In this powerful conclusion to our three-part Special Needs Financial Planning series, I’m joined once again by Katy Bryan, a Special Needs Financial Planner with Skylight Financial Group. In this episode, we tackle the toughest part of the journey—planning for our child’s future after we’re gone.

This isn’t easy to talk about, but having a plan in place can ease a lot of the anxiety many of us carry every day. Katy and I dive into what end-of-life planning looks like for special needs families, including estate planning, guardianship, housing options, and how to prepare siblings or support systems for what’s ahead.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why end-of-life planning is one of the most important steps for special needs families

What a Special Needs Trust is and how it helps protect your child’s future

The growing importance of ABLE accounts and how they work

Understanding guardianship vs. power of attorney

Housing challenges and how to prepare your child for independence

How to make sure your wishes—and your child’s—are honored when you’re not there

Why it’s never too late to start planning, even if you’re behind

Meet Katy Bryan:

Katy Bryan is a licensed financial professional and special needs financial planner at Skylight Financial Group. With over 14 years of experience, Katy has helped families across the country build financial strategies that support long-term security for children with disabilities. Her empathetic approach makes complex planning more manageable and less overwhelming for parents.

Email Katy: [email protected]

Learn more: https://www.skylightfinancialgroup.com/

This Week’s Sponsors:

Safe Place Bedding

Safe Place Bedding provides medical-grade, customizable, and insurance-covered sleep solutions for children with disabilities. Their new permanent bed model, the SPB 300, includes a built-in monitoring system. Learn more at https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad

Mightier

Mightier is a biofeedback-based gaming platform that helps kids learn emotional regulation skills through fun, engaging play. It’s clinically tested and loved by families. Learn how it can support your child at https://theautismdad.com/mightier (Use the code theautismdad20 and save 10%)

Connect with Me:

Website: https://theautismdad.com

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://instagram.com/theautismdad

Podcast: https://listen.theautismdad.com

If this episode resonated with you, please consider leaving a review, sharing it with someone who needs it, or reaching out to let me know your thoughts. Your feedback keeps this community strong.

Show Notes: Special Needs Financial Planning (Part 2) — The Autism Dad Podcast

In this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski continues the special needs financial planning series with guest Katy Bryan from Skylight Financial Group. Katy specializes in helping families of children with disabilities plan for the future and shares key steps to prepare for your child’s transition to adulthood.

Rob and Katy discuss why everything changes at age 18: managing assets under $2,000, understanding Social Security benefits (SSI/SSDI), and navigating Medicaid. They explore common questions around special needs trusts, guardianship, and power of attorney, and offer tips for finding a financial or estate planner with real disability expertise. Rob shares his own family’s journey—the struggles, learning curves, and how resources like vocational programs made a difference for his kids.

Highlights:

Guest Info:

Katy Bryan, Skylight Financial Group

Email: [email protected]

Thank You to This Week’s Sponsors:

Safe Place Bedding

Safe Place Bedding creates portable, durable beds for children and adults with special needs. Their new Safe Place Bedding 300 offers advanced monitoring for safer, better sleep. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com.

Autism 360

Autism 360 provides families with practical tools and expert guidance for therapy, education, and everyday life—personalized to help your child thrive. Discover more at autism360.com.

Connect with Rob:

Find more episodes, resources, and ways to connect at theautismdad.com.

Have questions or feedback? Reach out through the website!

If you found this helpful, please subscribe and leave a review—see you next week for part three!

Disclaimer:

Catherine Bryan is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investor Services, LLC, member SIPC, OSJ, 1956 Carter Road, Suite 200, Cleveland, Ohio 44113, Phone: (216) 621-5680. California Insurance License #4175736.

The information in this podcast is not a recommendation and is not intended as financial, tax, legal, or estate planning advice. You should seek guidance from a qualified financial advisor, accountant, and attorney regarding your personal situation.

While my production computer is down, I’m re-releasing this powerful episode that so many parents found helpful the first time around. If you’re raising a non-speaking or minimally speaking child, or if you're trying to better understand apraxia and communication differences in autism—this conversation is for you.

I’m joined again by Samantha Fox, M.A., CCC-SLP—an incredible speech-language pathologist and founder of Beyond Speech Therapy Center. Samantha specializes in working with non-speaking autistic individuals and is a certified Spelling to Communicate (S2C) practitioner.

