Uniquely Human: The Podcast
Uniquely Human: the Podcast expands the conversation on autism and neurodiversity by amplifying the voices of autistic and neurodivergent individuals and thought leaders in providing insightful, cutting-edge and practical information about the autistic and neurodivergent experience. Hosted by Barry Prizant and Dave Finch.
Episodes
Autism Outdoors Utah: An Innovative Nature-based Family Support Program with Damon and Tarah Bryan
Episode 164Autism Outdoors Utah:An Innovative Nature-based Family Support Programwith Damon and Tarah BryanDamon and Tarah Bryan, founders of Utah Autism Outdoors, discuss how they created their nature-based program for autistic individuals and their families after their son's autism diagnosis. They discuss how their organization started with simple parent support groups an
ALL ABOUT NONSPEAKERS: REFLECTIONS ON AUTISM SPECTRUM NEWS ISSUE WITH AMY LAURENT AND JEN LEPAPE
Episode 163ALL ABOUT NONSPEAKERS: REFLECTIONS ON AUTISM SPECTRUM NEWS ISSUE WITH AMY LAURENT AND JEN LEPAPEThe discussion focused on the recent issue of Autism Spectrum News dedicated to non-speaking individuals. Topics in the issue included common misunderstandings about supporting non-speakers, including the concept of presuming competence, the role of neuromotor issues, and c
Two Dads Who Connected with Uniquely Human Interview Barry
EPISODE 162TWO DADS WHO CONNECTED WITH UNIQUELY HUMAN INTERVIEW BARRY. WITH BRAD BROYLES AND NATHAN PALMER, FROM THE POLARIS CONNECTIONThis episode is a replay of The Polaris Connection, an autism parenting podcast hosted by Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer. In this episode, they interview Barry with specific attention given to how Uniquely Human has had a positive impact in the way th
Being “Pathologically Genuine”: with Dr. Jim Coleman
EPISODE 161BEING “PATHOLOGICALLY GENUINE”: A DISCUSSION WITH DR. JIM COLEMANJim Coleman, a semi-retired biology professor has had an amazing journey. He discusses his late diagnosis as an autistic person and his journey from feeling like “a banana slug transported into the Mojave Desert” to embracing his neurodiversity. He shared his teaching philosophy of helping every student reach thei
On Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Relationships, with Dr. Cindy Ariel.
On Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Relationships: A Discussion with Dr. Cindy ArielDr. Cindy Ariel is a psychologist specializing in neurodivergent and neurodivergent relationships, and in her discussion with Barry and Dave, she shares insights about the specific challenges and unique qualities of such relationships. Cindy emphasizes that successful relationships require both partner
Sleep Disturbances in Autism and Neurodivergent Conditions, with Dr. Beth Malow
Sleep Disturbances in Autism and Neurodivergent Conditions: A Discussion with Dr. Beth Malow, MD, Neurologist and Sleep Disorder Expert Dr. Malow, discusses how sleep problems affect approximately 80% of individuals on the autism spectrum and family members, emphasizing that improving sleep can positively impact every aspect of an autistic person’s life and the life of the family. Sh
Nature and the Neurodivergent Experience, with Becca Lory Hector
Becca Lory Hector, an autistic self-advocate, has the lived experience of moving through different environments that afford different access to nature, and natural activities. She, Barry, and Dave discuss the benefits of immersion in nature and nature activities and contrast those benefits with the challenges of limited access. They also discuss the importance of awareness and modifying l
Culturally Responsive Services for Neurodivergent Children, with Jordyn Montique
Jordyn Montique’s personal and professional experiences created a passion for addressing cultural responsiveness in serving marginalized children with disabilities, and their families. Jordan, Barry and Dave discuss how essential it is to be in culturally, responsive, and for professionals to be aware of their own cultural biases in developing trusting relationships with children and
Hans Christian Andersen: His Neurodivergent Journey as Shared by Autistic Children's Author, Sandra Nickel
