How One Football Kicker with Asperger’s Excelled
For Rogers High School Senior Rhett Powers, who has Asperger's syndrome, place kicking came naturally. Now, he is showing his skills on the football field!
2017 in Review, Part 1: Inspiration for the Neurodiverse | EDB 109
(10 mins) In part one of a special two part episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. presents a handful of the great neurodiverse guests the show has had in 2017, including Dr. Temple Grandin, Dr. Stephen Shore, David A. Grant, Jessica Thom, and more!
Neurodiversity and Fitness: Working the C.O.R.E of Different Brains
Steven Dinnen profiles C.O.R.E., a rehabilitation studio specializing in Spinal Cord Injury, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Parkinson’s disease, and many other neurodiverse conditions.
Neurodiverse Working Relationships, with Christina Nicolaidis, MD, MPH and Dora Raymaker, Ph.D. of AASPIRE | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 30
(39 mins) In this episode, Kate and Becca welcome guests Christina Nicolaidis, MD, MPH and Dora Raymaker, PhD, co-directors of the Academic Autistic Spectrum Partnership in Research and Education (AASPIRE).
Country Singer Naomi Judd on Battling Depression – Week in Neurodiversity (12/16/17)
(3 mins 31 sec) In this episode, a teen with Down syndrome celebrates his birthday by being a firefighter for a day, country singer Naomi Judd discusses her history with depression, and a 9-yr-old boy makes a video for his peers describing life on the autism spectrum! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Fashionista Uses Social Media to Open Up About Bipolar
Fashion blogger and founder of Ban.do Jen Gotch, made an honest announcement to her fans through social media about her mental health.
Best of 2017: Autism and Employment, with Dr. Temple Grandin
(15 mins) To highlight some of the best Exploring Different Brains interviews of 2017, we are revisiting our discussion with the great Dr. Temple Grandin on autism and employment.
PLASTIC: The Brain, Cerebral Palsy, and Neuroplasticity
Laura Shapiro Kramer discusses how her experience raising a son with cerebral palsy led to a new understanding of early brain development.
Will Video Games Be Prescribed For ADHD?
Boston-based company plans to file for FDA approval next year for a videogame that has proven effective for children with ADHD.
The Bill Gates Mission to Fight Alzheimer’s – Week in Neurodiversity (12/9/17)
(3 mins 45 sec) In this episode, Bill Gates offers $50 million for Alzheimer’s research, BuzzFeed explores life with schizophrenia, and a young woman is the first with Down syndrome to enter a Miss USA State Pageant! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Changing the Employment Landscape for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum
Jackie M. Marquette Ph.D. details the Connective Interdependent Employment model, and explains how it can be help people with autism find a job they can excel at.
Building the Foundations of Learning, with Bob Sornson, Ph.D. | EDB 108
(25 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Bob Sornson, Ph.D.. Bob is a best-selling author, the founder of the Early Learning Foundation, and is a former classroom teacher and school administrator.
Nickelodeon Dubs Soccer Player with Down Syndrome ‘Legend’
The 2017 Nickelodeon Kids Choice Sports Awards presented Marc Reichler-Stillhard with the ‘Honorary Local Legend’ award for a competitive spirit that goes beyond the playing field.
Storytelling and Autism, with Jodi Murphy of Geek Club Books | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 29
(36 mins) In this episode, Kate and Becca welcome guest Jodi Murphy, a proud mom to an adult son on the autism spectrum and founder of Geek Club Books, a nonprofit focused on entertaining autism storytelling to change perceptions and end stigma.
Woman with Down Syndrome Becomes Fourth Degree Black Belt – Week in Neurodiversity (12/2/17)
(3mins 33 sec) In this episode, an MRI machine helps a teen with epilepsy, a woman with Down syndrome goes for her 4th degree black belt, and Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert host the world’s first nonverbal talk show host to raise acceptance for autism! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Taking A Trip Outside Your Comfort Zone: A Teen Girl with Autism on Learning Independence
Eryn Segal details her recent experience in a college summer program, and how it helped her develop skills to be more independent.
The Chocolate Spectrum: Autism Employment One Sweet at a Time, with Valerie Herskowitz | EDB 107
(27 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Valerie Herskowitz, the founder of the Chocolate Spectrum, a chocolate shop staffed by people on the Autism Spectrum.
How Rescuing Turtles Helped a Man with Tourette Syndrome
After his severe case of Tourette Syndrome left Ryan Stevens, 22, incapable of completing college, he realized a new passion: rescuing animals!
How Did Luke Bryan Help a Fan with Apraxia Speak? – Week in Neurodiversity (11/25/17)
(3 mins) In this episode, a father creates a comic book character with Down syndrome for his son, Luke Bryan meets a special fan with apraxia, and how can robotic legs help children with cerebral palsy walk? These stories and more in this week's episode!
The Challenges of Home Treatment for Autism
Dr. Brian Udell covers some of the possible problems that can be run into when parents treat their children on the spectrum at home.
Light Therapy May Help Some With Bipolar Disorder
New research suggests that those stricken with the hardships of Bipolar Disorder, including depression and anxiety, may find relief with daily doses of light therapy.
Holiday Spectrumtacular: Navigating the Holidays with Autism | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 28
(50 mins) In this special episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS cover common challenges faced by people on the autism spectrum during the holiday season, and review tools and strategies to stay meltdown free!
Man with Asperger’s Lives Dream on Jeopardy! – Week in Neurodiversity (11/18/17)
(3 mins 36 sec) In this episode, University of Iowa researchers look at a cancer drug’s effect on Parkinson’s, a neurologist discusses the facts and myths of Alzheimer’s, and a young man with Asperger’s lives his dream of competing on Jeopardy! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Achieving Goals with ADHD, with Lynn Miner-Rosen | EDB 105
(25 mins) Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Lynn Miner-Rosen, M.Ed., BCC, CDCS. Lynn is a Board Certified ADHD Coach and Career Coach for College Students and Young Adults.
I’ve Been Diagnosed with Epilepsy – Now What?
Tom McGranahan Jr. discusses the experience of his diagnosis for epilepsy in the 1960s, and explores how different options and support for the condition are today.
New ADHD Gaming Device Can Detect Distraction
Neuroplus is a startup that has created a brain-training device aiming to help those with ADHD to improve their concentration.
Can Instagram Cause Anxiety and Depression? – Week in Neurodiversity (11/11/17)
(3 mins 43 sec) In this episode, a man with Down Syndrome gives a speech to Congress about life with the condition, Jennifer Lewis from Black-ish discusses her bipolar disorder diagnosis, and how can Instagram create anxiety and depression for teens?
Riverdale’s Lili Reinhart Opens Up About Anxiety
Lili Reinhart, of the CW's hit show Riverdale, recently spoke about the role anxiety plays in both her life and career.
Parenting with Power: Finding Resources for Raising the Neurodiverse
Marcy Willard, Ph.D., NCSP discusses the importance of free information being available to the parents of the neurodiverse, and how creating them became the impetus for Cleape.com
Success for the Twice Exceptional: Helping the Neurodiverse Excel, with Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman | EDB 104
(27 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Dr. Marlo Payne Thurman, TBI survivor, professor at the University of Northern Colorado, and private education consultant.
Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships, with Grace Myhill, MSW | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 27
(36 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Grace Myhill, MSW, who specializes in working with neurodiverse couples in which one partner is on the autism spectrum.
Trucker Goes Cross Country for Autism Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (11/4/17)
(3 mins 19 sec) In this episode, a model throws a surprise photo shoot for his sister with Down syndrome, and Henry Winkler discusses how his book series about dyslexia is becoming a TV series! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Have Scientists Found the Cause of Dyslexia?
New research by a pair of scientists from the University of Rennes in France shows that spots found in the eyes of people with dyslexia may in fact be the cause of the learning condition.
From Silence to Soap: An Entrepreneur with Asperger’s Shares His Journey
Entrepreneur Spencer Kelly, a 16 year old with Asperger's syndrome, discusses how he developed his own company, Expedition Soaps.
Documenting Neurodiversity: Advocating Accessibility Through Film, with Dan Habib | EDB 103
(19 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with Dan Habib - a documentary filmmaker, disability advocate, and parent to a young man with cerebral palsy.
Researchers May Have Discovered Genes That Are Linked to OCD
The NRXN1 and REEP3 genes have also had a significant role in studies on the autism spectrum disorder. So with further research, they hope to learn more about possible causes and treatments for more than just OCD.
When Parents Disagree About Autism Intervention
Dr. Brian Udell discusses how parents can overcome disagreements when exploring options for their children with autism.
Yellow Pumpkins Raise Disability Awareness for Halloween – Week in Neurodiversity (10/28/17)
(3 mins 23 sec) In this episode, yellow pumpkins highlighted children with disabilities, a down syndrome entrepreneur has made a career out of socks, and Hamilton star praises Chicago’s epilepsy support! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Team Raises Epilepsy Awareness in South Africa
In Johannesburg, South Africa, a non-profit organization name EASA dedicates its time to inform and educate their local communities.
Managing Denial After a Traumatic Brain Injury
David A. Grant discusses his recent struggles with denial in advance of the 7th anniversary of his traumatic brain injury.
