What's Your Experience with Autism?

Autism Resources Kawartha

What's Your Experience with Autism? is a series of unscripted conversations with local autistic people - and the people who love them - right here in Kawartha Lakes. Hosted by Autism Resources Kawartha co-founder, Matt Geraghty, this podcast is all about sharing real-life experiences and normalizing the autistic experience. Tune in and listen to real, honest, judgment-free conversations between the father of an autistic kid and his guests about what life with autism is really like: the joys, the challenges, the funny moments, the hard days, and everything in between. Whether you're autistic yourself, or a parent, caregiver, sibling, or friend to someone who is, this podcast is for you.

  1. 1d ago

    Sarah | Episode 15 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

    This episode explores the personal and professional experiences of Sarah with autism, discussing diagnosis, support strategies, and the importance of listening and tailored education environments. Thank you to our sponsors: Cardinal Home Services and Kawartha Art Gallery. Key Topics - Autism diagnosis and support - Impact of sensory spaces in schools - Personal experiences of raising an autistic daughter - Educational strategies for neurodivergent students - Importance of listening and tailored support Chapters 00:00 The Comfort of Crocs and Personal Health Experiences 03:14 Navigating Autism: Personal and Professional Insights 05:49 Understanding 22Q Deletion Syndrome and Autism 08:58 The Intersection of Autism and Other Diagnoses 12:03 Challenges in School: A Parent's Perspective 15:11 Listening to Our Children: A Shift in Parenting 17:58 Creating Safe Learning Environments 21:05 The Role of Educators in Supporting Neurodivergent Students 23:57 The Benefits of Independent Schools for Special Needs Education 30:28 Challenges in Public Education for Diverse Needs 31:48 Exploring Alternative Education Options 34:19 Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment 40:43 Personal Growth Through Parenting an Autistic Child 48:19 Insights Gained as an Educator from Parenting 50:54 The Need for Social Skills Development 55:59 Advocating for Inclusive Experiences 57:34 The Importance of Listening and Understanding Keywords #autism #education #supportstrategies #sensoryspaces #personalizedlearning #autismdiagnosis #neurodivergentsupport #inclusiveeducation #mentalhealth #specialneeds Support the show

    Sarah | Episode 15 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

  2. Sep 22

    Amber | Episode 14 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Amber shares her journey navigating her daughter's ADHD diagnosis, sleep challenges, school refusal, and the importance of listening and supporting neurodiverse children. Discover practical insights and heartfelt reflections on parenting and advocacy. Thank you to our sponsors: Cardinal Home Services and Kawartha Art Gallery. Key Topics - ADHD and autism diagnosis process - Impact of COVID on neurodiverse children - Sleep routines and challenges - School refusal and transition issues - The importance of listening and emotional support - Parent advocacy and navigating educational systems - Hobbies and strengths of neurodiverse children - Guilt and self-reflection in parenting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the parent's journey with ADHD and autism 02:12 Impact of COVID on routine and emotional health 04:06 Diagnosis timeline and initial challenges 06:00 Sleep routines and changes over time 08:52 Listening to children and adjusting parenting styles 12:12 Handling meltdowns and emotional regulation 16:00 School refusal and transition struggles 20:13 Advocacy and navigating educational support 24:58 Celebrating strengths and hobbies of neurodiverse children 29:47 Reflections on parenting, guilt, and hope Keywords #ADHD #autism #neurodiversity #parenting #schoolrefusal #sleepchallenges #mentalhealth #advocacy #familysupport Support the show