EPISODE 156HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN: HIS NEURODIVERGENT JOURNEY, AS SHARED BY AUTISTIC CHILDREN’S AUTHOR, SANDRA NICKELIt is now widely accepted that Hans Christian Anderson, renowned Danish author of children’s books, was autistic. Sandra Nickel, an award-winning and autistic children’s author brings Andersen’s story to life in a beautiful book, “The Real Ugly Duckling”. Sandra,
Crucial Issues and Future Directions in Autism and Neurodiversity, with SJ Childs
EPISODE 155CRUCIAL ISSUES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS IN AUTISM AND NEURODIVERSITY:A DISCUSSION WITH AUTISTIC PARENT-PROFESSIONAL SARA BRADFORD (AKA SJ CHILDS)Sarah Bradford (aka SJ Childs) is a parent professional, who has a wide range of contact with the autistic and neurodivergent community through her more than 600 interviews in her podcast and annual summits. Barry and Dave discuss a
Part 3 of 3 Series Insights from the Lived Experience of an Autistic Gestalt Processor - with Dr. Jaime Hoerricks
Barry and Jess Texeira have a discussion with Dr. Jaime Hoerricks, a special education teacher and author who shared her experiences as an autistic gestalt processor. Jamie explained how her holistic, relationship-based approach to teaching has helped improve outcomes for her students, particularly those who process language and information in a gestalt manner. She emphasized the imp
Part 2 of 3 Series - Assisted Communication with Non-speakers What the Naysayers Get Wrong and The Damage They Cause, with David Kaufer
Barry and his guest David Kaufer engage in a “no holds barred” critique of the small group of naysayers who have challenged the rights of non-and minimally, speaking people to have access to their preferred and most effective modes of communication. David shares his knowledge from two perspectives, a dad whose teenage son has experienced success with assisted communication,
The Application and Misapplication of Evidence-based Practice: Part 1 of 3 Episodes on Non-Speakers and Gestalt Language Processing
The Application and Misapplication of Evidence-based Practice: Part 1 of 3 Episodes on Non-Speakers and Gestalt Language ProcessingBarry is joined by Jess Teixeira, certified speech- language pathologist and a member of the Uniquely Human Podcast in defining and discussing the concept and practice of evidence-based practice (EBP). In particular, the discussion focuses on th
Neurodivergence Across Generations: with Daughter and Mom, Rebecca Rosenzweig and Dr. Karen Carson
Barry and Dave discuss neurodivergence across generations in a family, with Rebecca Rosenzweig and her mother Dr. Karen Carson exploring how neurodivergent traits have been present in both maternal and paternal lines, with Karen sharing her late-in-life diagnosis of autism and ADHD, while Rebecca discussed her diagnosis and the challenges of sensory processing differen
A Brazilian Autistic Policeman and Neurodiversity Advocate, with Saulo Barbosa
In this episode, I have a discussion with Saulo Barbosa, a 43-year-old Brazilian autistic police officer, to discuss his experiences and insights about neurodivergence in law enforcement in his home country of Brazil. Saulo shared how my book, “Uniquely Human” inspired him to transform his approach to policing and develop training programs that focus on understanding and supporting n
Uniquely Human: The Podcast: A Fun and Comprehensive Review of 2025 Episodes with Barry and Dave
Dave and Barry reflect on the themes and highlights from Uniquely Human: The Podcast in 2025, with their typical insight and good humor. They emphasized themes of collaboration and diversity among their guests. They address specific topics including the importance of early developmental support for neurodivergent children, educational inclusion, and cultural persp
Grow or fold: The Journey of a Dad and His Autistic Son with High Support Needs . With Matt Ross
Matt Ross is a professional who has experienced success as an entrepreneur in different businesses, especially regarding music education. When his son was diagnosed with autism and high support needs, including co-occurring medical conditions, his life and that of his family changed dramatically. Barry and Dave and Matt discuss the decisions he made and the path he decided to take to
Understanding Highly Sensitive People (or Empaths), with Dr. Judith Orloff
