Welcome to Episode 206 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

This week, we’re focusing on the perspective of the sibling of a child with autism.

Their lives are absolutely impacted, yet their needs are often ignored or unintentionally not prioritized.

Joining us is David Kartzinel, son of Dr. Jerry Kartzinel, who was on the show last month (Episode 199) and brother to Josh, who is on the autism spectrum.

Nurturing the relationship with your child who is NOT on the spectrum can feel like another ball in the air you must juggle - and it can add to the overwhelm a parent feels.

But you CAN meet the needs of all your children and you can also tap the tremendous positive force of siblings in supporting your child on the spectrum.

The secret this week is…

SIBLINGS Are the Greatest Therapists

You'll Discover:

• What It’s Like Being The Sibling of a Child With Autism (3:20)
• The Role of Counseling and Self-Care for Siblings (8:46)
• The Impact of Autism on SIBLINGS (14:57)
• Techniques To Release Trauma (26:24)
• Specific Actions To Take With Your Child Who’s NOT On The Spectrum (32:34)
• Why It’s Never Too Late For Open Communication (45:15)
• How To Nurture Relationships In Challenging Times (52:25)

About Our Guest:

David Kartzinel is the office manager for Kartzinel Wellness Center with 15 years of experience and the Executive Director of Home Life Community. He has spearheaded various technological changes and specializes in maximizing the practice’s efficiency.

David received his Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Union University in 2008. David grew up with autism as a part of his life since he was 13 years old when his youngest brother Joshua was diagnosed at age 2 with autism. He is passionate about helping siblings and parents understand the long-term effects of living with a special needs sibling, especially with regard to its impacts on the siblings, both negative and positive.

Now an adult sibling with children of his own, he continues to work for his father helping families with children who have autism. David brings a unique perspective that blends a very honest, realistic take with a good-natured optimism that focuses on ensuring a family learns to understand each other and work to improve and move forward together, whatever challenges the family may face.

david@drjerryk.com

www.drjerryk.com

References in The Episode:

• The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• Parenting From The Inside Out by Dan Siegel
• Adam Lane Smith Life Coach

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 205 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

Our guest this week is Niall MacMillan, a father of three who understands the power of non-verbal communication.

Last year, his youngest son Ellison was diagnosed with autism and Niall and his family have been on a learning journey since then.

Niall has millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram where he portrays a character that doesn't speak and communicates through facial expressions.

And that’s been one KEY way he has developed a strong bond with his son, who is non-verbal.

The secret this week is…

Your FACE Can Inspire More SPEECH


You'll Discover:

• One Dad’s Perspective On The World of Autism (4:54)
• The Birth of a Viral Social Media Sensation (12:24)
• How To Supercharge Your Words (18:41)
• How Timers Can Help With Transitions (21:09)
• The Freedom Of Not Caring About What Others Think (25:11)
• The Facial Expression That DOESN’T Work (28:40)
• How To Work Your Way Into Your Child’s World (31:15)
• Practical Tips for Using Facial Expression (35:40)
• Where To See Facial Expression In Action (41:58)

About Our Guest:

Niall Macmillan is a dad of three children and one of social media’s most popular content creators, with 8.5 million followers across TikTok and Instagram. Niall has become Gen Z’s answer to Mr Bean thanks to his ‘Awkward’ social media character. Niall lives in the UK with his wife and three children and works a 9-5 job as well as creating his hilarious social media content, which has seen him work with the likes of Amazon, Sony, Universal, and the BBC.

Niall MacMillan on TikTok (@niallmacmillan)

Niall MacMillan on Instagram (@niallmacmillan)

References in The Episode:

• Visuals2Go
• Thorne

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 204 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

Award-winning film and television producer Scott Steindorff joins us this week.

Scott’s most recent film, Understanding Autism, was just released on PBS.

In this documentary, Scott explores his own autism and seeks to reframe perceptions of neurodiversity by highlighting the talents and perspectives of autistic individuals across the spectrum.

Scott is president of Stone Village Films and is known for his work as the executive producer of HBO’s Emmy-nominated "Station Eleven" and Golden Globe-winning "Empire Falls".

This discussion delves into the importance of acceptance, understanding, and adapting to the unique needs of autistic children.

Parents, schools, and communities can shift from trying to change these amazing kids to embracing their extraordinary ways.

