Shows
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Impact of Helicopter Parenting on Neurodivergent Growth with JasonWhen your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult struggles to regulate, follow through, or move forward—what are you supposed to do?Most parents step in (because they have to). You remind. You coach. You arrange the therapy appointments. You micromanage the hard stuff.Over time, this becomes your default mode. But what happens when the support that once helped… starts holding them back?In this episode, Jason explores how helicopter parenting—often born from love and necessity—can quietly become a roadblock to neurodivergent growth. And more importantly, what to do instead.🌱 W...2025-07-1816 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCrash or Protect? The Parenting Dilemma No One Talks AboutYou want your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult to grow into a confident, capable adult. But what do you do when they’re heading straight toward failure? Do you step in and save them—or let them crash and hope they learn?If you’ve ever wrestled with that gut-wrenching decision, this episode will speak right to you.Because most parents are making one of two well-intentioned mistakes—and both can leave their loved one stuck, discouraged, or completely shut down.In this episode, Jason breaks down the complex—and often painful—decision parents face: When do I intervene? And when do I let go? What he shares may just change...2025-05-2421 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNavigating the Parent-Mentor Balance with JasonEver catch yourself wondering "Am I doing too much… or not enough?" Whether you're stepping in to help your child solve a problem—or stepping back to let them figure it out—finding that balance can feel like walking a tightrope.You might be working overtime to fix, rescue, or guide every decision, only to feel exhausted… or you might pull back too far, unsure when to re-engage. Either way, when the balance is off, kids struggle to grow into capable, confident adults.In this episode, Jason unpacks how to know when to parent, when to mento...2025-04-2624 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEmbracing Neurodivergent Affirming Care: Balancing Acceptance and Practical Support with JasonIf you’ve ever wondered, “How do I support my child’s authentic self while helping them navigate the real world?”—you’re not alone.You’ve heard about neurodivergent affirming care and its emphasis on acceptance, but there’s still a challenge: How do we strike the balance between honoring individuality and addressing the practical demands of life?In this episode, Jason Grygla dives into the complexities of neurodivergent affirming care, exploring both its transformative strengths and potential limitations. You’ll learn:✔ Why affirming care is essential for empowering neurodivergent individuals✔...2025-03-0745 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDecoding the 'I Can't vs. I Won't' Paradox in Neurodivergence with Jason & DebbieIs it that they can’t—or that they won’t?In this episode, we break down the common struggle of distinguishing between genuine inability and refusal in neurodivergent kids, teens, and young adults. We explore: • Why challenges can feel insurmountable due to unique brain wiring • How to avoid power struggles and foster autonomy • The neural response to perceived difficulty and how it impacts motivation • The role of resilience and discipline in long-term growthUnderstanding this gray area can help you respond with more clarity and support—without getting...2025-02-0722 min
The Turn Your Life Around Podcast#077 Breaking Barriers in Neurodiversity: How Jason & Debbie Grygla Are Changing LivesWelcome to another insightful episode of *The Turn Your Life Around Podcast* with your host, Sarah Coates, aka "The One80 Lady." Today, we’re joined by Jason and Debbie Grygla, experts in the field of neurodivergence and founders of *NeuroDev*, a mentoring program supporting autistic and neurodivergent young adults. With over 20 years of experience, Jason, a licensed mental health counselor, and Debbie, a certified parent coach, share their journey from being foster parents to pioneering innovative ways to support neurodivergent individuals. They dive deep into understanding neurodivergence, why traditional mental health approaches may not always work, and the im...2025-01-3059 min
Autism & NeurodiversityUnderstanding Rigid Decisiveness with Jason & Debbie“Why won’t they just change their mind?”If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by a neurodivergent loved one’s black-and-white thinking or their refusal to reconsider a decision, you’re not alone. In this episode of Autism & Neurodiversity, we explore the common pattern of what Jason calls "rigid decisiveness." We unpack how this behavior—often misunderstood as stubbornness or immaturity—is rooted in lower brain functions like the need to avoid pain and conserve energy.We share some real-life examples of this pattern and explain how understanding it through a developmental lens can make al...2025-01-2420 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Calm Before the Storm: Why Emotional Regulation Starts with You with DebbieEver feel like your child’s emotions are a tornado, and you’re just trying to hold on? It’s exhausting, isn’t it?But here’s the truth: the key to helping your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult regulate their emotions starts with your calm. In this episode of Autism & Neurodiversity with Jason & Debbie, I’m sharing why emotional regulation begins with us as parents and how your calm presence can create a ripple effect in your home.If you’ve ever wondered why your best strategies don’t seem to work in the heat of the...2025-01-1717 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Critical Role Connection Plays in Supporting Development with Cam Sherman, MA, ACMHCWhat if the key to helping neurodivergent young people thrive isn't about intensive therapies, but something far more fundamental: human connection?Join hosts Jason and Debbie Grygla as they chat with Cam Sherman, the new executive director of the new NeuroDev Raleigh campus (formerly known as TechieForLife), about the transformative power of connection.Discover how building strong, supportive relationships can be the catalyst for personal growth and well-being in neurodivergent individuals.In this episode, you'll learn:Why connection is crucial: Explore the concept of "Belonging to Become" and how a sense of b...2024-09-1337 min