An area of great interest is understanding the experience of highly sensitive people, also known as empaths. There are many overlapping characteristics of highly sensitive people with individuals who have neurodivergent profiles (with or without formal diagnoses). Dr. Judith Orloff is a recognized expert in this area and Barry, Dave and Judith discuss the best ways to understand
An Innovative Support Program for Neurodivergent College Students, with Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin and Vanessa Harwood
This episode of the Uniquely Human: The Podcast features Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin and Vanessa Harwood discussing innovative supports for neurodivergent college students, highlighting the START program at the University of Rhode Island. The conversation explores common challenges neurodivergent students face upon entering college, the specific support needs, and how these
Connecting with Young Children through Sensoriaffective Integration: A Discussion with Dr. Carrie Alvarado
As an occupational therapist with expertise in child development, Dr. Carrie Alvarado has the unique ability to discuss interrelationships between sensory processing and the development of trustworthy connections with young children. Carrie, Barry and Dave explore the implications of “sensoriaffective” integration in supporting parents of young neurodivergent children.Learn more
Mentoring for Autistic and Neurodivergent Individuals, with David Rivera
David Rivera has experienced the need for, and benefits of mentoring in his own life, and has applied his lived experiences to setting up a non-profit for mentoring others. Barry and Dave discuss the various benefits of mentoring with David, and specifically, “Mentoring Autistic Minds”, the non-profit he has created that welcomes autistic and otherwise neurodivergent individuals to b
The Journey of an Autistic Librarian, with Kate Reynolds
Kate Reynolds , also known as the Lavender Librarian, is the founder and director of Storytime Solidarity. Based in Ontario, Canada, Kate has been working in public libraries since 2010. She is also a sought after international keynote speaker, trained opera singer, patient advocate, writer, and content creator with a large social media following. Kate’s international advocacy h
An Autistic Mother reflects on Mothering and Writing, with Julie Green
Julie Green is a professional writer, a mother, and is a late diagnosed autistic women. She, Dave, and Barry discuss what led to her late diagnosis, and the insights she has as an autistic person in raising her now teenage autistic son. Julie has also published professionally on parenting issues and discusses the process of writing a memoir that focuses on motherhood and autism, whil
Choosing a Developmental and Relationship Play-based Approach over ABA, with Daria Brown
As a parent, Daria Brown had some difficult decisions to make about choosing the right path for her young autistic child and her family. She chose a developmental relationship- based approach as it resonated with her as the best fit for her child. That choice led to a professional career in supporting parents, and also to her own late diagnosis as an autistic person. Barry and D
Educational Practices for Neurodivergent Students: We Can Do So Much Better - with Dr. Shelley Moore
Barry and Dave engage in a lively and wide-ranging discussion with educational specialist, Dr. Shelley Moore, internationally known for her progressive and value-based approach for educating neurodivergent students, and indeed, all students. The focus of the discussion is on changes that are needed to help educational systems to be neuro-affirming, inclusive, strength-based, and resp
What It Means to Be 2E and Nurturing Potential for 2E Individuals with Sam Young, M.Ed.
Sam Young is a neurodivergent professional educator who has established Young Scholars Academy, an online community for 2E students and individuals who are exceptionally gifted and exceptionally challenged. Sam, Dave and Barry have a lively discussion on topics ranging from different learning styles, to limitations of public education for 2E students, to the highest priorities and st
The Development of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center, with Rachelle Vartanian.
