Today, Dr. Holmes talks to Heidi and Robin about AVA: Autistic Voiceover Artists. What if there was a place- a program- a community for autistic adults who want to use their voice talents in the voiceover industry? THERE IS! About our Guests: Heidi S. Hackney MS, PCC, Co-FounderCertified Autism Coach, ICF Accredited Life Coach, Masters in Human Development Robin Brooke SAG-AFTRA, AEA, Co-FounderProfessional Voiceover Talent of 20+ Years. Established VO Instructor and Coach. AVA Program Director....
Jun 29, 2025•48 min•Season 7Ep. 109
Today, Dr. Stephanie talks to Dan of the Aspie World! Are we still allowed to say Aspie? Dan talks us through his autism identification and how that led him to build one of the first platforms on social media about adult autism. Hello friends, I want to share something deeply personal—something that completely shifted the trajectory of my life. At 26, I received a formal diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome (now Autism Spectrum Disorder), along with ADHD, OCD, and Dyslexia. That moment wasn't about ...
Jun 20, 2025•32 min•Season 7Ep. 108
Today, Dr. Holmes talks with Occupational Therapist, Kelly Mahler. The topic is interoception! Every neurotype can struggle with it but we find neurodivergent folks can have a few more challenges with interoception. Defined by Kelly's website: Many people notice these feelings in their body with the help of an important sense… a sense called (drum roll please)… interoception. Don’t let the name fool you. The word interoception might not sound very sexy or important. But this sense is a really bi...
Jun 18, 2025•52 min•Season 7Ep. 107
Dr. Stephanie discusses ABA and Autism with Converge Autism Summit speaker Courtney Lasky, PHD candidate. About the speaker: Courtney Lasky, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA Courtney Lasky is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) amd PhD candidate with over a decade of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). As the Director of Clinical Operations for ABS Kids, she leads clinical teams in providing high-quality, compassionate care to children and families. Recognized as a subject matter expert, Courtn...
Jun 09, 2025•33 min•Season 7Ep. 106
In this episode, I’m joined by the dynamic duo behind the Spark Launch Podcast—Chaya Mallavaram and Mike Cornell. Chaya is a tech entrepreneur, professional artist, and founder of Spark Launch, where she helps create transformative spaces for neurodivergent learners. Mike is a peer support specialist and lifelong creative who brings a raw, honest voice to mental health advocacy. Together, they’ve launched Spark Launch—a podcast that dives deep into the lived realities of neurodivergent life. Fro...
Jun 03, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 7Ep. 105
Join Dr. Stephanie and Dr. Saulnier as they discuss her presentation at the Converge Autism Summit on broadening the autism spectrum. https://nacsatl.com/ They will discuss: The key features of autism How Autism symptoms are expressed differently in male and female The role of racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities in misdiagnosis of autism Common overlaps and differential diagnosis Dr. Saulnier obtained her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Connecticut. She trained ...
May 24, 2025•56 min•Season 7Ep. 104
Converge Autism Summit and Converge Autism Radio are sponsored by Springbrook Behavioral Health. Have you ever wondered what exactly Springbrook does? Join Dr. Stephanie as she talks with Scott Compton about Springbrook to discuss the unique approach to care for kids and teens on the spectrum who are in crisis. Scott Compton serves as the Regional Director of Business Development at Springbrook Autism Behavioral Health. In this role, he is instrumental in organizing the annual National Converge ...
May 21, 2025•31 min•Season 7Ep. 103
Panelists from all over the world who work with neurodivergent relationships including Dr. Stephanie Holmes. Can neurodiverse relationships work? Does autism "ruin families" (spoiler alert- no). Does neurodiversity training matter when looking for a coach or counselor to help your neurodiverse marriage or relationship? YES! Listen in with our host, Dr. Stephanie Holmes is part of a panel of neurodiverse relationship experts across the globe!
May 12, 2025•40 min•Season 7Ep. 102
Today Dr. Stephanie interviews Dani Bowman from Love on the Spectrum. We will talk about her involvement with the show and how she built her company DaniMation. More about our Guest: Dani Bowman, BFA, MBAPresident, DaniMation Entertainment. Dani Bowman, an individual on the autism spectrum, established her company, DaniMation Entertainment, in 2009. Over the years, she has spearheaded summer animation camps and conducted personalized online 1:1 sessions, diligently educating, elevating, and empo...
Apr 29, 2025•33 min•Season 7Ep. 101
Join Kristin, Toni and Melinda for a deep dive into the world of Autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence within Buddhist communities. Toni Boucher started working with individuals on the spectrum over 35 years ago as a foster care and emergency respite provider. As the director of the CARE Clinic where she provided autism evaluations and determined eligibility for The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs- Autism Division, she discovered the need for further research and informat...
Apr 23, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 7Ep. 102
Join Dr. Stephanie as she discusses financial planning with Converge Autism Summit speaker, Ryan Platt. We invite you to learn more about Special Needs Planning including Special Needs Trusts, ABLE Accounts, Guardianship, Government Benefits, Tax Implications, Future Caregiving and more! About our Guest: Ryan founded A Special Needs Plan in 2005 and has been a pioneer in his field. He completed his Special Care Planner Certification at the American College in Bryn Mawr, PA, and his background in...
Apr 09, 2025•36 min•Season 7Ep. 101
Dr. Stephanie Holmes and Dr. Sean Hirt discuss their clinical training and how neither were trained in neurodiversity despite the update in thinking about the Autism Spectrum (DSM-IV Asperger's). Dr. Holmes and Dr. Hirt discuss that applying neurotypical marriage models to Neurodiverse couples is not only not helpful but potentially harmful. Dr. Hirt discusses the role of the central nervous system and its impact on regulation and how typical marriage work may disrupt both partners. About Our Gu...
Apr 07, 2025•48 min•Season 7Ep. 100
Join Dr. Stephanie and Tiffany in an interactive discussion which will help you delve deeper into understanding your rights as a parent with a school-age child with disabilities. You will have a solid understanding of the variety of support plans, how to navigate the school teams, and how to ensure your child is getting everything they need to be successful within school! About our Guest:Tiffany Yandle is a non-attorney Special Education Advocate and President of In Bloom Advocacy. She has a 15+...
Mar 17, 2025•45 min•Season 7Ep. 99
Dr. Stephanie speaks with Converge Autism Summit speaker, Quatiba Davis. Points of the discussion include; 1) how to create scientific prescriptions with outside testing/testimony; 2) using ABA skills assessments and adaptive assessments to clearly identify the treatment plan package; 3)the impact of IQ on progress and outcomes; 4)data analysis and its importance to monitoring outcomes and progress. The discussion also includes how children and adolescents of color, while becoming diagnosed, are...
Mar 11, 2025•53 min•Season 7Ep. 98
Today Dr. Stephanie is joined by her husband Dan (Just the Guys Host) to discuss the difference involved and engaged dads make on their family system but most importantly the outcome for their autistic child. Dr. Naseef is a speaker at the 2025 Converge Autism Summit. Robert Naseef, Ph.D. has a distinct voice as a psychologist and father of an adult son with autism. He has spoken around the country and trained professionals internationally in treating autism and other developmental disorders and...
Mar 04, 2025•50 min•Season 7Ep. 97
Join producer, comedian, and media analyst Madonna Kilpatrick and Kristin for a show that explores the world, from art and pop culture to science and current events, from a neurodivergent lens. https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/off-the-spectrum--3579371
Mar 03, 2025•54 min•Season 7Ep. 96
Today our guest is Kim Clairy, OTR/L and her husband William. Kim will be a speaker at the 2025 Converge Autism Summit . Today Dr. Stephanie talks with Kim about autism and sensory issues and how an occupational therapist can help. About our Guest: Kim Clairy OTR/L is a Brenau University graduate with a BS/MS in occupational therapy. Kim has been invited to share her expertise on autism for over 100 organizations in 7 countries. She is a frequent contributor to autism related projects and podcas...
Feb 17, 2025•58 min•Season 7Ep. 95
Discover the unexpected truth about autism in adulthood. Uncover the surprising journey of Sylvia Moore Myers a late-diagnosed autistic individual who overcame trauma and grief while becoming an expert on autism. Find out how Sylvia's life coaching and advocacy work is reshaping the narrative around autism. Stay tuned to learn more about Sylvia's remarkable story and the impact of her work.At 62 years old, after years of research and writing her first book, Sylvia Moore Myers discovered somethin...
Feb 06, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Season 7Ep. 94
This is not your typical coaching interview. Amy Armstrong is our guest and in her work she helps parents and break through conflict with heart-centered, fool-proof boundaries. Amy is a licensed social worker and entrepreneur, Amy has spent over a decade navigating the intersection of mental health and domestic law. She is the founder amd director of The Center for Family Resolution, Amy leads a team of skilled coaches who specialize in groundbreaking parenting and co-parenting solutions trusted...