Autism & NeurodiversityRethinking SMART Goals for Neurodivergents with JasonAre traditional goal-setting methods like SMART goals failing your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult? In this episode, discover a fresh perspective on fostering growth and connection.Learn why focusing on tasks rather than attributes like kindness and empathy can lead to stress and avoidance, and how an approach rooted in Eastern philosophies can create a healthier, more supportive environment for your loved one.👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.2024-08-1617 min
Autism & NeurodiversityEmbracing Minimalism for Neurodivergent Well-being with JasonLet's talk about clutter!Anxiety, stress, and distractions plague our young people, especially our neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults.Reducing life clutter and focusing on the principals of minimalism can help.Learn the benefits of a minimalistic life approach and why it's a natural fit for our neurodivergent young people.Gain strategies for how to go about it in a way that is supportive.👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us creat...2024-07-1918 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMastering Crisis Response with JasonParenting comes with challenges. If you're parenting neurodivergents like children, teens, and young adults who are autistic, ADHDers, or have learning differences, those challenges can quickly turn into regular crises.In this episode, Jason discusses the personal and developmental aspects of responding to crises, contrasting it with professional crisis responders like EMTs and firefighters who manage to remain calm under pressure.Crisis response is a skill built with experience, maturity, and perspective.When you learn to regulate your emotional reactions and focusing on what you can control, you can maintain peace even in...2024-06-2818 min
Autism & NeurodiversityNarcissism & Autism with JasonAutism is often confused with narcissism. Autistic traits are often misinterpreted as narcissistic. In this episode Jason delves into the complex relationship between autism and narcissism, highlighting the unique ways in which self-centeredness manifests in individuals on the autism spectrum.By exploring the neurological differences that contribute to these behaviors, Jason sheds light on the challenges faced by both neurodivergent individuals and their loved ones. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these differences without judgment or expectations of traditional social norms.You'll learn:Why autistics are often called narcissistic.Why misjudging them causes problems...2024-05-2510 min
Autism & NeurodiversityTime Blindness and It's Complexities with JasonThe disabling effects of time blindness in neurodivergent individuals are often underestimated, overshadowed by more apparent symptoms. This common but often misunderstood trait in neurodivergent individuals, can have profound consequences on their daily lives and future prospects. Unlike mere forgetfulness or distraction, time blindness presents a unique challenge that affects how individuals with autism and ADHD navigate the world. By recognizing and addressing these cognitive hurdles, caregivers, educators, and therapists can offer tailored support and interventions to help neurodivergent individuals thrive.You’ll learn:Why time blindness is so much more than losing track of time.Wh...2024-05-0314 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDevelopmental Focus: Why It's Important with DebbieHave you ever felt frustrated because you couldn't get your autistic or neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult to do something desirable or stop doing something undesirable?You've tried so many things and it's not working.Many parents and people working with young people get stuck in negative behavioral focused patterns.On today's episode of the Autism & Neurodiversity with Jason & Debbie podcast, I'm talking about why this may be happening and how to shift into a developmental focus... because it can make all the difference.You'll learn:The negative impacts...2024-04-2719 min
Access Utah'Neurodiversity' with Jason Grygla on Monday's Access UtahOur guest today is Jason Grygla, Executive Director and Founder of Techie for Life. He’ll give a talk tomorrow at noon in the Dunford Auditorium at Utah Tech University in St. George. His talk is titled Neurodiversity: A Renaissance of Development and Needed Diversity. The talk is part of Utah Tech’s Trailblazing Speaker Series.2024-04-1548 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Shift from Parent to Mentor: A Critical Transformation with Jason & DebbieAre you tired of trying to make traditional parenting approaches work for you? Ready to make a profound shift that fosters genuine connections and sustainable growth for your child, teen, or young adult? In this episode, we explore the transformative power of NDM™ NeuroDevelopmental Mentoring and how adopting a mentor mindset can revolutionize your parenting journey. Discover the key to alleviating