Podcast
The Autism Dad
Hosted by Rob Gorski · EN
The Autism Dad podcast delivers autism parenting support, special needs advice, and real stories for families raising neurodivergent kids.
Hosted by Rob Gorski — a single father to three autistic children and the voice behind the widely-read TheAutismDad.com blog (a lifeline for parents since 2009) — each episode offers honest insight into autism, ADHD, sensory needs, and special needs parenting. Rob's work has been featured on The Tamron Hall Show, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, CNN, and Entrepreneur Magazine. New episodes drop every Wednesday, mixing personal stories, expert interviews, and actionable advice for autism moms, autism dads, caregivers, educators, and anyone supporting a neurodivergent child.
Whether you're newly navigating an autism diagnosis or years into the journey, The Autism Dad podcast provides understanding, community, and education. Don't go this journey alone — tune in for a community committed to awareness, acceptance, and growth.
35episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Autism, Anxiety & Adulthood: My Son’s Journey to Independence (S7E39)
Oct 30, 202400:17:52Tap to summarizeEpisode Summary:In this heartfelt episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski reconnects with his 18-year-old autistic son, Elliott, who co-hosts to share life updates and a peek into his creative journey. Rob and Elliott discuss the challenges of transitioning into adulthood, managing anxiety, and handling societal expectations like driving. Elliott opens up about the pressures he faces as he finds his path, and together they explore his unique strengths and accomplishments.Tune in to hear Rob and Elliott’s inspiring conversation and subscribe for more insightful episodes on parenting, autism, and family!Key Highlights:- Elliott’s Creative Venture: Learn about Autistic Eyes, Elliott’s digital photography business, where he shares his distinctive view of the world through his art.- Transition to Adulthood: Elliott candidly discusses the pressures of adult responsibilities, including his choice not to drive due to anxiety.- Managing Anxiety and ADHD: Rob and Elliott talk about navigating anxiety, understanding ADHD, and using coping mechanisms to improve mental health.- Movie Review of Wild Robot: Hear Elliott’s thoughts on Wild Robot, now his favorite movie, and why its wholesome storytelling resonated with him.- Support Elliott’s Work: Find out where you can follow Elliott on social media and support his photography store.Links Mentioned:- Autistic Eyes Photo Store- Follow Elliott on Instagram and Facebook- Connect with Rob: theautismdad.comTakeaway:This episode captures the journey of a father and son navigating life’s transitions, celebrating individual growth, and fostering creativity. Perfect for parents, young adults, and anyone who values open discussions on autism, mental health, and family life.Today's Sponsors:Dani PlanIntroducing Dani Plan, an innovative online tool for organizing and managing care for individuals with special needs. Created by Joel and Debbie Pearlman, this platform lets you securely store medical details, daily routines, and emergency contacts in one place, making care transitions seamless. Try it free for 14 days, and use code "theautismdad" to save 25% on your first year at daniplan.com/theautismdad.
