Autism Rocks and Rolls

I'll be talking about task completion distress in this episode. I begin by explaining what task completion distress is and why it's difficult to manage because, in my view, you probably don't know about it unless you personally have autism.  Additionally, because I discuss the distinction between task completion discomfort and simple laziness, I stand up for those who experience it. I additionally...

Today, I know someone who would be an ideal guest to Autism Rocks And Rolls. That person's name is Dr. Joe Lockavitch. Dr. Joe Lockavitch has worked with students who still struggle with reading for more than forty years as a special education teacher, special education specialist, school psychologist, and university professor. He is a researcher with over a dozen research released in national and...

This exclusive episode of Autism Rocks and Rolls features a crossover between your favorite host and Eddie Beeley from The Open Table Podcast. First, Eddie and I discuss how Autism Rocks And Rolls is similar to the Open Table Podcast, particularly in terms of where the tables come together. Additionally, Eddie and  I discuss our disparate experiences and the sources of our divergent viewpoints. We...

My main topic for this episode is what it's like for anyone with autism to drive. I start by outlining the reasons why driving might not be appealing or essential for those with autism.  I also discuss the parents' experiences and the symptoms of their anxiety. I also go into the anxiety that people with autism face and the causes of their fear of driving. Furthermore, I discuss how someone with a...

I talk about board and card games in this episode. The first and most significant topic I discuss is the benefits of board and card games for people with autism. Additionally, I explain the specific rules that can be taught to individuals with autism while playing board and card games. I even provide the parents with instructions on how to teach a board or card game to a person with autism. I also...

My concept on this episode is focused on prioritization. First, I explain to my audience why this managerial functioning skill is challenging when "we see it as equally important" and "everything as urgent." I will also share a video that listeners should view because it explains how to prioritize their mental health. I additionally tell you which priorities are "seasonal," meaning that they occur...

Today I have a talented professional as a guest: Oliver Graves. Oliver is referred to as a "goth comedian" because of the extreme contrasts in his clothing and makeup. Oliver is a comic who has given performances at clubs and events all around the country. Oliver's weekly article for the Argus Courier, "Oliver's World," was recognized in 2021 by the esteemed California Journalism Awards. Oliver ha...

Come along as I discuss the "levels" of autism in this new episode.  Additionally, I explain why we shouldn't use the term "levels" and who is at fault when we do. I also go over each understanding of autism and the ways to help someone who has it. Additionally, I let my audience know who should and shouldn't be aware of your personal understanding of the autism spectrum. Lastly, I provide stories...

Today's visitor is Kristina Avritt, whom I met at a podcasting hosting event. After meeting her and learning that she also has a son with autism, I knew she was a perfect match for Autism Rocks And Rolls. Kristina is a co-host of the Bringing Education Home podcast and founder of Vibrant Family Education, which explores educational concepts and family success. With over thirty years of experience...

We are back with the final segment of the Total Drama Specials. The final part  focuses on Total Drama Pahkitew Island, its fifth branch. In this episode, I talk about what happened during Total Drama All Stars, which resulted in Total Drama Pahkitew Island. I also talk about the new aspects and characters included in Total Drama Pahkitew Island, in addition to how they relate to autism and other...

We're back with the fifth part of the Total Drama Specials. The fifth chapter centers around Total Drama All Stars, the fourth spinoff. In this episode, I discuss what transpired in Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, which created Total Drama All Stars. I also speak about the elements and returning characters on Total Drama All Stars, in addition to their connection to autism. Finally, I describes...

We are back with the fourth part of the Total Drama Specials. The fourth segment focuses on Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, Total Drama's third spinoff. In this episode, I explain what transpired throughout Total Drama World Tour to enable Total Drama Revenge Of The Island. I also discuss the nuances and new characters that appear only in Total Drama Revenge Of The Island, along with how they c...

With our third season, we will continue to broadcast Total Drama specials. The third part addresses Total Drama World Tour, Total Drama's second spinoff. In this episode, I recount what happened in Total Drama Action that made Total Drama World Tour possible. I also explain the factors and one of the three characters who only appear in Total Drama World Tour, as well as their relationship to autis...

