How do we help our neurodivergent kids feel confident in

• Why body image issues impact autistic and ADHD kids

• How Dr. Casares’ daughter inspired her new book

• The lasting effects of diet culture on kids (and parents)

• Helping neurodivergent kids navigate social media pressure

• Practical ways to address sensory eating and movement

• Scripts and strategies parents can use when tough

• Why BMI isn’t the full picture of health for children

• How to model body confidence while managing your own

Dr. Casares is a board-certified pediatrician and public health

Website: modernmommydoc.com

Rob Gorski is the founder of The Autism Dad blog and host of

Algonot: Check out NeuroProtek, a brain-supporting flavonoid

If you found this episode helpful, please follow The Autism

In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with my 25-year-old autistic son, Gavin, for a candid update on his journey. We talk about his transition out of a group home, what he’s learning along the way, and his hopes for the future.

If you’re parenting autistic children or supporting neurodivergent kids as they grow into adulthood, this conversation offers both real-world challenges and encouraging progress. Gavin shares openly about work, housing, self-care, and even his dream of becoming a streamer. These insights matter for families navigating the shift from childhood to adult life with autism.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

Why Gavin left his group home and what families should look out for

The importance of stable hours and fair pay when autistic adults enter the workforce

How self-advocacy and job coaching can support independence

Gavin’s goals for future housing and financial stability

Honest reflections on managing stress and remembering to ask for help

His interest in streaming, content creation, and sharing his experiences online

The role of grandparents and family support in transitional stages

Gavin’s approach to self-care and why he’s trying a massage for stress relief

If you’re raising neurodivergent kids, this episode is both relatable and inspiring. It shows the ups and downs of supporting an autistic young adult, while also reminding us how much growth is possible with patience, advocacy, and support.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss an episode. You can also visit theautismdad.com for more autism parenting resources, personal stories, and ways to connect.

Sponsors

Algonot – NeuroProtek® A brain-supporting flavonoid supplement developed by a Yale-trained neuroinflammation expert. Supports brain health, immune function, and neuroinflammation. Save 5% with code ROB5 at ⁠algonot.com

Mightier — Help your kids build emotional regulation skills through play. Save 10% with code theautismdad22 at mightier.com.

About Rob Gorski

Rob Gorski is the father of three autistic children and the host of The Autism Dad Podcast. As the founder of The Autism Dad blog and podcast, Rob shares his family’s 25-year autism journey to educate, validate, and support parents worldwide. His work has been featured on CNN, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, and the Tamron Hall Show.

About Gavin Gorski

Gavin Gorski is a 25-year-old autistic adult navigating the challenges of independent living, employment, and personal growth. He brings unique insight into the adult autism experience and shares openly about his goals, struggles, and dreams for the future.

Parenting a child with disabilities often means putting your own needs last. But when you’re running on empty, burnout can take over and everyone feels the impact. In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I talk with Dr. Regina Crone and Julie Hornok, co-founders of Labeled and Loved, an organization devoted to supporting moms raising kids with disabilities.

Fresh off their appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show, Regina and Julie share their personal journeys, how burnout affects moms, and why community, connection, and self-care aren’t luxuries they’re essential for survival. Whether you’re navigating autism parenting, raising a child with ADHD, or managing complex medical needs, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling seen, understood, and supported.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The personal stories that inspired Regina and Julie to create Labeled and Loved

The unique challenges and burnout risks for moms raising kids with disabilities

How to rebuild community when isolation takes over

The importance of celebrating small wins that others might not understand

How Labeled and Loved retreats give moms a space to rest, connect, and recharge

Tips for finding ongoing support through local and virtual “Sisterhood Circles”

Why self-care is not selfish when you’re parenting a child with disabilities

How to take the first brave step toward prioritizing your own wellbeing

Learn More About Labeled and Loved:

Website: https://labeledandloved.org

Upcoming Retreat: October 10 - 12, Dallas, TX (Registration closes September 10)

About Rob Gorski

Rob Gorski is an autism parenting advocate, award-winning blogger, and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. A single father to three autistic children, Rob uses his personal journey to educate, validate, and offer practical support to parents raising neurodivergent kids. His work has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more. Learn more at https://theautismdad.com.

About Dr. Regina Crone

Dr. Regina Crone is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a lifelong connection to the disability community through her younger brother’s autism diagnosis. She co-founded Labeled and Loved to create the community her family never had, offering retreats, events, and ongoing support for moms raising kids with disabilities.

About Julie Hornok

Julie Hornok is a speaker, author, and advocate whose daughter was diagnosed with autism shortly after her second birthday. After experiencing the isolation and burnout so many moms of children with disabilities face, she co-founded Labeled and Loved to provide connection, encouragement, and resources for mothers nationwide.

