Autism Rocks and Rolls

An extra buddy from Autism Rocks and Rolls is my guest today. This is Radine Smith, a 2024 PhenomeMom Award winner and fellow Hoosier. The city of Indianapolis, Indiana, is where she was born and raised. Since parenting a child with autism, she has been devoted to her family and faith because those are the things she cherishes most. She holds two bachelor's degrees one in architecture and one in interior design.Radine is also a proud graduate of North Central High School. Radine even became the CEO of Rae's Designs by using her degrees. In addition to her passion for cars, she sincerely cares about improving her community. She likes to travel, watch sports, do hairstyles, and spend time together with her children when she has time to herself. Welcome to my show, Radine Smith, a truly remarkable mother.

This episode focuses on the pushiness of people with autism. I discuss why people with autism may be demanding and why it runs in their family.  I also discuss how people with autism may become forceful due to their anxiety and anger management problems. I also explain to the audience the specific behaviors that people with autism may exhibit. I  additionally clarify how people without autism misinterpret pushiness in those with autism. I conclude by sharing my experiences of being overbearing and my thoughts on how to help people with autism become less demanding.

Since I discuss broadcasting in this episode, I take a different turn. I also explains to my audience why a person with autism could succeed in the media industry. I will additionally address whether filming and broadcasting are in two different countries or if both are the same thing. I additionally go over the things that broadcasters need to know before embarking on a project. I will additionally discuss the kinds of content that broadcasters want to air on radio or television since they attract people. Lastly, I link autism to basic broadcasting vocabulary words like segment and cues, to broadcasting instruments used by broadcasters like a video camera and audio mixer, and even to broadcasting project types like vlogs and music videos.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mvqkVFCGmiU https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAd3LYIZMjs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2I0ulTZWXA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HKnX4-vCqQ0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2CHSvCoAaA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbxTZougGfc      

I discuss being aware of and paying attention to your environment in this episode. I also discuss why it is difficult for those with autism to focus on their surroundings. I also describe the elements that increase and decrease awareness in people with autism. Additionally, I indicate when people with autism need to be less alert and more attentive. In addition, I explain to my audience the significance of awareness. I do assist, though, because I provide additional dos and advice on how to help people with autism be alert without being combative, even though I only mention one thing not to do.

Today's guest is Allyson Bowers, an acquaintance of Autism Rocks and Rolls and a Vincennes PBS star. As Vincennes PBS's Education & Community Outreach Coordinator, she loves talking to children about PBS Kids programs, particularly Carl the Collector. In addition, she is the mom of a wonderful 6-year-old with autism who is non-speaking. Mrs. Bowers likes to spend her free time with those she knows at the Vincennes PBS station, her family, and her pets. Welcome to Autism Rocks and Rolls, Mrs. Bowers. allysonbowers@vinu.edu-Mrs. Bowers Email 

My next guest hails from Georgia. He is Avery Dixon, a golden buzzer contestant on Season 17 (2022) of America's Got Talent and a spokesperson against bullying. Saxophonist phenom Avery Dixon rose to fame as a finalist on America's Got Talent and as the show's All-Star runner-up. Among the well-known performers he has been honored to perform with are Grammy Award-winning trombonist Troy Andrews, often known as "Trombone Shorty," and 12-time Grammy Award-winning artist, songwriter, and composer Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds. Despite measuring under a pound, 8 ounces at birth, Avery has surmounted several health obstacles. He has shown himself to be quite resilient and has refused to let his health problems define who he is. Unfortunately, because of his distinctive voice, which set him apart from his friends, he became the target of bullying. Mr. Dixon claims that the bullying was so bad that he once "considered suicide." Avery nevertheless urges anyone who feels depressed or upset to seek therapy. He has also proven his bullies wrong by receiving numerous accolades for his efforts, including a letter of gratitude from former President Obama. Let's welcome my new friend and talented saxophonist, Avery Dixon, to Autism Rocks And Rolls.  https://www.averydixon.com/

Don Morse with Autism Anglers, my next guest, is calling from Orlando. Don has been employed in the outdoor industry since 1994. Don didn't know what autism was until he found out that his child, Landon, had it. Don's friends and relatives were very receptive to hearing it. He knew that fishing may be a very effective therapy for persons of various abilities. Don established his charity, Autism Anglers, in 2018, intending to increase awareness and foster understanding on a larger scale. Since then, more donors have joined, giving additional equipment to fishermen with autism in North America. Autism Anglers also plans to expand its offerings to include charter and guided fishing trips. Let's welcome Mr. Morse to Autism Rocks And Rolls.  https://autismanglers.org/

I discuss grocery shopping along with what it's like for people with autism in this episode. I also talk about how grocery shopping might make people with autism impatient. I also talk about how people with autism like consistency in supermarkets, where products remain in identical aisles for a long time. I also explain what can divert customers with autism and what triggers an auditory overload attack in people with autism at a grocery store. However, I do try to be helpful since I provide strategies for successful and proactive behavior for people with autism when they are in a grocery store. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdowSxss1J4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0UJBqX_fy8&t=30s https://blog.difflearn.com/2014/05/08/teaching-functional-living-skills-to-children-with-autism-at-the-grocery-store/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e40kFH4z65w&t=30s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JowQhIqvz3w

Today, my guest comes from Missouri. At the age of 58, Chris Mitchell, also known as the confident autistic, received a diagnosis of autism l. Instead of allowing autism to define him negatively, Chris chooses to let it define him positively. Despite his lifelong struggle with self-understanding (which began to make sense following his diagnosis), he has succeeded in numerous triumphs. Chris holds several life coaching credentials, with confidence coaching being his favorite. As part of his goal to empower people with autism and others to embrace autism with confidence, Chris, a digital developer, shares films about autism and confidence-building strategies for adults with autism on his YouTube channel, The Confident Autistic. Be sure to give it a listen!  https://thechrismitchell.com/

In this episode, I'm joined by FINancial Sharktress Galit Tsadik, an authentic shark. Taking charge of your finances and offering financial assistance is where Galit's greatest strength lies. She is a reputable financial analyst and the creator of Tsadik G Management, the organization that bears her name. She assists individuals and passion-driven enterprises in overcoming their concerns in order to achieve financial independence as a licensed financial education instructor. Given that Galit is a survivor of domestic abuse, she also resembles a shark. Many people today gain from Galit's identification as a FINancial Sharktress and her spiritual connection! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZRsvbBpBr0G_U2eb-2UGUg https://www.countontgm.com/    

Zak Clayton is the guest for this episode. Zak has a link to autism because he was once a foster parent to a child with autism. But he has a story of his own as the CEO and owner of Clayton Consulting & Event Planning LLC. He also founded Community Pay It Forward after recovering from a motorcycle accident in 2015 that revealed gaps in assistance for those in need. Zak created this service to help NGOs, charitable organizations, veterans, and needy families by converting purchases into acts of kindness through a shop, click, and pick process. Under his leadership, Dare To Care, Zak's second community, provides free access to essential services for neighbors. As he often states, "If you are not helping someone, you are hurting everyone," Zak's actions reflect his belief in the power of community. Let's welcome the powerful and helpful Zak to Autism Rocks And Rolls.  https://www.communitypayitforward.us/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Zio5yGvsTBjB1axYVzXKw

I want to start by wishing you a Merry Christmas, and this episode of Autism Rocks and Rolls is my gift to you. I talk about fishing in this episode and why people with autism spectrum disorders might enjoy it. I also liken autism to the components on a fishing pole and the equipment in a fisherman's tacklebox. I even talk about the different kinds of fishing and how they represent autism. Lastly, I explain the reasons why people with autism spectrum disorders may quit fishing in the middle of a fishing expedition. https://omegaquant.com/new-research-on-the-connection-between-fish-consumption-and-autism/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1-aAdGSsr8 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Ccex2U7LL1Y https://castforkids.org/ https://autismanglers.org/

Today, I'm joined by the amazing Jimmy Clare. In addition to being a professional conference speaker, podcaster, and on-demand streaming host, Jimmy Clare is also an autism advocate because he falls into the autism spectrum. In 2025, he has an event planned out. Welcome to Autism Rocks and Rolls, Jimmy Clare. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crazyfitnessguy-healthy-living-podcast/id1507800194 https://www.crazyfitnessguy.com/  

Sara Bradford, an avid advocate of autism, will be spending the day with me. She is the originator of SJ Childs Global Network, a nonprofit that positively impacts the lives of numerous families. Sara is also the chief executive officer of SJ Childs LLC, a consulting organization that supports families with autism. As a representative of The Autism Council of Utah, Sara remains involved in the autism community. Because her spouse and two children are also autistic, Sara has a unique perspective and a greater understanding of the challenges faced by families with autism. She provides families with useful tools and information as the voice of The SJ Childs Show Podcast and a well-known speaker on autism. Sara continues to improve her area by working with local colleges and hospitals on autism services, police education, and corporate organizations. Finally, Sara is the published author of SJ Childs, a pen name that addresses a range of subjects, such as dyslexia, anxiety, physical differences, and autism. By helping children discover their own identities and supporting those with neurodiverse needs, these books promote love and acceptance in all situations. She now understands autism better after being recently diagnosed with ASD. https://sjchilds.org/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-sj-childs-show/id1559173761

Instead of having one, two, or three friends, I have four with me today. First up is the outstanding Ross Steel. Ross was diagnosed with autism at the age of three after being born in 2003. He has been placed on the honor roll several times and was awarded a sizable college scholarship. He also runs his own Instagram program, Steel Reviewing. I also have a country guy named Caleb Creamens. Born in 2004, Caleb, who is from Washington, Indiana, has cerebral palsy. Like me, he studies broadcasting at Vincennes University. Caleb also likes wrestling, NASCAR, basketball, football, and country music. Next is my close companion, Andie Schroyer. Andie serves as a 21-year-old student studying medical lab science. She does drawings and games in her spare time. She grew up with her cousin, who was diagnosed with Malan syndrome and autism. And last, Maddie Jordan, who is amazing. Maddie was born in December 2001. She currently works as a teacher at Bloomfield Elementary. In addition to being the drummer in the Greene County Community Band, her younger sister is on the autism spectrum, and they are here to give their perspectives on having a friend with autism. Please give these incredible people a warm welcome.

I'm going blue for this episode because I discuss the reasons why people on the autism spectrum are afraid of police enforcement personnel. Additionally, I also talk about how a caretaker can help and improve the circumstances. I also advise parents on how to help their autistic children engage with police enforcement in a courteous and peaceful manner. I also provide law enforcement personnel with supplies like sensory bags, which makes things better. Lastly, I explain what people with autism can do and how law enforcement personnel can work together. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7X1v0RKKH2k https://autismriskmanagement.com/ https://www.bluebridgetraining.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_MTHTO0Ptw    

Today, I am joined by Katie Deckard from Experience VU, who I hold in the highest regard. Since 2022, Katie has been the director of Experience VU at Vincennes University. Katie holds her doctorate in education from the University of Southern Indiana and an undergraduate degree from Indiana University in secondary special education and light interventions. Having spent seven years as a high school teacher, Katie is a passionate supporter of a universal framework for learning. She is currently a mentor for college students with disabillities. Katie loves to spend her free time on the farm with her dog Mabel and her recently married husband Colby. Let's welcome the incredibly sweet Katie Deckard to the podcast. https://www.vinu.edu/experience-vu.html

Join me as I speak about patience. I also discuss the patience level folks on the autism spectrum have. I also give examples of situations in which people with autism could become impatient. Additionally, I describe how parents and children with autism may pass on patience to one another. I even explain why patience is a virtue that should be shared by all people. It doesn't end there since I also provide advice to children and their parents on what to do if they start to lose patience.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JPTWpDiykZQ https://medium.com/@miamiautismdad/how-my-autistic-daughter-taught-me-patience-1b1b2740296b

In this episode, I speak about catastrophizing and what this concept is about. I also tell the parents the statements they should and should not say when those on the autism spectrum catastrophize. I even tell the parents some triggers that make those on the spectrum catastrophize. I as well tell the parents what it is like in our brain when we catastrophize. Finally, I do give some help because I give the parents ideas on how to manage the catastrophic thinking.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yFmqbYqJzvY

