What does a genuine, lifelong friendship look like?

In Episode 30 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Kam and Mike share the story of a remarkable friendship that has lasted more than 40 years. Their conversation reminds us of the importance of seeing beyond differences, building authentic relationships, and recognizing the incredible blessings people with special needs bring to our lives.

This heartfelt episode offers encouragement to parents, families, and anyone who believes in inclusion, connection, and the power of true friendship.

Watch the full conversation, then share your thoughts in the comments. Please like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more honest conversations from Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism.

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations:https://gregorysgifts.com

#BeyondExpectations #ParentingAutism #AutismAcceptance #SpecialNeeds #Inclusion #Friendship #Podcast

In Episode 29 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Dr. Jonathan Chism, co-founder of the Autism Dads Social Club, for an honest conversation about raising his non-speaking autistic son.

Jonathan shares his journey from diagnosis and uncertainty to acceptance, advocacy, and connection—and explains why community is so important for fathers navigating autism.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations: www.gregorysgifts.com

#Autism #AutismDad #AutismParenting #Fatherhood #CaregiverSupport #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 28 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by author, coach, and fellow autism mom Susanna Peace Lovell for an honest conversation about raising her daughter, Arizona, navigating the unexpected, and learning to care for yourself while caring for someone you love.

Susanna shares her journey through diagnosis, advocacy, self-care, building a support system, and helping other special-needs families feel less alone.

Learn more about Susanna at www.susannapeacelovell.com, follow her on Instagram @mamapeace, and listen to her as co-host of the Brave Together podcast.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations: www.gregorysgifts.com

#Autism #AutismParenting #SpecialNeedsParenting #CaregiverSupport #Neurodiversity #SelfCare #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 27 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Allysen Ortega, Gregory’s friend since fifth grade and now a special education teacher.

Allysen shares how her friendship with Gregory inspired her career and shaped her commitment to inclusion. They also discuss Unified programs, IEPs and 504 plans, school evaluations, and the importance of strong partnerships between parents and educators.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Shop thoughtful, unique gifts while supporting Greg’s growing small business at www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 26 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Kelli Fortner, principal of Quitman Elementary, for a real-world look at special education, inclusion, and supporting students at school.Inspired in part by growing up alongside Gregory, Kelli shares why she entered special education and how schools are moving toward more individualized support, higher expectations, and inclusion.They also discuss IEPs, early intervention, parent-school communication, and why working together can help every child reach their potential.This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Shop thoughtful, unique gifts while supporting Greg’s growing small business at www.gregorysgifts.com.#Autism #SpecialEducation #IEP #Inclusion #AutismParenting #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 25 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Doris Champlin, Gregory's former high school paraprofessional, for a heartfelt conversation about inclusion, advocacy, and helping students with autism succeed in school.

Doris shares what it's really like supporting students with special needs, why communication between parents and educators is essential, and how focusing on life skills, independence, and confidence can make a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.

Whether you're navigating IEPs, preparing for high school, or looking for ways to better support your child, this episode offers practical encouragement and valuable perspective for parents, caregivers, and educators alike.

Learn more about Gregory's small business at www.gregorysgifts.com and help support his journey toward independence.

In Episode 24 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome LynnLee Schmidt for a conversation about the powerful connection between people and animals.

LynnLee shares how meaningful animal experiences can encourage confidence, connection, learning, and growth for individuals with autism and their families.

Learn more about Tanganyika Wildlife Park: https://www.twpark.com

Learn more about KultureCity: https://www.kulturecity.org

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 23 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Derek Crager for a conversation about employment, independence, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with autism.

Derek shares practical insights on preparing for the workplace, developing life skills, and how the right support can help individuals on the spectrum build confidence and thrive in their careers.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 22 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome occupational therapist Rondalyn Whitney to explain sensory processing and how it affects children with autism.Rondalyn shares practical strategies to help parents better understand sensory needs, emotional regulation, and simple tools that can make everyday life easier for children and families.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 21 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Gregory's former teacher and coach, Clark Stukey, to discuss the life-changing impact of Unified Sports and inclusive education.

Clark shares how creating opportunities for students with and without disabilities transformed not only Gregory's high school experience, but also the lives of countless students. Together, they explore the power of inclusion, teamwork, and believing in every child's potential.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.