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.
EP 15: College Readiness and Autism
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 highlights three critical components: financial, experiential, and emotional. Chris and Dr. Gaebler also explore the various accommodations colleges offer to support neurodiverse students — and why understanding these resources ahead of time can make a big difference. Throughout their discussion, Dr. Gaebler emphasizes how essential early preparation is, and how parents play a pivotal role in helping their neurodiverse students successfully navigate the college journey. strengths when embraced and understood in context. This conversation is full of compassion, perspective, and practical wisdom on how to truly support autistic individuals—not by changing who they are, but by helping them thrive as they are.
EP 14: What is Autism Really Though?
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 and Dr. Boveda discuss the power of self-awareness and self-advocacy—two traits often lost in the push to conform to neurotypical expectations. They explore how behaviors frequently seen as “problems,” like rigidity or hyper-focus, can actually be incredible strengths when embraced and understood in context. This conversation is full of compassion, perspective, and practical wisdom on how to truly support autistic individuals—not by changing who they are, but by helping them thrive as they are.
EP 13: Autism and Special Education
Chris welcomes Lauren Franklin, a 15-year veteran teacher. Lauren has taught Resource Special Education in middle and elementary schools and is currently teaching a self-contained classroom to students with disabilities ranging from Autism to Down Syndrome to Cerebral Palsy. Together, Lauren and Chris discuss classrooms, including accommodations, special education classrooms, IEPs, 504s, and more. If you’re just beginning to navigate school with your ASD child or you’re halfway through and wondering what support is available to you, make sure you save this one.
EP 12: Crafting Space for Unmasking and Growing
Chris welcomes Dr. Eric Beaudoin. Dr. Beaudoin is a licensed psychologist, the Executive Director at Cornerstones of Maine, and owner of Rubedo Young Adult Transitions. With over 10 years of experience working with neurodivergent young adults, Dr. Beaudoin shares how his program, Rubedo, is truly meeting ASD individuals where they’re at. Through a self-proclaimed “kitchen sink " approach, there are opportunities aplenty for their clients, but that doesn’t mean it's one-size fits all; as Chris and Dr. Beaudoin explain, every individual is unique and requires a tailored approach, something Rubedo’s team is happy to provide. Full of hope, this conversation is brimming with insight on how best to serve those we love in the neurodivergent space.
EP 11: Exploring Pathological Demand Avoidance
Chris welcomes Dr. Neal Christensen, a licensed psychologist who has been working with neurodivergent youth with a focus in Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare for over 20 years. In this episode, Chris and Dr. Christensen discuss a little-known behavioral profile called Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). PDA is an extreme avoidance of everyday, age-based demands (think of brushing your teeth as a young child). They explore the characteristics of this profile, and different treatment approaches that are effective. This is an insightful conversation full of knowledge for clinicians and laypeople alike.