pressure, fostering autonomy, and nurturing meaningful connections that lead to long-term positive outcomes.What You’ll Learn:Why it’s critical to shift to a mentoring mindset.How adopting a mentoring mindset can alleviat...2024-03-2311 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBig Announcement! Parenting to Mentor with Jason & DebbieFriends, Hello! We've got something exciting to share with you in this episode!You know, parenting can be a rollercoaster, especially when it comes to raising neurodivergent young people. But, guess what? It doesn't have to be a struggle without hope. In today's episode, we're peeling back the curtain on our personal transformation moments and the lessons that have led us to our big announcement this month.Let's dive straight in! We're thrilled to introduce the Parenting to Mentor mini-course – a game-changer designed for parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, and all you amazing helping professionals out th...2024-03-0915 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 3 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-2621 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 2 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-2023 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment & Autism Deep Dive Part 1 with Dr. Jack HinmanEver get discourage with trying to connect with your neurodivergent teen or young adult? You're not alone.This 3-part episode series dives into the crucial, yet often overlooked, link between neurodiversity (like ADHD or autism) and attachment styles.Experts Jason Grygla, LCMHC, MA and Dr. Jack Hinman, with over 50 years of combined experience, unpack the surprising ways attachment impacts emotional well-being in neurodivergent individuals.The highlights:Unmask some of the mystery: Understand how attachment styles, secure or insecure, can act as a shield or a hurdle for emotional health in teens and y...2024-01-1226 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 3 with DebbieFeeling the holiday squeeze? The holidays can be magical... and manic, especially when your neurodivergent loved ones are on sensory overload. In this Part 3 of our holiday stress-busting mini-series, we dive deep into the hidden challenges that neurodivergent kids face and uncover a key strategy for calmer holidays or any time for years to come.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩...2023-12-2913 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 2 with DebbieFeeling frazzled instead of festive? The holidays bring joy, but for families with neurodivergent children, the season can be a sensory overload meltdown-maker. Part 2 in this mini-series on reducing stress I'll help you understand the hidden challenges that add to stress and one of the keys to calmer holidays or anytime for years to come.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩...2023-12-2213 min
Autism & Neurodiversity3 Steps to Reducing Stress Mini-Series Part 1 with DebbieHoliday season is here, bringing festive cheer but also potential meltdowns for families with autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults. In part one of this mini-series, I have some important perspectives to support you in taking care of yourself and your loved ones so that you can enjoy more of the good stuff over the holidays or anytime. Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content...2023-12-1611 min
Autism & NeurodiversityManaging Our Expectations with JasonParenting is one of those jobs that rarely matches up with our expectations. The challenges of parenting an autistic or neurodivergent is an experience many of us were not well prepared for.Sometimes it's hard to adjust our expectations for what it would be like, what our child would be like, and what our definitions of success look like.If you are feeling disappointed and frustrated, if your relationship with your family is strained, if you often feel unhappiness with your current situation, you will hinder your ability to show up as the parent you...2023-11-2416 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBoost Their Resilience with DebbieIt takes resilience to grow, develop, and be happy and successful in life when we have very real struggles. Resilient children, teens, and young adults are more willing to try things and try at them for longer. Low resilience leads to giving up quickly or even refusing to try.Get some insightful tips on how to foster resilience in your child, teen, or young adult, especially if they are autistic or neurodivergent. Help them embrace failure as a learning opportunity and create a supportive environment where it's safe to experiment and grow.Be sure to f...2023-11-1816 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySupporting the Transition into Adulthood with JasonParenting an autistic and/or neurodivergent child can be a challenging yet rewarding journey. As they transition into adulthood, the question of independence often arises. In this episode, Jason explores practical strategies to help neurodivergent young adults navigate the path to self-reliance. Join him as he delves into essential life skills, self-advocacy, safety considerations, and strategies for overcoming obstacles. He'll also discuss the importance of celebrating milestones and providing ongoing support.Be sure to follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a...2023-11-1119 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Secret to Building Their Confidence with DebbieDo you want to raise a confident child, teen or young adult? One who is not afraid to take risks, try new things, and perseveres in the face of challenges? When you get skilled at building their self-confidence you can help them be more successful even if they are autistic, an ADHDer or neurodivergent with disabilities that make things extra challenging.Unfortunately, sometimes the harder we try to build their confidence the more it goes down.It's because we're focusing on the wrong things.Discover the secret to building the kind o...2023-11-0417 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen Your Love One Pulls Away with JasonDo you have a teen or young adult in your life who is pulling away from you? If so, you're not alone. Many teens and young adults but especially autistic and neurodivergents go through a phase where they need to distance themselves from their parents in order to grow and develop their own identity.When you understand why neurodivergent young people pull away and have strategies to help them through this process, you can play a vital role in supporting their growth and development and reconnecting.