The secret this week is…

Your ACCEPTANCE Is The KEY

You'll Discover:

• The Magic of Autistic LOVE (5:54)
• Why KINDNESS Works (10:30)
• The Thing Parents Need To Do The Most (14:50)
• An Approach That Just Isn’t Going To Work (19:00)
• Why Tough Love Is NOT Love (25:07)
• What Parents (And Schools) Need To Learn (29:50)
• The Magic of Going WITH Your Child’s Special Interests (35:30)

About Our Guest:

Scott Steindorff is an award-winning film and television producer and president of Stone Village Films. Known for his work as the executive producer of HBO’s Emmy-nominated "Station Eleven" and Golden Globe-winning "Empire Falls," Scott also produced the inspirational documentary "Understanding Autism." In this film, he explores his own autism and seeks to reframe perceptions of neurodiversity by highlighting the talents and perspectives of autistic individuals across the spectrum.

Scott has a robust portfolio in the entertainment industry, having brought to life notable projects such as "Las Vegas," "Chef," "The Lincoln Lawyer," and more. Additionally, he is a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University, where he teaches about the intersection of emotions and art. Scott also serves as a board member for the ARC and advocates for neurodiversity, speaking at various educational institutions about the importance of emotional intelligence and confronting substance abuse.

https://www.stonevillagefilms.com/

References in The Episode:

• Understanding Autism Documentary

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 203 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

This week, we’re focusing on the transformative power of JOYFUL interactions with children on the autism spectrum.

Our guest is Becky Damgaard, a senior Son-Rise Program teacher at the Autism Treatment Center of America.

With over two decades of experience working with children on the autism spectrum, Becky shares invaluable insights about the underestimated power of play.

In this discussion, we explore how simple, everyday interactions can significantly impact the lives of children with special needs.

From the importance of face-making and physical play to the benefits of joining and paying attention to "green light" moments, Becky emphasizes how play isn’t just fun but a vital element in developing communication skills, cognitive abilities, and social connections.

If you’re looking to deepen your connection with your child and understand how to be their greatest resource, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom.

Stay tuned as we dive into these playful secrets that promise not only to enhance engagement but also to enrich relationships.

The secret this week is …

PLAY Is The Way

You'll Discover:

• Why PLAY Is The Gateway (5:13)
• The Backstory of The Autism Treatment Center of America (8:38)
• What Is IAS And Why You Want To Lengthen It (11:05)
• Ways To Forge A Deeper Connection With Your Child (18:48)
• How To Be ENTERTAINING (24:12)
• The Power Of The Three “E”s (31:27)
• Small Yet Powerful Shifts A Parent Can Make (36:41)
• A One-Of-A-Kind Weeklong Experience (39:41)

About Our Guest:

Becky Damgaard is a Senior Son-Rise Program Teacher at the Autism Treatment Center of America. Her passion for supporting children with special needs began in an elementary school classroom, where she witnessed the misunderstood challenges faced by children on the autism spectrum. Recognizing the need for a child-centered approach, she joined the Autism Treatment Center of America®, relocating from the UK to pursue her calling. For the past two decades, Becky has dedicated herself to teaching The Son-Rise Program, working directly with over 700 individual children, and supporting thousands of families worldwide in individual and group settings. Her unwavering commitment and personalized approach have helped these children reach their true potential. Becky describes her work as her life's mission, and her efforts continue to inspire and bring hope to those she serves.

https://autismtreatmentcenter.org/

References in The Episode:

• The Son-Rise Program Start-Up

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 202 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

This week, we focus on the incredibly important topic of water safety for kids on the autism spectrum, as they are 160 times more likely to drown than neurotypical kids.

We’re joined by Dayna Harvey, a Water Safety Expert who educates and empowers parents with information, strategies, and hands-on tools to keep their children safer in and around water.

She is also a swimming lesson teacher who teaches children the skills they need to save their lives.

Her mission to eradicate drowning has intensified as drowning continues to be the #1 cause of accidental death in children under 5.

