Episodes
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On this week’s episode, Montoya Rogers is back to share her personal parenting journey raising her autistic son. We talk about her journey to acceptance and the path she followed to help her son. We also discuss her non-profit, Puzzle Mom. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Puzzle Mom is devoted to empowering mothers of minority children diagnosed with autism.
About Montoya Rogers:
Montoya L. Rogers is a Community Marketing Representative for CareSource of Ohio. Montoya is a licensed Health & Life insurance agent. She has successfully sustained a 10+ year career in the health insurance industry. As an avid leader, Montoya has a passion for serving the community and helping others. She is a trailblazer and a dynamic advocate for the nonprofit industry.
Montoya was born in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Reynoldsburg high school. She obtained her Community Health Worker certification from The Ohio State University. Montoya is the proud mother of two children Amya and Tre. Tre was diagnosed with Autism at the age of six. While navigating the diagnosis and advocating accommodations for her son, Montoya founded the non-profit organization Puzzle Mom. The mission of Puzzle Mom is to empower minority mothers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, to become effective advocates for their children through education, support, and community resources. Montoya is committed to create autism awareness within under-served communities throughout Ohio.
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad Ohio podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com
Mentioned in this episode:
Today’s Sponsors:
Aceing Autism
ACEing Autism provides tennis programs for children on the autism spectrum aged 5 to 18, focusing on growth, social skills, and physical fitness. Tailored to individual needs with one-on-one volunteer support, the program includes weekend sessions and offers scholarships for accessibility. It aims to build confidence and social connections, with extended support available beyond age 18. More information can be found at aceingautism.org.
Learn More About Mightier:
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.
Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order. -
In this weeks episode, Becca Mitchner is here to talk about Camp Nuhop. Camp Nuhop is located in Perrysville, Ohio. They provide an amazing summer camp experience for neurodivergent youth. While most kids are from Ohio, some travel from across the country to spend time here. This episode will discuss what the camp has to offer. Whether or not it’s a good fit for your family, and how to get it funded.
About Becca Mitchner:
Becca Mitchner is the Co-Director of Summer & Respite Programs at Camp Nuhop. She graduated from Murray State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Outdoor Recreation and Nonprofit Leadership Studies. She continued at Murray State to obtain a Masters's Degree in Human Development & Leadership with emphases in Environmental Education and Autism Studies in 2015. Becca found a passion for working with children at a young age and enjoys helping campers create a positive and empowering experience at Camp Nuhop.
Find Camp Nuhop:
Social Media
Facebook.com/CampNuhop
Insta- @Nuhop
https://nuhop.org/
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad Ohio podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com
Today's Sponsors
Aceing Autism
ACEing Autism provides tennis programs for children on the autism spectrum aged 5 to 18, focusing on growth, social skills, and physical fitness. Tailored to individual needs with one-on-one volunteer support, the program includes weekend sessions and offers scholarships for accessibility. It aims to build confidence and social connections, with extended support available beyond age 18. More information can be found at aceingautism.org.
Meerkat Village
Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.
They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.
For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com
Kinjo
Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.
Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”. -
Missing episodes?
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Join me as I chat with Gary Tonks, the President and CEO at The Arc of Ohio - the state's premier organization for disability advocacy. Discover the essence of The Arc, and learn how families in Ohio can tap into their invaluable services at no cost. Dive into the myriad ways The Arc stands as a beacon of support in this episode.
About Gary Tonks:
Gary Tonks is the president/CEO of The Arc of Ohio in Columbus, the state’s oldest and largest grassroots organization representing individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their families.
About the Arc of Ohio:
The Arc of Ohio is the voice of people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends of people with disabilities, and those who work with them. The Arc of Ohio is a grassroots organization which advocates for human rights, personal dignity and community participation of individuals with developmental disabilities through legislative and social action, information and education, local chapter supports, and family involvement.
The Arc of Ohio
Facebook
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com
Today’s Sponsors:
Aceing Autism
ACEing Autism provides tennis programs for children on the autism spectrum aged 5 to 18, focusing on growth, social skills, and physical fitness. Tailored to individual needs with one-on-one volunteer support, the program includes weekend sessions and offers scholarships for accessibility. It aims to build confidence and social connections, with extended support available beyond age 18. More information can be found at aceingautism.org.