Sponsors:

REM Ohio: Caring for an adult with developmental disabilities can be overwhelming. REM Ohio’s Shared Living program lets you become a paid caregiver for your loved one, with added support through day programs and group homes. Not caring for a loved one? You can still make a difference as a non-family provider. Part of the Sevita Health network. Learn more at rem-oh.com or call 1-330-644-9730.

Mightier: Helping kids learn self-regulation through fun, clinically proven games. Visit mightier.com for more info.

Listen & Subscribe

Official Website: listen.theautismdad.com

This week, we’re talking about something every autism parent needs to think about—but many don’t until it’s too late: water safety and wandering. If you’ve ever felt the panic of not knowing where your child went or struggled to keep them safe near water, this episode is for you.

I’m joined by Dr. Molly O’Shea, a pediatrician with the American Academy of Pediatrics, autism mom, and the official pediatrician for Goldfish Swim School. We explore the very real risks around drowning in the autism community and what parents can do to keep their neurodivergent kids safe—starting as early as infancy.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why autistic children are at significantly higher risk of drowning

The connection between wandering and sensory-driven curiosity

How kids on the spectrum process water differently

Why swim lessons need to start earlier than most parents realize

How swim programs like Goldfish adapt to neurodivergent learners

Why swimming builds more than safety—it builds confidence and cognitive development

What parents can expect from a sensory-friendly swim program

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast, leave a review, and check out our amazing sponsors below - your support keeps this podcast going strong.

Visit theautismdad.com for more resources, blog posts, and episodes.

Sponsors This Week:

Algonot – NeuroProtek®

A brain-supporting flavonoid supplement developed by a Yale-trained neuroinflammation expert. Supports brain health, immune function, and neuroinflammation.

Save 5% with code ROB5 at algonot.com

Mightier

Created at Boston Children’s Hospital, Mightier helps kids build emotional regulation through biofeedback video games. A helpful tool for autism and ADHD. Save 10% with code theautismdad22

Learn more at mightier.com

Guest Bio:

Dr. Molly O’Shea is a board-certified pediatrician, autism mom, and the official pediatrician for Goldfish Swim School. With over 30 years of experience, she consults nationally on sensory-friendly care and water safety for kids of all developmental profiles.

Goldfish Swim School: goldfishswimschool.com

Host Bio:

Rob Gorski is a single dad to three autistic kids, the voice behind The Autism Dad blog, and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. Rob shares honest, experience-based insights to help families feel more supported and less alone.

More from Rob: theautismdad.com

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Autism

Joining me is Dr. Kristen Guillory, a leading voice in men’s mental health and

This Week’s Sponsors:

NeuroProtek®
Developed by a Yale-trained neuroinflammation expert, NeuroProtek is a

Mightier
Mightier helps kids with autism and ADHD learn emotional regulation through biofeedback and fun video games. It's a tool I used personally with my own kids, and it made a huge difference. Learn more at https://mightier.com use the code "theautismdad22" and save 10%.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Kristen Guillory is a former professor of counseling and social work, a

Host Bio:

Rob Gorski is the founder of The Autism Dad platform and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. A single father to three autistic children, Rob turned his personal journey into a lifeline for other families. He’s been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more, and his award-winning blog and podcast reach hundreds of thousands of parents seeking hope and support.

Need a smile today? This episode is your dose of joy.

Aria—my 9-year-old stepdaughter and fan favorite—is back on the podcast and taking over the mic. From overcoming her fear of water to her growing love for Stranger Things and Taylor Swift, Aria is full of heart, humor, and surprises. Stick around to the end for her incredible rendition of “NeverEnding Story.” You don’t want to miss it.

Aria shares her world in a way only a neurodivergent kid can. Whether you’re a parent of autistic children or just need a boost of hope, this episode is a reminder that progress comes in many forms—and joy is often found in the little things.

Link to Aria's Minecraft Movie Review: https://pod.fo/e/2c91bc

What we talk about in this episode:

Aria’s 9th birthday update and summer highlights

Overcoming fear of water through swim lessons

Her experience at bike camp and learning to ride

Confidence-building moments and milestones

Music class, school talent shows, and performing on stage

What it was like to take a photo with the mayor

Her love for Stranger Things (with a disclaimer for younger kids)

A behind-the-scenes look at our dog Kacie and birthday plans

Aria’s live performance of “NeverEnding Story” from Stranger Things

Support our amazing sponsors:

🧠 Mama Bird – Brain-focused multivitamins for kids, created by a neurologist mom. Get 20% off your first order:

⁠lovemamabird.com/theautismdad

🎮 Mightier – Help your child learn emotional regulation through video games backed by science. Mightier has been a game-changer for my family.

Try it free for 30 days: mightier.com/theautismdad

Love what you hear?

Subscribe to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite app.

Check out past episodes and resources at listen.theautismdad.com.

Join the conversation on Instagram: @theautismdad

Want to support the show or be a guest? Visit theautismdad.com

About Rob Gorski:

Rob Gorski is an autism advocate, content creator, and father of three autistic sons. He’s the founder of The Autism Dad platform and host of The Autism Dad Podcast. Rob’s mission is to support and empower families raising neurodivergent kids through honest conversations, lived experience, and practical advice.

theautismdad.com

About Aria:

Aria is a vibrant 9-year-old who loves music, dogs, Stranger Things, and making people laugh. She’s been featured in multiple episodes of the podcast and brings her unique perspective and big heart to everything she does.

Let me know if you’d like a short social post or YouTube short setup for this episode.

In this powerful conversation, Rob talks with Jennifer Kaufman, educator, and grandmother to an autistic child - about the often overlooked but critical role that grandparents play in the lives of neurodivergent kids. Jennifer shares wisdom from her book Grandparenting on the Spectrum and opens up about navigating her dual role as both a seasoned professional and a grandparent still learning to step back.

This episode is a must-listen for parents and grandparents alike who want to create stronger, more supportive relationships without stepping on each other’s toes.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why well-meaning grandparents can unintentionally make things harder—and how to fix that

The importance of respecting parental boundaries, even when you “know better”

How to build meaningful relationships with autistic grandkids (especially from a distance)

Why letting go of old expectations can make room for deeper connection

Practical advice for grandparents navigating IEPs, meltdowns, and special routines

Tips for handling holidays and vacations with neurodivergent kids

The most supportive thing a grandparent can say (and what not to say)

How Jennifer’s book can help families communicate, collaborate, and grow together

About My Guest:

Jennifer Kaufman is an educator, former autism school principal, and author of Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey From Both Sides of the Desk. She’s also the proud grandmother of an autistic child and speaks regularly to grandparent groups about inclusion, understanding, and support. Learn more or connect with Jennifer at:

https://www.grandparentingonthespectrum.com

Facebook: @GrandparentingOnTheSpectrum

Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/40W0L2e

About Rob:

Rob Gorski is a single dad to three amazing autistic sons and the voice behind The Autism Dad blog and podcast. A nationally recognized autism advocate and keynote speaker, Rob has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more. He creates content that supports and validates parents of neurodivergent kids. Learn more at:

https://www.theautismdad.com

Call to Action:

If this episode helped you feel seen, pass it on. Share it with a grandparent, a parent, or anyone helping to raise a neurodivergent child. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and visit:

https://www.listen.theautismdad.com

for more episodes. You can also support this podcast by checking out our sponsors below.

Today’s Sponsors:

NeuroProtek® – Brain-supporting flavonoid supplement developed by a Yale-trained neuroinflammation expert. Save 5% with code ROB5 at ⁠https://www.algonot.com.

Mightier – Help kids learn emotional regulation through play. Learn more:

https://www.mightier.com

Use code “theautismdad” for a discount.

When you’re parenting autistic children or kids with high support needs, it’s easy to wonder how it all impacts their siblings. Do they feel forgotten? Overwhelmed? Lost in the shuffle? In this heartfelt episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with autism mom Amy Kelly and her adult son Danny for a raw, emotional, and hopeful look at the sibling experience—and why it matters more than we often realize.

Amy is a powerhouse in the autism community. She’s the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux and a longtime advocate for autism support for families. But this episode isn’t about professional titles—it’s about her lived experience as a mom raising profoundly autistic Annie, while trying to meet the needs of her neurotypical sons, including today’s guest, Danny.

Danny brings a sibling’s perspective that every parent needs to hear. He opens up about what it was like growing up with a sister who needed constant care, the unspoken pressures siblings carry, and how he’s now leading a national effort to support siblings like him.

Whether you’re parenting autistic children or raising neurodivergent kids of any kind, this episode offers valuable insight, encouragement, and a reminder that every child in your home deserves to feel seen.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

What it’s really like growing up with a sibling who has autism or profound disabilities

Why siblings may feel isolated, unseen, or forgotten—even in loving homes

How parents can better balance attention between neurodivergent and neurotypical kids

The lifelong bond between siblings, and how it evolves into adulthood

Danny’s work creating resources and community through Devereux’s sibling initiative

Practical ways siblings can stay connected and prepare for future caregiving roles

How autism reshaped (not ruined) their family in powerful ways

Why redefining success and independence is key for autistic individuals

Subscribe, Support, and Connect:

If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to help more families find this content. You can visit theautismdad.com for articles, resources, and updates—or if you’re interested in sponsoring an episode, get in touch.

This episode is sponsored by:

Mama Bird – Brain-focused kids’ multivitamins designed by a neurologist mom. Get 20% off your first order at lovemamabird.com/theautismdad.

