Shows
Books with BetsyEpisode 44 - Bad Decisions and Good Sex with Meredith TuritsOn this episode, Meredith Turits, debut novelist, and I discuss the process of making her book come to life, how amazing her editor is, and the best ways to support friends who are writers. We also discuss her book, Just Want You Here, which I encourage anyone to go pick up!
Order Just Want You Here!
Books mentioned in this episode:
What Betsy’s reading:
Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin
Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker
The Safekeep by Yael Van Der...
2025-03-1057 min
The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 35: Interview With Alley Joel and Rebecca Seiden of Boulder County Department of Human ServicesSuccessful housing programs for neurodiverse people can be based on publicly funded initiatives. In 2002, voters in Boulder County, Colorado passed one such measure authorizing the building of housing units and supports for the intellectually disabled in their community. Our interview explores the goals and scope of this innovative program and how it aims to serve the needs of the autistic and intellectually disabled community of Boulder County.
2024-10-211h 36The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 34: Interview With Desiree Kameka Galloway, Director of the Autism Housing NetworkThe Madison House Autism Foundation’s mission is to promote, model and advocate for the full inclusion of adults with autism in the life of communities everywhere. They also work to expand choices and opportunity in housing, employment and community life. In this episode, we interview Desiree Kameka Galloway, Director of the Autism Housing Network, and get her thoughts on the state of housing for the autistic community today.
2024-10-071h 53The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 33: Housing and TransportationTwo of the biggest issues in moving towards adult independence are housing and transportation. This is especially difficult for those who are neurodivergent. In this episode we discuss the pros and cons of different types of housing and the transportation challenge. We also explore some innovative housing solutions, including supported independent living communities.
2024-09-232h 01The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2: Episode 32: Interview With Joie Laykoff and Mitch Carver of Fusion AcademyIn this episode, we continue our conversation about the role that education plays in preparing neurodivergent students for independence. Joie Laykoff is the Senior Director of Teaching and Learning of Fusion Education Group. Mitch Carver is Head of School for Fusion Academy in Boulder, Colorado. Together, they discuss Fusion Academy’s 1:1 teacher/student ratio, their personalization of learning for each student, and the impact these have on student success.
2024-09-091h 16The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 31: Interview With Jen Wilger of the Temple Grandin SchoolTransitioning from high school to career or college can be challenging to those on the spectrum. In this episode, we interview Jen Wilger of the Temple Grandin School in Boulder, Colorado about the programs and practices the school offers to help students be successful in this important transition.
2024-08-271h 17The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 30: Transitioning to Living AloneMoving out of the house can be overwhelming and scary for the autistic adult as well as for parents and caregivers. In this episode we explore different therapeutic therapies and philosophies that can help us understand the anxiety, mindsets, and mental struggles that both autistic adults and caregivers experience during this difficult transition.
2024-08-152h 21The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 29: Moving Out and Communicating With Those in Your ResidenceThe transition from living with parents to having your own place comes with a lot of challenges. One area that does not get a lot of attention for those on the spectrum, is how to communicate with your neighbors, your roommate, your landlord and others in your new home. In this episode we explore the sometimes tricky and complex world of human communication for renters.
2024-07-292h 32The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 28: Interview with Erin Gaskins of Room RedefinedAs part of our series on building life skills for independence, Erin Gaskins founder of Room Redefined, shares how she helps her neurodiverse clients organize their space according to their unique needs and goals.
2024-07-151h 25The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 27: Practicing Life Skills and RoutinesThe road to adult independence for our autistic children does not have to start when they are 18 years old. To make this challenging transition easier, teaching our children life skills that they will need when they are adults should begin at an early age. In this episode we explore ways in which parents and schools can help prepare those on the spectrum for living on their own.
2024-07-012h 20The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 26: Parenting Autistic Children in Their Journey Towards IndependenceParenting an autistic child is never easy. Is loving our child enough or is there more to raising a capable child? In the first part of this two part episode, we interview Lori Thayer, wife of co-host Bret Thayer on her thoughts and advice about raising an autistic step-son. Next, we interview Dr. Deborah Winking, author of Raising Capable Kids on her new book and advice that she has for parents in supporting, encouraging, and empowering our children to be capable.
2024-06-172h 28The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 25: Parent's & School's Role In Adult IndependenceHelping our children to become independent adults can be a challenge for any parent. How we support and communicate with our child about their independence journey can make all the difference. In this episode, we look at different ways of thinking and communicating about independence and we examine a school transition plan, assessments and resources.