Meerkat Village
Being a special needs parent often requires a superhuman ability to manage a ton of different things all at once. Between work, school, doctor appointments, therapies, our own self-care, and everything else life can throw at us, it can be tough to manage all these things. Don’t even get me started on trying to keep everyone communicating with each other. That’s where Meerkat Village can help.
They say it takes a village and this is especially true for special needs families. Meerkat Village is a platform for android and iOS that helps to keep everyone in your village communicating and coordinating their efforts to support your child. Whether you’re tracking your child’s progress at school or brainstorming new strategies to help with behavioral concerns, Meerkat Village keeps everyone connected, and on the same page. It's all done inside one, easy-to-use, HIPAA and FERPA-compliant app.
For more information, visit meerkatvillage.com
Kinjo
Kinjo transforms Roblox from mere gaming to a valuable learning platform. Aiming to make each gaming moment both fun and educational, Kinjo provides expert-reviewed content through seamless integration with a child's Roblox account. Games undergo rigorous evaluation by specialists, with top-rated ones receiving a 'Flames' rating for their educational quality. While playing, children earn Kinjo Coins, turning in-game accomplishments into tangible rewards. While kids enjoy the engaging content, parents gain insight into their child's gaming activities. Beyond being an app, Kinjo represents a leap in educational gaming, blending entertainment with deep learning. The basic version is free, with a premium Kinjo Plus option offering added benefits.
Explore the future of gaming at theautismdad.com/Kinjo and get a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad”. -
I interviewed my friend Rick Miller, owner of Special Needs Living Magazine (Akron & Canton). Special Needs Living Magazine exists to celebrate the amazing special needs families in Stark and Summit counties, in Northeast Ohio. It’s beautifully done, absolutely free, and loved by so many people. This is the story behind this amazing magazine.
About Rick Miller:
Rick is a husband, and father of three amazing kids, as well as the owner of Special Needs Living Akron & Canton.
Free Digital Subscription
Special Needs Living Magazine
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com
Today’s Sponsors:
Aceing Autism
ACEing Autism provides tennis programs for children on the autism spectrum aged 5 to 18, focusing on growth, social skills, and physical fitness. Tailored to individual needs with one-on-one volunteer support, the program includes weekend sessions and offers scholarships for accessibility. It aims to build confidence and social connections, with extended support available beyond age 18. More information can be found at aceingautism.org.
Learn More About Mightier:
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.
Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
In this episode, we explore the critical role of health insurance for special needs families in Ohio, focusing on CareSource, a leading Medicaid provider. Our guest, Montoya Rogers, wears two hats: she's both a CareSource representative and an autism mom. Tune in to hear an insider's perspective on how CareSource is equipped to meet the healthcare needs of special needs families.About Montoya Rogers:Montoya L. Rogers is a Community Marketing Representative for CareSource of Ohio. Montoya is a licensed Health & Life insurance agent. She has successfully sustained a 10+ year career in the health insurance industry. As an avid leader, Montoya has a passion for serving the community and helping others. She is a trailblazer and a dynamic advocate for the nonprofit industry.Montoya was born in Columbus, Ohio. She graduated from Reynoldsburg high school. She obtained her Community Health Worker certification from The Ohio State University. Montoya is the proud mother of two children Amya and Tre. Tre was diagnosed with Autism at the age of six. While navigating the diagnosis and advocating accommodations for her son, Montoya founded the non-profit organization Puzzle Mom. The mission of Puzzle Mom is to empower minority mothers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, to become effective advocates for their children through education, support, and community resources. Montoya is committed to create autism awareness within under-served communities throughout Ohio.Learn more about CareSource by clicking here.About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.comMentioned in this episode:Kaboose:Are you or someone you know autistic or neurodiverse? Then you've got to check out Kaboose. It's not just an app; it's a safe community where you can find and interact with friends who really get you. When you se up your profile, you can list your special interests—whether that's gaming, Dr. Who, animals, or even crocheting. Kaboose uses these interests to match you with like-minded people.Worried about cyberbullying? Kaboose is building out a sophisticated AI tool designed to monitor for it because safety is a top priority. And their vision doesn't stop there; they're planning features for skill-building, mentoring, and job matching too.For our younger friends under 13, just talk to