Aspieland

This episode is the memorial service for John Knoblock. Kathy is extremely grateful for the opportunity to serve and support the Aspieland community. Thank you for your patronage and support of Aspieland. This podcast was very important to John. One important way to honor John's legacy is for you to continue to grow in your understanding of others, grow in compassion, acceptance, and love for others. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

This subject is one those that impacts the relationship dynamic in almost every encounter.  We felt this was important enough to review and then talk about how this effects the Neurodiverse relationship. "Masking" is one of the many ways that those of us on the Spectrum hide ourselves from others.  We try to hide our autistic tendencies so that people in the Neurotypical world see us as one of them.  It's a method of acceptance we have been doing most of our lives with varying degrees of success.Todays visit we talk about how masking manifests itself and how to handle different scenarios where masking becomes part of things.  We also visit some troublesome ideas and some ways to stop masking and just be ourselves in a relationship close to someone else.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

My wife and I found that this subject is one those that impacts the relationship dynamic in almost every encounter.  We felt this was important enough to review and then talk about how this effects the Neurodiverse relationship. "Masking" is one of the many ways that those of us on the Spectrum hide ourselves from others.  We try to hide our autistic tendencies so that people in the Neurotypical world see us as one of them.  It's a method of acceptance we have been doing most of our lives with varying degrees of success.Todays visit we talk about how masking manifests itself.  We also visit some troublesome ideas and some ways to stop masking and just be ourselves.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

In the Neuro-Diverse relationship, sudden changes and hard impacts can really test yourself and your relationship.This podcast is the final part of the three part series.  As we finish exploring all the ways a sudden impact in your life,  just such an impact was delivered to my wife and I in the for of a cancer diagnosis.But it wasn't just the diagnosis that made the sudden impacts so hard on either the  person on the spectrum, or on the Neuro-typical partner.  It was the way the scenario played out, the ER, the surgery, the constant overload of doctors, nurses and a whole host of physical, sensory and emotional traumas in between.CONTENT WARNING:  This episode deals with serious medical conditions and cancer.  If this is a subject that is particularly painful for you, please skip this podcast.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

In the Neuro-Diverse relationship, sudden changes and hard impacts can really test yourself and your relationship.This podcast is the second in a three part series which explores all the ways a sudden impact in your life,  just such an impact was delivered to my wife and I in the for of a cancer diagnosis.But it wasn't just the diagnosis that made the sudden impacts so hard on either the  person on the spectrum, or on the Neuro-typical partner.  It was the way the scenario played out, the ER, the surgery, the constant overload of doctors, nurses and a whole host of physical, sensory and emotional traumas in between.CONTENT WARNING:  This episode deals with serious medical conditions and cancer.  If this is a subject that is particularly painful for you, please skip this podcast.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever have a sudden experience that changed your life?  In the Neuro-Diverse relationship, sudden changes and hard impacts can really test yourself and your relationship.After just such an impact was delivered to my wife and I in the for of a cancer diagnosis.  But it wasn't just the diagnosis that made the sudden impacts so hard on the person on the spectrum, or on the Neuro-typical partner.  It was the way the scenario played out, the ER, the surgery, the constant overload of doctors, nurses and a whole host of physical, sensory and emotional traumas in between.CONTENT WARNING:  This episode deals with serious medical conditions and cancer.  If this is a subject that is particularly painful for you, please skip this podcast. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

