David welcomes Dr. Marina Weiler, a neuroscientist and assistant professor at the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies. They delve into Dr. Weiler's journey from mainstream neuroscience to studying consciousness beyond the brain, touching on topics like non-speaking autism, telepathy, and the cultural differences in understanding spiritual experiences. Dr. Weiler shares her experiences and the challenges she faces while researching controversial subjects, such as the telepathy tapes and non-local communication. The episode emphasizes the importance of presuming competence among non-speaking autistics and explores the transformative impact of out-of-body experiences. Both curiosity and scientific rigor are highlighted as essential elements in investigating these phenomena. The discussion also touches on the potential for future research and the need for more empirical evidence to validate these groundbreaking findings.

Topics

01:05 Meet Dr. Marina Weiler: A Journey from Neuroscience to Consciousness

03:36 Cultural Influences and Personal Experiences

05:00 Challenges and Skepticism in Consciousness Research

11:06 Exploring the Division of Perceptual Studies

18:38 Out-of-Body Experiences and Empathy

20:54 Non-Speaking Autistics and Telepathy

26:08 Unveiling Hidden Talents: Telepathy in Non-Speakers

27:44 Scientific Validation: The Need for Evidence

28:20 The Controversy of Telepathy in Non-Speaking Populations

30:38 Personal Experiences with Non-Speakers

33:21 The Phenomenon of Shared Consciousness

36:48 Collecting Stories: A Call to Action

45:03 Future Research and Studies

47:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

David engages with Denise Marshall, Executive Director of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA), to discuss the essential work of protecting and advancing the rights of students with disabilities. Denise shares her journey from working on behavior support at the Kennedy Krieger Institute to her leadership role at COPAA, which champions equal educational opportunities for all students. The conversation explores the challenges of advocating for disability rights in the current political climate, the importance of inclusion, the need for bipartisan support, and the critical role of organizations like COPAA in providing advocacy and support for families. The episode also delves into the controversies surrounding communication methods for non-speaking students and the systemic bias they face. Finally, Denise emphasizes the importance of continued activism and collective voice in securing and defending the rights and dignity of students with disabilities.

Visit https://www.copaa.org/

Topics

01:07 Guest Introduction: Denise Marshall

02:02 Denise's Journey in Disability Rights Advocacy

07:53 The Mission and Impact of COPA

11:51 Challenges and Advocacy in Special Education

18:41 Concerns About Eroding Protections

31:03 Debating the Evidence Base for Spelling Communication

31:32 Advocacy Efforts and Challenges with ASHA

32:24 The Importance of Communication Rights

34:40 State Legislation and Communication Rights

38:23 Collaboration and Advocacy Strategies

40:10 Fact or Fiction: Disability Rights and Partisanship

42:02 Tip of the Week: Advocacy and Communication

46:01 COPAA's Agenda and Future Goals

51:54 Concluding Thoughts on Advocacy and Inclusion

David welcomes Libby Ingram, a dedicated parent and speech therapist profoundly impacted by her experience raising her non-speaking autistic son, John Paul. The podcast delves into the journey of parenting and advocating for children on the autism spectrum, exploring the challenges and breakthroughs associated with innovative communication methods like spelling. Libby shares her personal story, the foundational moments of understanding full-body apraxia, and the unexpected connections and community building that resulted from her relentless advocacy. The episode also highlights the importance of unconditional love, empathy, and the tight-knit community formed through events like Presume Comp Fest, fostering growth and support for non-speakers and their families.

Topics

00:36 Meet Today's Guest: Libby Ingram

02:01 Libby's Journey with Her Son John Paul

05:18 The Telepathy Tapes and John Paul's Abilities

10:08 Challenges and Triumphs in Communication

13:57 The Role of Speech Therapy and Spelling

26:37 The Controversy Around Spelling and ABA

34:38 Discovering Spelling and Its Impact

39:31 Overcoming Educational Barriers

41:56 The Struggles and Triumphs of Spelling

46:00 The Importance of Communication

50:28 Balancing Family Dynamics

56:58 Presume Comp Fest: A Community Gathering

01:12:35 Reflections on Love and Loss

01:15:40 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

David is joined by Betsy Hicks Russ—mother, advocate, and founder of Autism Odyssey. They discuss the groundbreaking world of non-speaking autism, focusing on intuition, energy communication, and the 'woo-woo' side of autism interaction. Betsy shares her journey from early autism support to founding Autism Odyssey, highlighting diet as a crucial element in managing autism. Additionally, they delve into the potential of non-local communication and the significant impacts of presuming competence in non-speaking individuals. The conversation also touches on their experiences at the Presume Comp Fest, a unique gathering aiming to create unity within the autism community. Tune in for insights, anecdotes, and practical tips for navigating autism as a lifelong journey.