We talk openly about:

What apraxia really is—and how it’s often misunderstood

Why some autistic kids can understand language but still can’t speak

The difference between language delays and motor-based speech challenges

Why “presume competence” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential

My son Emmett’s experience being non-speaking and how it shaped my perspective

A powerful message from 17-year-old speller Kaden that will absolutely stay with you

This conversation will challenge assumptions and give you a new way to view communication struggles. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator—you’ll walk away better informed and hopefully more hopeful.

🎧 Listen now anywhere you get your podcasts or at: https://listen.theautismdad.com

This episode is sponsored by:

🛏 Safe Place Bedding

🎮 Mightier

This episode is being re-released for Autism Awareness Month.

In this powerful and important conversation, I’m joined by returning guest Dr. Whitney Casares. She’s not only a Stanford-trained pediatrician and public health expert, but she’s also an autism mom raising two differently wired kids. Together, we tackle a topic many of us try to avoid—puberty.

This episode is packed with practical advice, validation, and real talk for parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children. We explore how puberty may present differently, how to support our kids through emotional and physical changes, and how to have open, shame-free conversations about boundaries, hygiene, sex, and self-care. Whether your child is verbal, non-speaking, cognitively delayed, or anywhere in between—this episode is for you.

Key Topics Covered:

This conversation was originally uncomfortable for me to have—but I’m so glad I did. Your kids will benefit when you feel more empowered to guide them through this stage of life.

Guest Info:

Dr. Whitney Casares is a pediatrician, author, public health expert, and autism mom. Learn more at www.modernmommydoc.com

This episode is sponsored by:

Mightier:

Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges.

Learn more and try it free for 30 days at ⁠mightier.com/theautismdad⁠.

Autism 360

The Autism 360 program helps parents become confident leaders in their child’s care by providing expert-led coaching and support. Learn more at autism360.com

Safe Place Bedding

Safe Place Bedding provides inflatable and permanent safety beds for kids with special needs. Their products offer peace of mind and better sleep—for the whole family. They even help navigate insurance. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com

Connect with me:

April is Autism Awareness Month, and this episode with Dr. Tay is one of the most important conversations I’ve had. We dive into how autism shows up differently in girls—and why so many are missed or misdiagnosed. If you’re a parent, educator, or just want to better understand the nuances of autism, this one’s a must-listen.

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Taylor Day (aka Dr. Tay), a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuroaffirming care for autistic kids—especially girls. We talk about how autism can look very different in girls compared to boys, why so many girls are misdiagnosed or missed altogether, and what parents can do to make sure their daughters get the support they need.

Dr. Tay breaks down the most common signs of autism in girls, how masking can complicate the diagnostic process, and why co-occurring conditions like anxiety often delay a proper diagnosis. This conversation is full of insight and practical advice for parents and caregivers—especially those who feel like something’s going on but can’t quite get answers.

What we talk about:

• Why autism is harder to spot in girls

• Masking, camouflaging, and missed diagnoses

• What to look for if you suspect your daughter might be autistic

• The role of anxiety and other co-occurring conditions

• How to advocate for your child when doctors don’t listen

• Getting evaluations and choosing the right provider

About Dr. Tay:

Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist and the founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. She specializes in early diagnosis and support for autistic kids, with a focus on neuroaffirming care for girls who often present differently. She’s also the host of the Evolve with Dr. Tay podcast and creates free educational content for parents on social media.

• Website: drtaylorday.com

• Instagram: @the.dr.tay

• Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (available on all major platforms)

About Me:

I’m Rob Gorski, host of The Autism Dad Podcast. I’m a single dad to three amazing autistic kids and I’ve been sharing our journey for over 15 years to help support families like mine. Through my podcast, blog, and social media, I aim to educate, empower, and connect with parents raising neurodivergent kids.

• Website: theautismdad.com

This episode is sponsored by Mightier.

Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges.

Learn more and try it free for 30 days at mightier.com/theautismdad.

This episode is also sponsored by Safe Place Bedding.

Safe Place Bedding makes affordable, portable safety beds for kids with special needs. These beds offer a secure, comfortable sleep space and are a game changer for families dealing with sleep issues or elopement concerns. Safe Place also helps parents navigate insurance so you may not have to pay out of pocket.