The second part of the Total Drama specials is continuing. The second section discusses Total Drama Action, the first Total Drama offshoot. I will discuss what transpired on Total Drama Island to bring about Total Drama Action in this episode. Additionally, I explain the components unique to Total Drama Action and their connection to autism. Finally, I address the challenges inspired by movies and...

We're going on a different path because I've chosen to produce a six-part special about Total Drama, one of my childhood favorite television programs. I begin the episode by outlining Total Drama Island's concepts and comparing it to reality competition shows like Fear Factor and Survivor. I also discuss the series "outsider energy." I also discuss the conflict and how it connects to the chaos we...

Matthew Williams, a Canadian Special Olympic athlete, will be my guest on this episode of Autism Rocks and Rolls. After hearing about his address to my mother's eighth graders, I was certain he would show up. For twenty years, Mr. Williams participated in the figure skating division of the Canadian Special Olympics. His notoriety grew to the point where he competed for Canada in the 2015 and 2017...

Today's guest is Michael Pereira, the owner of The Autism Voyage. After 10 years at a company in America, high-stakes negotiations, and climbing the corporate ladder, Michael Pereira had everything figured out. Everything abruptly altered in 2022 when his son was diagnosed with autism. "What happens to my son when I'm not here?" became the most crucial question for him. Michael started The Autism...

Betsy Wurzel, an acquaintance of Autism Rocks and Rolls, is my guest today. Betsy is a qualified practical nurse and a former teacher's assistant. Her child, Josh, is on the autism spectrum and has a cognitive impairment. She also looked after her mother-in-law, who had Alzheimer's. That custom continued after her spouse, Matt, was also given an early-stage Alzheimer's diagnosis in 2010. She has t...

My new friend Missy Brown will be here with me for this episode. Her experience working with both child and senior populations in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, allows her to work simultaneously with clients and behind the scenes in creating programs and support. Her true interest is helping those with unique needs, especially those who have autism and Alzheimer's. She discusses her efforts in her book...

I'll talk about how people with autism behave in big places in this episode. I start by discussing what constitutes a space and what locations qualify as large spaces. I also discuss how families should never tell their children, "You'll get used to it." In addition, I share with my audience the positive and negative aspects of large environments for people with autism. Lastly, if a person with au...

Today, I'm going to have Terry Bursey as my guest on Autism Rocks and Rolls. Terry (T.C.) Bursey, a full-time single father in Dover, Newfoundland and Labrador, is an educated journalist, culinary writer, public speaker, autism educator, advocate for himself, and writer. Mr. Bursey has always placed a high value on writing. He urges other authors to see being an author as a reward in and of itself...

Today's episode focuses on Leila Farschian. Leila Farschian is at the intersection of education, technology, and social impact with over 25 years of knowledge of behavioral therapy and autism education. holding a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Columbia University's Teachers College in addition to being a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Licensed Special Educator. Her early p...

In this episode, I dive into the topics of autism looping and echolalia. I start by explaining what both of these are and how they’re similar yet different from one another. I also share a personal daily experience that inspired me to discuss this topic. Throughout the episode, I talk about how looping and echolalia can actually help people with autism build social skills. I also speak directly to...

Gab Eato, a supporter of individuals with autism and ADHD, will be the guest on this episode. Ms. Eato, a 26-year-old neurodiversity advocate, philanthropist, and digital visionary, is transforming the way people think about inclusivity on the internet. Eleable, the world's first Digital Design Psychology firm, was founded by her. It combines mental health, imagination, and accessibility to develo...

I have two guests for you. Starting off is Sourena Vassenghi, the incredible individual  who finds joy in life despite having cerebral palsy and being wheelchair-bound. Mr. Vassenghi is a parent and husband in addition to his duties as a writer and company entrepreneur. I also bring his closest companion, Chris Stevenson, who performs on stage with Sourena and speaks all over the world about custo...