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this epis...2023-10-2712 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCrush Shame & Boost Well-being by Parenting with Empathy with DebbieOur young people, especially our autistic and neurodivergent, thrive when they're met with support and empathy, and spiral down when they're met with shame-based approaches and rejection.It can be challenging to offer empathy, especially when your child, teen, or young adult is behaving negatively or acting out.But empathy is an essential tool for crushing shame and boosting well-being. When you practice empathy, you help your children feel seen, heard, and understood.This can help them to regulate their emotions, develop a sense of self-worth, and overcome challenges.In this...2023-10-2113 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMania and Neurodiversity: What Parents Need to Know with JasonDoes your autistic or neurodivergent loved one swing between manic, over the top, emotions and depression? In this episode, Jason talks about the challenges of extreme swings in emotionally dysregulated states. This can lead to problems in their relationships, at work, and in other areas of their lives. Being more aware of the signs of mania can help us be more effective in supporting the development of emotional regulation skills.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review s...2023-10-1307 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBreaking the Cycle of Shame-based Parenting Approaches with DebbieHave you ever tried to stop yelling at your kids, only to find yourself yelling again? Have you tried rewarding and punishing, but it's not working?If so, you're not alone. Many of us were parented with shame-based approaches, and we may be unintentionally using the same approaches with our own kids. But the research shows that shame-based parenting is ineffective and destructive.In this episode, learn what shame-based parenting is and why it's so harmful How to identify shame-based parenting behaviors in yourself. How to break the cycle of shame-based parenting and start raising...2023-10-0616 min
Autism & NeurodiversityTime Blindness and It's Impact on Connecting Cause and Effect with JasonTime blindness is a common challenge for autistics and neurodivergents. It can make it difficult to estimate how long it will take to complete a task, to plan ahead, and to meet deadlines. This can lead to frustration and anxiety for both parents and their children. Understanding some of the nuances of time blindness can help us develop more supportive strategies.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listen...2023-09-2910 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBoundaries with Love: Fostering Attachment and Autonomy with DebbieHave you ever felt powerless, confused, angry, or resentful because you were struggling to hold healthy boundaries with your child, teen, or young adult? Or maybe you thought you were holding boundaries, but they felt ineffective or even damaging to your relationship?In this episode, I share my insights on how to set healthy boundaries with love, in a way that strengthens your relationship, connection, and attachment, while also fostering healthy autonomy and development.I talk about the importance of boundaries, both for you and your child, as well as the difference between holding healthy...2023-09-2314 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBeyond 'No': Building Stronger Bonds with DebbieLearn how saying 'yes' can strengthen bonds, promote open communication, and guide your child's growth. Discover practical strategies to shift from conflict to connection, leading to empowered, confident kids. Tune in for a fresh perspective on effective parenting.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩 Want more insights and practical tools? Be sure to join our email list for inspiration and updates.🔵 For...2023-08-1812 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMindful Parenting: Embracing Connection as a Practice for Success with DebbieIf you've ever felt stuck in your attempts to build a meaningful bond, Debbie is here to share a powerful tool that can transform your relationship into one of influence and connection. Discover how this tool can lead to better support for your child's success, development, and overall happiness while enhancing the joy and fulfillment you experience in your relationship. Tune in and embark on a path of growth and understanding in your parenting journey.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram. 👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star re...2023-07-2914 min
Autism & NeurodiversityUnraveling the Power of Novelty: How Dopamine Drives Motivation in ADHDers with Jason"How do you motivate them?" It helps to understand dopamine, the neurotransmitter connected with feeling good and motivated. ADHDers have issues with dopamine levels and transmission. They need more support to increase their dopamine. Novelty is a powerful tool that can help.Follow "Debbie Grygla" on Instagram. 👉 If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to leave a quick 5 star review sharing your favorite takeaway. It helps us create more meaningful content for listeners like you.📩 Want more insights and practical tools? Be sure to join our email list for inspirati...2023-07-2121 min
Autism & NeurodiversityMotivation Challenges: The intersection of PDA, OCD, and Paralysis by Analysis with JasonIn this episode we explore what may appear as laziness or self-sabotage, but is actually a battle with three anxiety-induced barriers.These common barriers overwhelm and frustrate neurodivergent individuals, hindering their progress.Learn how mindful and intentional mentoring can guide them towards taking that leap of faith, break free of barriers, and unlock their motivation.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Uncover the complexities behind the shared challenges neurodivergent individuals faceDelve into how Pathological Demand Avoidance affects personal drive and initiative.Discover the connection between OCD and spiraling anxiety levels.Get insight...2023-07-1412 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhat Matters Most with Jason and DebbieAs we celebrate our 100th episode of this podcast, we reflect on our difficult parenting journey and compare what we used to think was most important to what we value now. Join us as we share what we’ve learned matters most.In this episode, you'll be able to:Delve into the power of practicing presence for savoring life’s most precious moments.Explore how nurturing deep relationships can be a fundamental cornerstone in parenting.Get a fresh perspective on the importance of addressing individual needs over conforming to societal norms.Learn the vital role of self...2023-07-0721 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Manage Neurodivergent Emotional Dysregulation with JasonEven with the best of intentions neurodivergent individuals can become emotionally dysregulated. It is a common experience among these young people and it is often misunderstood or overlooked by those around them. Through personal stories we aim to give you the tools to better support your young people in managing their emotions and findings ways to thrive.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What are some causes of emotional dysregulationTips for avoiding intense emotionsHow experiences can be too positiveWho experiences emotional dysregulationEffects of emotional dysregulationFeatured on the Show:Join our email...2023-06-2308 min
Autism & NeurodiversityPrioritizing Relationships Over Behaviors with JasonWe’re all doing our best to raise happy and successful children. Even with the best of intentions, things can go in the opposite direction of what we intended. In this episode, Jason shares a personal story about a negative experience he had while parenting his son and the important lesson in it if you want to improve your relationship with the child, teen or young adult you’re parenting or working with.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What makes our best intentions often go wrongThe two parts that together will determine the quality of your...2023-06-0910 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBecoming a Better Mentor with JasonHave you ever wondered if you are an effective mentor? Is there anything else you could be doing to meet your full mentoring potential? In this episode we talk about four types of roles a mentor can fulfill to reach to their fullest potential.As you build a foundationally strong mentoring relationship your mentee will begin to see greater benefits because trust and collaboration are evident. This type of relationship will help lessen their struggles, allow them to face future challenges head on and give you the opportunity to influence them for good.What You'll...2023-04-0712 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAttachment and Relationships with JasonHuman nature leads us to naturally impute our own needs and understanding of the world on others, but is this best method of developing a relationship with your neurodivergent loved one?We often ask questions that aren’t beneficial for that relationship, like “How social are they?”What if instead we asked, “Does my loved one want to interact with others?”With their needs in mind we avoid imputing our own desires onto them, which frequently causes them to spiral down a negative path.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why self-r...2023-03-1716 min
Autism & NeurodiversitySeriously Mentally Ill with JasonDoes neurodivergence automatically predispose one to mental health issues? Why is it so difficult for an autistic or neurodivergent individual to manage mental illness? In a subset of this community, severe mental illness is a very real and debilitating issue. There are steps you can take to mitigate the negative effects of those issues.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What it means to be severely mentally illHow mental illness affects neurodivergent individualsStrategies to manage a severely mentally ill diagnosisImportant points for caregivers to considerHow to affect change in lifestyles of the mentally ill2023-02-2422 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen Comfort Now Creates Pain Later with JasonNeurodivergent children have a more difficult time growing or developing resilience during struggles. For this reason, well-meaning parents often create an environment where their children are not challenged, but instead remain in a constant state of comfort. Learn why this creates comfort and family harmony in the short term, but doesn’t provide the skills necessary for neurodivergent children to succeed later in life and how to prevent or change this mistake with your loved one.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why comfort is the enemy of growthThe difference between being uncomfortable and overwhelmedThe higher th...2023-02-1014 min
