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EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids — Kids & Family
EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

welcome to a parenting space actually designed for YOU! where you can get answers about navigating a life that includes autism.

I’m Dr. Tay, a licensed child psychologist specializing in autism and neuroaffirming care. I have supported 100s of autistic children and their families and have been in the autism field for over a decade.

on this podcast, we focus on supporting your autistic child AND your whole family, including you! every topic is on the table, and your questions (which you can submit through my social media) inspire the episodes created. I share some of my personal stories growing up with a brother who was diagnosed at 23 months of age as well as feature other families’ stories so you know you are not navigating this journey alone. this is a space for you to be SEEN. HEARD. SUPPORTED. and get reputable and reliable information about autism instead of searching Google endlessly for hours. I am so dang grateful that you are here.

***disclaimer: not clinical advice, for educational purposes only***

subscribe to this podcast by hitting the plus or follow button so you don’t miss an episode.

Copyright: © Copyright 2024 Dr. Taylor Day

Latest Episodes:

202 | a live coaching session on grief, acceptance, and trusting yourself as an autism parent Feb 04, 2026

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

in this special episode, Dr. Tay shares a live coaching session with Winter, a mom of a 6-year-old autistic boy. listeners are invited inside a real, unscripted coaching conversation — one that mirrors the questions, emotions, and uncertainty so many parents carry quietly.

together, Dr. Tay and Winter explore what it’s like to sit with grief and acceptance at the same time, to question whether current supports are actually helping, and to feel the pressure to “do enough” while also wanting space to breathe. Dr. Tay helps Winter slow things down, name what’s coming up beneath the urgency, and reflect on what alignment, confidence, and quality of life could look like for her family.

this episode offers a window into how parent coaching can help you:

feel less alone in the emotional weight of an autism diagnosis
untangle urgency from what truly matters right now
experiment with supports without shame or fear of “getting it wrong”
build confidence in your instincts as your child’s parent
reconnect with yourself while still showing up for your child

if you’ve ever wondered what parent coaching actually sounds like — or wished for a space to talk things through out loud with someone who truly gets it — this episode is for you.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 introduction and episode overview

00:06 meet winter and her journey

02:52 navigating early diagnosis and initial support

04:02 challenges, grief, and emotional struggles

11:57 finding the right support and community

20:30 navigating autism as a first-time parent

20:43 the pressure of early intervention

21:53 the impact of how diagnoses are delivered

23:04 support systems and clinical care

23:47 parenting with confidence and love

27:09 concerns about the future

33:33 advocating for disability needs in public spaces

37:25 building community and self-advocacy

39:54 closing reflections and resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ Connect with Winter @aspectrumfueledpurpose

⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey, with the option to add on a 1:1 coaching session like this

⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + other services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

201 | when an autism diagnosis brings more questions than answers Jan 30, 2026

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

if you’ve recently received an autism diagnosis — or you’re pretty sure one is coming — this episode is for you.

many parents expect to feel relief after a diagnosis. sometimes that happens briefly. but more often, things actually feel heavier, more confusing, and more urgent. in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down why that happens, names the “trap of urgency” so many families fall into, and explains what actually helps in this early post-diagnosis phase.

want more support? the You Got The Diagnosis. Now What? program was designed for you! a four-week, neurodiversity-affirming program designed to support families in the space between diagnosis and action — focused on clarity, self-trust, and sustainable next steps.

LEARN MORE HERE: https://drtay.thrivecart.com/you-got-the-diagnosis-now-what

CHAPTERS

00:00 navigating the autism diagnosis journey

02:26 understanding why diagnosis can create more questions

12:41 clarity over urgency: slowing down without falling behind

23:59 introducing support for families in the post-diagnosis phase

RESOURCES

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and other services

https://drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

200 | celebrating 200 episodes: values, visibility, and coming back after the pause Jan 29, 2026

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

this episode marks a big milestone — 200 episodes — and a very human return after an unplanned pause.