Topics

01:10 Opening the Door to Intuition and Connection

01:26 Betsy Hicks Russ: A Journey Through Autism Advocacy

03:00 The Evolution of Autism Support

06:31 The Gut-Brain Connection and Picky Eating

11:17 The Birth of Autism Odyssey

13:45 Discovering Spelling as Communication

22:22 Exploring Telepathy and Non-Local Communication

28:35 A Surprising Revelation

29:03 Addressing Skepticism and Manipulation

29:59 The Importance of Community and Sharing Experiences

30:24 Planning and Organizing Events

33:37 The Power of Unity and Love

36:27 The Birth of Presume Comp Fest

47:38 Autism Tip of the Week

49:46 Parent Confessions

54:37 Autism Fact or Fiction

57:16 Final Thoughts and Advice for Parents

Topics

01:48 Opening Up About Non-Speaking Children

02:29 Guest Introduction: Betsy Hicks Russ

04:00 Betsy's Journey with Autism

07:20 The Importance of Diet in Autism

12:01 The Creation of Autism Odyssey

14:27 Discovering Spelling Communication

22:40 Exploring Telepathy and Non-Local Communication

28:32 A Surprising Revelation

29:05 Addressing Skepticism and Manipulation

29:59 The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences

32:52 The Birth of Presume Comp Fest

34:41 Unity and the Power of Shared Goals

36:05 The Role of Non-Local Communication

40:40 Planning for the Future

47:05 Autism Tip of the Week

49:12 Parent Confessions

53:52 Autism Fact or Fiction

56:29 Final Thoughts and Advice for Parents

Stone's Autism Advocacy Adventure

David shares a heartfelt recount of his two-week advocacy journey with his non-speaking son Stone. Starting in Atlanta and ending in New York City, David and Stone met with congressional leaders, gave inspiring presentations to professional groups, and connected with non-speaking families at the Presume Competence Fest. The episode highlights their efforts to promote communication rights for non-speakers and the power of direct advocacy. David is joined by fellow podcaster David Yas to reflect on the memorable moments and the impact of their experiences.

Topics

00:00 Starting the Day of Advocacy

01:02 Welcome to the Lighter Side of the Spectrum

01:43 A Special Journey with Stone

03:38 Traveling with Autism

06:11 TSA Cares and Sunflower Program

09:28 Speaking Engagement in Atlanta

15:06 Presume Competence Fest

15:56 Connecting with the Non-Speaking Community

21:37 Fun in Atlanta

22:14 Advocacy on Capitol Hill

24:10 Reflecting on the Journey to Congress

24:37 Meeting with Congresswoman Schreyer

26:26 Highlighting the Spelling Curriculum

27:22 Engaging with Speech Language Pathologists

28:31 Meeting with Senator Cantwell's Office

29:59 Presentation at Berson PR and Communications

30:45 Stone's Bold Statement

34:01 Visiting the Statue of Liberty

34:20 Navigating New York City

36:55 The 9/11 Memorial Visit

37:21 Managing Emotions and Behaviors

42:35 Future Plans and Goals

44:36 Listener Feedback and Engagement

David shares a heartfelt recount of his two-week advocacy journey with his non-speaking son Stone. Starting in Atlanta and ending in New York City, David and Stone met with congressional leaders, gave inspiring presentations to professional groups, and connected with non-speaking families at the Presume Competence Fest. The episode highlights their efforts to promote communication rights for non-speakers and the power of direct advocacy. David is joined by fellow podcaster David Yas to reflect on the memorable moments and the impact of their experiences.

Topics

00:00 Starting the Day of Advocacy

01:02 Welcome to the Lighter Side of the Spectrum

01:43 A Special Journey with Stone

03:38 Traveling with Autism

06:11 TSA Cares and Sunflower Program

09:28 Speaking Engagement in Atlanta

15:06 Presume Competence Fest

15:56 Connecting with the Non-Speaking Community

21:37 Fun in Atlanta

22:14 Advocacy on Capitol Hill

24:10 Reflecting on the Journey to Congress

24:37 Meeting with Congresswoman Schreyer

26:26 Highlighting the Spelling Curriculum

27:22 Engaging with Speech Language Pathologists

28:31 Meeting with Senator Cantwell's Office

29:59 Presentation at Berson PR and Communications

30:45 Stone's Bold Statement

34:01 Visiting the Statue of Liberty

34:20 Navigating New York City

36:55 The 9/11 Memorial Visit

37:21 Managing Emotions and Behaviors

42:35 Future Plans and Goals

44:36 Listener Feedback and Engagement

David interviews guest Randy Brandhagen, who shares his family's experience raising three children, including a son diagnosed with autism. The conversation addresses the desperate search for answers, the influences of figures like Andrew Wakefield, and the role of critical thinking in navigating misinformation. Randy also recounts the life-changing moment his son Kade began communicating through the Spelling to Communicate method, profoundly impacting their family's journey. The episode wraps up with reflections on the uniqueness of non-speaking individuals and the detrimental impact of anti-vaccine rhetoric.

Topics

00:43 Discussing Autism Diagnosis

02:00 Randy's Family Background

03:08 Kade's Early Development and Diagnosis

06:41 Exploring Autism Treatments and Theories

19:03 Questioning Established Beliefs

22:51 Kade's Communication and Advocacy

28:23 Challenges and Misconceptions about Vaccines

30:34 Filling the Information Gap

30:48 The Influence of RFK Jr.

