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In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Eric Chessen, founder of Autism Fitness, to explore the long-term importance of physical health for autistic individuals.

Eric shares his journey from personal trainer to autism fitness pioneer, offering insights into motivation, movement planning, and individualized training for children and adults on the spectrum.

With practical advice, personal stories, and thoughtful strategies, this episode empowers dads to prioritize their child's physical health—regardless of age or verbal ability. From behavior-specific praise to handling meltdowns in the gym, Eric delivers tools and encouragement for every autism dad.

TOPICS:

• Why fitness is a lifelong priority for children and adults with autism
• How behavior science and fitness training intersect in Autism Fitness
• Strategies for motivation, including choice and behavior-specific praise
• Adapting exercise programs to individual needs and communication styles
• The importance of consistency, reinforcement, and celebrating small wins
• Managing meltdowns and behavior issues in fitness sessions
• How fitness translates into confidence and independence over time

GUEST LINKS:
Eric Chessen – Autism Fitness: https://www.autismfitness.com/

ADVERTISING LINKS:
Dads In Autismland Membership: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES:

• "There’s no such thing as an autism-specific exercise—it’s all about the implementation."
• "Choice and behavior-specific praise
• are my biggest coaching go-tos."
• "Fitness is an investment—compound interest over time builds capability and confidence."
• "I’ve seen athletes go from unable to squat to dominating ninja courses."
• "Even if they can’t communicate it, they often appreciate the structure and movement."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes fellow autism dad Mark Kendall for a heartfelt conversation about navigating public life with children on the autism spectrum.

Drawing from personal experiences with his 22-year-old nonverbal daughter, Mark Kendall opens up about the emotional and logistical challenges dads face—from handling staring strangers to managing safety in unpredictable situations.

Together, they share practical tips, honest stories, and a strong message of encouragement: you can go out, you can be confident, and you are your child’s best advocate. Whether you’re wrestling with your first family outing or planning a vacation with accommodations, this episode offers relatable support and empowering advice for autism dads everywhere.

TOPICS

• The role of autism dads as public advocates and "ambassadors"
• Tips for preparing outings with autistic children, including safety bags and routines
• How public expectations change as autistic kids become adults
• Strategies for handling unwanted attention and educating others
• Navigating travel, vacations, and community inclusion with autistic children
• Safety protocols, water risks, and long-term planning
• Emotional insights on adapting to autism parenting over time

ADVERTISING LINKS

Dads in Autismland Membership - The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

1. “You didn’t sign up to be an ambassador for autism—but you are one.”
2. “Dads need to feel confident bringing their kids into public spaces.”
3. “Everybody has their time limits—neurotypical or not.”
4. “Sometimes pulling the ripcord is the best decision for everyone.”
5. “If you're not prepared, you’re not protecting—so have a plan.”

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Allan Young, founder of Autism Acres, a purpose-built sanctuary for children with autism and other special needs.

Allan shares his powerful journey from military service to creating a five-acre haven in Rochester, Washington for families like his own—including his three sons on the spectrum and a foster daughter with Down syndrome.

Listeners will learn about the hands-on life skills training Allan offers at home, the carefully designed features of Autism Acres (from elopement-safe fencing to sensory swings), and how he and his wife are fostering a safe, welcoming community grounded in compassion and faith. It’s an inspiring story of resilience, resourcefulness, and redefining support for families navigating autism.

TOPICS

• The origins and mission of Autism Acres in Washington
• Parenting multiple children on the autism spectrum and one with Down syndrome
• Designing a safe, sensory-friendly environment for children with special needs
• Transitioning from military life to full-time caregiving and homeschooling
• Building community through faith-based service without preaching
• Personal wellness and stress management strategies for autism dads
• The importance of structured flexibility in daily routines

GUEST LINKS

Allan Young – Autism Acres: https://autismacres.org

ADVERTISING LINKS

Dads In Autismland Membership – The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

“My son now has friends—it’s awesome. We needed this just as much as the families we’re trying to help.”

“We designed everything at Autism Acres with safety in mind—because eloping isn’t just a possibility, it’s a reality for a lot of us.”

“Caretaking is hard. Being alone in the house is hard. Coming home from work is hard. That’s why me and my wife make sure each other gets a break.”

“We didn’t want a structure so rigid it became a problem—we wanted routines that help our kids feel secure without trapping them in them.”

