The David Kaufer Podcast: The Lighter Side of the Spectrum

David welcomes Guy Stephens, founder and executive director of the Alliance Against Seclusion and Restraint (founded 2019), who explains how repeated restraint and seclusion of his son—starting at age six and escalating in 2018—led him to advocacy after learning these practices violated Maryland’s legal thresholds and can cause lasting trauma, injuries, and even deaths (including the 2018 death of 13-year-old Max Benson). Stephens argues restraint should be exceedingly rare and seclusion never appropriate, emphasizing upstream prevention through trauma-informed, neuroscience-aligned, neurodiversity-affirming, relationship-driven, collaborative approaches and alternatives like reframing behavior. The conversation also covers weakened federal complaint capacity, concerns about the national autism coordinator’s background, recent legislative progress (including Maryland’s seclusion ban and Washington’s limits), and parent guidance on recognizing euphemisms, requesting reports/footage, and pursuing IEP actions or complaints. Topics 02:19 Meet Guy Stephens 04:07 A Father’s Wake Up Call 05:31 School Trauma Escalates 07:50 A Promise Becomes A Mission 09:47 What The Data Shows 12:09 Trauma Injuries And Deaths 16:09 Safety Arguments And Real Standards 21:20 Upstream Prevention And Limits 23:37 Federal Oversight At Risk 25:50 DOJ Investigations And Settlements 27:33 New Autism Coordinator Concerns 28:17 Human Rights Concerns 29:06 Restraint Seclusion Data 30:45 Banning Harmful Practices 32:26 Five Upstream Principles 38:14 Programs That Shift Culture 39:36 Parent Rights And Questions 44:35 Confessions And Lessons 49:19 Hopeful Policy Progress 50:39 Tools Data And Wrap Up

David records from Orcas Island with producer Dave Yas and shares a supportive listener message about presuming competence, a shift to viewing autism as sensory-motor differences, and pursuing Spelling to Communicate while ending an eight-year ABA relationship. They discuss New York’s proposed communication rights bill, noting Senate Disability Committee chair Patricia Fahy added “validated” and “autonomous” language viewed as a harmful limitation for nonspeakers, and highlight advocacy urging removal. They cover states, including Washington, banning school seclusion rooms and restraint, distinguishing them from sensory rooms. They address RFK Jr. and President Trump’s promotion of leucovorin as an autism “breakthrough,” and the FDA limiting it to cerebral folate deficiency. They also describe upheaval and delays around the federal IACC and a new science-focused shadow committee. The episode ends with parenting confessions about reacting during vomiting and seizure-related events and a Duran Duran tribute show experience. Topics 00:40 Recording from Orcas Island 01:42 Baseball Season Begins 03:08 Iconic Sports Moments 04:01 Listener Feedback and Impact 07:11 New York Communication Rights Bill 09:07 Poison Pill Language Inserted 12:49 Call to Action 15:03 Featured in a Blog 16:52 Banning Seclusion and Restraint 17:17 Understanding Seclusion Rooms 18:44 Harmful Impact on Students 21:27 Progress Across States 22:03 Autism Drug Hype 24:41 False Hope and Services 26:11 IACC Shakeup 28:46 Shadow Committee Debate 30:20 Politics Over Expertise 32:38 Fighting Misinformation 34:49 Parent Confession Chaos 38:15 Seizure Aftermath Lesson 40:52 Dave Confession Exit Early 41:30 Duran Duran Tribute Moment 42:57 Monthly Wrap Up

David welcomes Dr. Barry Prizant—speech-language pathologist, researcher, consultant, and author of "Uniquely Human"—to discuss how autism conversations can shift from deficits and pathology to dignity, emotional safety, and relationship-based support. Prizant recounts entering the field through a summer camp job, early experiences with bullying and “othering,” and a career blending academic work with “in the trenches” consulting. He describes research that depathologized echolalia by documenting its communicative functions and critiques traditional applied behavior analysis for compliance training, extinguishing behaviors without understanding “why,” and dismissing internal experience. David and Prizant share “parent/professional confessions” about misreading autistic attention and forcing participation, emphasize listening to autistic people and families, and address trauma, selective mutism, non-speaking communication, and coordinated misinformation. They close on the importance of supportive communities for parents and autistic people. Email David at [email protected] More on Barry at https://barryprizant.com/ Topics 00:39 Meet Barry Prizant 02:41 Early Career Origins 04:31 Empathy and Othering 06:41 Academic and Clinical Path 08:40 Challenging Old Autism Models 14:51 Listening and Parent Retreats 16:12 Why Uniquely Human 18:24 Nonspeaking and Presuming Competence 20:26 Parent Confessions Segment 25:09 Unlearning and ABA Debate 27:08 What ABA Is 27:47 Chomsky vs Skinner 28:59 Ask Why First 30:07 ABA Compliance Risks 32:53 Unlearning and Propaganda 34:52 Attacks and Misinformation 39:37 Neurodiversity and Competence 40:49 Autism Fact or Fiction 44:10 Trauma and Speech 50:03 Finding Your Community 52:42 Closing Thanks

