Dads in Autismland
Dads in Autismland is a heartfelt and candid podcast dedicated to fathers raising children on the autism spectrum. Hosted by Mark de Grasse, a proud dad navigating life in the world of autism, this podcast offers a safe space for dads to share their triumphs, challenges, and personal growth while fostering a supportive community. Each episode dives into the unique experiences of parenting in "Autismland," featuring real stories from dads, expert interviews, and actionable tips for navigating everything from meltdowns to milestones. Whether you're seeking advice, camaraderie, or just a good laugh, Dads in Autismland provides honest conversations about fatherhood, family, and finding joy in the journey. Join us weekly as we explore the ups, downs, and everything in between of raising extraordinary children while becoming stronger, more compassionate dads along the way.
Episodes
Drawing from his personal journey as a father to a profoundly autistic son and insights from the first 26 episodes, Mark offers an encouraging and practical starting point for dads new to the autism journey.
With empathy and humor, he explores the emotional challenges, lifestyle changes, and community support that autism dads often encounter. This episode sets the tone for a powerful series designed to empow...
In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with David Lee—professor, podcaster, and father to 9-year-old Eddie, who is on the autism spectrum.
David shares his deeply personal journey, from early moments of uncertainty and shame to finding joy in the smallest victories. Together, they reflect on the unique trials and triumphs of raising an autistic child, discuss the value...
In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness, to explore the long-term importance of physical health for autistic individuals.
Eric shares his journey from personal trainer to autism fitness pioneer, offering insights into motivation, movement planning, and individualized training for children and adults on the spectrum.
With practical advice, per...
In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes fellow autism dad Mark Kendall for a heartfelt conversation about navigating public life with children on the autism spectrum.
Drawing from personal experiences with his 22-year-old nonverbal daughter, Mark Kendall opens up about the emotional and logistical challenges dads face—from handling staring strangers to managing safety in unpredictable situa...
In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Allan Young, founder of Autism Acres, a purpose-built sanctuary for children with autism and other special needs.
Allan shares his powerful journey from military service to creating a five-acre haven in Rochester, Washington for families like his own—including his three sons on the spectrum and a foster daughter with Down syndrome.
Lis...
In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes guest Matt Anderton, father of three-year-old Beckett, who was diagnosed with autism at just 13 months old.
Matt shares the emotional and practical aspects of their early diagnosis journey, the critical role nutrition and therapy have played, and his life-altering decision to leave a demanding job to become a full-time caregiver.
From the ch...
In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Graeme Wright—a father, entrepreneur, and recovery coach—who shares an inspiring, faith-driven journey through adoption, autism, addiction, and personal transformation.
Graeme opens up about adopting two children from China, one of whom was later diagnosed with autism, and how this experience unearthed hidden wounds from his past. From relaps...
In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with entrepreneur and father of six Jason Vance, whose 21-year-old son is on the autism spectrum.
Jason shares the deeply personal and practical journey of raising a child initially diagnosed as moderately to severely autistic—who now lives independently with his grandparents and contributes daily to their small farm.
They discuss...
In the season finale of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse reflects on the journey so far—what inspired the podcast, the powerful stories shared, and what lies ahead in Season Two.
With honesty and heart, Mark opens up about his personal experiences raising a son with severe autism, the emotional toll many fathers face, and the need for authentic male support.
He calls on fellow autism dads to...
On this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with autism dad and founder of The Spectrum Hope Fund, Tim Huck.
The two dive deep into the emotional and financial realities of raising a child on the spectrum—from the early days of diagnosis, ABA therapy, and mounting expenses, to losing friendships and navigating the complexities of fatherhood.
Tim shares how his own challenges inspired...
In this heartwarming episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Roger Kuhrt, a devoted father who shares his inspiring and humorous journey of adopting his son Gordy from South Korea during the chaos of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Roger opens up about the parallel challenges of adoption and autism—initially mistaking Gordy’s behaviors as effects of adoption, only to later receive a life-changing ...
In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Neal Tricarico, a devoted father and founder of Endurant Movement. Neal shares his deeply personal journey of raising his autistic son, Anthony, whose silent struggles with mental health ultimately led to tragedy.
Through heartbreak, Neal and his family have transformed their grief into a mission—raising awareness about the cri...
In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Mark Olson, founder of LTO Ventures, to tackle one of the biggest concerns for autism dads: What happens when we’re gone?
Mark shares his journey as a father to two daughters with developmental disabilities, his struggles navigating long-term care options, and how he turned a personal challenge into a mission—building sustainable, inclusive comm...
In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Jacob "Cheech" Cook, a dedicated father raising two sons—one autistic and one neurotypical.
Together, they dive into the unpredictable transitions that come with autism, from evolving communication challenges to sensory preferences and food aversions. Jacob shares his personal journey of recognizing the signs, navigating diagnosis, and...
Fatherhood is a journey—but raising a child on the autism spectrum adds layers of complexity, resilience, and growth that few understand. In this episode of Dads in Autismland, Mark de Grasse sits down with Patrick Hurley, a dedicated father balancing life with both a neurotypical and autistic son.
Patrick shares his raw and unfiltered experience—from the early signs of autism and the diagnosis process to navigating th...
In this heartfelt episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Scott Bisbee, a father of four, navigating the unique challenges of raising two children on the autism spectrum.
Scott opens up about his son Alex’s pathological demand avoidance (PDA), food struggles, and the unexpected journey of discovering his diagnosis during the pandemic. He also shares insights into supporting his youn...
On this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse dives deep into the critical role of self-development for fathers raising children on the autism spectrum.
As the lifelong caregiver of his 12-year-old son Damien—who is nonverbal and requires full-time care—Mark shares his journey of acceptance, physical transformation, and mental resilience.
He explores how fitness, faith, and self-care ar...
Ever felt like you were handed a puzzle with no picture on the box?
In this unfiltered episode of Dads in Autismland, Corey Michael opens up about the rollercoaster of raising a neurodiverse family. With a five-year-old daughter on the spectrum, a wife with ADHD, and his own journey with Tourette’s, Corey knows firsthand what it’s like to piece together a life that doesn’t fit the traditional mold.
F...
In this solo episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse takes on a frustrating but all-too-common topic—how to handle trolls, critics, and public judgment as an autism dad.
Whether online or in person, autism parents frequently face uninformed, judgmental, or outright cruel comments about their parenting choices.
He breaks down the three types of trolls, explores why people react negatively to autism behaviors...
Whether you're navigating the autism journey yourself or simply seeking insight into fatherhood's deeper moments, House's blend of vulnerability and quiet strength offers wisdom that resonates. His candid reflections and hard-earned perspective make this episode one worth your time.
Between exploring stem cell therapy and running a tight ship at home, House opens up about the daily plays and au...
Popular Podcasts
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Listen to 'The Bobby Bones Show' by downloading the daily full replay.