Autism Resources Kawartha

In this episode, Matt sits down with John from Kawartha Conservation.

John reflects on how awareness of autism has changed over the decades and shares personal stories about parenting, empathy, and supporting loved ones with different needs. We talk about why sensory-friendly spaces matter, especially at busy events, and how we worked with Kawartha Conservation to bring a Sensory Safe Space to this year’s Christmas at Ken Reid.

We al...

In this episode, Matt sits down with Ashley, a parent and advocate whose life has been deeply shaped by autism - from growing up with her aunt Sarah Jane, to parenting her recently diagnosed son.

Ashley opens up about her early experiences living with a family member with autism, how her mother’s compassion taught her patience and advocacy, and how those lessons came full circle as she navigated her own son’s diagnosis. Th...

In this episode, Matt sits down with Heather, a retired teacher and owner of R&J Stables. Heather shares her incredible journey from education to equine-assisted therapy, exploring how her lifelong love of horses has evolved into a deeply meaningful program that supports individuals with autism.

Heather discusses how her background in special education and her personal connection to disability through her late aunt sha...

In this episode, Matt sits down with Jennifer - a devoted aunt to an autistic niece - to explore what it means to love, support, and understand from the outside looking in.

Jenn shares the story of her niece’s autism, ADHD, and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) diagnoses, and how those discoveries reshaped not just her niece’s world, but the whole family’s approach to connection and care. She opens up about learning to l...

In this conversation, Christy discusses the challenges faced in advocating for her child within the school system, the importance of understanding sensory overload and anxiety, and the need for structure and routine. She reflects on her journey of acceptance and resilience, emphasizing the significance of community support and the role of diagnosis in understanding autism. Christy concludes with thoughts on the importance of kindne...

In this conversation, Kali shares her personal journey with autism, focusing on her experiences as a parent of an autistic child. We discuss the early diagnosis of her son, the challenges faced in understanding autism, and the impact it has on family dynamics. The conversation also highlights the importance of community support, advocacy, and the unique gifts that autistic individuals bring to the world, including one of the most i...

This conversation with Alexandra explores the experiences of parenting autistic children, highlighting the challenges, triumphs, and the importance of understanding and advocacy. The discussion delves into the role of sports in providing inclusive environments, planning family outings, and the emotional journey of navigating diagnosis and accommodations. Ultimately, it celebrates the unique strengths of neurodiversity and autism as...

This conversation explores the experiences of an individual diagnosed with autism some time ago, focusing on Robert’s journey through childhood, the challenges of socialization, and the therapeutic role of art in his life. The discussion also highlights the need for better support systems for adults on the spectrum, emphasizing the importance of recognizing their unique strengths and challenges.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: C...

In this episode, Ruth shares her journey as a parent of a son with autism, discussing the challenges and triumphs of raising him. She opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of dealing with meltdowns, the importance of understanding and patience, and the need for more autism-specific resources. Ruth emphasizes the significance of listening to her son's needs and adapting parenting strategies to support his unique developmen...

In this episode, Jamie shares her personal journey with autism, discussing her experience growing up with an autistic sister and raising an autistic daughter. She explores the challenges and triumphs of navigating a world not built for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the importance of understanding and support.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services (www.cardinalhome.ca)
CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Galler...

In this conversation, Ashley, shares her personal journey of discovering her autism and ADHD, reflecting on the challenges faced throughout her life, particularly as a woman. She discusses the impact of these neurodivergent conditions on her social interactions, parenting, and mental health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and compassion for neurodiversity, the struggles of navigating adult life, and the...

This conversation with Natalie explores the personal journey of understanding autism and ADHD, particularly from the perspective of a mother navigating her own diagnosis alongside her daughter's. It delves into reflections on childhood experiences, the challenges of parenting neurodiverse children, and the importance of community awareness and resources for autism. The discussion emphasizes breaking stereotypes and understandi...

🎧 The Autism Resources Kawartha Podcast

Hosted by Matt Geraghty, co-founder of Autism Resources Kawartha (ARK). Each week, we sit down with autistic people – and the people who love them – to share real stories, lived experiences, and resources that support our community here in Kawartha Lakes.

Our mission? To connect people through honest conversations and to normalize the autistic experience.

🙌 A huge thank-you to Cardinal Home Se...