31:19 Understanding and Empathy

32:13 The Darker Side of the Spectrum

32:41 A Shift in Perspective

34:06 The Impact of Wakefield and Asha

35:55 Kade's Journey with Spelling

37:47 Breakthroughs and Challenges

40:41 The Role of Sensory Issues

47:38 Misinformation and Opportunism

50:37 The Complexity of Autism

58:04 The Importance of Nuance

01:01:42 Concluding Thoughts

David talks with Japhet Stevens, a software developer and father, who created an AI-powered app called Scholarship to help his minimally speaking son, Indigo, with learning and communication through personalized spelling lessons. Japhet discusses the inspiration behind the app, their journey through various spelling methodologies, and how Indigo’s interests and feedback shaped this innovative tool. The episode also touches on the broader implications and potential of AI in education, the importance of giving children agency in their learning, and the ongoing debate around the efficacy of spelling methodologies. The podcast concludes with tips for parents and a glimpse into the future evolution of the Scholarship app.

Topics

00:46 Meet Today's Guest: Japhet Stevens

02:13 Japhet's Journey to Creating Scholarship

03:52 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Spelling Lessons

07:00 Homeschooling and Alternative Education

11:15 Developing the Scholarship App

23:27 Live Demo of the Scholarship App

33:41 Creating Custom Lessons with AI

34:18 Engaging Students with Personalized Content

37:35 Subscription Model and App Features

39:25 Future Vision and Development Plans

41:50 Community Support and Feedback

45:46 Weekly Segment: Tip of the Week

49:53 Debunking Myths: Does Spelling Work?

56:03 Parent Confessions: Vulnerability and Hope

01:03:37 Closing Remarks and Future Plans

David explores the nuanced world of advocacy and entitlement with guest Shannon Striner. Shannon, a devoted mother and blogger, shares her journey raising her daughter Sienna, who has Down Syndrome. They discuss the challenges of finding the right educational environment, the importance of advocating without slipping into entitlement, and the powerful impact of inclusion and innovation in creating better outcomes. Shannon's practical tips and poignant reflections offer inspiration and guidance for families navigating similar paths.

More at https://thislifewegot.com/

Topics

00:48 Exploring Advocacy vs. Entitlement

01:22 Meet Shannon Striner: A Fierce Advocate

02:37 Navigating the School System

06:39 Challenges in Private vs. Public Schools

11:35 Fighting for Inclusive Education

23:47 The Thin Line Between Advocacy and Entitlement

32:42 Navigating Financial Assistance for Families

33:05 The Emotional Struggles of Acceptance

33:59 The Importance of Utilizing Available Resources

36:29 Healthcare Costs and Insurance Limitations

38:00 Advocating for Medicaid and State Programs

38:43 Balancing Work and Caregiving

39:50 Learning and Implementing New Communication Strategies

41:31 The Power of Advocacy and Community Support

45:06 Tip of the Week: Daily Communication Logs

48:48 Fact or Fiction: Debunking Myths About Down Syndrome

52:35 Parent Confessions: Resentment and Gratitude

57:45 The Intersection of Politics and Disability Advocacy

01:02:43 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode David explores a groundbreaking approach to autism therapy led by two remarkable women, Marcy Nirschel (joined by husband Marty) and Allison Pianka. Marcy, a special education teacher and mother of a non-verbal autistic son, and Allison, a corporate strategist and mother of a child with special needs, share their personal journeys and professional expertise in bringing DIR Floortime and spelling-based communication services to the forefront of autism support in Connecticut. Through their organization, myPath, they are building a movement centered on confidence, connection, and care for autistic children and their families.

Learn more at https://www.findmypath.us/

Topics

01:08 Meet Marcy and Her Journey with Michael

02:38 Challenges and Struggles

06:23 Breakthroughs and Discoveries

13:54 Allison's Story and Joining MyPath

17:16 The Power of DIR Therapy

David chats with Lori Rogers, a parent advocate and co-founder of Positive Activity. Lori shares the profound journey of helping her son Craig, a brilliant non-speaker on the autism spectrum, to communicate through Spelling to Communicate (S2C). Despite early hardships, Lori’s story is one of advocacy, fundraising, and her unwavering belief in Craig’s potential. Discover how S2C transformed their lives and opened up new possibilities, and how Lori is now committed to spreading awareness and helping other families connect and communicate. The episode also touches on the importance of maintaining calm as a parent, the necessity of positive reframing, and the creation of supportive infrastructures for neurodivergent individuals.

More on Lori and Positive Activity: https://www.positiveactivity.net/

Topics

00:45 Meet Lori Rogers: A Journey of Advocacy

03:06 Early Challenges and Breakthroughs

05:38 Building a Supportive Community

08:31 Discovering Spelling to Communicate

17:39 The Power of Motor Planning

31:00 Discovering 'Underestimated' and Initial Skepticism

31:39 A Life-Changing Connection and New Challenges

32:25 The Speller Center Experience

33:34 Spreading the Word and Overcoming Doubts

34:29 Craig's Journey and Achievements

37:09 Advocacy and Public Speaking

39:09 Navigating Daily Challenges and Staying Positive

42:38 The Importance of Parental Support and Communication

49:40 Future Goals and Final Thoughts