Autism Resource Podcast

Navigating Divorce with Mary Ann Hughes

Mary Ann Hughes started Special Family Transitions to help others cope with the challenges of a divorce involving children who are neurodiverse or disabled. She shares her own story and offers suggestions on the important things to keep in mind and the best first steps to take. She also discusses how to support the children during this difficult time.

Language Learning with Dr. Hillary Ganek

Dr. Hillary Ganek is a specialist on the effects of hearing challenges on learning languages. She talks about the importance of considering a child’s culture and environment when giving speech therapy. She shares her experience and gives advice on how caregivers can help support a child’s identity while encouraging them to express themselves.

Sleep Innovations with George Bailey of zPods

George Bailey is the President of zPods, a company breaking new ground in innovations for better sleep. They have developed a new type of bed that offers a sensory-friendly experience for children and adults who have difficulty sleeping, including those who are neurodiverse. George discusses this new approach and shares a hopeful message for rethinking the importance of sleep in general.

Healing Through Art with Suzanne Firstenberg

Welcome to ARP’s 100^th episode! Suzanne Firstenberg joins us to celebrate. She is the talented artist behind the In America: Remember exhibition on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. She discusses the healing power of art as a means of positive social change. She also talks about art as a means of communication and expression for those who are neurodiverse or disabled. As she says, empathy is her medium.

Being Elvis with Aaron Smith

Aaron Smith is a young man with autism. Since he was 5 years old, his favorite musical artist has been Elvis Presley. He decided to create a live tribute to Elvis and has made a career impersonating him on stage. He talks about coping with his autism and pursuing one's dream no matter what. He shares his story with us in a fun and inspiring conversation.

Meditation for the Neurodiverse with Anlor Davin

Anlor Davin is a person with autism and a long-time zen practitioner, author and mother. She teaches free online meditation classes for the neurodiverse community and its allies. Originally from France, Anlor immigrated to the United States in her 20s. She talks about the many benefits of mediation and the peace and joy it can bring to anyone’s life.

The ABCs of ABLE Accounts with Cheryl Walfall-Flagg

Cheryl Walfall-Flagg is an ABLE National Resource Center Ambassador. Two of her three children are young men with autism. She has learned through experience how important this type of account is for anyone with qualifying disabilities. She talks about the many benefits of opening an ABLE account. Cheryl also shares her own story and how easy it is to open this account for your loved one. 

The IMPACT College Program with Briseida Ramirez

Briseida Ramirez is a faculty member at the Mt. San Antonio IMPACT program for Adults with Disabilities. This free college-level program teaches Independent Living Skills and other Life Building Skills. Although the program is currently not for credit, attendees can transfer to credit courses and work towards a degree. The application process is very easy. The program is offered both in-person and online. Courses include Romantic Relationships, Memory Building Skills, and Lifelong Learning.

Growing Up Neurodiverse with Jeff Snyder

Jeff Snyder is a young man with autism. In this episode, he shares his wisdom about growing up neurodiverse. He talks about dealing with challenges in the school environment. Jeff also discusses how important it is for parents to let their kids become as independent as possible. He tells us what it means to him to have a successful life. 

The MIND Institute with Dr. Leonard Abbeduto

Dr. Leonard Abbeduto is the Director of the MIND Institute at UC Davis. He shares their philosophy about putting families first. The Institute has grown over the years to service those with autism and other related conditions, including Fragile X syndrome. He stresses the importance of early diagnosis. Dr. Abbeduto and his team are at the forefront of research and development in their field. They use technology to reach clients in other states and countries. The ground-breaking college program at UC Davis for people with IDD is one of the first of its kind.