The Autism Dad

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 parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children.Key Takeaways: - Creating Neurodiverse Work Environments: Anthony explains how companies can build effective neurodiversity programs that not only provide opportunities but also support individuals through personalized accommodations.- The Importance of Early Preparation: Both Rob and Anthony stress the importance of starting employment preparation early, teaching skills and building confidence throughout childhood and adolescence.- Overcoming Barriers to Employment: Anthony highlights the success stories of neurodivergent individuals thriving in various industries, from software engineering to healthcare.- Personal Growth and Advocacy: Anthony and Rob share their personal journeys—how understanding their own neurodivergence has shaped their perspectives as parents and advocates.Resources Mentioned: - CAI Neurodiverse Solutions: [cai.io](https://cai.io) - Autism Society of America - Ohio's Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) program Connect with Anthony Pacillio: Website: cai.ioFollow Rob Gorski: Website: https://www.theautismdad.comInstagram: @TheAutismDadThis Weeks SponsorsDani PlanIntroducing Dani Plan, an innovative online tool for organizing and managing care for individuals with special needs. Created by Joel and Debbie Pearlman, this platform lets you securely store medical details, daily routines, and emergency contacts in one place, making care transitions seamless. Try it free for 14 days, and use code "theautismdad" to save 25% on your first year at daniplan.com/theautismdad.Autism 360Autism 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%Autism 360Learn More: 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%.

Dr. Robert Melillo, a leading expert in developmental functional neurology, discusses ADHD and autism's true neurological roots. He explains the distinct types of ADHD and how brain imbalances can be corrected. The conversation highlights innovative treatments like neuroplasticity and brain balancing, debunking myths around ADHD being linked to laziness. Dr. Melillo emphasizes that ADHD and autism are functional issues, and he offers practical advice for parents to support their children's development in a holistic way.

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 the pressure to "fix" things when raising a special needs child.- Danielle’s progress today as a sweet, easygoing adult despite early challenges.Learn More:- Discover the Dani Plan at https://www.daniplan.comAbout Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski is a renowned autism advocate, blogger, and podcaster known as The Autism Dad. With over a decade of experience raising three autistic children, Rob’s mission is to provide support, education, and validation to parents of children with autism and other special needs. Through his blog and podcast, Rob shares personal stories, interviews with experts and other parents, and practical advice to help families navigate the challenges of autism. Rob has been featured on major media outlets, including CNN and BBC Worldwide.About Joel Pearlman:Joel Pearlman is a devoted husband and father from Michigan. As the father of three children, including his 24-year-old daughter, Danielle, who is non-verbal and has autism, Joel understands the unique challenges of parenting a child with special needs. Together with his wife, Debbie, Joel co-created the Dani Plan, a comprehensive digital platform designed to help parents document and organize the essential care details for their special needs child. Joel is passionate about empowering other parents to feel prepared and confident as they navigate their child’s future.This Weeks Sponsors:Autism 360Autism 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%Autism 360GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.

