Can The Gut Control The Brain? Bacteria’s Role In Autism with Dr. Derrick MacFabe | EDB 27
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Derrick MacFabe, M.D., assistant professor and director of The Kilee Patchell-Evans Autism Research Group, and pioneer of the study of the gut’s influence over the brain.
There’s No Place Like Home: For Adults With Autism & Other Special Abilities
Written from a mother’s heart, pondering his first home away from our family home, here’s what I believe Matt wants and says through his words unspoken.
Week in Neurodiversity – Can Worms Cure Parkinson’s? (5/28/16)
In this episode we look at worms that could help cure Parkinson’s, a young entrepreneur with down’s syndrome, a collar that could prevent concussions, and more!
Filmmaking on the Autism Spectrum, with Keri Bowers and Taylor Cross | EDB Episode 26
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Keri Bowers and Taylor Cross, the directors of the films Normal People Scare Me and Normal People Scare Me Too.
Special Needs Parenting: Feeling Like A Square Peg In A Round Hole
One cannot Google “Asperger’s Syndrome” and profess to be an expert. I had to live it. I have learned more from special needs parenting then I ever learned in the classroom.
Soldiers Climb Mount Everest for PTSD
The nonprofit organization U.S. Expeditions and Explorations, or USX, works to shed light on the battle veterans experiencing PTSD face each day, and has assembled a team of active duty soldiers that are about to climb Mount Everest.
Raising the Autistic in Australia, with Sarah Collins | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 25
Sarah Collins of Autism CAER discusses autism awareness in her home of Australia, raising three children on the spectrum, and creating inclusive educational strategies.
Week in Neurodiversity – Asperger’s Boy Writes Poem that “Breaks the Internet” (5/21/16)
Move over Kim Kardashian, because this week in neurodiversity features Asperger’s boy Writes a poem that REALLY “Breaks the Internet,” A pen has been created that could read to the dyslexic, and a military homecoming that will make your heart melt!
APRAXIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about apraxia What is apraxia? Apraxia is a complex disorder, with no medical test offering a definitive diagnosis. Instead, professionals look to a constellation of signs and symptoms along with astute evaluations in order to determine if a child who is considered a late talker has apraxia […]
Creating Activities for Autistic Kids, with Catherine Pascuas | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 24
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Catherine Pascuas, host of The Autism Show Podcast and author of The Autism Activities Handbook.
Travel For All with Tarita Davenock | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 23
Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Tarita Davenock, founder of Travel For All– a full service travel agency specializing in accessible travel.
Neurodiversity in the Arts: Curious About the Curious Incident
Donna gives her review of the stage adaptation of the best-selling novel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.
Week in Neurodiversity – Boxing Away Parkinson’s Disease (5/14/16)
This week in neurodiversity features Kristen Bell discussing her issues with anxiety, a Vine comedian opens up about bi-polar and depression, and a new program hopes to use boxing to fight Parkinson’s disease.
A Simulated Experience of Dyslexia
Many of us have no idea what it feels like to experience the struggles of dyslexia. But one website has been created to give everyone a taste of it.
The Dyslexic Astrophysicist, Dr. Matthew Schneps | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 22
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Dr. Matthew Schneps, who feels dyslexia helped him become an astrophysicist.
VIDEO BLOG: The Difference Between Counseling and Psychotherapy
One question I get asked with some frequency is: What is the difference between counseling and psychotherapy?
Justice for the Neurodiverse, with Judge Ginger Lerner-Wren | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 21
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Judge Ginger Lerner-Wren, a pioneer of America’s first mental health court, dedicated to the decriminalization of people with mental illness.
A Very Special Mothers Day To Special Needs Moms
By Mari Nosal, M.Ed., CECE I was perusing the numerous racks of Mother’s Day cards recently. As is characteristic of me, I was jettisoned into silent, analytical observation. I made mental notes pertaining to the responsibility afforded to a mother. It is a 24-7 job. Mothers must be on call to jump to attention for a whimpering […]
Week in Neurodiversity – Channing Tatum Dating the Autistic? (5/7/16)
This week in neurodiversity features Channing Tatum on the world’s first talk show with a non-verbal autistic host, an epileptic buy realizes his gridiron dreams, and an autistic boy’s reaction to Coldplay must be seen to be believed.
Misophonia: The new kid on the block… or not?
Just when you think that enough overlapping and diagnostically confusing “disorders” exist, a new one pops up! Dr. Jennifer Brout discusses Misophonia, a neurodiversity condition that is growing in recognition.
MISOPHONIA
Click here to view all Different Brains content about misophonia What is Misophonia? Misophonia is a recently proposed disorder characterized by extreme sensitivity to “patterned based sounds.” It was termed in 2001 by Pawel and Margaret Jastreboff of Emory University. Reactivity to aversive sounds includes heightened autonomic nervous system and negative emotional arousal. Pattern […]
Wings for Autism: Air Travel Preparation for Children on the Spectrum
A free program called “Wings for Autism” has been created to help families with children on the autism spectrum relieve some of the stress and anxiety of air travel.
OUR FOUNDER
Our Founder: Harold “Hackie” Reitman, M.D. 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 […]
Ingredients for a Supportive Community
We stop for people who are older or people with obvious physical disabilities. But what happens when the disability is not so obvious, or in Matt’s case, autism?
What is it like to have autism? #WIN (4/30/16)
This week in neurodiversity features Irish snapchat star James Kavanagh, Nick Lachey and Bruno Mars’ autism awareness contribution, and a robot designed to help autistic children improve their social skills.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
An Aspie’s Opinion on Medical Marijuana
Marijuana has been shown to help with symptoms related to cancer, chronic pain, Glaucoma, and many more. How about its use with Autism?
Housing and Neurodiversity with Carolyn Naifeh | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 19
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with Carolyn Naifeh, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Nashville IDD Housing Group.
Advocating Neurodiversity at Florida Atlantic University’s CARD
Looking across the audience one can see how different everyone is, how neurodiversity reaches everyone. And with that comes a host of different ideas and philosophies, all backed up by very strong passion.
Music Helps Kids with Down Syndrome Realize Dreams
Two young people with Down Syndrome recently found their dreams coming true through love of music- one through a viral dance video, and another through a famous rock star.
VIDEO BLOG: Understanding Neurodiversity
Historically a diagnosis has been perceived as a broken part that needs fixing- and once identified that it could be fixed. But, we are not part that need fixing- we are people.
Week in Neurodiversity – Alzheimer’s Journalist (4/23/16)
This Week in Neurodiversity features a journalist with Alzheimer’s disease, virtual reality goggles, and an autistic boy signing “Let It Go” from the movie Frozen.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
New IBM Project May Help Predict Epileptic Seizures
IBM recently developed an experimental chip called TrueNorth that may help predict the onset of epileptic seizures.
Written by Matthew Ryan.
A Different Look At PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is getting growing attention in quite a few places around the world. With legislations being recently passed in Canada, the Alaskan government is now following suit in their treatment and views of PTSD.
Neurodiversity in the Criminal Justice System with William Packard, Ph.D. | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 18
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. speaks with author and jail diversion team facilitator William Packard, Ph.D.
Week in Neurodiversity (4/16/16)
The Week in Neurodiversity highlights recent news stories that speak to the differences in our brains.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan
Transcending Labels
Long before I’d ever heard the term Asperger’s, I learned to accept my bright, shy uncle for who he was. He was funny and soft-spoken, and even though he was nervous in social interactions, he always came to our family gatherings, where he’d take up residence in the perimeter of the room.
Autism in Australia with Karina Barley | EXPLORING DIFFERENT BRAINS Episode 17
In this episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. welcomes Karina Barley, founder of Project Autism Australia and Project Autism USA.
New Video Game Assists the Autistic with Learning
A Brisbane researcher has designed a videogame specifically to assist children with autism in a mainstream learning environment.
Week in Neurodiversity (4/9/16)
The Week in Neurodiversity highlights recent news stories that speak to the differences in our brains.
Hosted by Matthew Ryan.
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.