The secret this week is

Take WATER SAFETY Seriously

You'll Discover:

• The Shocking Rate of Drowning for Kids on the Autism Spectrum (4:00)
• Why Swimming Lessons Aren’t Enough (6:56)
• The WATCHING Initiative (8:57)
• Why Supervision Isn’t Enough (11:47)
• The Biggest Distraction For Parents (14:49)
• Why EVERYBODY In Your Circle Needs To Be Vigilant (17:24)
• The Limitations of Life Jackets (21:59)
• Not Knowing Is Not OK (27:22)

About Our Guest:

Dayna Harvey is a Water Safety Expert (educating and empowering parents with information, strategies, and hands-on tools to keep their children safer in and around water), and she is a swimming lesson teacher (instructing children in the skills they need to save their lives). Dayna was first certified in 1988 and she has been impacting families ever since. The mission to eradicate drowning has intensified as drowning continues to be the #1 cause of accidental death in children under 5. Dayna and the Waiting Whale kids have created The WATCHING Initiative and The Waiting Whale - Water Safety Kit, important tools for parents to have in their homes as they teach their children "Where there is water, I will WAIT!"

watersafetywithmissdayna.com

www.facebook.com/WaterSafetyWithMissDayna/about

References in The Episode:

• Autism Swim
• “The Reason I Jump” Audiobook

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 201 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

Today we’re talking about the transformative power of food for you and especially your child.

And we’re joined by someone who was a very early guide for us in helping us see the path forward.

Julie Matthews is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and published researcher specializing in personalized nutrition for complex neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder and ADHD for over 20 years.

She received her master’s degree in medical nutrition, with distinction, from Arizona State University.

She’s the author of the award-winning book Nourishing Hope for Autism and co-author of two research studies demonstrating the efficacy of nutrition and therapeutic diet intervention for autism.

Julie supports clinicians and families from around the world with her nutrition programs and professional training courses.

And she’s here today to share why food matters more than you think.

The secret this week is…

Science Supports DIET CHANGES

You'll Discover:

• Items To Eliminate Now (6:47)
• The Problem With MSG (8:25)
• Gluten-Free Items To Be Wary Of (14:48)
• Why It’s Never Too Late To Start (20:24)
• Surprising Facts About Diet Changes (23:01)
• A Little Known Diet With Surprising Efficacy (25:11)
• The Power of Bioindividualization (39:03)

About Our Guest:

Julie Matthews, MS, is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and published researcher specializing in personalized nutrition for complex neurological conditions, particularly autism spectrum disorder and ADHD for over 20 years. She received her master’s degree in medical nutrition, with distinction, from Arizona State University. She is the author of the award-winning book Nourishing Hope for Autism and co-author of two research studies demonstrating the efficacy of nutrition and therapeutic diet intervention for autism. Julie supports clinicians and families from around the world with her nutrition programs and professional training courses.

nourishinghope.com

References in The Episode:

• Julie’s Step-by-Step Nutrition Program for Parents
• Julie’s Free “What the Science Says” Report
• Ratings of the Effectiveness of 13 Therapeutic Diets for Autism Spectrum Disorder: Results of a National Survey
• Comprehensive Nutritional and Dietary Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder—A Randomized, Controlled 12-Month Trial

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 200 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

We’re honored to have Dr. Peter McCullough, a distinguished internist and cardiologist, joining us. Dr. McCullough shares his thought-provoking insights on the potential connections between childhood vaccinations, febrile seizures, and the development of autism spectrum disorders.

In this episode, Dr. McCullough urges parents to critically evaluate the vaccination schedule and to be vigilant about the possible risks associated with vaccines. He points out the increasing number of vaccines being recommended, including during pregnancy, and calls for greater transparency about their safety.

Dr. McCullough also touches on natural approaches to health and the importance of recognizing children's unique talents.

Join us as we dive deep, question commonly held beliefs, and explore the empowering message that Dr. McCullough brings to the autism parenting community.

This is an episode about seeking knowledge, fostering open dialogue, and making informed decisions for the well-being of our children.

