Autism Parenting Secrets

Welcome to Episode 210 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Dr. Suzanne Goh, MD, BCBA, is our guest this week, and we delved into the potential root causes of autism, emphasizing the importance of personalized, holistic care. She is cofounder and chief medical officer of Cortica, the largest provider of comprehensive health services for autism in the United States. Dr. Goh is a graduate of Harvard University, Oxford University, and Harvard Medical School and currently serves as a faculty member of the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs.In this discussion, we discussed groundbreaking treatments like neuromodulation and the need for collaboration among medical, developmental, and behavioral professionals. Her book Magnificent Minds - The NEW Whole Child Approach to Autism was just released in April 2024, and it’s all about empowering families and providing hope. The secret this week is…Time Is BrainYou'll Discover:A Book To Get You On The Right Track (3:52)The Approach You Want To Take (6:41)Why A Root Cause Focus Matters So Much (10:04)Why Specialists Aren’t Enough (13:38)Characteristics Of The Right Team (18:49)Why Time Is Brain (21:41)Why The Importance of Nutrition Is Undeniable (28:59)The Merits of Genetic Testing & Some Things To Let Go Of (35:44)A Key Test To Perform (38:22)Why The Brain Deserves Urgent Attention (41:12)Emerging Neuromodulation Techniques (46:08)About Our Guest:Suzanne Goh, MD, BCBA, is cofounder and chief medical officer of Cortica, the largest provider of comprehensive health services for autism in the United States. Cortica began in Goh’s one-room medical office in San Diego ten years ago and has grown to a staff of more than a thousand doctors and therapists who serve tens of thousands of autistic children and their families in the United States and abroad. A graduate of Harvard University, Oxford University, and Harvard Medical School, she is the former co-director of Columbia University's Developmental Neuropsychiatry Clinic for Autism, where she conducted research on the biological causes of autism and used brain imaging to identify patterns of neural circuitry and brain chemistry. Goh is currently a faculty member of the Medical Academy of Pediatric Special Needs and is a frequent speaker for parent advocacy organizations. She lives in San Diego, California, with her husband and two children.www.drsuzannegoh.comwww.corticacare.comReferences in The Episode:Medical Academy of Pediatric Special NeedsDr. Larry Rosen, Whole Child CenterAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 209 of Autism Parenting Secrets. The incredible Udo Erasmus returns to the show, and we dove deep into the world of healthy oils, the misconceptions around damaged oils, and the importance of proper packaging and refrigeration. Udo highlights the significance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for overall health. We also discussed the challenges of transitioning to healthier eating habits and the critical role parents play in setting an example. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that will transform your approach to food and wellness.The secret this week is…Certain FATS Are ESSENTIALYou'll Discover:The Worst Thing We Do To Our Food (4:09)The Three Nutrients That We Are Most Lacking (6:27)The Poisons We Must Avoid (10:55)Way To Help Digestion (14:11)Some Precautions To Take With Meat (19:03)What To Do If Your Child Only Eats Fried Foods (25:11)The Dangers of Damaged Oils (31:10)The Importance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 (45:35)The Potential Benefits of Omega-3 for Children on the Autism Spectrum (52:55)The Importance of Choosing High-Quality Oils (52:27)About Our Guest:The legendary Udo Erasmus is the co-founder of Udo’s Choice line, which can be found in Whole Foods and other health food stores worldwide. Udo designed the machinery for making oils with health in mind and pioneered flax oil, a billion-dollar industry. However, Udo walked a difficult path to become the man he is today. Being a child of war, Udo’s life began with intense struggle. As an adult, he got pesticide poisoning in 1980, leaving doctors at a loss regarding treatment. Deciding to take his health into his own hands, Udo began researching, and his discoveries led him to a passion for finding the answers to life’s big questions, which would hopefully one day bring him and the world peace.  