Autism Weekly Podcast

Sam Mitchell started his podcast at 17 after finding his voice in his high school media club. Today he’s the founder and president of Autism Rocks and Rolls, a podcast, nonprofit and business built on a simple message: he’s not broken, and he doesn’t need to be fixed.

Host Jeff Skibitsky and Sam talk about why “levels” can put autistic people in a box, and why being blunt has been both a strength and a challenge for him. Sam also shares a moment at PodFest when he and his mom helped a scared father see what’s pos...

Many families worry about what will happen if they call police for help with their autistic child or loved one. This week, Jeff Skibitsky talks with Officer Laurie Reyes and Officer Amy Stoughton (Ret.) of the Montgomery County (MD) Police Department’s Autism/IDD, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Outreach Unit. They explain what really happens on those calls, how families can prepare, and why calling 911 right away is the most important step.

Laurie created the unit in 2004 to address a rise in “missing at risk” calls. It is now recognized as a national model by the National Center f...

What should families do in the first weeks and months after an autism diagnosis? Host Jeff Skibitsky talks with Dr. Erica Bailen, a board-certified pediatrician who combines conventional pediatric medicine with functional medicine training. Through a direct pediatrics model, she gives families longer visits, direct access, and a whole child approach to care.

Dr. Bailen explains why she reminds every family that their child is the same child they were the day before the diagnosis, and why care should start with strengths. She covers what to focus on first, from finding a neuro-affirming medical home to getting...

This week, Jeff sits down with Camille Proctor, Founder and Executive Director of The Color of Autism Foundation. Camille started the foundation in 2009 after a long fight to get her son diagnosed and after support groups where no one looked like her. Today it's a national resource for Black families navigating diagnosis and services.

Camille talks about why Black children are often diagnosed later or misdiagnosed, and what it's like to wait months to get from diagnosis to services in underserved communities. She shares what providers get wrong when they make assumptions instead of asking families who...

For most autistic people, the supports end at 21 or 22. The friendships, the structure, the built-in reasons to be around other people, all of it was attached to a school system that stops.

Dr. Rachel Loftin has spent her career with the people on the other side of that line. She is chief clinical officer at Prosper Health, which she helped found and which is now the largest provider of mental health services for autistic adults in the country. She is also on faculty in the psychiatry departments at Northwestern and Yale.

In this episode, she...

Most parents know their kid plays video games. Far fewer could name the game. Andrew Fishman, LCSW, says that gap is where the nightly fights start.

Andrew is a licensed clinical social worker who works with teens and emerging adults, writes about video games and mental health for Psychology Today, and is the author of Parenting A Gamer: Help Your Child Build Healthy Habits, Make Positive Choices, and Find Balance in Virtual Worlds. He has led social groups for autistic teens and adults, and he is a lifelong gamer himself.

In this conversation with host...

Most kids in the U.S. aren't diagnosed with autism until after age 4, long past the window when early intervention makes the biggest difference. The problem isn't that clinicians don't care. It's that a traditional evaluation can take six to eight hours end to end, and there aren't enough specialists to go around.

This week, Jeff sits down with Dr. Cheryl Tierney, a board-certified, fellowship-trained developmental pediatrician, professor of pediatrics at Penn State, and Chief Medical Officer at EarliPoint Health. For more than 25 years she has evaluated and diagnosed children with autism, learning, speech-language, attention, and sleep...

The UNC researcher behind the Black Empowerment and Autism Network on bias, access, and building care systems that actually fit families.

Autism research has historically been built on a narrow slice of the population. Dr. Brian Boyd argues that gap is not just an academic problem. It shows up as later diagnoses, thinner services, and worse outcomes for the families who were never in the data.

In this episode, Dr. Boyd joins host Jeff Skibitsky to talk about founding the Black Empowerment and Autism Network (BEAM), now close to 70 members across research, medicine, and clinical...

This week on Autism Weekly, host Jeff Skibitsky sits down with Amy Kelly, National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux and mother of three, including her daughter Annie, who was diagnosed with autism just before her second birthday. With nearly 20 years working directly with families and a career built out of her own experience navigating the system, Amy brings both professional expertise and lived experience to a conversation about what real inclusion looks like.