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.Key Takeaways:• Shaun's Story: Shaun opens up about raising three children, two of whom are autistic. His youngest was diagnosed at age two, while his older son received an autism diagnosis at 14 after years of being misdiagnosed with ADHD.• Navigating the Diagnostic Process: Shaun reflects on the hurdles families face when seeking a diagnosis. He shares how their experiences differed between his sons due to waitlists and changing awareness over the years.• The Emotional Journey of Acceptance: Shaun describes the difficult emotional process of coming to terms with his children's diagnoses. He speaks candidly about his initial resistance, the grieving process for the future he envisioned, and how his perspective shifted thanks to his wife's unwavering strength.• Fostering Inclusion and Community: Shaun highlights the importance of pushing for inclusion, both at home and in the school system. He shares stories about how his sons have thrived with the support of inclusive programs like Special Olympics and unified sports teams.• Creating Change through Advocacy: Shaun and his wife didn’t stop at raising awareness within their community—they took action. Shaun discusses the founding of Ride for Autism Awareness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising autism awareness through events like motorcycle rides and off-road vehicle rallies. What started as a family initiative has grown into a powerful force for autism advocacy across multiple states.About Ride for Autism Awareness:Shaun’s nonprofit, Ride for Autism Awareness, hosts events like motorcycle rides and off-road vehicle rallies to raise awareness for autism and support families in their local community. The organization donates to schools, funds inclusive programs, and builds Picture Communication Boards to help nonverbal children communicate.Get Involved:To learn more about Ride for Autism Awareness or to participate in an event, visit their website at rideforautismawareness.org. You can also follow them on social media using the hashtag #Ride4AA.Connect with The Autism Dad:For more from Rob Gorski and to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes, visit theautismdad.com or follow on social media.Support the Podcast:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Sharing with friends and family is also a great way to support the show.This Weeks SponsorsLearn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: 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 Description:In this episode, I chat with Megan Brannan, mom to a five-year-old boy named Rory, diagnosed with autism. Megan shares her journey from early concerns about Rory’s speech delay to facing long waitlists for a diagnosis, all while navigating COVID-19 hurdles. She emphasizes the importance of trusting parental instincts when developmental delays are present, especially when medical professionals encourage a “wait and see” approach.We also dive into Rory’s struggles with ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) and how sensory challenges impact his eating. Megan shares how feeding therapy, though slow, has been a crucial step in helping Rory expand his list of safe foods. If you’ve ever felt unheard as a parent or struggled to navigate your child’s needs, this episode offers valuable insights and support.Key Topics:- Recognizing early signs of autism in speech delays.- Megan’s persistence in switching pediatricians after feeling dismissed.- Long waitlists for autism diagnoses and how to manage the system.- Rory’s journey with ARFID and the role of feeding therapy.- Advocating for your child’s needs, including adding sensory challenges to IEPs.- The emotional journey of seeing a child hit milestones, like talking.Actionable Tips for Parents:1. Trust your gut: If you feel something’s not right with your child’s development, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion.2. Explore private testing options: If waitlists are long, consider alternative routes like private assessments or consulting school psychologists.3. Leverage IEPs: Work with your child’s school to include food-related support in their IEP if sensory issues impact eating.Resources:- Help Me Grow: https://www.helpmegrow.org – Early intervention services.- Akron Children’s Hospital: https://www.akronchildrens.org – Feeding therapy and pediatric services.About Megan:Megan Brannan is a devoted mom to her 5-year-old son, Rory, who has Autism and ARFID. After noticing developmental delays at 15 months, Megan faced a long and challenging journey to secure an Autism diagnosis. Rory’s ARFID, driven by sensory and anxiety issues, limits him to a small selection of safe foods. With the support of her family and therapists, Megan is dedicated to helping Rory grow and thrive despite these challenges.Instagram: @MegBranRelated Episodes:- Understanding Autism in Girls- Feeding Therapy and ARFID: What You Need to KnowConnect with The Autism Dad:- Website: https://www.theautismdad.com- Instagram: @theautismdad – https://www.instagram.com/theautismdadThis Weeks SponsorsLearn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: 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, host Rob Gorski talks with returning guest Amber Arrington, founder of Autism Savvy. Together, they explore the challenges and successes of helping their adult autistic children transition into independent living, whether through group homes or other arrangements. Rob shares his experience with his son Gavin, while Amber discusses her son Tyson’s journey.They cover different living arrangements for adults with autism, ranging from group homes to more independent living, and discuss the emotional and practical aspects of these decisions. This episode is a must-listen for parents preparing their autistic children for adulthood.Key Discussion Points:- Choosing the right living arrangement for adult children with autism- Various options like group homes, residential facilities, and independent living with support- Navigating