The Gap explores the critical space between what first responders see and what’s actually happening beneath the surface.
Hosted by Dustin Chandler, the show dives into real-world encounters involving autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and high-stress decision-making. Through conversations with clinicians, experts, and those with lived experience, the podcast translates clinical science into street-level tactics—and how better understanding leads to better decisions.
This isn’t about slowing down. It’s about thinking clearly.
Dr. Benjamin Yerys from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia joins host Dustin Chandler, retired police officer, to discuss the co-occurrence of autism and ADHD (AuDHD) and what it means for real-world interactions—especially with law enforcement. He breaks down how overlapping traits can impact communication, impulse control, stress response, and behavior during high-pressure encounters.
Dr. Yerys also shares practical, research-informed strategies that officers can use to improve communication, reduce escalation, and better understand individuals with AuDHD. This episode offers valuable insight for law enforcement, first responders, educators, and families seeking a deeper understanding of how autism and ADHD together can shape behavior—and how the right approach can make all the difference.
31 Jul 2023
National Security Agencies & Neurodiversity w/ Cortney Weinbaum
Cortney Weinbaum, Senior National Security Researcher, with the Rand Corporation discusses her teams study about neurodiversity and national security agency positions. Such a great study and one I pray will bring much needed change to current policies within our national security agencies and military.
Links discussed:
Military Times Op-Ed:
https://bit.ly/3KiwjHy (https://bit.ly/3KiwjHy)
Full Rand Corp Study: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1875-1.html (https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA1875-1.html)
11 Jul 2023
Autism: A Dad's Journey w/ Guest Todd Tomerlin
This episode's guest is Todd Tomerlin of Athens, Alabama to discuss his journey as a parent of a child with autism. The ups and downs, relationships with spouse, his opinion vaccines & autism, plus some good advice for caregivers.
You're not alone in your journey no matter what diagnosis. Reach out!
8 Jul 2023
EAS Requests point to need of more Adult Support in Autism
There is no debate. Here in the United States we need more adult support options for those on the spectrum and/or with intellectual disability, now. We also need to care more for our neighbor. Love wins.
Link to study discussed in episode:
https://bit.ly/eas_study_cambridge
10 Aug 2022
Importance of Community Safety Training
It's important to be on the same page with first responders when it comes to an emergency event and someone with a developmental disability. Misunderstanding can lead to mistakes which we want to avoid! info@interactionadvisorygroup.com
11 Jun 2022
Understanding Sensory Sensitivities is Crucial for Good Communication in Police Work
Understanding the sensory sensitivities that come along with many developmental disabilities such as autism is very important. Communication is critical in police work and safe interactions with the public. We understand from many of the self-advocates we work with and through many hours of practical research, all five senses can be "firing" off at one time for an autistic person making it extremely difficult to focus and understand certain communication from police during high stress calls.
This video aims to help police officers understand what it may be like for an autistic person when this occurs. It is important to note, not all cases of autism are the same, so sensory sensitivities may not be the same for each individual.
It is important to know this, adjust your communication style, and ensure the individual is understanding of what you, as the officer, want them to do. Training combined with empathy is paramount.
26 Apr 2022
Mental Health and Students - What You Need To Know
School Psychologist, Ameet Bosmia, joins the IAG Podcast to discuss mental health and students. 50%-70% of bullying cases go unreported by the student. Bosmia gives his advice to parents who suspect their child is being bullied and signs to look for in depression.
If you are having suicidal thoughts please call:
National Suicide Hotline - 1-800-273-8255
or visit
Suicide Prevention Website: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org
12 Apr 2022
Students with Disabilities and Bullying
Students with autism spectrum disorder are statistically more likely to be bullied. We cover three basic things that we think are important.
Resources:
Check out this study that looks at positive school environment leading to less bullying for seventh graders:
https://capmh.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13034-022-00456-z?fbclid=IwAR0EzPLn0FVDDdiwLUb3Tp6mkyH8yiBJqddHjZ7zZWSSCzVmN1kMPtu6FQo
Link to help Stop Bullying:
https://www.stopbullying.gov/bullying/special-needs
28 Mar 2022
Interview with Project Lifesaver Founder, Chief Gene Saunders
Tracking technology can be one of the best tools in helping locate a loved one who has wandered. In this episode, the founder of the tracking tech Project Lifesaver talks to us about the technology and how it works.
We suggest visiting their website and seeing if Project Lifesaver is a good option for your situation.
www.projectlifesaver.org
*this is not a product endorsement*
18 Mar 2022
Raising Autism - A Parents Perspective
Dustin talks with parent/advocate, Stacey Givens(Athens,AL). Stacey shares about her son Brooks and their journey. She also shares advice for new parents beginning an autism journey with their loved one.
25 Feb 2022
Interview with Alabama Regional Autism Coordinator Cody Farmer
Don't know where to turn when looking for autism services for your loved one? Cody Farmer, from the Department of Mental Health - Autism Coordinator (Region V), explains the Regional Autism Networks and what his role is in helping families. We also discuss resources for law enforcement and other first responders to help them navigate any challenges they may have.
15 Feb 2022
Learn About The ID Registry IfINeedHelp.Org
IfIneedhelp.org is a 501(c)3 organization founded by two parents who saw they need to help their son if he wandered or was separated from them. Learn about the beginnings and how you can use their products and website to help your loved one stay safe in a wandering event.
4 Feb 2022
Autism: Communication Tips for First Responders
Communication is very important especially during an emergency event. During this episode, instructor Dustin Chandler, shares a few things you need to be aware of during communication.
13 Jan 2022
What is Alignment?
IAG believes in a team approach to managing any situation especially when it comes to emergency response. Who should be in alignment and why?
11 Jan 2022
Caregivers and First Responders: Knowing Autism and Wandering
Tragically a seven year old child lost her life on January 10, 2022, after being struck by a vehicle as she walked in traffic. We know the dangers of wandering and want you to know the dangers too. This episode will help emphasize the importance of knowing about wandering for first responders AND caregivers.
10 Jan 2022
About IAG's Co-Founder and Lead Instructor, Dustin Chandler
Learn more about Dustin Chandler and how he thought it was important to create a company dedicated to helping first responders understand certain mental health conditions.
10 Jan 2022
Introduction to The IAG Podcast - Signal 13
Hey, did you know Interaction Advisory Group has a podcast that covers autism, developmental disabilities and other mental health conditions! Please give us a follow and a like.
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