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Helping Families Go Beyond

Beyond The Spectrum

Here at Beyond the Spectrum we are a private, non-profit school who assist children with Autism, Down Syndrome, and related disabilities.
We have always served students but would like to be a stronger resource for the entire family.
In this podcast we will explain the various therapeutic interventions we provide for our individuals, discuss important processes for caregivers as their children grow older, and have conversations with parents, caregivers, and individuals about their journeys.

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20 episodes
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Avg 37 min
English

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October 19 · 43 min
The Power of Dance Beyond the Ballroom
Dance is about so much more than learning the steps. In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, Loryn Carpenter welcomes Sarah Lotoskyy and Judy Kozlowski of Dynasty Dance Clubs and Dynasty Stars Foundation to explore how dance helps individuals with disabilities build confidence, independence, friendships, and essential life skills. Through inspiring stories and personal experiences, they share how their inclusive dance programs are creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and transforming lives both inside and outside the ballroom. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Sarah Lotoskyy & Judy Kozlowski, Dynasty Dance Clubs & Dynasty Stars Foundation (03:55) Starting Dynasty Dance Clubs (11:00) Addressing a need in the community and ripple effects (15:50) The benefits of extracurriculars and improvements beyond dance (28:40) Dancers hosting at the annual luncheon (30:00) Starting Dynasty Stars Foundation (37:00) The future of Dynasty Stars Foundation
September 3 · 40 min
Preparing for What’s Next: School Readiness, Transitions, and Adulthood
Transitions can be challenging for students and families, whether it’s starting school for the first time, moving into a new classroom, adjusting to a new teacher, or preparing for life after graduation. In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, Loryn Carpenter is joined by school psychologist Dr. Valerie Roth and BCBA Dawn Wisniewski to discuss how families can help students prepare for change throughout their educational journey. They explore school readiness beyond academics, communication and independence skills, preparing for new routines and environments, transitioning toward employment and adulthood, and the importance of keeping evaluations, IEPs, and behavior plans up to date. They also discuss the bigger goal of education: helping students develop the skills, confidence, independence, and connections they need to be successful beyond the classroom. Timestamps: (00:00) School Updates (02:05) Introducing Valarie Roth and Dawn Wisnewski (03:45) What is school readiness? (10:25) Transitioning within school, moving classrooms, teachers, etc (15:00) How can we help our students adapt to change? (19:05) Are we preparing students to be successful in school or life? (23:45) What paperwork should parents be aware of when students are transitioning schools? (35:40) What does every family need to know before their child goes to high school?
August 5 · 27 min
Making the Back-to-School Transition Easier for Neurodiverse Learners
In this special back-to-school episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter shares practical tips from educators, therapists, parents, and caregivers at Beyond the Spectrum. Learn how routines, sensory supports, social stories, and self-advocacy can help children with autism and other unique learning needs transition into the new school year with greater confidence. Timestamps: (00:00) Back to school updates! (01:45) H.I.V.E. Update (03:35) New tech thanks to the William G. and Marie Selby Foundation (05:00) Back to school tips (08:30) Tips from our teachers (10:00) Partnership with New York Life Foundation (12:00) Tips from our Occupational Therapists (14:30) Advice from parents (17:00) Loryn’s advice (23:50) Thank you everyone for the tips! (25:20) Send me requests for future episodes!
July 1 · 40 min
The Experience of Growing Up With a Neurodivergent Sibling
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Sean Peabody to talk about the experience of growing up with a neurodivergent sibling. Sean shares how his relationship with his brother Kevin has changed over the years, from childhood memories built around creativity and shared interests to a recent trip to Japan that showed just how much Kevin has grown in confidence, flexibility, and independence. Loryn also reflects on life with her brother Scottie and the humor, patience, discernment, and love that shape the sibling experience. Together, they explore what siblings learn, what they worry about, and why it matters to keep seeing the person beyond the diagnosis. Timestamps: (00:00) Summer camp updates and school updates (03:30) Introducing Sean Peabody, Kevin’s brother (05:50) Watching your sibling grow and develop (08:00) Earliest memories with Kevin and Scottie (12:15) Kevin and Sean’s trip to Japan (18:05) Getting past what other people think (20:30) Challenges growing up (26:45) How has your relationship changed? (31:45) What will the future look like with your sibling? (38:00) What is your advice to other siblings?
