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In this special solo episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse launches the Guide to Autismland series—a curated journey through the most impactful moments from the podcast’s first 27 episodes. Sharing his own experiences as a father to a profoundly autistic son, Mark dives into the earliest and often most confusing stage of raising a child on the spectrum: the diagnosis.

With stories from other dads like Corey Michael, Dennis Procopio, Steve Levine, and more, this episode paints a realistic, heartfelt picture of what it looks like when families first begin to realize their child is different.

Mark emphasizes that while every autism journey is unique, no dad is alone in this. It's an honest, empathetic guide that empowers fathers to recognize signs, take action, and find community through shared experience.

TOPICS:
- Common early signs of autism shared by dads
- Differences in diagnosis timelines and processes
- Personal experiences with school systems and therapy
- Emotional challenges and stages of acceptance
- Importance of flexibility and family partnership
- Stories of hope, including older children finding success
- The unique bond and support among autism dads

ADVERTISING LINKS:
Dads In Autismland Membership: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES:
“Even though they share similarities, every autistic child is different—just like every person is.”

“The diagnosis journey isn’t uniform. It’s different for every family, every child.”

“Sometimes it takes seeing your story in someone else’s to realize you’re not alone.”

“Structure matters—our son knows exactly what day it is and what to expect.”

“You mentally start ruling things out for the future…until you hear another dad’s story that changes everything.”

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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Drawing from his personal journey as a father to a profoundly autistic son and insights from the first 26 episodes, Mark offers an encouraging and practical starting point for dads new to the autism journey.

With empathy and humor, he explores the emotional challenges, lifestyle changes, and community support that autism dads often encounter. This episode sets the tone for a powerful series designed to empower, connect, and guide fathers who may feel alone.

Whether you're just beginning your journey or need a refresher on shared experiences, this episode is a heartfelt invitation to join a supportive, no-judgment space built just for dads.

TOPICS:
- Why the “Navigating Autismland” series was created
- Mark’s personal experience raising a profoundly autistic son
- The importance of connection and avoiding isolation as an autism dad
- Addressing common challenges: diagnosis, family dynamics, stress
- Upcoming topics in the series: early signs, coping, advocacy, and more
- The need for individualized parenting strategies
- How humor and real talk build a stronger autism dad community

ADVERTISING LINKS:
Dads In Autismland Membership: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES:
- "You’re not alone. As tough as your situation is, you don’t have to do it by yourself."
- "This is not about giving you exact steps—it’s about showing you options."
- "Every autism journey is unique, but the struggle of fatherhood unites us."
- "I believe my son is one of the happiest people I know. That makes me feel like a success."
- "You’ll get some humor—because otherwise, we’d just cry all the time, and that’s not an option."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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Send us a text

In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with David Lee—professor, podcaster, and father to 9-year-old Eddie, who is on the autism spectrum.

David shares his deeply personal journey, from early moments of uncertainty and shame to finding joy in the smallest victories. Together, they reflect on the unique trials and triumphs of raising an autistic child, discuss the value of faith and community, and explore how big life changes—including a cross-country move—can lead to better care and support.

If you're a dad navigating autism, this episode offers raw honesty, encouragement, and solidarity.

TOPICS:
- The emotional complexity of publicly sharing your child's autism journey
- Dealing with delayed milestones and reframing success as an autism parent
- Managing self-injurious behaviors and the importance of proper medical care
- Why David’s family relocated from West Virginia to Missouri for better autism resources
- The spiritual and emotional resilience built through fatherhood
- Finding small wins: from water bottles to grilled cheese
- The importance of community, grief, and realistic expectations

GUEST LINKS:
David Lee – Popcorn Theology: https://linktr.ee/popcorntheology

ADVERTISING LINKS:
Dads In Autismland Membership: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES:
- "We thought it was just ear infections… but then came the self-injury. That changed everything."
- "Grief, when processed right, can bring clarity—not just sadness."
- "Putting on shoes after a year of refusal? That was our Super Bowl."
- "You’re not alone. There are other dads who will nod and say, ‘Same here, man.’"
- "Moving states felt impossible—until it became absolutely necessary."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

Support the show