Feb 03, 2025•51 min•Season 7Ep. 93
In this episode, Reid Miles sits down with Gray Rodgers, the founder of the Swadlincote Aspergers Society, to explore the multifaceted experiences of living with Asperger's Syndrome. Gray's personal journey, from his own diagnosis to the successful evolution of the society, offers a unique and insightful perspective on the challenges and triumphs within the autism community. The episode covers a wide range of topics, from sensory issues and special interests to the importance of peer support-led...
Jan 21, 2025•27 min•Season 7Ep. 92
In this episode of Converge Autism, host Reid Miles of Inside the Asperger's Studio dives into a captivating conversation with Dr. Robert Melillo, an esteemed expert in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Melillo shares his personal journey, education, and challenges related to autism and ADHD, offering valuable insights into his method. The episode delves into the significance of understanding the complexities of the brain and central nervous system, particularly in individuals with ...
Jan 13, 2025•1 hr 32 min•Season 7Ep. 91
Discover the unexpected truth about the impact of autism representation in theater and how one playwright is breaking barriers. Uncover the powerful story that's creating waves in education and beyond. Stay tuned for an eye-opening revelation.Matteo Esposito, a 26-year-old autistic playwright and set designer hailing from Ontario, Canada, brings a unique and personal insight to the world of theater. Through his artistic endeavors, Matteo seeks to shatter stereotypes and promote acceptance for in...
Jan 07, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Season 7Ep. 90
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients. Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both in Part 2 of this series. Dr. Natalie Engelbrec...
Dec 26, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 6Ep. 89
Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht, ND RP is a dually licensed naturopathic doctor, registered psychotherapist, and a Canadian leader in trauma, PTSD, and integrative medicine strictly informed by scientific research.She was diagnosed at 46, and her autism plays a significant role in who she is as a doctor, and how she interacts with and cares for her patients and clients. Today Dr. Stephanie and Dan Holmes ask Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht about ASD, ADHD and both? Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht is a clinician in Cana...
Dec 20, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Season 6Ep. 88
Shell Mendleson, an experienced ADHD career coach, brings over 35 years of expertise in career coaching and counseling to the table. With a master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling and training under the renowned author Reid Miles, Shell has guided and impacted the lives of over 1500 clients. Her passion lies in helping individuals navigate career transitions, aligning their skills with personal aspirations and work environment preferences. Through her interactive and instructiona...
Dec 12, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 6Ep. 87
Matthew Bogenschutz, director of the Virginia Leadership Education and Neurodevelopmental Disabilities Program (VA LEND), shares his lifelong journey of being surrounded by individuals with disabilities, stemming from his parents' direction of a summer camp for kids with physical disabilities. This early exposure ignited his passion for supporting individuals with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives within their communities. Throughout his career, Matthew has worn multiple hats, from being a m...
Dec 05, 2024•35 min•Season 6Ep. 86
Mikey Goldman, the founder of Quiet Mind, shared a compelling journey about his personal experience living with ADHD and sensory processing disorder. From his childhood struggles to the challenges of finding effective coping mechanisms, his story resonates with those managing similar mental health conditions. Mikey's journey took an unexpected turn when he discovered the calming effects of weighted blankets. However, he found them to be cumbersome and impractical for daily use. This realization ...
Nov 27, 2024•31 min•Season 6Ep. 84
Reid Miles is joined by Tony Mantor and Katie Griswold, two individuals dedicated to raising autism awareness through personal stories. Tony, a renowned producer, delves into his unexpected journey into advocating for autism awareness, sparked by a video for first responders and a subsequent collaboration with a speech therapist for autistic children. Katie's introduction to the cause came through her mother reaching out to Tony, leading to her inspiring involvement in music and pageantry. Both ...
Nov 22, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Season 6Ep. 84
Today Stephanie talks with Brittany Browne about her recent diagnosis. Many topics are covered but a key point is on the vulnerability that can occur for undiagnosed women on the spectrum. Brittany Browne is licensed massage therapist and contestant in the 2024 Mrs. Georgia America Pageant. Brittany’s mission on this platform is to elevate the conversation around neurodiversity, with a particular emphasis on understanding and advocating for women with autism. Her journey from acquiring a Master’...
Nov 19, 2024•58 min•Season 6Ep. 83
Heather Parks has been in a neurodiverse relationship for over 25 years, and lives in Devon, UK with her husband and four children. Neurodiversity was unknown until 2012 when it exploded into their lives in the midst of a mental health crisis which affected every family member. Ill from the persistent stress of trying to keep everyone afloat, desperate to find solutions and losing hope that things would ever get better, Heather embarked on a journey in which she recovered herself and rebuilt con...
Oct 28, 2024•1 hr 6 min•Season 6Ep. 82
