Autistic: Beyond the Label

About Autistic: Beyond the Label

Hey, have you made an autistic child smile today? Let's talk about what we are learning as we parent, teach and provide fundamental services to autistic children and youth. If you are reading this, you probably already know about Temple Grandin, one of the world's foremost autism advocates. Check out mr recent two-part interview with Dr. Grandin. Come back for a new interview and book review each month!

Publisher

Dana Colarusso, Ph.D., Mom

Category

kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

6 Apr 2025

Latest episode

22 Dec 2025

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Dec 2025

   Whatever It Takes: Theresa's Story

   If your autistic child has meltdowns, displays unusualbehaviours, and scores low on psychometric tests, is it reasonable to hope that he or she can have a bright future? What about success in post- secondary education or a chance at a satisfying career? In thisepisode of Autistic: Beyond the Label, I will explore these questions with Theresa, a dental hygienist from Ontario, Canada who is the mom of two grown boys, the oldest one, Michael, being autistic. What is clear in listening to the story of Theresa and her autistic son, is that where you begin in your autism journey need not determine where you arrive. Even after a healthy start new setbacks can emerge which seem to threatenthe progress that your child is making. However, Theresa shows us that a willingness to ask questions, to seek the right help for both you and your child, and to try, and try again, can make --as it did with her own son -- all the difference. Theresa describes her son’s “blossoming” from a child with tics and odd behaviours who struggled in school and was two years behind his peers in reading, to a thriving university scholar. She also recounts some of the unconventional steps she took to overcome obstacles: For example, her decision to show a psychologist videotapes of her child’s concerning behaviours and her own difficultefforts to manage them.  When new challenges arose in her son’s teen years, she turned to the same technique toensure that the most effective intervention was identified. Theresa opens up about the fears and doubts that haunted her as she struggled to understand and find answers to her son’s condition.  Many parents will relate to the challenge of dealing with conflicting information and advice. She alsoshares what she has learned about the psychological conditions that often go along with autism and how they can be effectively managed. Gradually with each new success, Theresa learned to let go of the low expectations that seemed to accompany an ASD diagnosis, and to recognize and celebrateher son’s growing skills and strengths, leading to his enrolment in university where he is now excelling in his secondyear.  Theresa’s story about raising her autistic son Michael to his full potential is an inspiring reminder that autistickids must have the same access to pathways that the neurotypical world takes for granted. A Note about the diagnosis: In our conversation, the fact that Theresa’s son was alsotested by a pediatric psychologist by way of a play session was incidentally left out. Music composed by and provided with the permission of Peterde Mello. Research: Front Psychiatry. 2022 Feb 28;13:768586. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2022.768586 Recognizing Psychosis in Autism Spectrum Disorder Michele Ribolsi 1,*, Federico Fiori Nastro 2,3, MartinaPelle 2,3, Caterina Medici 2,3, Silvia Sacchetto 2,3, Giulia Lisi 4, AssiaRiccion     i 5, Martina Siracusano 6,Luigi Mazzone 5, Giorgio Di Lorenzo 2,3,… https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11f0019m/11f0019m2024004-eng.htm (https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11f0019m/11f0019m2024004-eng.htm) https://universityaffairs.ca/news/neurodiversity-in-canadian-postsecondary-education/ (https://universityaffairs.ca/news/neurodiversity-in-canadian-postsecondary-education/) Resources: https://www.ontario.ca/page/identifying-students-special-education-needs Look for psychological and behavioural services in yourlocal area. Here are a few in Ontario: https://www.autismontario.com/programs-services/adults/mental-health-resources (https://www.autismontario.com/programs-services/adults/mental-health-resources) https://kinarkautismservices.ca/request-a-free-consultation/utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=sa_kinark_autismcentretoronto_ (https://kinarkautismservices.ca/request-a-free-consultation/utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=sa_kinark_autismcentretoronto_) 2025&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=19781378094&gbraid=0AAAAApZpaICJnAuVjXy79ZJ_9oR54ACD_&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjJTKBhCjARIsAIMC44_ 2DUoaF9pXIenvAr_csyG3ziqzW8ezj0GyrKV4Ugjge8Cq1gJEBUcaAuooEALw_wcB https://thefamilyhelpnetwork.ca/services/autism-and-behavioural-services/ (https://thefamilyhelpnetwork.ca/services/autism-and-behavioural-services/)

2. 