Today, Udo is an acclaimed speaker and author of many books, including the best-selling Fats That Heal Fats That Kill, which has sold over 250,000 copies. He teaches at events hosted by Tony Robbins and Deepak Chopra, has keynoted an international brain health conference, and has traveled to over 30 countries to conduct thousands of live presentations, media interviews, and staff training impacting more than 25,000,000 lives with his message on oils, health, peace, nature, and human nature. Udo has an extensive education in biochemistry, genetics, biology, and nutrition, including a master’s degree in counseling psychology.https://udoerasmus.com/https://www.facebook.com/theudoerasmus/https://www.instagram.com/udoerasmus/References in The Episode:Udo Erasmus - Fats That Heal, Fats That Kill (book)  Udo's Choice (supplements)  Additional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 208 of Autism Parenting Secrets. We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Pejman Katiraei back to the show.Dr. K is one of the most highly-trained integrative pediatricians in the country, focused on helping children with learning and behavioral challenges. Since 2008, Dr. K has been practicing integrative and holistic medicine to help children with complex health challenges, and he has now helped thousands of children.Dr. K knows what children with learning and behavioral challenges go through because he was one of them. Until he learned how to heal himself, he was limited by anxiety, ADHD, and depression. The secret this week is…Brain Allergies Are In The WayYou'll Discover:A BIG Truth (7:33)The Vicious Cycle To Avoid (8:23)How High Histamine Wreaks Havoc (13:32)The Relationship Between MAST Cells & Microglia (19:44)“Sickness Behavior” (23:45)A Possible Explanation for Regression (28:36)Specific Supplements That Calm (36:18)A Primary Cause Of Mast Cell Activation (42:26)Useful Tests To Consider (50:08)About Our Guest:Dr. Pejman Katiraei is a board-certified pediatrician who is also boarded and fellowship-trained in integrative and holistic medicine. He completed his undergraduate at UCLA and then obtained his osteopathic medical degree at Western University of Health Sciences. He then went on to complete a pediatric residency at Loma Linda University, where he stayed on as teaching faculty for over 4 years. Dr. Katiraei has also completed two fellowships in integrative medicine, one with the University of Arizona and another under Dr. Kamyar Hedayat in a French model of integrative medicine called Endobiogeny. Dr. Katiraei is now in private practice in Santa Monica, where he focuses on helping children with severe behavioral challenges. He is also working with an amazing team to build Wholistic Minds, an online portal that helps parents understand the root cause of their child’s behavioral issues and what steps they can take to help resolve them.Wholistic KidsWholistic MindsReferences in The Episode:Autism Parenting Secrets - Episode 95: MOLD Is A Bigger Threat Than You ThinkHistamine in the Nervous System by Helmut L. HaasCase Study: Rapid Complete Recovery From An Autism Spectrum Disorder After Treatment of Aspergillus With The Antifungal Drugs Itraconazole And Sporanox by Dr. Sidney Baker and William ShawMiricaAlgonot Neuroprotek developed by Theoharis Theoharides MS, PhD, MD, FAAAAIHistamine Digest by Seeking HealthGenova Diagnostics Organic Acids TestMosaic Diagnostics Organic Acids TestAlletess Mold TestsAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 207 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Joining us this week is Leah Wilson, an attorney with a background in complex litigation and advocacy.  She is beyond passionate about children’s health and has researched and worked on child welfare issues for more than a decade.She closed her law practice in 2019 to start Stand For Health Freedom to promote parental rights and informed consent.In this episode, Leah shares insights on navigating the growing scope of genetic testing and the importance of being educated to make empowered choices. This discussion makes a case for knowledge over fear in protecting our children’s health. The secret this week is…Draw YOUR OWN ConclusionsYou'll Discover:The Origin Story of Stand For Health Freedom (2:24)Some Incredibly Important Questions To Ask (13:22)The Power of The TIMELINE (16:03)Concerns With Newborn Screening (23:05)How You Can Be Part of the Solution (33:01)About Our Guest:Leah Wilson, an attorney with a background in complex litigation and advocacy, has been dedicated to children's health and welfare for over a decade. Her journey began with the troubling overmedication of foster children, leading her to become a foster parent and court-appointed advocate. Leah's experiences revealed the pervasive use of psychiatric drugs in foster care and the state's strict vaccination mandates for foster families.Recognizing the broader impact of one-size-fits-all medical mandates on child welfare, Leah founded Stand for