Autism Learning Lab Podcast: Insights, Strategies, and Support
Join us as we explore the world of autism through expert interviews, personal stories, and actionable strategies to empower individuals and families.
Episode 36: Ready for College? Preparing Neurodivergent Students to Thrive
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 confidence and independence. Dr. Endlich also shares insight into autism support programs, community college, gap years, and why finding the right college environment can be more important than simply following a traditional path. Most importantly, this conversation offers encouragement and hope: there is no single timeline or path to college. With thoughtful preparation, the right environment, and appropriate support, autistic students can find their own path and thrive.
Episode 35: What Does School Readiness Mean for Neurodivergent Students?
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, and knowing when a different educational environment may be the right fit. For many neurodivergent students and their families, back-to-school season can bring uncertainty and difficult decisions, but this conversation offers practical guidance and encouragement for parents preparing for the new school year.
Episode 34: When Girls Go Undiagnosed: Autism, Pain, and the Cost of Being Misunderstood
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 quality of life. This conversation offers insight and encouragement for parents, clinicians, and autistic girls seeking support.
Episode 33: Redefining Expectations in Autism
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 explaining how what once felt devastating can become a source of joy.
Episode 32: Understanding Sensory Processing and the Power of Neuroplasticity
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 common belief that sensory development is fixed after early childhood, offering hope, practical insights, and encouragement to families and individuals navigating sensory sensitivities.
Episode 31: How A Diagnosis Should Guide Treatment, Not Define a Person
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. This episode is great for parents and caregivers, highlighting the powerful role they play in helping children regulate, grow, and navigate the world.
Episode 30: Breaking the Isolation - Relationships and Autism
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.
Episode 29: Misdiagnosed and Misunderstood - The Harm of “Lazy Diagnosing” in Mental Health
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 autistic individuals are often misunderstood within traditional mental health systems, leading to misdiagnoses, burnout, masking, and medical trauma. The episode also explores the importance of neurodiversity-affirming care, adapting therapy to the individual, and rebuilding trust after harmful treatment experiences.
Episode 28: How Transitional Living Helps Neurodivergent Young Adults Thrive
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—experiences that help build resilience and body awareness. He also emphasizes the importance of strong connections among peers, staff, and onsite therapists, creating a trusting and caring environment for everyone who participates in the Engage Transitions program.
Episode 27: Building Futures - Autism and Careers in the Trades
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.
Episode 26: A Father's Perspective - Finding Strength in the Autism Journey
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 autism community, Harry shares his personal journey raising a child with autism, offering powerful insights on resilience, hope, and positivity. This conversation highlights how families can navigate challenges, find strength in their experiences, and build fulfilling, meaningful lives together.
Episode 25: Rethinking Psychiatric Care for Neurodivergent Minds with Dr. Minh Nguyen
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 how mental health care can be approached through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. Dr. Nguyen highlights the importance of supporting co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, burnout, sleep challenges, and executive functioning difficulties. Most importantly, this conversation emphasizes treating each patient as a unique individual—prioritizing personalization, autonomy, and compassionate care.
Episode 24: It's Not Just Picky Eating: The Science Behind Autism and Food Struggles
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 but also offers practical strategies to those navigating dietary challenges. Glikman's main goal is to lead neurodivergent individuals to more freedom and flexibility regarding food. If you or someone you know struggles with rigid eating patterns, sensory sensitivities, or mealtime battles, this episode offers clarity, validation, and hope.
EP 22: Neurodiversity is the “Spice” of Life
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 unique experiences of motherhood as a neurodivergent parent. Kristen is relatable, insightful, and inspiring, offering practical strategies and heartfelt wisdom for anyone looking to better understand themselves or the neurodivergent people in their lives. Whether you’re a parent, professional, or neurodivergent individual yourself, this conversation is full of validation, humor, and empowering takeaways.
EP 21: Functional Medicine and Autism
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 of frameworks in personalized health plans, and practical strategies for burned-out parents, autistic adults, and anyone seeking better sleep, nutrition, and resilience. Dr. Sam offers both hope and a roadmap to real change.