Autism & NeurodiversityCommon Mistakes Parents and Mentors Make When Setting Goals with JasonThere are some common mistakes we see parents making when they set goals for themselves or to help their autistic and/or neurodivergent loved ones. Don’t make these mistakes!What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why the type of goals we set can be a problem.Why a focus on timelines doesn’t work in goal setting for autistic and/or neurodivergent young people.How to look at needs versus wants.One of the most common types of goals that parents set that aren’t in our control.Our role in goal support and mentoring....2023-01-2714 min
Autism & NeurodiversityBalance of Power in a Mentoring Relationship with JasonThe balance of power in a mentoring type relationship with a young person is continually adjusting as a child develops into adulthood.As you parent, shifting ownership to them is an important part of their development. When they are autistic and/or neurodivergent and have a different timeline for developmental milestones it can create challenges as they start adulting.In this episode are some principals to consider when navigating these shifts.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What someone has to feel in order to do something differently.Why you want a...2023-01-1323 min
Autism & NeurodiversityStaying Curious with JasonStaying curious may be one of the essential ingredients to empathy and our ability to connect with the young people we parent and mentor.One of the goals of NDM or Neuro-developmental Mentoring,™️ the approach we developed and teach, is to shift our focus from trying to fix a problem to a focus on mentoring development.To be an effective mentor you you can’t fake curiosity. There are nuances to utilizing curiosity effectively.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why curiosity is such a valuable tool.What belief is useful for curios...2022-11-2520 min
Autism & Neurodiversity75. Identities as Parents to Neurodivergents with JasonAre you heading for an identity crisis? When so much is required for supporting someone who is neurodivergent, oftentimes our identity, our labels for ourselves and how we see ourselves turns into a focus on giving and being there for our loved ones. This can create issues for us especially when things shift as they get older. Jason has some great tips for dealing with this and improving your quality of life. Get full show notes here: JasonDebbie.com/752022-10-2117 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAutism at 18 and Legal Adulthood with JasonAging into legal adulthood is not the same thing as developing into an adult who is ready for the rights and responsibilities governmental laws bestow on adults.Our autistic and neurodivergent young people often still need our support and guidance even if they have turned 18, which is the age most states and countries consider by law to be a legal adult.This legal shift can be intimidating especially if you’re not ready for it.There are ways you can still advocate for what they need until they are developmentally ready to do it...2022-10-0714 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHow to Motivate Autistic and ND Young People with DebbieJason and I get asked all the time, “How do you motivate them?”The short answer is you can’t.But there are things you can do as a parent and mentor to tap into their own desires and support their success while building your relationship in the process.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why many common approaches don’t work.The common assumptions around why our young people perform or don’t perform how we would like.How to tap into long-term motivations.The four things to consider that go beyond mot...2022-09-3021 min
Autism & NeurodiversityGiving Your Best or Burning Yourself Out? with JasonWhen you are parenting or working with autistic and neurodivergent young people there is a line between giving your best and martyring or burning yourself out.Don’t set yourself up for failure.Learn the equation for assessing how much to give and to who.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How to assess the line between giving your best and burning yourself out.The equation for effort and return on investment.How to not set yourself up for failure.Why sacrificing yourself may not get you what you want.Why giving mo...2022-09-2313 min
Autism & NeurodiversityRigidity Issues with JasonRigidity issues cause a lot of problems and frustrations for many parents and mentors.When you examine what may be behind rigidity for many autistics and neurodivergents it can be easier to handle and come up with more effective responses.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What someone values when their rigid.What makes it hard for us to see the big picture.How to work with rigidity.When it might be worth it to push thing when you weigh the costs.The helpful questions to be asking yourself to gain more insight.2022-09-0913 min
