Today, we are diving into an important and deeply personal topic: navigating autism and the parent-child relationship when a child is on the spectrum. To help us explore this, we have the incredible father-son duo, Barry and Jake Freeman, joining us. Barry and Jake are here to share their unique perspective on living and thriving with autism as a family. Their journey is not only inspiring but also offers valuable insights and a refreshing outlook for those who are on a similar path.

In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand experiences from Barry and Jake. They’ll discuss the challenges and triumphs they’ve encountered along the way - from switching schools and navigating new environments to advocating for services and celebrating small successes.  Their story is one of resilience, growth, and unwavering support.

Jake will share his experiences with different educational settings and offer advice to others who might be hesitant to try new things. His journey through college, where he learned crucial life skills and embraced independent living, is particularly inspiring. Barry will talk about the importance of networking, asking questions, and connecting with other parents. 

We’ll also hear about the incredible bond between Barry and Jake, and how this relationship has helped them navigate the ups and downs of autism. Barry’s touching reading of the poem "Welcome to Holland" serves as a powerful reminder to love the journey you’re on, no matter how different it may be from what you expected.

Show Notes:

[2:20] - It is helpful to hear from people who are living similar experiences.

[3:38] - Jake shares the differences he experienced when switching schools.

[4:32] - Barry describes some of Jake’s qualities and the challenges he experiences as someone on the autism spectrum.

[6:47] - Jake offers his advice to those who struggle with trying new things that seem frightening at first.

[8:44] - The college that Jake attended allowed him to learn life skills with an emphasis on independent living.

[10:10] - Networking is crucial. Ask a lot of questions and connect with other parents.

[11:35] - When asked about what he wishes he knew in the earlier days, Barry says he should have been more aggressive in advocating for services.

[14:33] - Documentation is not only helpful but is crucial in advocating for services.

[16:23] - Jake shares what his job and career goals are and what he is currently doing to volunteer and stay active in the community.

[18:42] - No test or assessment will ever tell you what your child will be able to accomplish.

[19:48] - Every child needs someone in their corner, advocating for their needs.

[21:13] - Keeping the end goal in mind is great, we have to celebrate the little steps and successes along the way.

[22:15] - Barry shares a powerful poem called Welcome to Holland that proves the importance of loving the journey you’re on.

About Our Guests:

Jake Freeman:

Jake Freeman embraces life without letting labels define him, despite being told at a young age that he is on the spectrum. He lives at home with his parents, and his younger sister, Julia. Jake enjoys reading a variety of books, watching horror, comedy, and action movies, and playing board games and card games with friends. He has participated in basketball, softball, and bowling through the Special Olympics, recently winning a basketball tournament and gearing up for a new bowling season.

Jake's educational journey includes switching to Village Glen in the 6th grade, where he found a supportive environment with friends and teachers he connected with. He later attended a college near Bakersfield, CA, which focused on independent living skills such as budgeting, public transportation, and job skills. While Jake currently lives with his parents, he possesses the skills to live independently, having navigated various roommate situations in the past. His advice to younger individuals on the Spectrum is to not be afraid to put themselves out there and try new things.

Barry Freeman:

Barry Freeman and his wife Karen have two children, Jake and Julia. Barry works in the entertainment industry as a film ratings and broadcast standards consultant. He served on the Motion Picture Association’s ratings board for a decade and has spent the past 12 years working independently with film producers to help them secure desired ratings (G, PG, PG-13, etc.). Barry has also contracted with companies such as Netflix, CBS, Sony Pictures, and the Game Show Network.

In his personal life, Barry enjoys long-distance running, working out, following Boston sports teams, and spending time with his family and friends. He is also a foodie. Karen was the primary advocate for Jake during his younger years, a role Barry has taken on in recent years. Barry was Jake’s soccer coach for the “VIP program” before Jake went to college, and he looks forward to volunteering again in the Autism community upon retirement. 

Connect with Barry and Jake:

• Email: [email protected] 

Links and Related Resources:

• Episode 168: 5 Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Youth

• Episode 194: What is Neurodiversity-Affirming Care? with Kody Harms

• Episode 185: Late Diagnosis: Why Did I Get Missed? with Dr. Monica Blied

• Episode 78: Supporting Youth with Autism and ADHD with Holly Blanc Moses

Connect with Us:

• Get on our Email List

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• Get Support and Connect with a ChildNEXUS Provider

• Register for Our Self-Paced Mini Courses with LIVE AMA Sessions

The Diverse Thinking Different Learning podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or legal advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed by the host and guests are not considered treatment and do not necessarily reflect those of ChildNEXUS, Inc or the host, Dr. Karen Wilson.