June 1 · 50 min
How Magic Helps Neurodiverse Learners Build Confidence and Connection
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, Loryn Carpenter welcomes Dr. Kevin Spencer, a magician, educator, researcher, and arts integration expert, to explore how magic can support learning, connection, and confidence for neurodiverse learners and other special populations. Dr. Spencer shares how magic moved beyond entertainment in his work and became a powerful tool for building fine motor skills, working memory, social interaction, self-concept, and emotional engagement. From classrooms and therapy settings to families at home, this conversation offers a fresh look at how wonder, creativity, and the arts can help children feel capable, connected, and seen. Relevant links: kevinspencerlive.com hocusfocuseducation.com magictherapy.com Timestamps: (00:00) School updates and introducing Dr. Kevin Spencer (04:40) When did you realize that magic could be integrated beyond the stage? (08:30) What happens in the brain when people are engaged in a magic trick? (14:00) What are people’s favorite tricks? (17:00) What makes magic universal? (23:00) What trends are you noticing in education? (29:00) The arts are not a reward you give kids, its how kids learn (36:30) How do you respond to naysayers? (41:00) Advice to parents and educators (46:40) Learn more about Dr. Kevin Spencer
May 1 · 41 min
Suddenly Brave Together How Jessica Patay Is Supporting Caregiving Moms Everywhere
In this episode, Loryn sits down with Jessica Patay, founder of We Are Brave Together, to talk about what caregiving really looks like behind the scenes. Jessica shares how raising her son with a rare genetic disorder and autism led her to create a community for moms who often feel isolated, overwhelmed, and unseen. They talk about her new book Suddenly Brave Together, the reality of caregiver burnout, and the kind of support families actually need but rarely receive. It is an honest, emotional conversation about grief, resilience, and what it means to find people who truly get it. https://www.wearebravetogether.org/ Timestamps: (00:00) School updates (04:10) Introducing Jessica Patay of We Are Brave Together, Author of Suddenly Brave Together (09:55) Hearing other stories (12:35) Grief (15:00) The sibling experience (17:30) Building a community of mothers (19:00) What does it feel like to find a community of mothers? (20:00) Caregiver burnout (22:40) Reframing the need for self care (27:00) What does the world get wrong about this? (29:00) What have you learned from your son Ryan? (33:40) Book release: Suddenly Brave Together (35:45) Special moments with Ryan (40:10) Best ways to connect with Jessica Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
April 1 · 46 min
Preparing Financially for the Future with a Neurodivergent Child with Michael Pereira
Planning for the future can feel overwhelming for families raising neurodivergent children, but having the right financial foundation can make a meaningful difference. In this special Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month episode, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage and a financial planner who specializes in helping special needs families prepare for the future. They discuss practical financial planning topics including income protection, special needs trusts, insurance strategies, and the importance of building a strong network of professionals who understand the unique needs of neurodivergent individuals. Michael also shares insights from both his professional work and his personal experience as a parent, offering guidance for families who may feel uncertain about where to start and how to move from anxiety to clarity while building long term financial stability for their child. Michael’s Website: https://theautismvoyage.com/ Letter of Intent: https://theautismvoyage.com/letter-of-intent/ Timestamps: (00:00) School updates, Happy Autism Acceptance Month! (02:16) Introducing Michael Pereira, Founder of Autism Voyage (05:00) The diagnosis process (08:40) Applying information from others (10:00) What financial conversations should families be having when they have a special needs child? (13:00) 3 primary insurance solutions for families (17:00) What is a Special Needs Trust? (19:00) What forms, records and paperwork should families have ready? (23:00) Create a circle of support (30:15) Common mistakes - “Do it yourself” approach (32:00) Success stories (36:20) Red flags (40:15) Advice to families
March 2 · 41 min
How Step Up for Students Scholarships Are Opening Doors for Families