2024-06-032h 24The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 24: Interview with Gail Suitor of Ignite Change MakersOur first guest of the second season, Gail Suitor, founder of Ignite Change Makers, talks about her dedication in supporting educators, students and families in finding innovative ways to educate and support neurodiverse students and adults.
2024-05-201h 13The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 2 Episode 23: Creating An Adult Independence PlanTransitions can be scary. For those on the spectrum, making the transition from living with parents to being on their own can be an intimidating process. But every successful long term goal comes with a plan of action. In this episode, we explore what a ten year adult independence plan can look like for an young autistic adult and the roles that parents can play in this process.
2024-05-061h 33The Understanding Autism PodcastUnderstanding Autism Podcast Season 2 TrailerWe can't believe that Season 2 of the Understanding Autism Podcast is actually right around the corner! Here we explain our focus for Season 2 and some guests and content that we are excited to share with our audience.
2024-04-2205 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 22 Part 2: Season 1 RetrospectiveIn this our final episode of season 1, we continue to reflect on how we created the Understanding Autism Podcast. This episode focuses on recording and editing platforms, making your podcast unique, using social media and networking, and considering monetization. We also share our goals and vision for season two.
2024-03-181h 33The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 22: Season 1 Retrospective (Part 1)In this next to final episode, we reflect on the amazing journey we both experienced in producing the Understanding Autism Podcast. While our previous episodes focused on autistic behaviors, this episode focuses on the nuts and bolts of producing a podcast: from the germination of an idea to structuring the show, to basic technical equipment, and to website and logo construction.
2024-03-041h 28The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 21: Interview with Katelyn Szymanski on Suicide IdeationIn this episode, we interview licensed social worker and QPR Gatekeeper Instructor, Katelyn Szymanski on the research and advocacy work she has done around suicide awareness and prevention for the neurodiverse community in Maryland.
2024-02-201h 21The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 20: Autism and Suicidal IdeationIn this episode we explore the sensitive topic of suicide. How does autism impact suicidal thoughts? What social and cultural factors might contribute to thoughts of suicide? Nicole shares her own struggles with this topic and shares resources and strategies that helped her overcome thoughts of suicide.
2024-02-052h 11The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 19: Autism and ShamingNeurodiverse people often know they are different and that they may stand out from neurotypical people. But how does society treat those that are different? This episode explores the sensitive issue around shame, stigma and the resulting trauma that can occur. We also review examples of shame informed therapy.
2024-01-223h 02The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 18: Autism and PerfectionismPerfectionism, or the tendency to demand flawless behavior or performance, is a challenge many with autism struggle with. In this episode, we examine the root causes of perfectionism, how perfectionism impacts those with autism, and some generally recommended solutions for addressing perfectionism.
2024-01-082h 17The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 17: Autism and DepressionDepression can be a real concern for many of us especially around the holidays, but how do people on the spectrum experience depression? In this episode we explore the causes, experiences, and treatments for autistic people and depression.
2023-12-182h 33The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 16: Autism and AnxietyAnxiety is a common occurrence for all of us, but how does a person on the spectrum experience anxiety? In this episode, we will explore the link between autism and anxiety and focus on autistic experiences with anxiety.
2023-11-282h 15The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 15: An Autistic’s Relationship With FoodMany people on the spectrum struggle with food. What might look like picky eating habits to the neurotypical person, is actually an autistic person’s complex relationship with food. In this episode, we explore what causes ‘picky eating’, what diets that people with autism adopt, food and social gatherings, and resources for those who struggle with food.
2023-11-141h 31The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 14: EmetophobiaWhile many of us struggle with phobias that impact our lives, emetophobia, or fear of vomiting, can be extremely debilitating. In this episode, Nicole shares her personal experience with this phobia and the strategies she used to overcome it.
2023-10-231h 25The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 13: Autism and PhobiasMany people can suffer from phobias but how exactly are autistic people impacted by phobias and what are some methods to cope with them? In this podcast we explore causes of phobias and some strategies on how to manage and overcome them.
2023-10-131h 41The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 12: Transition StressManaging transitions can be extremely frustrating for neurotypical people as well as those on the autism spectrum. In this episode we explore why change creates stress, how this may manifest into resistance to change, and some solutions around managing the stress around transitions.
2023-09-261h 31
Rebel Educator®88: Navigating the Workplace as an Autistic Adult with Nicole Kubilus and Bret ThayerNicole Kubilus has a serious passion-call it a special interest-for autism advocacy. Diagnosed with autism at two years old, Nicole has pursued various types of autism advocacy work over the last twenty years.Her artwork and poetry focus on celebrating the autistic experience and spreading awareness about ableism (which she uses to promote Understanding Autism). She is a former art educator and currently working towards a certification in counseling. She lives in Denver, Colorado.Bret Thayer is a retired public school teacher and the parent of an autistic child...