Endre Hoffmann, the Doctor of Self-Worth, who is also my sponsor and friend, will approach this episode differently. Endre helps business owners reach their greatest potential and bring about dramatic shifts. He offers support to entrepreneurs who are overworked, exhausted, insecure, and self-conscious. I assist them let go of the conflict so they can achieve confidence and inner serenity. I assist individuals in rediscovering their innate sense of value and authentic leadership. As reported by someone who worked with him: I knew he needed to come on after my session. Please give the proper respect to this man and give Endre a warm welcome to Autism Rocks And Rolls.  https://doctorofselfworth.com/

My fellow professional wrestling friends are in for a treat today as I am accompanied by WWE Hall of Famer Jake The Snake Roberts. Considered by many to be one of the most well-known figures in professional wrestling, Mr. Roberts was well-known for his dark appeal, clever and powerful promos, frequent use of trickery in his matches, and inventive usage of the DDT finisher. His two grandkids have cerebral palsy and autism, which is why he appears on my show. Jake, on the other hand, has a unique story to tell; despite having COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and having experienced drug and child abuse , he continues to live his life. Let's welcome resident snake, Jake The Snake Roberts to Autism Rocks and Rolls.

In this episode, I talk about the nature of humor in people on the autistic spectrum, including the kinds of humor that they find funny and how it might manifest itself in different ways. I also explore the myth that individuals on the spectrum don't find comedy humorous, dispelling it by outlining the motivations for their appreciation of humor. I also discuss the issue of whether it's acceptable to make light of someone who has a disability. I also discuss the problem of people with autism spectrum disorders being thought of as "overly humorous," or "overjoking." I also go into why people on the spectrum can be funny, why they frequently don't think of themselves as funny, and why they prefer to show humor with their body language rather than their words. I wrapped off by talking about how some people find it difficult to grasp humor and provided some recommendations for how people on the spectrum might improve their ability to understand and enjoy jokes and humor. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yw91uUfVP6I https://www.amazon.com/Pranklopedia-Funniest-Grossest-Craziest-Not-Mean/dp/0761189963 https://www.amazon.com/Jokelopedia-Biggest-Best-Silliest-Dumbest/dp/0761142088 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5lX gU9 Wok    

In this episode, I discuss budgeting and money management for people on the autism spectrum. I'll discuss why I find the currency system perplexing and what, in my opinion, the currency system needs to be. I also go into the reasons why a person with autism would, consciously or unconsciously, refuse to even accept payment as an option. I even chat to the parents about this subject since I discuss the need of early intervention. Lastly, even though I explain why it is difficult for people who are on the autism spectrum, I also offer advice on how they might become financially independent.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2szL2h10yA https://autismakron.org/index.php/documents/resources/apps/300-financial-stability-apps/file https://autismakron.org/index.php/documents/resources/apps/300-financial-stability-apps/file

This is something special for each of my listeners because autism advocate Kadin McElwain is here! Kadin is a writer and a college student who wants to raise awareness and acceptance of autism. People underestimated his abilities because of his autism, but he proved everyone wrong with his hard work and supportive parents. Please assist me in extending a warm welcome to Kadin McElwain.

The issue of small talk and the way people on the spectrum view it will be covered in this episode. I also talk about the times I tried to strike up a conversation but failed. I additionally address when and how to engage in small talk. I even speak about the dangers that people on the spectrum face when doing small talk. I do provide advice to the audience on how to become more proficient at small conversation, but he only offers one significant remedy. To find out what that concept is, you will have to listen. https://www.thearticulateautistic.com/how-the-purpose-of-non-autistic-small-talk-can-backfire-terribly-for-people-on-the-spectrum/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYCJ9pvQJhA https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOfbEuaxnok https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hheZ7JfB_vk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SppP05cpw1g https://www.makingsmalltalk.com/

I will discuss proper conduct in this episode and why it can be difficult for someone on the autism spectrum. Additionally, I discuss a few of my illogical behaviors and the situations in which they occurred. I further address enhanced reasoning and what parents can do in the event that their child displays it at an inappropriate time. Finally, I talk about "unrealistic but non-harmful solutions." Throughout my lifetime, I've used this to hear the times I did check this episode out. 

