The Gift of Self Expression & Parenting A Non-Verbal Human

On the Autism Spectrum, there are some people who are never able to speak more than a few words. The inability to verbally communicate indicates no lack of intelligence and it can be incredibly frustrating for those who have much to offer but whose thoughts and ideas are locked inside their own minds.

Among these shrouded geniuses is 19-year-old Jacob Rock, son of Wild Honey Foundation Founder and Director, Paul Rock. Jacob’s two lone spoken words are “yes,” and “eat,” but during the pandemic he was able to focus on his one finger iPad typing and his inner dialogue began to blossom into multi-syllable, complex thoughts, views and poetry. Jacob also typed that he was composing a symphony.

To manifest this vision, Paul solicited the help of Wild Honey Musical Director Rob Laufer. Rob and Jacob began collaborating, composing and mind-melding and the result is a 71 minute symphonic piece called Unforgettable Sunrise which will be performed on September 30th, 2023 with a full orchestra from the USC Thornton School of Music at The Alex Theater in Los Angeles.

Jacob’s piece is autobiographical and it chronicles his struggles with distress, discomfort, stomach pain, self harm, frustration and ultimately, peace, finding his voice and the joy of creation.

Paul and Rob join us to share their process in facilitating Jacob’s self-expression. Paul brings his fullest heart to a reading of Jacob’s poetry and together, our guests illuminate how we may all be able to learn the most from those who say the least. 

Plus, Fritz and Weezy are recommending Golda (2023), in theaters and Silo on Apple TV+. And Weezy recaps the Adam Schiff fundraiser she hosted mid hurriquake!

Path Points of Interest:

Wild Honey Foundation on Facebook

Unforgettable Sunrise at the Alex Theater

Unforgettable Sunrise on Soundcloud

Music Connection Article

L.A. Beat Article

Paul Rock on Youtube

Paul Rock on Instagram

Rob Laufer

Rob Laufer on Instagram

Adam Schiff Event Photos

Adam Schiff's Conversation with Holocaust Survivors

Silo - Apple TV

Golda - In Theaters

The Sunshine Boy/A Mother's Courage Documentary