The Autism Dad

• Understanding Non-Speaking Autism and Apraxia (S8E14)

  While my production computer is down, I’m re-releasing this powerful episode that so many parents found helpful the first time around. If you’re raising a non-speaking or minimally speaking child, or if you're trying to better understand apraxia and communication differences in autism—this conversation is for you. I’m joined again by Samantha Fox, M.A., CCC-SLP—an incredible speech-language pathologist and founder of Beyond Speech Therapy Center. Samantha specializes in working with non-speaking autistic individuals and is a certified Spelling to Communicate (S2C) practitioner. We talk openly about: What apraxia really is—and how it’s often misunderstood Why some autistic kids can understand language but still can’t speak The difference between language delays and motor-based speech challenges Why “presume competence” isn’t just a buzzword—it’s essential My son Emmett’s experience being non-speaking and how it shaped my perspective A powerful message from 17-year-old speller Kaden that will absolutely stay with you This conversation will challenge assumptions and give you a new way to view communication struggles. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or educator—you’ll walk away better informed and hopefully more hopeful. 🎧 Listen now anywhere you get your podcasts or at: https://listen.theautismdad.com This episode is sponsored by: 🛏 Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding creates custom, in-home safety beds for kids with autism and other special needs. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com 🎮 Mightier Mightier helps kids build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback video games developed at Harvard Medical and Boston Children’s Hospital. Try it today at mightier.com

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  40:50
• Navigating Puberty With Autistic Kids (w/ Dr. Whitney Casares) (S8E13)

  This episode is being re-released for Autism Awareness Month. In this powerful and important conversation, I’m joined by returning guest Dr. Whitney Casares. She’s not only a Stanford-trained pediatrician and public health expert, but she’s also an autism mom raising two differently wired kids. Together, we tackle a topic many of us try to avoid—puberty. This episode is packed with practical advice, validation, and real talk for parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children. We explore how puberty may present differently, how to support our kids through emotional and physical changes, and how to have open, shame-free conversations about boundaries, hygiene, sex, and self-care. Whether your child is verbal, non-speaking, cognitively delayed, or anywhere in between—this episode is for you. Key Topics Covered: Puberty differences in neurodivergent vs. neurotypical kids Hygiene and body safety tips for autistic tweens and teens How to talk about periods, masturbation, and boundaries without shame Why our kids need honesty—not fear or avoidance Handling sensory issues around puberty-related products Parental self-care in the midst of emotionally hard conversations This conversation was originally uncomfortable for me to have—but I’m so glad I did. Your kids will benefit when you feel more empowered to guide them through this stage of life. Guest Info: Dr. Whitney Casares is a pediatrician, author, public health expert, and autism mom. Learn more at www.modernmommydoc.com This episode is sponsored by: Mightier: Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges. Learn more and try it free for 30 days at ⁠mightier.com/theautismdad⁠. Autism 360 The Autism 360 program helps parents become confident leaders in their child’s care by providing expert-led coaching and support. Learn more at autism360.com Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides inflatable and permanent safety beds for kids with special needs. Their products offer peace of mind and better sleep—for the whole family. They even help navigate insurance. Learn more at safeplacebedding.com Connect with me: Instagram: @theautismdad Blog and resources: https://www.theautismdad.com Support the Podcast: https://listen.theautismdad.com

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  1:13:36
• Understanding Autism in Girls with Dr. Taylor Day (S8E12)

