Why are so many kids being diagnosed with neurological disorders today? Dr. Robert Melillo, bestselling author of Disconnected Kids, breaks down the science behind the rise in autism, ADHD, and anxiety — and what parents can do to help. Learn practical tips from The Melillo Method and how understanding brain imbalances can transform how we support our children. Sponsored by Dr. Robert Melillo and The Melillo Method.

Website: www.drrobertmelillo.com

LinkedIn: @robert-melillo-a287b618b

X: @DrRobMelillo

Facebook, Instagram, & YouTube: @DrRobertMelillo

Today, we’re talking about something deeply personal: early autism screening and intervention. Our own 13-month-old is currently going through the process, and we want to share what that looks like, how it feels as a parent, and why early support matters—even if you're unsure or still waiting on a diagnosis.

Whether you're just noticing signs or you’ve already started the referral process, this episode will walk you through:

What early intervention actually is,

What we’re experiencing right now with our toddler, and

Why starting early doesn’t mean labeling—it means helping.

Support our mission & unlock perks, become a member today: patreon.com/autismwish

What if your child’s passion for art, media, or tech could become a real career? In this episode, we sit down with Diane Strand—founder of a groundbreaking program helping autistic youth and adults land real jobs in the creative industry.

We’re talking jobs that light them up, work environments that get them, and a future full of possibility. We answer:

🔥 How she’s breaking barriers in employment 🎥 Why autistic strengths thrive in creative fields 💡 What YOU can do to set your child up for success

This is the roadmap every autism parent needs—don’t miss it!

Website: jdscreativeacademy.org

As the school year winds down, many of us are left wondering: What now? In this episode, I walk you through how to check in on your child’s IEP before summer break hits. Whether you’re gearing up for Extended School Year (ESY) services, planning summer support, or just trying to make sure your child doesn’t lose progress, this is your step-by-step guide to wrapping up the year with intention — and setting up for a smoother transition back in the fall.

Support our mission and unlock perks, Become A Member Today: patreon.com/autismwish

What if the key to understanding autism isn’t in behavior… but in the brain itself? In this enlightening conversation, Dr. David Amaral of the UC Davis MIND Institute reveals the one topic that could change everything: brain donation. It’s sensitive. It’s rarely discussed. But it could unlock answers we’ve been searching for. Discover what brain donation actually looks like, how it honors the autistic community, and why this conversation matters more than ever.

Follow Dr. David Amaral -

Website: www.autismbrainnet.org

Facebook and X: @AutismBrainNet

Email: info@autismbrainnet.org

We’re answering your real-life parenting questions—from potty struggles to public stares—and announcing April’s Embracing Autism Grant winner, chosen from our Patreon members. Plus, important updates about how the grant and newsletter is changing starting in June 2025.

Support our mission and unlock 5 bonus entries today, Become A Member: patreon.com/autismwish

Is your child really speaking through someone else—or are you being misled? Today, we tackle the hot-button issue of facilitated communication (FC) and the explosion of pseudoscience in the autism world, especially after the viral success of The Telepathy Tapes podcast. Joining us is Dr. Katharine Beals—autism expert, linguist, and mother to an autistic child—who helps us cut through the noise. Learn what FC really is, why it's so controversial, and how to protect your family from misinformation disguised as progress. This is a must-listen for any parent trying to separate evidence-based practice from viral hype.

Website: www.facilitatedcommunication.org

Social Media: @katharinebeals.bsky.social

Ever feel like your social life disappeared the moment you became an autism parent? You’re not alone — and you’re not a bad friend. In this episode, we get real about the hidden struggles no one talks about: canceled plans, isolation, misunderstood boundaries, and the guilt that tags along. If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to “just hang out” anymore, this one’s for you. Listen now to feel seen — and maybe even a little less alone.

Support our mission and unlock perks by becoming a member today: patreon.com/autismwish