Autism Learning Lab Podcast

In this edition of the Autism Learning Lab Podcast, Chris chats with Kay Rodgers, a clinical psychology doctoral student at Mercer who specializes in working with neurodivergent clients. Kay shares how fashion psychology can help autistic people express themselves and build confidence. Drawing from her own experience and clinical work, Kay explains how clothing can become a meaningful tool for sel...

What if personal growth is less about fixing what’s missing—and more about discovering what you uniquely bring to the world? In this Autism Symposium Edition, Chris sits down with Dr. Danny Recio, program director and co-founder of The Bridge Costa Rica and New Summit Academy, to discuss neurodiversity, identity, and creating safe spaces for autistic young adults to explore, grow, and discover the...

Chris sits down with Dr. Eric Endlich, clinical psychologist, certified educational planner, and founder of Top College Consultants, to discuss what neurodivergent students and their families need to know before making the transition to higher education. They explore independent living skills, self-advocacy, college accommodations, and practical ways parents can gradually help their child build co...

Chris sits down with Chris Heys, Head of School at Hampshire Country School, to discuss what true school readiness really means. Together, they explore why readiness is about far more than compliance. They show how parents and educators can recognize when a child is struggling and why relationships and trust are essential for meaningful learning. They also discuss the importance of self-advocacy,...

Chris Blankenship invites therapist Regan Adair to discuss the unique challenges autistic adolescent girls who are often diagnosed later in life face. They explore the impact of chronic pain, sensory differences, shame, and years of being misunderstood. Regan shares how listening deeply, believing clients' lived experiences, and collaborating across disciplines can dramatically improve qualit...

Chris chats with Kellyn Smythe, Director of Admissions at Pacific Quest and a father navigating autism in his own family. Kellyn shares his personal journey of his son’s early feeding struggles and eventual autism diagnosis. This conversation offers an honest look at the realities many families face. However, this episode offers hope with Kellyn reflecting on how perspective shifts over time expla...

In this episode of the Autism Learning Lab Podcast, host Chris Blankenship sits down with occupational therapist and Mountain Valley Treatment Center Executive Director Zachary Schafer to discuss sensory processing challenges in adolescents. Together, they explore the remarkable power of neuroplasticity and explain why it's never too late to support meaningful change. Zachary challenges the c...

In this episode of the Autism Learning Lab Podcast, Chris Blankenship discusses the complexities of autism diagnosis and treatment with Neil Wallace the director of Spark. They discuss the challenges of ever emerging autism labels and how those labels can impact care, identity, and outcomes. Neil also shares insights on rigidity, PDA, and why diagnosis should guide treatment, not define a person....

Chris Blankenship sits down with podcaster and relationship advocate Gina Kavali for an encouraging conversation about the life-changing power of human connection in the neurodivergent community. Through her program Table Talks, Gina has helped countless adults on the autism spectrum build confidence, develop social skills, and even form meaningful romantic relationships. Together, Chris and Gina...

In this special conference edition of the Autism Learning Lab podcast, recorded during the Autism Symposium in Georgia, host Chris Blankenship is joined by Tony Meiners and Trish Ruggles for a conversation about “lazy diagnosing,” autism misdiagnosis, and the long-term impact of mismatched mental health treatment—especially for autistic women and high-masking adults. Together, they discuss how aut...

Live from the 2026 Autism Symposium, host Chris Blankenship welcomes Dr. Jack Hinman, founder and admissions director of Engage Transitions in Cedar City, Utah, to discuss the benefits of transitional living and therapy for neurodivergent individuals. Dr. Hinman shares how Engage Transitions supports neurodivergent young adults by providing opportunities to explore hobbies and connect with nature—...

In this episode host Chris Blankenship talks with Dr. Will White -  author, podcast host, and the Director of Enrollment at The Trade. They explore the value of trade careers and why they can be a meaningful, practical path for young autistic individuals. Resources:   Autism Learning Lab: https://www.autismlearninglab.com/ Email: chris@autismlearninglab.com Stories from the Field: A Wilderness The...

Chris welcomes special guest Harry Psaros—a father, autism advocate, and bestselling author of From Struggle to Strength: A Father’s Journey with Autism and the Power of Hope and Positivity . Harry also serves as an executive neuroscience account specialist with AbbVie and sits on the board of directors for the Autism Caring Center. Driven by a mission to amplify the voices of fathers in the autis...

In this episode of Autism Learning Lab, host Chris Blankenship sits down with Dr. Minh Nguyen, DO, board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Cedar Integrative Psychiatry, for an insightful conversation on what psychiatric care can look like for neurodivergent individuals. Together, they explore what to expect from a first-time appointment, address common fears surrounding medication, and discuss...

In the 24th episode of the Autism Learning Lab, host Chris Blankenship discusses the relationship between autism and dietary struggles with nutrition therapist and intuitive eating counselor Estee Glikman. Glikman explains how biology, sensory processing, and neurotransmitters all play a role in the challenges neurodivergent individuals face when eating. She not only provides science-based insight...

Chris chats with 15-year-old Kincaid, a passionate theater kid and film making enthusiast. Kincaid reflects on his experience with autism—starting with his initial diagnosis, addressing misunderstandings, and discovering his love for performing arts and videography. With humor and insight, he discusses hyperfixations, the getting involved in inclusive communities, and his belief that a diagnosis s...

Chris welcomes Dr. Kristen Williamson—a “neuro-spicy” licensed professional counselor, behavior health consultant, and unapologetic champion for neurodivergent minds. Dr. Williamson shares her expertise alongside her personal journey of navigating life as a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD professional. Chris and Kristen dive into how autism presents in women, the challenges of masking, and the un...

Chris sits down with Dr. Sam Shay—a neurodiverse clinician, functional medicine expert, and stand-up comic—who brings over 25 years of experience to the table. Dr. Sam shares his groundbreaking Neuroharmony Model, designed to help neurodiverse adults and families create balance in an often overwhelming world. Together, they discuss the relationship between physiology and psychology, the importance...

Chris welcomes Rob Meltzer—founder of Northlight Family Services and New Terrain Consulting, certified Gestalt therapist, and educational planner—for a deep dive into the intersection of autism, wellness, and metabolic health. Rob shares how his own health journey led him to explore functional medicine and epigenetics, and how those insights are transforming the way we approach support for autisti...

Chris welcomes Brandon Moffitt—executive director of Black Mountain Academy and Intrepid Young Adults—to talk about the importance of connection for autistic youth. They discuss the repeated struggles many autistic individuals face when trying to form relationships—and how these setbacks can take a toll on self- esteem. Brandon offers guidance to parents on how to support their children in navigat...

In this episode, Chris welcomes Paula Leslie—an experienced counselor, parent coach, and therapeutic placement specialist with over 30 years in the mental health field and a parent of a child with autism. Paula shares her personal and professional journey, reflecting on the early signs of autism, the challenges of navigating diagnoses, and how to advocate effectively for meaningful support. Togeth...

Chris welcomes Tracy Markle, founder and co-director of the Digital Media Treatment and Education Center (DTECH) and Collegiate Coaching Services. Tracy brings over 30 years of mental health experience and specializes in helping individuals and families navigate digital media overuse and addiction. Together, Chris and Tracy dive into the unique challenges the autism community faces with gaming add...

Chris is joined by Dr. Tony Issenmann—licensed therapist, leadership consultant, and founder of Systemic Solutions Coaching—for a thought-provoking discussion on autism in the workplace. They explore how hiring autistic employees benefits organizations, not just through accommodations, but through deeper, second-order changes that improve culture, retention, and overall team performance. This epis...

Chris is joined by Dr. Katie Gaebler, founder of AutismNERD (Neurodiverse Education Resources of Denver), to the show for an important conversation about preparing and supporting autistic teens and young adults as they transition to life after high school. Dr. Gaebler explains that when considering the true “price” of attending college, it is essential to look beyond just financial costs. She high...

Chris welcomes Dr. Ingrid Boveda, Founder of The Hive Psychological Services and co-owner of Cogenuity. As a testing psychologist, Dr. Boveda works with neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults across the country. Through her work with Cogenuity, she partners with schools and treatment programs nationwide to offer low-cost brain mapping and neurofeedback services. In this episode, Chris an...