Raising a Child with Cerebral Palsy, with Dan Habib | EDB 102
(19 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Dan Habib - a documentary filmmaker, disability advocate, and parent to a young man with cerebral palsy.
New $12 Million Fitness Center Designed For Kids With Autism Breaks Ground
The fitness center, which will be located in Chicago, is the brainchild of Easterseals, a nonprofit aimed providing resources to the disabled and their families.
Sex and Autism, with Amy Gravino, M.A. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 26
(23 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Amy Gravino, M.A., a Certified Autism Specialist, national speaker, and the president of A.S.C.O.T. Consulting.
Saturday Night Live Spreads Awareness of Borderline Personality Disorder – Week in Neurodiversity (10/21/17)
In this episode, an SNL star discusses his diagnosis of borderline personality disorder, and a walk to benefit Down syndrome raises $100,000! These stories and more in this week's edition!
When Multisensory Meets Multimedia: Embracing Tools for the Neurodiverse
Susan Kahn, developer of Sue's Startegies, discusses the importance of utilizing multimedia content in teaching student with learning challenges.
14-Year-Old Cheerleader With Tourette Syndrome Raises Awareness
Jane Hamilton, a high school cheerleader in Minnesota with a mild form of Tourette’s, is not letting it get in her way anymore.
Housing on the Autism Spectrum, with Denise Resnik of First Place AZ and SARRC | EDB 101
Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Denise Resnick. Denise is the Founder, President, and Board Chair of First Place AZ (a nonprofit dedicate to developing innovative housing options for adults with autism), as well as co-founder of the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center.
Embracing Autism, Neurodiversity, and Societal Collaboration
In this blog piece, Mari Nosal reflects on the value of neurodiverse teamwork, and the way society has been positively impacted by harnessing the interests of those of us with different brains.
Habitat for Humanity & Bank of America Build Homes for Adults with Autism – Week in Neurodivesity (10/14/17)
(3 mins 26 sec) In this episode, a boy sells bracelets to raise money for Alzheimer’s research, a pair of students with Down syndrome win homecoming king and queen, and a how you seen this breathtaking animation about autism?
Study Explores Neural Basis of Yawning to Help People with Tourette’s Syndrome
“If we can understand how alterations in cortical excitability give rise to neural disorders we can potentially reverse them. We are looking for potential non-drug, personalized treatments,” Professor Stephen Jackson of the University of Nottingham said.
What is Different Brains? Advocating for Neurodiversity From Autism to Alzheimer’s | EDB 100
(21 mins) In this special 100th episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. explains what Different Brains® stands for through the words of some of our amazing past guests. Featuring Dr. Temple Grandin, Dr. Bankole Johnson Dr. Stephen Shore, Dr. Steve Perlman, Michael Alessandri Dr. J.R. Harding, Jessica Thom, Dr. Gail Saltz, and many more!
Working to Make Reading Easier for the Dyslexic Mind
Sarah Blodgett discusses how her son's struggle with dyslexia led her to create a new learning tool, and gain appreciation for the diversity in our brains.
Yes She Can!: Developing Job Skills in Women with Autism, with Marjorie Madfis, MBA
(28 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Marjorie Madfis, MBA, president of Yes She Can Inc.
Music As An Alternative To Opioids: Pain Management Stretches To New Paradigms
Martha Summa explores how music therapy's affect on the brain is becoming recognized as a way to aid in battling and avoiding opioid addiction.
Emma Stone Discusses Her Childhood Anxiety with Stephen Colbert – The Week in Neurodiversity (10/7/17)
(3mins 52 sec)Emma Stone shares her struggle with anxiety to Stephen Colbert, and how did this University of Kentucky quarterback help a kid with Tourette’s? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
How Video Games Can Aid in Finding the Roots of OCD
Investigators assembled forty-nine individual volunteers—24 with OCD and 25 matched controls—to play videogames in which they had to catch coin-like objects in a bucket.
Fostering Self-Advocacy in People with Autism, with Michael McManmon, Ed.D. | EDB 99
(23 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman continues his conversation with Michael McManmon, Ed.D.. Michael is a speaker, writer, artist psychologist, and founder of the College Internship Program (CIP)
The Symptoms of Codependency
Darlene Lancer, MFT lists the symptoms and signs that someone may be suffering from codependency.
Miss Michigan Pageant Competitor with Down Syndrome Makes History
When Alyssa Patrias competed in the pageant last month she become the first woman, with Down syndrome, in the state of Michigan to compete in a Miss Michigan Preliminary pageant.
