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 communities for individuals with autism and other disabilities.
From financial planning to policy advocacy, Mark offers crucial insights into securing a future for our children beyond our lifetimes. Whether you're a parent in the trenches or looking for actionable advice, this episode is packed with wisdom, resources, and inspiration.
TOPICS COVERED
- The critical question: What happens to our children when we’re gone?
- Mark Olson’s journey as an autism dad and founder of LTO Ventures
- The financial realities of long-term care and why planning must start early
- The challenges of finding housing and support for autistic adults
- How parents can take action and build autism-friendly communities
- Advocacy efforts for disability rights and policy changes
GUEST LINKS
- Mark Olson – LTO Ventures: ltoventures.org
QUOTES
"There are 50,000 kids turning into autistic adults every year. Where are they going to go?" - Mark Olson
"Every autism parent asks the same question: What happens after I’m gone? I decided to stop asking and start solving." - Mark Olson
"You need to start planning for your child’s future when they’re five—not when they’re 50. The financial reality is, you can’t afford to wait." - Mark Olson
"I woke up at 3 AM in a cold sweat and thought—what kind of place would my daughter actually want to live? That’s how LTO Ventures started." - Mark Olson
"Too many parents feel alone in this. The truth is, there’s a whole community ready to help—you just have to reach out." - Mark Olson
DISCLAIMER
Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.
Host
Mark de Grasse
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