Uniquely Human: The Podcast

Dr. Lenz discusses the link between chronic pain and neurodivergence, stressing the need for compassionate medical care. The podcast explores lifestyle changes for managing conditions like fibromyalgia and autism. It also highlights the importance of supportive patient environments and engaging activities for self-regulation.

Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral, both neurodivergent professionals and parents of neurodivergent children bring a unique perspective to the challenges and gifts of raising children of color. Based on their new book, Parenting at the Intersections, we discuss the barriers that families of color face over and above those encountered by all families who have children with neurodevelopmental differences, as well as all that can be learned in each family’s journey. Find out more about the episode, and useful resources, hereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Dance in Ohio is a heart-filled new musical that explores what it means to belong, the courage it takes to put yourself out in the world, and the universal need to connect. The musical follows the challenges and triumphs faced by a group of seven autistic young adults at a counseling center in Columbus, Ohio. The center arranges a spring formal dance, and encourages them as they encounter love, fear, stress, excitement, and hope along the path to human connection. We speak with Linda J. Walder, Founder and Executive Director of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation that honored the cast and crew with the DJF Foundation Adult Autism award, and with Rebekah Greer Melocik, book author and lyricist, and Nicole D’Angelo, Assistant Music Director and member of the show’s access team.   Learn more and find useful resources on our website!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Barry and Dave discuss the concept of control in autistic individuals, exploring the 'deep why' behind their need for routines and predictability. They share personal experiences and insights on the importance of understanding and supporting those who seek stability in a chaotic world.

Autistic and other neurodivergent people of all ages are vulnerable to many factors, both internal and external, that may lead to anxiety and phobias. Dr. Karen Levine’s publications and clinical innovations have directly addressed these challenges in respectful and insightful ways. We discuss ways to understand such challenges and provide support based on a deeper understanding of the experiences shared by autistic individuals and neurodivergent individuals. Karen discusses her approach focusing on relationships, affective support, and the use of humor in co-regulation . Explore more on the episode's webpage. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

One of the most challenging behavioral patterns observed in neurodivergent individuals with developmental challenges (and, in fact, all children!), is when they verbally or nonverbally communicate “NO”. In fact, the term “Non-compliance” has been the most frequently used phrase when characterizing refusal or protest behavior, and such behavior most often raises the “ire” of an adult partner. In approaches that focusing only on the surface behavior, and do not explore the “deep why”, reducing “non-compliant” behavior is often targeted in behavior plans for children.  However, when a child communicates “NO”, the picture may be much more complex than it first appears. In this first episode or our de-pathologizing series, Barry and Dave explore these complexities. Find out more in the episode's websiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Mary Doherty, an autistic consultant anesthetist and founder of Autistic Doctors International, passionately discusses her late diagnosis and the imperative for neurodiversity-affirming healthcare. She stresses the importance of empathy and peer support in medicine, advocating for open access in autism research and addressing sensory needs often overlooked in diagnoses. Mary highlights the need for tailored approaches in healthcare settings to improve outcomes for autistic individuals, encouraging a shift from traditional views to a more inclusive model.

Amanda Diekman challenges mainstream parenting advice by advocating for 'Low Demand Parenting' for neurodivergent children. The podcast delves into radical acceptance, trust-based parenting, and redefining power dynamics in parenting and society. It also explores alternative parenting styles, the 'Low-demand Parenting' book, and the importance of setting realistic expectations for children.

It is widely recognized, but unfortunately, that most attention is paid to understanding and supporting autistic individuals in their childhood years, but much less so in middle-aged and older individuals. The result is a critical need for understanding of the experience of autism in older and late-diagnosed individuals, both from a research and support need perspective. These issues are discussed with Christine Jenkins, an autistic advocate and professional with expertise and personal experience in this much needed area of focus. Dive deeper into this episode, with useful resources, on our websiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Peter Vermeulen, a renowned Belgian Psychologist, discusses the predictive mind concept in autism, navigating social unpredictability, and the HAPPY program for emotional regulation. The importance of empathy, neuroharmony, and reframing autistic traits as strengths are highlighted in this insightful and engaging podcast.