"Masking" is one of the many ways that those of us on the Spectrum hide ourselves from others.  We try to hide our autistic tendencies so that people in the Neurotypical world see us as one of them.  It's a method of acceptance we have been doing most of our lives with varying degrees of success.Todays visit we talk about how masking manifests itself.  We also visit some troublesome ideas and some ways to stop masking and just be ourselves.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Through the years, there have been many attempts at finding proper therapeutic methods for "curing" Autism and ASD.  Those of you who are older may recall the advertising campaigns launched as a result of higher incidents of Autism diagnosis that were rendered in the late 1960's and well into the '70's.  The idea was to "eradicate this awful disease" as was so commonly referred to during this era.Our culture was then predominated by the authoritarian modal (remember the common practice of paddling children in school?)  During this time individuals and organizations were hounding the US government to use ABA as a common approach to "curing" Autism.  As we all know now, Autism is not something that can be cured simply because it is not a disease nor a mental illness. However, ABA continues to be a controversial model for ASD therapy.  With so many opinions and even fewer facts, we decided to explore this kind of therapy in this podcast. It should be noted here that this podcast runs a bit longer than normal (25 minutes).Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever needed to let someone know about yourself?  Self-advocacy is all about improving your life situation be it work, school or personal relationships by finding ways to advance the needs that you have in a meaningful and collaborative way.In this, the second part of our discussion on advocacy, I discuss the idea of advocating for yourself.  I have, as my guest, Nathan Morgan, who is a self-advocate and helps others with learning self-advocacy.  We discuss the ideas of self-reflection and building self-esteem, practical approaches and other ideas. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

For those of us on the spectrum, getting through work or school or even everyday environments can be difficult.  This happens because of our sensitivities to light, temperature and other surroundings.  Sometimes these issues get in the way of our ability to work or study effectively.This podcast is a 2-part lesson on advocacy - and especially self-advocacy.  How do we approach someone to work out an issue?  How do you say the right things without coming across like your complaining?  All of these questions, as well as the basic understanding of what it means to advocate, are covered in both this visit and the next.Give it a listen.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

I can remember being in my early twenties.  It was a tumultuous time.  Trying to keep it all straight was a real mess for me because I am on the spectrum, but at the time did not know it.  I struggled and struggled with just about every aspect of the new adult life I was trying to live. Most of you who are past that time period in your life have gone through some rough times as well, regardless whether you are on the spectrum or not.Young adults on the spectrum are constantly bombarded with new and widely different issues and conflicts of both mind and heart.  I searched for research on this topic and found little to really help me out for this podcast, but I have found two very delightful young adults who were willing to talk to us about what it's like when you are in your early adult life and on the spectrum.  Their names are Elek and Claire.  Come and listen to their story of life with ASD and with the NT world.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Every so often during the course of my research I find a resource or organization that really stands out.  This podcast is about one such organization.  By most business standards this would be considered a small org (organization).  But it has a heart for autistic people and for those of us on the spectrum with a fierce stability. Even though their roster of employees is small, they have gone to great lengths to provide real help for those needing it.  In fact, they have Autistics working with them and for them.  I invite you to learn all about my 'diamond in the rough' in this podcast called (and rightfully so) "A Small Org with a BIG heart"Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Diagnosing Autism can be a very daunting process.  In some cases, especially in adults, the process can take several doctors, a multitude of tests and questions, and in some cases a fair amount of out-of-pocket expense.So why do we bother?  For some, it is a simple need to know for certain what we already suspect.  In the case of our children or a young adult, it could mean the difference between obtaining helpful services or having services that are possible but out of reach.This visit we talk with Dr. Allison Burke, the director of the diagnostic clinic at Akron Children's Hospital.  We'll get a glimpse of the diagnostic process and how Akron Children's is working to make the diagnosis process a more pleasant and workable experience.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

It is always a good thing when we get to meet new people.  For those of us on the spectrum, it can be especially true.  Meeting new people enhances our view of life and helps us to understand one another regardless of whether we are Neurodiverse or Neurotypical.For Aspies however, meeting another person on the spectrum is very much needed.  Not only do you engage in community, but you see just how different we all really are.  Even if we are on the spectrum.  Our differences teach us that finding others is not only good for us, but essential.This episode is the first in what will be an ongoing attempt to help us all meet others who are on the spectrum. We will try to bring you more of these periodically throughout the course of these podcasts...Enjoy!Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever been somewhere and felt like a puzzle piece was missing?  Almost as though you get this feeling in your gut that tells you that you don't belong there?  For those of us on the spectrum, that feeling troubles us a lot.  Not so much about places mind you - but about living.In this episode I talk about changing your paradigm.  Shifting from one set of thoughts to another.  Finding that place where you can settle in and get things in order.  I'm going to try to help you understand why it is important to have a starting place that is uniquely yours. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