The secret this week is…

Take A COURAGEOUS Stand For Your Child

You'll Discover:

• A Possible Reason for Childhood Seizures (4:54)
• How The Immune Systems Impacts The Brain (7:16)
• The Importance of Doing Your Own Research (10:34)
• Propaganda Terms You Need to Know (18:46)
• Who You Need To Be Wary Of (23:09)
• The Need For Courage And How To Deal With Criticism (26:34)

About Our Guest:

Dr. McCullough is an internist, cardiologist, and epidemiologist holding degrees from Baylor University, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, University of Michigan, and Southern Methodist University. He manages common infectious diseases as well as the cardiovascular complications of both the viral infection and the injuries developing after the COVID-19 vaccine in Dallas, TX, USA. Dr. McCullough has broadly published on a range of topics in medicine with > 1000 publications and > 685 citations in the National Library of Medicine. His works include “Pathophysiological Basis and Rationale for Early Outpatient Treatment of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infection,” the first widely utilized treatment regimen for ambulatory patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 in the American Journal of Medicine and subsequently updated in Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine. Subsequently, he published the first detoxification approach titled “Clinical Rationale for SARS-CoV-2 Base Spike Protein Detoxification in Post-COVID-19 and Vaccine Injury Syndromes” in the Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons. He has dozens of peer-reviewed publications on the infection and has commented extensively on the medical response to the COVID-19 crisis in TheHill, America Out Loud, and on FOX NEWS Channel. Dr. McCullough testified multiple times in the US Senate, European Parliament, Texas Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, Arizona Senate and House of Representatives, Colorado General Assembly, New Hampshire Senate, Pennsylvania Senate, and South Carolina Senate concerning many aspects of the pandemic response. Dr. McCullough has had years of dedicated academic and clinical efforts in combating the SARS-CoV-2 virus and, in doing so, has reviewed thousands of reports, participated in scientific congresses, group discussions, and press releases, and has been considered among the world's experts on COVID-19.

Dr. Peter McCullough www.petermcculloughmd.com

Chief Scientific Officer, The Wellness Company

President, McCullough Foundation

Author, Courage to Face COVID-19

Radio Show

Substack

References in The Episode:

• The World Council For Health

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.

Welcome to Episode 199 of Autism Parenting Secrets.

Dr. Jerry Kartzinel joins us and we delve into holistic approaches for supporting children with autism, exploring the significance of dietary changes like gluten and dairy-free diets, the importance of addressing gut health sleep issues, and minimalizing the impact on siblings.

Dr. Kartzinel is an internationally known author, lecturer, and clinician who has helped so many children recover from chronic debilitating diseases.

For over 30 years, he’s been helping children and families regain health by some of the most natural means possible.

Dr. Kartzinel practiced traditional pediatric medicine until his fourth boy was diagnosed with Autism.

He realized that the traditional approach to medicine was limited to treating a disease state with a medication but with little thought about why the disease state occurred in the first place.

Dr. Kartzinel turned to nutritional and preventative medicine for answers, and he practices integrative medicine—using supplements, diet modification, and, if necessary, prescription medications to manage the various medical challenges his patients face.

The secret this week is…

Autism IS Treatable

You'll Discover:

• Ways To Address Gut Issues (5:49)
• The Importance of a 100% Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Diet (13:35)
• Why A Clinical Approach Is Required (19:48)
• Some Key Root Causes To Look Out For (26:38)
• Why Commitment and Consistency Is Essential (31:05)
• How To Get Back To Basics First (33:25)

About Our Guest:

Dr. Jerry Kartzinel, M.D., is an internationally known author, lecturer, and clinician who has been featured on TV and radio and has helped numerous children recover from chronic debilitating diseases. He is passionate about helping children and families regain health by some of the most natural means possible.

Both national and local media have featured Dr. Kartzinel’s approach to health and nutrition, including Larry King Live!, 20/20, and The Today Show.

Dr. Kartzinel received his Doctorate of Medicine at St. Louis University School of Medicine and completed his pediatric training at Keesler Air Force Base. Following Desert Storm, Dr. Kartzinel practiced traditional pediatric medicine until his fourth boy was diagnosed with Autism and all its related chronic diseases.

Dr. Kartzinel realized that the traditional approach to medicine was limited to treating a disease state with medication but with little thought about why the disease state occurred in the first place. The problem lies with chronically reoccurring diseases or conditions of the human being that just will not improve with a traditional approach. Dr. Kartzinel turned to the field of nutritional and preventative medicine for answers. This new approach has demonstrated marked clinical improvements in his patients — way beyond what he had initially hoped for!

mendingautism.com

drjerryk.com

Additional Resources:

• Take The Quiz: What’s YOUR Top Autism Parenting Blindspot?
• To learn more about Cass & Len, visit us at www.autismparentingsecrets.com
• Be sure to follow Cass & Len on Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends.