Autism, Anxiety & Adulthood: My Son’s Journey to Independence (S7E39)

Welcome to another inspiring episode of The Autism Dad Podcast! In this episode, host Rob Gorski sits down with Sara Hast, an autism mom and advocate, to discuss her family’s unique journey. Sara shares her heartfelt experiences of raising two autistic children, navigating a late autism diagnosis during the pandemic, and the challenges of postpartum depression while parenting. Key highlights include: The role of the community in overcoming isolation and rebuilding confidence. Sara’s journey into advocacy and creating her inclusive clothing brand, Hashtags, promoting acceptance for all. The emotional impact of systemic delays in autism evaluations and how Sara turned frustration into empowerment. A raw and honest look at parenting challenges, including teaching self-advocacy, handling bullying, and fostering independence. Why bridging differences in the disability community leads to collective strength and understanding. Rob and Sara explore the power of sharing stories, the importance of meeting kids where they are, and finding joy in everyday triumphs. Whether you're an autism parent or want to learn from different perspectives, this episode is packed with insights, validation, and hope. Listen now and join the conversation about building a more inclusive, compassionate world. Links and Resources: - Connect with Sara on Instagram: @Sara_Hast_ - Check out Sara's clothing line, Hashtags: @HastHouse - Follow Rob Gorski for more inspiring content: theautismdad.com This Week's Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. Circle Care Services Circle Care Services offers personalized ABA therapy for children with autism in New Jersey and Georgia, providing support at home, in daycares, or clinics. Their skilled team partners with parents to build confidence and unlock each child’s potential. Visit circlecareservices.com or call (877) 460-1104. Mightier Mightier 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, Rob Gorski sits down with Jacqueline Baker, a BCBA and Market Leader at Action Behavior Centers, to discuss the transition to adulthood for autistic children. Together, they explore personal and professional insights and offer valuable advice to parents navigating this complex journey. Rob reflects on his experiences as a father of three autistic sons, two of whom are now adults, and shares lessons learned, mistakes made, and practical strategies for preparing kids for independence. Jacqueline provides a clinical perspective, emphasizing the importance of fostering autonomy, life skills, and resilience from an early age. Key topics include: ·        - The importance of preparing for adulthood early. ·        - Balancing independence with the necessary support. ·        - Addressing misconceptions about autism and abilities. ·        - School placement options and navigating the IEP process. ·        - Building a collaborative approach between families and educators. ·        - The role of self-care for parents and caregivers. Whether you’re a parent at the beginning of this journey or further along, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories to inspire and guide you. Resources Mentioned: - Action Behavior Centers: Learn more about their Academy program and support for autistic children. - The Autism Dad Podcast: Explore more episodes and resources for autism parenting. Connect with Us: Host: Rob Gorski - The Autism Dad Guest: Jacqueline Baker, BCBA (Action Behavior Centers) Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode or found it helpful, please share it with your friends, leave a review, or tag us on social media! Your support helps us create more valuable content for families like yours. This Week's Sponsors: Safe Place Bedding Sleep is a major challenge for many families in our community, and Safe Place Bedding can help. Their sensory-friendly, enclosed beds are perfect for kids with unique needs, and they make it easy to get permanent beds covered by insurance. Plus, their new travel bed ensures better sleep anywhere. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to save 10% and give your child the gift of better sleep—because every family deserves a good night’s rest. Mightier Mightier 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 compelling episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski speaks with Amanda Lukof, a sibling to a brother with autism and the co-founder of Eleplan. Amanda provides a unique perspective on growing up alongside a neurodivergent sibling, highlighting the emotional dynamics, challenges, and triumphs that shaped her life. This heartfelt conversation explores the often-overlooked experiences of neurotypical siblings in autism families. Amanda candidly shares her journey, from the early days of her brother Liam’s diagnosis to how those experiences inspired her to create Eleplan. This groundbreaking platform simplifies caregiving through AI-driven solutions. Together, Rob and Amanda dive deep into family dynamics, sibling responsibilities, and the vital role of technology in caregiving. Key takeaways from this episode include: - Insight into the sibling experience of autism families. - The emotional challenges faced by caregivers and siblings alike. - How Eleplan leverages AI to streamline caregiving and enhance family support. Whether you're a parent, sibling, or caregiver, this episode offers validation, practical tools, and inspiration for your own journey. About the Host: Rob Gorski, *The Autism Dad*, is a trusted advocate for families raising autistic children. As a father to three autistic sons, Rob has dedicated his life to providing support, education, and validation to parents navigating similar paths. Through his award-winning blog, podcast, and social media platforms, Rob continues to be a guiding voice in the autism community. About the Guest: Amanda Lukof is the CEO and co-founder of Eleplan, a digital care planning platform designed to simplify caregiving for families of neurodiverse individuals. As the older sister to Liam, a 27-year-old with autism, Amanda draws from her personal experiences to advocate for better caregiving tools and resources. Her work empowers families to navigate caregiving with compassion, efficiency, and a touch of technology. Key Resources and Links: - Learn more about Eleplan: eleplan.com - Connect with Amanda Lukof on LinkedIn: Amanda Lukof - Explore Rob’s resources for parents: The Autism Dad - Special Offer: Enjoy 3 months of Eleplan for free with the code provided in this episode! Listener Action Steps: - Subscribe to *The Autism Dad Podcast* on your favorite podcast platform. - Leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. - Share this episode with friends or family who may benefit. - Visit eleplan.com to explore how Eleplan can support your caregiving journey. This Week's Sponsors: Circle Care Services Circle Care Services offers personalized ABA therapy for children with autism in New Jersey and Georgia, providing support at home, in daycares, or clinics. Their skilled team partners with parents to build confidence and unlock each child’s potential. Visit circlecareservices.com or call (877) 460-1104. 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% Autism 360 Learn More: Mightier Mightier 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%.

Welcome to The Autism Dad Podcast! In this episode, I sit down with Jonathon Smith, a dedicated special needs dad, to discuss his parenting journey with a son diagnosed with Angelman Syndrome. Jonathon shares his family's story, their struggles, and the challenges they faced navigating life with a complex genetic disorder. Most inspiringly, he explains how these challenges led to the creation of Safe Place Bedding, a company dedicated to providing safe, comfortable sleeping solutions for special needs individuals. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - What is Angelman Syndrome?  Jonathon gives an overview of this rare genetic disorder, including symptoms like motor challenges, communication difficulties, and the prevalence of seizures. - Parenting a Child with Special Needs:  Insights into Jonathon’s journey, from the long process of diagnosis to the emotional challenges of acceptance and caregiving for life. - Creating Safe Place Bedding:  How a family trip and a sleepless night led to the invention of Safe Place Bedding, a line of secure, portable, and at-home sleeping solutions for individuals with special needs. - Making Travel and Home Life Easier:  Discover the features of the travel bed and home bed solutions that provide safety and comfort, helping families enjoy peace of mind wherever they are. - Insurance Coverage and Accessibility:  Jonathon breaks down how families can work with Medicaid and private insurance to obtain these innovative beds, with support provided every step of the way. Why This Episode Matters: This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of resilience and creativity in the special needs community. Jonathon’s journey emphasizes the importance of problem-solving and the impact of creating resources that help families facing similar challenges. Links & Resources: - Safe Place Bedding: Learn more about their travel and home bed solutions and how to apply for insurance coverage. Visit SafePlaceBedding.com - Contact Rob Gorski: Connect with me at theautismdad.com for more information about the podcast and resources for parents. Help Spread the Word! If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps other families find this valuable resource. Don’t forget to share this episode with anyone who might benefit from Jonathon’s story and Safe Place Bedding. Thank you for your continued support, and I’ll see you in the next episode! This Week's Sponsors: Circle Care Services Circle Care Services offers personalized ABA therapy for children with autism in New Jersey and Georgia, providing support at home, in daycares, or clinics. Their skilled team partners with parents to build confidence and unlock each child’s potential. Visit circlecareservices.com or call (877) 460-1104. Grokkoli Hey 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 episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, host Rob Gorski speaks with Sarah Pearson, a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Circle Care Services, to shed light on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in 2024. For many parents of autistic children, ABA therapy is a crucial consideration, yet it can be shrouded in controversy and misinformation. Sarah demystifies ABA, explaining how it has evolved and how today’s approach is centered on individualized, ethical support tailored to each child’s needs. Topics Covered: - Sarah’s Background: Sarah shares her journey from special education teaching to becoming a BCBA, driven by a passion to help kids on the autism spectrum reach their full potential. - Addressing ABA Controversies: Sarah discusses common misconceptions, including the outdated view that ABA is solely compliance-based. Instead, ABA in 2024 focuses on empowering children to gain independence through scientifically-backed, personalized methods. - Inside ABA Therapy: Sarah explains what ABA sessions look like today, from morning routines to skill-building exercises designed to increase independence and reduce parental stress. Parent involvement is highlighted as a key factor in maximizing ABA’s effectiveness. - Behavior Management: Aggressive behaviors are addressed thoughtfully, with Sarah explaining how ABA now emphasizes understanding the root cause rather than simply suppressing symptoms. - ABA Therapy as a Transitional Tool: Sarah clarifies that ABA is not necessarily a lifelong intervention. The goal is to provide children with the skills to navigate life independently, ultimately phasing out services when appropriate. - Choosing the Right BCBA: Rob and Sarah stress the importance of finding a BCBA who aligns with a family’s values and is receptive to feedback. They emphasize open communication, advocacy, and finding the right fit for each unique situation. Why This Episode Matters: For parents exploring therapy options, this episode offers a balanced perspective on modern ABA, encouraging informed decision-making. Sarah provides guidance on how to spot red flags, what to expect in sessions, and the importance of a collaborative, supportive therapeutic environment. Connect with Circle Care Services: Circle Care Services operates in New Jersey and Georgia, offering a range of services, including ABA therapy, parent support groups, and social skills programs. Circle Care Services About Sarah Pearson: Sara Pearson is a dedicated Special Development Coordinator and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) at Circle Care Services, where she has been making a positive impact for the past three years. With a Master of Arts in Special Education, specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis from Seton Hall University, Sara is skilled in working with school-aged children, primarily in private and public educational settings. Follow Rob Gorski:  Website: https://www.theautismdad.com Instagram: @TheAutismDad Today's Sponsors: Dani Plan Introducing 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 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% Autism 360 Learn More: Mightier Mightier 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 heartfelt episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski reconnects with his 18-year-old autistic son, Elliott, who co-hosts to share life updates and a peek into his creative journey. Rob and Elliott discuss the challenges of transitioning into adulthood, managing anxiety, and handling societal expectations like driving. Elliott opens up about the pressures he faces as he finds his path, and together they explore his unique strengths and accomplishments. Tune in to hear Rob and Elliott’s inspiring conversation and subscribe for more insightful episodes on parenting, autism, and family! Key Highlights: - Elliott’s Creative Venture: Learn about Autistic Eyes, Elliott’s digital photography business, where he shares his distinctive view of the world through his art. - Transition to Adulthood: Elliott candidly discusses the pressures of adult responsibilities, including his choice not to drive due to anxiety. - Managing Anxiety and ADHD: Rob and Elliott talk about navigating anxiety, understanding ADHD, and using coping mechanisms to improve mental health. - Movie Review of Wild Robot: Hear Elliott’s thoughts on Wild Robot, now his favorite movie, and why its wholesome storytelling resonated with him. - Support Elliott’s Work: Find out where you can follow Elliott on social media and support his photography store. Links Mentioned: - Autistic Eyes Photo Store - Follow Elliott on Instagram and Facebook - Connect with Rob: theautismdad.com Takeaway: This episode captures the journey of a father and son navigating life’s transitions, celebrating individual growth, and fostering creativity. Perfect for parents, young adults, and anyone who values open discussions on autism, mental health, and family life. Today's Sponsors: Dani Plan Introducing 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.

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.io Follow Rob Gorski:  Website: https://www.theautismdad.com Instagram: @TheAutismDad This Weeks Sponsors Dani Plan Introducing 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 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% Autism 360 Learn More: Mightier Mightier 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%.

In this episode, Rob Gorski dives deep into the neurological world of ADHD and autism with expert guest Dr. Robert Melillo. Dr. Melillo is a renowned clinician, researcher, and author with over 30 years of experience in developmental functional neurology. Best known for his book Disconnected Kids, he specializes in helping children with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological disorders. Key Topics Discussed: - The real causes behind ADHD and autism - Understanding the difference between different types of ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive, and combined) - How functional disconnection in the brain impacts neurological development - The role of primitive reflexes in autism and ADHD - Cutting-edge treatments for ADHD and autism beyond medication, including neuroplasticity, brain balancing, and functional neurology - Debunking common misconceptions about ADHD and laziness - Practical ways parents can help their kids with ADHD and autism Key Quotes: - "ADHD and autism are not just biochemical issues. They're functional problems in the brain that can be corrected." – Dr. Robert Melillo - "It's not about changing who you are. It's about becoming the best version of yourself by addressing the neurological imbalances." – Dr. Robert Melillo Resources Mentioned: Dr. Robert Melillo's book: Disconnected Kids Dr. Robert Melillo's Website: https://www.drrobertmelillo.com Follow Dr. Melillo on Instagram: @drrobertmelillo This Weeks Sponsors: Dani Plan Introducing 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. Grokkoli Hey 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 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.com About 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 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% Autism 360 Grokkoli Hey 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 Sponsors Learn More: Grokkoli Hey 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: Mightier Mightier 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%.