Autism Grown Up Podcast

The Personal Care Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Personal Care Toolkit, we'll be focusing on what personal care looks like as well as building supports starting with the individual. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource and can share this at home and in their work. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it's never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Transition Planning Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Transition Planning Toolkit, we'll be focusing on what transition planning can look like as well as building high-quality transition plans. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource and can share this at home and in their work. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it's never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Guardianship + Alternatives Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Guardianship + Alternatives Toolkit, we'll be focusing on what guardianship can look like as well as supporting its less restrictive alternatives. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource and can share this at home and in their work. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it's never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Adult Services Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Adult Services Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on the beginning and early stages of applying for adult and community-based services. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource and can share this at home and in their work. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Voting Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Voting Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on voter education at any age and how to promote voting as a self-advocacy skill. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource and can share this at home and in their work. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Research Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Research Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on the types of research we often rely on as well as discussing some of the ways we can find trusted resources. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Getting a Job Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Getting a Job Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on the realities of getting a job today as well as discussing some of the specific needs autistic people have related to this topic. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Support Network Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Support Network Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on relationships as well as discussing some of the specific needs autistic people have related to this topic. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Relationships Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Relationships Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on relationships as well as discussing some of the specific needs autistic people have related to this topic. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Self-Advocacy Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Self-Advocacy Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on self-advocacy as well as discussing some of the specific needs autistic people have related to this topic. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox

The Physical Activity Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Physical Activity Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on physical activity as well as discussing some of the specific needs autistic people have related to this topic. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

The Friendship Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In this Friendships Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on making friends as well as discussing some of the obstacles. Each individual is in a different place and may benefit from learning about ideas and ways to support or seek support. Professionals, family members, and community members can gain a lot of insight from this resource on framing friendships and supporting them, as well as, how to be a better friend to someone on the autism spectrum. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

The Transportation Toolkit is one of the many resources within the growing collection of resources in the AGU Lifespan Toolbox. Each week, we'll be sharing the audio from each toolkit so you can also listen in and learn more about these important topics. In the Transportation Toolkit, we’ll be focusing on the transportation options as well as discussing some of the obstacles to transportation for autistic people. Each individual is in a different place and can benefit from learning about the options available to them. Certain types of transportation can be difficult to manage for some, and there are also other considerations such as geographic area, transportation options in your local community, and accessibility. We’ll be covering public transportation as well as briefly other personal, private options such as driving and rideshare. ABOUT THE LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: The Lifespan Toolbox is a free online resource for the autism community. The Toolbox consists of toolkits for each topic area important to the lifespan, particularly preparing for and navigating adulthood. This information is applicable for those who have a younger child on the autism spectrum, teens, and adults. In our experience, it’s never too early to be thinking about adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/podcast AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: https://www.autismgrownup.com/donate LIFESPAN TOOLBOX: https://www.autismgrownup.com/toolbox --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Alliance of Disability Advocates (ADANC) is a federally recognized Center for Independent Living (CIL) established in 1999 (then Universal Disability Advocates). Funding for Centers was authorized by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (The Act). ADANC works diligently to ensure individuals with significant disabilities have every opportunity to live as independently as possible in the community of their choice. In this episode, I will be talking with Gerald Parrish, a Community Inclusion Consultant from the ADANC about Travel Training. What is Travel Training? One-on-one instruction that teaches seniors and people with disabilities how to travel safely and independently using public transportation. Participants learn travel skills to meet their individual needs while using a specific bus route. These routes can consist of traveling to school, work, or a community destination such as malls, movies, the library, or just a friend’s house. Each individual’s needs and abilities differ so training and length of training vary with each person. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

There numerous reasons why we're covering this topic in this episode: parents and profesionals are looking for activities and opportunities to fill their person's day with activities they enjoy; self-advocates are looking for this info as well and perhaps people who understand and may want join; a dearth of opportunities in adulthood; growing need to get ideas for this upcoming winter and continued lockdowns and closures. Read more from one of our most popular blog posts: Activities for Autistic Adults AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