Visit safeplacebedding.com to learn more and check your insurance coverage.

Today’s episode is full of joy and Minecraft magic! Rob is joined by a very special guest, Aria. Aria is Kelly's 8 year old daughter with autism. Fresh off seeing the new Minecraft Movie, Aria shares her thoughts, favorite moments, and tips for parents wondering if it’s a good pick for their kids. They also dive deep into the game itself—breaking down game modes, favorite mobs, plushies, add-ons, and the endless creativity that makes Minecraft such a hit for kids and grownups alike.

Whether you're a longtime Minecraft fan or just curious what the hype is about, this lighthearted conversation is guaranteed to make you smile. Aria, you're amazing, and we’re all so proud of you!

🎮 Topics Covered:

• Aria’s honest review of the Minecraft Movie (spoiler-light)

• Game modes in Minecraft (survival, creative, hardcore, and more)

• Minecraft add-ons, plushies, and lava chickens

• Differences between Java and Bedrock editions

• Why Minecraft is great for all ages

This week’s episode is sponsored by:

🛏 Safe Place Bedding

If your child struggles with sleep due to sensory needs or safety concerns, Safe Place Bedding can help. Their customizable, medically necessary bed enclosures offer peace of mind—and they even help families navigate insurance. Learn more about their brand-new permanent model, the Safe Place 300, which now includes monitoring features.

👉 Visit safeplacebedding.com for more info.

🧠 Autism 360

Autism 360 is an all-in-one, parent-driven program built to help families raising autistic kids get expert support in key areas like behavior, communication, sensory needs, and more. It’s flexible, affordable, and guided by professionals who get it—because many of them are parents too.

👉 Learn more at autism360.com

—

Connect with Rob:

🌐 TheAutismDad.com

📸 https://instagram.com/theautismdad

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to leave a rating, share with a friend, and let Aria know she did a great job!

In this special Autism Acceptance Month episode, I’m re-sharing an important and personal conversation with my oldest son, Gavin.

Gavin is 25 years old, autistic, and immunocompromised. In this episode, we talk about his journey toward independent living and why he’s choosing to move into a group home. Gavin shares his thoughts, hopes, fears, and goals—including launching his own YouTube channel and building a sustainable future for himself.

We discuss:

• What Gavin is looking for in a group home

• Health and hygiene concerns due to his compromised immune system

• The emotional challenges of touring potential homes

• Gavin’s budgeting process and side-hustle plans

• His passion for gaming and creating a relaxed, inclusive online space

This is a real, unfiltered conversation about growing up, letting go, and navigating life with autism. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or self-advocate, I hope this episode helps you feel seen and less alone.

🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this.

Want to support the podcast or be a guest?

Visit theautismdad.com for more info, contact links, or to explore sponsorship opportunities.

🛏️ Safe Place Bedding

If your child struggles with sleep, safety, or elopement, Safe Place Bedding offers custom in-home safety beds that can truly make a difference. Their beds are portable, insurable, and now include new monitoring options for added peace of mind. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more and explore their newest model—the Safe Place 300.

🧦 Parker & Talia

Parker & Talia creates tag-free, sensory-friendly essentials that help kids feel comfortable and confident. Founded by a fellow autism mom, their clothes are soft, inclusive, and made with love. Get 10% off your order with code THEAUTISMDAD at parkerandtalia.com.

Welcome to Part 1 of a powerful three-part series focused on special needs financial planning. In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Katy Bryan, a Chartered Special Needs Consultant from Skylight Financial Group. Katy brings over 14 years of experience helping more than 250 families plan for their future. We’re breaking things down into real, understandable steps—starting with the basics.

This episode focuses on the early stages of the journey—from diagnosis (or even before) to preparing for the unexpected. We talk about what parents should start thinking about when they first realize their child may need lifelong support, and how to start planning financially without being overwhelmed.

• Why financial planning matters early in the special needs journey

• Common challenges families face right after diagnosis

• How and when to reach out to your county Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD)

• Understanding Medicaid, Social Security, and how income affects eligibility

• What a waiver is and why you want to get on the list ASAP

• Navigating stigma, burnout, and the lack of direction many parents feel

• The emotional toll of those early years—and why it’s okay if you’re not thinking long-term yet

• When to start thinking about special needs trusts, STABLE accounts, and other tools

Katy helps parents shift from survival mode to building a solid financial foundation for the future—one step at a time. Whether your child just received a diagnosis or you're several years into the journey, this episode is full of validation, guidance, and real-world advice.

