Autism Quality of Life

In this episode, Dr. Krakovich interviews Boaz & Minerva Santiago, founders of Picasso Einstein! What started out as two parents concerned about the future of their two children has grown into a community supporting the same mission!  Their goal is for individuals with developmental disabilities to obtain meaningful employment by pursuing their passions.  Some call this self-employment.  At Picasso Einstein, they call this the #JobCreators Movement! View the Show Notes & Resources for this Episode: http://www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-29/   Episode 29 is sponsored by the Giving Hope Foundation. https://www.givingfamilyhope.org/   Follow Autism Quality of Life on social media! @autismqol    

In this episode, Dr K. interviews Swathi Chettipally!  Swathi is a mom of three and the host of the Autism Awareness Radio Show.  Swathi founded the jewelry company, Designs by Siri, to help provide meaningful and productive lives for individuals with Autism.  Her tireless efforts to create purpose for her daughter, Siri, are inspiring to families and professionals, alike! View the show notes from this episode, at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-28 Follow Autism Quality of Life on social media and join the Autism Quality of Life Community, today!  @autismqol

In this episode, Dr. K. interviews Harriet Cabelly!  If you are a caregiver, this interview is for you!  Harriet is a social worker and positive psychology coach, as well as a speaker and workshop facilitator who has appeared on ABC and Fox News as a parenting coach.  She counsels people who are going through critical life transitions and losses as they cope and grow beyond their painful circumstances.  Why do some people grow, while others become bitter, suffering in their pain?  Harriet discusses the lessons she learned from "Living Well Despite Adversity", her first book! View the show notes from this episode: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-27

In this episode, Dr. K. interviews Dr. Candace Robick, a transition coach and educational expert!  Candace shares tips, tricks, and advice with the AQOL community, both as a professional, and as a mother who has recently "transitioned" her son into adulthood!  This episode is filled with strategies, resources, and personal stories that are sure to inspire you! For the show notes from this episode, please visit: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-26 Please follow us on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @autismqol

In this episode, Dr. K interviews Thomas Iland!  Tom was diagnosed with Autism at age 13, and has worked hard to achieve many of his goals: full-time employment, driving, living in his own apartment and having a girlfriend.  He is a speaker and is on the Board of Directors for a number of not-for-profit organizations! Tom shares the story behind his Amazon best-selling book, "Come to Life! Your Guide to Self-Discovery".  He also describes BE SAFE The Movie, which uses video modeling to show viewers how to interact with the police in everyday encounters. View the show notes from this episode at: http://www.autismqualityoflife.com/thomas-iland/ Thank you for listening! Please follow Autism Quality of Life, Inc. on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter: @autismqol

In this episode, Dr. K. interviews Ron Sandison!  www.autismqualityoflife.com/ron-sandison Ron is a speaker, author, and consultant, who happens to be on the Autism spectrum.  He works full time in the medical field and is a professor of Theology at Destiny School of Ministry. He speaks at over 70 autism events a year, including over 20 education conferences. Ron is a Board Member of the Art of Autism and an Advisory Board Member of the Autism Society Faith Initiative of Autism Society of America. He has a Master of Divinity from Oral Roberts University. Charisma House published his book, A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice. Biblical Wisdom, on 4/5/16. Tune in to this exciting conversation, as Ron shares his tips, tricks, and life-lessons that are sure to motivate and inspire you to work towards your own goals! Thank you for listening! Please follow Autism Quality of Life, Inc. on Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram: @autismqol    

In this episode, Dr. K. interviews Mallory Griffith, MA, CCC-SLP and Rachel Bédard, Ph.D.! They are clinicians, authors, and consultants who are based out of Fort Collins, Colorado.  Together, they have written: 1) Raising a Child on the Autism Spectrum: Insights from Parents to Parents; and 2) You’ve Got This! The Journey from Middle School to College, As Told by Students on the Autism Spectrum and Their Parents. In this episode, Dr. Rachel and Mallory discuss how to best run therapeutic skills groups for adults with ASD, and the transition into adulthood.  They share their "must-read" book-list, and have exciting ideas for how they plan to innovate the field of Autism services! Learn about Dr. Rachel and Mallory's recommended resources and books, over on their show notes page: www.autismqualityoflife.com/episode-23 Thank you for listening!  Please follow Autism Quality of Life, Inc. on Facebook and Twitter: @autismqol

In this episode, Dr. K interviews Dr. Alisha Griffith!  Dr. Alisha is a trained Mom and Autism/Communication Expert as an Audiologist and Speech-Language Pathologist. She is the mother of Zachary, her bright and extraordinary son, who is on the Autism Spectrum. Zachary inspired Dr. Alisha to write her Amazon Bestseller, Au-mazing Gift: A Journey to Autism Acceptance. Dr. Alisha is also a Maverick for change, a Transformationial Speaker, and a Breakthrough and Ignite Coach and Consultant with a unique method to support anyone who is in a relationship with Autism. Thank you for listening! Please follow Autism Quality of Life, Inc. on Facebook and Twitter: @autismqol