2023-09-1540 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 11: Autism and MaskingPeople with autism often experience bullying at school or stigmatization at work. That is one reason why many people on the spectrum "mask" their autistic behaviors from neurotypical people. In this episode we explore the reasons behind masking, the physical and mental health consequences of masking, and the benefits of unmasking.
2023-09-131h 35The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 10: Object Permanence and Working MemoryAs an autistic person, are you someone who constantly misplaces objects and lose your cool when you’re trying to find it? In this episode we examine why object permanence and working memory are such challenges for people with autism and what can be done to address it.
2023-08-291h 13The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 9 Part 2: Low Frustration ToleranceA common challenge that many autistic people face is tolerating unpleasant or stressful situations. In part 2 of this episode, we will discuss how low frustration tolerance impacts teachers and classrooms, how to support neurodiverse students, and how employers and employees can work through low frustration tolerance in the workplace.
2023-08-1443 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 9: Low Frustration Tolerance (Part 1)A common challenge that many autistic people face is tolerating unpleasant or stressful situations. In part one of this episode, we will explore the signs and causes of low frustration tolerance and what can be done to build tolerance around frustrating situations.
2023-08-0259 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 8: PerseverationsSome autistic people experience the feeling of being 'stuck'. This can manifest itself in the form of thinking patterns, speech, and body movements. In this episode we examine what perseveration is and tips on how manage this experience.
2023-07-171h 08The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 7: Fixations and Special InterestsOne characteristic of autistic people is that they can develop a strong fixation on a topic or special interest, often at the expense of other tasks. Is this healthy? Why does this occur more among autistic people than with neurotypical people? What if these fixations are dangerous? In this episode, we explore these questions.
2023-07-031h 04The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 6 Part 2: Sensory Processing DisorderIn Part 2 of this episode, we focus on treatments for Sensory Processing Disorder, how SPD can impact socializing for those with autism, and SPD resources for adults with autism.
2023-06-191h 15The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 6: Sensory Processing Disorder (Part 1)Some autistic people are highly sensitive to the world around them. Textures, sights, sounds, noises, and smells, can lead to overwhelm, and in some cases, physical pain. In Part 1 of this episode we explore the reasons behind Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), its impacts, and assessments that can help.
2023-06-051h 48The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 5 Part 2: Meltdowns, Shutdowns, and Self-Harming BehaviorsIn Part 2 of this episode, Nicole shares her experiences with meltdowns, shutdowns, and self-harming behaviors as an adult. We also offer some advice for managing these behaviors for teachers, parents, and autistic people in the workplace.
2023-05-2252 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 5: Meltdowns, Shutdowns, and Self-Harming Behaviors (Part 1)Some of the more alarming autistic behaviors for parents and caregivers are meltdowns, shutdowns, and self-harming behaviors. In Part 1 of this episode we explore what these behaviors are and why they may occur.
2023-05-0848 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 4: Stimming and FidgetingMany people with autism stim or fidget. In this episode, we explore the reasons behind this behavior and its importance to those on the spectrum.
2023-04-241h 02
The Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 3: Avoiding Eye ContactPeople with autism can experience a great deal of stress making eye contact. In this episode we explore why those on the spectrum avoid eye contact and offer some solutions in managing this behavior.
2023-03-1948 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 2: What is Autism?
What exactly is autism? In this show we examine various definitions of autism and how these definitions shape our understanding of what autism is.
2023-03-1943 minThe Understanding Autism PodcastSeason 1 Episode 1: Who We AreOur first podcast episode! In this episode Nicole Kubilus (diagnosed with autism at age 2) and Bret Thayer (parent of an autistic child and former teacher) explain who they are, how they met and their purpose in launching this podcast.
2023-03-1321 min
Agile Amped Podcast - Inspiring ConversationsPreparing the Next Generation for the New Agile WorldAre educators doing all they can to prepare students for the real world? High school teacher and CSM Bret Thayer feels we could be doing better to give today's students - digital natives - the soft skills that modern businesses need. These include critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, innovation, collaboration, adaptability. Thayer is all too familiar with the struggle of getting smartphone-obsessed teenagers to acknowledge, let alone learn from, other people - teachers as well as other adults and peers. He uses Scrum and Agile technicals and mindsets to get students involved in their own education. Accenture | SolutionsIQ's Ho...
2018-06-0725 min