“We’re not a Christian organization—we’re an organization run by Christians. We’re not here to preach, we’re here to serve.”

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes guest Matt Anderton, father of three-year-old Beckett, who was diagnosed with autism at just 13 months old.

Matt shares the emotional and practical aspects of their early diagnosis journey, the critical role nutrition and therapy have played, and his life-altering decision to leave a demanding job to become a full-time caregiver.

From the challenges of sleep deprivation to the triumph of Beckett saying his ABCs again, Matt's story is a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the power of community. This candid conversation offers insight, empathy, and encouragement for every father navigating life on the autism spectrum.

TOPICS:

• The impact of early autism diagnosis and the rapid shift in developmental behavior
• How functional nutrition and supplements supported Beckett’s therapy progress
• The life-changing decision to leave a full-time job for full-time caregiving
• The daily realities of meltdowns, dietary sensitivities, and sleep disruption
• Tools and tips for sensory integration and public acclimation
• Building a supportive care network and finding the right professionals
• The emotional and relational toll — and strength — found in autism parenting

GUEST LINKS:

Spencer Dupre, Functional Medicine Practitioner: https://www.empowerchirotx.com/team

ADVERTISING LINKS:

Dads In Autismland Membership - The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

QUOTES

"We got two choices: put him on a prescription for life, or figure this out."

"It was like he wasn’t there—he went from talking to total silence. We thought he went deaf."

"I left my 70-hour-a-week job to be a full-time caregiver. We changed our whole life for our son."

"Sometimes you feel alone, and then someone sponsors your son for a speech camp, and you just break down."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In this powerful episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse welcomes Graeme Wright—a father, entrepreneur, and recovery coach—who shares an inspiring, faith-driven journey through adoption, autism, addiction, and personal transformation.

Graeme opens up about adopting two children from China, one of whom was later diagnosed with autism, and how this experience unearthed hidden wounds from his past. From relapsing into addiction to rebuilding his capacity to love and lead, Graeme shares how faith, community, and vulnerability reshaped his understanding of fatherhood.

With raw honesty, he explores the spiritual and emotional depths of raising a child on the spectrum while advocating for other fathers to break isolation and seek healing. Whether you’re a dad in crisis or one seeking connection, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and hope.

TOPICS:

• Adopting two children from China and discovering an unexpected autism diagnosis
• How faith and scripture helped reshape Graeme’s response to adversity
• Why secure attachment is critical for children, especially those with trauma
• The importance of community and male vulnerability in healing
• Lessons from operating a business that employed autistic adults
• Practical insights for dads learning to lead through love, not control

GUEST LINKS:

Graeme Wright – 837 Recovery and Coaching: https://837recovery.com

ADVERTISING LINKS:

The Pathfinder Collective Autism Dad Group: https://dadsinautismland.com/pathfinder

QUOTES

"Adoption didn’t just change my family—it revealed how selfish I really was. God used my son to break that in me."

"When life is all about you, you can’t see God’s plan. But when it becomes about His story, everything starts to make sense."

"You're not alone. Get out of the dark room, step into the light, and let other men surround you with love and truth."

"My son’s autism didn’t ruin my life—it refined it. I wouldn’t change anything, because through him, God brought me closer to who I’m supposed to be."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In this episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with entrepreneur and father of six Jason Vance, whose 21-year-old son is on the autism spectrum.

Jason shares the deeply personal and practical journey of raising a child initially diagnosed as moderately to severely autistic—who now lives independently with his grandparents and contributes daily to their small farm.

They discuss parenting philosophies, managing family dynamics with five daughters, the importance of prioritizing marriage amidst challenges, and the power of maintaining long-term dreams even when life detours.

Jason’s core belief in “raising healthy adults” shapes his family’s values and resilience. From teaching life skills to coping with public meltdowns, this episode offers insight, relatability, and inspiration for autism dads everywhere.

TOPICS
- Transitioning from diagnosis to independence in autism parenting
- The philosophy of “raising healthy adults” despite special needs
- Balancing the demands of a large family with a child on the spectrum
- Coping with public meltdowns, social judgment, and shifting expectations
- Prioritizing marriage and long-term dreams as the foundation for family resilience
- The emotional journey of mourning “normal” and embracing a new reality
- Jason’s practical tips for building independence in autistic children

ADVERTISING LINKS
The Pathfinder Collective: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

SUBSCRIBE NOW
https://dadsinautismland.com/subscribe/

QUOTES
"Our underlying philosophy sort of goal for the kids is raising healthy adults."