In this episode, Angie Mahoney, M.Ed is interviewed by host, Dr. Teri Krakovich. Angie has developed a 5-Module Curriculum that teaches individuals with Autism life skills and prevocational skills. The program is useful for Middle School and High School students, and adults! The I Can Work! program is a five-module course designed to integrate communication skills with hands-on prevocational training in the areas of job readiness, clerical, retail, food service, and the grocery industry. To view the show notes from this episode, please visit: www.autismqualityoflife.com/i-can-work Follow Autism Quality of Life on Facebook & Twitter! @qol4asd

If I Need Help is a 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization working to reunite those who are lost, disoriented or can’t self-advocate with their loved ones and caregivers. They use QR Code Technology that can be accessed by computer or cell phone to provide help, emergency iD and peace of mind. Learn more about If I Need Help and the resources discussed in this episode, at: http://www.autismqualityoflife.com/if-i-need-help Follow Autism Quality of Life on Facebook & Twitter! @qol4asd  

In this episode, host Dr. Krakovich interviews Kirt Manecke!  Kirt developed the Smile & Succeed for Teens series, which includes Parent and Teacher guides.  His books are excellent in preparing teenagers and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder for finding and succeeding in workplace and relational settings. To view the show notes from this episode, please visit: www.autismqualityoflife.com/affiliate-kirt-manecke Follow the Autism Quality of Life podcast on Social Media! https://www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD/ https://www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD/

Dr. Teri Krakovich interviews Rachelle Vartanian, Founder of Living and Learning, LLC, on this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast!  Rachelle founded a center for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and they specialize in working with teens and young adults!  Living and Learning, LLC offers social and vocational skills programs and employment opportunities for individuals on the spectrum! View the show notes from this episode on the Autism Quality of Life website! www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-rachelle-vartanian Follow us on Social Media! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode, Dr. K. interviews Derek Volk.  Derek is a businessman, Autism advocate, volunteer, philanthropist, softball coach, and author, who resides in Maine with his family.  Derek published Chasing the Rabbit: A Dad’s Life Raising a Son on the Spectrum, and shares his personal experiences raising a son who is on the Autism spectrum. Both Derek, and his son, Dylan, write about the challenges, triumphs and coping strategies from the early days to the adolescent years, to life in the “real world” when Dylan is a young adult. Their book showcases the unique relationship between a father and his son, who has spent his entire life "chasing the rabbit".

This episode is about life-course services for individuals with disabilities, including ASD.  Kylee Hope, Director of the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services (DDRS) of Indiana is interviewed by host, Dr. Teri Krakovich.  Kylee shares about her experiences as Director of DDRS in Indiana, as well as what it is like being a sibling of an adult on the spectrum!

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Dr. Teri Krakovich, interviews Dr. Liz Laugeson!  Dr. Laugeson is a Clinical Associate Professor at UCLA and is the Founder of the PEERS(R) evidence-based social skills intervention for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder!  Having trained thousands of mental health professionals, educators, and families in the PEERS(R) method, Dr. Laugeson is dedicated to developing and testing evidence-based treatments to improve social skills across the lifespan, and disseminating these empirically supported programs across the globe. View the show notes, links, and resources for this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-dr-liz-laugeson Follow Autism Quality of Life on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD Thank you for listening!  

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, Dr. Teri Krakovich interviews John Dickerson, Former Executive Director of the Arc of Indiana!  John shares about the launch of his new startup, Quillo!  Quillo is designed to be used by Direct Support Professionals, managers, and CEOs alike- all who provide care for adults with disabilities!   With a mission of promoting "Better Relationships, Better Lives", Quillo will assist executives and staff in improving company culture and boosting morale, which could lead to increased staff retention and employee engagement! 

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, Dr. Amie Duncan, a clinical psychologist at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, shares about her evidence-based intervention for teaching daily living skills to teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorder!  Each week, transitioning youth learn skills such as laundry and money management, with parent involvement. To view the show notes from this episode, visit us at: www.autismqualityoflife.com Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews James Emmett!  James has a vision to change business and disability communities by helping hundreds of companies to create disability inclusion brands! The James Emmett brand is one of the most recognizable in the field of disability inclusion. James has worked on some of the most visible disability inclusion projects with companies like Walgreens, Best Buy, Office Depot & Office Max, TIAA, PepsiCo, UPS, and Mercy Health. He has also partnered with creative organizations such as Disability Solutions @ Ability Beyond. Follow the Autism Quality of Life podcast on Social Media! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD

On this BONUS episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, Scott Kramer is interviewed to share about GCA’s premier event that will focus solely on adult Autism issues in the Tri-state area of Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama! Scott Kramer is the program director and founder of the GCA Centre for Adult Autism, which is based in the Chattanooga, TN area. GCA, which started in late 2010, runs and facilitates support groups and social events in Tennessee and Georgia, and a monthly social group that meets in the Metro Atlanta, GA area. Scott is an adult on the autism spectrum and is married to his wonderful spouse and life partner, April – and believes that people, regardless of disability, can be successful. Follow Autism Quality of Life on Social Media! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD www.twitter.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Kate Libby, of Libby Creative Arts!  Kate shares about the exciting cooking programs that she offers in New York City for teens and young adults with ASD!  Through her work, Kate fosters socialization and connection-building, while teaching life skills and skills in the kitchen!   To learn more about this episode, visit: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-kate-libby Follow us on Facebook to join the Autism Quality of Life Community! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Tahra Cessna! Tahra is a Florida-based Board Certified Behavior Analyst and is the Clinical Director for Positive Behavior Supports Corp, an agency that serves individuals with disabilities and severe behavioral challenges. Tahra utilizes the principles of positive behavior supports to improve quality of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families! View the show notes from Tahra's episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-tahra-cessna Follow the Autism Quality of Life podcast on Facebook! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD  

Dave Kearon, Director of Adult Services at Autism Speaks, shares valuable programs and resources for transitioning teens and adults with ASD!  This is an episode that you won't want to miss! View the show notes to this episode at:      www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-dave-kearon Join the Autism Quality of Life Community:   www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD Follow us on Twitter & Instagram @QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Elaine Oswald! They discuss the common issues faced by Autism siblings - of all ages! Elaine is a licensed creative arts therapist with a private practice in New York City. She specializes in working with siblings of individuals with autism and other disabilities. She has over 15 years of experience working with youth in foster care settings, families in crisis, and has helped many who have struggled with anxiety, depression and trauma. To view the show notes from this episode, go to: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-elaine-oswald Thank you for listening to today's show! In health and well-being, Teri

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Dr. Lisa Ruble!  Dr. Ruble is a licensed psychologist and clinician-researcher, who has provided training and services to the autism community for more than 25 years!  She has authored more than 50 journal articles and book chapters, and has received over four million dollars in NIH research funding. She, along with her colleague, Dr. John McGrew, from Indianapolis and the Autism Services Research Group, are testing and replicating the effectiveness of a parent-teacher consultation intervention called COMPASS, to improve transition outcomes for teens with ASD! View the show notes for this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-dr-lisa-ruble

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Robert Cox!

 The episode focuses on autism, trauma, and tackling sensory needs using the Life Recovery Method.  There is a large focus on mindfulness! View the show notes for this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-robert-cox Join the AQOL Community!   www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Kelli Higgins and Kathy Darling, of the Autism Society of Indiana. They discuss the latest programs for 2017! You can view the show notes to this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-autism-society-indiana A video of this episode can be viewed on the Autism Quality of Life YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsjSUR8Tii8 Join the AQOL Facebook Community! www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, sits down with Taylor C. Duncan, of Atlanta, to learn more about the Alternative Baseball Organization and their goal of becoming a global name! Taylor Clark Duncan's mission is to bring baseball to individuals with disadvantages and their communities, including those who are diagnosed with Autism. www.facebook.com/officialtaylorcduncan You can view the show notes to this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-taylor-clark-duncan A video of this episode can be viewed on the Autism Quality of Life YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-dDxVuhuWA   Follow us on Facebook and Twitter! @QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Susan Kolb of Life with Joy, Inc.!  Susan and her husband, Gary, developed an innovative program in Andover, New Jersey, for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Susan and Gary Kolb are Arthur’s parents. They celebrate Arthur, who has an Autism diagnosis, and they set no limits on who he can become. They developed Life With Joy, Inc. for Arthur and his friends, so they can continue to learn and grow after age 21 in a safe and joyful environment! To learn more about Susan, her family, and Life with Joy Inc., view her show notes at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-susan-kolb

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Kelly Hartman! Kelly Hartman leads an agency and founded a non-profit. These efforts help more than 400 employees to support more than 1,000 people with a focus on capabilities. Kelly's company, Insights Consulting, provides residential and behavioral services for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Her non-profit organization, Outside the Box, offers a curriculum-based day program, a creative arts studio experience, and customized Employment Services. This AQOL interview with Kelly focuses primarily on Outside the Box! View the show notes for this episode at: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-kelly-hartman This episode is also on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kL2_aAZcqqY&t=973s www.facebook.com/QOL4ASD Twitter: @QOL4ASD

In this episode of the Autism Quality of Life podcast, host, Teri Krakovich, interviews Eric Chessen, of Autism Fitness!  Eric uses Applied Behavior Analysis and Positive Behavior Supports in his work to promote exercise and healthy lifestyles for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder!  Eric is also the Co-Founder of Stronger than U, a unique fitness equipment company.  Eric is an author, consultant, and all around great guy, who is promoting quality of life for teens and adults with Autism! 
 To learn more about Eric and to view his show notes, go to: www.autismqualityoflife.com/podcast-eric-chessen