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Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Anthony Pacillio (S7E38)
Oct 23, 202400:45:08Tap to summarizeEpisode Summary:In this insightful episode, Rob Gorski speaks with Anthony Pacillio, Vice President of Neurodiverse Solutions at CAI, about the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face when entering the workforce. Anthony shares his journey of building neurodiversity programs, his personal experiences as someone with social anxiety and depression, and how these have fueled his passion for helping others succeed in employment.Rob and Anthony dive deep into critical topics, including how companies can create supportive environments for neurodivergent employees, the importance of early preparation, and the need for strength-based approaches in both education and the workplace. They also discuss the "cliff" many neurodivergent individuals face when they age out of school-based services and transition into adulthood. Rob shares his personal experience helping his son navigate employment, offering valuable insights for parents raising autistic and neurodivergent children.Key Takeaways: - Creating Neurodiverse Work Environments: Anthony explains how companies can build effective neurodiversity programs that not only provide opportunities but also support individuals through personalized accommodations.- The Importance of Early Preparation: Both Rob and Anthony stress the importance of starting employment preparation early, teaching skills and building confidence throughout childhood and adolescence.- Overcoming Barriers to Employment: Anthony highlights the success stories of neurodivergent individuals thriving in various industries, from software engineering to healthcare.- Personal Growth and Advocacy: Anthony and Rob share their personal journeys—how understanding their own neurodivergence has shaped their perspectives as parents and advocates.Resources Mentioned: - CAI Neurodiverse Solutions: [cai.io](https://cai.io) - Autism Society of America - Ohio's Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) program Connect with Anthony Pacillio: Website: cai.ioFollow Rob Gorski: Website: https://www.theautismdad.comInstagram: @TheAutismDadThis Weeks SponsorsDani PlanIntroducing Dani Plan, an innovative online tool for organizing and managing care for individuals with special needs. Created by Joel and Debbie Pearlman, this platform lets you securely store medical details, daily routines, and emergency contacts in one place, making care transitions seamless. Try it free for 14 days, and use code "theautismdad" to save 25% on your first year at daniplan.com/theautismdad.Autism 360Autism 360 is a neuro-affirming app for parents of autistic children, offering 24/7 expert guidance, personalized plans, and practical support for daily challenges. Trusted by thousands, it provides affordable, real-time help. Use the code “theautismdad” to save 10%Autism 360Learn More: MightierMightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.
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Understanding ADHD with Dr. Robert Melillo (S7E37)
Oct 17, 202400:53:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Rob Gorski dives deep into the neurological world of ADHD and autism with expert guest Dr. Robert Melillo. Dr. Melillo is a renowned clinician, researcher, and author with over 30 years of experience in developmental functional neurology. Best known for his book Disconnected Kids, he specializes in helping children with ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and other neurological disorders.Key Topics Discussed:- The real causes behind ADHD and autism- Understanding the difference between different types of ADHD (inattentive, hyperactive, and combined)- How functional disconnection in the brain impacts neurological development- The role of primitive reflexes in autism and ADHD- Cutting-edge treatments for ADHD and autism beyond medication, including neuroplasticity, brain balancing, and functional neurology- Debunking common misconceptions about ADHD and laziness- Practical ways parents can help their kids with ADHD and autismKey Quotes:- "ADHD and autism are not just biochemical issues. They're functional problems in the brain that can be corrected." – Dr. Robert Melillo- "It's not about changing who you are. It's about becoming the best version of yourself by addressing the neurological imbalances." – Dr. Robert MelilloResources Mentioned:Dr. Robert Melillo's book: Disconnected KidsDr. Robert Melillo's Website: https://www.drrobertmelillo.comFollow Dr. Melillo on Instagram: @drrobertmelilloThis Weeks Sponsors:Dani PlanIntroducing Dani Plan, an innovative online tool for organizing and managing care for individuals with special needs. Created by Joel and Debbie Pearlman, this platform lets you securely store medical details, daily routines, and emergency contacts in one place, making care transitions seamless. Try it free for 14 days, and use code "theautismdad" to save 25% on your first year at daniplan.com/theautismdad.GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.
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Navigating Autism as a Dad: Joel Pearlman’s Journey (S7E36)
Oct 10, 202400:34:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, Rob Gorski speaks with Joel Pearlman, father to a non-verbal autistic daughter, Danielle. Joel opens up about the emotional challenges of receiving an autism diagnosis, navigating fatherhood, and his family’s journey of acceptance. He shares how he and his wife created the Dani Plan, a digital tool to help parents document essential care information for their special needs child.Key Takeaways:- Joel shares the early signs of Danielle’s autism and how they came to terms with the diagnosis.- The emotional toll and the process of accepting life with an autistic child.- How Joel and his wife developed the Dani Plan to organize care details for Danielle, helping other parents find peace of mind.- Advice for fathers struggling with the pressure to "fix" things when raising a special needs child.- Danielle’s progress today as a sweet, easygoing adult despite early challenges.Learn More:- Discover the Dani Plan at https://www.daniplan.comAbout Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski is a renowned autism advocate, blogger, and podcaster known as The Autism Dad. With over a decade of experience raising three autistic children, Rob’s mission is to provide support, education, and validation to parents of children with autism and other special needs. Through his blog and podcast, Rob shares personal stories, interviews with experts and other parents, and practical advice to help families navigate the challenges of autism. Rob has been featured on major media outlets, including CNN and BBC Worldwide.About Joel Pearlman:Joel Pearlman is a devoted husband and father from Michigan. As the father of three children, including his 24-year-old daughter, Danielle, who is non-verbal and has autism, Joel understands the unique challenges of parenting a child with special needs. Together with his wife, Debbie, Joel co-created the Dani Plan, a comprehensive digital platform designed to help parents document and organize the essential care details for their special needs child. Joel is passionate about empowering other parents to feel prepared and confident as they navigate their child’s future.This Weeks Sponsors:Autism 360Autism 360 is a neuro-affirming app for parents of autistic children, offering 24/7 expert guidance, personalized plans, and practical support for daily challenges. Trusted by thousands, it provides affordable, real-time help. Use the code “theautismdad” to save 10%Autism 360GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.
