The Autism Dad

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Welcome to "The Autism Dad" podcast, hosted by Rob Gorski — a single father to three remarkable autistic children and the voice behind a widely-read blog that has been a lifeline for parents since 2010. With over a decade of firsthand experience, Rob's insights have not only impacted families worldwide but have also been featured on platforms like The Tamron Hall Show, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, CNN, and Entrepreneur Magazine. Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for fresh episodes that delve into the complex world of autism and special needs parenting. This podcast serves as a safe haven, offering a blend of personal stories, expert interviews, and actionable advice. Whether you're a parent navigating the nuanced challenges of raising a neurodivergent child or simply someone looking to better understand the realm of autism, "The Autism Dad" podcast provides understanding, support, and education for all. Don't go this journey alone; tune in and become part of a community committed to awareness, acceptance, and growth.

Recent Episodes
  • Aria’s Kid-Friendly Minecraft Movie Review (S8E11)
    Apr 16, 2025 – 22:53
  • Gavin’s Journey to Independence (S8E10)
    Apr 9, 2025 – 21:02
  • Special Needs Financial Planning (Part 1) – Building the Foundation (S8E09)
    Apr 2, 2025 – 31:21
  • Before He Could Speak (S8E08)
    Mar 26, 2025 – 21:03
  • The Importance of Validation in the Autism Community (S8E07)
    Mar 19, 2025 – 08:27
  • Navigating Divorce with Neurodivergent Kids (Part 2) S8E06
    Mar 12, 2025 – 41:31
  • Navigating Divorce with Neurodivergent Kids pt 1 (S8E05)
    Mar 5, 2025 – 54:05
  • The Unbreakable Boy: A Father’s Journey with Scott LeRette (S8E04)
    Feb 26, 2025 – 36:33
  • Navigating Grief with Neurodivergent Kids (S8E03)
    Feb 19, 2025 – 47:39
  • The Power of SPARK: How Autism Research is Changing Lives (S8E02)
    Feb 12, 2025 – 54:52
  • How Telehealth is Changing Autism Evaluations (S8E01)
    Feb 5, 2025 – 52:24
  • Navigating Autism: Building Inclusion (S7E44)
    Dec 11, 2024 – 01:21:14
  • Autism and Transitioning to Adulthood (E7E43)
    Dec 4, 2024 – 59:33
  • Growing Up with My Autistic Brother (S7E42)
    Nov 27, 2024 – 50:13
  • Angelman Syndrome: One Dad’s Story (S7E41)
    Nov 20, 2024 – 33:34
  • Exploring Modern ABA Therapy with Sarah Pearson (S7E40)
    Nov 13, 2024 – 30:21
  • Autism, Anxiety & Adulthood: My Son’s Journey to Independence (S7E39)
    Oct 30, 2024 – 17:52
  • Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Anthony Pacillio (S7E38)
    Oct 23, 2024 – 45:08
  • Understanding ADHD with Dr. Robert Melillo (S7E37)
    Oct 17, 2024 – 53:10
  • Navigating Autism as a Dad: Joel Pearlman’s Journey (S7E36)
    Oct 10, 2024 – 34:10
  • One Autism Dad’s Journey Towards Acceptance (S7E35)
    Oct 2, 2024 – 34:57
  • Autism and ARFID: One Family's Journey (S7E34)
    Sep 18, 2024 – 37:01
  • Autism and Independent Living (S7E33)
    Sep 11, 2024 – 37:07
  • Understanding Autism in Girls (S7E32)
    Sep 4, 2024 – 39:03
  • Balancing Motherhood, Autism, and a Thriving Career (S7E31)
    Aug 28, 2024 – 53:17
  • Unlocking Math Success for Kids with Special Needs (S7E30)
    Aug 21, 2024 – 35:18
  • Navigating Autism, Picky Eating, and the School Year (S7E29)
    Aug 7, 2024 – 32:39
  • Meltdowns vs Shutdowns: A Conversation with Meghan Bailey (S7Ee28)
    Jul 31, 2024 – 32:38
  • Enhancing Safety and Independence: Assistive Tech for Autism with Melissa Schiefelbein (S7E27)
    Jul 24, 2024 – 45:03
  • Understanding Comorbid Diagnoses in Autism (S7E26)
    Jul 3, 2024 – 31:12
  • Understanding ARFID: Insights from Michelle of My ARFID Life (S7E25)
    Jun 25, 2024 – 54:59
  • Autism Parenting Challenges and Strategies (S7E24)
    Jun 18, 2024 – 41:15
  • Accessible Meditation for Neurodivergent Kids (S7E23)
    Jun 11, 2024 – 16:56
  • Zaneta Barton’s Autism Parenting Story (S7E22)
    Jun 4, 2024 – 33:37
  • Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) S7E21
    May 28, 2024 – 32:38
  • Autism Parenting Perspectives (S7E20)
    May 21, 2024 – 34:33
  • Empowering Neurodivergent Learners: Inclusive Tools and Free Resources (S7E19)
    May 14, 2024 – 20:10
  • Travel Planning for Special Needs Families (S7E18)
    May 9, 2024 – 26:03
  • Expert Tips For Navigating Dental Care for Kids with Autism (S7E17)
    May 7, 2024 – 42:31
  • A Day in the Life of an Intervention Specialist (S7E16)
    May 2, 2024 – 39:42
  • Supporting Dads in the Autism Community (S7E15)
    Apr 30, 2024 – 34:04
  • Ohio’s Blueprint for Developmental Disabilities (S7E14)
    Apr 17, 2024 – 26:21
  • Group Homes and Shenanigans (S7E13)
    Apr 16, 2024 – 21:13
  • Bridging Autism and Employment (S7E12)
    Apr 11, 2024 – 53:11
  • Talking About Tough Stuff (S7E11)
    Apr 4, 2024 – 38:25
  • Autism Parenting Q&A with Emmett (S7E10)
    Apr 2, 2024 – 33:39
  • Make'm Smile Ohio 2024
    Mar 28, 2024 – 14:38
  • Adulting with Autism (S7E08)
    Mar 26, 2024 – 29:34
  • Understanding Apraxia and Non-Speaking Autism (S7E07)
    Mar 21, 2024 – 41:37
  • The Evolving Journey of 3 Autistic Brothers (S7E06)
    Mar 19, 2024 – 29:15
Recent Reviews
  • Nora :)))))
    For one thing, some of these reviews are WILD
    I’m an autistic child and I’m on the higher functioning side of the spectrum, my brother is not however. It’s interesting to see how different the disorder is in everyone and i appreciate the episode mentioning girls and boys with autism, since I didn’t get diagnosed till I was 12. Thank you <333
  • Mike (Pennsylvania)
    A Therapeutic Listening Experience
    Since I’m a father of two autistic children, I can relate to Rob, especially when he opens up emotionally in front of his guests about the struggles of raising kids with ASD. When the guests are parents, I love how they open up too as that emotional transparency shatters that unnecessary stigma.
  • Axarring
    He’s the Real Deal
    I love Rob’s heart for helping families around the topic of autism. His show never disappoints!
  • peablossomfairy
    Great support
    I stumbled across The Autism Dad blog first a few years ago when we were in the beginnings of my son’s ASD diagnosis. At the time I felt very lost and raw because I really had no clue. I fell in love with his blog for being a real snap shot in what it is like to be a special needs parent. The podcast has so many episodes with wonderful view points (I especially love hearing from his kids because they are speaking directly from their own personal experiences having ASD) and he also tries to present as many resources possible to parents (like myself) who are in the early years. Thank you for this! You have given me strength and insight as a fellow special needs parent.
  • spodgirlruns
    Informative
    The Autism Dad shares tons of useful information. In addition, he educates us as to the theories/opinions he supports as well as the nature of opposing theories/opinions.
  • Kokke123
    Informative and helpful
    Various topics, balanced opinions. You can tell rob really puts thought into his questions and also gives his human side and emotions. Good. I listen frequently.
  • KathryninMadison
    Helpful
    Great to hear real talk from a family and he has lots of great info to share.
  • Erynelyzabeth
    Great
    Always like hearing different view points and ideas, some don’t listen to more than one podcast before they think they know everything he is about and review obviously. Always so positive and uplifting to other families.
  • Lynnieb23
    Treasured Resource
    So many episodes to check out with various viewpoints. Thankful Rob has gone above and beyond to help parents advocate, feel supported and just not alone in this journey.
  • CCC-SLPLiz
    Disappointed
    It's disappointing to listen to get another podcast promoting the pseudoscience that is S2C. How about considering interviewing a SLP with an opposing viewpoint, willing to share the research and facts as opposed to opinion?
  • NicoleMartinez22
    Great podcast!
    Absolutely love listening to your podcast!
  • SarahAtherton
    An honest and heartfelt podcast
    So glad I found you on Instagram! Thank you for sharing your life and giving us a glimpse into your experience. Amazing dad, sons and podcast.
  • Donkanut
    Who needs a Pen Pal when you have a Parenting Pal?
    So happy that I discovered this podcast. Dad and Emmett give me hope, comfort, and that feeling of not being alone with the most important role in my life… being a Parent to the most important human in the world, my Daughter. All of the episodes have something special and meaningful to think through. So happy I discovered this podcast after years of episodes. I’m blowing right through them!
  • Kellybertie
    Rob is absolutely amazing!
    The autism community is so lucky to have his support, advocacy and community!
  • J.J 2020
    Amazing
    Thank you so much for doing this! I have a grandson that will be three in January He just went for his evaluation yesterday, and he checks the boxes on every single thing, except for the fact that he is social and shows love So they told my daughter and Fatima, because of that he doesn’t have autism That was a got punched to all of us and we’re going to get another opinion, of course I just listened to your most recent podcast with you and your son Everything that you guys talked about just because he can’t speak does not mean he doesn’t understand We are so careful about what we talk about I sent that video to my daughter and son-in-law and told them they have to listen
  • stud-t wife
    Wow! Just found your podcast!
    Cannot wait to dive in and listen! Thank you! From a fellow Autism (and Epilepsy) family. Great work guys!🙌🏼💪🏼
  • UP girl 1234
    Excellent podcast!
    Love this podcast! Rob is a compassionate, insightful interviewer. The podcast is informative, relatable, and encouraging. I especially enjoyed his recent podcast that included a Q&A with his son. highly recommend.
  • She Who Rides Far
    Such a great message
    I’m so glad Rob has used the power of the microphone to shed more light on this important message. His podcast is so informative. I have learned so much from him and you can just feel how much he cares. Lovely listening!
  • shadow kat
    Not a true advocate for parents of autistic children
    Podcast owner claims to support other parents of autistic children yet is shutting down a popular Autism Parenting Reddit forum in favor of his own Facebook monetization. The community is losing a treasured resource thanks to this man’s greed.
  • Gen nova
    As a parent who did ABA for three years
    There is a more nuanced conversation about ABA that needs to happen. This is presented as a therapy like a medical therapy like speech or PT or OT. The majority of therapy is done by people that might have a high school degree. Is not regulated like most therapy. And lot more points I’m not going to get into, not mob talking points but facts about the inherent flaws of behavioralism overall. A lot of stuff you guys talked about I do agree with but all ABA is not equal .I agreed the no shame in grieving the life you thought you would have ,it is self care and something you need to do to get past it and be ready for the new journey for your kids. I’m happy for anyone who this works for and hope you are not feeling attacked by this comment. But there is a big problem with how ABA is presented to parents and pushed on them. .
  • DianaAutismMD
    Well Done Autism Dad!
    Just recently found you and your podcast on LinkedIn. I’ve been following and listening. Great content, interesting conversations and much needed perspective from a dad who is rockin’ this autism journey.
  • me51653
    Grandmother of a boy newly diagnosed with autism.
    I also am a retired special education teacher who has worked with children from one end of the spectrum to the other. Great podcast!
  • Author Aaron Wright
    Great podcast
    Raw & Real.
  • Annie Hines
    So Real! So Grateful!
    So honored to be on Rob’s show and talk about this important issue of distance learning versus homeschooling. Most importantly, Rob is the real deal and his honestly and bravery in sharing his journey with all of us helps us all make it through the day.
  • LadyJamsley
    Thank You
    Thank you for sharing your story and providing so many more perspectives on parenting autistic children. You are rocking it! Keep up the awesome work!
  • horiblespeller
    It’s like a review...
    RE THE G-NIFFER REVIEW I’m happy to hear you decided against your drinking game. It would be a great loss for humanity if you were to experience liver failure and die leaving us without your signature hard-hitting insightful and constructive reviews. I really appreciated your tone in this review; the way you don’t hold anything back or concern yourself manners shows a lot of integrity. I think it’s important that people like you are out there to demoralize people who think that just because they are providing content for free out of the goodness of their hearts during their meager spare time that they will be excused from producing anything less than professional level content. If your Neanderthal brain managed to catch on to that sarcasm then perhaps you will be capable of using the wisdom from a great review I once read to revise your own review into something that doesn’t read like it was written by a sociopath. To paraphrase the aforementioned review, read your own review and read the mistakes and then come back. PODCAST REVIEW Thanks for making this podcast. Hearing your kids is especially helpful to get some insight as to what might be going on under the surface since my son is only three and doesn’t speak well (he mainly repeats a catalogue of phrases and it often doesn’t make sense to me). Also, I appreciated that you opened up about struggling to juggle everyday things while raising kids with autism. It feels like every day is a struggle just to get him to eat something and get him dressed and change his diaper and we are just fighting to make it to bedtime with the least meltdowns possible. I can really relate when you talked about having no energy at the end of the day to get anything done while piles of laundry and dishes grow higher and the constant flow medical bills go unpaid for several notices because we don’t have the money to pay right away and then they get lost in the clutter because our son scatters them all over house like he eventually does with everything in the house. Your episode on meltdowns and sensory issues was particularly helpful. I was always frustrated with my wife’s approach of giving him new meals if he wouldn’t eat what we gave him. I thought if he was hungry enough he would eat and it’s painful for me when so much food goes to waste while I’m struggling to make enough money to get by. It’s good to know that my wife is making the right decision by persistently trying to find something that is palatable for him given that it is a sensory issue. My son is an inscrutable little boy. He often tells me to go away when I get home from work for some reason. However, I was relieved to hear that your sons don’t like to be touched or verbally comforted during meltdowns either as it is has been quite difficult to have all of my heartfelt attempts to comfort him be so sharply rebuked by him in these traumatic moments when I want to care for him so badly. Hopefully one day my son will be able to communicate with me like your sons do with you. I know my son has a lot of potential and I have actually found his autism diagnosis last month to be a great blessing because it is helping me to understand him but God help me, I have been so lost for so long.
  • G-Niffer
    It’s like a podcast led by Foghorn Leghorn
    Constant repeating of words and too many ‘ums’ to handle. I thought about making a drinking game of it but decided that my liver couldn’t handle it. Listen to your own recordings and to the mistakes and then come back.
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