Health Freedom (SHF) in 2019 to advocate for all children nationwide. She holds a law degree from Saint Louis University and a dual bachelor's degree in political science and Spanish from Indiana University.Leah also owns MaxLiving Indy, a prominent natural health center, and is a well-known educator and speaker on holistic health, religious rights, and environmental issues.https://standforhealthfreedom.com/References in The Episode:Weston A Price FoundationAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 206 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week, we’re focusing on the perspective of the sibling of a child with autism.Their lives are absolutely impacted, yet their needs are often ignored or unintentionally not prioritized.Joining us is David Kartzinel, son of Dr. Jerry Kartzinel, who was on the show last month (Episode 199) and brother to Josh, who is on the autism spectrum.Nurturing the relationship with your child who is NOT on the spectrum can feel like another ball in the air you must juggle - and it can add to the overwhelm a parent feels.But you CAN meet the needs of all your children and you can also tap the tremendous positive force of siblings in supporting your child on the spectrum.The secret this week is…SIBLINGS Are the Greatest TherapistsYou'll Discover:What It’s Like Being The Sibling of a Child With Autism (3:20)The Role of Counseling and Self-Care for Siblings (8:46)The Impact of Autism on SIBLINGS (14:57)Techniques To Release Trauma (26:24)Specific Actions To Take With Your Child Who’s NOT On The Spectrum (32:34)Why It’s Never Too Late For Open Communication (45:15)How To Nurture Relationships In Challenging Times (52:25)About Our Guest:David Kartzinel is the office manager for Kartzinel Wellness Center with 15 years of experience and the Executive Director of Home Life Community.  He has spearheaded various technological changes and specializes in maximizing the practice’s efficiency.David received his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Union University in 2008.  David grew up with autism as a part of his life since he was 13 years old when his youngest brother Joshua was diagnosed at age 2 with autism.  He is passionate about helping siblings and parents understand the long-term effects of living with a special needs sibling, especially with regard to its impacts on the siblings, both negative and positive. Now an adult sibling with children of his own, he continues to work for his father helping families with children who have autism.  David brings a unique perspective that blends a very honest, realistic take with a good-natured optimism that focuses on ensuring a family learns to understand each other and work to improve and move forward together, whatever challenges the family may face.david@drjerryk.comwww.drjerryk.comReferences in The Episode:The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der KolkParenting From The Inside Out by Dan SiegelAdam Lane Smith Life CoachAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 205 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Our guest this week is Niall MacMillan, a father of three who understands the power of non-verbal communication.  Last year, his youngest son Ellison was diagnosed with autism and Niall and his family have been on a learning journey since then.Niall has millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram where he portrays a character that doesn't speak and communicates through facial expressions.And that’s been one KEY way he has developed a strong bond with his son, who is non-verbal.The secret this week is…Your FACE Can Inspire More SPEECHYou'll Discover:One Dad’s Perspective On The World of Autism (4:54)The Birth of a Viral Social Media Sensation (12:24)How To Supercharge Your Words (18:41)How Timers Can Help With Transitions (21:09)The Freedom Of Not Caring About What Others Think (25:11)The Facial Expression That DOESN’T Work (28:40)How To Work Your Way Into Your Child’s World (31:15)Practical Tips for Using Facial Expression (35:40)Where To See Facial Expression In Action (41:58)About Our Guest:Niall Macmillan is a dad of three children and one of social media’s most popular content creators, with 8.5 million followers across TikTok and Instagram. Niall has become Gen Z’s answer to Mr Bean thanks to his ‘Awkward’ social media character. Niall lives in the UK with his wife and three children and works a 9-5 job as well as creating his hilarious social media content, which has seen him work with the likes of Amazon, Sony, Universal, and the BBC.Niall MacMillan on TikTok (@niallmacmillan)Niall MacMillan on Instagram (@niallmacmillan)References in The Episode:Visuals2GoThorneAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 