EPISODE 138The Development of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center – An Innovative Neuro-Affirming Community, with Rachelle Vartanian.Rachelle Vartanian is the Founder and President of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center, a community that supports neurodivergent individuals and their families in many ways. She began her journey as a special education teacher, and then
Podcast Interview with Barry on his Career: with Tara Phillips, Founder of Autism Little Learners
Tara Phillips, a speech-language pathologist and Founder of Autism Little Learners, interviewed Barry as a prelude to Barry’s keynote address on her podcast for the Preschool Autism Summit, with more than 40,000 professionals, parents, and autistic individuals registered. As Barry was so impressed by this interview, and given that he often receives requests for more specifi
In Honor of Steve Silberman: Reflections on the Impact of Neurotribes in Steve’s Own Voice
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the publication of Neurotribes, Barry and Dave reflect back on their friendship with Steve Silberman, who passed last year, by revisiting and discussing portions of their podcast interview with Steve in the Fall of 2021, the third episode of Uniquely Human: The Podcast. Filled with humor and reflections, our goal is to express grati
Spin the Spectrum: An Innovative Neuro-affirming DJ Program for Autistic and Neurodivergent Individuals
Spin the Spectrum is an innovative, strength-based program music and DJ program for autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Developed by speech language pathologist Courtney Willis, in collaboration with Jay Clipp, a renowned DJ, and Jah born, a Grammy award-winning producer, opportunities are provided for autistic and neurodivergent individuals to engage in music pro
Can Hospitals and Medical Settings be Neuro-Affirming? - With Wendy Ross, MD
As a developmental pediatrician, Dr. Wendy Ross serves patients who are autistic and neurodivergent and their families, but her work goes well beyond direct clinical care. She believes in having an impact on community understanding, support and inclusion for all people with neurodevelopmental differences. Barry, Dave and Wendy discuss many of her initiatives in the communit
Developmental Relationship-Based Interventions, with Drs. Josh Feder and Andrea Davis
Developmental relationship-based interventions have been around for many years, but have not received the level of attention that intervention approaches based on applied behavior analysis have received. Drs. Josh Feder and Andrea Davis, along with a number of colleagues, including Barry, are currently involved in collaborative efforts to bring greater awareness and funding
Helping Parents Navigate Educational Systems, with Dr. Destiny Huff
As a mental health educational professional advocate, and as a black autistic mother of neurodivergent children, Dr. Destiny Huff brings her extensive knowledge of the law, her in depth, understanding of educational systems, and on the ground experience to her work. Destiny, Barry and Dave discuss the challenges that all parents face, but especially parents of color, in advocati
From Curing to Understanding and Support: The Journey of a Mother and Therapist. With Janeen Herskovitz.
Janeen Herskovitz has worn two hats over two decades, as a mother of an adult son and a daughter who are neurodivergent, and as a therapist and former special educator who supports families, parents and neurodivergent individuals. Initially, she took the path of attempting to cure her son and questioned if vaccinations caused her son’s autism, but then evolved into following a differ
Neurodiversity and Technology: Neuroscience-Led Strategies for Parents, with Bea Moise.
As a board certified cognitive specialist, author Bea Moise’s work with families and neurodivergent individuals is personally informed through her own lived experiences. Her newest book, Neurodiversity and Technology, presents clear strategies to support neurodivergent children with healthy technology use. In this high-energy discussion with Bea, we talk about neurodevelopmet, t
An Autistic Journalist in Washington, with Eric Garcia
Eric Garcia is one of the very few autistic and neurodivergent journalists on the national scene, based in Washington, DC and covering congress and the Trump administration. Barry, Dave and Eric discuss his role as an autistic journalist, and his coverage of Washington, DC politics, and current stories that impact the autistic and neurodivergent community.Learn more on our websi
Supporting Students in a Respectful and Collaborative Manner, with Dr. Ross Greene
As a clinical psychologist, Dr. Ross Greene believes that many approaches that are used with students with challenging or concerning behaviors have taken the wrong approach to helping students learn and develop trust in their learning environments and others. As the founder of the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions Model, his goal is to change disciplinary practices to p
The Uniquely Human Partnership - Why Does It Work?: A Cool and Fun Discussion with Barry and Dave
As they have entered their fourth year as partners in Uniquely Human: The Podcast, Barry and Dave are still astounded by its success and how much our wonderful and loyal audience keep asking for more. But one perplexing question has remained unanswered, why does it work? Barry and Dave reflect on this issue, and believe the answer can be found, in part, by applying a n
Unmasking and Living Authentically, with Dr. Devon Price
As a trans autistic man, and a social psychology professor, Dr. Devon Price is intimately familiar with issues of masking, and the impact that masking may have on the social and emotional well-being of individuals. In this episode, Devon, Dave and Barry delve deeply into these issues and discusses skills that Devon believes are critical for helping neurodivergent individuals unm
On Presuming Competence and Interdependence, with Gyasi Burks-Abbott
On ENERGY, A Framework for Supporting Emotional and Physiological Regulation, with Dr. Amy Laurent and Dr. Jacquelyn Fede
Indigenous Perspectives on Autism and Neurodiversity, with Grant Bruno and Otilia Johnson
Indigenous cultures often have a very different view of raising children who receive diagnoses of autism or other neurodivergent conditions. These differences impact how families and children are supported, but also may result in difficulties when families need to interface with non-indigenous cultural professionals and systems to acquire services that may be helpful. Barry and Dave discu
The Peers Program and Bullying Prevention, with Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson
Two of the major priorities that are now being addressed in the autism and neurodivergent communities are the development of friendships and social relationships, and how to address bullying. Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson, Clinical Professor at UCLA, has focused on both of these issues over the past two decades, from a research as well as a programming perspective. She describes the PEERS progra
Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Hospital Settings, with Dr. Felix Kreier
Neurodivergent children and their caregivers face unique challenges when a child needs to be brought into hospitals or similar medical settings. Unfortunately, many physicians working in emergency medicine and in hospital settings have little training in supporting children and families under the circumstances. Barry and Dave discuss these issues with Dr. Felix Kreier, an autistic physici
Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Autistic and Neurodivergent Children with Rachel Madel
One of the most exciting areas of innovation over the past few decades for children and adults with communication challenges and their families is augmentative and alternative communication options. Barry and Dave discuss a wide range of issues related to AAC with Rachel Madel, a speech-language pathologist who focuses on AAC in her LA – based practice serving children and adult clients,
Autism and Polyvagal theory, with Sean Inderbitzen
Polyvagal theory has emerged over the past few decades as an important construct in psychology and neurophysiology to help explain human reactions, especially when a person is under stress. It addresses a deeper, neurological basis to for understanding fight, flight and freeze responses, that have been misunderstood for years when observed in neurodivergent individuals. Polyvagal theory a
Why Emotional Regulation Might Mean Everything, with Terri Duncan, CCC-SLP
Emotional regulation is being embraced by parents, neurodivergent individuals educators and therapists as an important concept underlying respectful and developmentally informed practices for supporting autistic and neurodivergent individuals. As founder and Director of Children's Autism Services of Edmonton (Alberta, Canada), Terri Duncan, CCC-SLP has prioritized emotional regulation as
Compassionate Child - and Family-centered Dental Support, with Dr. Rose-Marie Daly
Neurodivergent children and their caregivers face a unique set of challenges in ensuring that they have access to appropriate services supporting dental and oral health. Unfortunately, due to some of these challenges, many children grow up without appropriate supports, and experience long-term negative physical and mental health repercussions. Barry and Dave do a deep dive into these issu
Lessons Learned from Growing Up Autistic: Advice and Insights from Becca Lory Hector
As a deeply reflective, and insightful individual, Becca Lory Hector has constructed a life and career of sharing what she has learned about growing up autistic, without a diagnosis until adulthood. With her engaging new autobiographical work, she once again demonstrates that lived experience is the best teacher, especially when shared generously with others who benefit from her wisdom. B
Establishing the Authenticity of Supported Communication for Non-Speakers, with Vikram Jaswal, Ph.D.
