A candid conversation with Robin Carus, legendary casting director whose career spans theater, film, and television. Robin shares her journey into casting, what drives her, and the gratitude she finds in discovering and nurturing authentic talent.

We explore the groundbreaking New York City Accessibility Fund and its promise to reshape inclusivity across the entertainment industry. Robin discusses why lived experience matters in casting, and how authentic representation of disabled and neurodivergent artists enriches storytelling for everyone.

With warmth and humor, she also reflects on advocating for siblings with developmental disabilities and wraps up with a hilarious Sacha Baron Cohen/Borat story that’s guaranteed to leave you laughing.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Advocating Podcast

00:25 Meet Robin Caras: Casting Director and Advocate

01:36 Robin's Journey into Casting

03:15 The Impact of the NYC Accessibility Fund

07:58 Creating Inclusive Casting Environments

11:38 Authentic Representation in Media

21:27 The Role of Epic Players in Neurodiverse Theater

23:09 Personal Reflections: Growing Up with a Sibling with Disabilities

24:18 A Brother's Journey and Legal Victory

26:18 Advocacy and Quality of Life

27:56 Personal Reflections on Advocacy

29:22 Heartwarming Caretaker Stories

30:39 The Importance of Seeing Beauty in Everyone

31:49 Fun and Lighthearted Questions

34:51 Hilarious Sasha Baron Cohen Encounter

41:22 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

In this episode of the Dadvocating Podcast, the host explores the intersections of disability, neurodivergence, and mental wellness with Dr. Janina Scarlet, a clinical psychologist and creator of superhero therapy. Dr. Scarlet shares her personal journey as a first-generation immigrant from Ukraine, her struggles with radiation poisoning from Chernobyl, and how she overcame bullying by finding solace in X-Men's portrayal of trauma and resilience. The conversation delves into how superhero narratives can aid in understanding and addressing mental health issues, especially in individuals with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Scarlet highlights the power of storytelling in promoting post-traumatic growth and resiliency and provides practical advice for morning mental wellness routines. The episode also touches on the impact of social media on mental health and the benefits of superhero therapy, with Dr. Scarlet emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and community support in the healing process.

00:00 Introduction to the Dad Podcast

00:55 Exploring Disability, Neurodivergence, and Mental Wellness

01:48 Meet Dr. Janina Scarlet: Superhero Therapy

02:42 Dr. Scarlet's Origin Story

06:25 The Power of Narrative in Healing

16:58 The Intersection of Neurodivergence and Mental Wellness

27:44 Generational Trauma and Healing

43:40 Closing Thoughts and Final Words

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This episode explores the challenges and strategies involved in back-to-school transitions for neurodivergent students. Guest Haley Moss, an attorney, author, artist, and advocate diagnosed with autism at age 3 shares her expertise and lived experience to offer valuable insight and guidance. Topics include the excitement and anxiety around school transitions, masking, identity, self-advocacy, and how schools and families can better support neurodivergent students. Haley’s perspective sheds light on what it means to navigate school as a neurodivergent learner and how we can create more inclusive, supportive environments.

00:00 Introduction to the Dad Vocating Podcast

00:41 Meet Haley Moss: Advocate and Author

01:44 Haley's Educational Journey

05:18 Navigating School as a Neurodivergent Student

09:12 The Start of Haley's Advocacy

13:30 Challenges of Middle School

19:56 Mental Health and Neurodiversity

22:39 College Life and Self-Advocacy

28:09 Advice for Academia

29:08 Understanding Law School Grading

29:48 Navigating Autism and Mental Health in Law School

30:34 Challenges with University Health Services

31:20 Disability Resources in Higher Education

32:16 Generational Differences in Mental Health Awareness

35:34 Dating Advice for Neurodivergent Students

38:39 Parental Guidance for Neurodivergent College Students

42:41 The Concept of Neurodiversity

46:45 Making Religious Spaces Inclusive

49:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this debut episode of The Dadvocating Podcast, host Simcha Weinstein sits down with Mrs. Willie Mae Goodman to reflect on more than six decades of advocacy. Her journey began when her daughter Margaret, born with high support disabilities, was placed in the infamous Willowbrook State School. What she witnessed there, neglect, abuse, and injustice ignited a lifetime of action. Together with other parents, launched a landmark legal challenge that forever changed the face of disability rights and inclusion in New York State, and helped lay the foundation for today’s community based services and the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).

Mrs. Goodman was recently honored by OPWDD with the inaugural Willie Mae Goodman Family Advocacy Award for her tireless work on behalf of Margaret and all New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. She is joined in this conversation by fellow advocate José Rivera, whose late brother Louis was also a Willowbrook resident. Together, they share history, heart, and a call to keep family voices at the center of the disability rights movement.