your parents first. If you’re concerned about screen time? Remember, this is more than just an app; it's a safe space where your neurodivergent kiddos can genuinely be themselves, connect with others and feel accepted. That’s so important because everyone deserves to feel accepted.. And hey parents, that goes for you too. Kaboose is a great way for you to connect with other parents and find support as well.So why wait? Download the at kaboose.app and start building your tribe today.Quiet Mind:Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, an innovative tool for easing anxiety, stress, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder symptoms. This compact alternative to weighted blankets is created by Mikey Goldman, who himself deals with ADHD and anxiety. It's a portable companion, providing an instant calming effect. Unlike large weighted blankets, this soft, easy-to-move pillow won't make you too hot or claustrophobic. Using Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), it offers the benefits of weighted blankets in a smaller, portable format, ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. Consider it a stress ball for your body - hold it, hug it, and let your mind relax.For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15%
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In this episode, I’m joined by Kathryn Bryan, a Special Needs Financial Planner based in Northeast Ohio. Kathryn dives into the essential topic of planning for the future when you have a child with a disability. From utilizing government benefits to specialized trust funds, Kathryn provides invaluable insights to help secure a strong financial future for your family, regardless of your situation. If the idea of financial planning is overwhelming or you think it’s impossible, this episode is for you.
About Kathryn Bryan:
Kathryn Bryan, Ph.D., originally from Medina, Ohio, is a behavioral neuroscience graduate with a diverse career trajectory. After completing her B.S. in psychology at Baldwin Wallace University and later her M.A. and Ph.D. from Kent State University, she worked as a postdoctoral research fellow at various esteemed institutions. Eventually, she shifted gears to financial planning and joined Skylight Financial Group. Specializing in various planning groups, she works with physicians, scientists, families with special needs, businesses in transition, and the LGBTQ community.
Katy has received multiple accolades including Skylight's Rising Leader Award and has been actively involved in community service. She serves on several boards and is particularly involved with organizations focused on aging and special needs. She was recognized by Crain’s Cleveland Business as a "Forty Under 40" honoree in 2016 and was a contestant in the Cleveland Leadership Accelerate in 2021. She is married to Mark and they have two children.
Contact Kathryn Bryan: Click Here
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com
Mentioned in this episode:
Kaboose:
Are you or someone you know autistic or neurodiverse? Then you've got to check out Kaboose. It's not just an app; it's a safe community where you can find and interact with friends who really get you. When you se up your profile, you can list your special interests—whether that's gaming, Dr. Who, animals, or even crocheting. Kaboose uses these interests to match you with like-minded people.
Worried about cyberbullying? Kaboose is building out a sophisticated AI tool designed to monitor for it because safety is a top priority. And their vision doesn't stop there; they're planning features for skill-building, mentoring, and job matching too.
For our younger friends under 13, just talk to your parents first. If you’re concerned about screen time? Remember, this is more than just an app; it's a safe space where your neurodivergent kiddos can genuinely be themselves, connect with others and feel accepted. That’s so important because everyone deserves to feel accepted.. And hey parents, that goes for you too. Kaboose is a great way for you to connect with other parents and find support as well.
So why wait? Download the at kaboose.app and start building your tribe today.
Quiet Mind:
Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, an innovative tool for easing anxiety, stress, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder symptoms. This compact alternative to weighted blankets is created by Mikey Goldman, who himself deals with ADHD and anxiety. It's a portable companion, providing an instant calming effect. Unlike large weighted blankets, this soft, easy-to-move pillow won't make you too hot or claustrophobic. Using Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), it offers the benefits of weighted blankets in a smaller, portable format, ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. Consider it a stress ball for your body - hold it, hug it, and let your mind relax.
For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15% -
Nicole White from Instagram's Raising Raymie returns to share her insights on helping autistic kids make transitions and adjust to new routines. Using real-life examples from preparing her son for the new school year, Nicole offers practical tips and strategies for parents. Tune in to arm yourself with the tools you need to make your child's transitions smoother.