    Amber | Episode 14 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

  3. Sep 15

    Erin | Episode 13 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Erin and Matt explore the role of occupational therapy in supporting children with autism, the importance of understanding neurodiversity, and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals in educational and social settings. Thank you to our sponsors: Cardinal Home Services and Kawartha Art Gallery. Key Topics - The role of occupational therapy in supporting children with autism - The importance of neurodiversity and individual differences - Strategies for supporting kids in school and social environments - The controversy and misconceptions around ABA therapy - Community resources and advocacy for neurodivergent individuals Takeaways - Every child on the spectrum is unique and requires personalized support. - Understanding and accepting neurodiversity enhances community and educational outcomes. - Supporting interests and passions builds trust and connection with neurodivergent individuals. - Early intervention and tailored support improve long-term success. - Labels like autism can facilitate access to resources and understanding. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to occupational therapy and autism support 00:10 The role of OT in different settings 00:37 Supporting success and independence in school 01:07 Building rapport through shared interests 01:31 The importance of understanding individual passions 01:56 Supporting emotional regulation and sensory needs 02:23 The impact of screen time and digital habits 02:51 Early intervention and tiered support models 03:19 Community resources and accessing services 03:29 The controversy around ABA therapy 03:36 Labels and their role in support and understanding 03:37 Advocacy and supporting neurodivergent communities #autism #occupational therapy #neurodiversity #education #supportstrategies #mentalhealth #sensoryprocessing #abatherapy #advocacy #communityresources Support the show

    Erin | Episode 13 | What's Your Experience With Autism Podcast by Autism Resources Kawartha

  4. 12/09/2025

    Season 1 Wrapped | Autism Resources Kawartha

    This marks the end of Season 1 of the Autism Resources Kawartha Podcast - and what a season it’s been. If you or someone you know may be interested in being a guest on the podcast, or you want to sponsor the podcast, let us know, so they can be included in Season 2. 👉 Subscribe and stay with us - Season 2 is coming soon. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services  CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts  SUBSCRIBE: YouTube Support the show

    Season 1 Wrapped | Autism Resources Kawartha

  5. 12/02/2025

    John | Episode 12 | Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Matt sits down with John from Kawartha Conservation. John reflects on how awareness of autism has changed over the decades and shares personal stories about parenting, empathy, and supporting loved ones with different needs. We talk about why sensory-friendly spaces matter, especially at busy events, and how we worked with Kawartha Conservation to bring a Sensory Safe Space to this year’s Christmas at Ken Reid. We also explore the healing side of nature: forest therapy, mindful time outdoors, and how conservation areas can offer comfort and calm to autistic people and families. Plus, John gives a full behind-the-scenes look at Christmas at Ken Reid - from horses and wagon rides to vendors, crafts, the Ontario Science Centre, live music, and everything families can enjoy on Saturday, December 6th from 10 AM - 4 PM. Learn more at: www.kawarthaconservation.com/news THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts  SUBSCRIBE: YouTube CHAPTERS 01:16 — John’s Early Experience with Autism 03:17 — Learning from Coworkers & Families 04:40 — When Autism Became Familiar 06:15 — Recognizing Autism in Hindsight 07:46 — The “White Car Syndrome” & Autism Everywhere 09:30 — Advocacy, Trick-or-Treat Bags & Public Reactions 10:11 — Parenting, Emotions & New Challenges 11:12 — John Shares About His Daughter 12:37 — Kindness, Intentions & Supporting Loved Ones 13:25 — Introducing Christmas at Ken Reid 14:15 — Why Sensory Spaces Matter 15:03 — Making Events Truly Inclusive 17:25 — Matt’s Experiences at Events with His Son 18:55 — Parking, Shuttles & Event Layout 19:40 — What to Expect This Year 21:22 — Behind the Scenes: Working with ARK 23:47 — Nature, Mental Health & Forest Therapy 26:08 — Community Partnerships & Mental Health 28:31 — Favourite Conservation Areas 30:48 — Sensory Overload & Heightened Senses 32:20 — Events, Volunteers & Community Togetherness 33:45 — A Stress-Free Holiday Experience 35:42 — John’s One Thing to Know About Autism Support the show

    John | Episode 12 | Autism Resources Kawartha

  6. 11/25/2025

    Ashley | Episode 11 | Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Matt sits down with Ashley, a parent and advocate whose life has been deeply shaped by autism - from growing up with her aunt Sarah Jane, to parenting her recently diagnosed son. Ashley opens up about her early experiences living with a family member with autism, how her mother’s compassion taught her patience and advocacy, and how those lessons came full circle as she navigated her own son’s diagnosis. The conversation dives into the emotional journey of parenting a neurodivergent child - from recognizing early signs and advocating through the healthcare system, to balancing school struggles, meltdowns, and the power of understanding over judgment. Ashley also shares her own experiences with ADHD and dyslexia, offering an honest look at how neurodiversity runs through generations and shapes the way she connects with her kids. Now parenting in a blended family with her partner, whose daughter is also autistic, Ashley reflects on the beauty and chaos of raising four children in a household that celebrates differences while learning every day what support truly means. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts SUBSCRIBE: YouTube CHAPTERS 02:37 Personal Experiences with Autism 05:48 Understanding Autism Diagnoses 08:34 The Impact of Diagnosis on Family Dynamics 11:54 Parenting Neurodiverse Children 14:35 Emotional Challenges and Growth 17:46 The Journey to Diagnosis 20:22 Reflections on Parenting and Self-Discovery 28:42 Navigating School Transitions for Children with Autism 32:45 Understanding Dyslexia and Its Impact 38:44 Coping Mechanisms for ADHD and Dyslexia 48:20 Building Community and Understanding in Autism 54:59 The Spectrum of Autism: Embracing Individual Differences Support the show

    Ashley | Episode 11 | Autism Resources Kawartha

  7. 11/18/2025

    Heather | Episode 10 | Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Matt sits down with Heather, a retired teacher and owner of R&J Stables. Heather shares her incredible journey from education to equine-assisted therapy, exploring how her lifelong love of horses has evolved into a deeply meaningful program that supports individuals with autism. Heather discusses how her background in special education and her personal connection to disability through her late aunt shaped her approach to inclusion and understanding. She explains the unique bond between people and horses - how these intuitive animals help riders self-regulate, build confidence, and experience calm. She also speaks about the story behind Sammy’s Place, the therapeutic riding program named in honour of a young rider who inspired Heather’s mission. Together, they reflect on the healing power of animals, the importance of individualized learning, and the role of compassion and autonomy in both teaching and parenting. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts SUBSCRIBE: YouTube CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Therapeutic Riding and Autism 00:42 Therapeutic Riding Programs: A New Approach Support the show

    Heather | Episode 10 | Autism Resources Kawartha

  8. 11/11/2025

    Jennifer | Episode 9 | Autism Resources Kawartha

    In this episode, Matt sits down with Jennifer - a devoted aunt to an autistic niece - to explore what it means to love, support, and understand from the outside looking in. Jenn shares the story of her niece’s autism, ADHD, and Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) diagnoses, and how those discoveries reshaped not just her niece’s world, but the whole family’s approach to connection and care. She opens up about learning to let go of “shoulds,” embracing radical acceptance, and finding patience in moments that challenge every instinct to “fix.” From rethinking school and routines to redefining what affection looks like, Jenn reminds us that supporting an autistic loved one often means slowing down, listening, and letting them lead the way. Her honesty, humour, and deep empathy make this episode a powerful reminder that love doesn’t always mean doing more - sometimes it means doing less, and simply being there. THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR: Cardinal Home Services CHECK OUT: the Kawartha Gallery NEW EPISODES: every Tuesday FOLLOW US: Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts SUBSCRIBE: YouTube CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Autism and Personal Experiences 03:02 Understanding Autism Diagnoses and Profiles 05:50 Parenting Challenges with Neurodivergent Children 08:52 Navigating Expectations and Accommodations 12:03 Building Relationships with Neurodivergent Children 15:02 The Role of Patience and Understanding 17:54 Radical Acceptance in Parenting 20:55 The Impact of Schooling on Neurodivergent Children 24:01 Creating Opportunities for Engagement 26:51 The Importance of Communication and Debriefing 30:00 Final Thoughts on Autism Awareness and Support Support the show

    Jennifer | Episode 9 | Autism Resources Kawartha
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About

What's Your Experience with Autism? is a series of unscripted conversations with local autistic people - and the people who love them - right here in Kawartha Lakes. Hosted by Autism Resources Kawartha co-founder, Matt Geraghty, this podcast is all about sharing real-life experiences and normalizing the autistic experience. Tune in and listen to real, honest, judgment-free conversations between the father of an autistic kid and his guests about what life with autism is really like: the joys, the challenges, the funny moments, the hard days, and everything in between. Whether you're autistic yourself, or a parent, caregiver, sibling, or friend to someone who is, this podcast is for you.

Information

  • Creator
    Autism Resources Kawartha
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 What's Your Experience with Autism?
  • Show Website
    What's Your Experience with Autism?