204 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Award-winning film and television producer Scott Steindorff joins us this week. Scott’s most recent film, Understanding Autism, was just released on PBS.In this documentary, Scott explores his own autism and seeks to reframe perceptions of neurodiversity by highlighting the talents and perspectives of autistic individuals across the spectrum. Scott is president of Stone Village Films and is known for his work as the executive producer of HBO’s Emmy-nominated "Station Eleven" and Golden Globe-winning "Empire Falls".This discussion delves into the importance of acceptance, understanding, and adapting to the unique needs of autistic children. Parents, schools, and communities can shift from trying to change these amazing kids to embracing their extraordinary ways. The secret this week is…Your ACCEPTANCE Is The KEYYou'll Discover:The Magic of Autistic LOVE (5:54)Why KINDNESS Works (10:30)The Thing Parents Need To Do The Most (14:50)An Approach That Just Isn’t Going To Work (19:00)Why Tough Love Is NOT Love (25:07)What Parents (And Schools) Need To Learn (29:50)The Magic of Going WITH Your Child’s Special Interests (35:30)About Our Guest:Scott Steindorff is an award-winning film and television producer and president of Stone Village Films. Known for his work as the executive producer of HBO’s Emmy-nominated "Station Eleven" and Golden Globe-winning "Empire Falls," Scott also produced the inspirational documentary "Understanding Autism." In this film, he explores his own autism and seeks to reframe perceptions of neurodiversity by highlighting the talents and perspectives of autistic individuals across the spectrum.Scott has a robust portfolio in the entertainment industry, having brought to life notable projects such as "Las Vegas," "Chef," "The Lincoln Lawyer," and more. Additionally, he is a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University, where he teaches about the intersection of emotions and art. Scott also serves as a board member for the ARC and advocates for neurodiversity, speaking at various educational institutions about the importance of emotional intelligence and confronting substance abuse.https://www.stonevillagefilms.com/References in The Episode:Understanding Autism DocumentaryAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 203 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week, we’re focusing on the transformative power of JOYFUL interactions with children on the autism spectrum.Our guest is Becky Damgaard, a senior Son-Rise Program teacher at the Autism Treatment Center of America. With over two decades of experience working with children on the autism spectrum, Becky shares invaluable insights about the underestimated power of play. In this discussion, we explore how simple, everyday interactions can significantly impact the lives of children with special needs. From the importance of face-making and physical play to the benefits of joining and paying attention to "green light" moments, Becky emphasizes how play isn’t just fun but a vital element in developing communication skills, cognitive abilities, and social connections. If you’re looking to deepen your connection with your child and understand how to be their greatest resource, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Stay tuned as we dive into these playful secrets that promise not only to enhance engagement but also to enrich relationships.The secret this week is …PLAY Is The WayYou'll Discover:Why PLAY Is The Gateway (5:13)The Backstory of The Autism Treatment Center of America (8:38)What Is IAS And Why You Want To Lengthen It (11:05)Ways To Forge A Deeper Connection With Your Child (18:48)How To Be ENTERTAINING (24:12)The Power Of The Three “E”s (31:27)Small Yet Powerful Shifts A Parent Can Make (36:41)A One-Of-A-Kind Weeklong Experience (39:41)About Our Guest:Becky Damgaard is a Senior Son-Rise Program Teacher at the Autism Treatment Center of America.  Her passion for supporting children with special needs began in an elementary school classroom, where she witnessed the misunderstood challenges faced by children on the autism spectrum.  Recognizing the need for a child-centered approach, she joined the Autism Treatment Center of America®, relocating from the UK to pursue her calling.  For the past two decades, Becky has dedicated herself to teaching The Son-Rise Program, working directly with over 700 individual children, and supporting thousands of families worldwide in individual and group settings.  