The Autism Dad

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

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