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How can we support autistic children with more compassion and less control? In this episode of The Autism Round Table, host Leah Gross sits down with behavior analyst and life coach Kaitlin Wilder to explore a new, heart-centered approach to working with autistic individuals. From challenging outdated models of behavior therapy to introducing tools from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Kaitlin offers a refreshing and deeply empathetic perspective on what it means to truly connect with and understand autistic children.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Kaitlin Wilder shares her transformation from traditional behavioral frameworks to a more holistic, human-centered practice. Drawing from her 15 years of experience, she explains how compassion and flexibility can make therapy more effective and sustainable. The conversation touches on the growing awareness of PDA, the integration of ACT to promote emotional awareness and value-based motivation, and the importance of meeting children where they are—without judgment or force. Together, Leah and Kaitlin explore how turning toward pain and discomfort can lead to greater freedom, both for parents and children, in their shared journey of growth.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Kaitlin’s Journey into Autism Coaching
04:29 Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)
12:54 Compassion and Validation in ABA
25:29 Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
32:48 Motivating Through Values
33:16 Understanding Human Emotions with ACT
34:40 Challenging the Concept of Normal
37:23 The Role of Authority in Therapy
39:11 Empowering Parents and Children
44:16 Turning Towards Pain for Freedom
49:40 Connecting with Children on Their Level
Ready to reimagine what compassionate support looks like for autistic children?
Tune in to the full episode for practical tools, heartfelt stories, and expert insights from Kaitlin Wilder.
What happens when a mom discovers her own neurodivergence while advocating for her kids and turns it into a mission to help other families and business owners thrive?
In this episode, neurodivergent coach Talia Zamora joins Leah Gross to share a real-world roadmap for calmer homes, stronger self-advocacy, and businesses that fit real life.
Summary of the Conversation:
Talia traces how her sons’ late-recognized autistic traits opened her eyes to a broader, more accurate picture of neurodivergence within her family—and herself. She explains her shift from industry process improvement to coaching neurodivergent women and families, translating Lean-style clarity into humane routines, boundaries, and supports. With concrete examples (adjusting classroom seating, planning gentler transitions, scheduling recovery time after social events), she shows how small, consistent tweaks reduce dysregulation. Talia reframes dyslexia as a memory and processing profile, sharing tools like detailed digital calendars, voice notes, and “WhatsApp-to-self” to stay organized. She discusses AuDHD patterns, special interests, and the power of self-advocacy at work: flexible start windows, sensory-friendly clothing, and choosing meeting cadence that sustains performance. The throughline is permission, building environments that fit people, not the other way around.
About The Guest:
Talia Zamora is a UK-based neurodivergent coach who supports businesswomen and families navigating autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and related profiles. With a background in business improvement and Lean methods, she blends systems thinking with compassionate, lived understanding to create practical plans that actually work at home, at school, and at work.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
Ready to build routines, environments, and work rhythms that actually fit you and your family?
Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies you can use today.
What does it really mean to accept an autism diagnosis—and how can that acceptance shape the lives of children, teens, and adults alike? In this episode, licensed professional therapist Kesley Rogers joins Leah Gross to explore the journey of navigating autism, ADHD, and related challenges across the lifespan.
Kesley Rogers shares her path from volunteering with Project Search to becoming a licensed therapist specializing in neurodivergence. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting autism diagnoses, not as limitations but as opportunities for growth and support. The discussion spans early childhood challenges, teenage struggles with anxiety and depression, and adult issues like masking, job placement, and black-and-white thinking. Kesley highlights the need for open communication, advocacy, and emotional support while encouraging families and individuals to embrace authenticity and pursue fulfilling work and relationships.
About The Guest:
Kesley Rogers is a licensed professional therapist practicing in Tennessee and Alabama. With over a decade of experience in the autism community, she works with children, teens, and adults, focusing on neurodivergence, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and related conditions. Her passion lies in helping individuals and families navigate diagnoses, find their strengths, and live authentically.
Time Stamps:
(02:09) Early inspiration and understanding the autism spectrum
(05:52) The debate around labeling and diagnosis
(09:55) Autism as a “superpower” and guiding strengths
(11:11) Accepting individuality instead of forcing conformity
(13:22) Common diagnoses in Kesley’s practice
(16:26) Communication and advocacy with families and schools
(19:50) Functional solutions for ADHD challenges
(22:30) Challenges from early childhood to school years
(25:28) Teenage years: anxiety, depression, and social struggles
(33:30) Masking: effects, risks, and long-term outcomes
(43:29) Adult challenges: late diagnosis, job placement, and fulfillment
(55:49) Using special interests to guide work choices
(59:23) Purpose, structure, and the importance of meaningful work
Ready to rethink how we approach autism, acceptance, and support at every stage of life?
Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and heartfelt insights from Kesley Rogers.
What does it really mean to navigate life and career as an autistic professional in today’s world? In this episode, we sit down with Shea Belsky, autistic self-advocate, tech lead at HubSpot, and host of the Autistic Techie podcast, to hear his journey from childhood therapies and IEPs to leading teams in major tech companies. Shea opens up about masking, relationships, advocacy in the workplace, and how embracing neurodiversity can transform both careers and lives.
Shea Belsky shares his inspiring journey as an autistic self-advocate and accomplished professional in the tech industry. From childhood therapies and parental support to navigating internships at IBM and Google, Shea explains how he learned to identify his triggers, regulate his energy, and advocate for himself in demanding environments. He opens up about masking and its emotional toll, the critical role his parents played in his independence, and the supportive partnership he built with his wife. Professionally, Shea discusses his leadership experience as CTO at Mentra, his return to HubSpot, and how he uses his podcast Autistic Techie to amplify neurodivergent voices. His message throughout is clear: kindness, honesty, and communication are the cornerstones of thriving—both personally and professionally.
About The Guest:
Shea Belsky is an autistic self-advocate, technology leader, and podcast host. Currently a Tech Lead at HubSpot, his career path has taken him through companies like IBM, Google, and Wayfair, as well as serving as CTO at Mentra, a neurodiversity employment network. In addition to his professional work, Shea hosts the Autistic Techie podcast, where he explores what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent person in the tech world.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
(00:18) Shea’s background and career journey
(01:52) Growing up autistic: sensory and social challenges
(03:35) Managing energy through spoon theory & social battery
(05:06) Therapies, independence, and parental support
(07:10) Meeting his wife and navigating relationships
(09:41) Thoughts on Love on the Spectrum and autistic relationships
(13:36) Career path: IBM, Google, Wayfair, HubSpot, and Mentra
(20:23) How to disclose autism to a manager effectively
(26:14) Leading a neurodivergent team at Mentra
(30:31) Job seeking, anxiety, and masking
(36:22) Sensory regulation and workplace strategies
(39:50) Launching the Autistic Techie podcast
(44:35) Advocacy, awareness, and stereotypes about autism
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Shea Belsky on LinkedIn: Shea’s LinkedIn
Listen to Shea’s podcast: Autistic Techie
Call to Action:
Ready to learn how self-advocacy and openness can transform the way neurodivergent professionals thrive in life and work?
Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights from Shea Belsky.
What does it really mean to receive an autism diagnosis—and how can parents best support their children without suppressing who they are? In this episode of The Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross welcomes Kara Nash, ASDCS, RN, a registered nurse, autism consultant, and advocate, who shares her professional expertise and lived experience as an autistic adult. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of diagnosis, therapies, parenting choices, and the importance of embracing neurodivergent identities.
Discussion Points:
Kara Nash brings both professional knowledge and personal insight into autism, weaving her 20+ years of mental health nursing with her experience as an autistic adult. She and Leah discuss the importance of accurate diagnosis, what the DSM-5 levels mean, and how parents can balance encouraging growth with respecting their child’s natural wiring. Kara highlights the significance of distinguishing between physiological responses (like sensory overload) and behavioral challenges, shares practical approaches to stimming, and explains how attachment objects and special interests can be powerful tools. They also address the sensitive but essential topics of suicide risk, medication, and advocacy. Throughout, Kara emphasizes that the goal isn’t to “fix” autistic individuals but to support them in living full, authentic, and connected lives.
About The Guest:
Kara Nash, ASDCS, RN, is a registered nurse with over two decades of experience in mental health, spanning inpatient, emergency, rehab, and community care. She has served as a camp nurse for autistic individuals, worked as a care manager, and now leads a private practice specializing in autism advocacy, consultation, and parent coaching. Diagnosed as autistic herself in her thirties, Kara brings a unique dual perspective that bridges professional expertise and lived experience.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Kara’s autism diagnosis and why it mattered
07:48 Autism levels explained (DSM-5)
15:12 Common diagnostic markers and asymmetrical development
18:45 Advice for parents: traditional vs. affirming goals
27:35 Supporting vs. correcting: where parents should focus efforts
39:24 Stimming explained: why it happens and how to respond
49:59 Parent coaching strategies and puberty challenges
55:25 Language matters: “autistic” vs. “person with autism”
01:05:41 Advocacy and creating inclusive environments
01:14:08 When medication might be appropriate
01:21:06 Tracking progress and journaling for treatment clarity
Links for the Guest:
Connect with Kara Nash on LinkedIn: [LinkedIn Profile]
Visit Kara’s website: [Website Link]
Call to Action:
Ready to reframe the way you see autism and better support your child’s journey?
Tune in to the full episode for powerful insights from both a professional and lived perspective.
