Neurodiversity at the Dentist, with Dr. Allen Wong | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 16
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. welcomes Dr. Allen Wong, professor and director of Hospital Dentistry Program at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry.
Autism Acceptance Day Edition of the Week in Neurodiversity (4/2/16)
The Autism Acceptance Day edition of the Week in Neurodiversity highlights recent news stories that speak to the differences in our brains.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
10 Athletes That Support Autism Awareness
From baseball to hockey, football, golf and even Olympic weightlifters, there are a number of well-known people who have chosen to write or speak about members of their family whose brains are a little bit different.
Autism and Hyperinterests with The Buddy Project’s Eric Zimmerman | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 15
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Eric Zimmerman, founder of The Buddy Project and author of “Anything But Ordinary,” along with Eric’s friend Sean .
Hollywood Visual Effects Studio Embraces Artists with Autism
There is a new wave of digital effects artists making their way in the industry, as young individuals with autism are being given the opportunity to find their place with Exceptional Minds.
Week in Neurodiversity (3/26/16)
The Week in Neurodiversity highlights recent news stories that speak to the differences in our brains.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
Neurodiversity in the Arts: Cassandra Dunn’s “Art of Adapting”
I’m back to recommend another work of fiction featuring a neurodiverse character. This time it’s The Art of Adapting, a first novel by Bay Area author Cassandra Dunn. This story proves that although Leo Tolstoy was a genius, he got one thing wrong: all happy families are not alike.
The Autism Doctor Brian Udell M.D. | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 14
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Brian Udell, M.D., medical director of the Children’s Development Center.
NEWSLETTER SIGN-UP
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An Inclusive Society: A Team Effort
Every human being in society seeks shelter, a sense of meaningfulness, acknowledgment of their existence, supportive individuals in their lives, respect for their thoughts and feelings. and inclusion within society.
Week in Neurodiversity (3/19/16)
On the Week in Neurodiversity, the host highlights newsworthy events in the news involving different brains.
“The Neurodiversity News Show”
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
Dyslexia Reading Strategies with Susan Kahn, M.Ed. | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 13
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Susan Kahn, M.Ed., educator and author of the “Sue’s Strategies” series.
A World of Possibilities for Autism: Here, There, Everywhere
Whether in a small town in Mississippi or within a 4.3 million-person metropolis, communities are built one person and friend at a time. Communities make dreams possible, help us overcome obstacles and quiet our fears.
Circus Caters to Audiences with Autism
When you think of a circus, you think of the wild events, strange lights, and the scents of food and animals, all that comes with it—but rarely would you imagine a child with autism-related hypersensitivity being able to tolerate it.
Week in Neurodiversity (3/12/16)
On the Week in Neurodiversity, the host highlights newsworthy events in the news involving different brains.
“Millennial Neurodiversity News”
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
Upload Your Memories to the Cloud, Just Don’t Get Hacked!
No more dangling your arms through a forest of outstretched limbs, phone in hand, to capture a slice of reality on a screen while you, well, miss it. In due time, our eyes may be enough.
Autism in the Family with Mari Nosal, M.Ed. | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 12
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Mari Nosal, M.Ed., author of “Ten Commandments Of Interacting With Kids On The Autism Spectrum.”
Realizing I Had Social Anxiety
I was afraid of social situations. I was afraid of making mistakes. I was afraid of looking bad. I was afraid of humiliating myself in front of others. It was to the point I couldn’t even perform simple tasks… I had social anxiety disorder.
Week in Neurodiversity (3/5/16)
On the Week in Neurodiversity, the host highlights newsworthy events in the news involving different brains.
“Millennial Neurodiversity News”
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
Autism and the Power of Memory with Ron Sandison | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 11
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Ron Sandison, an author and preacher with autism and savant memory abilities. Ron discusses the importance of parental involvement for the neurodiverse, the benefits of embracing hyper-interests, and his new book “A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice. Biblical Wisdom.”