This is the second part of our discussion on the struggles of NT spouses and their partners.  To re-iterate,  we (my wife and I) have received many messages regarding some strong issues and struggles of Neurodiverse couples and especially those of neurotypical spouses.Our concerns for these issues brought us to make this two-part discussion.  If you have not yet heard the first part, please pause and listen to it before beginning this one.  We set out to help concerning neurotypical spouses and the suspicion of the significant partner's being on the spectrum.  Specifically  - the struggle to communicate in order to move to understanding if the partner really is on the spectrum.Sometimes when faced with the issues of spectrum suspicion and possible discovery, the partner blocks off any communication from the concerned NT spouse.  We (Aspies) do this for a variety of reasons and in this episode we share our insights and give you some suggestions with this very thing and we hope we can help you (both partners) sort this out.  Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

We have received many messages regarding the issues and struggles of Neurodiverse couples and especially those neurotypical spouses and some issues that they face.We (my wife and I) have been so very concerned that we immediately set out to help with exactly this issue concerning neurotypical spouses and the suspicion of the significant partner's being on the spectrum.  Specifically  - the struggle to communicate in order to move to understanding if the partner really is on the spectrum.Sometimes when faced with the issues of spectrum suspicion and possible discovery, the partner blocks off any communication from the concerned NT spouse.  We (Aspies) do this for a variety of reasons and in this episode (and the one next visit as well) we share our insights during our struggle with this very thing and we hope we can help you (both partners) sort this out.  Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

In this, the second part of the topic "Getting Things Done" we continue to look at those executive Functions we all share (NT or ASD).  How do we manage to finish projects or begin new ones? These functions handle how we organize, prioritize, recall details, keep track of how where doing and even how we use self-control in our daily lives.  Which functions are more prominent for me?  For those of us on the spectrum, EF's can be a particularly sticky business.  While most Neurotypical folks have some minor operating levels of each function, those with ASD have very large and widening areas of function and deficit.I will help you to understand EF's and help you out with some useful tips you can use to improve your executive functions.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever wonder what gets you going in the morning?  How in the world do we manage to finish projects or begin new ones?  Most of these and a whole host of other things are managed by what are called "Executive Functions".  These functions handle how we organize, prioritize, recall details, keep track of how where doing and even how we use self-control in our daily lives.For those of us on the spectrum, EF's can be a particularly sticky business.  While most Neurotypical folks have some minor operating levels of each function, those with ASD have very large and widening areas of function and deficit.In this two-part podcast I will go over executive functions and what they are, how they work and how you can train yourself to make deficiencies into efficiencies.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

We continue our visit with Carrie Donnell about the needs of children on the autism spectrum  when it comes to being treated in a hospital  emergency room, an emergency clinic, or even in the doctors office.  Training in the understanding of stims, sensitivities and meltdowns is critical to quality care by the medical community.  In this episode, we learn about ways to advocate for your child when in a medical community that perhaps does not fully understand the autistic support needed while in their care.  We also look into ways to help our autistic children to advocate for themselves as they grow into their teens .  The realization of the need is expanding, because there are so many children that have so many things to be advocated for.Perhaps this episode can help you understand not only how to advocate for your son or daughter, but for all who are on the spectrum as well.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Being a parent of an child on the spectrum is a daunting experience.  Many times there is a need to advocate for your child.  The realization of the need is expanding, because there are so many children that have so many things to be advocated for.Not the least of these is to gain understanding of the needs of children on the autism spectrum  when it comes to being treated in a hospital  emergency room, an emergency clinic, or even in the doctors office.  Training in the understanding of stims, sensitivities and meltdowns is critical to quality care by the medical community.In this episode, we will be talking with Carrie Donnell, a mother of a now 17 year old son who is on the spectrum.  Listen to her story of how she helped bring teaching to a hospital pediatric ICU.   Perhaps it can help you understand not only how to advocate for your son or daughter, but for all who are on the spectrum as well.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever felt like you were drowning in bad feelings?  Our world (whether Spectrum or NT) seems like its just a lot of downers.  According to research, we apparently are genetically designed with negative factors.  This 'bend' towards negativity can really effect our attitude and outlook on life.  This is especially evident in the life of those of us with AS/ASD. Our anxiety levels are very much effected by our feelings and our reactions to our negative world.In this episode, you will earn about our "negative bias" and how to work your way out of a swamp and into a better life.  Let's move from "Down To Up" this week in Aspieland.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever found yourself looking for resources to help you understand AS/ASD?  If you have, then the chances are pretty good that you will find lots of books, tapes, videos and web sites (especially websites) that are so negative that you can't find a ray of help in it.The trick to finding real help that is constructive and hopeful is to carefully look for positives.  Positive words that describe those who have AS/ASD are a good sign that this resources may be of some help to you.  That is one reason I created this podcast.  I want to be a positive and encouraging resource for all people - not just those on the spectrum, but anyone who wants to understand AS/ASD.In this episode, my wife and I explore some good book resources and and options for those who may be struggling.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Sorting out your feelings (and we all have them  - both AS/ASD and neurotypical) and learning to really listen for those feeling is important to our neurodiversity.  Those of us with AS/ASD are thirsty for relationships that are real and heartfelt.  Yes, it's true.  My wife and I finally wrap up our series on Navigating the Neurodiverse marriage.  We discuss the importance of empathy and expressing our feelings, as well as a few things we discovered along the way.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Sometimes our closest relationships, which are usually the  committed ones, are the most difficult to maintain.   Emotions get mixed up with communication and  - blam! - instant conflict.Or is it really a conflict?  Or just a garbled communication?In this episode Kathy and I visit some of those issues and some possible solutions.  Whether you are the NT or the Aspie in the relationship, this second in the three part series may help you sort some things out.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever find yourself talking with someone and it looks as though your listener has checked out of the conversation?  It may not be what you think.  This podcast is all about just that.  Learning to navigate your way through a relationship that has an Aspie on one side and an NT on the other. Love  comes with a multitude of feelings, thoughts, concerns, responsibilities on so on...  and communication is a key issue for those who are in neurodiverse relationships.  The partner with Asperger's/ASD may likely seem distant or un engaged during even the most casual of conversations.  Whereas the NT partner may likely get dismayed or even frustrated with what appears to be an unconcerned or uncaring AS partner.Let's work together as we go 'full speed ahead' in learning some of the speed bumps, pitfalls, detours and victories in this podcast .  Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever have something that you knew had to be done but you didn't feel like doing it?  You put it off and put it off until it either becomes a critical issue or it becomes an opportunity that passes you by.  In this episode I'll be talking about something that, for those of you men who have AS/ASD and are in a neuro diverse relationship, you may really be struggling with.  It's time to reach for the finish line, gentlemen.  Not move it.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

When I was just a kid, my brother and I would play chess.  He would always have my king in check within a short time.  I was always puzzled by the fact that he could outwit me so easily, by seemingly knowing what I was thinking.In this episode, the topic is thinking.  How those of us who live with AS/ASD think and how we all, Aspies and neurotypicals alike, are busy out-thinking the other. Be ready for a quick lesson in communication and social skills.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

A new year brings new beginnings and gives us a chance to re-fresh and renew.  We are proud to have been able to bring you the Aspieland podcasts for 2021!  We are beginning a new season and this is a much shorter program ( we didn't want to interrupt your holidays too much!).In this podcast we'll give you a quick idea of where we are heading into 2022 and some new thoughts and new ways to present them to you.    Enjoy your year-end festivities and get ready for an exciting and informative new season in Aspieland.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

It's time for more jingling bells, candles, food and getting together with family!  Translation: the holidays are here.  Along with all of the visits and gifts and celebrations comes a great deal of planning and cooking and being with others.For those who have Asperger's and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder this can be the most stressful time of the year.  For all of the sensitivities and sensory overloads that can certainly be experienced, there is also the opportunity for love and happiness - it's just not easy.Join my wife and I as we present the second part of our two-part series on the holidays and how we can enjoy the experience by understanding each other and being sensitive to each other. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

