The David Kaufer Podcast: The Lighter Side of the Spectrum

Spelling to Communicate Works. Why the Resistance?

Host David Kaufer and producer David Yas delve into the controversy surrounding the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and their stance against the Spelling to Communicate (S2C) methodology. The discussion highlights how ASHA's opposition impacts non-speakers, including Kaufer's son, Stone, who experienced a breakthrough using S2C. The hosts explore the potential motives behind ASHA's position, the legal implications, and the grassroots efforts to promote inclusive communication methods. This episode serves as a call to action for parents, educators, and advocates to challenge ASHA's stance and push for the recognition of effective communication rights for all.
 
Topics
 
01:02 Today's Topic: ASHA and Communication Rights
02:18 Personal Stories and Experiences
04:07 Challenges with ASHA's Position
11:03 Financial and Legal Implications
12:43 Technical Difficulties and Resuming Discussion
15:02 Exploring Potential Conspiracies
20:47 Court Rules and Hypnosis
21:33 Risks and Benefits in Healthcare
22:13 Presuming Competence in Autism
25:34 Challenges with Bureaucracy
27:09 Scientific Research and Funding
29:03 The Impact of Communication Methods
35:40 Call to Action for Parents and Community
40:39 Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

Spelling Practitioner Meghann Parkinson

David talks with Meghann Parkinson, a practice spelling practitioner who has been instrumental in helping non-speaking individuals communicate. They discuss Meghann's unique journey from working in a hair salon to becoming a critical member of the non-speaking community, particularly through the S2C (Spelling to Communicate) method. The conversation covers how Meghann integrates fun and games into communication practice, the importance of presuming competence, and the profound impact her work has had on families, including David's own son, Stone. Practical insights on the progression of learning to spell, the science and philosophy behind the method, and the role of emotional and cognitive support in this journey, make this episode a deep dive into the transformative power of effective communication strategies for non-speakers.
 
Topics
 
00:31 Meet Meghann Parkinson: A Key Family Member
02:04 The Journey of Spelling to Communicate
03:52 Meghann's Background and Entry into S2C
09:28 Challenges and Biases in the Field
11:21 The Importance of Presuming Competence
17:20 The Process of Learning to Spell
25:31 Challenges with Communication Methods
27:37 Progression with Letter Boards
29:04 Transformative Moments in Communication
31:20 Understanding Non-Speakers
34:24 Autism Fact or Fiction
36:41 Q&A with Meg
42:36 Tip of the Week: Fun and Games
44:30 Closing Remarks and Future Guests

Psychologist & Neurodiversity Coach Maike Preißing

In this episode of 'The Lighter Side of the Spectrum,' David sits down with Maike Preißing, a neurodivergent psychologist and artist, to delve into the world of synesthesia and neurodiversity. Maike explains her personal experiences with synesthesia, a phenomenon where the senses cross in extraordinary ways, leading to unique sensory experiences such as seeing colors when hearing music or feeling pain. They discuss the genetic components, common misconceptions, and the significant overlap between synesthesia and autism, particularly highlighting its high occurrence within the autistic community. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding and validating neurodivergent experiences. Additionally, David shares personal insights from his son, Stone, who also experiences synesthesia. The episode provides valuable resources and tips for parents and educators to better understand and support neurodiverse individuals.
 
Topics
 
00:29 Meet Maike Preißing: Neurodivergent Psychologist
00:49 Understanding Synesthesia
02:10 The Science Behind Synesthesia
06:47 Synesthesia and Autism Connection
14:48 Sensory Sensitivities and Emotional Regulation
19:32 Exploring Food Sensitivities
22:18 Discovering Synesthesia in Childhood
24:57 Visualizing Music and Pain
28:38 Common Misconceptions About Synesthesia
30:33 Fact or Fiction: Debunking Myths
31:39 Understanding Synesthesia vs. Hallucination
32:42 Encouraging Empathy and Reducing Stigma
33:58 Fact or Fiction: The Rarity of Synesthesia
34:31 Exploring Mirror Pain and Mirror Touch Synesthesia
36:28 The Non-Speaking World and Heightened Sensitivities
44:53 Supporting Communication for Non-Speakers
57:49 The Synesthesia Tree: A Valuable Resource
01:01:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Navigating Autism Through Advocacy: Rebecca Engle

David welcomes guest Rebecca Engle, an inspirational author, advocate, and educator specializing in special education and autism awareness. Rebecca shares her journey from being a nonverbal child to becoming an accomplished professional advocating for inclusive education. The discussion covers her book 'Step Into My Shoes,' her perspectives on special education law, and her volunteer work with the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint. Rebecca provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in creating inclusive school environments and offers practical tips for supporting autistic individuals. The episode also explores Rebecca’s personal interests in knitting and her mission to drive impactful change in the field of autism education and advocacy.
 
