Autism Weekly

This week, we’re joined by Rose Griffin, a speech-language pathologist and board-certified behavior analyst with over 20 years of experience. In her last visit, we explored how speech and ABA therapy work together; be sure to check out that episode, which we’ll link to this one. Today, Rose will share practical speech therapy strategies for autistic children, the importance of joint attention, and how families can support communica...

This week, we’re joined by Jenna Kokoski, a BCBA with over 20 years of experience in the ABA field. Jenna is the COO of Jade Health and a leader in the ABA community, known for her advocacy, expertise, and dedication to creating ethical and sustainable business models. She’s here to talk about the importance of accreditation in ensuring quality care in ABA, what families should look for in a provider, and how accreditation benefits...

This week, we’re joined by Ron Souers; an ADHD advocate, podcast host, and author who’s dedicated his life to empowering adults with ADHD to embrace their differences and unlock their true potential. Ron is the voice behind the podcast “Don’t Mind Me, I’m Different!”, where he shares raw and relatable stories about living with ADHD and depression, and he’s also the author of The Self Discovery Journal for Adults with ADHD. 

In this...

This week, we are joined by Dr. Amy Keefer, a board-certified psychologist at Kennedy Krieger’s Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation and assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Keefer is a leading expert in autism and anxiety research, and she’s here to discuss an exciting clinical trial called DINOSAUR, which focuses on a novel anxiety treatment for 4-6-year-old autistic children. Down...

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Kang, an Assistant Professor at Montclair State University whose groundbreaking research bridges science and practice to improve autism interventions. We’re also thrilled to welcome Dr. Sadaf Khawar, a postdoctoral researcher whose award-winning work focuses on the barriers South Asian and MENA families face in accessing autism services. 

Together, we’ll discuss how cultural and structural factor...

This week, we are joined by Colleen Katzenmoyer, the newly appointed vice president of education services at Devereux, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare. Dr. Katzenmoyer brings nearly 20 years of experience in education and behavioral health, and she’s here to share how her new role will enhance services for families, schools, and communities nationwide. Download episode to learn more!

Resourc...

This week, we are joined by Vijay Ravindran, founder of Floreo and an inspiring innovator in the world of autism technology. Vijay’s journey as an autism father, combined with his impressive career at companies like Amazon and The Washington Post, led him to create groundbreaking virtual reality tools that are transforming how individuals with autism learn and grow. Today, we’ll discuss how AI and VR are shaping the future of autis...

This week, we are joined by David Geslak, also known as Coach Dave, a pioneer in using exercise to support individuals with autism. He’s the founder of a fitness program taught in nine universities and has partnered with the American College of Sports Medicine to create the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate. David has dedicated his career to empowering the autism community through movement.  

Today, we’ll discuss how exercise ...

This week, we are joined by Dr. Dena L. Gassner, Senior Research Scientist at AJ Drexel, autism advocate, and member of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC). Dena is rewriting the narrative around autistic identity, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for gender diversity and inclusivity in autism research and policy. 

Her personal journey as a proud autistic mother adds a deeply relatable perspective to her wor...

This week, we welcome Dr. Diana Robins, professor and director at the AJ Drexel Autism Institute. Renowned for her work on early autism detection and the development of the M-CHAT, Dr. Robins has helped countless families access earlier diagnoses and crucial interventions. Join us as we explore early detection, strategies to support development, and exciting advancements in autism research. Watch now to learn more!

This week we’re discussing "The Power of Listening and Mentorship Programs" through the Making Mentors program. This initiative pairs autistic college students with high school students to foster connection, growth, and empowerment. Joining us are Kristen Gillespie-Lynch, Taylor (T) Abbatemarco, Louis Rotondo, and Rita Strickland to share how mentorship and peer support are transforming the autistic community. Download episode to l...

This week, we are joined by Rachelle Vartanian, founder of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. Inspired by her own parenting journey, Rachelle has dedicated her work to empowering individuals with autism. Today, we’ll discuss autism advocacy, job training, clinical services, social programs, housing solutions, and much more. Download the latest episode now to learn more!

Resources 

This week, we are joined by Dr. Scott Price, a renowned professor of music and pioneer in inclusive piano education. Dr. Price has dedicated his career to teaching students with autism and empowering families through the power of music. Today, we will discuss how music can unlock potential, foster growth, and bring joy to children with special needs. Download latest episode to learn more!

Resources 

This week, we are joined by Amy Kelly, the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and her son, Danny Kelly. Amy brings her professional expertise and heartfelt insights from raising three children, including her daughter Annie, who has profound autism. Danny joins us to share his perspective as a sibling, his role in the Devereux Sibling Engagement Committee, and the lessons he’s learned supp...

This week, we are joined by Dr. Giacomo Vivanti, a leading expert in early autism detection and intervention. With a personal connection to autism through his two brothers and a career dedicated to understanding how children with autism learn, Dr. Vivanti offers invaluable insights. Today we will be discussing practical advice for recognizing early signs, understanding your child’s unique learning style, and creating supportive env...

This week, we are joined by Clain Udy, a passionate advocate, father, and author who is on a mission to rebrand autism and reshape how society perceives it. As the father of an adult son with high-functioning autism, Clain’s journey has taken him from wanting to “fix” his son to wholeheartedly embracing his son’s unique strengths. With over 30 years of professional experience in human performance improvement and learning developmen...

This week, we welcome Dr. Joseph Buxbaum, a leading neuroscientist, autism expert, and Director of the Seaver Autism Center. With his vast expertise in genetics, neuroscience, and clinical applications, Dr. Buxbaum will shed light on the latest advances in autism research and share practical advice to help families make informed decisions about their child’s care. Download latest episode to learn more now!

Resources

Instagram: @Sea...

This week, we welcome Cheryl Poe to the podcast to discuss the critical topic of advocating for Black autistic children in education systems.  Cheryl is an accomplished advocate, trainer, speaker, and parent with a wealth of experience. She’s the founder of Advocating 4 Kids, Inc., where she empowers families and educators with the tools, they need to support Black and Brown children with disabilities. Cheryl brings a deeply person...

This week, we are joined by Kadin McElwain, an autistic college student and advocate from Ohio who has dedicated his life to proving doubters wrong and helping others on the autism spectrum thrive. Despite being told he wouldn’t be able to live a ‘normal’ life, he has continuously broken barriers, from excelling in academics and athletics to leading impactful autism awareness initiatives in his community. Today, we will be discussi...