It's no secret that starting at Thanksgiving and for the rest of the holidays in 2020, celebrations are going to look a little bit different this year. Kicking off our first official co-hosting episode, Rory and Tara - the now father-daughter duo - discuss and share 5 ways we're keeping the holidays fun AND still safe this year. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Aaaand we're back! With a new season, new co-host, and more news to share. More about Rory Regan: Rory is a super proud father to 4 children, including 2 sons on the autism spectrum (Tyler & Tanner), an Air Force veteran, and is an advocate in the autism community. He enjoys sharing what he's learned along the way, what he's continuing to learn as his sons navigate adulthood, and promoting the Autism Grown Up vision and mission for other families to be able to have the resources they need. Listen to Rory's episode from earlier this year, Episode 43 AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Andrew Komarow is the Founder of Planning Across the Spectrum and specializes in helping any self-advocating client or families with autism and intellectual disabilities. Planning Across the Spectrum is a company designed for more than just financial planning. Andrew created a resource to provide expert guidance and valuable resources for life decisions that are either unknown, not easily accessible or can be complicated to pilot for someone with special needs. Andrew is a passionate advocate for autism awareness in his community and for his work as a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP™). He has always worked toward helping his clients gain financial security now and for their future. Putting both of these interests together, Andrew was inspired to launch Planning Across the Spectrum. Andrew provides a unique planning perspective for those with special needs, their caregivers, and their families because he has “walked in their shoes.” He has experienced the medical, social, educational, legal, vocational, and relational issues that come with being a member of the autism community. Due to this, he can provide specialized aid to his clients, and most importantly, he understands that every situation is unique. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Eric Jorgensen is the founder and owner of Special Needs Navigator. He started it to help families and professionals navigate the maze of benefits, resources, and services. As a dad with an adult son with Autism, ID and other challenges; Eric experienced first-hand the challenges of getting clear and direct instructions about what he needed to do to help his son prepare to transition from school into the work force. He was widowed the same year he retired from the Navy when he needed support the most. Eric's focus is ensuring the families he works with don't experience the same headaches and stress. In addition to families, Eric works with professionals – providing back office support and answers to experts like financial advisors, social workers, attorneys and trust officers – around the country. In this episode, we talk about the shared frustration of navigating the adulthood disability services system, what he’s learned along the way in helping families, and 3 actionable steps that families can do now to get started with navigating their own maze of benefits, resources, and services. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Jeff Snyder is an autistic self-advocate, speaker, and is very active online sharing his work, insights, and experiences. He was diagnosed with autism at 21 months old and has accomplished so much in his life ranging from being the first student with autism to complete his education in his town's school district to getting his own apartment at age 25, plus working in the retail industry for 13 years. Now as an autism self-advocate, he is looking to serve as an inspiration to others that were just like him once. He runs both a Facebook group and a Facebook page devoted to his advocacy and in addition, is also an avid traveler and a writer of fanfiction - which set him on his path to becoming more vocal and involved in the community online and doing presentations to share his experiences in special education and employment. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