   2 Dec 2025

   Fall Down 7 Tiimes, Get Up 8

   This full length episode follows from the October 26 previewepisode titled Higashida’s Alphabet Grid. In this review of Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8, advocate Beth McBarnett joins me, Dr. Dana Colarusso, in a methodical consideration of this work as both a unique portrait of one man's experience of autism in his own words (published pre-AI, no less!), and a starlit sky of guidance for understanding autism from the inside out. Along the way, we marvel at the evidence of one man's transformation from non-verbal autistic to a far-reaching authorial voice. Bibliographic Information: Title: Fall Down 7 Times Get Up Eight: A young man’svoice from the silence of autism by Naoki Higashida. With introduction by David Mitchell. Originally written in Japanese - translated by KA Yoshidaand David Mitchel. Published in UK by Random House, July 2017 Published in Canada by Knop, July 2017 Music for this podcast composed by and used with the permission of Peter J de Mello.

3. 

   7 Nov 2025

   Insights on Occupational Therapy: An Interview with Cathy Vey, OT

   Cathy Vey is a Canadian Occupational Therapist registered with the ⁠College of Occupational Therapists of Ontario.⁠ (https://www.coto.org/) She isa member of the ⁠Ontario Society of Occupational Therapists⁠ (https://www.osot.on.ca/). Cathy has over 20 years of experience providing occupational therapy services for infants, children, and adolescents with a wide range of needs and abilities. She has also worked with other groups such as Veterans. In this episode of Autistic Beyond the Label, podcast host Dr. Dana Colarusso interviews Cathy Vey about what occupational therapy is and how it can help autistic kids. Cathy Vey shares her knowledge of how occupational therapists tailor the therapy program to the individual child’s specific needs and goals. She explains the difference between top-down and bottom-up strategies, and the dual focus on need-to-do and want-to-do goals. In this conversation, Dr. Dana Colarusso and Cathy Vey explore the different facets of occupational therapy, especially in regard to children with autism, including: *The ways in which occupational therapy can help children participate in daily activities at home, at school, and in the community *the importance of parental involvement *the role of sensory processing and stimming in therapy. The discussion also highlights success stories and the various therapeutic approaches used to support children's development. Cathy Vey can be reached at her website: cathyveyot.com Music composed by and used with the permission of Peter de Mello.

4. 

   1 Nov 2025

   A Spooky Autistic Tale called The Framed Women of Ardemore House

   Scary tales with autistic heroines? In this review of The Framed Women of Ardemore House Dr. Dana Colarusso explores relatively new literary phenomenon of the autistic heroine. In this case, the female protagonist Jo Jones is victim, suspect, and investigator, all three. Yet as an autistic character she lends a new perspective on the roles neurodivergent individuals can play in both life and art. The mix of strengths and weaknesses, sensory, neurological, and social, in the atypical heroine make for a refreshing take on the familiar mystery novel formula. Along the way, we look at one of the character's stated autistic conditions: hyperlexia, and its various ways of presenting. Schillace, Brandy. The Framed Women of Ardemore House. Hanover Square press. February 13, 2024. Hyperlexia. Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors (https://www.webmd.com/webmd-editorial-contributors)      Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD (https://www.webmd.com/bio/jabeen-begum) on October 09, 2023 https://www.webmd.com/children/what-is-hyperlexia (https://www.webmd.com/children/what-is-hyperlexia) When Babies Read: A Practical Guide to Helping Young Children with Hyperlexia, Asperger Syndrome and High-Functioning Autism by Audra Jensen and Peter Steen Jensen. Published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. August 8, 2005. (https://www.amazon.ca/When-Babies-Read-Hyperlexia-High-Functioning/dp/1843108038/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1KW6ZTXY245VF&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sgD7CVNaYqRF-U0VEb6YwArJ-IBrblkfOXBoUdWeea7ioAr4g73QdWLKT0xU3L6iOV4TjdotURfAD1IDLgUph96e3amMmaMwkhIVPX3WU7hwzhBAVQBiHlk17cDwejzPeRAYvmT-awoaaYtHvb6UcQ.gJyuYcAdfHWcsXVJzwDGiw5srq4KCfkwpSA5QweaYoU&dib_tag=se&keywords=hyperlexia&qid=1761963378&s=books&sprefix=hyperlexia%2Cstripbooks%2C108&sr=1-1)Music excerpt from Youtube, Hocus Pocus. Dog sound effects by Tobi the dog.

5. 

   26 Oct 2025

   Higashida's Alphabet Grid

   The Alphabet Grid is a key to understanding Naoki Higashida's sequel to The Reason I Jump, titled Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8. In this introduction to the upcoming review of his sequel, guest Beth McBarnett helps us describe the importance of the alphabet grid for appreciating the significance of Higashida's work. As David Mitchell explains in his introduction to the sequel, unlocking communication in nonverbal autistic individuals can help us question possible assumptions about the link between cognitive and communicative barriers. Podcast by Dana Colarusso with guest narrator Beth McBarnett. Music created by and used with the permission of Peter de Mello.

