Dr. Leonard Abbeduto is the Director of the MIND Institute at UC Davis. He shares their philosophy about putting families first. The Institute has grown over the years to service those with autism and other related conditions, including Fragile X syndrome. He stresses the importance of early diagnosis. Dr. Abbeduto and his team are at the forefront of research and development in their field. They use technology to reach clients in other states and countries. The ground-breaking college program at UC Davis for people with IDD is one of the first of its kind.

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Dr. Randi Hagerman and her team at the MIND Institute discovered a version of Fragile X Syndrome (FXTAS) in adults. She discusses the relationship between Fragile X and autism in both adults and children. Fragile X is often misdiagnosed. It can lead to debilitating physical and cognitive symptoms. Dr. Hagerman states that it is very important for someone with autism to get tested. Knowing about Fragile X is essential for the individual as well as their family members. She shares information about different treatments that are available. Dr. Hagerman emphasizes that it is possible to improve the quality of life for those with this and other associated conditions..

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Rebecca Beam is the Founder and CEO of Zavikon. She helps those who are disabled or neurodiverse get employment and build careers. Rebecca’s passion opens doors at all levels in both larger and smaller companies. Her clients find work in many employment fields. Rebecca feels that a successful experience is a two-way street. First, it’s important to prepare the potential employee for success. Second, it’s just as important to educate the employer about the best ways to add neurodiverse and disabled individuals to their inclusion efforts.

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Lindsay Recknell returns to ARP to share some inspiring suggestions on how to have those potentially awkward conversations on the subject of mental health. Compassion, awareness, and acceptance are all key to encouraging open communication, and actively creating the space to give our friends and loved ones the opportunity they need to reach out to us during difficult times.

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In a two-part episode, Tom Iland discusses his perspective on romance and relationships for those with autism, as well as important tips for interacting safely with law enforcement and first responders. His experience and shared wisdom have both enhanced and saved lives. What a great way to start the New Year!

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In a two-part episode, Tom Iland discusses his perspective on romance and relationships for those with autism, as well as important tips for interacting safely with law enforcement and first responders. His experience and shared wisdom have both enhanced and saved lives. What a great way to start the New Year!

Click here to listen.

Suad Bisogno, Executive Director of Integrated Resources Institute, shares the passion, strategies, and support model that IRI has used to successfully place 93% of their clients into gainful employment regardless of the intellectual or physical challenges they face. She shares her philosophy about employment barriers and misconceptions for the differently-abled and how to deal with and overcome them.

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Jake Weiner, certified trainer and founder of Zooz Fitness, discusses the benefits of exercise, many of which are often overlooked. He emphasizes the extraordinary amount of satisfaction and well-being enjoyed by his clients at Zooz, all of whom have some sort of special need. He shares his unique approach to developing an exercise program and the best way to get started.

Michel Pascal, multi-faceted artist, meditation teacher, and author, shares the intricacies of his unique approach to meditation that makes meditating and calming the mind easily accessible to anyone, regardless of the challenges they may face. He cites examples of his success with this technique within the special and different needs communities, as well as other populations that are marginalized or often overlooked. 

Jessica Patching-Bunch, stress resilience coach, returns to share some stress relieving tips and exercises that are easily learned and done from the comfort of home or anywhere you are when the need arises.