What if the key to understanding autism isn’t in behavior… but in the brain itself? In this enlightening conversation, Dr. David Amaral of the UC Davis MIND Institute reveals the one topic that could change everything: brain donation. It’s sensitive. It’s rarely discussed. But it could unlock answers we’ve been searching for. Discover what brain donation actually looks like, how it honors the autistic community, and why this conversation matters more than ever.

Follow Dr. David Amaral -

Website: www.autismbrainnet.org

Facebook and X: @AutismBrainNet

Email: [email protected]

We’re answering your real-life parenting questions—from potty struggles to public stares—and announcing April’s Embracing Autism Grant winner, chosen from our Patreon members. Plus, important updates about how the grant and newsletter is changing starting in June 2025.

Support our mission and unlock 5 bonus entries today, Become A Member: patreon.com/autismwish

Is your child really speaking through someone else—or are you being misled? Today, we tackle the hot-button issue of facilitated communication (FC) and the explosion of pseudoscience in the autism world, especially after the viral success of The Telepathy Tapes podcast. Joining us is Dr. Katharine Beals—autism expert, linguist, and mother to an autistic child—who helps us cut through the noise. Learn what FC really is, why it's so controversial, and how to protect your family from misinformation disguised as progress. This is a must-listen for any parent trying to separate evidence-based practice from viral hype.

Website: www.facilitatedcommunication.org

Social Media: @katharinebeals.bsky.social

Ever feel like your social life disappeared the moment you became an autism parent? You’re not alone — and you’re not a bad friend. In this episode, we get real about the hidden struggles no one talks about: canceled plans, isolation, misunderstood boundaries, and the guilt that tags along. If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to “just hang out” anymore, this one’s for you. Listen now to feel seen — and maybe even a little less alone.

Support our mission and unlock perks by becoming a member today: patreon.com/autismwish

Ever feel like your brain is in a constant tug-of-war between hyper-focus and forgetfulness, social burnout and impulsivity? You’re not alone! As a family with three AuDHD-ers ourselves, this conversation with renowned AuDHD author Sarah Hendrickx hits close to home. We define 'AuDHD' and dive into the daily challenges, unexpected strengths, and the unique ways we navigate a world that wasn’t built for our neurotype. From executive dysfunction to sensory chaos, we’re getting real about what it means to live with both autism and ADHD. If you’ve ever felt you or child have been misunderstood, this one’s for you!

Website: www.asperger-training.com

It’s Autism Acceptance Month! While we’re celebrating our kids’ progress, we’re also facing new uncertainties—our newest member of the family is showing some early signs of autism, but is it too soon to tell? In this episode, we share our journey of balancing optimism with caution, the emotional side of watching for signs, and what autism acceptance means beyond critical awareness.

Support the podcast & get extra chances in our Embracing Autism Grant selection! Become A Member today: patreon.com/autismwish

Struggling to co-parent an autistic child? Family law expert Sara Donohue shares powerful tips on managing custody schedules, handling sensory needs, and improving communication – even in high-conflict situations. Learn how to create a stable, low-stress co-parenting dynamic that works for your child. Don’t miss these expert-backed strategies!

Find Sara at Stein Sperling:

Facebook @steinsperling

Instagram @stein_sperling

Website: www.steinsperling.com

Teaching self-advocacy to autistic kids can feel impossible—but it doesn’t have to be! We’re breaking down why it’s so hard and sharing practical tips to help your child express their needs, no matter how they communicate. You don’t want to miss this!

Support our mission and unlock exclusive perks, Become A Member today: patreon.com/autismwish

What if you had a secret weapon to protect your autistic child—both online and in the real world? This cutting-edge device is helping families stop wandering, detect online threats, and provide real-time safety like never before.

In this exclusive early-access episode of Embracing Autism IRL, I sit down with Katey McPherson from Bark Technologies to uncover how this breakthrough technology is changing the game for autism families.

🎧 Watch it FIRST before anyone else, only on Patreon!

💙 Get your Bark Watch & support AutismWish: https://bit.ly/bark4autism

📢 Sponsored by Bark Technologies, LLC

In today’s episode, we’re exploring a game-changing topic—Artificial Intelligence. Could AI be the next big breakthrough for the autism community, or does it come with hidden risks? We’re diving into how AI could revolutionize communication, learning, and daily living, while also uncovering potential concerns about privacy, bias, and dependency. You won’t want to miss this balanced look at the promise and pitfalls of AI!

Unlock members only perks while supporting our mission, Become a Member today: patreon.com/autismwish