The Autism Dad

In this week's special episode, join me and my 15-year-old autistic son, Emmett, as we discuss and answer your autism-related questions. Emmett shines with remarkable insights, sharing his unique perspective on the questions that matter most to you, the listener. You won't want to miss the wisdom Emmett brings to the conversation.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Meerkat Village

Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.

They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.

For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com 

Kinjo

Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.

Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”.

In this week’s episode, I talk with Joanna Lovejoy from Kinjo. Kinjo transforms your child's time on Roblox into educational and fun experiences. They help parents better navigate the 40 million games kids have to choose from within the Roblox Universe.

About Kinjo

Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.

Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Meerkat Village

Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.

They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.

For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com 

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Emmett, my 15-year-old autistic son, and we talk about the importance of self-care. I ask Emmett what he thinks about me making myself a priority, focusing on self-care, and having a personal life outside of the house. We also had a very personal conversation about my struggle with burnout earlier in the year and how I chose to handle it.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Meerkat Village

Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.

They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.

For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com 

Kinjo

Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.

Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”.

In today's episode, we dive deep into a topic many parents grapple with: how to tell your child they have autism. Join me as I sit down with my incredible 15-year-old son, Emmett, who himself is autistic. He shares his profound insights and personal experience about being on the receiving end of this pivotal conversation. Emmett's perspective is truly enlightening, and I couldn't be prouder to share this moment with him and all of you. Tune in for an episode packed with wisdom and understanding.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Meerkat Village

Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.

They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.

For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com 

Kinjo

Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.

Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”.

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with my 23-year-old autistic son, Gavin, for a deeply personal conversation. We delve into his aspirations, hopes, and vision for independence. Gavin's insights not only shed light on his unique journey but also resonate universally, offering inspiration to all. Join us as we uncover the profound meaning of independence from Gavin's perspective and celebrate the milestones, big and small, that shape his path

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Meerkat Village

Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.

They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.

For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com 

Kinjo

Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.

Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”.

Join us for a candid, enlightening, and sometimes hilarious conversation with my 15-year-old son Emmett, who shares his experiences living with autism and sensory processing disorder. With remarkable clarity, Emmett describes his reactions to various sensory inputs and offers a glimpse into his daily life. This episode, filled with Emmett’s captivating insights is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the spectrum of sensory experiences in autism.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Learn More About Mightier:

Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.

Goally:

Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

Dive into a heartwarming and eye-opening chat as I reconnect with my 15-year-old autistic son, Emmett, to unpack last week's emotional rollercoaster of an episode. Join us in a soul-searching journey as we discuss the public's reaction and explore my struggles as I emotionally try to grasp what Emmett experienced while he was nonspeaking. Find out how this candid conversation helps us find a sense of peace—and how it just might help you find yours too. Don't miss this transformative episode!

Check out last week’s viral episode “Before He Could Speak”

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Quiet Mind:

Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, an innovative tool for easing anxiety, stress, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder symptoms. This compact alternative to weighted blankets is created by Mikey Goldman, who himself deals with ADHD and anxiety. It's a portable companion, providing an instant calming effect. Unlike large weighted blankets, this soft, easy-to-move pillow won't make you too hot or claustrophobic. Using Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), it offers the benefits of weighted blankets in a smaller, portable format, ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. Consider it a stress ball for your body - hold it, hug it, and let your mind relax.

For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15%

Goally:

Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.

In today's very special episode, I'm sitting down with my 15-year-old autistic son, Emmett, for a truly unique conversation. For the first time, Emmett opens up about his experience of being non-verbal for the first 4.5 years of his life. This intimate discussion gives us a rare insight into the world of non-verbal autism, helping to challenge stereotypes and deepen understanding. You won't want to miss this emotional and enlightening episode that aims to inspire and educate.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Learn More About Mightier:

Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.

In this week's episode, we dive deep into the notion that we are 'more than just parents.' While parenting, especially when it comes to special needs children, often takes center stage in our lives, it's crucial to remember the unique individuals we are outside of that role. I’ll discuss personal experience in regards to losing a sense of self and how that all ties into self-care. Don't miss this empowering conversation designed to help you rediscover yourself beyond parenthood.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com

Kaboose:

Are you or someone you know autistic or neurodiverse? Then you've got to check out Kaboose. It's not just an app; it's a safe community where you can find and interact with friends who really get you. When you se up your profile, you can list your special interests—whether that's gaming, Dr. Who, animals, or even crocheting. Kaboose uses these interests to match you with like-minded people.

Worried about cyberbullying? Kaboose is building out a sophisticated AI tool designed to monitor for it because safety is a top priority. And their vision doesn't stop there; they're planning features for skill-building, mentoring, and job matching too.

For our younger friends under 13, just talk to your parents first. If you’re concerned about screen time? Remember, this is more than just an app; it's a safe space where your neurodivergent kiddos can genuinely be themselves, connect with others and feel accepted.  That’s so important because everyone deserves to feel accepted.. And hey parents, that goes for you too. Kaboose is a great way for you to connect with other parents and find support as well.

So why wait? Download the at kaboose.app and start building your tribe today.

Hey, what's up guys? It's Rob Gorski with The Autism Dead Podcast, and I just have a couple of quick, uh, announcements and some housekeeping things, uh, just to keep everybody on the same page, let you know what's going on for the next couple of weeks. Um, we're about 35 episodes into season six and, uh, it's a lot of episodes for one person to manage with.

Everything else that I'm doing. I. So it's about that time of year where I take a break, right? Uh, so we're gonna take off most of September, and, and that just means that there'll be no episodes airing on Mondays. I'm gonna continue pushing out episodes every Wednesday. For, uh, like the parenting Q&A stuff, when you guys send in questions and I just kind of answer them briefly, it takes a couple of minutes.

Those are more manageable right now, and I can, I can pull those off while I'm doing all this stuff on the backend. So for the next few weeks, uh, probably through the end of September, it'll just be releases on Wednesday and then we'll pick back up in October. It may change just kind of depending on how everything goes because I'm going on vacation in September.

So, uh, we'll just kind of play that by ear. But I just wanted to let you guys know that's what's going on. So there'll be no Monday episodes. Uh, through the end of September, but Wednesday episodes we'll continue as well as episodes releasing on the Autism Dad Ohio podcast as well. Those drop every Friday, so you guys make sure you can check that out as well.

So you can always stay up to date by visiting theautismdad.com and, uh, there'll be up-to-date information there as well. So, uh, thank you all so much for tuning in. I really appreciate all the continued support and, uh, remember Wednesdays we'll be releasing and Mondays we'll be back. In end of September-ish.

All right. Thanks a lot guys. We'll talk soon. Bye.

About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:

Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.

Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com