The Autism Dad The Autism Dad Channel

Episode Summary:
In this episode, Rob sits down with Kimberly Hauck, the Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). They discuss the crucial role the DODD plays in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families across Ohio. Kimberly details her journey from starting as a direct support professional to leading the department, emphasizing the department's commitment to advocacy and resource provision.
Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.
Introduction:
- Host: Rob Gorski
- Guest: Kimberly Hauck, Director, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities
Key Points Discussed:
1. Kimberly Hauck's Background:
- Over 30 years in the field of developmental disabilities, starting as a direct support professional and special education teacher, before moving into administrative roles.
- Committed advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
2. Role of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities:
- Oversees local county boards, serves as a regulator for service providers, and ensures accessibility to funds and resources for developmental support.
3. Transitioning from Youth to Adult Services:
- Importance of early intervention and support as individuals with disabilities transition from school to adult life.
4. County Board of Developmental Disabilities' Role:
- Help families navigate complex systems, manage eligibility for services, and support transitions.
- Provide various supports, including respite services and accessibility improvements in local communities.
5. Impact of Accessible Infrastructure:
- Recent initiatives to enhance accessibility, such as universal changing tables and accessible playgrounds, under Kimberly’s leadership.
6. Advice for Parents and Caregivers:
- Encouragement to connect with local resources early to maximize support and prepare for future independence of their children.
Resources Mentioned:
- NASDDDS website for national disability resources
- Early intervention programs for children from birth until age three
Conclusion:
Kimberly and Rob emphasize the importance of seeking help and utilizing available services, aiming to inspire and inform families about the support structures in place to foster independence and a better quality of life for individuals with disabilities.
Calls to Action:
- Visit DODD’s website for more information and resources.
- Reach out to your local board of DD to explore services and support available in your area.

Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More: Mightier
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Visit Mightier
Learn More: Goally
The...

Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode, Rob Gorski sits down with his eldest son, Gavin, who is autistic, to discuss the important and nerve-wracking journey of transitioning to adulthood. They delve into Gavin's experiences with job training, his first job, and the process of touring group homes as he plans his future.
Key Points Discussed:
- Transition to Adulthood: Gavin shares his progress and challenges as he navigates through important milestones like job training and exploring living arrangements.
- Touring Group Homes: Gavin talks about his criteria for a suitable group home and his feelings about touring such homes for the first time.
- Future Plans and Aspirations: Gavin discusses his aspirations to start a YouTube channel focused on gaming, aiming to build it as both a passion project and a safety net.
- Managing Health and Personal Interests: As someone who is immunocompromised, Gavin emphasizes the importance of living in a clean and healthy environment. He also shares how he wishes to include his future roommates in his YouTube gaming sessions.
Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.


Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More: Mightier
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Visit Mightier

Welcome to another insightful episode of "The Autism Dad" podcast. In this episode, Rob Gorski, your host, sits down with Kevin Miller, an autism dad and the Executive Director of Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), a state agency dedicated to assisting individuals with disabilities in finding and maintaining employment.
In This Episode, You'll Discover:
- Kevin's Personal Journey: Kevin shares his personal story as an autism dad, discussing the challenges and revelations he and his family faced from early diagnosis to adulthood.
- Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD): Kevin provides an in-depth look at OOD, detailing how the agency supports individuals with disabilities across Ohio, helping them achieve independence through employment.
- The Power of Employment: Discover how Rob's son, Gavin, benefited from OOD's programs, gaining not just a job but a sense of purpose and autonomy.
- Navigating the Transition to Adulthood: Kevin and Rob discuss the often-daunting transition to adulthood for young people with autism and how programs like OOD can provide crucial support.
- Resources and Advice for Parents: Kevin offers resources and advice for parents navigating the journey of raising children with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of fostering independence and finding purpose.
- A Father's Perspective: Both Kevin and Rob share their experiences and insights as fathers of autistic children, offering a candid look at the challenges, joys, and personal growth that comes with their unique parenting roles.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
- Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities: Explore the services and support offered by OOD by visiting OODWorks.com or calling 800-282-4536.
- Contacting The Autism Dad: For more information, to be a guest, or to become a sponsor, please visit theautismdad.link.
Connect with Us:
- Subscribe to our Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen to your podcasts.
- Follow The Autism Dad on Social Media: Stay up to date with the latest episodes and join our growing community.
Special Thanks:
A heartfelt thank you to Kevin Miller for sharing his story and expertise. His insights into the world of disabilities and the power of employment have the potential to change lives.
And, as always, thank you to our listeners for joining us on this journey. Your support and engagement make this podcast possible. If you found this episode helpful, please consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and sharing it with someone who might benefit from our discussions.
Don't miss our next episode, where we'll explore another important topic in the autism community. Subscribe now to stay updated!
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More About Tranquil Path Financial Planning
Britta Kepf is a dedicated special needs financial planner at Tranquil Path Financial Planning, offering unbiased, tailored advice for families across the U.S. She specializes in retirement and special needs financial planning, helping families navigate government benefits and long-term needs with clarity and peace of mind. For compassionate, personalized financial guidance, contact Britta Kepf at tranquilfp.com.
Visit Tranquil Path Financial Planning
Learn More: Mightier
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to...

Summary
In this conversation, Rob Gorski and Amber Arrington discuss the challenges and decisions involved in parenting adult children with autism. They address sensitive topics such as transitioning to adulthood, the need for independence, and the consideration of group homes. They also explore the emotional impact of making decisions like pursuing guardianship and the stigma attached to these choices. Amber shares her personal experience with her son living in a group home and highlights the importance of open conversations and support for parents navigating the complexities of autism parenting.
About GuestAmber Arrington is a mother to 6 children, 3 of whom are autistic.
Autism was once a word she feared and has become a word she loves. Now she helps parents navigate an autism diagnosis and the autism landscape as a whole. She educates moms about available services and connects them with appropriate services and professionals.
Amber helps parents become "autism savvy" so they can know the best next steps to take for their child.
Connect with Amber:
http://www.autismsavvy.com/
Facebook
Instagram
Hosted by Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski, a devoted single father to three incredible autistic sons, is the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. As a multi-award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, and influential social media figure for over a decade, Rob continues to share his family's journey, providing insights, resources, and support to the autism community.
Connect with Rob by visiting theautismdad.link
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More: Goally
The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.
Visit Goally
Learn More: Mightier
Mightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.

Read My Mightier Review and the code “theautismdad22” to save 10% off your order.
Visit Mightier

In this week’s episode, Emmett, my 15 year old autistic son, and I answer a bunch of your autism related questions. Emmett dug through a huge list of questions you folks submitted via Facebook and create a list of 10 he wanted us to talk about this week. This was a lot of fun. :-)
Resources and Links:Episode mentioned for future reference: "The Parent's Guide to Navigating Autism and Puberty" with Dr. Whitney Casares: theautismdad.link.
Guest Expert:Emmett Gorski is a 15-year-old autistic advocate and the son of Rob Gorski, the influential blogger and podcast host behind "The Autism Dad." Passionate about raising awareness and understanding of autism, Emmett brings a unique, firsthand perspective to the conversation. Articulate and insightful, he has been featured on "The Autism Dad" podcast, where he discusses topics ranging from identity-first language to the daily challenges and triumphs of being autistic. With a keen interest in technology and a natural ability to connect with people, Emmett is not only a voice for autistic teens but also an inspiration for families navigating the complexities of autism.
Hosted by Rob Gorski:Rob Gorski, a devoted single father to three incredible autistic sons, is the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. As a multi-award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, and influential social media figure for over a decade, Rob continues to share his family's journey, providing insights, resources, and support to the autism community.
Connect with Rob by visiting theautismdad.link
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More: Goally
The Goally tablet is focused on fostering independence in kids without the distractions of ads, social media, or potentially harmful content. Unlike Kindle and iPad tablets, Goally's Tablet exclusively features educational apps like Khan Academy, Duolingo ABC, and Starfall, and is entirely controlled by parents. Goally's Kids Calendar helps kids with things like task management. Kids also learn life skills through video classes and pre-made routines, enhancing their independence.

For more information, you can visit getgoally.com and use the code “theautismdad” to save 10% off your order.
Visit Goally
Learn More About Tranquil Path Financial Planning
Britta Kepf is a dedicated special needs financial planner at Tranquil Path Financial Planning, offering unbiased, tailored advice for families across the U.S. She specializes in retirement and special needs financial planning, helping families navigate government benefits and long-term needs with clarity and peace of mind. For compassionate, personalized financial guidance, contact Britta Kepf at tranquilfp.com.
Visit Tranquil Path Financial Planning

SummaryLena Hartman from Make'm Smile Ohio discusses the organization's annual event that celebrates individuals with disabilities and their families. The event offers a party-like atmosphere with various activities, entertainment, and resource exhibitors. Lena emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and acceptance, ensuring that families feel comfortable and supported. Siblings are also included in the event to ensure they feel valued and celebrated. The event is free of charge and takes place on the second Saturday of July each year. Lena encourages people to get involved by volunteering or making donations to support the event.
 makemsmileohio.org
SAVE THE DATE: Nathaniel’s Hope
6th Annual Make ’m Smile Ohio
Free For Everyone
Saturday, July 13, 2024
11:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Biggest Party Celebrating kids of all ages with Special Needs
Harvestime Apostolic Temple is so excited to invite you to attend.
Contact Lena if you have any questions – 330-704-7896
See you at: Hartville Memorial Park, Hartville OH 44632
Mentioned in this episode:
Learn More About Tranquil Path Financial Planning
Britta Kepf is a dedicated special needs financial planner at Tranquil Path Financial Planning, offering unbiased, tailored advice for families across the U.S. She specializes in retirement and special needs financial planning, helping families navigate government benefits and long-term needs with clarity and peace of mind. For compassionate, personalized financial guidance, contact Britta Kepf at tranquilfp.com.
Visit Tranquil Path Financial Planning