Neurodiversity’s New Role Today in Novels, Movies and the Arts
The past decade has seen a sharp rise in the number of non-fiction books and articles by scientists, educators and parents on neurodiversity. Less well-known and documented is the emerging role that neurodiversity has come to play in novels, movies and the arts; and the far more positive characterizations of the neurodiverse population.
9 Year Old With Dyslexia Writes Book on Relativity
At only nine-years-old, a bright child and author, Denim Padberg, has released a quantum physics guide, called “How Relative is Relativity? An 8-year-old’s Guide to Quantum Physics,” explaining his theories on black holes and the birth of the universe.
Week in Neurodiversity (2/27/16)
On the Week in Neurodiversity, the host highlights newsworthy events in the news involving different brains.
“Millennial Neurodiversity News”
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
The Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant Elizabeth Wilkinson |EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 10
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Elizabeth Wilkinson, The Dyslexic Dyslexia Consultant and founder of Dyslexia Information Day.
GUESTS
Ana Anselma is the co-founder of the Social Mind Center in Davie, Florida. She is also the mother of Click to hear Ana discuss the importance of creating safe environments for children with autism and asperger’s syndrome to develop social skills on Exploring Different Brains. Karina Barley M.Ed. founder of Project Autism Australia/USA, is […]
BLOGGERS
Dr. Harold “Hackie” Reitman is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, children’s activist, and neurodiversity advocate. He is also a retired orthopaedic surgeon and a former professional heavyweight boxer who currently serves as the CEO of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based PCE Media, LLC, the multi-platform production company he founded in 2004. Dr. Reitman’s mission is to achieve excellence in creating […]
Week in Neurodiversity (2/20/16)
On the Week in Neurodiversity, the host highlights newsworthy events in the news involving different brains.
“The Neurodiversity News Show”
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
Information To Know About Special Needs Parents
Parenting kids with special needs can prove to be a strategic balancing act. It encompasses the whole family. Not only do special needs kids face challenges, but so do their parents and siblings.
The Education Lessons of Ron Large |EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 9
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Ron Large, author of “Larger Than Life”. Ron discusses his career as an educator, the importance of treating neurodiverse students as individuals, and the life changing experiences chronicled in his book.
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 09: Ron Large TRANSCRIPT
HACKIE REITMAN, M.D. (HR) Hi, this is Dr. Hackie Reitman for another episode of Exploring Different Brains, today we’re very lucky to have a true educator: Ron Large, the author of Larger Lessons. A very dedicated educator, as you’ll see, who really gets that everybody’s brain is different. Ron, welcome to the show! RON LARGE […]
Let It Roll: New Options, More Choices for Adults with Autism
Last year, we connected with a social group for young adults with autism and special needs and find ourselves bowling most Saturday afternoons. With or without bumpers, bowling is a great equalizer.
8 Times Social Media Made a Difference for the Neurodiverse
All of us have heard of instances where bullies used social media to victimize their peers whom learn differently. Fortunately, social media has also promoted displays of communal support, and mainstreamed that support to more people than ever possible. Here is a list of 8 occasions where social media was responsible for making the difference in the life of someone neurodiverse.
The Art of Autism with Debra Muzikar |EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 8
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Debra Muzikar, co-founder of The Art of Autism. Debra discusses her son’s diagnosis, and how his interest in painting has led to the creation of an organization that works to give a voice and outlet to neurodiverse artists.
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 08: Debra Muzikar TRANSCRIPT
HACKIE REITMAN, M.D. (HR) This is Dr. Hackie Reitman, welcome to Exploring Different Brains, and our special guest today, all the way from southern California, is one of the co-founders of the Art of Autism, Debra Muzikar. Debra, welcome to the show! DEBRA MUZIKAR (DM) Thank you, Hackie, I’m glad to be here. HR Well, […]
U.K. Man Overcomes Asperger’s Reading and Writing Issues to Publish First Novel
Although reading and writing still gave him trouble, Scott was determined to become an author.