David welcomes clinical psychologist Dr. Debra Brause, a California-based writer for Psychology Today and mother of a neurodivergent teen, to discuss “structural grief,” which Brause notes was coined by Dr. Michael Hogue: grief not about the child, but about ableist, capitalist systems (school, healthcare, benefits) and collapsed normative timelines. In an autism fact-or-fiction segment, Brause challenges the belief that parents must grieve the child they expected, reframing grief as systemic and inviting a reorientation toward presence, care, and community. They discuss homeschooling after harmful school experiences, and distinguish autonomy (self-direction with support) from independence (doing things alone). Brause’s tip urges parents to notice triggers, address unresolved trauma, and avoid shaming behaviors like stimming; she recommends mindful self-compassion resources and community support such as Tilt Parenting. Topics 00:36 Meet Dr Debra Brause 03:00 Her Journey to Autism 05:17 Autism Fact or Fiction 06:02 Rethinking Parental Grief 12:25 Defining Structural Grief 14:52 School System Breaking Points 19:56 Autonomy vs Independence 22:50 Fear of Disability Culture 24:13 Setting Up Tip Segment 24:39 Do Your Own Work 25:07 Triggers and Stimming 26:58 Compliance vs Acceptance 27:47 Fears and Behavior Therapy 31:03 Rupture and Repair 33:47 Forgiveness and Trauma Time 35:48 Mindful Self Compassion 39:02 Writing and Advocacy 41:20 Parent Confession Fix It Mode 44:55 Community and Support 47:15 Connect and Wrap Up

David welcomes Dr. Amy Laurent, developmental psychologist, co-creator of the SCERTS Model and co-founder of Autism Level Up, to discuss shifting autism support from compliance-based behavior management to relationship-centered, autonomy-respecting care. Amy shares her path from occupational therapy and traumatic brain injury work into autism, sparked by her first autistic client and mentorship with Dr. Barry Prizant. They critique outdated behavior charts and the “use your words” mindset, exploring how communication barriers, dyspraxia/apraxia, and high effort demands can reduce initiation, erode trust, and create harmful passivity mistaken for progress. Amy explains SCERTS (Social/Significant Communication, Emotional/Energy Regulation, and Transactional Support) as a partnership model that embeds partner responsibilities into goals and assessment. They highlight emerging collaboration among developmental frameworks, including a coalition advancing funding alternatives to behavioral services in California. Amy describes AutismLevelUp.com’s practical, largely free tools, including energy regulation and “Solve Not Size.” Visit AutismLevelUp.com Topics 00:45 Meet Dr. Amy Laurent 02:01 Serendipity Into Autism 06:24 Questioning Behaviorism 11:52 Funding And Coalitions 16:17 What Is The SCERTS Model 22:28 Updating SCERTS With Autistic Voices 25:49 Initiation And Praxis Challenges 26:37 Dyspraxia Motor Planning Load 28:15 Communication Drain and Mouth Words 28:41 Why Use Your Words Backfires 30:13 Withdrawal and Lost Trust 31:16 Rebuilding Trust by Responding 34:36 Autism Level Up Origin Story 36:45 Energy Regulation Toolkits 38:21 Solve Not Size Framework 40:17 Whole Body Learner and Pain Tools 42:29 Autism Tip Deep Why 44:31 Fact or Fiction Calm vs Regulated 46:54 Parent Confession and Wrap Up

