The Dadvocating Podcast

Simcha Weinstein

Host Simcha Weinstein; Brooklynite, rabbi, author, clinician‑in‑training, family peer advocate, and proud “dadvocate” talks disability advocacy through a dad’s lens. Hear unvarnished, strength‑based conversations with advocates, parents, self‑advocates, systems leaders, policymakers, clinicians, changemakers, and the occasional disruptor about where we’ve been and where we still need to go. Come for the advocacy, stay for the dad jokes.

Episodes

  1. Making New York More Accessible: A Conversation with Self-Advocate Shamika Andrews

    10 MAR

    Making New York More Accessible: A Conversation with Self-Advocate Shamika Andrews

    In this episode, we sit down with self-advocate Shamika Andrews, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Self-Advocacy Association of New York State. Shamika shares how growing up in an inaccessible neighborhood helped shape her passion for disability rights and advocacy. She reflects on key moments that launched her advocacy journey, from challenging an inaccessible graduation stage to becoming involved with Miss Wheelchair New York and working directly with policymakers. We discuss the power of storytelling in advocacy, the importance of mental health supports in the disability community, and the principle of “nothing about us without us.” Shamika also offers advice to new self-advocates: value your voice, ask for help when needed, and remember that everyday advocacy matters. Follow Rabbi Simcha on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.jewishautismnetwork.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Shameka Andrews⁠ on Instagram Butterfly on Wheels by  Shameka Andrews

    59 min
  2. The Commissioner & The Dadvocates - Lived experience meets statewide leadership. A kitchen table conversation with OPWDD Commissioner Willow Baer - Episode 6

    16 JAN

    The Commissioner & The Dadvocates - Lived experience meets statewide leadership. A kitchen table conversation with OPWDD Commissioner Willow Baer - Episode 6

    What happens when lived experience meets statewide leadership? In this episode of Dadvocating, Simcha Weinstein and fellow dadvocate Steve Gonyea sit down with Willow Baer, Commissioner of the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, for a candid kitchen table conversation about dads, disability, and what families really need from systems. From what OPWDD actually oversees, to why father engagement matters, to how families can find their voice inside big systems, this episode is about showing up, being seen, and building real partnership. Commissioner Baer shares what drew her to this work, how New York is working to protect family stability, and what gives her hope when the work feels heavy. From services to self care, and even a surprise reveal at the end, this is a candid conversation you will want to stay for. Follow ⁠Steve Gonyea - ⁠Finding Common Ground⁠ ⁠⁠Rabbi Simcha on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠www.jewishautismnetwork.com⁠⁠⁠ www.opwdd.ny.gov

    29 min
  3. Fatherhood, Foster Care, and a Guy Named Steve Gonyea - The Dadvocating Podcast Episode 5

    02/12/2025

    Fatherhood, Foster Care, and a Guy Named Steve Gonyea - The Dadvocating Podcast Episode 5

    In this episode of the Dadvocating Podcast, host Simcha welcomes Steve Gonyea, a fellow state lead from the New York Alliance for Developmental Disabilities (Nyad). Steve shares his journey as a father and advocate, highlighting the challenges and joys of raising an autistic child, fostering children with disabilities, and navigating the complex systems of support services. Steve emphasizes the importance of fatherhood involvement in advocacy, discusses his experience creating a community hub for individuals with disabilities, and reflects on the impact of his work in grassroots advocacy. The conversation underscores the need for more father-focused conversations in the advocacy space and Steve's efforts to build a supportive community for all. Follow Steve Gonyea - ⁠Finding Common Ground ⁠Rabbi Simcha on Instagram ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠www.jewishautismnetwork.com⁠⁠ 00:00 Introduction to the Dadvocating Podcast 00:47 Meet Steve Gonyea: A Father and Advocate 01:14 Challenges in Foster Care and Advocacy 02:27 The Role of Fathers in Advocacy 04:27 Steve's Podcasting Journey 06:37 Steve's Advocacy and Foster Care Experience 13:49 Creating a Safe Space for Autistic Children 16:13 The Emotional Journey of Advocacy 22:15 The Importance of Dental Care in Foster Settings 24:48 Setting Up a Home Podcast Studio 26:51 Navigating Marriage and Foster Care Challenges 29:31 Self-Care Tips for Parents 34:39 Mentorship and Generational Healing 39:17 Building a Community of Dadvocates

    41 min
  4. The Art of Advocacy: Inclusive Casting in the Entertainment Industry with Robin Carus

    30/10/2025

    The Art of Advocacy: Inclusive Casting in the Entertainment Industry with Robin Carus

    A candid conversation with Robin Carus, legendary casting director whose career spans theater, film, and television. Robin shares her journey into casting, what drives her, and the gratitude she finds in discovering and nurturing authentic talent. We explore the groundbreaking New York City Accessibility Fund and its promise to reshape inclusivity across the entertainment industry. Robin discusses why lived experience matters in casting, and how authentic representation of disabled and neurodivergent artists enriches storytelling for everyone. With warmth and humor, she also reflects on advocating for siblings with developmental disabilities and wraps up with a hilarious Sacha Baron Cohen/Borat story that’s guaranteed to leave you laughing. Follow Robin Carus on Instagram ⁠Rabbi Simcha on Instagram ⁠ ⁠www.jewishautismnetwork.com⁠ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Advocating Podcast 00:25 Meet Robin Caras: Casting Director and Advocate 01:36 Robin's Journey into Casting 03:15 The Impact of the NYC Accessibility Fund 07:58 Creating Inclusive Casting Environments 11:38 Authentic Representation in Media 21:27 The Role of Epic Players in Neurodiverse Theater 23:09 Personal Reflections: Growing Up with a Sibling with Disabilities 24:18 A Brother's Journey and Legal Victory 26:18 Advocacy and Quality of Life 27:56 Personal Reflections on Advocacy 29:22 Heartwarming Caretaker Stories 30:39 The Importance of Seeing Beauty in Everyone 31:49 Fun and Lighthearted Questions 34:51 Hilarious Sasha Baron Cohen Encounter 41:22 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up

    42 min
  5. Superhero Therapy: Harnessing Pop Culture for Mental Wellness with Dr. Janina Scarlet

    10/10/2025

    Superhero Therapy: Harnessing Pop Culture for Mental Wellness with Dr. Janina Scarlet

    In this episode of the Dadvocating Podcast, the host explores the intersections of disability, neurodivergence, and mental wellness with Dr. Janina Scarlet, a clinical psychologist and creator of superhero therapy. Dr. Scarlet shares her personal journey as a first-generation immigrant from Ukraine, her struggles with radiation poisoning from Chernobyl, and how she overcame bullying by finding solace in X-Men's portrayal of trauma and resilience. The conversation delves into how superhero narratives can aid in understanding and addressing mental health issues, especially in individuals with trauma, anxiety, and depression. Dr. Scarlet highlights the power of storytelling in promoting post-traumatic growth and resiliency and provides practical advice for morning mental wellness routines. The episode also touches on the impact of social media on mental health and the benefits of superhero therapy, with Dr. Scarlet emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and community support in the healing process. 00:00 Introduction to the Dad Podcast 00:55 Exploring Disability, Neurodivergence, and Mental Wellness 01:48 Meet Dr. Janina Scarlet: Superhero Therapy 02:42 Dr. Scarlet's Origin Story 06:25 The Power of Narrative in Healing 16:58 The Intersection of Neurodivergence and Mental Wellness 27:44 Generational Trauma and Healing 43:40 Closing Thoughts and Final Words Follow Rabbi Simcha on Instagram www.jewishautismnetwork.com

    45 min
  6. Haley Moss: Stimming in the Student Union - Neurodivergent Voices on Campus

    02/09/2025

    Haley Moss: Stimming in the Student Union - Neurodivergent Voices on Campus

    This episode explores the challenges and strategies involved in back-to-school transitions for neurodivergent students. Guest Haley Moss, an attorney, author, artist, and advocate diagnosed with autism at age 3 shares her expertise and lived experience to offer valuable insight and guidance. Topics include the excitement and anxiety around school transitions, masking, identity, self-advocacy, and how schools and families can better support neurodivergent students. Haley’s perspective sheds light on what it means to navigate school as a neurodivergent learner and how we can create more inclusive, supportive environments. 00:00 Introduction to the Dad Vocating Podcast 00:41 Meet Haley Moss: Advocate and Author 01:44 Haley's Educational Journey 05:18 Navigating School as a Neurodivergent Student 09:12 The Start of Haley's Advocacy 13:30 Challenges of Middle School 19:56 Mental Health and Neurodiversity 22:39 College Life and Self-Advocacy 28:09 Advice for Academia 29:08 Understanding Law School Grading 29:48 Navigating Autism and Mental Health in Law School 30:34 Challenges with University Health Services 31:20 Disability Resources in Higher Education 32:16 Generational Differences in Mental Health Awareness 35:34 Dating Advice for Neurodivergent Students 38:39 Parental Guidance for Neurodivergent College Students 42:41 The Concept of Neurodiversity 46:45 Making Religious Spaces Inclusive 49:52 Final Thoughts and Reflections

    53 min
  7. Willie Mae Goodman: The Mother Who Took on New York State

    11/08/2025

    Willie Mae Goodman: The Mother Who Took on New York State

    In this debut episode of The Dadvocating Podcast, host Simcha Weinstein sits down with Mrs. Willie Mae Goodman to reflect on more than six decades of advocacy. Her journey began when her daughter Margaret, born with high support disabilities, was placed in the infamous Willowbrook State School. What she witnessed there, neglect, abuse, and injustice ignited a lifetime of action. Together with other parents, launched a landmark legal challenge that forever changed the face of disability rights and inclusion in New York State, and helped lay the foundation for today’s community based services and the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). Mrs. Goodman was recently honored by OPWDD with the inaugural Willie Mae Goodman Family Advocacy Award for her tireless work on behalf of Margaret and all New Yorkers with developmental disabilities. She is joined in this conversation by fellow advocate José Rivera, whose late brother Louis was also a Willowbrook resident. Together, they share history, heart, and a call to keep family voices at the center of the disability rights movement.

    44 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

Host Simcha Weinstein; Brooklynite, rabbi, author, clinician‑in‑training, family peer advocate, and proud “dadvocate” talks disability advocacy through a dad’s lens. Hear unvarnished, strength‑based conversations with advocates, parents, self‑advocates, systems leaders, policymakers, clinicians, changemakers, and the occasional disruptor about where we’ve been and where we still need to go. Come for the advocacy, stay for the dad jokes.

Information

  • Creator
    Simcha Weinstein
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Simcha Weinstein
  • Show Website
    The Dadvocating Podcast