Topics
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:31 Meet Rebecca Engle: Advocate and Educator
01:46 Rebecca's Personal Journey
03:37 Challenges and Triumphs in Communication
07:21 The Impact of Diet on Autism
08:58 Rebecca's Book: Step Into My Shoes
12:54 Special Education Law and Advocacy
16:04 Creating Inclusive School Environments
25:00 Autism Tip of the Week
26:43 Autism Fact or Fiction
28:18 Rebecca's Volunteering and Personal Interests
33:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Unlocking Communication with Renee Chaffee

David interviews Renee Chaffee, a licensed speech-language pathologist and certified S2C practitioner. Together, they delve into Renee's journey from an ABA tutor in Canada to establishing her practice in Las Vegas while championing unconventional communication methods for non-speaking individuals. The discussion covers the mechanics of Spelling to Communicate (S2C), early intervention strategies, the importance of presuming competence, and the limitations of traditional AAC methods. The episode also includes a 'Tip of the Week' on the power of listening and an 'Autism Fact or Fiction' segment debunking myths about non-speaking individuals' literacy. The episode concludes with a call for more inclusive and understanding approaches toward individuals on the autism spectrum.
 
Topics
 
00:35 Meet Renee Chaffee: A Journey in Speech Language Pathology
01:37 Renee's Early Career and ABA Tutoring
03:54 Transition to Las Vegas and School District Work
07:41 Challenges and Successes in Early Intervention
10:53 Discovering Spelling to Communicate (S2C)
17:20 Understanding Apraxia and Communication Challenges
23:47 The Role of Motor Skills in Communication
29:04 Understanding the Importance of Spelling
29:39 Creative Writing and Motor Control
30:44 The Role of Regulation in Learning
32:04 Building Trust and Communication
35:50 The Presumption of Competence
38:13 Challenges and Misconceptions in Education
41:07 The Evolution of Communication Methods
43:54 Supporting Communication and Autonomy
46:20 Tip of the Week: Listening and Intelligence
50:07 Autism Fact or Fiction: Spelling and Literacy
01:00:02 Conclusion and Future Discussions

Autism Advocacy with Crystal Jordan

In this episode of 'The Lighter Side of the Spectrum,' host David Kaufer delves into the heart and humor of parenting kids and teens on the autism spectrum. David is joined by Crystal Jordan, co-founder of Becoming Her Magazine and a passionate autism advocate. Crystal shares her personal journey of advocacy, which began with writing her book 'Just Like You' to represent Black children with autism. The conversation covers Crystal's experiences with her son's diagnosis, how she became an unintentional advocate, and her insights into the importance of inclusivity in customer service. She also offers valuable advice for autism parents, emphasizing the significance of self-care. Tune in for touching stories, practical tips, and a deeper understanding of autism advocacy.
 
More on Crystal at https://www.becominghermagazine.com/
 
Topics
 
00:54 Special Guest: Crystal Jordan
01:38 Crystal's Advocacy Journey
03:40 Personal Stories and Experiences
04:02 Navigating Diagnosis and Early Intervention
12:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Communication
20:43 Personal Reflections and Early Social Media Influences
21:41 Unlocking Potential and Overcoming Doubts
22:43 Advocacy and Effective IEP Strategies
26:07 Supporting the Show and Professional Services
27:43 Autism Tip of the Week: Self-Care for Parents
30:41 Autism Fact or Fiction: Dispelling Myths
34:56 Promoting Autism Awareness in the Workplace
39:10 Crystal Jordan's Advocacy and Resources
40:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Insights and Hope with Rich DeCicco

David is joined by Rich DeCicco to discuss the ups and downs of parenting autistic children. Rich shares his personal journey, the challenges he's faced, and his mission to help other parents through evidence-based strategies. From handling unexpected meltdowns to repairing relationships and understanding that behavior is communication, this episode offers valuable insights for any parent raising neurodivergent kids. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, proper communication, and practical strategies that have worked for Rich's family. Tune in for an enlightening discussion filled with real-life stories, expert advice, and a hopeful outlook on the future of parenting on the autism spectrum.
 