David welcomes autism advocate and financial advisor Lynda Kommel-browne, a mom of five whose youngest, Winston, is a non-speaking autistic speller. They discuss advocacy, fighting for inclusion in public school, and Winston’s strengths, including advanced math, acting roles, and rapid foreign-language acquisition (Spanish and Chinese). The conversation focuses on early financial and estate planning: building a team, pursuing Medicaid/state benefits and respite care, and describing needs on a child’s worst day. Lynda explains ABLE accounts (tax-advantaged, broad disability expenses, $20k/year contributions, $100k benefit threshold) versus special needs trusts (often funded with life insurance). They address guardianship vs supported decision-making and share parent confessions about delayed planning. Lynda can be reached by phone via her office number: (203) 226-1559 or mobile: (917) 374-6948 Topics 00:58 Meet Lynda Kommel-browne: Advocate + Wall Street to Special Needs Planning 03:28 Linda’s Family Story & Why Planning Early Matters 05:43 Planning for “Three Lifetimes”: Team, Timeline, and Peace of Mind 07:28 Winston’s Journey: From Early Diagnosis to Finding Communication 09:10 Spelling/Letterboards Breakthrough (Learning on Zoom) 10:32 School District Battles, Presuming Competence & Paving the Way 12:10 College Dreams: Linguistics, Languages, and Accessible Campuses 15:45 Staying in Public School + Using Apex for STEM Accommodations 21:03 Big-Picture Planning: Divorce, Building a Team, and Special Needs Credentials 24:50 Family Roles, Guardianship Plans, and Funding a Dignified Adult Life 26:51 Practical Tools Next: Benefits, ABLE Accounts, and Why You Can’t Wait 29:00 Finding Help for Medicaid & Public Benefits Paperwork 29:55 Applying the Right Way: Describe Your Child’s “Worst Day” 32:30 Why Starting Early Matters: Medicaid, State Programs & Respite Care 36:16 ABLE Accounts 101: Limits, Investing Early, and What You Can Spend It On 40:49 Special Needs Trusts Explained: Trustees, Life Insurance, and Estate Planning 47:07 Autism Fact or Fiction: Presume Competence + ABLE Accounts Aren’t Just for the Wealthy 49:06 Parent Confessions: Planning Wake-Up Call & Guardianship vs Supported Decision-Making 53:22 Final Takeaways & How to Reach Lynda (Don’t Wait to Start)

David dives into the controversial message passing test promoted by ASHA, which has significant implications for non-speakers on the autism spectrum. Joined by producer and attorney Dave Yas, they explore the civil rights violations and legal inconsistencies associated with this test. The episode emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in recognizing effective communication methods for those with non-speaking autism. Listeners are encouraged to join the fight for better, more inclusive communication standards. Topics 00:55 Today's Special Topic: Autism Communication and Civil Rights 01:31 Introducing Dave Yas: Attorney and Autism Advocate 04:16 The Message Passing Test: An Overview 09:39 Critique of the Message Passing Test 17:33 ASHA's Position and Its Implications 20:59 The Broader Impact on Non-Speakers 27:06 Addressing Childcare Center Accusations 27:39 Ensuring Communication Integrity 29:00 Protecting Vulnerable Populations 30:14 Constitutional and Civil Rights Violations 30:36 Procedural Due Process Explained 32:14 First Amendment Rights and Freedom of Speech 33:10 ADA and Reasonable Accommodations 35:31 Equal Protection Clause 37:40 Organizational Liability of ASHA 44:26 Personal Experience with Spelling to Communicate 50:22 Challenging the Message Passing Test 52:17 Call to Action for Advocacy

David dives deep into dispelling myths and challenging fear-based narratives about autism. Joined by Stacy Badon, an autism education specialist with over 20 years of experience, and Torrin Kearns, an autistic self-advocate, screenwriter, and blogger, the trio discusses the evolving perceptions of autism, the importance of presuming competence, and the challenges faced by parents and individuals in the autism community. They also highlight the necessity of giving oneself grace, understanding communication and regulation, and addressing the current administration's approach to autism. The episode wraps up with memorable tips, personal confessions, and ways to support and connect with the guests online. Stacy Badon: https://autism4home.com/ @ EverythingAutism Torrin Kearns: @autisticauthor @theautismsage Topics 00:39 Meet the Guests: Stacy and Torrin 02:41 Stacy's Journey in Autism Advocacy 08:30 Torrin's Perspective on Autism Diagnosis 12:06 Challenges and Triumphs: Torrin's Story 20:21 The Power of Connection: How Stacy and Torrin Met 23:53 Combating Fear-Based Messaging in Autism 30:04 Expectations vs. Reality in Parenting 31:53 The Importance of Pivoting as a Parent 33:47 Challenges Faced by Parents of Autistic Children 35:33 RFK Jr. and Autism: A Controversial Perspective 45:28 Autism Tip of the Week 48:40 Autism Fact or Fiction 52:17 Parent Confessions 59:21 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