  April is Autism Awareness Month, and this episode with Dr. Tay is one of the most important conversations I’ve had. We dive into how autism shows up differently in girls—and why so many are missed or misdiagnosed. If you’re a parent, educator, or just want to better understand the nuances of autism, this one’s a must-listen. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Taylor Day (aka Dr. Tay), a licensed psychologist who specializes in neuroaffirming care for autistic kids—especially girls. We talk about how autism can look very different in girls compared to boys, why so many girls are misdiagnosed or missed altogether, and what parents can do to make sure their daughters get the support they need. Dr. Tay breaks down the most common signs of autism in girls, how masking can complicate the diagnostic process, and why co-occurring conditions like anxiety often delay a proper diagnosis. This conversation is full of insight and practical advice for parents and caregivers—especially those who feel like something’s going on but can’t quite get answers. What we talk about: Why autism is harder to spot in girls Masking, camouflaging, and missed diagnoses What to look for if you suspect your daughter might be autistic The role of anxiety and other co-occurring conditions How to advocate for your child when doctors don’t listen Getting evaluations and choosing the right provider About Dr. Tay: Dr. Taylor Day is a licensed psychologist and the founder of Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care. She specializes in early diagnosis and support for autistic kids, with a focus on neuroaffirming care for girls who often present differently. She’s also the host of the Evolve with Dr. Tay podcast and creates free educational content for parents on social media. Website: drtaylorday.com Instagram: @the.dr.tay Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (available on all major platforms) About Me: I’m Rob Gorski, host of The Autism Dad Podcast. I’m a single dad to three amazing autistic kids and I’ve been sharing our journey for over 15 years to help support families like mine. Through my podcast, blog, and social media, I aim to educate, empower, and connect with parents raising neurodivergent kids. Website: theautismdad.com This episode is sponsored by Mightier. Mightier is a clinically proven program that helps kids learn emotional regulation through gameplay. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier uses biofeedback and video games to help kids build skills to manage big feelings in the moment. It’s great for kids ages 6 to 14 and especially helpful for those with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or sensory challenges. Learn more and try it free for 30 days at mightier.com/theautismdad. This episode is also sponsored by Safe Place Bedding. Safe Place Bedding makes affordable, portable safety beds for kids with special needs. These beds offer a secure, comfortable sleep space and are a game changer for families dealing with sleep issues or elopement concerns. Safe Place also helps parents navigate insurance so you may not have to pay out of pocket. Visit safeplacebedding.com to learn more and check your insurance coverage.

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  39:03
• Aria’s Kid-Friendly Minecraft Movie Review (S8E11)

  Today’s episode is full of joy and Minecraft magic! Rob is joined by a very special guest, Aria. Aria is Kelly's 8 year old daughter with autism. Fresh off seeing the new Minecraft Movie, Aria shares her thoughts, favorite moments, and tips for parents wondering if it’s a good pick for their kids. They also dive deep into the game itself—breaking down game modes, favorite mobs, plushies, add-ons, and the endless creativity that makes Minecraft such a hit for kids and grownups alike. Whether you're a longtime Minecraft fan or just curious what the hype is about, this lighthearted conversation is guaranteed to make you smile. Aria, you're amazing, and we’re all so proud of you! 🎮 Topics Covered: Aria’s honest review of the Minecraft Movie (spoiler-light) Game modes in Minecraft (survival, creative, hardcore, and more) Minecraft add-ons, plushies, and lava chickens Differences between Java and Bedrock editions Why Minecraft is great for all ages This week’s episode is sponsored by: 🛏 Safe Place Bedding If your child struggles with sleep due to sensory needs or safety concerns, Safe Place Bedding can help. Their customizable, medically necessary bed enclosures offer peace of mind—and they even help families navigate insurance. Learn more about their brand-new permanent model, the Safe Place 300, which now includes monitoring features. 👉 Visit safeplacebedding.com for more info. 🧠 Autism 360 Autism 360 is an all-in-one, parent-driven program built to help families raising autistic kids get expert support in key areas like behavior, communication, sensory needs, and more. It’s flexible, affordable, and guided by professionals who get it—because many of them are parents too. 👉 Learn more at autism360.com — Connect with Rob: 🌐 TheAutismDad.com 📸 https://instagram.com/theautismdad If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to leave a rating, share with a friend, and let Aria know she did a great job!

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  22:53
• Gavin’s Journey to Independence (S8E10)

  In this special Autism Acceptance Month episode, I’m re-sharing an important and personal conversation with my oldest son, Gavin. Gavin is 25 years old, autistic, and immunocompromised. In this episode, we talk about his journey toward independent living and why he’s choosing to move into a group home. Gavin shares his thoughts, hopes, fears, and goals—including launching his own YouTube channel and building a sustainable future for himself. We discuss: What Gavin is looking for in a group home Health and hygiene concerns due to his compromised immune system The emotional challenges of touring potential homes Gavin’s budgeting process and side-hustle plans His passion for gaming and creating a relaxed, inclusive online space This is a real, unfiltered conversation about growing up, letting go, and navigating life with autism. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or self-advocate, I hope this episode helps you feel seen and less alone. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this. Want to support the podcast or be a guest? Visit theautismdad.com for more info, contact links, or to explore sponsorship opportunities. This episode is sponsored by: 🛏️ Safe Place Bedding If your child struggles with sleep, safety, or elopement, Safe Place Bedding offers custom in-home safety beds that can truly make a difference. Their beds are portable, insurable, and now include new monitoring options for added peace of mind. Visit safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more and explore their newest model—the Safe Place 300. 🧦 Parker & Talia Parker & Talia creates tag-free, sensory-friendly essentials that help kids feel comfortable and confident. Founded by a fellow autism mom, their clothes are soft, inclusive, and made with love. Get 10% off your order with code THEAUTISMDAD at parkerandtalia.com.

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