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 situations.
Together, they share practical tips, honest stories, and a strong message of encouragement: you can go out, you can be confident, and you are your child’s best advocate. Whether you’re wrestling with your first family outing or planning a vacation with accommodations, this episode offers relatable support and empowering advice for autism dads everywhere.
TOPICS
- The role of autism dads as public advocates and "ambassadors"
- Tips for preparing outings with autistic children, including safety bags and routines
- How public expectations change as autistic kids become adults
- Strategies for handling unwanted attention and educating others
- Navigating travel, vacations, and community inclusion with autistic children
- Safety protocols, water risks, and long-term planning
- Emotional insights on adapting to autism parenting over time
ADVERTISING LINKS
Dads in Autismland Membership - The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/
QUOTES
- “You didn’t sign up to be an ambassador for autism—but you are one.”
- “Dads need to feel confident bringing their kids into public spaces.”
- “Everybody has their time limits—neurotypical or not.”
- “Sometimes pulling the ripcord is the best decision for everyone.”
- “If you're not prepared, you’re not protecting—so have a plan.”
ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.
Host
Mark de Grasse
Popular Podcasts
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
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!
Dateline NBC
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
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
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!