Employment for the Autistic with Thomas D’Eri of Rising Tide Car Wash | EDB 30
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Thomas D’Eri, COO and co-founder of Rising Tide Car Wash.
Fictional Characters on the Autism Spectrum with author Cassandra Dunn | EDB ep.29
In this episode, Harold Reitman, M.D. speaks with Cassandra Dunn, author of “The Art of Adapting.”
The Week In Neurodiversity – Do Kids and Adults Have Different ADHD? (06/03/16)
This week- adult ADHD may differ from that of children, twins with OCD under go a new surgery, a documentary sheds light on epilepsy, and more!
Neurodiversity in the Arts: It’s Not a Perfect World, but I’ll Take It
Donna Levin reviews Jennifer Rose's book "It’s Not a Perfect World, but I’ll Take It: 50 Life Lessons for Teens Like Me Who Are Kind of (You Know) Autistic"
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.”
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."
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.
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.
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.”
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...
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.
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."
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...
Tips on Air Travel for Families with Autistic Members
By Peter Bochner
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. In fact, according to foxnews.com in an article titled “Flying with Autism: What You Need to Know”, many families that have children or adult family members who are autistic don’t travel anywhere because the process is so nerve-wracking, or else because they fear that a situation can unravel quickly.
Peter Bochner is a writer and editor for subjects related to information technology and medicine. He has worked on such publications as Computerworld, Asian Sources and the Journal of Alzheimers Disease, served as editor for several TechTarget websites, and has written for several high-tech research firms. In addition, he served as editor for the recently published book Aspertools: The Practical Guide for Understanding and Embracing Asperger’s, Autism Spectrum Disorder and Neurodiversity, by Harold S. Reitman, M.D.
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…
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.
It’s a Wonderful Life: Autism and the Holidays
Alicia Palelis offers some basic tips for autism parents to help get through the holidays season - and still enjoy it!
The Club of True Neurodiversity Champions
It was at the end of July, and I’d had a good day at the U.S. Autism and Asperger Association’s national conference in Tuscon, Ariz. From my spot at the author’s table, I had met many wonderful people in the autism community...
Navigating Adult Life and Autism with a SMILE
When our son Matt graduated from high school in 2013, his daily routines and patterns, developed for years within the same safe, supportive environment, came to an end. We asked ourselves, how can we fill 168 hours each week with meaningful, purposeful activities and not allow Matt to slide backwards.
College football player with Asperger’s did the ‘impossible’
Justin Hansen is a fifth-year defensive lineman for the Colorado State University Rams football team. He has 36 career tackles and hopes to play in the NFL. Doesn’t have to be the active roster, he’ll take the practice squad. Just to prove he can.
Autism Coaching in the Neurodiverse School System
I am a wife, daughter, mom to a son and daughter, a breast cancer survivor, a friend to many and an autism coach.
Small business celebrated for defending employee with autism
By Peter Bochner The owner of an Anchorage, Alaska, restaurant is being overwhelmed with congratulatory…
Production of The Nutcracker meets sensory needs of children with autism
By Peter Bochner Over the past few years, sensory-friendly dance performances that are specifically geared…
Rutgers announces initiative to launch center to support adults with autism
Rutgers University is launching an initiative to establish a center that will give adults with…
“Sesame Street” Joins Growing List of Shows with Autistic Characters
By Peter Bochner Sesame Street has become the latest television show to introduce a character…
Giving Autistic Kids Superpowers via Google Glass
By Peter Bochner Researchers at the Stanford University are using Google Glass to help autistic…
The Birth of the Chocolate Spectrum
By Valerie Herskowitz How I ended up here is a great mystery to me, because…
Apple ResearchKit Software Enables New Studies of Autism and Epilepsy
By Peter Bochner Apple ResearchKit, an open source software framework that makes it easy for…
At UCLA, young adults with autism build social skills
By Peter Bochner The Los Angeles Times recently wrote about nine UCLA students, the majority…