How can executive functioning, reflex integration, and sensory processing impact a child’s ability to thrive? In this enlightening episode of The Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross sits down with pediatric occupational therapist Efraim Simkhayev to explore practical strategies for supporting children with developmental challenges. From real-life therapy tools to the power of parenting with empathy, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Efraim Simkhayev shares his journey into pediatric occupational therapy, describing how personal experience as a parent shaped his empathetic and holistic approach to treating children. He breaks down executive functioning as the “brain’s management system” and explains how difficulties in areas like working memory, organization, and impulse control can affect children’s daily lives. The conversation dives into emotional regulation, how trauma and reflex integration play a role, and why early developmental milestones like crawling are foundational. Through real case examples and practical advice, Efraim emphasizes the importance of adapting therapy to meet each child’s unique needs. His core philosophy: connect before you correct.
About The Guest:
Efraim Simkhayev is a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in executive functioning, reflex integration, and sensory processing. As both a clinician and a father of three, Efraim brings a warm, grounded, and insightful approach to helping children grow in confidence and independence.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Efraim’s journey into OT and family background
05:00 How he discovered his passion for working with children
08:03 Unexpected opportunity that changed his career path
11:12 What is executive functioning?
12:37 Real-life case example and treatment strategies
14:39 Emotional impact of executive dysfunction on children
15:44 Teaching impulse control and emotional regulation
18:00 Stop-and-go exercises and real-life application
22:19 Executive functioning and neurodivergent children
26:49 How long does therapy take?
30:19 Different strengths and challenges in the brain
32:07 Limbic system and emotional regulation
35:11 Effective treatments for regulation challenges
38:38 Reflex integration and anxiety
41:15 Why crawling is essential to development
45:12 Vestibular input and hyperactivity
46:40 Galant reflex and bedwetting
49:32 Final message for parents and caregivers
Call to Action:
Ready to understand your child’s behavior through a new lens?
Tune in to the full episode for valuable insights that will empower your parenting and therapeutic approach.
What does it mean to truly support neurodivergent children through speech therapy? In this episode, Leah Gross is joined by Christina Beta, a seasoned speech-language pathologist, to explore a powerful shift in therapy—moving from compliance-based methods to neurodiversity-affirming, child-led support. If you're a parent, educator, or therapist looking to better understand how to empower children with autism through connection and communication, this conversation is for you.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Christina Beta shares her evolution from traditional speech therapy models to a neurodiversity-affirming approach centered on respect, autonomy, and co-regulation. She discusses the importance of meeting children where they are, incorporating their unique interests into therapy, and empowering parents with practical tools. Christina explains Gestalt language processing and offers actionable advice on teaching communication skills in everyday moments. Her approach highlights the value of authentic connection, advocacy, and seeing all behavior as meaningful communication.
About the Guest:
Christina Beta is a speech-language pathologist with a background in special education. She is passionate about supporting neurodivergent children through sensory-friendly, child-led therapy and is a vocal advocate for shifting the paradigm of speech therapy to one that affirms neurodiverse identities. Her work is rooted in empathy, family collaboration, and respect for each child’s autonomy.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Christina's Background and Experience
00:55 Journey into Autism Support
02:07 What is Neurodiversity-Affirming Therapy?
03:35 Techniques for Regulation and Connection
06:11 Family-Centered Goals in Speech Therapy
11:36 Gestalt Language Processing
16:30 How Parents Can Support Communication
25:44 The Power of Being Present
26:33 Behavior as a Form of Communication
30:26 Teaching Communication through Everyday Interactions
33:34 Role Play and Pre-Teaching Explained
40:51 Advocacy and Building Support Systems
How can a mobile therapy bus change a child’s life? In this episode of The Autism Roundtable, host Leah Gross sits down with Luba Patlakh-Kaplun, founder of Kidology Inc., to explore her journey from broadcast journalism to pioneering pediatric therapy. Discover how Luba’s innovative, whole-child approach is reshaping the landscape of care for autistic children—and empowering families along the way.
Discussion Points:
Luba Patlakh-Kaplun shares the inspiring story behind Kidology Inc., a pediatric therapy center with a mobile arm that brings multidisciplinary care directly to children. Drawing from her own experiences as an immigrant and a mother, Luba emphasizes the power of empathy, innovation, and culturally sensitive care. She dives deep into how her team integrates multiple therapy modalities—like speech, occupational, physical, and behavioral therapy—to serve children with autism. Listeners will also learn about her unique focus on breathing, myofunctional therapy, and movement-based interventions like yoga. Her insights offer a fresh look at how pediatric therapy can be both holistic and deeply human.