Topics
 
01:43 Rich's Parenting Journey
03:20 Facing the Autism Diagnosis
05:03 Navigating Parenting Challenges During the Pandemic
05:42 Developing Strategies and Seeing Progress
07:11 Goals and Social Skills Development
09:01 Role-Playing and Handling Surprises
11:44 Parental Self-Improvement and Modeling Behavior
16:26 Communication Challenges and Breakthroughs
21:06 Dealing with Parenting Stress and Vulnerability
23:36 Repairing Relationships and Self-Forgiveness
27:11 Repairing Relationships with Your Child
27:57 The Importance of Apologizing
28:23 Reflecting on Childhood
29:25 Parenting Approaches and Changes
30:00 Safety and Boundaries
30:36 Handling Mistakes and Repairs
34:57 Understanding Behavior as Communication
35:37 Journaling and Identifying Triggers
38:36 Empathy and Perspective in Parenting
39:32 Proactive Communication with Schools
41:10 Autism Fact or Fiction
43:46 Personal Stories and Experiences
48:10 Coaching and Resources for Parents
51:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Invisible Disabilities with Michelle Steiner

In this episode of 'The Lighter Side of the Spectrum,' David welcomes Michelle Steiner, a writer, photographer, and paraeducator who has defied expectations despite her invisible learning disability. Michelle shares her journey from being diagnosed in kindergarten to overcoming educational and social challenges. She discusses the misconceptions surrounding invisible disabilities and emphasizes the importance of advocacy, perseverance, and the support systems that helped her succeed. Michelle's insights offer valuable lessons for parents, educators, and individuals navigating similar paths.
Topics
00:34 Living with an Invisible Disability
00:55 Michelle Steiner's Journey
02:12 Early Challenges and Diagnosis
03:32 Understanding Dyscalculia
05:33 Support Systems and Advocacy
07:22 Academic and Social Struggles
09:58 College and Career Aspirations
20:01 Encouraging Self-Advocacy
25:27 Advice for Parents and Caregivers
27:28 Autism Fact or Fiction
28:48 Conclusion and Resources

Empowering Neurodivergent People with Megan Kohler

David talks with Megan Kohler, founder of Megan Kohler Consulting and Penn State professor, to discuss improving higher education opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. They explore the journey of learning design, neurodiversity, and Kohler’s extensive work in making education more accessible. The conversation highlights the significance of blended learning and technology, addresses the misconceptions around neurodivergence, and shares personal experiences and practical tips for parents and educators. Kohler emphasizes the need for better support systems and understanding within educational environments.
 
Topics
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:32 Megan's Journey into Learning Design
02:08 Understanding Learning Design
04:57 Effective Learning Strategies
08:44 Personal Stories and Neurodivergence
13:41 Challenges in Diagnosis and Support
15:55 Supporting Neurodivergent Students in Higher Education
20:57 Promoting Awareness and Change
22:30 Neuro-Inclusive Standards for Faculty
23:49 Current State of Neurodiversity in Education
25:36 Student Feedback and Faculty Awareness
27:03 Tip of the Week: Apollo Neuro
31:52 Tip of the Week: Reframing for Productivity
40:12 Fact or Fiction: Autism and Communication
44:52 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics

Inclusive Education: Breaking Barriers with Tony Beals

The guest is Tony Beals, VP of Admissions and Enrollment Solutions at Brightmind Academy. David and Tony  discuss the challenges parents of autistic children face in traditional public schools and the benefits of alternative education models. Tony shares his journey from a public school teacher to an advocate for individualized education at Brightmont Academy, where he emphasizes personalized learning and building confidence in neurodiverse students. They also touch on financial aspects, legal requirements, and the importance of exploring all educational options for the best fit. The episode concludes with practical tips for parents and a look into various student engagement activities available at Brightmont.
 
Topics
 
00:32 Meet Tony Beals from Bright Mind Academy
02:10 Tony's Journey in Education
02:59 The Brightmont Academy Approach
07:52 Stone's Story: A Real-World Example
17:58 Fact or Fiction: Public School Requirements
19:55 Transparency Issues in Education
20:19 Alternative Education Options
20:53 Socialization in One-to-One Education
25:35 Hiring and Curriculum at Brightmont
31:57 Parental Advice and Options
33:40 Cost and Financial Considerations
36:23 Concluding Thoughts on Autism and Education