It's time for jingling bells, candles and lots of food!  Translation: the holidays are here.  Along with all of the visits and gifts and celebrations come a great deal of planning and cooking and being with friends and family.For those who have Asperger's and/or Autism Spectrum Disorder this can be the most stressful time of the year.  For all of the sensitivities and sensory overloads that can certainly be experienced, there is also the opportunity for love and happiness - it's just not easy.Join my wife and I as we present the first of a two-part series on just the holidays and how we can enjoy the experience by understanding each other and being sensitive to each other.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

We all have things that make us comfortable.   A certain chair, a certain pair of jeans or even a particular blanket can help us feel nice and warm and safe.   We also have certain routines that bring us that same feeling.  For some it is that ceremonial first cup of coffee, or the routine of folding clothes a certain way or even the routine of the route you take to work or school every day.  These routines are sometimes called habits and no matter what you call them, they are a comfort and almost joyful feeling for you.For this of us on the spectrum, routines help define us.  We rely heavily on our routines to give life structure and surety.  We lean on them because they help keep the mind ordered.  Routines can be good things and they can also become a hindrance when living in the NT world without our realizing it.  Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

We live in a Mr. Fix-It world.  When we see anything out of place in our lives, we immediately start looking for the quick fix, the cure or the harmless and costless solution.  In doing so, we often look too hastily  for a cause and end up with a stigma instead of honest information.  We'll take a good look at why we think the way we do when it comes to other people and especially how we consider others who are different then ourselves.  For those of us who are Aspies (or on the spectrum) and for the neurotypical, differences are keeping us apart instead of bringing us together.  It is so important that we find a common place of understanding for those with AS/ASD who are trying to live in the world around you, but for the NT as well, trying to make sense of those who live a different life.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Life changing events happen to all of us.  Some are good things, like a new member of the family coming along. Others are not, such as an accident or injury. Still others can really go either way.  As human beings we can't keep these things bottled up inside us for very long and have the need (or desire) to reveal the issue or event to someone.In the world of those of us on the spectrum, this can be especially difficult.  Not only for the decision to speak about it  - but exactly whom to mention your recent diagnosis.  Apprehension and anxiety can be very high for the Aspie, and for the recipient of the now revealed diagnosis – which is usually a neurotypical friend or family member.This visit, my co-host Kathy and I talk about the “Big Reveal” and conclude this two-part conversation about the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and how it affects not only the life of the person who has the disorder, but to family, wives/husbands/partners, friends and co-workers. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever faced such a difficult decision that created a real dilemma?  Not just a dilemma of facts, but of feelings and perceived reactions that would occur no matter how you chose?  Those of us who share in this world I call ‘Aspieland' face, at one time or another, a decision whether to move from a strong suspicion (and subsequently a firm belief) that we have Asperger's Syndrome / Autism Spectrum Disorder to a firm diagnosis of AS/ASD.  There are so many things to consider that it makes the decision difficult to maneuver through.This podcast is a discussion of that decision.  With my wife as co-host, we will dialogue about “The Diagnosis Dilemma”Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Ever have a burger with a “secret sauce” or chicken with a “secret” recipe?  Or pancakes with a “secret ingredient” that made them taste like no other pancake in the world?  Perhaps you were like me and had a special dish that your mother made that had a “secret” something that made it taste out of this world?The truth is we all wonder what those secrets are.  We speculate and taste again and again to try to discover exactly what the secret is.  In this episode, we'll look into the world of the secret ingredient and let's see if you can figure out what the “secret” is in this fun episode that will hopefully bring a smile to your face.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Did you know that 20% of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder suffer from depression?  That may not sound like much, until you consider that only 6% of the general population has it, and when you add the fact that almost 5 million adults in the US have ASD...you see what I mean.  In this episode we deal with  depression.  So if you're feelin' mighty low.. give this episode a listen..Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

The world of the business can be a very daunting experience for anyone on the spectrum.  Whether you flip burgers or meet in a boardroom, being a member of the workforce can stretch your Asperger's/ASD to extremes.  This episode we look into ways to release the pressures and start enjoying where you work.  We also look into family life and the Aspie life and how they can function and support each other while still finding joy in the moments. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

