The Autism Dad

• Gavin’s Journey to Independence (S8E10)

  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 home Health and hygiene concerns due to his compromised immune system The emotional challenges of touring potential homes Gavin’s budgeting process and side-hustle plans His passion for gaming and creating a relaxed, inclusive online space This 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 Bedding If 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 & Talia Parker & 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.

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• Special Needs Financial Planning (Part 1) – Building the Foundation (S8E09)

  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 journey Common challenges families face right after diagnosis How and when to reach out to your county Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD) Understanding Medicaid, Social Security, and how income affects eligibility What a waiver is and why you want to get on the list ASAP Navigating stigma, burnout, and the lack of direction many parents feel The emotional toll of those early years—and why it’s okay if you’re not thinking long-term yet When to start thinking about special needs trusts, STABLE accounts, and other tools Katy 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 Bryan Chartered Special Needs Consultant, Skylight Financial Group 📧 Email: [email protected] 🌐 Licensed to work nationwide This Week’s Sponsors Safe Place Bedding Give your child the gift of better sleep with Safe Place Bedding’s travel-friendly, sensory-friendly sleep solutions. Visit: https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad 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% https://smartlink2.metricool.com/public/smartlink/autism-360-robtheautismdad Mightier Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more & save 10% with code 'theautismdad22': https://www.mightier.com If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Your support helps bring more resources to families like yours. Thanks for being here, and I’ll talk to you 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) 621-5680 CA Insurance License number: 4175736 The 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

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  31:21
• Before He Could Speak (S8E08)

  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 kids This 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

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  21:03
• The Importance of Validation in the Autism Community (S8E07)

  Episode Overview In 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 Matters Many 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 Links Connect with me: TheAutismDad.com Join my private parenting support group: theautismdad.com/support Listen Now: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podcast Website Want 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 | Facebook Thanks for tuning in. See you next week. This Week’s Sponsor: Safe Place Bedding If 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.

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  8:27
• Navigating Divorce with Neurodivergent Kids (Part 2) S8E06

  Episode Summary Divorce is never easy, and when neurodivergent children are involved, the challenges can be even more complex. In Part 1, we explored the unique difficulties of co-parenting neurodivergent kids, the importance of routine and consistency, and strategies for reducing trauma and increasing stability. Now, in Part 2, we’re tackling listener-submitted questions about co-parenting, communication struggles, and how to help kids through the transition. Dr. Mikki Lee is back to provide expert guidance, and I share personal lessons learned from my own experience. Whether it’s handling different parenting styles, managing transitions between households, or navigating co-parenting disagreements, this episode is all about practical solutions that prioritize a child'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 and anxiety - 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 children post-divorce - The importance of self-care for parents and setting healthy boundaries - Lessons learned: What I wish I had done differently Guest Bio Dr. 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. 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/support Listen & 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.com This Week’s Sponsors Safe Place Bedding Give your child the gift of better sleep with Safe Place Bedding’s travel-friendly, sensory-friendly sleep solutions. Visit: https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad The Unbreakable Boy This inspiring film about resilience and love hits theaters on February 21st! Get your tickets now: https://tickets.theunbreakableboy.movie Mightier Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more & save 10% with code 'theautismdad22': https://www.mightier.com If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Your support helps bring more resources to families like yours. Thanks for being here, and I’ll talk to you next week!

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