The holidays can be such a fun and spiritual time of year for a lot of us, but there are also challenges, especially if you or a family member is autistic. We hear from two guests with interesting perspectives on how to enjoy family time at the holidays in a neurodiverse family. Kristy Forbes joins us from Australia, and Dave’s wife Kristen spills the tea on their own family’s strategies for enjoying the holidays together. And, hear a special performance from our autistic friend, Conner.

Autism at the Holidays; Kristy Forbes; Kristen Finch

Uniquely Human: the Podcast expands the conversation on autism and neurodiversity by amplifying the voices of autistic individuals and thought leaders in providing insightful, cutting-edge and practical information about the autistic experience. Hosted by Barry Prizant and Dave Finch.

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Ezra is a major motion picture that tells the story of a family, across generations, that has a deep love for a young autistic boy. The film authentically conveys the challenges that a family faces when confronted with societal expectations and insensitive professionals who has little understanding or respect for a child that sees the world through a different lens. It also beautifully portrays those rarefied times when other people, even strangers, see the beauty, the honesty, and the inspirational qualities of a young child who has a strong sense of self, and approaches life with eyes wide open. Barry and Dave explore themes of Ezra with Tony Goldwyn, its director, Tony Spiridakis, writer of the screenplay, and Elaine Hall who is a casting consultant for the film.  Find out more on our website

About "Ezra": with Director Tony Goldwyn, Writer Tony Spiridakis and Casting Consultant, Elaine Hall

The history of autism is replete with diametrically opposed representations of the autistic experience as either a blessing, or a tragedy. These varying beliefs may be held by professionals, family members, and even autistic individuals themselves. Of course, such extreme views do not accurately portray the complexities involved, which often fall somewhere between these two extreme representations. Barry and Dave discuss such complexities with a goal of honoring the experience of each individual, as well as family members.  Check out more on the episode's website

De-pathologizing Series EP 4 – Autism: A Blessing?? A Tragedy?? with Barry and Dave

 Shannon Rosa and Carol Ann Greenburg are parent-professionals and partners in developing and sharing their on-line resource, A Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism, one of the very first resources to provide valuable information to the autistic and neurodivergent communities. In their own words, the mission of TPGA is to be a a one-stop source for carefully curated, evidence-based, neurodiversity-steeped information from autistic people, parents, and autism professionals. They emphasize that autism acceptance is not merely noble but necessary—and are separate matters from the autistic and other autism communities’ never-ending fights for medical, legal, social, and educational accommodation. The goal of TPGA is “to help  fast-forward past society’s rampant autism fabrications and negativity, by providing clear, thoughtfully presented, balanced, and referenced information”.  Barry and Dave discuss TPGA in the context of Shannon and Carol’s experiences as parents, and as advocates for the autistic community. Learn more about this episode and find useful resources on our website!

Thinking Person's Guide to Autism, with Shannon Rosa and Carol Ann Greenburg

Episode 103 • Understanding Autism: A Discussion with Autistic Film Producer and Director, Scott Steindorff  Scott Steindorff, an accomplished autistic film producer and director travelled the world to make his new film, “Understanding Autism“. Barry and Dave discuss Scott’s personal experiences leading to his motivation and goals in creating this feature length documentary.   Visit the Episode's webpage for more info and resources  

Understanding Autism, with Scott Steindorff

Episode 102 - Insights into Neurodivergence Following Brain Surgery: A Discussion with Jacki Edry, Autism Advocate, Parent and Cancer Survivor.  Jacki Edry’s personal journey as a brain surgery survivor and parent of autistic and neurodivergent children provides unique insight into the neurodivergent experience. Additionally, her courage and persistence during her ongoing process of recovery, and her desire to help others based on her experience is an incredible story from which we all can learn. Jacki shares her journey with Barry and Dave, and all she has learned that may be of benefit to neurodivergent individuals and their families. Find out more info and important resources on our website

Autism at the Holidays; Kristy Forbes; Kristen Finch

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