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The Autism Dad

Rob Gorski
The Autism Dad
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  • Grandparenting on the Autism Spectrum: Support Without Overstepping (S8E21)
    In this powerful conversation, Rob talks with Jennifer Kaufman, educator, and grandmother to an autistic child - about the often overlooked but critical role that grandparents play in the lives of neurodivergent kids. Jennifer shares wisdom from her book Grandparenting on the Spectrum and opens up about navigating her dual role as both a seasoned professional and a grandparent still learning to step back. This episode is a must-listen for parents and grandparents alike who want to create stronger, more supportive relationships without stepping on each other’s toes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why well-meaning grandparents can unintentionally make things harder—and how to fix that The importance of respecting parental boundaries, even when you “know better” How to build meaningful relationships with autistic grandkids (especially from a distance) Why letting go of old expectations can make room for deeper connection Practical advice for grandparents navigating IEPs, meltdowns, and special routines Tips for handling holidays and vacations with neurodivergent kids The most supportive thing a grandparent can say (and what not to say) How Jennifer’s book can help families communicate, collaborate, and grow together About My Guest: Jennifer Kaufman is an educator, former autism school principal, and author of Grandparenting on the Spectrum: A Journey From Both Sides of the Desk. She’s also the proud grandmother of an autistic child and speaks regularly to grandparent groups about inclusion, understanding, and support. Learn more or connect with Jennifer at: https://www.grandparentingonthespectrum.com Facebook: @GrandparentingOnTheSpectrum Find her book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/40W0L2e About Rob: Rob Gorski is a single dad to three amazing autistic sons and the voice behind The Autism Dad blog and podcast. A nationally recognized autism advocate and keynote speaker, Rob has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more. He creates content that supports and validates parents of neurodivergent kids. Learn more at: https://www.theautismdad.com Call to Action: If this episode helped you feel seen, pass it on. Share it with a grandparent, a parent, or anyone helping to raise a neurodivergent child. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and visit: https://www.listen.theautismdad.com for more episodes. You can also support this podcast by checking out our sponsors below. Today’s Sponsors: NeuroProtek® – Brain-supporting flavonoid supplement developed by a Yale-trained neuroinflammation expert. Save 5% with code ROB5 at ⁠https://www.algonot.com. Mightier – Help kids learn emotional regulation through play. Learn more: https://www.mightier.com Use code “theautismdad” for a discount.
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  • What Siblings of Autistic Kids Wish You Knew (S8E20)
    When you’re parenting autistic children or kids with high support needs, it’s easy to wonder how it all impacts their siblings. Do they feel forgotten? Overwhelmed? Lost in the shuffle? In this heartfelt episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with autism mom Amy Kelly and her adult son Danny for a raw, emotional, and hopeful look at the sibling experience—and why it matters more than we often realize. Amy is a powerhouse in the autism community. She’s the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux and a longtime advocate for autism support for families. But this episode isn’t about professional titles—it’s about her lived experience as a mom raising profoundly autistic Annie, while trying to meet the needs of her neurotypical sons, including today’s guest, Danny. Danny brings a sibling’s perspective that every parent needs to hear. He opens up about what it was like growing up with a sister who needed constant care, the unspoken pressures siblings carry, and how he’s now leading a national effort to support siblings like him. Whether you’re parenting autistic children or raising neurodivergent kids of any kind, this episode offers valuable insight, encouragement, and a reminder that every child in your home deserves to feel seen. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What it’s really like growing up with a sibling who has autism or profound disabilities Why siblings may feel isolated, unseen, or forgotten—even in loving homes How parents can better balance attention between neurodivergent and neurotypical kids The lifelong bond between siblings, and how it evolves into adulthood Danny’s work creating resources and community through Devereux’s sibling initiative Practical ways siblings can stay connected and prepare for future caregiving roles How autism reshaped (not ruined) their family in powerful ways Why redefining success and independence is key for autistic individuals Subscribe, Support, and Connect: If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing to The Autism Dad Podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to help more families find this content. You can visit theautismdad.com for articles, resources, and updates—or if you’re interested in sponsoring an episode, get in touch. This episode is sponsored by: Mama Bird – Brain-focused kids’ multivitamins designed by a neurologist mom. Get 20% off your first order at lovemamabird.com/theautismdad. Mightier – Help your child build emotional regulation skills through biofeedback video games. Learn more at mightier.com and use the code "theautismdad22" to save 10%. About Rob Gorski (Host): Rob Gorski is a single dad to three autistic sons and the creator of The Autism Dad blog and podcast. He shares real-life stories, insights, and support for parents raising neurodivergent kids. Rob’s work has been featured by CNN, ABC, BBC, and The Tamron Hall Show. Contact: [email protected] About Amy Kelly: Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM, is the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health and mom to three kids, including her daughter Annie, who has profound autism. Amy is a national advocate for disability support, working with organizations like the Autism Care Network and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Contact: [email protected] About Danny Kelly: Danny Kelly is the older brother of Annie, who has profound autism. He co-chairs Devereux’s Sibling Engagement Committee and serves on the National Family Advisory Board. Danny uses his lived experience to advocate for siblings and inclusive support across the disability community.
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  • Neuroinflammation and Autism: What Every Parent Needs to Know (Part 2) S8E19
    Is your child struggling—and you’re not getting answers from “normal” tests? Hit play. This could change everything. In Part 2 of my powerful conversation with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, we explore how neuroinflammation, mast cell activation, and overlooked biological factors can affect autistic children. We dive into my son Gavin’s journey, how traditional testing failed us, and what we discovered when we looked deeper. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or unsure where to turn next, this episode will give you new hope and direction. Why this matters: Too often, symptoms like gut issues, eczema, or extreme food sensitivity get brushed off. Dr. Theo shares what many pediatricians miss—and how identifying and treating the right things can dramatically improve quality of life for neurodivergent kids. What We Cover: What neuroinflammation means for autistic children How mast cells can impact behavior, speech, and health Why standard labs often miss important clues The difference between food allergies and food sensitivities What to test for—and how those tests can uncover treatable issues Gavin’s personal health journey and the lessons we’ve learned How to support your child without trying to change who they are Why we need real research, not empty promises Sponsor: Mama Bird Mama Bird Kids Multi+ is brain-focused nutrition for neurodivergent kids. Designed by a neurologist and autism mom, these supplements support focus, mood, and learning—without sugar alcohols or artificial dyes. Available in liquid (ages 1+) and gummy (ages 4+). Get 20% off your first order at lovemamabird.com/theautismdad Mightier helps kids learn emotional regulation through fun, biofeedback-powered games. Developed by clinicians at Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Mightier is a screen-based program that teaches kids to stay calm under pressure—while they play. USe the code "theautismdad20" to save 10% Learn more by visiting https://theautismdad.com/mightier Enjoying the podcast? Please follow or subscribe so you never miss an episode. For more support, visit theautismdad.com, where you’ll find expert interviews, honest parenting stories, and trusted resources to help your family thrive. Guest Bio: Dr. Theoharis Theoharides Dr. Theo is a renowned physician-scientist and expert on mast cells, allergies, and neuroinflammation. With decades of research and hundreds of publications, he helps families uncover treatable biological conditions often missed in traditional autism care. Learn more at drtheo.com and algonot.com. Host Bio: Rob Gorski Rob Gorski is the father of three autistic children and the creator of The Autism Dad blog and podcast. He’s been sharing his family’s 25-year autism journey to help other parents feel seen, supported, and empowered. Rob’s work has been featured by CNN, ABC News, BBC, and more.
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  • Neuroinflammation and Autism: What Every Parent Needs to Know (Part 1) (S8E18)
    Could neuroinflammation be driving your child’s symptoms? This episode will change how you think about autism and health. In this two-part series of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts in neuroimmune medicine and mast cell research. We dig deep into how inflammation in the brain—driven by overactive mast cells—can contribute to the struggles many autistic and neurodivergent kids face, including sensory issues, eczema, gut problems, chronic sinus issues, and even regression. Dr. Theo doesn’t just talk theory—he shares actionable steps and science-backed insights that have the potential to improve quality of life for families like ours. I even share some personal stories about my sons, and how this research explains things we’ve experienced for years. Whether your child is dealing with eczema, unexplained aggression, or GI issues, this episode may offer a new lens on what’s going on under the surface—and what you can do about it. In this episode, we discuss: What mast cells are and how they can impact the brain How neuroinflammation may be linked to autism, ADHD, and chronic conditions The surprising connection between eczema and autism Why symptoms like gut issues and behavior changes are often misunderstood The role of vitamin D, folinic acid, and glutathione in autism support How stress can trigger mast cell activation and impact behavior What testing and natural interventions parents can explore How to think critically about supplements and avoid misleading claims This episode is sponsored by Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides medically necessary, insurance-covered safety beds that help neurodivergent children sleep safely and securely—at home or while traveling. They’ve just launched the Safe Place 300, a permanent safety bed option with integrated monitoring. Visit https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad to learn more. If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app. You can also visit listen.theautismdad.com for more episodes, resources, and to leave feedback.
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  • Real Talk: Parenting a Child with Down Syndrome (S8E17)
    Episode Summary: In this powerful and deeply human episode of The Autism Dad Podcast, I sit down with husband-and-wife team Jeremy Dyen and Dr. Mika Gupta, co-founders of Mama Bird, to explore the emotional and transformative journey of parenting a child with Down syndrome. We talk about: Navigating a life-changing diagnosis Finding purpose in unexpected places Supporting your child’s unique needs without losing yourself in the process How their personal journey led to creating brain-focused supplements for kids and families Whether you’re parenting a child with a disability or looking for inspiration from parents who truly get it, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. Topics Covered: Birth and diagnosis stories NICU experiences and emotional aftermath Early intervention and the Family Hope Center How Down syndrome changed their worldview Building Mama Bird from lived experience The importance of brain health and nutrition Parenting tips, mindset shifts, and daily struggles Advice for newly diagnosed families This Week’s Sponsors: Autism 360 The Autism 360 program helps parents become confident leaders in their child’s care by providing expert-led coaching and support. Learn more at ⁠autism360.com Safe Place Bedding Safe Place Bedding provides medical-grade, customizable, and insurance-covered sleep solutions for children with disabilities. Their new permanent bed model, the SPB 300, includes a built-in monitoring system. Learn more at ⁠https://safeplacebedding.com/theautismdad⁠ Mightier Mightier is a biofeedback-based gaming platform that helps kids learn emotional regulation skills through fun, engaging play. It’s clinically tested and loved by families. Learn how it can support your child at ⁠https://theautismdad.com/mightier⁠ (Use the code theautismdad20 and save 10%) Guest Bios: Dr. Mika Gupta is a board-certified neurologist, autism mom, and co-founder of Mama Bird, a company creating brain-first vitamins and supplements for children and families. Her personal journey raising a child with Down syndrome deeply informs her professional mission. Jeremy Dyen is a musician, dad, and co-founder of Mama Bird. With a background in mindfulness and creative arts, Jeremy brings a unique and compassionate perspective to parenting and product development. Connect with Mama Bird: Visit lovemamabird.com to learn more about their brain-focused supplements for kids and families. Follow The Autism Dad: Instagram Facebook Podcast Website Support the show: If you found value in today’s conversation, please share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast app.
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About The Autism Dad

Welcome to "The Autism Dad" podcast, hosted by Rob Gorski — a single father to three remarkable autistic children and the voice behind a widely-read blog that has been a lifeline for parents since 2010. With over a decade of firsthand experience, Rob's insights have not only impacted families worldwide but have also been featured on platforms like The Tamron Hall Show, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, CNN, and Entrepreneur Magazine. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for fresh episodes that delve into the complex world of autism and special needs parenting. This podcast serves as a safe haven, offering a blend of personal stories, expert interviews, and actionable advice. Whether you're a parent navigating the nuanced challenges of raising a neurodivergent child or simply someone looking to better understand the realm of autism, "The Autism Dad" podcast provides understanding, support, and education for all. Don't go this journey alone; tune in and become part of a community committed to awareness, acceptance, and growth.
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