Lynn University: Helping the Neurodiverse Transition
Lynn University has a mission- to make sure that all students, whether traditional learners or nontraditional learners, have a chance. That people from any walk of life should have the ability to succeed, and that the University strived to be the place where the building blocks to that success were laid. The sincerity and dedication of Kevin Ross and his colleagues came though loud and clear. That’s leadership. And that is what this conference– Lynn University’s Transitions 2016– is all about.
Replace Autism Awareness With Autism Acceptance
Autism awareness, what does this really mean? Logos, colors and symbols that represent autism awareness are prevalent during the month of April. People equate the symbols with the autism spectrum. However, being aware that autism exists and comprehending what the autism spectrum is composed of, the challenges faced by families, children and adults who live with autism 12 months out of the year is a totally different and pressing issue.
Autism Advocate Stephen Shore | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 07
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman speaks with author and autism advocate Stephen Shore. Stephen was diagnosed as non-verbal and autistic at the age of 4, when doctors suggested his parents institutionalize him. Since then he has gone on an amazing journey that has led him to speaking on behalf of autism and neurodiversity in 49 countries and all but one continent.
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 07: Stephen Shore TRANSCRIPT
HACKIE REITMAN (HR) Hi, this is Dr. Hackie Reitman with another episode of Exploring Different Brains, and I have a real fun different brain to explore today: Stephen Shore, who’s one of my idols in the neurodiversity world, who I had the pleasure of meeting out at the World Autism Conference in Tucson, […]
A Community Smiles: Building Hope for Adults With Autism
Cleaning out closets, drawers and the garage seemed like a good plan for ringing in the New Year. Matt’s closets took the longest. The biggest challenge: parting with the cue cards, flashcards, Velcro-backed picture cards and all kinds of games, systems and tools that have helped Matt learn, communicate and advocate for himself.
Entrepreneur With Down Syndrome Starts New Business
Blake Pyron is about to become the youngest business owner in Sanger, Texas, and maybe even the only business owner in the state with Down Syndrome.
Teaching the Neurodiverse with Jim Sporleder | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 06
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. interviews Jim Sporleder, the former principle of Lincoln High School in Walla Walla, Washington. That school and Jim’s tenure there are the subject of the new documentary “Paper Tiger.”
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 06: Jim Sporleder TRANSCRIPT
HACKIE REITMAN, M.D. (HR) Hi, I’m Hackie Reitman and this is Exploring Different Brains. Today, we are speaking with Jim Sporleder, the former principal of Lincoln High School in Walla Walla, Washington; That school, and Jim’s tenure there are the subject of a new documentary: Paper Tiger. Hello, Jim. JIM SPORLEDER (JS) […]
Israel Foreign Ministry Hosts Exhibit of Artwork Made by Autistic Adults
Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is hosting an art exhibit, entitled “Bridge to the World,” and comprised entirely of artwork made by Israeli adults living on the autistic spectrum.
EPILEPSY
Click here to view all Different Brains content about epilepsy What is Epilepsy? Epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, is a group of related disorders characterized by a tendency for recurrent seizures. Epilepsy is usually diagnosed after a person has had more than one seizure. When identifiable, the causes of epilepsy usually involve either a […]
Autism and Employment with Michael Bernick | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 05
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman welcomes Michael Bernick, the former director of California’s labor department. Mr. Bernick discusses his book, “The Autism Job Club,” the work he does for the neurodiverse through AASCEND, and the importance of employment for people on the autism spectrum.
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 05: Michael Bernick TRANSCRIPT
HACKIE REITMAN, M.D. (HR) Hi, I’m Dr. Hackie Reitman and we’re exploring different brains, and today, we’ve got a pretty cool guy here, we’ve got Michael Bernick, who is the former secretary and director of labor and employment in California, which is about 1/6th of the US population, and the author of The […]
New Football Helmet May Reduce Concussions
To reduce the number of concussions in football, a startup company is Seattle is developing a new helmet that absorbs shock differently than a traditional football helmet.
The Asperger’s Trip to Israel
For ten days, from December 21, 2015 through January 1, 2016, I was part of a trip to Israel, specifically for young adults with autism. Though all of us on the trip were adults on the spectrum, we did not define ourselves or our trip in terms of autism.
