Best Autism Helper Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 328: Summer Series: My 3 Favorite Data Collection Tools 6:18

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5d ago6:18

6:18

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, I’m sharing three of my favorite data collection tools that make tracking behavior easier and more effective. First, we’ll talk about Click Counter and Finger Counters, a simple tool to track frequency data in real time. Then, I’ll explain why I love clipboards for keeping everything organ…

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Understanding Autism - Practical Advice from 3 Great Books on Autism 20:41

8d ago20:41

20:41

This podcast offers vital insights into autism, explaining why it's a 'spectrum condition' that comes with various sensory, communication, and social challenges. Drawing on the Autism Info Center's popular books, it covers key ideas such as sensory sensitivities, masking, stimming, and the importance of routines and special interests. For autistic …

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Episode 327: Summer Series: 4 of My Favorite Behavior Visuals 10:01

12d ago10:01

10:01

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, I’m sharing four of my favorite behavior visuals that can make a big impact in the classroom or at home. First, we’ll dive into Waiting Choice Boards, which help give clear structure to wait times. Then, I’ll explain how First, Then visuals can create smoother transitions and reduce anxiet…

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Episode 326: Summer Series: 5 Ways to Build Student Rapport 7:48

19d ago7:48

7:48

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we explore five effective ways to build strong rapport with your students. First, we discuss the importance of observing what they engage with in the classroom to better understand their interests. We also talk about getting to know their family members and home life, which helps create de…

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Episode 325: Summer Series: 4 Classroom Pet Peeves and How to Avoid Them 10:07

26d ago10:07

10:07

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we dive into four common classroom pet peeves and how to avoid them for a smoother, more effective learning environment. We’ll talk about the issue of undoing work in front of the student and why it can be counterproductive. We also explore how using age-appropriate work, toys, and materia…

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Episode 324: Summer Series: 2 Ways to Transition Away from Preferred Items 7:18

1M ago7:18

7:18

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast Summer Series, we tackle two effective strategies for transitioning away from preferred items. First, we discuss the importance of giving a clear warning or countdown to help your child prepare for the change. Then, we dive into the approach of transitioning from highly preferred items to those that are …

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Episode 323: Summer Series: 4 Things to Do Now to Help You During Back to School Season 7:49

1M ago7:49

7:49

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, the first episode of our Summer Series, we share four key tasks to do now to prep for back-to-school success. We’ll cover cleaning out and prepping independent work tasks, creating new morning binders, upgrading your schedule system, and prepping new curriculum or daily work. These simple steps will hel…

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Episode 322: Encore Episode: 5 Ways the Executive Functions Masterclass will Improve Your Classroom 20:25

2M ago20:25

20:25

The Executive Functions Masterclass course has been taken by hundreds of teachers, clinicians, and parents with consistently great reviews. This course will prepare you to support struggling learners by building executive functioning skills. You will learn how to assess skills, create a thorough plan, and develop proactive supports. In this episode…

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Look For The Helpers: Endangered Zoo Babies, Arts for Autism Benefit, and a Health & Human Services Announcement 18:08

2M ago18:08

18:08

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. The animal kingdom delivers a profound lesson in resilience at the Philadelphia Zoo, where we witnessed history in the making. Four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings—the first in the zoo's 150-year existence—represent an extraordinary conservation bre…

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Episode 321: Encore Episode: Moving Beyond Requesting using AAC with Janna Bedoyan & Morgan van Diepen 41:49

2M ago41:49

41:49

Janna and Morgan share actionable tips and strategies for moving beyond requesting with your learners that use AAC. Janna Bedoyan is an early childhood special education teacher and AAC specialist. Morgan van Diepens is a BCBA. We discuss the biggest challenges of incorporating AAC into the home or classroom, why kids often get “stuck” at requestin…

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Episode 320: Encore Episode: Why You Should Move Away From Moveable Piece Schedules 11:05

2M ago11:05

11:05

Schedules with moveable pieces are great to provide substantial support and visual prompting for how to navigate the classroom. Once students are successful with this type of schedule, move towards a paper schedule. These schedules provide more options for generalization. You can more readily incorporate these schedules into new settings leading to…

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Episode 319: Inclusive School Communities with Tiffany Burns and Erika Bare 37:06

3M ago37:06

37:06

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Tiffany Burns and Erika Bare discuss strategies for creating truly inclusive school environments for all learners. They cover key topics like the biggest obstacles to successful inclusion, practical ways to make classrooms more welcoming, the importance of collaboration among staff, and the vital role o…

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Episode 318: Running an Effective Lesson with Kelsey Kistner 27:24

3M ago27:24

27:24

Join Special Education Teacher, Kelsey Kistner, who offers practical strategies for supporting students during academic instruction. Kelsey discusses her top teaching methods, the importance of student choice, how to boost motivation, and how she manages problem behaviors during group lessons. She also dives into Classroom Pivotal Response Teaching…