disability agencies, social security, and guardianship- Emotional hurdles of letting go as a parentQuotes from the Episode:"Assume from the moment your child is born, they’ll be an adult someday and will need to exist without you." — Rob Gorski"Thriving looks different for every person. It’s important to remember that." — Amber ArringtonAbout Amber Arrington:Amber Arrington is the founder of Autism Savvy and a mother of six, three of whom are autistic. She provides practical advice to help parents navigate the autism journey. Connect with Amber on Instagram @AutismSavvy or visit www.autismsavvy.com.About Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski, known as The Autism Dad, is a blogger, podcast host, and autism advocate. As a father of three autistic children, Rob offers personal insights and support for parents. Connect with Rob at www.theautismdad.com.Listen and Subscribe:Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts. Please leave a review if you find the episode helpful!This Weeks SponsorsLearn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: 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 Description:In this insightful episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski is joined by Dr. Taylor Day, a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuroaffirming care for autistic children and their families. Dr. Day offers her expertise on a topic that is critical yet often misunderstood—how autism presents differently in girls compared to boys. Together, they explore the challenges of diagnosing autism in girls, why they often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, and how parents can navigate these complexities to ensure their daughters receive the help they need.This episode is packed with valuable information for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of autism, especially as it relates to girls. Dr. Tay shares her experiences from her practice, shedding light on common misconceptions, the importance of early diagnosis, and practical steps parents can take if they suspect their daughter might be on the autism spectrum.Key Topics Discussed:- Differences in how autism presents in girls vs. boys- Challenges in diagnosing girls with autism- The impact of masking in girls and how it complicates the diagnostic process- Common signs of autism in girls that parents should watch for- The importance of trusting your gut as a parent and seeking second opinions if necessary- How co-occurring conditions like anxiety can delay an autism diagnosis- Practical advice on seeking evaluations and choosing the right providersAbout Dr. Taylor Day:Dr. Taylor Day, known as Dr. Tay on social media, is a licensed psychologist who specializes in diagnosing and supporting children with autism, particularly girls who may present differently than boys. She is the founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care, where she focuses on providing neuroaffirming care, including early diagnosis and intervention, as well as therapy services. Dr. Day is also the host of the podcast Evolve with Dr. Tay, where she offers free education on neurodiversity and autism. Through her practice and online presence, Dr. Day empowers parents to support their children in an affirming and effective way.Contact Information:Website: drtaylorday.comInstagram: @the.dr.tayPodcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (available on major podcast platforms)About Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski, also known as The Autism Dad, is a father of three autistic children and a prominent voice in the autism community. Through his blog, podcast, and social media, Rob shares his personal experiences and provides support and validation to other parents raising children with disabilities. His work has been featured on CNN, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, and more. Rob is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of families affected by autism.Contact Information:Website: theautismdad.comSocial Media Links: The Autism Dad Link HubSubscribe and Stay Connected:Never miss an episode—subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite podcast app, and stay tuned for more episodes that offer insights, advice, and support for parents navigating the autism journey.Learn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: 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 Description: In this compelling episode, Rob Gorski, host of The Autism Dad Podcast, sits down with Danusia Malina-Derben, a mother of ten and a successful business consultant, to discuss the complexities of balancing motherhood, especially when raising neurodiverse children, with a demanding career. Danusia shares her journey from being a mother to ten children, including neurodiverse triplets, to managing a thriving consultancy and podcasting career.Key Topics Covered: Balancing Motherhood and Career: Danusia dives into her experiences of managing a large family while leading a successful consultancy. She discusses the challenges and rewards of juggling both roles without compromising her personal or professional identity. Raising Neurodiverse Children: Danusia's candid conversation about her neurodiverse triplets offers invaluable insights into the unique challenges and triumphs of parenting children with autism and other neurodiverse conditions. The Impact of Societal Expectations: The discussion highlights the societal pressures placed on mothers, especially those with careers, and how these expectations differ from those faced by fathers. Danusia and Rob explore the double standards that exist and the importance of redefining these roles. Navigating Meltdowns and Professional Obligations: Danusia shares real-life examples of how she has had to balance professional responsibilities with the immediate needs of her children, particularly during meltdowns, and how she navigates these situations with grace and transparency. The Role of Privilege in Parenting: Both hosts discuss the privileges they hold and