bedding. Their durable, inflatable safety beds help create a secure sleep environment at home or on the go. Designed by special needs parents, these beds offer peace of mind and better rest for the whole family.Learn more and shop now at SafePlaceBedding.com.

Episode SummaryDivorce is never easy, and when neurodivergent children areinvolved, the challenges can be even more complex. In Part 1, we explored theunique difficulties of co-parenting neurodivergent kids, the importance ofroutine and consistency, and strategies for reducing trauma and increasingstability.Now, in Part 2, we’re tackling listener-submitted questions about co-parenting,communication struggles, and how to help kids through the transition. Dr. MikkiLee is back to provide expert guidance, and I share personal lessons learnedfrom my own experience. Whether it’s handling different parenting styles,managing transitions between households, or navigating co-parentingdisagreements, this episode is all about practical solutions that prioritize achild's well-being.Key Topics in This Episode:- How to talk to kids about divorce in a way they understand- Easing transitions between households to reduce stress andanxiety- What to do when co-parents have different parenting styles- How to handle resistance to change in neurodivergent kids- Why therapy is essential for both parents and childrenpost-divorce- The importance of self-care for parents and settinghealthy boundaries- Lessons learned: What I wish I had done differentlyGuest BioDr. Mikki Lee is a licensed psychologist and certifiedschool psychologist based in New York City. She specializes in working withneurodivergent children and their families, offering psychological testing andtherapy to help support children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.Resources & Links- Learn more about Dr. Mikki Lee: https://drmikkilee.com- Visit The Autism Dad website for more resources:https://www.theautismdad.com- Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/TheAutismDad- Like my page on Facebook:https://facebook.com/TheAutismDad- Join my private parent support group:https://theautismdad.com/supportListen & Subscribe- Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-dad/id1450723980- Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/0Kl8mzCI7sYHzLNVhmRWTo?si=-J4WsX96Sx20HKtBxl3fuQ- Official Podcast Website: https://listen.theautismdad.comThis 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/theautismdadThe Unbreakable BoyThis inspiring film about resilience and love hits theaterson February 21st!Get your tickets now: https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movieMightierMightier 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!

Divorce is never easy, and when neurodivergent children are involved, the challenges can be even more complex. In this episode, I open up about my own divorce for the first time and discuss how it has affected me as a parent. My kids will also be sharing their experiences in future episodes because they deserve a voice in this conversation.Joining me today is Dr. Mikki Lee, a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist with extensive experience working with neurodivergent children and their families. Together, we explore the unique challenges of co-parenting neurodivergent kids, the importance of routine and consistency, and strategies to help families navigate transitions with less trauma and more stability.This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Next week, we’ll be answering your questions about co-parenting and divorce in neurodivergent families.Key Topics in This Episode• The impact of divorce on neurodivergent kids and why their experience may differ from neurotypical children• Common co-parenting challenges and why different parenting styles become more apparent post-separation• Why consistency is key and how small differences like bedtime routines can create stress• Setting expectations while balancing empathy and structure• Why parents often overcompensate out of guilt and how this can backfire• The importance of self-care for parents and why you need to take care of yourself to be the best parent possibleGuest BioDr. Mikki Lee is a licensed psychologist and certified school psychologist based in New York City. She specializes in working with neurodivergent children and their families, offering psychological testing and therapy to help support children with autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities.Learn more about Dr. Mikki Lee at DrMikkiLee.com.Resources & Links• Learn more about Dr. Mikki Lee: DrMikkiLee.com• Visit The Autism Dad website for more resources: TheAutismDad.com• Follow me on Instagram: Instagram.com/TheAutismDad• Like my page on Facebook: Facebook.com/TheAutismDad• Join my private parent support group: TheAutismDad.com/SupportListen & Subscribe• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-autism-dad/id1450723980• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Kl8mzCI7sYHzLNVhmRWTo?si=-J4WsX96Sx20HKtBxl3fuQ• Official Podcast Website: https://listen.theautismdad.comNext Week:In Part 2, we’ll be answering listener questions about co-parenting, communication struggles, legal considerations, and helping kids through the transition. Stay tuned.This weeks sponsors:If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with anyone who might benefit. Your support helps bring more resources to families like yours.A big thank you to our sponsors for their support: Safe Place Bedding: Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to give your child the gift of better sleep. @safeplacebedding @SafePlaceBedding The Unbreakable Boy: This inspiring film hits theaters on February 21st! Get your tickets now at https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movie @theunbreakableboymovie @theunbreakableboymovie Mightier: Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more at https://www.mightier.com/. Use code "theautismdad22" to save 10%. @mightierapp @mightierapp