Camp Helps Teens With Autism Develop Social Skills
Camp Onward is designed to help teens with Asperger’s syndrome and high-functioning autism develop social skills. According to co-founder Nancy Hagan, “Camp Onward is a chance for teens that have social difficulties to get together, have fun, get outdoors, be around animals, and learn a lot of different life skills.”
British Prime Minister Pledges £1 Billion Toward Mental Health Care
British Prime Minister David Cameron has launched a new £1 billion initiative which is partly designed to help mothers and teenagers suffering from mental health issues, particularly mothers suffering from postpartum depression and teenagers with anorexia, as well as addiction.
Autistic Savant Artist Michael Tolleson | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 04
In this episode, Dr. Hackie Reitman interviews Michael Tolleson, an autistic savant artist. Michael talks about creating gallery worthy paintings in a matter of minutes, his late diagnosis, and the importance of being “unique.”
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 04: Michael Tolleson TRANSCRIPT
HAROLD REITMAN, M.D. (HR) Welcome to Exploring Different Brains. I’m Dr. Hackie Reitman and our guest today, Michael Tolleson, is an autistic-savant artist. Michael, welcome to Exploring Different Brains. MICHAEL TOLLESON (MT) Glad to be here. HR Now, why don’t you tell our audience what autistic-savant artist means, and […]
Rare Show of Unity by Florida Politicians Will Benefit Neurodiversity
“All children deserve the opportunity to pursue their own unique educational and career goals. Unfortunately… all too often children diagnosed with developmental disabilities lose out on important opportunities as services are provided through a one-size-fits-all system that too frequently leads to a life of government dependence.”
The Israeli Army Unit That Recruits Teens With Autism
Many autistic soldiers who would otherwise be exempt from military service in Israel have found a place in Unit 9900, a selective intelligence unit within the Israel Defense Force (IDF) where their heightened perceptual skills are an asset.
Abraham Fischler on Aspertools
Autism in the Classroom, Autism in the Home: The Need for Consistent Supports
Many supports that students with autism have available to them in school should also be available and used at home. These supports are used as tools to help these students be successful. Many of these supports we use in our everyday life- but we may call them something different.
Social Skills in the Neurodiverse with Ana Anselma | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 03
In this episode, Dr. Harold Reitman welcomes Ana Anselma, co-founder of the Social Mind Center in Davie, Florida.
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS – Episode 03: Ana Anselma TRANSCRIPT
HAROLD REITMAN, MD (HR) Welcome to exploring different brains. My name is Hackie Reitman and we’re going to be interviewing today Ana Anselma. She is the head of the Social Minds center in Fort Lauderdale. Before I mess it up any further, we’re going to introduce Ana herself and have her tell you all about […]
New studies suggest yoga may help women with PTSD
Women with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are responding better to yoga as a therapy than traditional methods involving medication and cognitive behavior therapy, according to recent studies.
Depression changes gray matter in young brains
The brains of children who suffer clinical depression as preschoolers develop differently than those of preschoolers not affected by the disorder, according to a new study conducted at Washington University in St. Louis.
Hockey Player Talks About Living With Asperger’s and ADHD
People with Asperger’s syndrome are often uncomfortable enough in day-to-day social situations- let alone in the fast-paced action of an ice hockey ring.
Parenting and Asperger’s Syndrome with Derek Volk | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 02
In this episode, Dr. Reitman speaks with Derek Volk, author of “Chasing The Rabbit,” host of The Derek Volk Show, and father of a son with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Movie Theater Employees Give One Boy with Autism an Enjoyable “Star Wars” Experience
Thanks to a friendly movie theater crew, a boy was ensured that the force was with him during the recent Clarksville, Tenn., premiere of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”
How Shark Tank Investor Daymond John’s Dyslexia Helped Shape Him
Many people know Daymond John as one of the savvy business executives who quickly decide whether to invest their own money in business ideas proposed by budding entrepreneurs on the reality TV show Shark Tank. What many people don’t know about his is that he is dyslexic. . .
