Autism Family Resource

Brian Keene
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Parenting
  • Biweekly

Raising a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone. The Autism Family Resource Podcast is designed for parents looking for practical autism resources, real-life parenting strategies, and meaningful support for families navigating autism and neurodiversity. Each episode shares actionable tools, daily routines, and honest insights from parents, therapists, and neurodivergent individuals who understand the journey firsthand. From sensory challenges and communication to behavior, emotional regulation, and everyday routines, this podcast provides clear, realistic autism parenting strategies you can actually use at home. I'm Brian Keene, a licensed pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. We provide neurodiversity-affirming, home-based and virtual therapy services for families in the Phoenix metro area. If you're searching for autism resources for parents, family support, and practical guidance, you're in the right place. Subscribe to stay connected and be the first to hear new episodes. For questions or support, reach out at info@pureheartstherapy.com or visit www.pureheartstherapy.com to learn more.

  1. 21h ago

    67 | Helping Therapy Skills Stick at Home | Nicole Dahl

    What happens during the other six days of the week when your child is not in therapy? In part two of Brian Keene's conversation with Nicole Dahl, VP of Marketing at Korro AI and parent of an autistic son, they explore one of the biggest challenges families face: carrying therapy goals into everyday life without making home feel like another therapy clinic. Nicole explains how Korro uses computer vision and game-based movement to turn therapist-selected goals into short, interactive home practice sessions. Children control characters through their own movements while practicing skills connected to areas such as coordination, fine motor development, dressing, regulation, and other everyday activities. Brian and Nicole also discuss the mental load parents carry, why home programs can be difficult to maintain, the importance of the "just right challenge," healthy boundaries around screen time, and how therapists can use information from home practice to better individualize future sessions. The goal is not for parents to become therapists. It is to create realistic ways for children to practice meaningful skills between sessions while keeping therapy engaging, manageable, and connected to everyday life. Topics Covered Why traditional therapy homework can be difficult for families to maintain How Korro turns therapy goals into interactive, movement-based games Using a phone or tablet camera to track movement without controllers Supporting fine motor, gross motor, regulation, and daily living skills Creating the "just right challenge" for each child How therapists can individualize home programs and review progress Using short practice sessions instead of long homework assignments Built-in screen-time boundaries and transitions Reducing caregiver pressure around therapy carryover Future directions discussed for Korro, including additional therapy applications Timestamps 00:28 Nicole Dahl's background and perspective as a parent 01:15 What is Korro and how does it work? 06:44 What the games look like and how they adapt 11:29 How families get access through their therapy provider 16:08 What home practice looks like for children and parents 21:16 Reducing caregiver burden and the future of Korro Memorable Quote "Korro makes it easy. It's one less thing I have to worry about." About the Guest Nicole Dahl is the VP of Marketing at Korro AI and the parent of an autistic son. Her perspective combines her professional work in children's healthcare technology with years of personal experience navigating occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, feeding support, social groups, school services, and home programs with her family. In this conversation, Nicole shares how those experiences shaped her interest in making therapy carryover easier and more engaging for children and caregivers. Resources Mentioned Korro AI A technology platform designed to support occupational therapy through interactive, movement-based experiences that can be used in the clinic and at home. Learn more about Korro AI About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist, Army veteran, founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming pediatric occupational, physical, and speech therapy, along with parent coaching and family support. The practice focuses on helping children build meaningful skills through play, connection, regulation, and participation in everyday life. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

  2. Oct 28

    66 | Autism Parenting: Small Changes That Make a Big Difference| Nicole Dahl

    When your child is struggling at school, having difficulty with transitions, or waiting months for therapy, it can feel like you are constantly searching for answers without a clear roadmap. In this episode, Brian Keene speaks with Nicole Dahl, the parent of a 19-year-old autistic son, about the real-life journey from early uncertainty and difficult school experiences toward greater understanding, advocacy, and hope. Nicole shares how her son's sensory needs were often misunderstood, including challenges with fluorescent lighting, classroom seating, transitions, and everyday routines. She also reflects on the difference it made when therapists explained the purpose behind play-based activities and helped the family use practical strategies at home. Together, Brian and Nicole discuss staying curious about behavior, asking better questions, supporting regulation, communicating with therapists and teachers, and recognizing progress that may be difficult to see in the middle of daily life. This conversation reminds parents that a diagnosis does not define a child's future and that small, thoughtful changes can make a meaningful difference. Topics Covered Navigating an autism diagnosis as a first-time parent Advocating for support within the school system How sensory differences can affect classroom participation Understanding the purpose behind play-based therapy Supporting transitions and everyday family routines Helping children recognize and communicate their needs Moving from a deficit mindset toward strengths and possibilities Recognizing progress that happens gradually Timestamps 00:00 Nicole's family and parenting journey 02:03 The path toward an autism diagnosis 04:55 School struggles and learning about IEP support 10:29 Sensory needs, classroom lighting, and seating 12:00 Therapy waitlists and understanding the purpose of therapy 17:14 Home-based therapy and supporting daily routines 19:56 Regulation, transitions, and emotional communication 26:29 Focusing on strengths, growth, and future possibilities Memorable Quote "You love your child more than anyone on this earth. There has never been a better advocate for your kiddo." About the Guest Nicole Dahl is the parent of an autistic son who recently graduated from high school and is preparing to attend college. Through years of navigating diagnosis, school challenges, therapy, sensory needs, and everyday family routines, Nicole has developed a deeply practical understanding of parent advocacy. She also serves as Vice President of Marketing at Coro, a company developing tools designed to help families support children's development and emotional well-being. Resources Mentioned Individualized Education Programs, or IEPs School-based occupational therapy Private and home-based pediatric therapy Coro Visual routines and first-then-next language Sensory supports such as alternative lighting and flexible seating About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is an occupational therapist, Army veteran, and the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides neurodiversity-affirming occupational, speech, and physical therapy services for children and families across Arizona, along with aquatic therapy and virtual parent coaching. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

  3. Oct 7

    65 | Autism Diagnosis, Waitlists & Insurance Denials | Kimberly Sadovich

    Receiving an autism diagnosis can bring both answers and a new wave of questions. What should you do while waiting for an evaluation? How do you find the right providers? And what happens if insurance denies the services your child needs? In this episode, Brian talks with Kimberly Sadovich, Senior Clinical Director at Forta Health, about practical steps parents can take throughout the diagnosis and service process. Kimberly explains why getting on an evaluation waitlist early can be helpful, what information families may want to document while waiting, and how honest conversations with providers can lead to better support. They also discuss insurance denials and why a denial does not always mean the conversation is over. Parents often have more influence than they realize, especially when they work alongside their therapy providers, ask questions, follow up consistently, and understand their options. This conversation offers reassurance for parents who may feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or unsure of what to do next. You do not have to navigate every step perfectly, and you do not have to navigate it alone. Topics Covered What parents can do while waiting for an autism evaluation Why it may help to join an evaluation waitlist early Information to document before meeting with a diagnosing provider Choosing qualified diagnostic and therapy providers What families can do after receiving an autism diagnosis How therapy providers may help with insurance denials Why parents have a voice when choosing services The importance of caregiver support and self-care When telehealth services may be helpful for families Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Kimberly's background 01:36 Autism evaluation waitlists and finding a qualified provider 06:22 What parents can document while waiting 11:23 What happens after receiving a diagnosis 13:09 Insurance denials, appeals, and provider support 22:04 Caregiver overwhelm, advocacy, and self-care Memorable Quote "Getting a denial is the start of the conversation, not the final end of the conversation." About the Guest Kimberly Sadovich is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and Senior Clinical Director at Forta Health. She has extensive experience supporting autistic children, young adults, and their families. Her work includes helping families navigate evaluation waitlists, access therapy services, respond to insurance barriers, and determine whether virtual ABA services may be a good fit for their child and family. Resources Mentioned Autism Learning Partners: Free online Registered Behavior Technician training that may also help parents learn more about behavior and supportive strategies Early intervention programs: Community-based services that may be available for children under age three School-based supports: IEP evaluations, accommodations, and therapy services available through a child's school Forta Health: Virtual ABA services and select in-person services for autistic children and families About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational, speech, and physical therapy services for children and families throughout Arizona, including aquatic therapy and virtual parent coaching. The practice focuses on helping children grow through connection, play, and meaningful participation in everyday life. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

  4. Sep 9

    64 | Autism-Friendly Travel Tips for Families | Teresa Roddy

    Traveling with a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming for many families… especially when sensory needs, routines, mobility challenges, or accessibility concerns are involved. In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with Teresa Roddy, an accessible travel specialist and occupational therapy assistant, to talk about how families can make travel feel more realistic, supportive, and enjoyable. Teresa shares how she helps families plan around real-life needs including sensory sensitivities, adaptive equipment, mobility accommodations, dietary restrictions, and communication supports. She also shares practical strategies families can use to reduce stress while traveling, including pacing vacations differently, preparing ahead of time, and building around a child's comfort needs rather than forcing packed schedules. This conversation is a reassuring reminder that meaningful family experiences are possible… and that families do not have to figure everything out alone. Topics Covered Sensory-friendly travel planning for autistic children Accessible travel accommodations and adaptive equipment Vacation strategies for families with disabilities How to reduce travel stress for neurodivergent children Comfort items and regulation support while traveling Why slowing down can improve family vacations Practical ways to prepare children before trips Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 02:30 Accessible travel and sensory accommodations 06:50 How Teresa plans trips around family needs 10:15 Common barriers families face with travel 13:05 Tips for avoiding overstimulation while traveling 15:20 Final encouragement for families Memorable Quote "Sometimes slowing down… taking breaks… and building around your child's comfort needs can completely change the experience for the whole family." About the Guest Teresa Roddy is an accessible travel specialist and certified occupational therapy assistant with over 25 years of experience working with pediatric populations. Through Accessible Travel with Teresa, she helps families plan vacations that consider sensory needs, mobility accommodations, adaptive equipment, dietary restrictions, and accessibility support. Instagram: Accessible Travel with Teresa Instagram Facebook: Accessible Travel with Teresa Facebook Resources Mentioned Autism on the Seas About the Host Hosted by Brian Keene, occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy company providing home-based occupational, speech, and physical therapy services throughout Arizona. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: Autism Family Resource Podcast Explore more resources for families at:  Pure Hearts Therapy

  5. Sep 9

    63 | Sensory Overload, Social Connection & Autism | Lawrence Harris

    What does sensory overload actually feel like for autistic individuals? In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with speaker, author, and content creator Lawrence Harris to discuss autism, sensory overwhelm, social connection, emotional regulation, bullying, and identity through Lawrence's lived experiences. Lawrence shares powerful examples of what sensory overload felt like growing up… from loud classrooms and fluorescent lights to overwhelming grocery stores and uncomfortable clothing textures. He also opens up about navigating friendships, masking, confidence, and learning how to better understand himself over time. This conversation offers parents and caregivers a meaningful look into how autistic individuals may experience the world differently… while also reminding families that being different does not mean something is wrong. A thoughtful, honest, and neurodiversity-affirming conversation filled with practical insight and emotional reflection for families supporting neurodivergent children. Topics Covered What sensory overload can actually feel like Clothing sensitivities and sensory overwhelm Autism and emotional regulation Loud environments, grocery stores, and overstimulation Social communication and reading social cues Bullying, masking, and self-acceptance Autism, friendships, and finding connection Strategies Lawrence uses to manage sensory overwhelm Why understanding sensory needs matters for families Supporting autistic children with compassion and acceptance Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Lawrence Harris 01:45 What sensory overload can feel like 06:40 Clothing sensitivities and family misunderstandings 10:20 Autism, friendships, and social communication 21:00 Finding friendships through shared interests 26:20 Different sensory regulation strategies within families 30:35 Lawrence's journey into advocacy and speaking 34:40 "You're not broken" message for autistic individuals Memorable Quote "You're not broken… you just think a bit different… and that's okay." About the Guest Lawrence Harris is an autistic speaker, author, and content creator who shares openly about sensory overwhelm, emotional regulation, confidence, bullying, and personal growth through his lived experiences. Through speaking, writing, and online content, Lawrence helps others better understand autism and neurodivergent experiences in a relatable and empowering way. Instagram: Lawrence C Empowers Instagram Website, books, and resources: Lawrence Harris Website Resources Mentioned Noise-canceling headphones Journaling for emotional regulation Meditation and exercise for stress management About the Host Hosted by Brian Keene, occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy company providing home-based occupational, speech, physical, and aquatic therapy services throughout Arizona, along with virtual parent coaching and family support. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: Autism Family Resource Podcast Explore more resources for families at: Pure Hearts Therapy

  6. Aug 26

    62 | Neurodivergent Strengths, Progress & Autism | Ozziel Inzunza

    What happens when an autistic adult becomes a speech therapy professional supporting neurodivergent children and families? In this episode, Brian sits down with Ozzie Inzunza, a neurodivergent Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) and autistic adult, to discuss his personal journey growing up neurodivergent, navigating communication and social differences, and how those experiences now shape his work with children and families. Ozzie shares what it was like growing up with intense interests, feeling different from peers, and eventually discovering a passion for helping others through speech therapy. Together, they explore why differences are not deficits, the importance of recognizing strengths, and how small, often overlooked wins can add up to meaningful progress over time. This conversation offers encouragement for parents who may be wondering if their child is making progress, feeling uncertain about the future, or searching for a more empowering perspective on neurodiversity. Topics Covered Growing up neurodivergent in a traditional Hispanic household Special interests, scripting, and early signs of autism Social challenges and finding connection with others Ozzie's path from sports medicine to speech therapy Why strengths-based approaches matter Supporting autistic children without underestimating their abilities Helping parents recognize small but meaningful progress Hope, growth, and lifelong learning for neurodivergent individuals Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Ozzie's story 01:30 Early childhood interests and autism traits 05:11 Special interests through childhood and adulthood 08:20 Social experiences and growing up neurodivergent 10:42 Discovering speech therapy as a career 12:34 How lived experience shapes therapy 15:06 Encouraging and supporting parents Memorable Quote "Every single client is capable and knows more than I even suspect they might." About the Guest Ozzie is a neurodivergent Speech-Language Pathologist Assistant (SLPA) who works with pediatric families and is currently completing his studies at Arizona State University to become a Speech-Language Pathologist. Drawing from both professional training and lived experience as an autistic adult, Ozzie brings a strengths-based, neurodiversity-affirming perspective to supporting children and families. Resources Mentioned Ozzie's Instagram: @illmindofozzie About the Host Brian Keene, OTD, OTR/L, is the founder of Pure Hearts Therapy and host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast. Through neurodiversity-affirming conversations, Brian helps families better understand, support, and advocate for their children while providing practical strategies they can use in everyday life. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at:  https://pureheartstherapy.com

  7. Aug 12

    61 | ADHD Medication & Executive Functioning | Dr. Norrine Russell

    In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene sits down with ADHD coach, educator, and parent advocate Dr. Norrine Russell for an honest and supportive conversation about ADHD medication, executive functioning, and helping children build lifelong skills. For many families, medication can feel overwhelming, emotional, and filled with conflicting opinions. Dr. Russell shares her perspective as both a parent and advocate, helping families better understand how ADHD medication conversations often unfold, what "first-line treatment" means, and why parents don't have to navigate these decisions alone. The conversation also explores the important idea that medication does not teach skills by itself. Brian and Dr. Russell discuss practical ways parents can support routines, organization, emotional regulation, time management, and executive functioning at home using simple tools and supportive environments. This episode is not about telling parents what decisions to make. It's about helping families feel more informed, supported, and empowered to advocate for their child in thoughtful and compassionate ways.     Topics Covered Why ADHD medication conversations feel emotional for families What "first-line treatment" means for ADHD Common medication concerns and side effects parents notice Why symptom tracking can help families advocate effectively Executive functioning explained in parent-friendly language Practical ways to support routines, organization, and planning Why medication does not replace skill-building Helping neurodivergent children advocate for themselves Navigating social media advice and extreme medication stories     Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:40 Why medication conversations feel overwhelming 05:00 What "first-line treatment" means 10:30 Understanding medication duration and side effects 19:50 What parents should track during medication trials 22:45 "Pills and skills" and executive functioning support 29:10 Helping children understand and advocate for themselves     Memorable Quote "Your child is still your child. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Don't be afraid to seek support. And don't be afraid to advocate for your child."     About the Guest Dr. Norrine Russell is an ADHD coach, educator, parent advocate, and founder of Russell Coaching. She supports neurodivergent students and families while also bringing personal experience as a parent of children with ADHD and autism.     Resources Mentioned Russell Coaching ADHD Medication: Does It Work and Is It Safe? by Walt Karnisky Symptom tracker tools for medication observations Family whiteboards, timers, and visual schedules for executive functioning support     About the Host Hosted by Brian Keene, occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice providing home-based occupational, speech, and physical therapy services across Arizona, including aquatic therapy and virtual parent coaching.     Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

  8. Jul 29

    60 | Executive Functioning & Student Coaching in Autism | Dr. Norrine Russell

    In this episode, Brian sits down with Dr. Norrine Russell, a developmental psychologist, parent, and founder of one of the largest coaching practices for neurodivergent students in the country. Drawing from both her professional expertise and her lived experience raising children with ADHD, autism, and anxiety, Dr. Russell shares a powerful and practical approach to supporting kids in school and in life. The conversation breaks down executive functioning in a way that actually makes sense for parents and caregivers, reframing it as everyday life skills like planning, time management, and follow-through. You'll also hear about "Connected Coaching," a model that supports students through executive functioning, social-emotional growth, and study skills. From task initiation struggles to test preparation challenges, this episode is filled with real-life examples and strategies families can begin using right away. Dr. Russell also shares key insights on IEP and 504 advocacy, helping parents better navigate school systems and ensure their child gets the support they need. This episode is a reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all approach—and that your child's strengths matter just as much as their challenges. Topics Covered What executive functioning really means in everyday life Why task initiation and follow-through are common challenges How to support kids with planning and organization The biggest study skill most students are missing Why self-testing is critical for learning and retention How to advocate effectively in IEPs and 504 plans Understanding autism as multiple spectrums, not just one Why strengths-based support changes everything Memorable Quote "You have permission to create your parenting style in a way that works for your child and your family." About the Guest Dr. Norrine Russell is a developmental psychologist, parent, and founder of Russell Coaching for Students, one of the largest coaching practices for neurodivergent students in the U.S. She developed the "Connected Coaching" model, which integrates executive functioning, social-emotional development, and academic skills to support students in a holistic and personalized way. Resources Mentioned Russell Coaching for Students (20% off 3 months with code: podcast26) Quizlet (study and self-testing tool) About the Host Brian Keene is an occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy, a neurodiversity-affirming pediatric therapy practice based in Arizona. Through the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian provides practical tools, support, and real conversations to help families feel more confident navigating their child's journey. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com

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Raising a neurodivergent child can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone. The Autism Family Resource Podcast is designed for parents looking for practical autism resources, real-life parenting strategies, and meaningful support for families navigating autism and neurodiversity. Each episode shares actionable tools, daily routines, and honest insights from parents, therapists, and neurodivergent individuals who understand the journey firsthand. From sensory challenges and communication to behavior, emotional regulation, and everyday routines, this podcast provides clear, realistic autism parenting strategies you can actually use at home. I'm Brian Keene, a licensed pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. We provide neurodiversity-affirming, home-based and virtual therapy services for families in the Phoenix metro area. If you're searching for autism resources for parents, family support, and practical guidance, you're in the right place. Subscribe to stay connected and be the first to hear new episodes. For questions or support, reach out at info@pureheartstherapy.com or visit www.pureheartstherapy.com to learn more.

Information

  • Creator
    Brian Keene
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © TheAutismFamilyResource2021-2026
  • Show Website
    Autism Family Resource