The Autism Dad

In this episode, Rob Gorski is joined by Amber Arrington from Autism Savvy. They delve into the topic of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), an often misunderstood profile within the autism spectrum. Amber shares her personal experiences as a mother of three autistic children, including a daughter who exhibits PDA traits. The discussion covers the challenges of navigating PDA, strategies for support, and the importance of educating both parents and educators.

Takeaways

Guest Bio:

Amber Arrington is the founder of Autism Savvy, where she supports parents navigating new autism diagnoses for their children. With over 20 years of experience and as a mother of three autistic children, Amber offers a unique perspective on the challenges and strategies involved in raising autistic kids. Her work focuses on empowering parents with knowledge and resources, especially in the critical early stages of diagnosis.

Connect with Amber at https://autismsavvy.com

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About Wishes and Co Travel Planning

Stephanie Peters and Shelby Knopp co-own Wishes and Co Travel Planning, specializing in special needs travel. They provide resources and support for families with special needs children, including social stories, visual schedules, and personalized accommodation and activity recommendations. Their goal is to make travel accessible and enjoyable for all families. They work with various budgets, plan vacations year-round, and offer complimentary services, dedicated to creating lasting memories for families.

Visit Wishes and Co Travel Planning

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and educators! Enhance your child's learning with Super Duper Publications! Our tools, designed by experts in speech-language and occupational therapy, include engaging games, books, and card decks perfect for any time, anywhere learning.

Visit Super Duper Publications

In this episode, Rob Gorski speaks with Susie Liberator, an entrepreneur and dedicated mother who shares her journey of balancing a thriving business career with raising a son diagnosed with autism. Susie opens up about the challenges and triumphs of leaving the corporate world to support her son's needs and offers valuable insights and advice for other parents on similar paths.

About Susie Liberatore:

Susie Liberatore is an entrepreneur and devoted mother, who left the corporate world to support her son after his autism diagnosis. She built a successful marketing agency and a software company, balancing work with her son's therapy and education. Based in Ohio, Susie advocates for autism awareness and support, encouraging parents to ask questions and trust their instincts. Connect with her at SusieLiberatore.com.

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to "The Autism Dad" podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice. Don't forget to leave a review and share this episode with other parents who might find it helpful.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About Wishes and Co Travel Planning

Stephanie Peters and Shelby Knopp co-own Wishes and Co Travel Planning, specializing in special needs travel. They provide resources and support for families with special needs children, including social stories, visual schedules, and personalized accommodation and activity recommendations. Their goal is to make travel accessible and enjoyable for all families. They work with various budgets, plan vacations year-round, and offer complimentary services, dedicated to creating lasting memories for families.

Visit Wishes and Co Travel Planning

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and educators! Enhance your child's learning with Super Duper Publications! Our tools, designed by experts in speech-language and occupational therapy, include engaging games, books, and card decks perfect for any time, anywhere learning.

Visit Super Duper Publications

Summary

In this episode, Rob Gorski interviews Dani Kinsley, an occupational therapist and product developer at Super Duper Publications. Dani shares how Super Duper creates a variety of educational tools, including card decks, books, games, and software, designed to support skills like speech articulation, problem-solving, and daily living activities. These user-friendly resources are crafted for both clinicians and parents, making them ideal for home use. Dani emphasizes the enduring value of analog learning tools, despite the digital trend, and notes Super Duper’s commitment to developing evidence-based products for neurodivergent learners. Listeners can explore their wide range of educational products on Super Duper’s website to support their children’s learning at home.

Dani Kinsley is an occupational therapist and product developer at Super Duper Publications. With a background in clinical practice and a passion for creating inclusive educational tools, she collaborates with speech language pathologists to design engaging resources for neurodivergent learners. Joining Super Duper in 2021, Danni brings both professional expertise and personal experience as a neurodivergent learner to her role, ensuring the products she develops are evidence-based and user-friendly. Dedicated to empowering parents and educators, Danni continues to advocate for accessible and enjoyable learning experiences for all children.

Here are the links mentioned in this episode:

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Summary

Stephanie Peters and Shelby Knopp are the co-owners of Wishes and Co Travel Planning, a travel agency that specializes in special needs travel. They provide resources and support for families with special needs children to plan successful vacations. They offer services such as social stories, visual schedules, and personalized recommendations for accommodations and activities. Their goal is to make travel accessible and enjoyable for families with special needs. They work with various budgets and can plan vacations all year round. Their services are complimentary and they are dedicated to creating lasting memories for families.

Stephanie Peters:

Shelby Knopp:

Wishes and Co Travel Planning

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

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Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and educators! Enhance your child's learning with Super Duper Publications! Our tools, designed by experts in speech-language and occupational therapy, include engaging games, books, and card decks perfect for any time, anywhere learning.

Visit Super Duper Publications

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Rob Gorski sits down with Dr. Usman Ali to discuss the nuances of pediatric dentistry, especially in relation to children with special needs such as autism and sensory processing disorders. Dr. Ali shares his insights on preventive care, strategies for reducing dental anxiety, and the options available for sedation and general anesthesia in a pediatric setting.

About the Guest:

Dr. Usman Ali is a dedicated pediatric dentist who has been practicing for over seven years. After completing his residency at the University of Rochester, he joined Akron Children's Hospital in Ohio. Dr. Ali specializes in treating pediatric patients, including those with special needs, and is deeply committed to making dental care accessible and comfortable for children facing various challenges.

Resources Mentioned:

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Learn More About Super Duper Publications

Hello, parents and educators! Enhance your child's learning with Super Duper Publications! Our tools, designed by experts in speech-language and occupational therapy, include engaging games, books, and card decks perfect for any time, anywhere learning.

Visit Super Duper Publications

Summary

In this conversation, Stacy Brookover, an intervention specialist, discusses her role in the school system and the importance of true inclusion for students with special needs. She explains the process of identifying students' needs and creating Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans. Stacy emphasizes the value of teacher training and the need for effective communication between parents and educators. She also provides insights on handling routine changes and addressing meltdowns in the classroom.

Stacy is an Intervention Specialist driven by her son's autism diagnosis at age three. After earning her Master’s in Education Administration, she became a staunch advocate for true inclusion in schools. Stacy has developed specialized programs in public schools to foster the holistic growth of all students—socially, emotionally, and academically. Her mission is to enhance special education practices and help educators fully understand and implement effective inclusion models.

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Learn more about ABLEnow

ABLEnow – tax-advantaged savings accounts for eligible individuals with disabilities. Learn if you, or someone you know, is eligible to open an ABLEnow account at ABLEnow.com.

ABLEnow

Harry Psaros, author of the book 'From Struggle to Strength: A Father's Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity,' shares his personal journey as an autism dad and the inspiration behind his book. He emphasizes the importance of mindset, resilience, and positivity in navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism. Psaros encourages parents to focus on continuous improvement, no matter where their child is on the spectrum, and to embrace their role as leaders in their child's journey. He also highlights the need for more voices and support for fathers in the autism community.

Harry Psaros is a passionate advocate and speaker on autism, residing near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As a father with a deep personal connection to autism through his son, Harry has turned his journey into a powerful narrative to help other parents navigate similar challenges. He is a board member of the Autism Caring Center and one of the founding families of North Fayette Pals, an organization dedicated to providing acceptance, love, and support for special needs children. Harry's extensive community involvement includes roles such as the president of the local Parks and Rec Board and vice president of the Greek Orthodox Church in Weirton, West Virginia. His commitment extends beyond his local engagements, as he is also an author and a proactive voice for fathers grappling with autism diagnoses. His book and public speaking engagements focus on themes of hope, positivity, grit, and resilience, aiming to empower parents with a warrior mindset derived from his background in martial arts and personal experience.

Get the book by clicking here.

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 the last 15 years.

Connect with Rob: theautismdad.link

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Rob sits down with Kimberly Hauck, the Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). They discuss the crucial role the DODD plays in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families across Ohio. Kimberly details her journey from starting as a direct support professional to leading the department, emphasizing the department's commitment to advocacy and resource provision.

Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.

Introduction:

- Host: Rob Gorski

- Guest: Kimberly Hauck, Director, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

Key Points Discussed:

1. Kimberly Hauck's Background:

- Over 30 years in the field of developmental disabilities, starting as a direct support professional and special education teacher, before moving into administrative roles.

- Committed advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

2. Role of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities:

- Oversees local county boards, serves as a regulator for service providers, and ensures accessibility to funds and resources for developmental support.

3. Transitioning from Youth to Adult Services:

- Importance of early intervention and support as individuals with disabilities transition from school to adult life.

4. County Board of Developmental Disabilities' Role:

- Help families navigate complex systems, manage eligibility for services, and support transitions.

- Provide various supports, including respite services and accessibility improvements in local communities.

5. Impact of Accessible Infrastructure:

- Recent initiatives to enhance accessibility, such as universal changing tables and accessible playgrounds, under Kimberly’s leadership.

6. Advice for Parents and Caregivers:

- Encouragement to connect with local resources early to maximize support and prepare for future independence of their children.

Resources Mentioned:

- NASDDDS website for national disability resources

- Early intervention programs for children from birth until age three

Conclusion:

Kimberly and Rob emphasize the importance of seeking help and utilizing available services, aiming to inspire and inform families about the support structures in place to foster independence and a better quality of life for individuals with disabilities.

Calls to Action:

- Visit DODD’s website for more information and resources.

- Reach out to your local board of DD to explore services and support available in your area.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Learn More: Goally

The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

Visit Goally

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode, Rob Gorski sits down with his eldest son, Gavin, who is autistic, to discuss the important and nerve-wracking journey of transitioning to adulthood. They delve into Gavin's experiences with job training, his first job, and the process of touring group homes as he plans his future.

Key Points Discussed:

- Transition to Adulthood: Gavin shares his progress and challenges as he navigates through important milestones like job training and exploring living arrangements.

- Touring Group Homes: Gavin talks about his criteria for a suitable group home and his feelings about touring such homes for the first time.

- Future Plans and Aspirations: Gavin discusses his aspirations to start a YouTube channel focused on gaming, aiming to build it as both a passion project and a safety net.

- Managing Health and Personal Interests: As someone who is immunocompromised, Gavin emphasizes the importance of living in a clean and healthy environment. He also shares how he wishes to include his future roommates in his YouTube gaming sessions.

Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier

Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Autism Dad" podcast. In this episode, Rob Gorski, your host, sits down with Kevin Miller, an autism dad and the Executive Director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), a state agency dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment.

In This Episode, You'll Discover:

- Kevin's Personal Journey: Kevin shares his personal story as an autism dad, discussing the challenges and revelations he and his family faced from early diagnosis to adulthood.

- Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD): Kevin provides an in-depth look at OOD, detailing how the agency supports individuals with disabilities across Ohio, helping them achieve independence through employment.

- The Power of Employment: Discover how Rob's son, Gavin, benefited from OOD's programs, gaining not just a job but a sense of purpose and autonomy.

- Navigating the Transition to Adulthood: Kevin and Rob discuss the often-daunting transition to adulthood for young people with autism and how programs like OOD can provide crucial support.

- Resources and Advice for Parents: Kevin offers resources and advice for parents navigating the journey of raising children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of fostering independence and finding purpose.

- A Father's Perspective: Both Kevin and Rob share their experiences and insights as fathers of autistic children, offering a candid look at the challenges, joys, and personal growth that comes with their unique parenting roles.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

- Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities: Explore the services and support offered by OOD by visiting OODWorks.com or calling 800-282-4536.

- Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.

Connect with Us:

- Subscribe to our Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to your podcasts.

- Follow The Autism Dad on Social Media: Stay up to date with the latest episodes and join our growing community.

Special Thanks:

A heartfelt thank you to Kevin Miller for sharing his story and expertise. His insights into the world of disabilities and the power of employment have the potential to change lives.

And, as always, thank you to our listeners for joining us on this journey. Your support and engagement make this podcast possible. If you found this episode helpful, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and sharing it with someone who might benefit from our discussions.

Don't miss our next episode, where we'll explore another important topic in the autism community. Subscribe now to stay updated!

Mentioned in this episode:

Learn More About Tranquil Path Financial Planning

Britta Kepf is a dedicated special needs financial planner at Tranquil Path Financial Planning, offering unbiased, tailored advice for families across the U.S. She specializes in retirement and special needs financial planning, helping families navigate government benefits and long-term needs with clarity and peace of mind. For compassionate, personalized financial guidance, contact Britta Kepf at tranquilfp.com.

Visit Tranquil Path Financial Planning

Learn More: 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.

Visit Mightier