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One Autism Dad’s Journey Towards Acceptance (S7E35)
Oct 2, 202400:34:57Tap to summarizeIn this week's episode, Rob Gorski sits down with Shaun Hampton, a father of two autistic boys, to discuss his parenting journey, the emotional rollercoaster of diagnosis, and the ways his family has navigated life with autism. Shaun shares insights into the diagnostic process, the challenges of acceptance, and how his family has turned their experiences into opportunities for advocacy and awareness.Key Takeaways:• Shaun's Story: Shaun opens up about raising three children, two of whom are autistic. His youngest was diagnosed at age two, while his older son received an autism diagnosis at 14 after years of being misdiagnosed with ADHD.• Navigating the Diagnostic Process: Shaun reflects on the hurdles families face when seeking a diagnosis. He shares how their experiences differed between his sons due to waitlists and changing awareness over the years.• The Emotional Journey of Acceptance: Shaun describes the difficult emotional process of coming to terms with his children's diagnoses. He speaks candidly about his initial resistance, the grieving process for the future he envisioned, and how his perspective shifted thanks to his wife's unwavering strength.• Fostering Inclusion and Community: Shaun highlights the importance of pushing for inclusion, both at home and in the school system. He shares stories about how his sons have thrived with the support of inclusive programs like Special Olympics and unified sports teams.• Creating Change through Advocacy: Shaun and his wife didn’t stop at raising awareness within their community—they took action. Shaun discusses the founding of Ride for Autism Awareness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising autism awareness through events like motorcycle rides and off-road vehicle rallies. What started as a family initiative has grown into a powerful force for autism advocacy across multiple states.About Ride for Autism Awareness:Shaun’s nonprofit, Ride for Autism Awareness, hosts events like motorcycle rides and off-road vehicle rallies to raise awareness for autism and support families in their local community. The organization donates to schools, funds inclusive programs, and builds Picture Communication Boards to help nonverbal children communicate.Get Involved:To learn more about Ride for Autism Awareness or to participate in an event, visit their website at rideforautismawareness.org. You can also follow them on social media using the hashtag #Ride4AA.Connect with The Autism Dad:For more from Rob Gorski and to stay updated on upcoming podcast episodes, visit theautismdad.com or follow on social media.Support the Podcast:If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Sharing with friends and family is also a great way to support the show.This Weeks SponsorsLearn More: GrokkoliHey parents! Is your child struggling with math? Meet Grokkoli, an AI tutor that helps kids progress multiple grade levels in months. Grokkoli identifies where your child struggles, meets them at their level, and is effective even for kids with learning disabilities, ensuring they get the support they need.Currently supporting K-5 math, Grokkoli is expanding to grow with your child, making it a great alternative to human tutors at a lower cost.Try Grokkoli free for 7 days! Visit grokkoli.com and use code “theautismdad” for 50% off your first month.Learn More: MightierMightier helps kids self-regulate emotionally through biofeedback-based video games. Learn more and get a discount at Visit Mightier. Use code “theautismdad22” to save 10%.
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