Mightier – Help your child build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback video games. Learn more at mightier.com and use the code "theautismdad22" to save 10%.

About Rob Gorski (Host):

Rob Gorski is a single dad to three autistic sons and the creator of The Autism Dad blog and podcast. He shares real-life stories, insights, and support for parents raising neurodivergent kids. Rob’s work has been featured by CNN, ABC, BBC, and The Tamron Hall Show.

Contact: [email protected]

About Amy Kelly:

Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, is the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health and mom to three kids, including her daughter Annie, who has profound autism. Amy is a national advocate for disability support, working with organizations like the Autism Care Network and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Contact: [email protected]

About Danny Kelly:

Danny Kelly is the older brother of Annie, who has profound autism. He co-chairs Devereux’s Sibling Engagement Committee and serves on the National Family Advisory Board. Danny uses his lived experience to advocate for siblings and inclusive support across the disability community.

Is your child struggling—and you’re not getting answers from “normal” tests? Hit play. This could change everything.

In Part 2 of my powerful conversation with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, we explore how neuroinflammation, mast cell activation, and overlooked biological factors can affect autistic children. We dive into my son Gavin’s journey, how traditional testing failed us, and what we discovered when we looked deeper. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or unsure where to turn next, this episode will give you new hope and direction.

Why this matters:

Too often, symptoms like gut issues, eczema, or extreme food sensitivity get brushed off. Dr. Theo shares what many pediatricians miss—and how identifying and treating the right things can dramatically improve quality of life for neurodivergent kids.

What We Cover:

What neuroinflammation means for autistic children

How mast cells can impact behavior, speech, and health

Why standard labs often miss important clues

The difference between food allergies and food sensitivities

What to test for—and how those tests can uncover treatable issues

Gavin’s personal health journey and the lessons we’ve learned

How to support your child without trying to change who they are

Why we need real research, not empty promises

Sponsor: Mama Bird

Mama Bird Kids Multi+ is brain-focused nutrition for neurodivergent kids. Designed by a neurologist and autism mom, these supplements support focus, mood, and learning—without sugar alcohols or artificial dyes. Available in liquid (ages 1+) and gummy (ages 4+).

Get 20% off your first order at lovemamabird.com/theautismdad

Mightier helps kids learn emotional regulation through fun, biofeedback-powered games. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier is a screen-based program that teaches kids to stay calm under pressure—while they play. USe the code "theautismdad20" to save 10%

Learn more by visiting https://theautismdad.com/mightier

Enjoying the podcast?

Please follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. For more support, visit theautismdad.com, where you’ll find expert interviews, honest parenting stories, and trusted resources to help your family thrive.

Guest Bio: Dr. Theoharis Theoharides

Dr. Theo is a renowned physician-scientist and expert on mast cells, allergies, and neuroinflammation. With decades of research and hundreds of publications, he helps families uncover treatable biological conditions often missed in traditional autism care. Learn more at drtheo.com and algonot.com.

Host Bio: Rob Gorski

Rob Gorski is the father of three autistic children and the creator of The Autism Dad blog and podcast. He’s been sharing his family’s 25-year autism journey to help other parents feel seen, supported, and empowered. Rob’s work has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more.

Could neuroinflammation be driving your child’s symptoms? This episode will change how you think about autism and health.

In this two-part series of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts in neuroimmune medicine and mast cell research. We dig deep into how inflammation in the brain—driven by overactive mast cells—can contribute to the struggles many autistic and neurodivergent kids face, including sensory issues, eczema, gut problems, chronic sinus issues, and even regression.

Dr. Theo doesn’t just talk theory—he shares actionable steps and science-backed insights that have the potential to improve quality of life for families like ours. I even share some personal stories about my sons, and how this research explains things we’ve experienced for years.

Whether your child is dealing with eczema, unexplained aggression, or GI issues, this episode may offer a new lens on what’s going on under the surface—and what you can do about it.

In this episode, we discuss:

What mast cells are and how they can impact the brain

How neuroinflammation may be linked to autism, ADHD, and chronic conditions

The surprising connection between eczema and autism

Why symptoms like gut issues and behavior changes are often misunderstood

The role of vitamin D, folinic acid, and glutathione in autism support

How stress can trigger mast cell activation and impact behavior

What testing and natural interventions parents can explore

How to think critically about supplements and avoid misleading claims

This episode is sponsored by Safe Place Bedding

Safe Place Bedding provides medically necessary, insurance-covered safety beds that help neurodivergent children sleep safely and securely—at home or while traveling. They’ve just launched the Safe Place 300, a permanent safety bed option with integrated monitoring. Visit https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. You can also visit listen.theautismdad.com for more episodes, resources, and to leave feedback.