how these impact their experiences as parents, especially in the context of single parenting and gender expectations. Quotes: "Motherhood and a successful career should not be mutually exclusive." - Danusia Malina-Derben "Society is not built to support women who want to have it all, but we must challenge that." - Danusia Malina-Derben Resources: Danusia Malina-Derben’s Website: DanusiaMalinaDerben.com Books by Danusia Malina-Derben: Noise: A Manifesto Modernizing Motherhood Spunk: A Manifesto Modernizing Fatherhood Connect with Us: Rob Gorski - The Autism Dad: Website Follow on Instagram: @theautismdad Listen to The Autism Dad Podcast: Podcast Link Learn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: 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 Description:In this episode of *The Autism Dad Podcast*, Rob Gorski interviews Eric MacKinnon, founder of Grokkoil, an AI-powered math tutoring platform tailored for kids with special needs like ADHD, dyslexia, and autism. Discover how Grokkoil is transforming special education by personalizing math learning experiences, diagnosing learning gaps, and accelerating progress by up to four times. Eric shares his journey from struggling in math to developing Grokkoil and discusses its impact on students and their families. Don’t miss this deep dive into how Grokkoil is helping special needs children excel in math.How Grokkoil Helps Special Needs Children Excel in Math:Grokkoil’s AI-driven platform addresses the unique learning needs of children with ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, and autism. By identifying learning gaps and customizing lessons, Grokkoil helps students master math concepts more effectively.The Role of AI in Personalized Math Tutoring:Grokkoil leverages expert systems and AI to adapt continuously to students' needs, ensuring they progress at their own pace. This method has proven particularly effective for children with special needs.Success Stories:Eric MacKinnon shares inspiring success stories of children who have improved their math skills with Grokkoil, demonstrating the platform's effectiveness in overcoming learning challenges.Guest Bio:Eric MacKinnon, a tech entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience, developed Grokkoil after overcoming his own struggles with math. His platform has been especially effective for children with special needs, helping them achieve significant progress.Host Bio:Rob Gorski, known as *The Autism Dad*, is a blogger, podcast host, and advocate for parents of children with disabilities. His work, inspired by raising three autistic children, has reached a global audience and earned recognition from major media outlets.Connect with Rob Gorski:The Autism Dad Blog (https://www.theautismdad.com)Links & Resources:Grokkoil Website (https://www.grokkoil.com)Try Grokkoil with a 7-day free trial: Sign Up Here (https://www.grokkoil.com/signup)Contact Eric MacKinnon: Contact Form (https://www.grokkoil.com/contact)Learn More About AngelSense:AngelSense ensures safe transportation and transitions for kids. Get a free device with every new subscription this Back to School season. Visit AngelSenseLearn More: 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%.

Introduction:In this episode, we dive deep into strategies for helping children with autism navigate picky eating and sensory challenges, especially as they transition back to school. Our guest, Brittyn Coleman, a registered dietitian specializing in autism, shares invaluable tips and insights.Summary:Brittyn Coleman discusses the common challenges parents face with picky eaters and autistic children with sensory issues, particularly during the school year. She emphasizes the importance of preparing ahead, working with schools to create supportive environments, and maintaining open communication with teachers. Brittyn also shares practical tips for making mealtime less stressful both at home and school.Key Points and Takeaways:- Understanding the sensory challenges kids face at school.- Strategies for working with schools to support your child's eating habits.- Importance of including nutrition in IEPs.- Tips for preparing children for the sensory impacts of school meals.- Effective communication with teachers to ensure they understand your child's needs.- Practical advice for packing lunches that children will eat.Guest Introduction:Brittyn Coleman is a registered dietitian specializing in children on the autism spectrum. She supports families in expanding their child's diet in a sensory-friendly, child-led manner. Brittyn is the founder of the Nourishing Autism Collective, providing resources and community support for parents.Relevant Links:- Brittyn Coleman's Website and Instagram: https://autismdietitian.com - Instagram- The Nurishing Autism Collective Membership- Free Quiz for Parents: https://autismdietitian.com/quizQuotes and Highlights:- "Lunchtime is not the time to try new foods. It's the time to send foods that your child will eat." – Brittyn Coleman- "Communicate with your child's teachers to ensure they understand and respect your child's eating needs." – Rob GorskiEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to our podcast and leave areview on Apple Podcasts! Visit our website for more resources and support.Mentioned in this episode:Learn More: MightierMightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier. Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.Visit MightierLearn More About AngelSenseAs the new school year approaches, AngelSense helps parents track their loved ones in real-time, ensuring safe transportation, smooth transitions, and peace of mind. It supports navigation through school breaks, lunches, classroom changes, and after-school activities. The auto-pickup speakerphone allows caregivers to address concerns instantly. This Back to School season, get a free device with every new subscription. Protect your loved ones with AngelSense, making independence and safety achievable. For more information click the link below.Visit AngelSense