6. 

   1 Sept 2025

   Two Surprising Books by Young Autistic Authors

   Have you ever wondered what is going on inside the minds of autistic kids? Is there a way we can find clues to the reasons behind their actions? More and more, autism researchers are turning to the first hand accounts of autistic children themselves. Two early harbingers of this trend are Daniel Safanski's How to Talk to An Autistic Kid and Naoki Hagoshida's The Reason I Jump. Taking a sidetrip from science and psychology to explore anecdotal accounts of autistic individuals themselves can yield deeply helpful and meaningful insights. How to Talk to An Autistic Kid by Daniel Stefanski with contributors Eric Braun and Hazel Mitchell. Minneapolis: Free Spirit Publishing, 2011. The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen Year Old Boy with Autism. New York: Random House, 2013. Host Dana Colarusso with guest narrator Peter de Mello. Music for this podcast provided by and used with the permission of Peter de Mello.

7. 

   29 Jul 2025

   Hum Breathe Sing: Discovering Music Therapy with Roxanne Christian

   What is music therapy? Can it help kids with autism? In this episode, I interview Roxanne Christian, an international board certified music therapist, who shares her journey into music therapy and the profound impact it can have on emotional well-being, particularly for children on the autism spectrum. Roxanne discusses the applications and modalities of music therapy, its tailored approach to individual needs, and the therapeutic power of music beyond just listening. She emphasizes the importance of using voice as medicine, the role of breath work, and the significance of gratitude in therapy. The conversation highlights the growing awareness of music therapy as a valuable tool for mental health and emotional support. https://www.youtube.com/@roxlllmusic https://livelovelifemusic.com/ Roxanne Christian is also the moderator for the Daily Gratitude Movement on Clubhouse. Intro and outro music created by and used with the permission of Peter de Mello.

8. 

   28 Jul 2025

   Hum, Breathe, Sing: Discovering Music Therapy

   What is music therapy? Can it help kids with autism? In this episode, I interview Roxanne Christian, an international board certified music therapist, who shares her journey into music therapy and its profound impact it can have on emotional well-being, particularly for children on the autism spectrum. Roxanne discusses the principles of music therapy, its tailored approach to individual needs, and the therapeutic power of music beyond just listening. She emphasizes the importance of using voice as medicine, the role of breath work, and the significance of gratitude in therapy. Our conversation highlights the growing awareness of music therapy as a valuable tool for mental health and emotional support. https://livelovelifemusic.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@roxlllmusic Roxanne Christian is also a moderator for the Daily Gratitude Movement in Clubhouse. Music in this podcast created by and used with the permission of Peter de Mello.

9. 

   3 Jul 2025

   Atypical Characters and Their Helper Guides

   Dr. Dana Colarusso and Beth McBarnett explore the evolution of atypical characters in media, highlighting the shift from tragic portrayals to more hopeful perspectives and the crucial role of supportive characters.

10. 

    28 Jun 2025

    Part 2 Interview with Dr. Temple Grandin

    Dr. Temple Grandin shares insights on visual thinking, communication barriers, medication balance, and employment pathways for autistic individuals in an interview, offering a comprehensive perspective.

11. 

    1 Jun 2025

    7 Keys to Unlock Autism: Making Miracles in the Classroom

    Host Dana Colarusso and narrator Beth McBarnett review "7 Keys to Unlock Autism" by Elaine Hall and Diane Isaacs, discussing the authors' experiences and insights into understanding autistic children in an interview.

12. 

    30 May 2025

    Interview with Dr. Temple Grandin Part One

    Dr. Temple Grandin shares her experiences as an autistic individual, discussing life skills, communication, sensory sensitivities, and career development in an interview with the hosts.

13. 

    1 May 2025

    My Big Autism Reading Adventure and 3 Mini Reviews

    Host Dana Colarusso shares her autism reading adventure, reviewing books by Fern Sussman, Judith Newman, and Temple Grandin, emphasizing communication, sensory processing, and recognizing the unique strengths of autistic individuals.

14. 

    28 Apr 2025

    Discovering and Shaping the Care Community: An Interview with Beth McBarnett

    Beth McBarnett, Ambassador at Grandview Kids, recounts her experiences navigating her son's autism diagnosis, highlighting the critical role of community support and celebrating developmental milestones in this interview.

15. 

    6 Apr 2025

    Introducing Autistic: Beyond the Label

    Dana Colarusso introduces 'Autistic: Beyond the Label,' emphasizing empathy and understanding for autism, highlighting the need for a supportive community to share resources and strategies.

Podcast Authority Score: 32 / 100

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