Her unwavering commitment and personalized approach have helped these children reach their true potential. Becky describes her work as her life's mission, and her efforts continue to inspire and bring hope to those she serves. https://autismtreatmentcenter.org/References in The Episode:The Son-Rise Program Start-UpAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 202 of Autism Parenting Secrets. This week, we focus on the incredibly important topic of water safety for kids on the autism spectrum, as they are 160 times more likely to drown than neurotypical kids.We’re joined by Dayna Harvey, a Water Safety Expert who educates and empowers parents with information, strategies, and hands-on tools to keep their children safer in and around water.She is also a swimming lesson teacher who teaches children the skills they need to save their lives.  Her mission to eradicate drowning has intensified as drowning continues to be the #1 cause of accidental death in children under 5. The secret this week isTake WATER SAFETY SeriouslyYou'll Discover:The Shocking Rate of Drowning for Kids on the Autism Spectrum (4:00)Why Swimming Lessons Aren’t Enough (6:56)The WATCHING Initiative (8:57)Why Supervision Isn’t Enough (11:47)The Biggest Distraction For Parents (14:49)Why EVERYBODY In Your Circle Needs To Be Vigilant (17:24)The Limitations of Life Jackets (21:59)Not Knowing Is Not OK (27:22)About Our Guest:Dayna Harvey is a Water Safety Expert (educating and empowering parents with information, strategies, and hands-on tools to keep their children safer in and around water), and she is a swimming lesson teacher (instructing children in the skills they need to save their lives).  Dayna was first certified in 1988 and she has been impacting families ever since.  The mission to eradicate drowning has intensified as drowning continues to be the #1 cause of accidental death in children under 5.  Dayna and the Waiting Whale kids have created The WATCHING Initiative and The Waiting Whale - Water Safety Kit, important tools for parents to have in their homes as they teach their children "Where there is water, I will WAIT!"watersafetywithmissdayna.comwww.facebook.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna/aboutReferences in The Episode:Autism Swim“The Reason I Jump” AudiobookAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 201 of Autism Parenting Secrets. Today we’re talking about the transformative power of food for you and especially your child.And we’re joined by someone who was a very early guide for us in helping us see the path forward.Julie Matthews is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and published researcher specializing in personalized nutrition for complex neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder and ADHD for over 20 years. She received her master’s degree in medical nutrition, with distinction, from Arizona State University. She’s the author of the award-winning book Nourishing Hope for Autism and co-author of two research studies demonstrating the efficacy of nutrition and therapeutic diet intervention for autism. Julie supports clinicians and families from around the world with her nutrition programs and professional training courses.And she’s here today to share why food matters more than you think.The secret this week is…Science Supports DIET CHANGESYou'll Discover:Items To Eliminate Now (6:47)The Problem With MSG (8:25)Gluten-Free Items To Be Wary Of (14:48)Why It’s Never Too Late To Start (20:24)Surprising Facts About Diet Changes (23:01)A Little Known Diet With Surprising Efficacy (25:11)The Power of Bioindividualization (39:03)About Our Guest:Julie Matthews, MS, is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and published researcher specializing in personalized nutrition for complex neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder and ADHD for over 20 years. She received her master’s degree in medical nutrition, with distinction, from Arizona State University. She is the author of the award-winning book Nourishing Hope for Autism and co-author of two research studies demonstrating the efficacy of nutrition and therapeutic diet intervention for autism. Julie supports clinicians and families from around the world with her nutrition programs and professional training courses.nourishinghope.comReferences in The Episode:Julie’s Step-by-Step Nutrition Program for ParentsJulie’s Free “What the Science Says” ReportRatings of the Effectiveness of 13 Therapeutic Diets for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a National SurveyComprehensive Nutritional and Dietary Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder—A Randomized, Controlled 12-Month TrialAdditional Resources:Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.comBe sure to follow Cass & Len on InstagramIf you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.