The Autism Dadvocate Podcast

A lot of parents have heard that autism is "more common in boys" - but that simple line can raise big questions (and sometimes big worries). In this episode, Maya Talukdar from Harvard Medical Schooll joins Paul to help us sort out what might be going on, from how girls can be overlooked or mislabeled to the fascinating idea that some girls may have a built-in "buffer" that makes autism harder to spot. We'll translate the science into real-life takeaways—what parents should notice, and how this knowledge can lead to earlier support for kids who need it.

In this episode, Paul And Maya discuss the following:

1. Is Autism Really More Common in Boys? - What the Numbers Say - and What They Don't…
2. Why Girls Can Get Missed: Masking, Different Symptoms, and How Stereotypes Shape Diagnoses
3. The "Female Protective Effect" in Plain English: A Possible Built-In Buffer (and Why It Matters)
4. What Parents Can Do Next: Signs to Watch For, and Where Research May Help Families Soon

What should parents know before bringing an autistic child to the ER or doctor's office? This episode offers real-world strategies and expert insight to help you advocate for better care.

In this episode, Paul sits down with Mojdeh Mostafavi, a Master of Public Health (MPH) candidate at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, to explore how and why the health care system often falls short for autistic patients—and what parents can do to better prepare.

Drawing from both her academic training and personal experience growing up with a brother on the autism spectrum, Mojdeh offers practical, compassionate guidance for families facing medical visits, hospitalizations, and emergencies.

Together, they discuss:

• Why traditional health care environments can be especially difficult for autistic individuals
• How parents can prepare for doctor's visits, procedures, and ER situations
• The often-overlooked transition from pediatric to adult care—and why it matters
• What autism-informed care really looks like (and how it benefits the whole family)

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or health care professional, this conversation will give you actionable insights to advocate more effectively and create better experiences for autistic patients.

What happens when years of neurodiversity advocacy collide with the reality of raising an autistic child?

In this episode, Paul talks with Charles Kransberger, a neurodiversity expert and father, about his journey and insights. They explore practical strategies for supporting autistic children, planning for the future, and creating meaningful opportunities at home, in school, and in the workplace. Plus, Charles shares his vision for a more inclusive world—and what parents and organizations can do today to make it real.

• Charles personal journey as a neurodiversity advocate

• His perspective as a Dad and how it reframed his view of autism after working in the Field for years

• Neurodiversity in Practice — Insights from the Field

• Charles' practical advice for Dads

• The Future of Neuroinclusion

What happens when families procrastinate planning for their autistic child's future? In this episode, Paul sits down with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage® and father of a neurodivergent child, to uncover the hidden risks families face when they delay essential steps in planning for their child's future.

Too often, parents focus on surviving today's demands, therapies, school meetings, and daily care, without realizing how unprotected their family may be if something happens tomorrow.

Together, Paul and Michael discuss why true planning isn't just about the child's future, it's also about protecting the well-being of parents and siblings. From common insurance blind spots to the emotional weight of procrastination, this conversation offers clarity, practical awareness, and encouragement for families who want to avoid painful mistakes and build confidence for the road ahead.

In this episode, Paul sits down with Jett Stone, a leading psychologist specializing in men's mental health, to explore the unique emotional challenges faced by fathers of autistic children. Often overlooked in the broader conversation, these fathers frequently navigate their journeys in isolation—quietly bearing the weight of uncertainty, stress, and profound love for their children. We'll discuss why community and connection matter, and how breaking the silence can foster resilience and connection. Together, Jett and Paul shine a light on the importance of friendship, shared experience, and mental wellness in the lives of these amazing dads.

Discussion Topics:

• The hidden emotional toll on fathers raising children on the autism spectrum

• Why fathers often experience isolation—and what prevents them from seeking help

• The role of friendship and bonding in supporting mental health

• Strategies and support systems that can make a difference: from peer groups to professional resources

In this episode, Paul is joined by Michael Szafron, a Vice President of Sales & Operations who was diagnosed with autism at age 41. They dive into the real-life challenges autistic professionals face at work—from getting hired to moving up the ladder—and share honest insights on navigating workplace relationships, culture, and career growth.

Michael and Paul will discuss the following:

• how the hiring process impacts autistic applicants

• common workplace challenges for autistic workers

• how autistic workers can navigate workplace relationships and cultures

• the challenges of career advancement and mobility

In this episode, Paul is joined by Jodi Carlton, a leading world expert in mixed neurotype relationship dynamics and communication. Her YouTube channel - Neurodiverse Relationships - has amassed 15,000 subscribers and 1,000,000+views of its video content.

Jodi and Paul discuss the following:

-understanding the unique relationship dynamics within the autism community

-how autistic teens can build self-confidence and self-esteem

-navigating the online dating worlds

-how autistic teens can spot "red flags"

-how Dads can support their autistic daughters and sons with dating

In this episode, Paul interviews Stefan Bjes, Founder of Blue Line Spectrum Safety and a patrol sergeant with 19 years of experience in the greater Chicago area. Stefan is also the father of two autistic sons.

We'll explore a critical topic for parents of autistic children: how to prepare them for interactions with law enforcement, particularly during traffic stops. Together, we'll discuss strategies to help your child remain calm, communicate clearly, and manage sensory sensitivities when faced with flashing lights or loud sirens.

We'll also cover the importance of role-playing these scenarios, teaching your child how to disclose their autism to officers, and providing them with tools like autism ID cards.

Join us for this vital conversation on empowering autistic children to stay safe and confident during police encounters.

Yep, we're going there, going deep into the pure messiness of being the father of an autistic child. In this solo podcast, Paul goes deep and vulnerably into all the areas where fathers are challenged, particularly with all the different roles that these amazing Dads play every day.

Paul discusses the following roles:

• Surprise, surprise! you're a human being first before your role as a Dad

• Okay, let's now discuss your role as a father

• Your role as spouse / partner

• Your role as a friend (and supportive Dadvocate)

In this podcast, Paul interviews Susanna Lovell, Life Coach and author of the recently-released book - Your True Self Is Enough: Lessons Learned on My Journey Parenting a Child with Autism". Susanna shares her journey of navigating through the worry and heartbreak of raising a special needs child. She ultimately finds her true life calling: to help other parents find and realize joy and passion in their own lives. Episode outline: Paul and Susanna discuss the following:

• Susanna's journey as a single mom
• Susanna's struggle with postpartum depression and anxiety
• Her daughter's autism diagnosis and co-morbidities
• How our culture treats families with disabilities
• Susanna's life lessons on self-care as a parent