About Nikki White:
Nikki is a wife and mother of 3. She created the Raising Raymie pages to help further autism acceptance in honor of her 5 year old son Raymie, who was diagnosed with severe non-speaking autism and all those just like him. She was recently published in The Gratitude Journal created by Amanda Owen, for Mom's of children with disabilities trying to find joy in the tough days.
Facebook
Instagram
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://theautismdad.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More About Mightier:
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.
Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
In this week's episode, I speak with Lisa Morrison. Lisa is a mother to 3 autistic kids, as well as Co-Founder and President of Integrated Community Solutions, Inc. ICS is a nonprofit based in Medina Ohio. She’s here to talk about her journey as a parent, as well as all the free resources, and social enrichment programs ICS provides for people with developmental disabilities in Northeast Ohio. We also talk about an exciting housing development she building for people with developmental disabilities.
About Lisa Morrison:
Lisa is the Co-Founder, President, and Treasurer of Integrated Community Solutions, Inc. Being the parent of three young adults with autism, she recognized the need for community-based housing options for individuals with developmental disabilities that provide permanence and security, and foster individual growth and independence.
She is committed to developing a safe and enduring community that will offer a broad range of social engagements, training and educational opportunities, and peace of mind for individuals living with developmental disabilities and their families.
In 2016, Lisa was appointed as a board member of the Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities. She was drawn to serve the agency that is such a vital source of support in her children’s lives. Lisa also is an adjunct faculty member of the Psychology Department for Cuyahoga Community College, the University of Akron, and Lorain County Community College. Lisa has volunteered with the Special Olympics and other social engagement groups in the surrounding area.
Integrated Community Solutions
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad and Special Needs Ohio podcasts:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
https://theautismdad.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More About Mightier:
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.
Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
This week, join us as we dive deep with Laurie Cramer, Executive Director of The Autism Society of Greater Akron. From her heartfelt experiences as a parent to an autistic child, to the pivotal changes needed to uplift the autism community, this conversation is both enlightening and inspiring. Learn about the incredible ways the Autism Society is making a difference locally. Don’t miss out!
About Laurie Cramer:
Laurie Cramer is the executive director at the Autism Society of Greater Akron. Laurie started at ASGA in 2011 and was the very first staff member in what had been up to that point an all-volunteer parent organization. Previously, she was a long-time volunteer at ASGA and served as president of the board of directors. Laurie has a bachelor’s degree in communications from Florida State University and a master’s degree in organizational development from George Washington University.
Laurie and her family moved to Akron from Washington, D.C. in 2003. At that time, her family learned that their two-and-a-half-year-old son had autism. From that point forward, life changed forever for her and her family. Laurie’s drive and passion to support a better life for individuals on the autism spectrum comes from her family’s personal journey raising a child with autism.
Laurie currently resides in Fairlawn with her husband, Gregg, and their two sons, Philip and Robbie.
Visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron
About Rob Gorski and the Special Needs Ohio podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.specialneedsohio.com.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Quiet Mind:
Introducing The Original Weighted Pillow by Quiet Mind, an innovative tool for easing anxiety, stress, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder symptoms. This compact alternative to weighted blankets is created by Mikey Goldman, who himself deals with ADHD and anxiety. It's a portable companion, providing an instant calming effect. Unlike large weighted blankets, this soft, easy-to-move pillow won't make you too hot or claustrophobic. Using Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), it offers the benefits of weighted blankets in a smaller, portable format, ideal for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorder. Consider it a stress ball for your body - hold it, hug it, and let your mind relax.
For more information, visit onequietmind.com and use the code “theautismdad” at checkout to save 15%
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
On this week's podcast, join me as I sit down with Brett Powell. After my conversation with Jamie Lewis Smith last week about her autism parenting experiences, Brett steps in to share the story of how he and Jamie united their families, offering his personal perspective on the journey.