What if paying for tuition, therapy, and educational support did not have to feel overwhelming? In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, Loryn Carpenter sits down with Kristin O’Brien from Step Up For Students to break down what Florida families need to know about scholarship opportunities. They talk through eligibility, how the Family Empowerment Scholarship works, what qualifies as a diagnosis, and how funding can be used for tuition, ABA therapy, OT, speech services, tutoring, curriculum, and more. They also cover recent changes that expanded access and removed income barriers. If you are navigating a new diagnosis, feeling unsure about your options, or wondering if your family qualifies, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and practical next steps. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Kristin O’Brien, Step Up for Students, plus school updates (02:20) About Step Up for Students (04:30) How Step Up for Students got started and the evolution (11:40) What options can families apply for? (14:00) Biggest misconceptions (15:25) What can the scholarships be used for? (17:40) Demand for the scholarships (18:45) Advice for families (21:00) When can you begin to apply for scholarships? (24:35) EMA explanation and advice (27:55) Federal Scholarships Tax Program Updates (32:10) Success stories (36:20) Final message
February 2 · 32 min
Dating on the Spectrum: How Neurodivergent Adults Can Navigate Love and Connection
In this Valentine’s Day themed episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with vocational coordinator Ariana McDaniels for an honest, compassionate conversation about dating, relationships, and connection for neurodivergent adults. From navigating attraction, consent, and masking to understanding rejection sensitivity, online safety, and the role caregivers play, this episode offers practical insight and reassurance for families. Together, they unpack how love can look different but no less meaningful on the spectrum, and why dignity, safety, and open communication matter most when supporting healthy relationships. Timestamps: 00:01 – Valentine’s episode intro and why dating on the spectrum matters 03:26 – What love, attraction, and connection can look like for neurodivergent adults 05:48 – Infantilization and society’s discomfort with neurodivergent relationships 07:08 – Puberty, body changes, and the importance of open caregiver dialogue 11:05 – Masking, boundaries, and unmasking in romantic relationships 15:31 – Teaching consent clearly and safely for neurodivergent individuals 22:46 – Rejection sensitivity, breakups, and building emotional resilience
January 1 · 43 min
Redefining Potential: How Adventure For All Empowers Kids with Disabilities
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Chase Pettey, founder of the nonprofit Adventure For All. Chase shares the inspiring journey of building an organization that empowers individuals with exceptionalities through outdoor challenges like biking, hiking, and nature-based growth. From redefining human potential to sparking transformation in both kids and parents, this episode is full of powerful insights and stories that will resonate with caregivers, educators, and advocates alike. Tune in to hear how Adventure For All is helping families push past limits and discover what’s truly possible. Adventure for All Website: https://www.adventureforall.org/ Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Chase Pettey, Founder/CEO of Adventure for All, plus school updates (02:45) The story of Adventure for All (10:30) The training process and the power of positive reinforcement (13:00) Celebrating every success (14:30) Thought process of Adventure for All programs (22:10) Your child is capable of much more (28:35) Success stories and what’s coming in 2026 (35:50) Chase’s background (40:41) Learn more about Adventure for All Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Nov 24, 2025 · 35 min
How to Help Your Neurodivergent Child Thrive During the Holidays
In this special holiday edition of Helping Families Go Beyond the Podcast, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Dr. Valerie Roth and Dawn Wisniewski to share practical, compassionate strategies for families with neurodivergent learners navigating the busy holiday season. From prepping relatives for sensory-friendly gatherings to handling unsolicited comments with grace, this episode is packed with actionable advice on creating inclusive, joyful celebrations. Whether you're traveling, hosting, or just trying to keep things calm, you'll find thoughtful tips on visual schedules, sensory kits, and self-care for caregivers. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Dr. Valarie Roth & Dawn Wisniewski, School updates, thank you Lakewood Ranch Community Foundation (03:25) How can we prepare students for travel and meeting extended family? (08:30) Software, technology, or strategies that might help (14:50) Sensory friendly environments for holidays (20:30) Dealing with uninformed comments (23:30) Dealing with burnout of the holidays (29:30) Final tips and toolkit Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Nov 3, 2025 · 23 min
From Pro Athlete to Advocate: Cade Hagan’s Mission for Sarasota Unified Sports
