The Need for Community and a Supportive “Tribe” for Fathers of Autistic Children
Release Date: 08/20/2023
When Career Collides with Fatherhood
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
What happens when years of neurodiversity advocacy collide with the reality of raising an autistic child? In this episode, Paul talks with Charles Kransberger, a neurodiversity expert and father, about his journey and insights. They explore practical strategies for supporting autistic children, planning for the future, and creating meaningful opportunities at home, in school, and in the workplace. Plus, Charles shares his vision for a more inclusive world—and what parents and organizations can do today to make it real. Charles personal journey as a neurodiversity advocate ...
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The Cost of Waiting: Why Families Can’t Delay Planning for Their Autistic Child’s Future
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
What happens when families procrastinate planning for their autistic child’s future? In this episode, Paul sits down with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage® and father of a neurodivergent child, to uncover the hidden risks families face when they delay essential steps in planning for their child’s future. Too often, parents focus on surviving today’s demands, therapies, school meetings, and daily care, without realizing how unprotected their family may be if something happens tomorrow. Together, Paul and Michael discuss why true planning isn’t just about the child’s...
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Silent Struggles: Fatherhood, Autism, and the Power of Connection
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In this episode, Paul sits down with Jett Stone, a leading psychologist specializing in men’s mental health, to explore the unique emotional challenges faced by fathers of autistic children. Often overlooked in the broader conversation, these fathers frequently navigate their journeys in isolation—quietly bearing the weight of uncertainty, stress, and profound love for their children. We’ll discuss why community and connection matter, and how breaking the silence can foster resilience and connection. Together, Jett and Paul shine a light on the importance of friendship, shared...
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Autistic Adults in the Workplace: Challenges & Solutions
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In this episode, Paul is joined by Michael Szafron, a Vice President of Sales & Operations who was diagnosed with autism at age 41. They dive into the real-life challenges autistic professionals face at work—from getting hired to moving up the ladder—and share honest insights on navigating workplace relationships, culture, and career growth. Michael and Paul will discuss the following: how the hiring process impacts autistic applicants common workplace challenges for autistic workers how autistic workers can navigate workplace relationships and cultures the challenges of...
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What Dads need to know about dating for their autistic teens and young adults
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In this episode, Paul is joined by Jodi Carlton, a leading world expert in mixed neurotype relationship dynamics and communication. Her YouTube channel - Neurodiverse Relationships - has amassed 15,000 subscribers and 1,000,000+views of its video content. Jodi and Paul discuss the following: -understanding the unique relationship dynamics within the autism community -how autistic teens can build self-confidence and self-esteem -navigating the online dating worlds -how autistic teens can spot "red flags" -how Dads can support their autistic daughters and sons with...
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When Your Autistic Child Meets Law Enforcement: A Parent’s Guide to Traffic Stops
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In this episode, Paul interviews Stefan Bjes, Founder of Blue Line Spectrum Safety and a patrol sergeant with 19 years of experience in the greater Chicago area. Stefan is also the father of two autistic sons. We’ll explore a critical topic for parents of autistic children: how to prepare them for interactions with law enforcement, particularly during traffic stops. Together, we’ll discuss strategies to help your child remain calm, communicate clearly, and manage sensory sensitivities when faced with flashing lights or loud sirens. We’ll also cover the importance of role-playing these...
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Your role as the father of an autistic child….why it matters….and why you matter
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
Yep, we’re going there, going deep into the pure messiness of being the father of an autistic child. In this solo podcast, Paul goes deep and vulnerably into all the areas where fathers are challenged, particularly with all the different roles that these amazing Dads play every day. Paul discusses the following roles: Surprise, surprise! you’re a human being first before your role as a Dad Okay, let’s now discuss your role as a father Your role as spouse / partner Your role as a friend (and supportive Dadvocate)
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Your True Self is Enough - Lessons Learned Parenting a Child with Autism
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In this podcast, Paul interviews Susanna Lovell, Life Coach and author of the recently-released book - Your True Self Is Enough: Lessons Learned on My Journey Parenting a Child with Autism". Susanna shares her journey of navigating through the worry and heartbreak of raising a special needs child. She ultimately finds her true life calling: to help other parents find and realize joy and passion in their own lives. Episode outline: Paul and Susanna discuss the following: Susanna's journey as a single mom Susanna's struggle with postpartum...
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One Mother's Journey with Autism
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
In thisepisode, Paul interviews Manisha Lad, who is the Founder of The Sensory Pathway Center in New Jersey. Just in time for Mother's Day, Manisha shares her journey as the mother of an autistic son, and how it propelled her to found her own non-profit to help other moms (and Dads) on their autism journeys. Paul and Manisha discuss the following: Akhil' s diagnosis at a very young age What Manisha learned about Akhil and his autism Akhil’s broken silence: a new journey begins Managing emotions and remaining positive during difficult times How Akhil's insights helped...
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A Father's Journey with Autism, Love, & Grief
The Autism Dadvocate podcast
Within the autism community, parents often navigate the complex comorbidities associated with autism, including mental health issues. The latest Autism Dadvocate podcast shares one father’s journey with autism, love and ultimately - grief. My guest is this episode is Robert Hubbard, whose latest book - Scenes with my Son - shares his courageous story. Paul and Robert discuss the following: Robert's journey as a father with his son's autism diagnosis How Auggie's autism progressed as a child and as a teenager Auggie's comorbidity with mental health Robert's...
info_outlineOur current US Surgeon General – Vivek Murthy – recently stated that loneliness in the U.S has become epidemic, and is as detrimental to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Within the autism community, this isolation is particularly pervasive amongst fathers of children on the spectrum……
In this episode, Paul and Andrew Horn, CEO of Tribute and Executive Men’s Coach, discuss the following:
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Why isolation, disconnectedness and loneliness is so prevalent amongst men in our society
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Why addressing isolation and seeking a community matters…..
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Strategies and tips for addressing isolation and loneliness
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3 steps to making deeper connections
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“Go first”
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“Authenticity & vulnerability”
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Persistence and tenacity - meaningful connections do take time