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This week we're joined by Dr. Mary Jane Weiss, a psychologist and board certified behavior analyst who has spent her career advancing the science of applied behavior analysis and its application to autism. Dr. Weiss serves as executive director of programs in ABA and autism and directs a Ph.D. program in the field. Her work focuses on the philosophical and scientific foundations of ABA, ethical decision-making in professional practice, and collaboration across disciplines. Today we'll talk about what compassionate, humane, and effective ABA actually looks like in practice. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week we're joined by Dr. Marilena Griguoli, a neuroscientist whose research is helping us understand something that sits at the very heart of autism: how the brain processes social experiences and builds social memory. Dr. Griguoli's work, funded by the Autism Research Institute, is looking at the specific brain circuits involved in social behavior and how they can be supported. Social connection is one of the most meaningful and complex areas for autistic individuals and their families. Today, we are exploring what the science reveals about why. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week we're joined by Dr. Tana Carson, Assistant Professor of Occupational Therapy at Florida International University, and Dr. Tania Santiago Perez, Associate Teaching Professor in Recreational Therapy, also at FIU. Together, they're doing something that has never been done at this scale: building an evidence-based swim instruction program specifically designed for children with autism, and training the next generation of therapists to deliver it. Download latest episode to learn more!

Resources

https://ymcasouthflorida.org/special-needs/

https://discovery.fiu.edu/display/person-carson-tana

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This week we're joined by Dr. Lauren Moskowitz, a clinical psychologist and researcher at St. John's University who studies something so many families know firsthand: the intersection of autism and anxiety. For many autistic children and teens, anxiety isn’t just a side challenge. It can be one of the biggest barriers to daily life, school, friendships, and feeling like they belong. Dr. Moskowitz and her team have developed a therapy program specifically designed to treat anxiety and other mental health challenges in autistic individuals. Today we're getting into what that looks like and what families can do right no...

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Brandon Ito, a psychiatrist, educator, and advocate specializing in LGBTQ+ mental health and reducing healthcare disparities. As a UCLA Health LGBTQ Champion and leader in medical education, Dr. Ito is dedicated to fostering inclusive and equitable care. Today, we’ll explore the intersection of diverse identities within the autism community, focusing on sexual and gender diversity and the mental health disparities many face. Download the latest episode to learn more!

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Social Media Handle: UCLA Tarjan Center: @uclatarjancenter

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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown, a pioneering researcher at Arizona State University whose work is changing how we understand the connection between gut health and autism. Dr. Krajmalnik-Brown and her team were the first to show that changing the gut microbiome can actually change behavior and improve autism-related symptoms in people with autism. This is a conversation for every family, every caregiver, and anyone who has ever wondered if what's happening in the gut might be connected to what's happening in the brain. Download latest episode to learn more! 

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This week we're joined by Lexus Johnson, a BCBA who is doing really meaningful work with her clients every day. Lexus is passionate about something that doesn't always get the spotlight it deserves; making sure that kids aren't just learning skills, but learning to communicate who they are, what they need, and what they're okay with. Today we're talking about functional communication, life skills, and what it really means to put a child's voice at the center of their care. Download latest episode to learn more!

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What's actually happening in the brain when an autistic individual struggles to shift gears, adapt to change, or break out of a repetitive thought pattern? This week, host Jeffrey Skibitsky sits down with Dr. Lucina Uddin, neuroscientist and director of the Brain Connectivity and Cognition Laboratory at UCLA, to explore one of the most important and least-discussed topics in autism research: cognitive flexibility.

Dr. Uddin breaks down how brain networks switch between internal thinking and external awareness, what happens when that switching system gets overloaded, and why some autistic individuals get stuck in a loop even when...

This week, we’re joined by Christopher Carazas, a Paraguayan-American writer whose journey spans continents, cultures, and a lifetime of resilience. Diagnosed as autistic in adulthood, Christopher has navigated the challenges of masking, emotional recovery, and finding his voice after years of silence. His memoir, Now That I’m Still Here, shares a powerful story of survival and hope. Today, we’ll discuss his experiences, the healing power of storytelling, and how to foster inclusion. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Susan Williams White, a renowned clinical psychologist, researcher, and advocate for evidence-based interventions. Dr. White’s work focuses on helping individuals manage intense emotions and anxiety, with a special emphasis on youth with autism. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Shulamite Green, an Assistant Professor at UCLA and licensed clinical psychologist specializing in autism, sensory processing, and neurodevelopmental conditions. She leads the UCLA SCAN lab, where her research focuses on how the brain processes sensory information during adolescence. Today, we’ll discuss her findings and how they’re shaping new interventions. Download latest episode!

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Their study is currently recruiting children ages 7-15 across the autism spectrum to participate in a study of sensory processing at UCLA. More information can be found on our website: Click Link here!

UCLA B...

