The Understanding Autism Podcast

Season 2 Episode 31: Interview With Jen Wilger of the Temple Grandin School

Transitioning from high school to career or college can be challenging to those on the spectrum. In this episode, we interview Jen Wilger of the Temple Grandin School in Boulder, Colorado about the programs and practices the school offers to help students be successful in this important transition.

Season 2 Episode 30: Transitioning to Living Alone

Moving out of the house can be overwhelming and scary for the autistic adult as well as for parents and caregivers. In this episode we explore different therapeutic therapies and philosophies that can help us understand the anxiety, mindsets, and mental struggles that both autistic adults and caregivers experience during this difficult transition.

Season 2 Episode 29: Moving Out and Communicating With Those in Your Residence

The transition from living with parents to having your own place comes with a lot of challenges. One area that does not get a lot of attention for those on the spectrum, is how to communicate with your neighbors, your roommate, your landlord and others in your new home. In this episode we explore the sometimes tricky and complex world of human communication for renters.

Season 2 Episode 28: Interview with Erin Gaskins of Room Redefined

As part of our series on building life skills for independence, Erin Gaskins founder of Room Redefined, shares how she helps her neurodiverse clients organize their space according to their unique needs and goals. 

Season 2 Episode 27: Practicing Life Skills and Routines

The road to adult independence for our autistic children does not have to start when they are 18 years old. To make this challenging transition easier, teaching our children life skills that they will need when they are adults should begin at an early age. In this episode we explore ways in which parents and schools can help prepare those on the spectrum for living on their own.

Season 2 Episode 26: Parenting Autistic Children in Their Journey Towards Independence

Parenting an autistic child is never easy. Is loving our child enough or is there more to raising a capable child? In the first part of this two part episode, we interview Lori Thayer, wife of co-host Bret Thayer on her thoughts and advice about raising an autistic step-son. Next, we interview Dr. Deborah Winking, author of Raising Capable Kids on her new book and advice that she has for parents in supporting, encouraging, and empowering our children to be capable. 

Season 2 Episode 25: Parent's & School's Role In Adult Independence

Helping our children to become independent adults can be a challenge for any parent. How we support and communicate with our child about their independence journey can make all the difference. In this episode, we look at different ways of thinking and communicating about independence and we examine a school transition plan, assessments and resources. 

Season 2 Episode 24: Interview with Gail Suitor of Ignite Change Makers

Our first guest of the second season, Gail Suitor, founder of Ignite Change Makers, talks about her dedication in supporting educators, students and families in finding innovative ways to educate and support neurodiverse students and adults.

Season 2 Episode 23: Creating An Adult Independence Plan

Transitions can be scary. For those on the spectrum, making the transition from living with parents to being on their own can be an intimidating process. But every successful long term goal comes with a plan of action. In this episode, we explore what a ten year adult independence plan can look like for an young autistic adult and the roles that parents can play in this process.

Understanding Autism Podcast Season 2 Trailer

We can't believe that Season 2 of the Understanding Autism Podcast is actually right around the corner! Here we explain our focus for Season 2 and some guests and content that we are excited to share with our audience.