Episode Summary:Join Rob Gorski, The Autism Dad, in a heartfelt conversation with Scott LeRette, author of "The Unbreakable Boy" and father to Austin, a young man with autism and osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). Scott shares his family's inspiring journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with unique needs.General Timeframes: Beginning: Scott describes his family's early experiences and the challenges of Austin's dual diagnoses. Mid-episode: Rob and Scott discuss the complexities of the autism community and the importance of acceptance and support. Towards the end: Rob and Scott share their personal experiences and the importance of finding humor and support in their journeys as autism dads. About the Guest:Scott LeRette is an autism dad and the author of "The Unbreakable Boy," a memoir about his family's journey with autism and OI. He's a dedicated advocate for his son, Austin, and has shared his experiences with audiences through his writing and public speaking. Scott's story highlights the power of love, humor, and faith in navigating the challenges of raising a child with unique needs. He's passionate about supporting other families and promoting understanding and acceptance within the autism community. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding: Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. The Unbreakable Boy: The Unbreakable Boy hits theaters on February 21! From the creators of Jesus Revolution and Wonder, this inspiring true story follows Austin, a boy with autism and brittle bone disease, whose joy and resilience transform his family. The film explores faith, hope, and the power of perspective. Don’t miss it! Get your tickets now at https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movie Autism 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. Visit https://s.mtrbio.com/autism-360-robtheautismdad to learn more. Call to Action:Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite podcast listening app. For more information on The Autism Dad Podcast, to share feedback, to be a guest, or inquire about sponsorship opportunities visit https://listen.theautismdad.comAbout the Host:Rob Gorski is The Autism Dad, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. He shares his experiences and insights on his podcast and website. Connect with him by visitinghttps://theautismdad.com.

Join Rob Gorski, The Autism Dad, and grief specialist Sylvia Moore Meyers as they discuss the challenges and strategies for helping neurodivergent kids navigate grief and loss. Sylvia, an autistic mom herself, shares her personal experiences and insights into how we can better support our children during difficult times.General Timeframes: Beginning: Rob and Sylvia discuss the challenges neurodivergent kids face with grief. Mid-episode: Sylvia explains how we can help kids understand and process grief, loss, and trauma. Towards the end: Rob and Sylvia discuss Sylvia's book, Gold Scars, and how it can help families navigate grief. About Sylvia Moore Meyers:Sylvia Moore Meyers is a grief specialist, coach, and author. She is also an autistic mom. She has a Master's degree in human services with a concentration in crisis and trauma and is currently working on her Ph.D. About "Gold Scars: The Truth About Grief, Loss, and Trauma and How to Beautifully Mend":"Gold Scars" is a book about Sylvia's personal experiences with grief, loss, and trauma, including the loss of her child and her own journey of healing. The book also explores the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals when navigating grief. Where to get the book:You can purchase "Gold Scars" from the following retailers: Morgan James Publishing: https://www.morgan-james-publishing.com  Books-A-Million: https://www.booksamillion.com/  Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/  Sylvia recommends purchasing from Morgan James Publishing to support her directly.Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding: Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. The Unbreakable Boy: The Unbreakable Boy hits theaters on February 21! From the creators of Jesus Revolution and Wonder, this inspiring true story follows Austin, a boy with autism and brittle bone disease, whose joy and resilience transform his family. Starring Zachary Levi and Meghann Fahy, the film explores faith, hope, and the power of perspective. Don’t miss it! Get your tickets now at https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movie Mightier: Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit https://www.mightier.com/. Use code "theautismdad22" to save 10%. Call to Action:Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite podcast listening app. For more information on The Autism Dad Podcast, to share feedback, to be a guest, or inquire about sponsorship opportunities visit https://listen.theautismdad.comAbout the Host:Rob Gorski is The Autism Dad, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. He shares his experiences and insights on his podcast and website. Connect with him by visitinghttps://theautismdad.com.