About Brett Powell:
Brett Powell has always been passionate about helping the special needs community. He spent several years working as a behavior coach and support to adults with developmental disabilities. As luck would have it, he fell in love with the mother of an autistic child and, eventually, they became a family. Brett possesses a unique perspective as someone who has worked with the special needs community navigated dating a parent of a child with developmental disabilities, blended families, and is now raising an autistic child.
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.theautismdad.com.
The Autism Society of Greater Akron:
The Autism Society of Greater Akron is once again holding two Step Into Autism walks and resource fairs to support individuals and families living with Autism in northeast Ohio. This event attracts some 1,000 people and raises important dollars for ASGA’s programs like providing a free HelpLine for information and referral to local services, scholarships for every family in their water safety program and bike camp, social clubs for individuals with Autism, and many other ongoing education and community-based programs..
This next part is really important. All money raised here stays here! The ASGA provides many important programs and services that support, educate, and advocate for people living with developmental disabilities and their families in Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne, and Medina counties.
The Summit County walk is Saturday, June 10, at Lock 3, in Akron, and the Stark County walk is Saturday, August 12, at the McKinley Museum, Canton. To learn more, register a team, donate, or become a sponsor, please visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron.
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
On this week’s episode, we learn all about my friend Jamie Lewis Smith’s experience, raising her autistic son. We talk about the challenges and the victories. We also talk about what blending families with her partner Brett has been like. Next week, I talk with Brett and learn what this journey has been like for him, from his perspective.
About Jamie Lewis Smith:
Jamie Lewis Smith, Ph.D. is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and the founder and CEO of Pixel Leadership Group, a leadership and organization development firm based out of Youngstown Ohio. She is a contributing member of the Forbes Coaches Council, a published author, and an international speaker on the topics of leadership, assessment, and change. Most importantly, Jamie is the mom of an awesome geography-loving autistic 8-year-old, Beckett, who can tell you what every country’s railroad crossing sounds like (yes, they are different). With a strong desire to support the autism community, she became a Board Member of Milestones Autism Resources, an Ohio-based nonprofit that improves the lives of autistic individuals and their families through education and evidence-based strategies for school, home, community, and at work.
About Rob Gorski and The Autism Dad podcast:
Rob Gorski is a single Dad to three amazing autistic boys and Found and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. Multiple award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, social media influencer, and respected public figure for well over a decade.
Connect with Rob Gorski: https://listen.theautismdad.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Autism Society of Greater Akron:
The Autism Society of Greater Akron is once again holding two Step Into Autism walks and resource fairs to support individuals and families living with Autism in northeast Ohio. This event attracts some 1,000 people and raises important dollars for ASGA’s programs like providing a free HelpLine for information and referral to local services, scholarships for every family in their water safety program and bike camp, social clubs for individuals with Autism, and many other ongoing education and community-based programs..
This next part is really important. All money raised here stays here! The ASGA provides many important programs and services that support, educate, and advocate for people living with developmental disabilities and their families in Summit, Stark, Portage, Wayne, and Medina counties.
The Summit County walk is Saturday, June 10, at Lock 3, in Akron, and the Stark County walk is Saturday, August 12, at the McKinley Museum, Canton. To learn more, register a team, donate, or become a sponsor, please visit The Autism Society of Greater Akron.
Goally:
Goally is a comprehensive app, serving as a digital scheduler, AAC speaker, and token board system. Designed for unique thinkers like autistic and ADHD kids, it helps them master daily routines and therapy without parental reminders, reducing nagging and promoting self-management. Goally can be used on your child's device or an affordable, dedicated device, which we've found more effective in our home.
For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order. -
Welcome to "The Autism Dad Ohio," I’m Rob Gorski. Building on the success of my award-winning blog and podcast, "The Autism Dad”, this localized edition supports Ohio families on their autism parenting journeys. As a single dad of three amazing autistic kids, I've been the go-to resource for parents navigating neurodivergence across the globe since 2010.
"The Autism Dad Ohio “connects you with essential resources, education, and support that will help you on your journey. You’ll also hear inspiring stories from families just like yours, all across Ohio, reminding you that you’re not alone.
So Don't miss out — new episodes drop every Friday. Subscribe on your favorite podcast listening app and visit theautismdad.com for more information.