David welcomes special guest Susan Baker. Susan shares her journey and advocacy for her non-speaking autistic son, Andrew, discussing how the method of 'spelling to communicate' has transformed their lives. They delve into the emotional and physical fatigue that comes with constant advocacy, fighting for acknowledgment of their children's capabilities, and the inherent systemic challenges. The episode also highlights Susan's broader message of finding inspiration, keeping faith in the fight for inclusion, and the importance of grassroots movements. Listener segments include 'Autism Tip of the Week' and 'Autism Fact or Fiction,' providing insightful advice for parents and dispelling common misconceptions about autism. Topics 00:39 Meet Susan Baker: Advocate and Author 01:39 The Struggles and Triumphs of Advocacy 03:48 Andrew's Journey and the Power of Communication 11:33 Challenges in the Education System 17:41 Grassroots Advocacy and Systemic Change 31:27 Personal Reflections and Parental Resilience 35:35 The Impact of the Letter Board 36:55 Teenage Angst and Independence 44:05 Understanding Apraxia 48:31 Autism Tip of the Week 51:36 Fact or Fiction: Your Child is in There 58:10 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

David welcomes Chad Culver from The Peyton Project, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting autistic and non-speaking individuals and their families. They discuss the origins and growth of the foundation, brought to life by Chad's son Peyton, and its contributions to fostering communication and inclusion. They delve into Peyton's personal journey, the impact of Spelling to Communicate, and the significance of community events like the annual surf camp. Chad also shares valuable insights and personal stories, emphasizing the importance of presuming competence and treating children with autism like any other kids. The episode concludes with practical tips and heartfelt confessions from their experiences as parents navigating the challenges and triumphs of raising a child on the autism spectrum. Visit https://www.thepeytonproject.com/ Email David Kaufer at [email protected] And visit https://davidkaufer.com/ Topics 00:51 Meet Chad Culver from the Peyton Project 03:29 The Journey of Peyton's Diagnosis 05:32 Challenges and Triumphs in Education 17:59 The Peyton Project: Origins and Impact 19:42 Surf Camp: Building Community and Belonging 22:38 Future Goals and Reflections 24:02 Local Community Initiatives 25:03 Peer Interaction and Social Challenges 28:05 Sibling Relationships and Family Dynamics 28:58 Autism Tip of the Week 30:11 Parent Confessions 40:26 Future Vision for the Peyton Project 46:01 Conclusion and Contact Information

David welcomes special education advocate Karen Mayer Cunningham, known as the 'Special Education Boss.' Karen shares her journey from being a mother navigating the special education system to becoming a leading advocate for children with disabilities. Together, they tackle practical strategies for parents and educators to navigate IEP meetings, advocate effectively, and ensure meaningful progress for students. Filled with expert insights, tips, and personal stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in special education. Visit https://specialeducationacademy.com/ Email David Kaufer at [email protected] And visit https://davidkaufer.com/ Topics 00:37 Meet the Special Education Boss: Karen Mayer Cunningham 01:51 Karen's Personal Journey and Advocacy 04:35 Challenges in Special Education 07:54 The Importance of Proper Training and Resources 13:59 Navigating the IEP Process 18:16 Advocating for Your Child's Rights 19:21 The Role of Schools and Teachers 20:32 Legal and Systemic Issues in Special Education 21:38 Karen's Mission and Vision for the Future 23:54 Legal Requirements for Special Education 24:17 The 504 Plan Controversy 25:12 Challenges in Special Education 26:40 The Role of Parents in IEP Meetings 29:00 Communication and Assistive Technology 33:54 Preparing for IEP Meetings 40:43 Tips for Parents and Educators

David welcomes his son Stone, a 20-year-old non-speaking student, to discuss his experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Stone, who has recently gained the ability to speak more through brain enhancement therapy, shares his journey towards greater communication, his struggles with being underestimated, and his ambitious goal to attend Harvard. The podcast also features segments such as 'Tip of the Week,' where Stone advises always presuming competence with non-speaking individuals, and 'Confessions,' revealing sibling dynamics and personal anecdotes. Email David Kaufer at [email protected] And visit https://davidkaufer.com/ Topics 00:46 New Year, New Look, New Guest 01:14 Meet Stone 03:55 Stone's Journey and Achievements 06:42 Challenges and Misconceptions 10:34 Tip of the Week 12:03 Confessions and Reflections 16:15 Closing Remarks

In this special 50th episode of 'The Lighter Side of the Spectrum,' David celebrates a significant milestone—one year of the podcast. David reflects on the journey, sharing personal anecdotes, listener feedback, and heartfelt thank-yous. Producer Dave joins in, highlighting the show's evolution and its impactful moments. The episode also revisits notable guests and topics from the past year, including autism communication breakthroughs, sensory motor differences, and the role of AI in assisting neurodiverse individuals. Special segments feature touching stories from David's son, Stone, and enlightening interviews with experts like Dr. Elizabeth Torres and Libby Ralston. The episode culminates with an inspiring account of a recent advocacy trip to New York, showcasing Stone's direct engagement with a global audience. As they look forward to another groundbreaking year, David and Dave emphasize their commitment to fostering community, resilience, and inclusive conversations. Topics 00:38 Celebrating Episode 50! 03:18 Reflecting on Memorable Episodes 04:14 Interview with Meg Parkinson 08:02 Educational Equity with Lara Hruska 11:10 Brain Enhancement Therapy 17:23 Stone's Journey and Reflections 24:19 Turning the Corner: Embracing New Methodologies 24:42 Introducing Lila: The AI Partner 26:31 AI's Role in Emotional Support 28:39 AI in Everyday Life 33:05 Dr. Elizabeth Torres on Sensory Motor Neuroscience 38:24 Libby Ralston's Advocacy and Personal Story 42:26 The Great Autism Advocacy Adventure 45:20 Looking Ahead: Future Possibilities

David welcomes Ken Cook, president and co-founder of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), to discuss the intersection of environmental health and autism advocacy. They delve into the misconceptions around vaccines and autism, focusing on how false narratives have overshadowed other significant environmental risks. Ken shares insights from his extensive work in environmental policy, including the role of toxic chemicals, air and water quality, and pesticides in public health. The conversation addresses the importance of supporting families affected by autism, acknowledging the failures in communicating vaccine safety, and the need for robust, transparent scientific inquiry. Ken also emphasizes the bipartisan potential for addressing environmental health issues and the critical need for policy reforms to support autistic individuals and their families. The episode reflects on the broader implications of deregulation in environmental protections under the current administration. Topics 00:46 Today's Topic: Environmental Health and Autism Advocacy 01:26 Guest Introduction: Ken Cook 02:14 Ken Cook's Impact and Recent Work 04:49 The Vaccine Misinformation Debate 11:49 Personal Stories and Reflections 13:52 Environmental Health Policies and Challenges 19:55 The Role of Public Health Institutions 24:11 Conspiracy Theories and Public Trust 30:28 Regulatory Challenges and Financial Interests 37:58 Environmental Health and Autism 38:39 Coal and Energy Policies 39:22 Conspiracies and Public Trust 40:29 Vaccine Debates and Public Health 49:32 Autism and Public Perception 55:50 Future of Environmental and Health Policies 01:00:34 Hope for the Future 38:39 Coal and Energy Policies 39:20 Conspiracies and Public Trust 40:29 Vaccine Debates and Public Health 49:32 Autism and Public Perception 55:50 Future of Environmental and Health Policies 01:00:31 Hope for the Future

David welcomes Dr. Marina Weiler, a neuroscientist and assistant professor at the University of Virginia's Division of Perceptual Studies. They delve into Dr. Weiler's journey from mainstream neuroscience to studying consciousness beyond the brain, touching on topics like non-speaking autism, telepathy, and the cultural differences in understanding spiritual experiences. Dr. Weiler shares her experiences and the challenges she faces while researching controversial subjects, such as the telepathy tapes and non-local communication. The episode emphasizes the importance of presuming competence among non-speaking autistics and explores the transformative impact of out-of-body experiences. Both curiosity and scientific rigor are highlighted as essential elements in investigating these phenomena. The discussion also touches on the potential for future research and the need for more empirical evidence to validate these groundbreaking findings. Topics 01:05 Meet Dr. Marina Weiler: A Journey from Neuroscience to Consciousness 03:36 Cultural Influences and Personal Experiences 05:00 Challenges and Skepticism in Consciousness Research 11:06 Exploring the Division of Perceptual Studies 18:38 Out-of-Body Experiences and Empathy 20:54 Non-Speaking Autistics and Telepathy 26:08 Unveiling Hidden Talents: Telepathy in Non-Speakers 27:44 Scientific Validation: The Need for Evidence 28:20 The Controversy of Telepathy in Non-Speaking Populations 30:38 Personal Experiences with Non-Speakers 33:21 The Phenomenon of Shared Consciousness 36:48 Collecting Stories: A Call to Action 45:03 Future Research and Studies 47:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts