Dating Challenges on the Autism Spectrum
Aaron Bouma discusses his dating experiences, and how his diagnosis with autism can create challenges in finding relationships.
2017 in Review, Part 2: Understanding & Supporting Neurodiversity | EDB 110
(11 minutes) In part two of a special two part year-in-review episode, Hackie Reitman, M.D. presents words of wisdom from parents, researchers, specialists and advocates that are working to help create a world of acceptance for those of us with different brains, including Dr. Chris Stout, Dr. Bankole A. Johnson, Dr. Gail Saltz, and many more!
Police Officers and Kids with Down Syndrome Team Up For Gift Shopping – Week in Neurodiversity (12/23/17)
(3 min 32 sec) In this episode, children with Down Syndrome go gift shopping with police officers, Octavia Spencer discusses her challenges with dyslexia, and 200 strangers come out for the birthday party of a young boy on the autism spectrum! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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 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.
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!
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?
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!
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.
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!
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!
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?
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!
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.
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!
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
“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!
Autism and Employment, with Dr. Temple Grandin | EDB 94
(15 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with celebrated autism advocate and author Dr. Temple Grandin about the importance of job skills in people on the spectrum.
Housing on the Spectrum: Helping Adults with Autism Build a Future
Denise Resnik, founder, president, and CEO of First Place and co-founder of SARRC, discusses the importance of community support in creating resources for growing people with autism.
Avoiding Negative Thinking Patterns on the Autism Spectrum, with Valerie Gaus, Ph.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 21
(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Valerie Gaus, Ph.D.. Dr. Gaus is a psychologist that uses a cognitive-behavioral framework, licensed by New York State, who has been a practicing psychotherapist for more than 20 years.
Finding Successful Employment on the Autism Spectrum, with Marcia Scheiner | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 20
(36 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Marcia Scheiner, the President and Founder of Integrate, formerly Asperger Syndrome Training & Employment Partnership.
Can Dogs Sniff-Out Parkinson’s? – Week in Neurodiversity (8/12/17)
(4 mins 7 secs) In this episode, a deaf grandmother with dyslexia fulfills her dream of going to nursing school, Chicago Cub Willson Contreras surprises a 10-yr-old boy with Down syndrome for his birthday, and how are dogs learning to detect Parkinson’s? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
A Change of Perspective: Receiving an Autism Diagnosis as an Adult
Simon Lewin shares the story of his adult diagnosis with autism, and how it has given him a new perspective on life.
Social Communication Challenges in Women on the Autism Spectrum, with Gina Moravcik, M.A. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 19
(32 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Gina Moravcik, M.A.. Gina is the owner of Sunrise Speech and Language Services and is a NY state licensed and ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist who has worked with individuals on the Autism Spectrum ranging in age from 2 – 65 years, in a multidisciplinary setting for 14 years, with an expertise in social communication assessments and therapeutic interventions.
10 Year Old With Down Syndrome Wins Soap Box Race – Week in Neurodiversity (8/5/17)
(3 mins 54 sec) In this episode, a Parkinson’s support group is formed in Tennessee, Danny Seward performs an Elvis tribute for a birthday boy with Down syndrome, and a teen on the autism spectrum writes a children’s book!
Growing Up Autistic in France: Looking at the Spectrum Around the World, with Anlor Davin | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 18
(28 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Anlor Davin, autism advocate and author of the book “Being Seen.”
Kids Start Lemonade Stand to Raise Autism Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (7/29/17)
(3 mins 45 sec) In this episode, children put together a lemonade stand for autism awareness, a woman with bipolar disorder talks about the impact of self-empowerment, and strangers come donate movies to a man with Down syndrome for his collection? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Finding the Right Fidget: Sensory Tools for the Autistic, with Shira Mechanic, M.A. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 17
(25 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcome guest Shira Mechanic, the autistic owner of Fidget Club, a company that sells fidget and sensory tools to busy the hands and free the mind.
Young Boy With Autism Starts Lego Jewelry Business – Week in Neurodiversity (7/22/17)
(3 mins 5 sec) In this episode, a boy on the spectrum makes a business out of Lego jewelry, the Down Syndrome Society of Tennessee puts out a dance video to get the attention of a celebrity, and a coffee shop employs those with disabilities! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Denise’s List: Empowering the Parents of Children with Autism, with Denise Karp | EDB 90
(24 mins) In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Denise Karp, autism advocate and founder of the yahoo autism parent’s group Denise’s List.
Reaching “Critical Mass”: Supporting Autistic Individuals to Achieve Their Goals
Aaron Bouma, a Canadian advocate with autism, explains how having a core group of supportive family and friends - a "critical mass" as he calls them - helped him overcome challenges growing up.
Autism and Employment: Exploring Neurodiverse Working Relationships | Spectrumly Speaking Podcast ep. 16
(43 mins) In this episode, Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS and Katherine Cody, Psy.D. discuss navigating neurodiverse working relationships. The two discuss their own working relationship, explore common employment challenges for people on the autism spectrum, and highlight the benefits to businesses and individuals when neurodiversity is present in the workplace.
Veteran Walks Across the Country for PTSD Awareness – Week in Neurodiversity (7/15/17)
(3 mins 17 sec) In this episode, parents design a water park for those with disabilities, a 17-yr-old with Down syndrome tells her story to the UN, and an army vet travels the country by foot to spread awareness for PTSD! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Pioneering Advocacy for Women with Autism, with Liane Holliday Willey, Ed.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 15
(23 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with author and autism advocate Liane Holliday Willey, Ed.D. The three discuss Liane’s diagnosis with Asperger’s syndrome, what led her to share her experiences through writing, the roadblocks that exist for women on the spectrum, and Liane’s heroes and inspirations.
Netflix Previews New Series about Teen With Autism – Week in Neurodiversity (7/08/17)
(3 min 55 sec) In this episode, the trailer for the Netflix series Atypical premiers, a man with Parkinson’s walks again thanks to brain stimulation treatment, and a man asks his fiancé’s sister with Down syndrome to be his best friend forever! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Tennis As a Therapeutic Tool for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Lisa Pugliese, Speech Pathologist and the Founder and CEO of Love Serving Autism, discusses the ways tennis can help children on the spectrum develop important skills.
Exploring Life After College for Women with Autism, with Gabby Cabrera | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 14
(29 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS discuss the challenges women with autism can face after graduation. They also welcome Gabby Cabrera, a young lady on the spectrum who herself is going through this life transition.
Exploring PTSD in Firefighters – Week in Neurodiversity (7/01/17)
(4 min 12 sec) In this episode, a young woman sings a heartwarming song to her sister with Down syndrome, a volunteer firefighter looks to spread PTSD awareness, and a mother paints her face to spread autism acceptance! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Living With a Sibling That Has Asperger’s Syndrome
In her first blog for Different Brains, Brooke Segal discusses growing up with a sister diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome.
Autism Advocacy in Australia, with Barb Cook of Spectrum Women Magazine | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 13
(28 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Australian autism advocate Barb Cook. Barb was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome in 2009 and is Founder and Editor in Chief of Spectrum Women Magazine.
Temple Grandin Discusses Growing Up With Autism – The Week in Neurodiversity (6/24/17)
(3mins 51sec) In this episode, tandem bicycling is helping those with Parkinson’s, Temple Grandin discusses growing up with autism, and how did a little leaguer with Down syndrome get to live his dream? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Normal Challenges, With A Twist Of Autism: Growing Up On The Spectrum
Eryn Segal highlights the day to day challenges she faces as a young woman on the autism spectrum.
Understanding Autism Through Science, with Alycia Halladay, Ph.D. | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 12
(55 mins) In this episode, hosts Katherine Cody, Psy.D. and Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS speak with Alycia Halladay Ph.D. of the Autism Science Foundation. They discuss research into the genetic components of autism, studying the occurrence of neurodiverse siblings, and the autism gender gap as related to the world of research.
‘America’s Got Talent’ Judges Wowed by Deaf Singer – Week in Neurodiversity (6/17/17)
(4 mins) In this episode, a teacher dyes his hair for a boy with epilepsy, a an 11-year-old with autism inspires others to overcome their fears by riding roller coasters, and a deaf woman gets a standing ovation with her performance on America’s Got Talent! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Exploring Alternative Routes to Meaningful Income for Adults with Autism
Nick Venturella of AutismHR.com discusses how the "gig economy" can present income and experience to those on the autism spectrum that may otherwise be unable to find employment.
Autism and Transitions: How Women on the Spectrum Deal With Change | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 11
(40 minutes) In this episode, Becca Lory, CAS, BCCS welcomes her new co-host Katherine Cody, Psy.D. Becca and Dr. Cody discuss their histories together, the challenges related to transitions for people on the autism spectrum, common life events that can inspire those issues, and some tools for coping with changes.
Jay Leno Talks About Living with Dyslexia – Week in Neurodiversity (6/10/17)
(3 mins 57 sec) In this episode, Jay Leno talks about growing up with dyslexia, friends with Alzheimer’s keep their brains active through their love of trains, and a teen with Down syndrome receives birthday wishes from Lorde! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
Asperger’s and Hyperinterests: Finding Your Strengths on the Autism Spectrum
Aaron Bouma, diagnosed with Asperger's at 12 and now an advocate in Canada, discusses how his love of military history and model building has blossomed into a career.
Making Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies Work for Women with Autism, w/ Beth Yurman, Psy.D. | Spectrumly Speaking Podcast ep. 10
Becca Lory and Dr. Lauren Gerber are joined by Dr. Beth Yurman to discuss the value of cognitive-behavioral therapies for those on the autism spectrum.
Baseball MVP Kirk Gibson on Life with Parkinson’s Disease – Week in Neurodiversity (6/3/17)
(3 mins 52 sec) In this episode, a comedian uses his Asperger’s diagnosis to his advantage, fashion students hold a fashion show for children with Down syndrome, and former baseball player Kirk Gibson discusses living with Parkinson’s! These stories and more in this week’s edition!
The Difference Between Autism Service Dogs & Emotional Support Pets, with Pamela Kent | Spectrumly Speaking ep. 9
(43 mins) Becca, Dr. Gerber, and their guest, therapy dog trainer Pamela Kent, discuss the differences between emotional support dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs, the role animals can play for a person on the autism spectrum.
Father Creates Minecraft Safe Place for Kids With Autism – Week in Neurodiversity (5/27/17)
(3 mins 31 sec) In this episode, weightlifter with Down syndrome goes perfect in his competition, Shazam raises awareness for Alzheimer’s, and how has one father created a Minecraft safe place for kids with with autism? These stories and more in this week’s edition!