In this heartwarming episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with professional soccer player and community leader Cade Hagan to explore his latest initiative, Sarasota Unified Sports, an adaptive sports clinic designed for individuals with exceptionalities. Cade shares the story behind his passion project, the challenges of launching it, and the incredible response from the local community. Tune in to learn how inclusive sports build confidence, connection, and resilience, not just for participants, but for families too. If you're seeking ways to help your child thrive through movement and socialization, this episode is for you. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Cade Hagan, Founder, Sarasota Unified Sports and Professional Soccer Player + School Updates (03:45) What inspired you to start Sarasota Unified Sports? (05:00) Benefits of adaptive sports clinics (06:15) Adapting activities to make them more accessible (07:45) What sports do you focus on in the clinics? (08:45) Using sports to teach “real world” skills (10:10) Challenges during the creation phase (11:40) Success moments that stick out (14:30) How this benefits the rest of the family (16:00) Collaborating (17:45) Who are your clinics open to? (20:10) How can people get involved? (20:50) Advice for families Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Oct 1, 2025 · 39 min
Understanding Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluations for Autism with Dr. Kerri Duncan
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter welcomes Dr. Kerri Duncan, BCBA, with nearly 40 years of experience in special education, ABA therapy, and parent advocacy. Dr. Duncan explains the Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation (CDE), the first crucial step in obtaining an autism diagnosis and accessing therapies. She shares what families should expect from the process, key signs to watch for, and how evaluations can guide access to ABA, speech, and occupational therapy. The conversation also highlights recent challenges with insurance and Medicaid, along with practical advice to help families feel informed and empowered. Hart 4 Autism Website: https://www.hart4autism.com/ Phone: 239-512-0777 Email: info.hart4autism@gmail.com Timestamps: (00:00) School Updates (01:55) Introducing Kerri Duncan, BCBA, CEO of Hart for Autism (03:20) What is a CDE? (06:30) What is the difference between a CDE and a medical diagnosis? (09:10) What therapies are available once a diagnosis has been made? (10:10) Is this limited by age? (13:00) How can a CDE guide the broader support a child might need? (14:15) What should parents look out for in an evaluator? (16:45) Signs that might prompt a parent to request a CDE (20:30) Changes in how the evaluations are being used (25:20) Recent Medicaid changes (30:30) Learn more about Hart 4 Autism (33:50) Requirements states outside of Florida (35:15) Advice for families Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Sep 2, 2025 · 25 min
Autism Is a Gift: Jack Mills’ Journey with Beyond the Spectrum
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Loryn Carpenter sits down with Jack Mills, a graduating senior with the Peabody Academy, to share his story, perspectives, and plans for the future. Jack opens up about his experiences growing up with autism, the teachers and friends who’ve supported him, and the unique talents that shape the way he sees the world. From his favorite classes and community trips to his dreams of becoming a NASCAR driver, lawyer, cruise ship captain, or YouTuber, Jack’s journey is full of determination and self-discovery. His message is clear: autism isn’t a disease, it’s a gift. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that will inspire families, educators, and anyone who believes in the power of understanding and inclusion. Timestamps: (00:00) School Updates and introducing Jack Mills, Peabody Academy Senior (03:30) Favorite activities with Peabody School and what he’s learned (04:40) Jack’s unique talents and difficulties (06:19) Who has helped Jack feel understood and confident in the classroom (08:10) What do you wish people knew about Autism? (12:00) What does “working hard” mean to Jack? (13:00) What Jack is looking forward this school year (13:50) Graduating and career plans (15:15) Advice for students starting the school year (16:10) Jack’s history of schooling (18:20) Favorite community outings (20:00) How Jack feels when a schedule changes (20:45) Traveling (23:00) Jack’s last thoughts about Beyond the Spectrum Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Aug 1, 2025 · 52 min
How Chris Angilella found his calling and created Chris and the Able Universe