In today's solo episode, I get into the ongoing changes we've been experiencing and continue to experience due to the COVID 19 pandemic. We've been through really hard times with closures, and more questions arise with reopening, possibilities of closures again, and ongoing and lasting changes in our communities. I share 3 tips / guidelines to support you, your family, your students through the next while of the pandemic. This is a good episode and resource to return to, reference, and encourage you on those rough days and everything in between. These are also great to think about when we want to get back to the basics of what life is really about and pursuing a meaningful quality of life for ourselves. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOW NOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ SUPPORT FUTURE EPISODES OF THE PODCAST: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Spectrum Works was founded by Ann Marie Sullivan to address a critical disconnect between an 80% unemployment rate for individuals on the autism spectrum and their value to the workforce as employees with inherent skills and abilities. Here’s some background on what Spectrum Works does: the Spectrum Works signature Job Training and Employment Program incorporates integrated on-the-job training, classroom-based learning with a focus on soft skills, and competitive employment opportunities via partnerships with participating companies. They employ highly skilled Job coaches co-locate within the companies to master the students’ responsibilities in order to properly instruct and mentor them throughout the lifecycle from training to placement as interns and employees. And now their Online Remote Work and Learning Program is a recently added distance learning version of the signature program delivered through live video conferencing. It incorporates office work assignments, career building skills, and job readiness training and is offered virtually to high schools and individuals with autism across the nation. This programming is available to young adults with autism aged 16 and above who are in high school or post-high school. In this episode, we discuss challenges in the transition to adulthood related to employment, how Ann Marie had a plan for Spectrum Works and worked to get the non-profit off the ground and running with collaborations with high schools and businesses. Since the start of the pandemic, Ann Marie and her team pivoted to create their Online Remote Work and Learning Program - you’ll want to hear how they made this happen and learn more about the opportunities with this program! We also get into actionable steps for businesses and employers to do to build effective and sustainable Diversity and Inclusion programs in the workplace. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOW NOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Eric Chessen, M.S. is the Founder of Autism Fitness and creator of the PAC Profile Method. Eric has spent nearly 20 years developing successful fitness and adapted PE programs for the ASD population of all ages and abilities levels. His work has been featured on VICE Media, Yahoo News, and Eric has presented for TEDx. He lives in Charlotte, NC. In this episode, we discuss how Autism Fitness got started: Eric saw a need to create fitness programming that is actionable and combines his background in fitness and autism; how fitness is best when individualized and applied to one’s daily living and their own version of a better quality of life; we break down the PAC Profile Method - what does PAC stand for (Physical, Adaptive, and Cognitive); and Eric provides 3 actionable steps for families and individuals to start working on long-term physical skills. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ SUPPORT AUTISM GROWN UP: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Alicia Trautwein is an autism advocate, writer, motivational speaker, and dedicated mom of four. Alicia's desire to advocate for Autism comes from her own autism diagnosis and that of her three children, niece, and brother. Her life's mission is to educate on autism acceptance and change the world for future generations of autistic individuals. Her blog and website, The Mom Kind is an amazing resource where she shares her journey and resources for families. We discuss her own self-diagnosis, common issues that autistic women face as they receive their own diagnosis -  including misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and a whole lot of frustration - as well as parenting as an autistic and parenting multiple children on the autism spectrum. We also get into current events and what life is like at home during the pandemic. AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

This week on the podcast I am doing this solo! I'm sharing how Autism Grown Up got started and how I'm finding my way (and continue to work at it) through 5 major lessons over the past 2 years. I wanted to share this and some of the details of running a non-profit online focused on autism in adulthood. I hope you find this episode to be a fun chat to kick up your feet and relax to - we all need a moment like that! AUTISM GROWN UP WEBSITE: https://www.autismgrownup.com AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Sean Sullivan is an autistic self-advocate and is the Founder and Executive Director of the I Know Autism Foundation. His hobbies include watching anime, blogging, and spending time with his family. In our conversation today, we discuss Sean’s experiences growing up and navigating adulthood, why he founded the I Know Autism Foundation, and what he hopes to achieve in the future. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Holly Blanc Moses is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Licensed Psychological Associate, and Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience in applied behavior analysis and behavior therapy. Holly and I discuss "challenging behavior" and why it's important to challenge ourselves as caregivers + professionals in these discussions because it does have negative implications. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Samuel Huber is an autistic advocate who is 31 years old and lives in Bridgeport, PA, with his wife Gisette and son Sky. He was diagnosed with ASD at 14 years old. It is his life’s work to be an independent musician and public speaker on ASD to teach others how to put a positive spin on their lives. On his YouTube channel and Instagram, Samuel gives insight on the autistic perspective on a wide variety of topics related to adulthood. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Today I’m chatting with 2 guests - both representing different perspectives of a program called the Neurodiversity in the Workplace Initiative. They are based out of Philadelphia and work with businesses and potential candidates on the autism spectrum nationally to promote neurodiversity in the workplace. We have Amanda Zorzi who is an Employment and Training Specialist and Austin Martin who is a graduate/member of the training program. In this episode, you will learn more about: The mission of Neurodiversity in the Workplace (NITW) NITW’s model of training employers and future employees How they’ve adjusted the hiring process with employers to better display work skills and talents AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