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Lauren Kenworthy, a leading expert in the field of autism and executive functioning. Dr. Kenworthy is the author of Unstuck and On Target, a school-based intervention program proven to help children on the autism spectrum develop critical executive functioning skills. Today we will be discussing how executive functioning impacts learning and daily life for autistic individuals, as well as practical strategies to support these skills at home, in school, and beyond. Download latest episode! 

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Lauren Kenworthy, Ph.D. 
Pediatric Neuropsychologist
Chief, Division of Pediatric Neuropsychology

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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Brooke Ingersoll, a leading autism researcher and Director of the MSU Autism Research Lab. She’ll be sharing insights on parent-mediated interventions, Project ImPACT, and the RISE study. These topics offer valuable support for families and individuals in the autism community. Download latest episode to learn more!

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Project Impact Resources
Link to the official Project Impact website or resources where families can learn more about the program, access materials, and explore training opportunities.
2. MSU Autism Research Lab
A link to Dr. Brooke Ingersoll's research lab a...

This week, we’re joined by Jill Escher, president of the National Council on Severe Autism, a dedicated advocate, autism research philanthropist, and mom to two children with nonverbal autism. Jill has spent her life working to support individuals and families affected by severe autism. 

She’s funded important research, provided housing for adults with developmental disabilities, and raised awareness about the challenges faced by the autism community. Today we will be discussing severe autism, the rising prevalence of autism, the need for long-term care and housing, and better access to treatments for severe behaviors. Download latest episo...

This week, we’re joined by Alix Generous—an autistic advocate, entrepreneur, scientist, and PhD student in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. Alix has used her unique perspective to drive innovation in science, technology, and neurodiversity-affirming practices. Today we will be discussing her journey, how reframing autism as a difference can inspire better support systems, and her passion for creativity, resilience, and inclusion. Download latest episode to learn more!

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instagram: https://www.instagram.com/generousalix/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GenerousAlix/

My musical “Boogie Woogie & Bugle Boys”: https://cur8.com/22420/project/133958

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This week, we’re joined by Clara Garcia, Director of Programs, and Melissa Cardona, Senior Resource Specialist at the Autism Society of Inland Empire. Clara brings decades of experience in inclusion and program development, while Melissa, a parent of two children on the spectrum, is passionate about supporting families and building connections. 

Together, they’ll share insights on fostering inclusion, creating sensory-friendly programs, and meeting the needs of the autism community. Download latest episode to learn more!

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Home - Autism Society Inland Empire

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This week, we’re joined by Dr. Matthew Lerner, a leading researcher and advocate for neurodivergence-affirming practices. Dr. Lerner is the Director of the Social Connections and Treatment Lab at Drexel University, where his work focuses on improving social development and creating inclusive, participatory interventions for neurodiverse individuals. Today, we’ll explore how these practices can empower autistic individuals and their families while fostering meaningful social connections. Download latest episode to learn more!

Resources

A.J. Drexel Autism Institute | A.J. Drexel Autism Institute | Drexel University

Home | Autism Outcomes | Drexel University

Soci...

This week, we’re joined by Rose Griffin, a speech-language pathologist and board-certified behavior analyst with over 20 years of experience. In her last visit, we explored how speech and ABA therapy work together; be sure to check out that episode, which we’ll link to this one. Today, Rose will share practical speech therapy strategies for autistic children, the importance of joint attention, and how families can support communication growth. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week, we’re joined by Jenna Kokoski, a BCBA with over 20 years of experience in the ABA field. Jenna is the COO of Jade Health and a leader in the ABA community, known for her advocacy, expertise, and dedication to creating ethical and sustainable business models. She’s here to talk about the importance of accreditation in ensuring quality care in ABA, what families should look for in a provider, and how accreditation benefits both families and individuals with autism. Download to learn more! 

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Jade Health’s Suite of Offerings Include:

BHCO...

This week, we’re joined by Ron Souers; an ADHD advocate, podcast host, and author who’s dedicated his life to empowering adults with ADHD to embrace their differences and unlock their true potential. Ron is the voice behind the podcast “Don’t Mind Me, I’m Different!”, where he shares raw and relatable stories about living with ADHD and depression, and he’s also the author of The Self Discovery Journal for Adults with ADHD. 

In this episode, Ron will share his journey, offer practical advice for families raising neurodiverse kids, and show us how ADHD can be a superp...