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, we talk with Chris Angilella from Chris and the Able Universe. Chris has autism and Asperger's and has developed his skills to write books, create illustrations, and characters. Chris is the proud author of seven books with several more in the making. Throughout this episode, we discuss Chris’ journey to this point, his interests growing up and how they influence his characters, and what Chris is working on now. Chris shares his interests in animals, specifically from South America, his participation in comic cons, and his continued pursuit of advancing his illustration skills. We also discuss his superpowers, including creating characters and being able to tell you what day of the week you were born on if you give him your birthday. This is an inspiring story for any family member who has somebody with a special ability. Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Chris Angilella of Chris and the Able Universe & School Updates (03:50) About Chris’ characters from the Able Universe (07:00) Chris’ character inspiration and illustrations (10:10) Working at Winn Dixie and how he found the job through Hope Services (11:15) Chris’ Strengths and superpowers (12:45) What do you wish people understood about Aspergers? (17:00) Artists who inspire you (19:10) Advice for people who have Autism and their family (23:50) What can schools or communities understand about working with people with Autism? (29:00) Learning about animals and South American Culture and how it inspires his books (31:30) Writing new books and going to Comic Cons (33:30) Touch a Truck Event (34:45) Journey to get to where Chris is now (38:10) How can people get in contact with you? (43:45) Bear and the Big Blue House and having things “click” (47:00) Sponsorship Opportunities for Chris and the Able Universe (50:45) Wanting to visit the Nashville Zoo Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Jul 1, 2025 · 31 min
Emergency Preparedness for Neurodivergent Children: Tips for Families and Schools
In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, host Lauren Carpenter speaks with Joshua Yirkovsky, 21-year Navy veteran and founder of Angel Force Foundation, about how families and schools can better prepare for emergencies involving neurodivergent children. From practical safety tools like wearable GPS devices and visual cues to individualized safety plans (ISPs) and modified emergency drills, Joshua shares expert strategies for reducing elopement risks and building collaborative, trauma-informed communities. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help you create a safer, more responsive environment for children with developmental or sensory needs. Tune in to learn how you can take proactive steps to protect the ones you love. Angel Force Foundation Website: https://angelforcefoundation.org/ Streetlight Angels Podcast: https://www.angelfp.com/streetlight-angels-podcast Timestamps: (00:00) School updates and introducing our guest, Joshua Yirkovsky Angel Force Foundation (04:20) What is Angel Force Foundation? (06:30) How has your experience in the military influenced the programs at Angel Force Foundation? (08:00) What accommodations can schools make for students with additional needs? (12:05) Emergencies at home and developing an emergency plan (14:30) ISP - Individual safety plan (15:40) Technology and tools (19:25) Advice for students prone to elopement (22:40) How can you design your environment to prevent elopement (26:10) Creating a village of shared safety (28:00) Success stories (29:45) Learn more about Angel Force Foundation Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Jun 2, 2025 · 43 min
Preparing for Takeoff: Autism-Friendly Travel Tips for Families
Planning a family trip with a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, we talk with Alan Day, co-founder of Autism Double Checked, about how families can prepare for travel with autistic children, what service providers need to understand about sensory processing and individual needs, and why patience and problem-solving are key. From real-life travel tips to compassionate advice for parents and professionals, this conversation offers practical tools and hope for making travel more accessible and enjoyable. Tune in to feel more confident and supported on your next adventure. TSA Cares Number: 855-787-2227, Option 2 Autism Double Checked Website Timestamps: (00:00) School Updates (02:30) Introducing Alan Day, Co-Founder and CEO of Autism Double Checked (03:45) The start of Autism Double Checked (05:45) How did your special needs parent experience influence this decision? (07:50) The power of the Autism Flies Program (12:30) TSA Cares (16:20) Where to sit on the plane - Tips (18:45) Advice for working through the airport (21:50) Autism Stays Program - How to stay at a hotel (27:30) Autism Passport Program (31:30) Trends towards neurodivergent children travel (38:45) How can families advocate in the meantime? (40:15) Messages for parents preparing for travel Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
May 1, 2025 · 25 min
Supporting Neurodiverse Students Through Gamified Learning and AI
