Dad A.F.

Stephen DeLong
  • 5.0 (4)
  • PARENTING

This is "Dad A.F."(Autism Focused), the podcast & page where a real AF dad talks about the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to raising a child with autism. Hosted by a death-metal loving, dedicated daddy, this show is here to thrash the stigmas surrounding fatherhood in the special needs community. You won’t find experts here—just dads, living & learning, day in and out. Through dialogues with guests from all walks of life, we'll dive into the often unspoken struggles of being a father, offering a space where emotions are both normalized and celebrated. From the tough days to the moments of joy, we’ll explore the challenges, the triumphs, and the importance of mental health and vulnerability for dads.  Whether you’re navigating the complexities of autism, physical disabilities, or simply trying to be a better dad, "Dad A.F." is here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. So grab a seat, turn up the volume to 11, and join the conversation—it's time to talk about the hard shit, the real shit, and everything that makes us better dads.

Episodes

  1. FEB 1

    Casey Franco

    In the latest episode of the Dad AF podcast, host Stephen DeLong is joined by Casey Franco, who shares their remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience. From an early autism diagnosis to embracing their identity as a transgender individual, Casey’s story is a powerful testament to overcoming challenges and finding one's true self. Casey's journey began in elementary school, where they felt different from their peers. They described their early experiences as being marked by solitude, often preferring to express themselves through art rather than engaging in social interactions. "I was always involved with, I would always draw for example," Casey recalls, highlighting how art became a refuge. This early indication of their unique perspective on life set the stage for the challenges they would face later on. As Casey transitioned to middle school, their struggles became more pronounced. The pandemic in 2020 exacerbated these difficulties, with remote learning proving to be a significant obstacle. "I struggled to reach out, so my teachers didn't really know what was wrong," Casey explained. This lack of communication led to a spiral of anxiety and assignments piling up, ultimately causing them to nearly fail seventh grade. Casey’s experience resonates with many students who faced similar barriers during this tumultuous time. Finding Support: It wasn't until Casey's recent diagnosis of autism in August 2022 that they began to understand their experiences better. "I had been thinking about it since 2020," they shared, illustrating the internal journey they undertook before seeking help. With the support of their parents, Casey navigated the process of diagnosis, a pivotal moment that allowed them to embrace their identity. "My parents are very supportive... they do support me all the way," they affirmed, emphasizing the importance of having a support system. Casey’s high school years were marked by struggles, often feeling isolated and unsupported. They developed a coping mechanism focused solely on passing classes rather than excelling. "My only focus was just passing because even after doing remote online work in middle school, it still impacted me heavily throughout high school," Casey reflected. This sentiment echoes the experiences of many students who feel the pressure to perform without the necessary support. A New Chapter in College: In contrast, Casey's college experience has been transformative. They are now enrolled in an art program, where the structure and flexibility have allowed them to thrive. "I've actually really loved college. It is a lot more like doing things myself, but I think it's like a perfect balance of what is expected of me and how they lay it out versus what I have to do on my own," Casey explained. This newfound independence has enabled Casey to flourish in ways that high school never could. Conclusion: Casey Franco's journey is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Through challenges of autism, identity, and the impact of the pandemic, Casey has emerged stronger and more self-aware. Their experience highlights the critical importance of support systems, understanding, and finding environments where individuals can thrive. Key takeaways include the need for open communication, the significance of supportive relationships, and the value of understanding one’s own journey.

    1h 11m

  2. 12/30/2025

    Jamiel Owens

    In this heartfelt conversation, Stephen DeLong and Jameil Owens discuss the challenges and triumphs of fatherhood, particularly in the context of raising children on the autism spectrum. They explore the importance of communication, empathy, and connection, sharing personal stories that highlight the unique experiences of fathers navigating this journey. The discussion emphasizes the need for supportive communities, the breaking of stereotypes, and the transformative power of love and compassion in parenting. Through their insights, they aim to inspire other fathers to embrace their roles and advocate for their children.   Takeaways Fatherhood is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. Communication is key in understanding and connecting with children. Every child has their own timeline for development and milestones. Empathy and compassion are essential in parenting, especially for children with autism. Fathers play a crucial role in advocating for their children. Building supportive communities for dads can foster growth and understanding. Personal stories can inspire and connect us on a deeper level. It's important to break stereotypes surrounding autism and neurodiversity. Love and connection are more important than societal expectations. Self-discovery and growth are ongoing processes in fatherhood.

    1h 17m

  3. 12/15/2025

    A Conversation With Makayla Brant

    In this conversation, Makayla Brant shares her journey as the older sister of Eli, who was diagnosed with autism. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of growing up with a sibling on the spectrum, the importance of early intervention, and the role of family support in navigating autism. Makayla also highlights her work with the Eagles Autism Foundation, advocating for awareness and creating inclusive spaces for children with autism. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding, patience, and emotional support for families affected by autism. They also discuss the impact of the Eagles Autism Foundation on their lives and the community. They share personal stories about navigating autism, the importance of community support, and the role of family and friends in fostering acceptance. The discussion also touches on the challenges of parental guilt, the significance of routine, and the experiences of working with children with disabilities. They emphasize the need for emotional support and advocacy, as well as the importance of creating inclusive environments for individuals with autism. The conversation concludes with a call to support the foundation's initiatives and the positive changes it brings to the lives of individuals and families Takeaways Makayla's journey began as an older sister to Eli, who was diagnosed with autism. Early intervention is crucial for children with autism to thrive. Makayla's mother played a significant role in advocating for Eli's needs. Public perception of autism can be challenging and often judgmental. Emotional support is vital for both the child and the family. Creating inclusive spaces for children with autism is essential. Makayla works with the Eagles Autism Foundation to raise awareness. Family dynamics change significantly when a child has special needs. Understanding and patience are key in navigating autism-related challenges. Advocacy for autism awareness can change societal perceptions. The Eagles Autism Foundation has been a significant support for families. Community involvement is crucial for acceptance and understanding. Navigating relationships can be challenging for families with autism. Family and friends play a vital role in support systems. Parental guilt is a common feeling among caregivers. Routine and familiarity help children with autism navigate daily life. Working with children with disabilities requires patience and understanding. Learning through experience is essential in advocacy work. Supportive environments can greatly impact children's experiences. Emotional support and advocacy are key for families dealing with autism.

    1h 8m

  4. 11/23/2025

    A Conversation With Victor Ykoruk

    In this engaging conversation, Stephen DeLong and Victor Ykoruk explore the unique challenges and experiences of being fathers to children on the autism spectrum. They discuss the importance of emotional support, the male perspective on parenting, and the impact of diagnosis on family life. The conversation highlights the need for grace under pressure, the significance of tailored approaches for each child, and the value of building a supportive community for families navigating autism. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they emphasize the importance of communication, understanding, and celebrating achievements in the journey of parenting autistic children. The male perspective on parenting autistic children is often overlooked. Dads play a crucial role in supporting their children emotionally. Diagnosis opens up access to essential therapies and support. Every child on the spectrum is unique, requiring tailored approaches. Emotional support is vital for both children and parents. Parenting autistic children involves navigating various challenges and expectations. Building a supportive community can greatly benefit families. Celebrating small achievements is important for motivation. Grace under pressure is essential in parenting. Communication and understanding are key to successful parenting.

    1h 13m

  5. 11/02/2025

    Intro To Dad A.F.

    In this conversation, Stephen DeLong shares his emotional journey as a parent navigating the diagnosis of autism for his son. He reflects on the initial hopes and expectations of parenthood, the challenges faced in communication, and the support systems that helped him and his family cope with the diagnosis. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding, emotional support, and proactive measures in addressing developmental challenges.   Takeaways The initial excitement of parenthood can be overshadowed by unexpected challenges. Understanding a child's needs early can lead to better outcomes. Access to quality healthcare and support is crucial for families. Emotional responses to a child's diagnosis can be complex and varied. Proactive measures can help children navigate their emotions and life better. Speech therapy can play a significant role in child development. The journey of understanding autism is unique for every family. Support systems are essential in coping with a child's diagnosis. Communication challenges can be a sign of deeper issues. Parenting requires adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.

    13 min

  6. 10/17/2025

    Bradley & Steve

    In this heartwarming conversation, Stephen DeLong introduces his son Bradley, sharing their playful interactions and insights into family life. They discuss Bradley's favorite foods, activities, and the excitement of a recent book fair, culminating in a series of jokes that highlight the joy of childhood and the bond between father and son.

    7 min
  • 6 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

This is "Dad A.F."(Autism Focused), the podcast & page where a real AF dad talks about the highs, lows, and everything in between when it comes to raising a child with autism. Hosted by a death-metal loving, dedicated daddy, this show is here to thrash the stigmas surrounding fatherhood in the special needs community. You won’t find experts here—just dads, living & learning, day in and out. Through dialogues with guests from all walks of life, we'll dive into the often unspoken struggles of being a father, offering a space where emotions are both normalized and celebrated. From the tough days to the moments of joy, we’ll explore the challenges, the triumphs, and the importance of mental health and vulnerability for dads.  Whether you’re navigating the complexities of autism, physical disabilities, or simply trying to be a better dad, "Dad A.F." is here to help you feel seen, heard, and supported. So grab a seat, turn up the volume to 11, and join the conversation—it's time to talk about the hard shit, the real shit, and everything that makes us better dads.

Information

  • Creator
    Stephen DeLong
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    6
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Dad A.F.