Autism & NeurodiversityThe Opportunity in Conflicts with JasonProblems and conflicts are always going to come up.In this episode, Jason shares an example of how some positive things came from some difficult challenges between some of our students at our school NeuroDev.He changed their names and some of the details to protect privacy.This experience is a great example of what can come from conflicts (which are inevitable) and how with a good relationship, a principled approach, and focusing on what really matters, we can support development.What You'll Learn from this Episode:Why a willingness...2022-08-2713 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHonest Assessment with JasonThe difference between the strengths and weaknesses of our neurodivergent young people can feel frustrating.Passing judgement hurts our relationship.Honest assessment is necessary, but ignoring weaknesses doesn’t work.In this episode, Jason shares the approach and philosophy we take at NeuroDev to support development.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What assessments give us false expectations.The difference between judging and assessing.What shows up in testing for neurodivergents with learning differences or challenges.What usually helps someone get a job and contributes to losing their job.What yo...2022-07-3013 min
Autism & NeurodiversityGoing to War (Sun Tzu) with JasonAs parents, teachers, coaches, therapists, etc. who mentor autistic and neurodivergent young people, it can feel like we’re at war.We’re battling dysfunction, regression, and stagnation.In this episode, Jason shares his favorite quotes from Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, and he applies them to mentoring and parenting.We’d love to hear what your favorite quote is from this episode. Email support@jasondebbie.com and let us know which quote resonated for you and why.What You'll Learn from this Episode:What is the “battle” we’re in as...2022-07-2225 min
Autism & NeurodiversityFactors Compounding the Challenges with JasonWhen you’re parenting and mentoring autistic and neurodivergent young people, there are several factors that can compound the challenges.Only focusing on one factor can lead to power struggles.This topic often comes up in conversations with parents of our students at TechieForLife.In this episode, Jason offers insights into understanding the factors to be aware of and what solutions are needed.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How different factors compound the challenges for autistic and neurodivergent young people.Why focusing on only one factor can contribute to po...2022-07-0815 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAutism Suicide Support with Jason*Trigger warning, specific talk about suicide.Autism suicide or talk of suicide is a difficult topic that comes up for many autistic and neurodivergent young people.The rates of suicide are higher in the neurodivergent population than among neurotypicals.We are sorry if you are having to deal with suicide or the possibility of it in someone you love.Our goal of this podcast is to support you and the autistic and/or neurodivergent young people you care about.So in this episode, Jason offers his insights and perspectives...2022-06-2542 min
Autism & NeurodiversityDepression in Autistic and Neurodivergent Young People with JasonDepression in autistic and neurodivergent young people and how to effectively treat it, has not been studied as extensively as in the general neurotypical population.There a some common misunderstandings about what depression is and isn’t, what causes it, and what helps it especially for neurodivergents.In this episode, Jason offers some important things to understand about depression and especially how it effects autistic and neurodivergent young people and what they need to overcome it, the role of counseling, medications and the mentors in their lives.This is an important topic to un...2022-05-2225 min
Autism & NeurodiversityAvoiding Burnout with JasonAutistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults need us for the long-haul.When you’re a parent, caregiver, or mentor in some capacity it can be easy to get burned out.In this episode, Jason dives in to one of the biggest contributors to burning out for him and offers some tips for combating it.What You'll Learn from this Episode:One of the big causes of burnout for parents, caregivers, and mentors of autistic and neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults and why it leads to burnout.One of the bi...2022-04-2935 min
Autism & NeurodiversityHelping Neurodivergents Develop Their Spark with JasonHow do you know you’ve done your job to help your neurodivergent child, teen, or young adult develop?We don’t necessarily know what their full capabilities and disabilities will be.In this episode, Jason talks about what it can take to help someone with neurodivergent disabilities develop and live their best life.What You'll Learn from this Episode:How to know if you’ve done your job.How to help them self-spark.The Autism Triad and its implications.What age neurodivergents often hit their stride.What to assess.Feat...2022-04-0815 min
Autism & NeurodiversityWhen to Remove Yourself from The Equation with JasonAre you making things worse by trying to be an involved parent of your neurodivergent teen or young adult?It can be tricky when they are neurodivergent and still need supports but also want to be more independent.If you stay in the parent roll and try to keep them in a child roll you may ultimately be doing more harm than good.It may be time to remove yourself from the parent/child equation.In this episode, Jason explains unhelpful parent/child dynamics that can do damage to your relationship...2022-03-1828 min
Success is Subjective: Real People. Raw Stories. Embracing a Non-Linear Life!Episode 123 - Your Timeline Doesn’t Define You —Jason and Debbie GryglaWhere you are, is where you’re at, not who you are. It’s not about performative milestones as much as it is about the development process. The timeline you’re on right now doesn’t define you or the outcome of your life so throw the timeline out!Jason and Debbie Grygla are the owners of TechieForLife, a specialized mentoring program for neurodiverse young adults. Both Jason and Debbie have quite different timelines from each other and have been able to see a vast variety of timelines with their own children and with the young adults at Techi...2022-03-1533 min