Discover how gamification, emotional literacy, and AI are transforming education for neurodiverse learners in this insightful episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Educator Ariana McDaniels shares real-life classroom experiences and expert tips on using technology safely and effectively to support students with autism and other neurodiverse needs. Learn how tools like AI can boost engagement, build community, and empower students to communicate and thrive—both in school and beyond. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator looking for practical strategies and inspiring stories, this episode is a must-listen. Timestamps: (00:00) School updates and Summer Literacy Camp (02:15) Introducing Ariana McDaniels from our Advanced Learning Center (04:30) Ariana’s research at Georgia Tech (05:40) Helping students navigate emotions (06:45) Applying her research to her classroom (07:50) Using AI in the classroom (10:35) AI tools (11:50) How will AI change special education? (12:30) How families can use AI at home (13:20) Using gamification to help students and eye tracking software (14:50) Research with Horizons (17:00) Success stories (18:00) AI safety (22:00) Final thoughts (23:25) Adult programs
Apr 1, 2025 · 40 min
Supporting Families on the Autism Journey: Key Insights with Dr. Kerri Duncan
Discover how Hart 4 Autism is making a difference in the lives of families seeking autism assessments and support. In this insightful episode of Helping Families Go Beyond, we sit down with Dr. Kerri Duncan, who has conducted hundreds of evaluations, helping parents navigate the journey with clarity and confidence. Learn about the ADOS assessment process, why early diagnosis matters, and how families can access the right resources—plus, debunk common myths about autism diagnoses. If you’re a parent, educator, or advocate looking for trusted guidance, this episode is a must-listen! Visit BeyondTheSpectrum.org for more resources. Visit Hart 4 Autism’s website: www.hart4autism.com Kerri's email: hart4autism2017@gmail.com Timestamps: (00:00) Introducing Dr. Kerri Duncan Founder of Hart 4 Autism & School updates (02:15) Starting Hart 4 Autism (05:40) Advice for adults who are seeking a diagnosis (09:40) What is the ADOS assessment process? (13:40) Advice for families searching for an ABA Therapy provider (16:30) Benefits of parent training (18:00) How can we be supportive of families who recently get the diagnosis? (22:30) How do you address the misunderstanding that Autism needs to be “fixed”? (25:00) Real-life story - Making friends and living independently (29:05) Advice for someone pursuing this career? (32:55) How can people reach out to you? (36:25) Final advice Join us every month for a new episode of Helping Families Go Beyond. Visit beyondthespectrum.org for more information.
Mar 3, 2025 · 33 min
Beyond the Gym: Making Fitness Inclusive for Everyone with Autism Fitness’ Eric Chessen
Discover how Autism Fitness is transforming adaptive fitness training with expert Eric Chessen. In this episode, we explore the importance of scalable exercise modifications, self-regulation strategies, and creating sensory-friendly environments for neurodivergent athletes. Eric shares insights on overcoming coaching challenges, building consistency in home-based fitness, and fostering inclusivity in gyms. Plus, hear an inspiring success story that highlights the power of structured, adaptable workouts. Whether you're a coach, educator, parent, or self-advocate, this conversation is packed with actionable tips for making fitness accessible to all. Eric Chessen is the Founder of Autism Fitness. With backgrounds in exercise and behavior sciences, Eric has spent over two decades developing effective, meaningful fitness programs for the autism and neurodivergent population. He is the creator of the PAC Profile Method and Autism Fitness Certification with over 500 Certified Pros worldwide. He is a TEDx presenter and consults with organizations and schools around the world seeking to prioritize and optimize their programs. Eric resides in Charlotte, NC with his wife, two rescue pitts, and egregiously problematic cat. He is an avid lifter and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu grappler. Reach Eric at: Instagram: @TheAutism Fitness YouTube: The Autism Fitness Website: AutismFitness.com Timestamps: (00:00) School Updates (01:15) Introducing Eric Chessen, Founder of Autism Fitness (02:50) What does it mean to be Autism Fitness Certified? (04:10) Balancing Accessibility and Curriculum (05:40) Misconceptions about Autism and fitness (09:10) How have you seen fitness benefit people? (13:00) How do you adapt an exercise routine for different individuals? (17:10) What modifications can be made to adapt to individuals? (23:00) What can parents do at home? (26:20) Favorite success stories (29:20) Advice to someone wanting to start their fitness journey (31:45) How to reach Eric

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