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Episode 317: Effective Inclusion with Leanne Greenberg 33:22

3M ago33:22

33:22

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Leanne Greenberg joins us to discuss creating inclusive environments for students with autism. She shares her insights on overcoming barriers to inclusion, dispelling common misconceptions about autism, and highlighting successful strategies used in schools. Leanne also discusses the importance of socia…

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Exploring Theater and Autism, Dismantling Vaccine Myths, and Honoring Jim Henson's Legacy 34:08

3M ago34:08

34:08

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Ted Harris invites us into his vibrant world as he shares his transformative journey at Theater Horizon, a professional theater offering specialized programs for people with autism. Through games, performance, and community, Ted's pursuing his Broadway dreams while developing crucial soc…

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Episode 316: Establishing Great Communication with the IEP Team with Jenn Adams 23:18

3M ago23:18

23:18

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Jenn Adams joins us to discuss strategies for building effective communication within the IEP Team. Jenn Adams is a seasoned special education and general education teacher and the creative force behind Teach Love Autism. With 17 years of teaching experience, Jenn has dedicated most of her career to sup…

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Episode 315: Teaching How to Handle Change 6:50

3M ago6:50

6:50

In this episode, we explore effective strategies for teaching students with autism how to handle change. Whether it's transitions between activities, changes in routine, or unexpected events, managing change can be challenging for many students on the spectrum. Tune in for practical tips and techniques to help build flexibility, reduce anxiety, and…

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Episode 314: Using ACT to Improve Your Teaching or Parenting with Leanne Page, BCBA 26:01

4M ago26:01

26:01

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re joined by Leanne Page, BCBA, from Parenting with ABA, who shares her insights on how utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) can benefit both parents and educators. Leanne explains the core principles of ACT and how it has helped her become a more comp…

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Episode 313: Questions from The Autism Helper App 30:36

4M ago30:36

30:36

In this episode, I dive into 8 insightful questions submitted by teachers, clinicians, and parents through The Autism Helper app. Whether you're a professional or a parent looking for guidance, this episode covers a range of topics, from behavior, resource prep, to staff training. The Autism Helper App serves as a comprehensive hub, housing our onl…

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Episode 312: Encore Episode: How to Teach Your Team About Reinforcement 28:35

4M ago28:35

28:35

You are never truly an expert on something until you know how to teach it to others. Reinforcement is something that affects all areas of your classroom and your students' success. It affects your students' academic skills, level of independence, social skills, problem behaviors, and more. It's a fundamental component to your classroom. You absolut…

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Fin-tastic Adventures, Autistic Fire Hero, and Muppets vs. The LA Wildfires 24:53

4M ago24:53

24:53

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Dive into an underwater journey as we recount our adventures at the Adventure Aquarium! We met fascinating marine animals, including sharks, hippopotami, and adorable blue penguins. Ted shares heartfelt insights about marine conservation and why nurturing our environment is crucial. We h…

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Episode 311: Dysregulation with Jessie Ginsburg, the Sensory SLP 26:58

5M ago26:58

26:58

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we welcome expert Jessie Ginsburg to discuss dysregulation in individuals with autism. Jessie defines dysregulation and shares key signs to look for, as well as effective strategies for educators and caregivers to intervene and prevent these moments. We also delve into issues of safety, the confusion be…

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Episode 310: Exploring Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) with Taylor Rae Homesley 18:56

5M ago18:56

18:56

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, Taylor Rae Homesley explores Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and its connection to autism. Learn about the symptoms, treatment overlaps, and the varying intensity of ARFID. Taylor emphasizes the importance of education and awareness, guiding parents and educators on when to seek help a…

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Episode 309: Neurodiversity-Affirming IEPs with Chris Wenger - The Speech Dude 35:51

5M ago35:51

35:51

In this episode, we chat with Chris Wenger, The Speech Dude, about neurodiversity-affirming goals and IEPs. Learn how to craft IEPs that truly reflect the strengths and needs of neurodiverse students, and discover how these goals can boost engagement and learning. Chris also shares practical advice for parents on advocating for positive outcomes in…

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Episode 308: Benefits of Reverse Inclusion with Jennifer Stracquadanio and Meghan Stenziano 29:34

5M ago29:34

29:34

Join us on The Autism Helper Podcast as we explore inclusive education with Jen, a BCBA, and Meghan, a special education teacher. In this episode, we dive into reverse inclusion and its benefits, discussing strategies for creating inclusive environments, supporting social skill development, and the vital roles of educators and support staff. Discov…

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Episode 307: Tackling Toileting Challenges with Dr. Steven Hodges 29:12