About The Guest:
Luba Patlakh-Kaplun is a licensed speech-language pathologist and the founder of Kidology Inc., a thriving pediatric therapy center that includes mobile and in-clinic services. With a background in broadcast journalism and a deep passion for helping children with disabilities, Luba brings creativity and compassion to every aspect of her work. She is also a mother, entrepreneur, and advocate for immigrant families navigating autism services.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Introduction and Guest Background
01:05 – Inspiration and Career Path
02:08 – Innovative Mobile Therapy Clinic
05:30 – Kidology Gyms and Community Impact
08:35 – Multidisciplinary Approach to Therapy
15:16 – Speech Therapy and Autism
24:15 – Parental Involvement and Home Strategies
26:47 – Introduction to Bilingual Background
28:49 – Navigating Autism as an Immigrant Parent
31:42 – Balancing Motherhood and Therapy
35:46 – Understanding Myofunctional Therapy
42:59 – The Importance of Breathing Techniques
47:16 – Incorporating Yoga in Therapy
Curious how pediatric therapy can be both innovative and personal?
Tune in to the full episode to learn how Luba is revolutionizing therapy for autistic children—and how her strategies can inspire your own parenting or practice.
What happens when a military mom raises a neurodivergent daughter who thrives in dance despite challenges like autism and dyslexia?
In this episode of The Autism Round Table, host Leah Gross welcomes Amanda and her daughter Leta for a conversation full of laughter, insight, and inspiration.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Summary of the Conversation:
Amanda, a dedicated military mom, shares her experience raising Leta, a vibrant and talented young dancer on the autism spectrum. The conversation dives into topics such as stimming behaviors, the impact of dyslexia on Leta’s dancing, and the ways the military lifestyle has shaped their support system. Amanda encourages parents to celebrate their child’s unique talents while offering grounded advice drawn from her own journey. Leta joins the conversation with humor and honesty, giving listeners a heartfelt glimpse into the life of a neurodivergent teenager.
About The Guest:
Amanda is a military spouse and passionate advocate for her daughter Leta, who is both autistic and dyslexic. Amanda shares practical tips and encouragement from her years navigating military life and supporting Leta’s personal and creative growth. Leta, a gifted dancer, brings her voice to the episode, showing the joy and individuality that defines her journey.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 Amanda’s background and journey into autism advocacy
02:06 – Encouraging Leta’s talent in dance
11:22 – Understanding and managing stimming
14:49 – Advice for parents raising children on the spectrum
27:54 – Navigating autism within a military family
42:02 – How dyslexia affects Leta’s dance experience
55:00 – The healing and supportive role of pets
Ready to feel inspired and better equipped to support the neurodivergent children in your life?
Tune in to the full episode for heartfelt stories, expert advice, and practical encouragement.
What does true support for both parents and children in the autism community look like?
In this episode of The Autism Roundtable, Leah Gross is joined by occupational therapist JoAnna Poyssick, who shares her holistic approach to supporting families.
Key Questions Explored in the Episode:
Summary of the Conversation:
JoAnna Poyssick brings a refreshing and compassionate lens to supporting families navigating autism. She outlines how her Skyrocket Success program combines coaching, education, and community to empower parents. JoAnna emphasizes that parent well-being directly influences a child’s progress and shares actionable advice on sensory processing, executive functioning, and skill-building. Her approach centers on acceptance, empathy, and celebrating strengths, making this a must-listen episode for caregivers and professionals alike.
About the Guest:
JoAnna Poyssick is an experienced occupational therapist who specializes in working with children on the autism spectrum. Through her virtual and in-person coaching programs, she helps parents develop the tools, mindset, and routines they need to support their child’s growth while taking care of their own well-being.
Key Takeaways:
Time Stamps:
00:00 - Joanna’s work with children on the autism spectrum
01:53 – Skyrocket Success: A parenting coaching program
03:21 – The importance of self-care for parents
04:27 – Finding support and building community
09:10 – Acceptance as a foundation for parenting
12:01 – A deeper look at the Skyrocket Success structure
16:42 – The role of occupational therapy in family life
19:41 – Creating healthy sleep routines
23:16 – Supporting children’s social and leisure activities
26:12 – Understanding sensory processing challenges
28:05 – Meeting each child’s unique sensory needs
29:31 – Modeling calm behavior for emotional regulation
30:17 – Helping children manage emotions
32:16 – The importance of gross motor development
35:16 – Encouraging self-care skills in children
38:54 – Fine motor development and executive functioning
46:27 – Addressing parental guilt and fostering acceptance
Links for the Guest:
Connect with JoAnna Poyssick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanna-poyssick-skyrocketsuccess/
Visit JoAnna’s website: https://www.sensationalstudentsot.com/
Call to Action:
Ready to support your child’s growth while taking care of yourself?
Tune in to the full episode for practical strategies and heartfelt insights from JoAnna Poyssick.
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