"We just always believed for more, right? That he could have a normal life."

"You have to mourn normal."

"We literally cooked a separate meal for him every day for his entire life."

"It was really hard letting him go. It's like, yes, you're 21, but you're probably 11 or 12 as far as like, you know, your ability and your mind."

ℹ️ Note: Every autistic person's journey is unique. This video shares one family's experience of finding success through focusing on interests and abilities rather than limitations. Always consult with appropriate professionals when developing employment plans.

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In the season finale of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse reflects on the journey so far—what inspired the podcast, the powerful stories shared, and what lies ahead in Season Two.

With honesty and heart, Mark opens up about his personal experiences raising a son with severe autism, the emotional toll many fathers face, and the need for authentic male support.

He calls on fellow autism dads to embrace connection, vulnerability, and growth. From the importance of self-care to the sobering realities of fatherhood in the autism world, this episode is both a heartfelt goodbye to

Season One and a bold invitation to join the next chapter. Tune in to hear what’s next for the Dads in Autismland community—including the launch of the Pathfinder Collective membership group and bi-monthly workshops.

TOPICS
- The origin story of Dads in Autismland and its mission
- Why autism fathers often feel alone—and how this podcast aims to change that
- Personal insights from raising a son with severe autism
- The dangerous stigma around men seeking support and self-care
- The launch of the Pathfinder Collective: a private, judgment-free space for autism dads
- How exposure and community can change society’s understanding of autism
- A call to action for advocacy, communication, and fatherhood transformation

SUBSCRIBE NOW at https://dadsinautismland.com/subscribe/

QUOTES
"Being tough doesn’t mean staying silent. It means stepping up, speaking out, and building something better—for us and our kids."

"If your battery’s drained, everything suffers. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential fatherhood."

"Autism fatherhood isn’t just about what we give—it’s about what we learn. My son taught me empathy, patience, and what real strength looks like."

"There’s no standard for how people should live. The more we share our reality, the safer and more supported our kids will be."

"This podcast started because I wondered if there were other dads like me out there—and now I know we’re not alone."

ADVERTISING LINKS
The Pathfinder Collective Dads In Autismland Membership Group: https://dadsinautismland.com/dads-in-autismland-membership-the-pathfinder-collective/

Mountains We Climb T-Shirt: https://dadsinautismland.com/mountains-we-climb-trailblazer-series-first-edition/

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On this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with autism dad and founder of The Spectrum Hope Fund, Tim Huck.

The two dive deep into the emotional and financial realities of raising a child on the spectrum—from the early days of diagnosis, ABA therapy, and mounting expenses, to losing friendships and navigating the complexities of fatherhood.

Tim shares how his own challenges inspired him to start a nonprofit that helps other families pay for life-changing ABA therapy.

With candid storytelling and raw honesty, this episode shines a light on the often-overlooked emotional and financial toll autism parenting can take—and how dads are stepping up to support each other.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to raise a child with autism and still show up as a dad, partner, and provider, this episode delivers insight, solidarity, and most of all—hope.

TOPICS

• The emotional toll and isolation of autism parenting—and why dad support matters
• Tim Huck’s personal journey through early autism diagnosis and ABA therapy
• The financial struggle of affording intensive autism care and how families cope
• Founding The Spectrum Hope Fund to support other autism families
• Why ABA therapy early intervention can be transformative
• Parenting multiple children while navigating the needs of a child on the spectrum
• Creating inclusive spaces for autistic kids and building supportive community networks

QUOTES

"There’s no office you go to when you get the diagnosis. No roadmap. You just start Googling and hope you land somewhere helpful."

"We paid $35,000 over three years for ABA therapy because we knew our son needed it. We trusted the process—and scraped by to make it happen."

"There are resources for autistic kids—but what about the parents? What about us dads?"

"When my son was diagnosed, I felt like I was trying to learn a whole new world—but no one was handing me a manual."

"Being a dad to a kid on the spectrum? It’s lonely sometimes. But if we don’t talk about it, who will?"

DISCLAIMER

Every child's autism journey is unique. This video shares one family's personal experience and is meant for informational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice.

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