6M ago29:12

29:12

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, I interview Dr. Steven Hodges, a pediatric urology expert from Wake Forest University. We discuss the unique challenges of potty training for children with autism and developmental delays. Dr. Hodges shares insights on recognizing readiness signs, identifying constipation symptoms, and its impact on toi…

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Episode 306: Creating a Cohesive Home and School Connection with Dr. El Brown 28:23

6M ago28:23

28:23

Join us for an enlightening episode featuring Dr. El Brown, an expert in education and advocacy. In this episode, we tackle the crucial topic of collaboration between schools and families. We explore the reasons behind the disconnect that often arises, and Dr. Brown shares invaluable insights on how teachers can bridge that gap effectively. Discove…

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Enchanting Cape May, Movie Magic, and Heartfelt Caregiving 51:12

6M ago51:12

51:12

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Our first episode for the New Year captures a memorable journey through Cape May, highlighting delightful adventures, delicious eats, and festive places. We explore local history, and share personal stories. Next, we talk about Disney's Mufasa, and how much AI should be used in big-budge…

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Episode 305: Actionable Strategies and Techniques to Help Improve Reading Comprehension with Dr. Emily Levy 17:55

7M ago17:55

17:55

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Emily Levy, founder of EBL Coaching, to dive into the topic of reading comprehension—a challenge faced by many students, especially those with autism. Dr. Levy discusses why reading comprehension is such a common struggle, how it impacts overall academic performance, and the role of missing prerequisite skills in thi…

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Episode 304: Purposefully Building Communication Skills with Kaylan Long, BCBA 19:20

7M ago19:20

19:20

In this episode, we sit down with Kaylan Long, a behavior analyst and founder of Caffeinated Behavior Change, to explore the importance of building communication skills for students with autism. Kaylan shares her insights on how to be intentional about embedding communication opportunities throughout the school day, even during unconventional or ov…

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Episode 303: Ins and Outs of Potty Training for Children with Autism with Tara Phillips 33:58

8M ago33:58

33:58

In this episode, we chat with Tara Phillips, founder of Autism Little Learners, about the ins and outs of potty training for children with autism. Tara shares her expertise on recognizing signs that a child may be ready to start potty training and the key prerequisites or readiness skills to look for. She explains why potty training can be more cha…

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Episode 302: 6 Dos and Don'ts of De-escalation 12:40

8M ago12:40

12:40

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we’re diving into the critical strategies for de-escalating a challenging situation with children on the autism spectrum. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, knowing how to manage moments of crisis is key to creating a safe and supportive environment. We’ll walk through the 6 essential dos a…

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Episode 301: Gestalt Language Processing with SLP Alex Zachos 38:54

8M ago38:54

38:54

In this episode of The Autism Helper Podcast, we dive into the world of gestalt language processing with Alex Zachos from Meaningful Speech. Alex shares valuable insights into understanding and supporting autistic children who communicate through gestalt language, a unique approach where language develops in larger "chunks" rather than individual w…

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Episode 300: Celebrating 300 Episodes of The Autism Helper Podcast 18:40

9M ago18:40

18:40

Happy 300th Episode of The Autism Helper Podcast! I am so grateful for this community that supported us for 300 episodes. Today I reflect back on the process of starting a podcast, some of the biggest obstacles, and share my process for recording. I also share some of my most memorable guests and where I hope this podcast goes in the future. If you…

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Episode 299: Creating Real World Friendly Interventions with BCBA Liat Sacks 33:26

9M ago33:26

33:26

Liat Sacks is a BCBA, voice behind the popular Behavior Bitches Podcast, and co-founder of CEUS by Study Notes ABA and the Study Notes ABA App. In this episode, we chat about the major differences between being a clinician versus being a parent on implementing behavioral strategies. We discuss how clinicians can make behavior plans more real-world …

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Episode 298: Incorporating Movement into Literacy Instruction with Stefanie Hohl 16:15

9M ago16:15

16:15

Incorporating movement into reading instruction can be an essential missing piece for struggling learners. In this episode, Stefanie Hohl shares how kinesthetic learning strategies can help students master literacy skills more effectively. Stefanie is the founder of ABC See, Hear, Do Learn-to-Read method to make early reading fun and easy for kids …

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Episode 297: The Future of PECS with Andy Bondy and Lori Frost 28:36

10M ago28:36

28:36

PECS is a widely utilized communication system for many students struggling with communication and is a staple in many special education classrooms. In this episode, hear from PECS founders Andy Bondy and Lori Frost. Andy and Lori share how they initially developed PECS and how PECS has evolved over the years. They also share the future of PECS and…

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Goodbye Summer, Hello Fall, and Celebrating Legends: A Day of Thrills and Reflection 26:47

10M ago26:47

26:47

Send us a text message to say hi! We’d love to hear from you. Ever wondered what it feels like to navigate the twists and turns of the Lazy River at Ocean Oasis? Join us on "Life in the Ted Lane" as we recount our exhilarating adventure to Morey's Pier in Wildwood, New Jersey! Our day was packed with thrills, from the giant Ferris wheel to the spoo…

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Episode 296: Special Education Curriculum Designed for Your Classroom 23:09

10M ago23:09

23:09

Special education teachers are often tasked with the complex and overwhelming responsibility of creating curriculum for their classrooms. There are very few curriculum options that meet the needs of a multi-level classroom. Struggles with other curricula include being difficult to navigate, time-consuming to prep, not fitting a wide enough range of…

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Episode 295: Encore Episode: Step 7: 3 Stations That Lend Itself to Communication 10:54

10M ago10:54

10:54

Communication skill-building should be embedded into all parts of your day. 3 stations that lend itself to building communication skills in a fun and hands-on way are art, cooking, and games. In this episode, I share why these stations are great for increasing communication skills and how to set these up in your classroom. Resources: Visual Recipes…

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Episode 294: Encore Episode: Step 6: How and Why to Organize Your Resources 11:45

10M ago11:45

11:45

Organization is key in a multi-grade classroom with students at various skill levels. When we have students at so many skill levels, there are so many different resources that we need. In order to teach each learner at the level they are at, we need to stay organized. In this episode, I share simple strategies for setting up and maintaining your or…

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Episode 293: Encore Episode: Step 5: Two Ways to Organize Data in Your Classroom 9:52

10M ago9:52

9:52

There are two main ways to organize data in your classroom: by student or by center. The method that works best for you depends on your personal preferences and the overall setup of your classroom. In this episode, I go through the two organization options and specific considerations for each. ---------------------------------------------- Interest…

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Episode 292: Encore Episode: Step 4: Visuals Aren't a Magic Wand 10:09

11M ago10:09

10:09

Visuals and schedules are tools. And tools need to be taught. Tools require instruction. We need to teach our students how to utilize these tools. They will not be a magic wand. In this episode, I share how to teach the visuals you are setting up in your classroom so students can use them independently. ---------------------------------------------…

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Episode 291: Encore Episode: Step 3: Least Restrictive Schedule Continuum 16:20

11M ago16:20

16:20

Student schedules are necessary in the classroom. Schedules are functional and needed to build independence, autonomy, and problem-solving skills. The goal is not to get rid of the schedule but rather to increase independence with the schedule and continue to move towards less restrictive schedule types. In the episode, I introduce the least restri…

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Episode 290: Encore Episode: Step 2: Why a Structured Environment is Key 11:44

11M ago11:44

11:44

A structured environment is key because it leads to decreased negative behaviors, less student anxiety and increased independence and efficiency. A structured environment is a setting that is predictable and routine based. The setting is visually divided and defined. There is a clear start and end to each part of the class. In the episode, we explo…

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Episode 289: Encore Episode: Step 1: 15 Questions to Ask When Setting Up Your Room 21:39

11M ago21:39

21:39

When getting started setting up your classroom, you want to be purposeful and think about what you are doing and why. The first step in our 7 Steps for Setting Up a Stellar Classroom is Organization and Planning. Use these mini-episodes to start brainstorming and getting ideas flowing for what your classroom setup will be next year. Answer these 15…

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Episode 288: Choosing Data Methods From Your IEP Goals with Stephanie DeLussey 14:12

12M ago14:12

14:12

In this episode, Stephanie DeLussey breaks down selecting the right data collection method based on IEP goal criteria. This strategy revolves around a comprehensive understanding of each student's unique needs and learning style. Stephanie discusses the importance of aligning the method with the specific goal being addressed, considering factors su…

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Episode 287: Modeling Calm for De-Escalation with Kathryn Karpinski, BCBA 18:34

12M ago18:34

18:34

In this episode, BCBA Kathryn Karpinski breaks down a strategy for effective de-escalation. Modeling calm models the desired behavior, gently redirects unsafe behaviors, and gives the child self-regulating tools. Kathryn offers this as an alternative to planned ignoring which can lead to often dangerous extinction bursts. More from Kathryn: www.the…

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Episode 286: Teaching Learning Behaviors in the Inclusion Setting with Lori Fry, BCBA 15:52

12M ago15:52

15:52

In this episode, learn how you can use ABA principals to teach essential school learning behavior within the inclusion setting. Lori Fry joins the podcast to share her experiences teaching behaviors such as independently starting work, attending, asking for help, and modifying one’s work to help students be successful in a range of settings. Lori i…

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Episode 285: Digital Data Collection with Caitlin Beltran, BCBA 13:37

1y ago13:37

13:37

In this episode learn how to simplify and streamline your data collection process using Google Sheets. Caitlin Beltran joins the podcast to give an overview of why digital data collection is helpful, how to get started with this setup, and tips for staff training and organization. Caitlin is a BCBA and former special education teacher. She currentl…