The Perils, and Joys, of Raising a Child on the Autism Spectrum: A Review of Donna Levin’s “There’s More Than One Way Home”
In this special review article, Fran Moreland Johns reviews the new book, "There's More Than One Way Home," by our regular columnist Donna Levin.
The College Internship Program: Helping the Neurodiverse Find Careers, with Michael McManmon, Ed.D. | EDB 98
(23 mins) In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with Michael McManmon, Ed.D. -- a speaker, writer, artist, psychologist, and founder of the College Internship Program.
The Importance of Autism Support Groups, with Patricia Schissel, LMSW of the AHA | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 24
(31 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Pat Schissel, LMSW. Pat has been the executive director of the Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Association [AHA] for over fifteen years.
Mom Helps Son with Autism Fulfill His Dream of Starting a Bakery
“No Label at the Table” is a bakery specializing in dairy-free, gluten-free food and they only employ adults with autism, started by Jacob Wittman with his mother.
Planning For The Future: The Importance of Special Needs Trusts
In this blog article, Jennifer Gomez, Esq. highlights the reasons why a Special Needs Trust can be so important for planning the future of loved ones with special challenges.
Caring For Your Mental Health, with Lori Butts J.D., PH.D. | EDB 97
(16 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with returning guest and Different Brains board member Lori Butts, J.D., Ph.D., the president and director of the Clinical & Forensic Institute and previous president of the Florida Psychological Association, about mental health.
New Study Tracking Eye Movement Offers Innovative Method for Diagnosing ADHD
Researchers may now be able to improve upon their understanding as well as the methods in which they assess attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), by monitoring tiny movements within the eyes.
Asperger’s, Autism, and the Square Root of 2: A Neurodiversity Documentary
This documentary tells the story of one parent's journey to discovering that his daughter, recently diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome (also referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD), has a brain that works just a little bit differently.
Resiliency: Developing Emotional Strength Through Perseverance, with Debbie Manigat | EDB 96
(18 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. welcomes back Debbie Origho Manigat, M.S., DMFT(c) to discuss the importance of resiliency, common struggles related to postpartum depression, and the concept of mindfulness.
When Sounds Are Torture: Advocating and Living With Misophonia
Shaylynn Hayes discusses the impact Misophonia has had on her life, and the challenges of advocating for a condition that remains unknown to many.
Fostering Friendships for Women with Autism, with Sharon Valencia of Felicity House | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 23
(28 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Sharon Valencia of Felicity House.
Celebrity Chef Jamie Oliver on the Benefits of Dyslexia
Oliver is among the 1 and 10 of us who have dyslexia, which he says has played a major role with helping him build a one-man brand worth around 400 million dollars.
The War Within: Battling OCD on the Autism Spectrum
Aaron Bouma discusses how having both autism and OCD has affected his life, both for the worse and for the better.
Lead Singer of the Band Passion Pit Advocates for Mental Health Support
Through his newly founded organization, the Wishart Group, Michael Angelakos of the musical project Passion Pit wants to provide support services for musicians -- especially mental health services.
Teen with Autism Donates 1,000 Coloring Books to Kids with Cancer – Week in Neurodiversity (9/2/17)
(4 mins 9 sec) In this episode, a teen with autism donates coloring books to children at St. Jude’s, a teen with Down syndrome and a police officer become best friends, and a retiree who struggled with dyslexia for decades writes a book! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Digital Medicine: Videogames as Treatment for Alzheimer’s and Depression
Neuroscape, a research lab at the University of California at San Francisco (UCSF), is hoping patients suffering from mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and depression, may now be able to “level up” from pills to video games.
The ADHD Parent: Choosing Your Battles
Lacey Craddock discusses how picking battles carefully helped her have peace, and helped maximize the potential and self-esteem of her neurodiverse son.
Infant Mental Health: Supporting Early Emotional Development, with Debbie Manigat | EDB 95
(24 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Debbie Origho Manigat, M.S., DMFT(c), a Wellness Counselor, a Mental Health Advocate, and a Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant.
When Autism and Dyslexia Co-Occur, with Elizabeth Wilkinson, The Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 22
(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome as their guest British dyslexia and autism advocate Elizabeth Wilkinson, also known as the Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant.
Honoring Your Limitations After a Traumatic Brain Injury
David Grant discusses adjusting to his new limitations after a traumatic brain injury. "Akin to learning to drive a new car, I am slowly learning how to navigate through life with my new limitations."
“Game of Thrones” Star Discusses Intellectual Disability Stigma – Week in Neurodiversity (8/26/17)
(3 mins 46 sec) In this episode, a man finds pickleball to help his Parkinson’s, Freddie Highmore is set to star as a doctor on the autism spectrum, and Kit Harington discusses disability advocacy! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