Join Rob Gorski, The Autism Dad, in a conversation with Dr. Pamela Feliciano, Scientific Director of SPARK for Autism. Dr. Feliciano, an autism mom herself, shares her personal journey and insights into SPARK's groundbreaking research. Discover how SPARK is connecting families with researchers to accelerate breakthroughs in autism understanding and support. Learn how you can get involved and contribute to this vital initiative.General Timeframes: Beginning of the episode: In the first 10 minutes, Dr. Feliciano shares her personal journey as an autism mom and discusses her son Dylan's progress. Mid-episode: Around the 20-minute mark, the conversation shifts to SPARK's mission and goals, exploring how the initiative is advancing autism research. Towards the end: In the final segment, you'll hear how families can get involved with SPARK and contribute to this important work. Links: SPARK for Autism: https://sparkforautism.org/ The Autism Dad Podcast: https://listen.theautismdad.com Special thanks to our sponsors: Safe Place Bedding: Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. Autism 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% Mightier: Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit https://www.mightier.com/. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%. Call to Action:Visit SPARKforAutism.org today to learn more and join the movement!Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite podcast listening app. For more information on The Autism Dad Podcast, to share feedback, to be a guest, or inquire about sponsorship opportunities, visit https://listen.theautismdad.comAbout the Host:Rob Gorski is The Autism Dad, a passionate advocate for autism awareness and acceptance. He shares his experiences and insights on his podcast and website. Connect with him by visiting https://theautismdad.com.

Episode Summary:In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Taylor Day, a licensed child psychologist specializing in autism evaluations and therapy via telehealth. We dive into the growing accessibility of remote autism evaluations, how telehealth compares to in-person assessments, and how it helps families stuck on long waitlists. Dr. Day shares insights from her personal and professional experiences, the importance of supporting the whole family, and why we must shift the conversation around parental emotions and autism diagnoses.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:• How telehealth is transforming autism evaluations• Why remote assessments can be just as effective as in-person visits• The role of parental emotions and why grief and acceptance can coexist• How parents can navigate diagnosis waitlists and start supporting their child now• The importance of presuming competence in autistic childrenAbout My Guest:Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed child psychologist specializing in autism evaluations and therapy. She brings a unique perspective as both a clinician and a sibling of an autistic individual. Through her practice, she helps families across the U.S. access telehealth evaluations and support services without long wait times.Connect with Dr. Taylor Day:• Website: DrTaylorDay.com• Instagram: @the.dr.tay• Podcast: Evolved with Dr. TaySponsor Message:This episode is brought to you by: Safe Place Bedding: Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. Mightier: Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit https://www.mightier.com/. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%. Resources & Links:• Learn more about autism evaluations via telehealth → DrTaylorDay.com• Follow me on Instagram → @theautismdad• Join my private online parenting support group → Join Here• Subscribe to my podcast for more episodes like this → Listen on Your Favorite PlatformSupport the Show:If you enjoy The Autism Dad Podcast, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or sharing this episode with your community. Your support helps more families find the resources they need!

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 understanding. Rob and Sara explore the power of sharing stories, the importance of meeting kids where they are, and finding joy in everyday triumphs. Whether you're an autism parent or want to learn from different perspectives, this episode is packed with insights, validation, and hope. Listen now and join the conversation about building a more inclusive, compassionate world.Links and Resources:- Connect with Sara on Instagram: @Sara_Hast_- Check out Sara's clothing line, Hashtags: @HastHouse- Follow Rob Gorski for more inspiring content: theautismdad.comThis Week's Sponsors:Safe Place BeddingSleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere.Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest.Circle Care ServicesCircle Care Services offers personalized ABA therapy for children with autism in New Jersey and Georgia, providing support at home, in daycares, or clinics. Their skilled team partners with parents to build confidence and unlock each child’s potential.Visit circlecareservices.com or call (877) 460-1104.MightierMightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.

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 placement options and navigating the IEP process.·        - Building a collaborative approach between families and educators.·        - The role of self-care for parents and caregivers.Whether you’re a parent at the beginning of this journey or further along, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories to inspire and guide you.Resources Mentioned:- Action Behavior Centers: Learn more about their Academy program and support for autistic children.- The Autism Dad Podcast: Explore more episodes and resources for autism parenting.Connect with Us:Host: Rob Gorski - The Autism DadGuest: Jacqueline Baker, BCBA (Action Behavior Centers)Call to Action:If you enjoyed this episode or found it helpful, please share it with your friends, leave a review, or tag us on social media! Your support helps us create more valuable content for families like yours.This Week's Sponsors:Safe Place BeddingSleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere.Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest.MightierMightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.