After many years of working as a high school English teacher and special educator, Corinne Levitt decided to change direction and work primarily with adolescents with special needs and developmental differences. She wrote Exceptional Minds Across the Autism Spectrum in recognition of the need to promote the important role an enriched educational experience can have on the lives of students who stand to benefit the most from best teaching practices. Her background in learning disabilities, psycholinguistics, and the arts enabled her to "teach to the talent" while encouraging her students to discover and explore their potential. She inspires other educators to re-examine what lies behind our current understanding of the autism spectrum and learning differences, in order to create a school culture based on dignity, respect, social inclusion, and the right to a meaningful education. In this episode, you will learn more about: Developing a child's strengths and not becoming locked into labels. Recognizing the adolescent years as an important opportunity for learning and developing new skills and talents as we prepare students for the future. How to see past deficits and recognize the innate potential of all students to learn and thrive. Let’s jump into my interview with Laurie Hellman! AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Laurie Hellmann has spent the last 15 years fiercely navigating through therapies, medications and countless other medical and personal challenges with her son, Skyler, all while continuing to fight for and be the voice for other families with a loved one on the autism spectrum.  She also has a 15-year-old neurotypical daughter who is just now starting to express that being a sibling of autism is not for the weak because it means that every day is a whirlwind and you never know what to expect.   Laurie started a podcast in the Fall of 2019 entitled “Living the Sky Life” to further document and bring a voice to the often-unspoken struggles that families with special needs children, and specifically teenagers, face day to day.  Laurie also wrote a memoir, “Welcome to My Life – A Personal Parenting Journey Through Autism” that is available for pre-order on Amazon and will be released on June 26th! In this episode, you will learn more about: Laurie’s journey as a special needs mom, her son Skyler is 17 The idea and writing process for her memoir Her desire to expand the conversation about autistic children aging out of services with few options for programs and resources as an adult Learning about promoting independence and other areas as your child grows up Let’s jump into my interview with Laurie Hellman! AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Dr. Temple Grandin is a prominent author and speaker on both autism and animal behavior. She is one of the most famous autistic self-advocates out there and has written extensively on her experiences growing up and navigating every day as an autistic person. One of which was adapted to an Emmy-winning HBO film. Currently, she is a Professor of Animal Science at Colorado State University. In this episode, you will learn Temple’s thoughts on: What’s important to focus on in adulthood Defining executive functioning and self-advocacy Skills for getting and keeping a job Neurodiversity-affirming workplaces Let’s jump into my interview with Dr. Temple Grandin! AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Dr. Lisa Peña is a Today Show Parenting Team contributor and the founder of the nonprofit The M.o.C.h.A.(TM) Tribe which stands for (M)oms (o)f (C)hildren that (h)ave (A)utism. She directs a one day wellness retreat for special needs mommas each year called The Ultimate M.o.C.h.A. Session. She is the writer behind the blog The M.o.C.h.A. Tribe Diaries and the author of the book, "Waiting for the Light Bulb". She is a rookie author but a professional mother of a child with an incredibly unique subset of autism called, pathological demand avoidance (PDA). Dr. Peña is also a proud coach’s wife, a clinical pharmacist, passionate public speaker and a busy mom of three who happily resides in South Padre Island, TX. In this episode, you will learn: Lisa’s work with her non-profit, the M.o.C.h.A.(TM) Tribe, and collaborating with other autism moms About the writing process and creation of her first book, “Waiting for the Light Bulb” About pathological demand avoidance (PDA) and how Lisa put the pieces together about this diagnosis with her child AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP DONATIONS: www.autismgrownup.com/support-agu --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Esteamed Coffee is a non-profit coffee shop and bakery in downtown Cary, NC opening in November 2020. Esteamed Coffee will employ people with visual, communication and intellectual/developmental differences in a life participation model of community, while esteeming people with differing abilities. Co Founders and friends Angie Hudson and Tamara Lapsley started Esteamed Coffee in 2017 and are now only months away from bringing their dream to reality! In this episode, you will learn: The beginning of Esteamed Coffee and what kick-started its mission The process of getting a non-profit organization like this started How to support Esteamed Coffee from wherever you are and support similar organizations in your community AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Bronson Layton is a 22-year-old autistic self-advocate, YouTuber, and currently a senior in college majoring in English. He started his YouTube channel, Brons Over Brains, just over a year ago and creates videos that entertain and educate. His goal is to become a Professor of English. In this episode, you will learn: The beginning of Bronson’s YouTube journey and what kick-started it for him What topics Bronson is interested in and has covered in his videos Bronson’s best pieces of advice to autistic teens and young adults as they go through challenges in high school and college AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Lisa is the founder and CEO of MERGE Inclusion Consulting where she provides comprehensive consultation, staff training and systems implementation to community entities committed to recreation, sport and social program inclusion of persons with diverse abilities. She has spent 35 years supporting individuals with IDD to be active and engaged within their community through her work as a direct support professional, Director of the Sollar Wellness Center, and the South Shore YMCA as its first-ever Associate Director of Inclusion. Lisa and I discuss what authentic inclusion looks like for recreational programs, how she works with organizations to broaden their perspective of what inclusion means, and how she defines what she calls authentic inclusion. Authentic inclusion is the work we do to create systems-level changes to be inclusive in their culture and its reflected in their practices. Lisa also shares what’s doing to adapt and pivot to needs during this time of uncertainty. She’s leading a webinar called Inclusion is Not Cancelled and focuses on “keeping the social” of social distancing and argues for a language shift to be physical distancing, but using this time to still build inclusion into organizations. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Becca Lory Hector, CAS, BCCS was diagnosed on the autism spectrum as an adult and has since become a dynamic autism advocate, consultant, speaker, and author with dual certifications as a Certified Autism Specialist (CAS) and Cognitive Specialist (BCCS). With a focus on living an active, positive life, her work includes autism & neurodiversity consulting; public speaking engagements; a monthly blog, “Live Positively Autistic”; a weekly YouTube news show, “Neurodiversity Newsstand,”; and being an Assistant Editor/Feature Writer for Spectrum Women Magazine. An animal lover with a special affinity for cats, Becca spends most of her free time with her many animals, her husband Antonio Hector, and their Emotional Support Animal (ESA), Sir Walter Underfoot. Becca and I discuss her path to self-determined decision making, with her ASD diagnosis as a jumping off point, and how it’s so critical that other autistics learn and practice this skill. She’s interested in quality of life, specifically creating quality of life assessments with autistic measures because these are typically created for the neurotypical person. “There are so many people telling autistic people what to do and that can be dangerous. It’s important for us to pursue the quality of life that we want.” - Becca Lory Hector AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Beth Rosenberg is the Founder and Executive Director of Tech Kids Unlimited, a not-for-profit organization based in New York City. Beth has a background in special needs and technology, which informs how Tech Kids Unlimited began and its educational + student/staff ratio model. Tech Kids Unlimited seeks to open up the field of technology to students with disabilities, especially those on the autism spectrum to help them become the techies of tomorrow. Speaking of, Beth and I discuss her goals in promoting employability and implementing programming to support work-based learning experiences, such as internships and courses focused on technology skills that translate to the workplace. Plus bonuses that I enjoyed hearing about: the sense of community they’ve cultivated, collaborations with peers, teaming amongst staff, and self-determination to pursue your own interests. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

For this week’s episode, we are chatting with Ray Hemachandra, who is the father of Nicholas Hemachandra, a 19-year-old autistic and intellectually disabled young man. Ray and his son are based in western North Carolina, where he speaks and writes about autism and neurodiversity. In this episode, we take a deep dive into neurodiversity and what he refers to as authentic self-determination. This is a great episode for parents and professionals supporting individuals on the spectrum who are growing up because supporting self-determination and support networks are important well before an autistic person becomes an adult. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Rachel Worsley is the Founder and CEO of Neurodiversity Media - an online agency based in Australia. She integrates her background in journalism, law, and personal experience as someone with ADHD and who was recently within the past couple of years diagnosed autistic. Ever since launching Neurodiversity Media within this last year, her insightful, innovative work has taken off on LinkedIn. Neurodiversity Media creates accessible information resources to empower the neurodivergent population to fulfill their potential through the dignity of work. They are a content marketing agency supporting organizations with their content creation about neurodiversity and shaping content about people with disabilities. They publish a newsletter called NeuroWork that you should definitely sign up for! You’ll receive news, views, and resources about neurodiversity at work directly to your inbox. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Kirt Manecke is an award-winning author who has written books on topics such as customer service and sales skills, social-emotional learning, social and career. He’s from Michigan and shares a lot of great local resources to his area if you’re from up there! The book we discuss today is Smile and Succeed for Teens, which as he shares in the episode - Dr. Temple Grandin read it and called him right away to leave a testimonial for this book as a tool for teens and young adults as they enter the workforce and seek employment. These are tangible skills that schools are now incorporating in their curricula. This answers a common concern we have when it comes to a tremendous need for preparation for the realistic aspects of work while in high school. He has helpful chapters on clear expectations in the workplace, volunteering, and running your own business which many young adults are focusing on. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Haley Moss is an autistic advocate, attorney, artist, author, and speaker. She is a leader on disability inclusion, autism, neurodiversity in the workplace, employment policy, accessibility, and lawyers and disabilities. We discuss finding and pursuing your interests, pushing through to your goals, and the importance of finding and listening to autistic self-advocates in the autism space. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