Katy Bryan

Chartered Special Needs Consultant, Skylight Financial Group

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Licensed to work nationwide

Give your child the gift of better sleep with Safe Place

Bedding’s travel-friendly, sensory-friendly sleep solutions.

Visit: https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad

Autism 360 is a neuro-affirming app for parents of autistic children, offering 24/7 expert guidance, personalized plans, and practical support for daily challenges. Trusted by thousands, it provides affordable, real-time help. Use the code “theautismdad” to save 10%

https://smartlink2.metricool.com/public/smartlink/autism-360-robtheautismdad

Mightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through

biofeedback-based video games.

Learn more & save 10% with code 'theautismdad22': https://www.mightier.com

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, leave a

review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Your support helps bring

more resources to families like yours. Thanks for being here, and I’ll talk to

you next week!

Disclaimer:

Kathryn Bryan is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC.

OSJ: 1956 Carter Road, Suite 200, Cleveland, OH 44113 • (216) 621-5680

CA Insurance License number: 4175736

The information in this podcast is not a recommendation and is not intended as financial, tax, legal or estate planning advice. You should seek guidance from a qualified financial advisor, accountant, and attorney regarding your personal situation.

CRN202803-8296799

This week’s episode is deeply personal and incredibly important.

I’m rereleasing this conversation from a previous season because the message still resonates just as strongly—and it’s something every parent, educator, and professional working with non-speaking kids should hear.

What started as a simple audio test with my son Emmett turned into one of the most powerful and emotional conversations we’ve ever had. We were just testing out some new podcasting gear, but Emmett opened up in a way I hadn’t expected.

He shared vivid memories of what life was like before he could speak—how it felt, what he understood, and how frustrating and lonely it was to be trapped in his own thoughts with no way to communicate.

We talk about:

• Emmett’s memories of being non-speaking as a toddler

• The emotional toll of not being understood

• How he experienced the world, despite being assumed “incompetent” by some

• What it felt like when he finally broke through and began to speak

• The importance of presuming competence in non-speaking individuals

• Simple things we did to support communication and why they mattered

• Emmett’s advice to parents trying to connect with their non-speaking kids

This conversation is a reminder that language doesn’t equal intelligence. Just because a child can’t speak doesn’t mean they aren’t listening, feeling, thinking, or understanding.

I’m so proud of Emmett for opening up about this. His voice is one that needs to be heard, and I’m excited to continue this father-son dialogue in future episodes.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Follow me online:

• Podcast Website: listen.theautismdad.com

• Blog: theautismdad.com

• Instagram: @theautismdad

• Facebook: facebook.com/theautismdad

In this solo episode, I dive into a topic that’s been weighing on my heart—validation in the autism community. There’s a growing divide between those who see autism as a superpower and those who experience it as a significant disability. Both perspectives are valid, but we need to recognize that no single experience defines autism.

Key takeaways:

• Autism exists on a vast spectrum, and no two experiences are alike.

• Some individuals thrive and see autism as a strength, while others face profound challenges.

• We must validate and respect all perspectives without dismissing or diminishing anyone’s experience.

• Parents and autistic individuals alike should be able to share their personal journeys without fear of judgment.

• Unity within the autism community is crucial to advocating for better understanding and support.

Many parents and autistic individuals feel unseen when their experiences are dismissed. Whether autism is empowering or disabling, every perspective matters. By supporting each other and allowing diverse narratives to coexist, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.

Connect with me: TheAutismDad.com

Join my private parenting support group: theautismdad.com/support

Listen Now:

Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Podcast Website

Contact me at theautismdad.com/contact.

Let’s continue this conversation. What’s your experience with validation in the autism community? Drop your thoughts in the comments or tag me on social media.

New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe and leave a review if this episode resonated with you.

Follow on social media:

Instagram | Facebook

Thanks for tuning in. See you next week.

If you’re looking for a safe, comfortable, and travel-friendly sleeping solution for your autistic child, check out Safe Place Bedding. Their durable, inflatable safety beds help create a secure sleep environment at home or on the go. Designed by special needs parents, these beds offer peace of mind and better rest for the whole family.

Learn more and shop now at SafePlaceBedding.com.