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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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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.

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In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness, to explore the long-term importance of physical health for autistic individuals.

Eric shares his journey from personal trainer to autism fitness pioneer, offering insights into motivation, movement planning, and individualized training for children and adults on the spectrum.

With practical advice, personal stories, and thoughtful strategies, this episode empowers dads to prioritize their child's physical health—regardless of age or verbal ability. From behavior-specific praise to handling meltdowns in the gym, Eric delivers tools and encouragement for every autism dad.

TOPICS:

• Why fitness is a lifelong priority for children and adults with autism
• How behavior science and fitness training intersect in Autism Fitness
• Strategies for motivation, including choice and behavior-specific praise
• Adapting exercise programs to individual needs and communication styles
• The importance of consistency, reinforcement, and celebrating small wins
• Managing meltdowns and behavior issues in fitness sessions
• How fitness translates into confidence and independence over time

GUEST LINKS:
Eric Chessen – Autism Fitness: https://www.autismfitness.com/

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

QUOTES:

• "There’s no such thing as an autism-specific exercise—it’s all about the implementation."
• "Choice and behavior-specific praise
• are my biggest coaching go-tos."
• "Fitness is an investment—compound interest over time builds capability and confidence."
• "I’ve seen athletes go from unable to squat to dominating ninja courses."
• "Even if they can’t communicate it, they often appreciate the structure and movement."

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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In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes fellow autism dad Mark Kendall for a heartfelt conversation about navigating public life with children on the autism spectrum.

Drawing from personal experiences with his 22-year-old nonverbal daughter, Mark Kendall opens up about the emotional and logistical challenges dads face—from handling staring strangers to managing safety in unpredictable situations.

Together, they share practical tips, honest stories, and a strong message of encouragement: you can go out, you can be confident, and you are your child’s best advocate. Whether you’re wrestling with your first family outing or planning a vacation with accommodations, this episode offers relatable support and empowering advice for autism dads everywhere.

TOPICS

• The role of autism dads as public advocates and "ambassadors"
• Tips for preparing outings with autistic children, including safety bags and routines
• How public expectations change as autistic kids become adults
• Strategies for handling unwanted attention and educating others
• Navigating travel, vacations, and community inclusion with autistic children
• Safety protocols, water risks, and long-term planning
• Emotional insights on adapting to autism parenting over time

ADVERTISING LINKS

Dads in Autismland Membership - The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

1. “You didn’t sign up to be an ambassador for autism—but you are one.”
2. “Dads need to feel confident bringing their kids into public spaces.”
3. “Everybody has their time limits—neurotypical or not.”
4. “Sometimes pulling the ripcord is the best decision for everyone.”
5. “If you're not prepared, you’re not protecting—so have a plan.”

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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In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Allan Young, founder of Autism Acres, a purpose-built sanctuary for children with autism and other special needs.

Allan shares his powerful journey from military service to creating a five-acre haven in Rochester, Washington for families like his own—including his three sons on the spectrum and a foster daughter with Down syndrome.

Listeners will learn about the hands-on life skills training Allan offers at home, the carefully designed features of Autism Acres (from elopement-safe fencing to sensory swings), and how he and his wife are fostering a safe, welcoming community grounded in compassion and faith. It’s an inspiring story of resilience, resourcefulness, and redefining support for families navigating autism.

TOPICS

• The origins and mission of Autism Acres in Washington
• Parenting multiple children on the autism spectrum and one with Down syndrome
• Designing a safe, sensory-friendly environment for children with special needs
• Transitioning from military life to full-time caregiving and homeschooling
• Building community through faith-based service without preaching
• Personal wellness and stress management strategies for autism dads
• The importance of structured flexibility in daily routines

GUEST LINKS

Allan Young – Autism Acres: https://autismacres.org

ADVERTISING LINKS

Dads In Autismland Membership – The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

“My son now has friends—it’s awesome. We needed this just as much as the families we’re trying to help.”

“We designed everything at Autism Acres with safety in mind—because eloping isn’t just a possibility, it’s a reality for a lot of us.”

“Caretaking is hard. Being alone in the house is hard. Coming home from work is hard. That’s why me and my wife make sure each other gets a break.”

“We didn’t want a structure so rigid it became a problem—we wanted routines that help our kids feel secure without trapping them in them.”

“We’re not a Christian organization—we’re an organization run by Christians. We’re not here to preach, we’re here to serve.”

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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In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes guest Matt Anderton, father of three-year-old Beckett, who was diagnosed with autism at just 13 months old.

Matt shares the emotional and practical aspects of their early diagnosis journey, the critical role nutrition and therapy have played, and his life-altering decision to leave a demanding job to become a full-time caregiver.

From the challenges of sleep deprivation to the triumph of Beckett saying his ABCs again, Matt's story is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the power of community. This candid conversation offers insight, empathy, and encouragement for every father navigating life on the autism spectrum.

TOPICS:

• The impact of early autism diagnosis and the rapid shift in developmental behavior
• How functional nutrition and supplements supported Beckett’s therapy progress
• The life-changing decision to leave a full-time job for full-time caregiving
• The daily realities of meltdowns, dietary sensitivities, and sleep disruption
• Tools and tips for sensory integration and public acclimation
• Building a supportive care network and finding the right professionals
• The emotional and relational toll — and strength — found in autism parenting

GUEST LINKS:

Spencer Dupre, Functional Medicine Practitioner: https://www.empowerchirotx.com/team

ADVERTISING LINKS:

Dads In Autismland Membership - The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

"We got two choices: put him on a prescription for life, or figure this out."

"It was like he wasn’t there—he went from talking to total silence. We thought he went deaf."

"I left my 70-hour-a-week job to be a full-time caregiver. We changed our whole life for our son."

"Sometimes you feel alone, and then someone sponsors your son for a speech camp, and you just break down."

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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In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Graeme Wright—a father, entrepreneur, and recovery coach—who shares an inspiring, faith-driven journey through adoption, autism, addiction, and personal transformation.

Graeme opens up about adopting two children from China, one of whom was later diagnosed with autism, and how this experience unearthed hidden wounds from his past. From relapsing into addiction to rebuilding his capacity to love and lead, Graeme shares how faith, community, and vulnerability reshaped his understanding of fatherhood.

With raw honesty, he explores the spiritual and emotional depths of raising a child on the spectrum while advocating for other fathers to break isolation and seek healing. Whether you’re a dad in crisis or one seeking connection, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and hope.

TOPICS:

• Adopting two children from China and discovering an unexpected autism diagnosis
• How faith and scripture helped reshape Graeme’s response to adversity
• Why secure attachment is critical for children, especially those with trauma
• The importance of community and male vulnerability in healing
• Lessons from operating a business that employed autistic adults
• Practical insights for dads learning to lead through love, not control

GUEST LINKS:

Graeme Wright – 837 Recovery and Coaching: https://837recovery.com

ADVERTISING LINKS:

The Pathfinder Collective Autism Dad Group: https://dadsinautismland.com/pathfinder

QUOTES

"Adoption didn’t just change my family—it revealed how selfish I really was. God used my son to break that in me."

"When life is all about you, you can’t see God’s plan. But when it becomes about His story, everything starts to make sense."

"You're not alone. Get out of the dark room, step into the light, and let other men surround you with love and truth."

"My son’s autism didn’t ruin my life—it refined it. I wouldn’t change anything, because through him, God brought me closer to who I’m supposed to be."

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