This week, we are joined by Dr. Amy Keefer, a board-certified psychologist at Kennedy Krieger’s Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation and assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Keefer is a leading expert in autism and anxiety research, and she’s here to discuss an exciting clinical trial called DINOSAUR, which focuses on a novel anxiety treatment for 4-6-year-old autistic children. Download latest episode now to learn more!

Resources

Check out study flyer: https://8717295.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/8717295/DINO_StudyFlyer_7.25.pdf

DINO Trail: https://www.kennedykrieger.org...

This week, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Kang, an Assistant Professor at Montclair State University whose groundbreaking research bridges science and practice to improve autism interventions. We’re also thrilled to welcome Dr. Sadaf Khawar, a postdoctoral researcher whose award-winning work focuses on the barriers South Asian and MENA families face in accessing autism services. 

Together, we’ll discuss how cultural and structural factors shape access to care and share practical advice for families navigating these challenges. Download latest episode to learn more!

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NEURO LAB

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This week, we are joined by Colleen Katzenmoyer, the newly appointed vice president of education services at Devereux, one of the nation’s largest nonprofit providers of behavioral healthcare. Dr. Katzenmoyer brings nearly 20 years of experience in education and behavioral health, and she’s here to share how her new role will enhance services for families, schools, and communities nationwide. Download episode to learn more!

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This week, we are joined by Vijay Ravindran, founder of Floreo and an inspiring innovator in the world of autism technology. Vijay’s journey as an autism father, combined with his impressive career at companies like Amazon and The Washington Post, led him to create groundbreaking virtual reality tools that are transforming how individuals with autism learn and grow. Today, we’ll discuss how AI and VR are shaping the future of autism support. Download latest episode to learn more! 

Resources 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vijayravindran/

https://x.com/vijayravindran

https...

This week, we are joined by David Geslak, also known as Coach Dave, a pioneer in using exercise to support individuals with autism. He’s the founder of a fitness program taught in nine universities and has partnered with the American College of Sports Medicine to create the Autism Exercise Specialist Certificate. David has dedicated his career to empowering the autism community through movement.  

Today, we’ll discuss how exercise supports development, share strategies for daily routines, and highlight the global impact of his work. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week, we are joined by Dr. Dena L. Gassner, Senior Research Scientist at AJ Drexel, autism advocate, and member of the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC). Dena is rewriting the narrative around autistic identity, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for gender diversity and inclusivity in autism research and policy. 

Her personal journey as a proud autistic mother adds a deeply relatable perspective to her work, and she teaches through storytelling to inspire and inform. Download episode now to learn more!

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[email protected]

facebook-https://www.facebook.com/CenterforUnderstanding

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This week, we welcome Dr. Diana Robins, professor and director at the AJ Drexel Autism Institute. Renowned for her work on early autism detection and the development of the M-CHAT, Dr. Robins has helped countless families access earlier diagnoses and crucial interventions. Join us as we explore early detection, strategies to support development, and exciting advancements in autism research. Watch now to learn more!

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This week we’re discussing "The Power of Listening and Mentorship Programs" through the Making Mentors program. This initiative pairs autistic college students with high school students to foster connection, growth, and empowerment. Joining us are Kristen Gillespie-Lynch, Taylor (T) Abbatemarco, Louis Rotondo, and Rita Strickland to share how mentorship and peer support are transforming the autistic community. Download episode to learn more!

Resources

College Autism Network: https://collegeautismnetwork.org/

College Autism Summit: https://collegeautismnetwork.org/event/college-autism-summit-2025/

Project REACH: https://www.cuny.edu/about/administration/offices/student-affairs/programs-services/disability/projectreach/

This week, we are joined by Rachelle Vartanian, founder of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center. Inspired by her own parenting journey, Rachelle has dedicated her work to empowering individuals with autism. Today, we’ll discuss autism advocacy, job training, clinical services, social programs, housing solutions, and much more. Download the latest episode now to learn more!

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This week, we are joined by Dr. Scott Price, a renowned professor of music and pioneer in inclusive piano education. Dr. Price has dedicated his career to teaching students with autism and empowering families through the power of music. Today, we will discuss how music can unlock potential, foster growth, and bring joy to children with special needs. Download latest episode to learn more!

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This week, we are joined by Amy Kelly, the National Director of Family Engagement at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, and her son, Danny Kelly. Amy brings her professional expertise and heartfelt insights from raising three children, including her daughter Annie, who has profound autism. Danny joins us to share his perspective as a sibling, his role in the Devereux Sibling Engagement Committee, and the lessons he’s learned supporting Annie and navigating family life. Download latest episode to learn more!

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