We had so much to say  - so we thought we would stick around!  We continue our visit with my guest host to talk more about the special things that can happen when one spouse is neurotypical, and the other has Asperger's/Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Neurodiversity can play a big role in an intimate relationship. We hope to help you recognize a struggle before it becomes a problem and offer suggestions to help minimize them.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Marriage is a wonderful time of life.  Whether you are young or old, newly married or a seasoned veteran., it never ceases to amaze.  Right?...  Okay, we really do struggle sometimes during the marriage.  When one of the members of the couple has Asperger's Syndrome/Autism Spectrum Disorder, the struggles can be confusing, intense and stressful. This episode is a special look - straight from those who are living it - at the struggles that occur in the Neurodiverse marriage. and ways to ease the difficulties and learn to make a happier and more joyful marriage.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

According to a study done by Toronto Redpath Centre, as few as 9% of those with ASD ever get married.  Fewer than 32% ever have a love relationship with a partner.  The possibility of romance is widely considered out of reach by those who have Asperger's Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorder.  Romantic relationships are laced with so many nuances of trust, communication and deeper feelings of the heart that Aspies have a really hard time.  We continue our look into relationships by working through these things and more in this episode of Aspieland.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Having friends makes life joyful and exciting.  While that certainly is true for most people, it is widely considered out of reach for those with AS/ASD.  Many Aspies feel that having a genuine friend is not possible, much less a relationship that brings love or marriage.  This episode is a continued look at relationships with a focus on making friends and the things that can keep us from the real joy of friendship.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

It is said that there is no greater gift than friendship.  While that certainly is true for most people, it is widely considered out of reach for those with AS/ASD.  Many Aspies feel that having a genuine friend is not possible, much less a relationship that brings love or marriage.  This episode is all about the world of relationships and the search for that ‘rainbow connection' with someone special.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever tried to start a conversation and not know what to say?  For those who have Asperger's Syndrome/Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is considered the toughest problem we face - verbal communication.   For some it is nearly impossible to begin a conversation – even with your best friend or spouse.  In this episode we begin a series of podcasts on relationships and we start out this visit with a discussion on how verbal conversation works.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever had a childhood memory strike you at the oddest moment?  Did you ever feel all the emotions that came with it?  Memories are with us always, be they good or bad.  For those diagnosed with Asperger's or ASD as an adult, it can be especially hard to reconcile childhood memories.  In this episode, we look into how to reconcile our lives through the pain of the past.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

For the Aspie, the threat of a meltdown due to sensory overload can sometimes feel like the cowboys duel.  Where you have your hand just itching to pull the trigger and start the meltdown.  In this episode, we take practical approaches for both the Aspie and neurotypical to calm that itch and keep sensory overloads from happening.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

For those of us who have AS/ASD, our minds are full of every detail around us and we are constantly aware of the threat of a sensory overload called a “meltdown”.  It's all a part of the constant barrage of sensory information.  Sometimes the overflow of information puts us into a bad place and we become undone.   Learn about the inner world of mind and meltdown in this episode. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Have you ever seen a tightwire artist as they balance themselves along a high wire? Trying to keep themselves from falling to the left or right - balancing so that they can make it to the other side?  Well in this episode, we hear from a young man as he tells us what being on the spectrum is like and how he tries to live on the tightwire.Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Their Baaack!  Our guests from our last episode are back to finish talking about raising a boy on the spectrum.  How do you adjust to the inevitable paradigm shift into the world of neurodiversity?  Hear the conclusion of this inspiring story of love and discovery in this episode of Aspieland. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Being a new parent is challenging enough, but what if you discovered that your child has ASD?  How do you adjust to the inevitable paradigm shift?  This episode we have a couple who are doing just that.  Hear their story in this episode of Aspieland. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe

Talking is our most common form of communication.  But did you know that you send and receive thousands of pieces of communication that is not verbal every day?  In this episode we explore the world of non-verbal communications and how that affects those of us with Asperger's/ASD who often miss these fundamental forms of understanding. Support the showThanks for Listening! Get In Touch: Aspieland.org@gmail.com John@aspieland.org Help Us Produce More: https://www.aspieland.org/donate Join the Family: https://www.aspieland.org/subscribe