Today's episode features my man, Kevin Lowe. After meeting him online and at Podfest, I knew he needed to be on my platform because Kevin Lowe, a terrific businessman in his thirties, has taken the world by storm. I say I saw him, but he didn't see me. Despite the seemingly insurmountable hurdle of losing his eyesight in 2003, Kevin is enjoying success as a purpose-driven life coach and the engaging host of the acclaimed podcast Grit, Grace, and Inspiration.  https://www.gritgraceinspiration.com/  

This episode will discuss why I do the things I do. I also explain why I keep returning to my show. I additionally offer my audience a behind-the-scenes look as I reveal the benefits my nonprofit provides me. Finally, I discuss the misunderstandings around autism and what individuals should believe about it.

Join me as I go over each season 2 episode of Autism Rocks And Rolls. I tell what a listener can take from each episode and why you should check out season 2. Finally, I give the main message for this season. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rhTtwqwm3M  

I'm here with Dave White, a past podcast sponsor and owner of Great White Smokes, a food truck and caterer business. Mr. White grew up in Solsberry, Indiana, where he was born. He has worked as a cook in the housing hall kitchens at Indiana University and Abell's Nursery. He describes himself as "a country kid with no internet and at best a cordless phone." He loved being outside with his friends, playing in the creek, and spending time in the woods as long as his parents let him.  He began working after graduating from horticultural technology school and continued to work there for the following fifteen years. Throughout the winter, he kept working in kitchens and as a bartender in nightclubs and golf courses. Due to delivery problems, including Down syndrome, his son spent the first 35 days of his child's life in Riley Hospital in 2013. But it didn't stop him from winning the title of best food truck in Indiana in 2021. Please welcome the unselfish one Dave White. https://www.gwsbbq.com/

My new friend Matteo Esposito will be appearing in today's episode. Matteo is an Ontario native who works as a singer/songwriter, set designer, and playwright. His most well-known piece is Sorting It Out, a one-act play about autism. Broadway has shown two of his works. Although because he was bullied, had ten surgeries, and had to go to the doctor constantly, he has had to deal with some tough moments. Despite this, it didn't stop him from going to college and becoming a successful screenwriter for his short YouTube series that will be screened at the upcoming Los Angeles Film Festival. Let's welcome the straightforward and motivating Matteo Esposito to the podcast. https://autismtheaterproject.org/ https://www.anthonytullomusic.com/ matteoesposito@hotmail.com      

This episode's discussion focuses on AuDHD.  ADHD may have an impact on those with autism. If someone possesses the autism and ADHD, I explain how they relate to one another. I even discuss the social impacts of the overlap. I also talk about some of the feelings that persons with AuDHD or ADHD can encounter. I also discuss how wrath or illness can heighten ADHD symptoms in persons with AuDHD or ADHD. On the other hand, when I advise young people and adults with AuDHD or ADHD on how to cope with these abilities, I do reassure families of these conditions that their children may have happy lives. https://integratedlistening.com/blog/autism-adhd-prevalent-males/  

At Clubhouse, I got to meet my friend who is today's guest. His name is Erick Allen, or just EA. EA is a certified counselor for alcohol and drug abuse. His mission in life is to provide mental health and addiction treatment to those in need. He witnessed firsthand the pain his closest relatives endured as a result of alcohol and drug addictions that adversely affected their mental health. He has a great desire to help families because of what his mother taught him. Recently, he published his first book, a journal called Affirmations for Recovery. The goal of this journal is to assist trauma survivors by promoting self-talk exercises. As we welcome the modest EA, to join me.   