One of the most important cutting-edge discoveries for autistic and neurodivergent individuals is that non-speakers, many of them previously thought to be intellectually disabled and non-communicative, are now able to demonstrate their knowledge and share their experiences through supported communication. With their guest, psychology professor Dr. Vikram Jaswal, Barry and Dave discuss rec
Gestalt language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition, with Marge Blanc and Alex Zachos
Gestalt language Processing and Natural Language Acquisition: A Discussion with Marge Blanc, CCC-SLP, and Alex Zachos, CCC-SLP Gestalt language processing and natural language acquisition are topics that have received a great deal of attention in recent years, grounded in research that goes back to the 1970s. These concepts have helped to explain and describe a process, often observed in
Strategies for Successful Transitions Back to School, with Dave and Barry
Strategies for Successful Transitions Back to School for Parents and Professionals a conversation with Dave and Barry Supporting successful transitions back to school is critical for maximizing success for the whole school year. Join us as we throw back to episode 31st, where Dave and Barry shared a lively discussion about challenges and creative strategies to help children of all ages to
Supporting Communication and Regulation with Declarative Language, with Linda Murphy
A great deal of attention is given to different treatment approaches for supporting communication and relationships with children with social learning differences. However, how we actually speak to children in therapeutic and every day interactions, is given relatively less attention. Through her publications and presentations, Linda Murphy has devoted much of her recent work to supportin
On Neuro-affirming Care and PDA with Dr. Taylor Day
Neuro-affirming care and the clinical profile of PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) are two critical issues that have risen to forefront of autism services and supports for individuals and families. In this lively and deeply informative discussion, Dr. Taylor Day speaks with Barry and Dave about how she understands and addresses these important areas in her clinical practice. Learn more
Physical Wellness for Autistic Children and Adults: with Belden Long and Kara Wilkinson
A recognized significant challenge for autistic and neurodivergent families and individuals and families is maintaining a lifestyle that supports physical health and well-being. Belden Long and Kara Wilkinson, as professionals and with expertise in addressing physical health, report on findings of their research as well as their personal experience in supporting autistic individuals and f
Executive Function and Other Crucial Developmental Issues in Childhood and the Teen years: with Ellen Galinsky
Ellen Galinsky is a respected and renowned expert in child development, and in this episode, she discusses crucial issues she has researched and worked on directly in supporting healthy cognitive, social and emotional development in children and teens. Barry and Dave discuss a range of developmental issues with Ellen and their relevance in understanding and supporting autistic and neurod
Creating Connections Through Interactive Music, with Bob Bloom
Creating Connection in Drumming and Rhythm-based Activities: A Discussion with "Master Teaching Artist" Bob Bloom. As a “Master Teaching Artist”, Bob Bloom uses drumming, rhythm and singing to create fun and engaging experiences for children and their families, and adults. Specifically, he provides programs to help all children, neurotypical and neurodivergent, become connected to other
Supporting Siblings of Children and Family Members with Disabilities: with Emily Holl
Siblings of children and family members with autism and other conditions live and grow up in a unique space in their relationships within the family. Their lived experience may present challenges, as well as unique opportunities for growth in supporting their autistic or neurodivergent sibling. Barry and Dave engage in a wide-ranging discussion with Emily Holl, who is both a sibling and a
About "Ezra": with Director Tony Goldwyn, Writer Tony Spiridakis and Casting Consultant, Elaine Hall
Ezra is a major motion picture that tells the story of a family, across generations, that has a deep love for a young autistic boy. The film authentically conveys the challenges that a family faces when confronted with societal expectations and insensitive professionals who has little understanding or respect for a child that sees the world through a different lens. It also beautifully po
De-pathologizing Series EP 4 – Autism: A Blessing?? A Tragedy?? with Barry and Dave
