All Autism Talk is a podcast where stories come to life and voices are heard, celebrating the beauty and strength of the autism community. Through heartfelt interviews with individuals on the spectrum, authors, and professionals, we share wisdom, courage, and hope. Whether you’re a parent seeking guidance, an educator looking to inspire, or a self-advocate on your journey, this podcast offers a place of connection and understanding. Join us as we honor the unique stories that unite us and work…
After more than 10 years of conversations, learning, and community, All Autism Talk is taking a pause. In this brief episode, Richie reflects on the podcast’s journey—from amplifying autistic voices and sharing expert perspectives to the conversations that have personally shaped him as a husband, father, and advocate. This hiatus is an opportunity to step back, think intentionally about what's…
In this episode, Dr. Cindy Ariel explores relationships involving autistic and neurodivergent individuals, drawing from her book Autism and the Two of Us. She discusses how differences in communication, social expectations, and processing styles can create challenges and opportunities for deeper understanding. Dr. Ariel shares practical strategies for navigating conflict, fostering vulnerability,…
In this episode, Dr. Molly O'Shea, MD, joins us to discuss the critical importance of water safety for all children, with special attention to the unique considerations for autistic children and other neurodivergent learners. With over 30 years in pediatrics, Dr. O’Shea has spent her career as a speaker, media consultant, journalist, and founder of Birmingham Pediatrics. She is also the official…
In this episode, Caroline Maguire explores the nuances of friendship through a neurodivergent lens, drawing from her book Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults. She shares personal insights on social challenges, the difference between belonging and popularity, and the impact of masking and mismatched communication styles. Caroline introduces her “Three P’s” of friendship—Proximity, Practice,…
In this episode, Emilie Brotherton and Darby Schwien take us inside the ASCEND program at Missouri State University, a unique initiative supporting students with autism and other mental health challenges. They share how the program fosters connection through mentorship, social events, and a thoughtfully designed space for neurodivergent students. The conversation highlights the power of community,…
In this episode, Samantha and Reux—autistic adults working in applied behavior analysis—share their personal journeys from diagnosis to professional life. They reflect on early employment challenges, the critical role of workplace support, and why autistic voices matter in the field. Their stories offer hope to families, guidance for new behavior technicians, and a powerful reminder of the…
Rachel Schaub is a 16-year-old autistic singer-songwriter who joins us to share stories about her love of singing and songwriting through AI. She shares about the experiences that inspire her and her writing process. Rachel also discusses how technology helps her connect with others and express herself in unique ways. Listeners will hear firsthand how music and AI intersect to open up creative…
Rachel Estes Leyk is a mother, businesswoman, coach, and advocate who delivers heartfelt and highly practical strategies for raising emotionally resilient, self-aware children. In this conversation, she opens up about a moment of crisis in her family that became the catalyst for her advocacy, which has led to helping others to do the same. Her upcoming book, Response-ABILITY: How the Need to…
Jenny Palmiotto, founder of Love and Autism, joins us to share the inspiring journey behind the movement that’s redefining how we think about autism. Jenny explores what it truly means to create an autistic-affirming world—one where autistic voices are centered, support needs are seen as neutral, and ableism is actively dismantled. From challenging ableist narratives to finding connection through…
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andy Bondy and his wife, Lori Frost, MS, CCC-SLP, who are the co-founders of Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. They’re also the creators of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Together, they share about the origins and updates of PECS, their work around the world, and the release of the 3rd Edition of the PECS Manual. We explore the importance…