This week we have Julie Hornok on the show! She is an autism parent, advocate, author, and event planner. Her book, United in Autism: Finding Strength Inside the Spectrum shares stories from autism parents/caregivers, and her non-profit plans and facilitates emotional support events for autism parents/caregivers. Being an autism caregiver is truly a unique experience with its own journey, strengths, and challenges. Parents and caregivers of autistic loved ones across the lifespan can also benefit from finding and engaging in the types of groups we discuss - from online to an in-person Special Needs moms retreat that Julie is collaborating with other parents to plan and facilitate. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Friendships can be a challenge to begin and navigate for many teens and young adults on the autism spectrum. Over 61% of teens on the spectrum experience bullying and social isolation, leading to increased mental health challenges, such as depression and suicidal thoughts. As a result, many people have become interested in starting social clubs or meet-ups in their area. (Note: this is a time sensitive issue, and we hope the opportunities to have social experiences in our community will become an option again sometime soon). Our guests this week are from a non-profit organization called Erin’s Hope for Friends, which is on a mission to create lasting relationships through joyful interactions with teens and young adults on the autism spectrum. It was founded by the Horst family, in their daughter’s loving memory. Erin was a teen with Asperger’s who faced many challenges and decided to take her life. They started their first clubhouse in Georgia and have since opened a couple more and are working on expanding their base into Lexington, Kentucky. They have a teen program and are currently building out their young adult program called E’s Essentials to focus on the intersection of life skills through their social programming. The mission of this organization is incredible and has a staff that is passionate about meeting the needs of their participants as they grow up and navigate their teen years with each other and most importantly, not alone. I am so excited for our guests to share more about their programming, connections within the community, and their advice to get started in your community. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Relationships are foundational to working together and making an impact. This is true across the board from coaching with parents to working with businesses to promote neurodiversity in the workplace. And this is a core area that our guest today, Maisie Soetantyo the Founder of Autism Career Pathways, has focused on in her work. We discuss the career screening tool she's created, putting together a major Autism at Work event in her local community, and what she's learned along the way to initiate change in the workplace. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

Housing is a major gap and need in adulthood. This week, I chat with Desiree Kameka, the Director of the Autism Housing Network. They provide information and resources online all about housing - from a network of housing communities, to starting your housing search, to advocacy and policy work in making housing accessible to all. AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support

As we get into adulthood services, there are a variety of options and services that an adult with IDD can opt into. One of those options is day habilitation programming. In this episode, I chat with Joe Spreitzer, the founder of ABLE Adults, a day program located in Stirling, New Jersey. Joe is a former special education teacher who saw a tremendous need for programming for adults with disabilities in his community after working in the schools and with other services. We get into Medicaid service definitions, what the day-to-day programming looks like, and how it's important to promote opportunities for learning - - learning doesn't stop in adulthood! AUTISM GROWN UP COMMUNITY: https://community.autismgrownup.com/ AUTISM GROWN UP INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/autismgrownup/ AUTISM GROWN UP SHOWNOTES: https://www.autismgrownup.com/agupodcast/ AUTISM GROWN UP PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/autismgrownup --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/autism-grown-up-podcast/support