Podcast
Embracing Autism
Hosted by Lia & Matt McCabe · EN
Your child is autistic, now what? Parenting a child is often rewarding, but for parents of autistic children, it can be a struggle when communication, finances, or behavior is a barrier. Join hosts Lia & Matt McCabe, an Autistic & ADHD couple raising two autistic daughters and the founders of the charity project AutismWish, in weekly discussions to provide parents with guidance, tips, resources, and a newfound perspective on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Each week we will share our experience raising special needs children and tackle difficult or taboo subjects in the Autism world with encouragement and guidance on how to broaden your perspective while learning to understand and empathize with your autistic child, from weathering the storm to Embracing Autism. Learn more at www.autismwish.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube @AutismWish.
Disclaimer: We are not doctors or therapists, so please always consult with your child's physician before taking any of our advice. We try our absolute best to get everything right but we are only human, so please make sure to consult with an expert. If you feel anything has been misrepresented or inaccurate, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at podcast@autismwish.org.
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
EP 760 – Living in the Present
Dec 27, 202400:27:31Tap to summarizeIn today’s episode, we’re wrapping up 2024 by reflecting on some changes ahead for both our family and AutismWish. We’ll also talk about living in the present and cherishing every moment with our youngest, as we keep a close eye on her development. Plus, we’ll share how having two older kids diagnosed with autism has shaped our approach this time around. Support our mission, Become a Member today: patreon.com/autismwish
Transcribe →Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Mitch Leppicello
Dec 20, 202400:30:46Tap to summarizeDid you know that autistic individuals are 5 to 7 times more likely to attempt suicide than their neurotypical peers? As we approach the holidays, a time where depression and suicide rates spike, we would like to shed light on this important topic as we welcome Mitch Leppicello, to discuss the difficult yet necessary topic. Mitch is a clinical social worker with 35 years of experience working with autistic and neurodiverse individuals of all ages. Over the years, Mitch has presented to and consulted with schools, clinics, and centers, offering strategies and tools to support parents and caregivers in their vital yet challenging roles. Website: www.asdparentingjourney.com
Transcribe →EP 759 – A Blue Christmas
Dec 13, 202400:33:03Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt Christmas episode, we reflect on the bittersweet emotions of the holidays as we honor the memory of our children’s late grandfather, whose birthday was on Christmas Day. We share how we balance grief and joy by teaching our kids about his legacy, creating meaningful traditions, and embracing moments of self-care. Join us as we explore ways to navigate the season while making space for both sorrow and celebration. Support our mission, become a member today: patreon.com/autismwish
Transcribe →Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Dr. Matt Zakreski
Dec 6, 202400:37:07Tap to summarizeTune in as we sit down with Dr. Matt on the topic of 2e/twice exceptional kiddos. Dr. Matt Zakreski, PsyD., is a dynamic speaker and clinical psychologist specializing in gifted and neurodivergent individuals. With over 400 presentations worldwide on stages and podcasts, he shares insights on supporting neurodivergent individuals in every aspect of life—from school to college to the workplace. He is passionate about making knowledge of the brain, human behavior, and clinical psychology accessible and practical to help people improve their lives. Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/ Podcast: Nerding Out on Neurodiversity Book: Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World - Available on Amazon
Transcribe →EP 758 – Giving Thanks
Nov 29, 202400:30:12Tap to summarizeToday we explore how to celebrate gratitude in ways that resonate with autistic children. From sensory-friendly activities to simple, meaningful routines, we’ll share how we create unique ways to teach and experience gratitude with our children. Support our mission, become a member today: patreon.com/autismwish
Transcribe →Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Dr. Alex Klein
Nov 22, 202400:32:21Tap to summarizeToday we have the honor of introducing Dr. Alex Klein, PsyD on the topic of pathological demand avoidance (PDA) in autism. Dr. Alex is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in parenting as well as assessing neurodivergent adults and children. He currently runs a private practice in Oakland, California where he does counseling with individual adults, couples, and parents, as well as evaluating adults and children for autism, ADHD, and other forms of neurodivergence. His primary interests include neurodiversity-affirming care, parenting challenging children, PDA, social justice, trauma, education, and advocating for the rights of children. Dr. Klein also uses his experience as a former teacher and school-based therapist to advocate in school districts for more appropriate learning environments for challenging students. Website: www.dralexklein.com
Transcribe →EP 757 – Running on Fumes
Nov 15, 202400:31:20Tap to summarizeTune in as we expose the raw reality of the intense exhaustion of parenting an autistic child that can feel all-consuming. We dive into the common experiences of feeling overwhelmed, depleted, and "running on fumes," with a reminder that it's okay to simply be present with your child without trying to immediately strategize. Support our mission, become a member today: patreon.com/autismwish
Transcribe →Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Adam Abramowitz
Nov 8, 202400:30:55Tap to summarizeToday we’re happy to connect with Estates, Trusts, and Probate Attorney Adam Abramowitz. A sincere desire to help people protect their loved ones inspired Adam to focus his legal career on estate planning. He believes estate planning is an ongoing, lifelong process and he works with clients to see how each decision they make will fit into the overall picture of their long-term plan and goals. Adam is dedicated to assisting clients with all aspects of estate and trust planning, including the use of trusts for the next generation, charitable gift planning, special needs planning, disability coverage and estate and trust administration. Website: www.steinsperling.com Facebook @Steinsperling
Transcribe →EP 756 – A Boo-tiful Halloween
Nov 1, 202400:26:41Tap to summarizeIn this Halloween-themed episode, we’re excited to share practical tips for creating a fun, sensory-friendly Halloween experience for autistic kids, and a special guest appearance from the newest member of our family! We’ll also talk about how Halloween might look a little different this year as we embrace these changes. Support our mission, become a member today: patreon.com/autismwish
Transcribe →Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Amy McCoy [Sponsored]
Oct 25, 202400:27:17Tap to summarizeToday we sit down and chat with Amy McCoy, an autism parent, award winning children’s author, and disability educator. Her debut children’s novel, Little Big Sister, shares the sibling perspective of growing up with a brother who has autism. Amy combines her expertise as a former elementary school teacher with her experience of parenting a child with autism as she visits elementary schools, libraries, bookstores, and parenting groups offering interactive presentations highlighting disability acceptance. Amy lives in New York with her husband, Greg, and their children, Matthew and Kathryn, who are the inspiration for her books and her work. Follow Amy on Facebook @AmyMcCoyChildrensAuthor and Instagram @amymccoyauthor Snag your copy of her book at www.littlebigsisterbook.com This episode is sponsored by Little Big Sister and Amy McCoy.
Transcribe →