Grief and bereavement are the main topics of discussion in this episode. I discuss the incomprehensibility of death and its various aspects. I also address why the pain of unexpected (sudden) and expected (anticipated) losses is greater than that of the other. Being an advocate for mental health, I am aware of the impact sorrow may have on the mental well-being to someone on the autism spectrum. I additionally want to discuss with my listeners other grieving topics that people with autism deal with that don't include dying. I additionally cover how it may impact an c person with autism's cognitive abilities as well as their behavior. Nevertheless, I do assist the parents since I provide advice regarding how to deal with the problem for both parents and children with autism. https://bakken-young.com/sudden-death-vs-anticipated-death-is-one-worse/#:~:text=In%20sudden%20death%2C%20the%20grief,for%20this%20life%20altering%20change

The idea about reading the room will be covered in this episode. Searching for or figuring out a meaning what is implied or concealed rather than one that is stated clearly is the social skill known as "reading the room." I also discuss how those on the autism spectrum find it more difficult to look around the room when we use figurative language and take things literally. I also speak about why it is challenging to do an examination in a public space with millions of people. I also go into why I think this is the most difficult social skill for someone on the autism spectrum to pick up. I do teach people on the spectrum ways to assist themselves, so it's not all a negative episode. https://www.thefemaledatingstrategy.com/forum/dating-relationships/not-being-able-to-read-the-room-isn-t-a-cute-quirk-and-some-notes-on-autism-as-an-excuse-from-me-a-person-on-the-spectrum  

We have Englishwoman Megan Prescott with us on the podcast today. In the Bafta Award-winning British drama "Skins," Megan played Katie Fitch. She's a writer, director, and actor. Following her work on "Skins," Megan is now focusing more on writing and directing. A few of Megan's parts from "The Burning Girls" were directed last summer; Paramount Plus is presently showing the series. The first season of her own podcast, "Really Good Exposure," is currently under development and will be released in the new year. It may surprise you to hear that in December 2021, she was officially diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder after initially being diagnosed with ADHD. That didn't stop her from participating in bodybuilding though. Let's welcome Megan Prescott, a formidable actress, to Autism Rocks and Rolls. https://meganprescott.co/,

In this episode, I discuss the nationwide issue of bullying. I also discuss bullying at work and in schools. I also delve into why people with autism spectrum disorders are an easy target. I even address the "wrong way" certain individuals decide to stop bullying. I also go over the unmistakable indications, retorts, and outcomes of bullying. You shouldn't worry since I do offer guidance on how to deal with bullying to parents as well as children on the autism spectrum. https://www.asisonline.org/security-management-magazine/articles/2017/05/a-brief-history-of-bullying/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tScDrhxf53k https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ768971.pdf http://www.promoteprevent.org/sites/www.promoteprevent.org/files/resources/Bullying%20Prevention%20State%20Laws_2.pdf https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QC-p6gLAXC8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1C8fP1fy9BM

I'll be addressing zoning out and autism shutdowns in this episode. I'll go through the phases of zoning out and explain why it's okay to shut down and zone out. I'll also talk about why stimming—moving—allows us to unwind. I also share with my audience the causes of shutting down or zoning out in people with autism, as well as the triggers for doing so. At last, I describe what parents and individuals with autism spectrum disorders can do in the event of a shutdown. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/RlZLOwCDxhg

The amazing Amberley Snyder is the topic of this episode. Amberley is the second of six children born in California. At the age of seven, Amberley's family relocated to Utah, where she quickly became interested in horses and began barrel racing. She competed in junior rodeo events and kept winning throughout her time in high school. In January 2010, Amberley was involved in a rollover vehicle accident that left her paralyzed from the waist down. She returned to wearing a seatbelt when she rode in a rodeo after eighteen months. In 2018, Netflix released the film Walk Ride Rodeo, that centers on her life. As a keynote speaker, writer, performer, and competitive barrel racer, Amberley shares her story of overcoming hardship in the hopes of motivating others to believe in yourself and get back on the horse. https://amberleysnyder.org/about/

For this episode, I'll be talking to my aunt Debbie. Uncle Mike, my former guest, is proudly married to Aunt Debbie. She will stop at nothing to support me, and she has been there for me from the beginning. Aunt Debbie is on time, just like me, and we find out why. Please tune in to hear my conversation with Aunt Debbie.

Join me as I talk about how game shows helped me when I was young. I also talk about how game show formats helped me feel comfortable. Additionally, I discuss how game shows might assist those with autism in learning to adapt to modifications in their daily lives.  I even go into why I would be both a great and terrible game show host. The main event consists of my analogies between autism and the production of a game show, its host, including the actual game show itself. https://www.gsn.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qa0fg2c7K5A  

On this episode, I speak out about advocating and self-advocacy. I figured since I have had autism advocates on my show, why not talk about my experience? Plus, I give my justification for why speaking up for yourself is not shameful. In fact, I'll explain why it helps you grow as a person. I also let those on the spectrum know about potential allies. I use advocates for autism as one example. Finally, I explain the importance of speaking up so that you can self-advocate and feel successful. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSHx3OUkV40 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R785vm7S1Ck https://autisticadvocacy.org/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vMpSRI-heMo

Today, "The Comeback Coach" Richard Kaufman will be interviewed. After being on his podcast, The Vertical Momentum Resiliency. I knew he would be on.  Richard Kaufman, an army veteran, has struggled with blindness, drug and alcohol addiction, PTSD, blindness, and even homelessness. Numerous individuals have profited from his advice as a coach and author since they undertake their own courageous path through the dark to the light. He recounts his own battle to be successful in both his professional and personal lives through his publication, A Hero's Journey from Darkness to Light. In order for people to find their own path to success and resiliency, he wants to inspire and motivate people by sharing his journey. Please extend a hearty welcome to our newest visitor, Richard Kaufman.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03UvWZ3WVqg&fbclid=IwAR1TasPxHvl-c2sFRr-mXkYk27fvhd2f303P9KZRiRj2rJcbxJiAxBr0JoI https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vertical-momentum-resiliency-podcast/id1554011985

The featured guest on my program is fellow Hoosier Adria Nassim, a supporter of autism. Adria Nassim was born and raised in Floyd County, Indiana. She was diagnosed with a learning disability at age 5, moderate cerebral palsy around the time of birth, and subsequently an autism spectrum disorder around age 20. She is now living in Bloomington, Indiana, and works part-time at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community on the IU Bloomington campus. She gives college students their special lectures on topics including autism and learning disabilities in kids, teens, and young adults. Adria also writes for the Bloom Magazine section that focuses on autism and developmental impairments as well as the quarterly magazine of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (a division of the IIDC). Thomas "Mr. T.," a yellow Labrador member of the Indiana Canine Assistant Network (ICAN) who has been trained to assist persons with autism and other disabilities, is an additional support dog that she has. Welcome to Autism Rocks and Rolls, my intriguing friend.

With regard to the South Carolina Arc, we have two amazing women. Our first guest is the excellent Margie Williamson, who became the executive director of The Arc of South Carolina in April 2012. She previously spent over ten years working in the nonprofit sector. She brings a unique family perspective to her role as executive director at The Arc of South Carolina as the mom of a child with autism. She places a high value on her work with people who have intellectual and developmental challenges. During her initial years of college, she actively worked with children on the autism spectrum, relieving careers and advocating for support. Additionally, we have a successful Director of Outreach Policy. Danni Bloom, who is originally from the Low Country of South Carolina, has lived all across the state of South Carolina but now calls Chapin her home. Danni has been passionate about The Arc's work since her baby boy, currently two years old, was diagnosed with autism in October 2000. She graduated from The Citadel with an MBA and from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor of Social and Behavioral Sciences degree. They take part in the charity event Wings for All in addition to supporting autism. Wings for All is an innovative airport "rehearsal" created for passengers with disabilities, relatives and friends, and aviation experts. The program makes an effort to lessen some of the stress that families who have to travel with a family member who has a developmental disability experience. Help me welcome these amazing ladies to Autism Rocks and Rolls.