The history of autism is replete with diametrically opposed representations of the autistic experience as either a blessing, or a tragedy. These varying beliefs may be held by professionals, family members, and even autistic individuals themselves. Of course, such extreme views do not accurately portray the complexities involved, which often fall somewhere between these two extreme repres
Thinking Person's Guide to Autism, with Shannon Rosa and Carol Ann Greenburg
Shannon Rosa and Carol Ann Greenburg are parent-professionals and partners in developing and sharing their on-line resource, A Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism, one of the very first resources to provide valuable information to the autistic and neurodivergent communities. In their own words, the mission of TPGA is to be a a one-stop source for carefully curated, evidence-based, neurodiv
Understanding Autism, with Scott Steindorff
Episode 103 • Understanding Autism: A Discussion with Autistic Film Producer and Director, Scott Steindorff Scott Steindorff, an accomplished autistic film producer and director travelled the world to make his new film, “Understanding Autism“. Barry and Dave discuss Scott’s personal experiences leading to his motivation and goals in creating this feature length documentary. Visit the E
Neurodivergence Following Brain Surgery: A Discussion with Jacki Edry
Episode 102 - Insights into Neurodivergence Following Brain Surgery: A Discussion with Jacki Edry, Autism Advocate, Parent and Cancer Survivor. Jacki Edry’s personal journey as a brain surgery survivor and parent of autistic and neurodivergent children provides unique insight into the neurodivergent experience. Additionally, her courage and persistence during her ongoing process of recov
Progress for Nonspeakers: A 3 Year Follow-up with Elizabeth Vosseller and Ian Nordling
One of the least understood, and most marginalized groups of autistic people are those who are non-speaking, or who have minimal or unreliable speech due to neurologically-based motor speech disorders. Nonspeakers’ “voices” are now being heard, and what they have to say is shattering erroneous stereotypes about those for whom speech is not their primary mode of communication. Harmful beli
Love on the Spectrum: Meet Elaine, Steve and David!
We are celebrating our 100th Episode! We couldn't have done this without you, our Uniquely Human Community. Thank you! Love on the Spectrum is an Emmy award-winning Netflix reality TV show that follows young adults on the autism spectrum as they explore dating, love, and relationships. The show is based on an Australian version of the same name. Dave and Barry join Elaine Hall, who consu
De-pathologizing Series #3 – Autism and Relationships, with Dave and Barry
A great and harmful myth perpetuated for decades is that autistic people are incapable of deep connection, empathy, and loving relationships with others. Over the years, diagnostic criteria have included wording to this effect. We now know that this generalization is inaccurate, largely due to an understanding that autistic children and adults may “show up” in different ways in relationsh
Temple Grandin on Understanding Different Minds
Temple Grandin on Understanding Different Minds: Its importance in Education, Life Skills and Eventual Employment for Younger Autistic Individuals One of the many groundbreaking contributions that Dr. Temple Grandin has made in her career is increasing awareness of different learning styles demonstrated by autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Her work has been applied in enhancing emp
Neurodivergence, Chronic Pain (Fibromyalgia) and Lifestyle Medicine with Dr. Michael Lenz
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in a range of medical conditions experienced by individuals diagnosed with autism and other neurodivergent conditions. Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, diagnosed and undiagnosed, may present with complex conditions that cause considerable discomfort and pain, and that have a significant detrimental impact on quality of life. In s
Raising Neurodivergent Children of Color: with Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral
Jaya Ramesh and Priya Saaral, both neurodivergent professionals and parents of neurodivergent children bring a unique perspective to the challenges and gifts of raising children of color. Based on their new book, Parenting at the Intersections, we discuss the barriers that families of color face over and above those encountered by all families who have children with neurodevelopmental di
Autism on Broadway: "How to Dance in Ohio" Makes History
How to Dance in Ohio is a heart-filled new musical that explores what it means to belong, the courage it takes to put yourself out in the world, and the universal need to connect. The musical follows the challenges and triumphs faced by a group of seven autistic young adults at a counseling center in Columbus, Ohio. The center arranges a spring formal dance, and encourages them as they en
De-pathologizing Series EP 2 – Exploring the "Deep Why" of Control - with Barry and Dave
In his first description of autism, Leo Kanner noted that “insistence on preservation of sameness” was a distinguishing characteristic of autistic individuals. This may be manifest in a number of characteristics including “resistance to change” and the need to maintain routines that have been established in daily activities. Often such patterns may be manifest throughout the lifespan and
Anxiety, Phobias, and the Therapeutic Use of Humor - with Dr. Karen Levine
Autistic and other neurodivergent people of all ages are vulnerable to many factors, both internal and external, that may lead to anxiety and phobias. Dr. Karen Levine’s publications and clinical innovations have directly addressed these challenges in respectful and insightful ways. We discuss ways to understand such challenges and provide support based on a deeper understanding of the ex
De-pathologizing Series EP 1 – The Many Meanings of NO - with Barry and Dave
One of the most challenging behavioral patterns observed in neurodivergent individuals with developmental challenges (and, in fact, all children!), is when they verbally or nonverbally communicate “NO”. In fact, the term “Non-compliance” has been the most frequently used phrase when characterizing refusal or protest behavior, and such behavior most often raises the “ire” of an adult partn
Autistic Doctors International, with Dr. Mary Doherty.
Dr. Mary Doherty founded Autistic Doctors international to unify autistic voices who work in medical and health care to “have a seat at the table” in establishing policies and practices sensitive to the needs of neurodivergent individuals. She believes that the lived experience of autistic professionals is essential to shift medical and healthcare practices to be more effective and neuro
Low-demand Parenting: with Amanda Diekman
Amanda Diekman discusses and provides examples of the approach she refers to as “Low Demand Parenting” and presents this approach in contrast to advice often given to parents of autistic and other neurodivergent children. With her lived experience as a mother of three neurodivergent children, and as an autistic person, she challenges many mainstream beliefs about raising children, especi
Aging and Autism: with Christine Jenkins, Autistic Advocate
It is widely recognized, but unfortunately, that most attention is paid to understanding and supporting autistic individuals in their childhood years, but much less so in middle-aged and older individuals. The result is a critical need for understanding of the experience of autism in older and late-diagnosed individuals, both from a research and support need perspective. These issues are
The Predictive Mind, Neuroharmony and the H.A.P.P.Y Program, with Dr. Peter Vermeulen
Dr. Peter Vermeulen, a Belgian Psychologist, is an important international voice in his constructive criticism of popular views on understanding the autistic experience. He is one of the rare professionals who dedicates much of his time and effort to applying the most recent research on human cognition to thinking deeply about the inner experiences of autistic people. And he does so in t
Gratitude and the autistic experience, with Elaine Hall
The experience of autism creates complex relationships for many in a shared community, that can result in misunderstandings and even anger directed to others. People in these relationships include autistic individuals, parents, family members, educators, therapists, and many significant others. That said, there is also great potential for loving, mutually supportive and trusting relations
A Conversation with Elizabeth Bonker, a University Valedictorian and a Dedicated Advocate for Non-speakers
An understanding of the experiences of non-speakers, or those with minimal speech, is an essential part of the neurodiversity movement. With the appropriate supports, including AAC technology, non-speakers who were silent for years, are now capable of sharing their experiences and their feelings about being misunderstood and too often mistreated. Elizabeth Bonker, a non-speaking autistic
Talking Surf Therapy with Chris Antao, Founder of Gnome Surf Therapy
Chris Antao is the lead Surf Therapist, Trainer and EMT at his non-profit, Gnome Surf Therapy. He has grown Gnome Surf into the fastest growing Surf Therapy Organization globally. As founder and Executive Director, Chris has completed over 3,000 hours surfing with athletes of various ages and abilities, making him one of the most experienced Surf Therapists globally. He was an early con
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