Seasonal Smiles For Adults with Autism & Their Families
This holiday season marked my husband’s 60th birthday. Rob insisted: no surprise parties or gifts. His choice: spending his Sunday birthday filling SMILE Biscotti holiday orders from across the country…
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 02: Derek Volk Full Transcript
HACKIE REITMAN, M.D. (HR) Hi this is Hackie Reitman again, talking about neurodiversity. We are so fortunate today to be talking to Derek Volk. He is way up in Maine, he owns a box company, Volk Packaging, he’s got a radio show called The Derek Volk Show, his son’s name is Dylan and he […]
Quiet Santa Makes Christmas More Manageable for Children with Autism
This year two radio hosts in Utah who have children with autism have created an event called “Quiet Santa” which is intended to give kids with autism or sensory disorders an experience with Santa that isn’t stressful or intimidating.
New tool could help children with autism develop language skills
With the goal of creating a device to help children on the autism spectrum develop language skills, determined Purdue engineer James Gerber and his team of engineers are close to bringing this device to reality.
Navigating Airport Anxiety for Different Brains
Different brains look at holiday air travel differently. Some brains don’t mind it; others don’t deal with it too well. The way my brain is, I don’t much care for the whole air travel process any time of the year, but particularly during the holidays.
Photographer Turns Classic Paintings into Photos Featuring Children with Down Syndrome
A popular art exhibition in Albania which features children with Down syndrome replicating poses from famous paintings is evoking powerful emotional responses from its viewers.
Autism cop: Here’s how police should interact with those on the autism spectrum
The “autism cop.” That’s what fellow policemen call Rob Zink, a member of the St. Paul, Minn., police force for 17 years. He is the father of two sons on the spectrum, which gives him unique insight on how cops should interact with people with autism.
Treating Autism with Raun Kaufman | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 01
Dr. Harold “Hackie” Reitman interviews Raun Kaufman, the head of the Autism Treatment Center, and author of the book “Autism Breakthrough.”
EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 01: Raun Kaufman Full Transcript
Hackie Reitman, M.D. (HR): Alright, Hackie Reitman here and today we are talking with Raun Kaufman. Raun, thank you so much for coming on. Raun Kaufman (RK): Thanks for having me, Hackie. HR: Well, you are a very controversial character, you know. RK: In some circles, sure. HR: Well, you’ve had a remarkable history, […]
British soccer star Wayne Rooney surprises fan with Asperger’s
James King, a 15-year-old British boy who suffers from Asperger’s syndrome, was recently given tickets to attend a Manchester United soccer match through his school, Middleton Technology…
Iowa State students design PTSD-friendly interiors for combat outposts
Students in an Iowa State University graduate studio are bringing interior design to the 21st century combat outpost in an effort to create environments that help alleviate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and support combat soldiers’ mental health.
Tips on Air Travel for Families with Autistic Members
While traveling by plane can provoke anxiety for even seasoned air travelers, for people with autism who are fearful of new things, it can be terrifying.
Asperger’s, Autism, and The Square Root of 2: A Neurodiversity Documentary – complete transcript
[opening] Harold “Hackie” Reitman, M.D.: He leaned back in is chair, and he said, “Somebody oughta’ make a movie.” Dr. Lori Butts, J.D., Ph.D.: Darby Stanchfield did a great job displaying the emotional difficulties that she experienced. David Linsley: He called me, and told me, “The whole movie is about Asperger’s.” Hackie: […]
How one police officer helped a non-verbal young man with Autism
Sometimes frustrations in communicating their thoughts and feelings make kids with autism do things like run away from home. When a 16-year-old boy who has autism and is non-verbal ran away from home this fall for the second time, the responding police officer who helped find him decided to try to prevent it from happening again.
Young girl with Down syndrome to attend modeling convention
It took a lot of effort and a lot of time, but Kennedy Walsh, a young model with Down syndrome, has finally raised enough money to attend a modeling convention in Los Angeles in January.