Colby Stamport, also referred to as The Autistic Cowboy, is here with me today. Texas-born in January 1996. He was not diagnosed with autism until that he was 17 years old. He is now 27 years old and grew up in a tiny rural community. I'm in Austin, Texas right now. Despite his struggles, he continues to have a career and a good life. Since 2015, he has been producing content in the shape of videos, livestream, etc. Two of Stamport's works were self-published, and the writer is now at work on several others. He also has experience in theater and acting because he studied it for two years at college. Join us in wishing the cowboy with autism a hearty Texas welcome.  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5nGw2jLOhmdfAxtNJG5gVg  

Since Kane, who is in the WWE Hall of Fame class of 2021, is my special guest on this episode, you won't want to miss it. He made his debut in 1995 under the moniker "Isaac Yankem, DDS," which was the title of Jerry Lawler's confidential dentist. Shortly after, he started a feud with Bret Hart. Nevertheless, he became a superstar in 1997 at Badd Blood: In Your House, when he caused the Undertaker to lose to Shawn Michaels by interfering in the first-ever Hell In A Cell Match. He has won the Money In The Bank Ladder match, twice held the Intercontinental Championship and the WWE Championship, and even joined Team Hell No since making his debut. He is currently recognized as the mayor of Knox County, Tennessee. Kane is made clear on my show because each of Kane's personas serves as a model of mental health. Dr. Isaac Yankem was a scary dentist, while Kane was a horror movie extension of infernal fire. The concept and persona of the character were inspired by the evil burning acts that his older half-brother, The Undertaker, did when they were children. Kane participated in a match that was created especially for him and was dubbed the "Inferno Match." Kane appears as a guest on my show as well since, in the opinion of many, he is, outside of his wrestling persona, one of the friendliest people you will ever meet. So to avoid getting chokeslammed, let's all save ourselves and welcome Kane, a.k.a. Mayor Glenn Jacobs, to my podcast.

We'll discuss how somebody with autism makes judgments in this episode. I talk about the explanations for why some people have trouble making decisions. I even go so far as to explain why a person with autism would not be able to respond to a decision. I also discuss whether autistic people make emotional decisions based on emotion or rationality. I will also give parents and people with autism suggestions on making decisions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6RUI0hb5ms https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGdp1esPWFc https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/what-is-pda-menu/what-is-demand-avoidance/

A member of my business associates with ARAR is Armando Bernal. Armando Bernal is a board-certified neurodivergent behavior analyst who works with kids between the ages of 2 and 18. Armando also provides presentations for groups across the nation, counseling on autism, guidance to parents and therapists, and oversight and mentorship to other BCBAs and therapists. In addition, Armando has participated in a variety of collaborations with Vanderbilt University and Suny Empire State University that support the autonomy and self-advocacy of someone with autism. Armando has established the self-advocacy-focused business Autism International consultancy, PLLC, which provides global consultancy and in-home ABA. They also are responsible for the release of the podcast "A Different Path." He aims to broaden the public's awareness and comprehension of autism by speaking engagements and learning from other people with autism. Please join ARAR in giving a warm welcome to Armando! https://www.autismintl.com/  

I discusses the notion of how most autistic people are exploited in this episode. I even speak about some on the autism spectrum cannot see they are getting used even though the signs are right in front of them. I will also discuss dating crimes and potential motivations for a manipulator. I'm not entirely negative, though, I offer  advice for parents and the child with autism as well as warning signals of manipulation. Finally, I advise the parents on what signs of a manipulator to pay attention on.  https://embrace-autism.com/alexithymia-and-autism-guide/ https://arcuk.org.uk/safetynet/examples-of-mate-crime/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7zjQnOSugs&t=4s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uISHlrtSeJ4  

We are focusing on Ryan Steiner, who was highly recommended to me at a previous networking event, as my new guest for this episode. Ryan lives with autism. He is a husband, a parent, an ultramarathon runner, and a supporter of those with disabilities. The vows doctors told  his mother would never come true. Both Ryan and his autistic and cerebral palsy daughter Kala enjoy running. Ryan pushes Kala in a customized racing wheelchair across distances ranging from 5k to 50k (31 miles)! Ryan and Kala are on a mission to encourage and celebrate visibility and inclusion.  I couldn't agree more with him when he says that "everyone deserves to feel like they belong. "Let's all welcome Ryan to Autism Rocks and Rolls.