Dr. Tay shares openly about what led to stepping back, including grief, perfectionism, and the pressure she felt to make the “right” episode for this moment. from there, the conversation widens into something deeper: how personal values, neurodiversity-affirming care, and what’s happening in our country are deeply intertwined.

this is an episode about alignment — as a parent, as a clinician, and as a human — and why staying silent doesn’t feel like an option when your values are at stake.

CHAPTERS

00:00 return from hiatus and celebrating 200 episodes

05:48 navigating personal challenges, caregiving, and grief

12:19 the intersection of personal beliefs and professional practice

20:37 the importance of human connection in parenting

26:23 values, advocacy, and human rights

33:05 core values in clinical practice

36:38 affirming neurodivergence through collaboration

40:15 integrity, repair, and whole-family healing

44:00 living in alignment with your values

49:43 reflecting on privilege and responsibility in advocacy

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership: a space for questions, community, and neurodiversity-affirming guidance

https://drtaylorday.com/membership

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and current services

https://drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me >>

Instagram @the.dr.tay

TikTok @the.dr.tay

199 | should my autistic child do a social skills group? Nov 13, 2025

Show notes

this week’s episode was inspired directly by a diagnostic feedback session inside dr. tay’s clinical practice. one parent asked a question that so many others wonder:

“should i be teaching social skills to my autistic child… and if so, how?”

in this episode, dr. tay breaks down why traditional social skills approaches often miss the mark, how they can unintentionally promote masking, and what a neurodiversity-affirming approach looks like instead.

you’ll learn:

why “social skills” often = neurotypical norms
what actually helps autistic kids build authentic connection
practical ways to support social growth at home, without scripts or forcing
how to understand what your child needs based on their motivation, interests, and neurotype

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 introduction and episode inspiration

00:21 diagnostic feedback and recommendations

01:57 therapeutic approaches and parent coaching

04:34 addressing social skills in autistic children

05:52 neurodiversity affirming approaches

08:00 practical strategies and role-playing

12:04 real-life situations and empathy building

16:16 parental involvement and social skills groups

23:03 conclusion and next steps

RESOURCES

⚡️need more support navigating this? Join EVOLVE the membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space to ask YOUR questions.

⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services, including her small group therapy model, at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ keep learning

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

198 | the role of parents as co-regulators for autistic children with Lisa Candera Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in the autistic journey. Joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom and coach for parents of autistic children, they discuss the role of parents as primary co-regulators for their children as well as strategies for staying regulated, building self-trust, and supporting their children's behaviors. They also explore systemic issues, coping mechanisms, and the need for a holistic approach that includes listening to autistic voices. Despite the focus on parents, the core message underscores the importance of a balanced support system for the entire family unit.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:28 Lisa Candera's Background and Passion

00:45 The Role of Parents in Autism Support

01:28 Podcast Introduction and Disclaimer

02:30 Lisa's Journey as a Single Mom

05:25 Challenges and Early Diagnosis

06:48 Navigating Resources and Support Systems

08:27 The Importance of Parental Education

16:04 Understanding OCD and Autism

22:59 Coaching and Self-Regulation

28:21 Understanding the Distinctness of OCD

28:30 The Complexity of Compulsions

29:01 Parental Instincts and Fix-It Mode

29:31 The Illogical Nature of OCD

30:06 OCD and Autism: The Just Right Feeling

31:22 Building Acceptance in Parenting

32:22 The Psychological Definition of Acceptance

33:46 Behavioral Issues and Parental Pressure

35:05 Supporting Parents: Tips and Strategies

37:24 Validating Experiences Before Problem Solving

38:01 Common Challenges and Seeking Support

39:21 Navigating Grief and Acceptance

40:02 Ambiguous Grief and GOMO

41:17 Being the Safe Person and Self-Advocacy

44:31 Parental Regulation and Child's Behavior

46:36 Building a Well-Rounded Support Team

48:29 The Power of Tone and Voice

52:12 Conclusion and Resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ Continue learning from Lisa Candera at theautismmomcoach.com/ and @theautismmomcoach on Instagram and Facebook

⚡️ Download the Meltdown Action Plan

⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.

⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

197 | developing impulse control in autistic children Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses impulse control for autistic children and offers proactive strategies to develop this skill without inducing shame. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of a regulated state for teaching impulse control and using fun, engaging games like Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says. The episode also answers questions from parents, such as managing inappropriate comments and excessive affectionate behaviors.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:24 Inspiration Behind the Episode

01:30 Understanding Impulse Control in Autistic Children

03:02 Proactive Skill Building Strategies

03:53 Engaging Activities to Teach Impulse Control

06:29 Addressing Common Questions from Parents

15:36 Impulse Control vs. Other Behavioral Issues

17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.

⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ Continue learning + suggest topics for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

196 | understanding interoception and supporting body awareness in autistic kids with Kelly Mahler Oct 22, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the often overlooked yet crucial concept of interoception and its importance in supporting autistic children. Joined by guest Kelly Mahler, an experienced occupational therapist specializing in this area, they dive into what interoception is, how it impacts autistic children, and actionable strategies to improve interoceptive awareness. The conversation also touches on the significance of adult modeling, school-based interventions, and a comprehensive approach to sensory regulation. Additionally, they explore the connection between interoception and autistic burnout, providing valuable insights and resources for parents and educators.

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

02:04 Guest Introduction: Kelly Mahler

02:11 Kelly's Journey into Interoception

04:17 Understanding Interoception

08:57 Interoception in Autistic Individuals

14:44 Building Interoceptive Awareness in Kids

23:16 Challenges and Advocacy in Schools

25:25 Understanding Interoception and Compliance

26:01 Adult Modeling and Focus Area Experiments

28:59 Sequential Process: Body, Emotion, Action

32:18 Challenges in School-Based OT and Sensory Regulation

38:47 Autistic Burnout and Interoception

46:52 Resources and Final Thoughts

RESOURCES

⚡️ check out all of Kelly’s resources → www.kelly-mahler.com

⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.

⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

195 | perfectionism, over-accommodation, and finding the middle ground Oct 15, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

dr. tay dives deep into perfectionism — how it shows up in autism parenting, in clinical work, and even in content creation. she shares personal reflections, a powerful story from her group therapy model, and a reminder that perfectionism can hide behind our best intentions to help.

this episode explores:

the fine line between accommodation and over-accommodation
perfectionism as a form of rigidity and how it sneaks into parenting
learning to release shame and accept imperfection as part of growth

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 introduction: what perfectionism looks like in parenting

00:54 reflections from clinical practice and lived experience

01:33 perfectionism behind the scenes of podcasting and social media

02:36 when “doing it right” becomes doing too much

12:46 finding the balance between accommodation and over-accommodation

21:17 learning to release control and practice repair over perfection

25:15 a group reflection on perfectionism and shared growth

35:42 closing encouragement and ways to stay connected

RESOURCES

⚡️ join evolve: the membership — a space for parents to reflect, connect, and grow through their autism journey.

⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach and current clinical services at drtaylorday.com.

⚡️ continue learning from me and submit questions (they may be featured on a future episode!)

instagram → @the.dr.tay

tiktok → @the.dr.tay

194 | embracing humanity + connection in autism with jessie caraway of the if you know one project Oct 08, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

Dr. Tay sits down with Jessie Caraway, creator of the If You Know One Project, to talk about her family’s journey, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how the project grew out of a desire to build community and awareness.

They reflect on the long road to an autism diagnosis, reframing “high support needs,” and the importance of seeing each autistic child through a lens of humanity rather than fear or deficit. Jessie shares how her journey with her daughter, Eliza, inspired her to create the If You Know One Project — a space that celebrates individuality and connection through neurodiversity-affirming awareness, apparel, and storytelling.

Together, Dr. Tay and Jessie explore what it means to move forward with compassion, to hold complexity in parenting, and to remind families that every story — every one — matters.

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement

00:29 Host’s Background and Podcast Purpose

01:31 Guest Introduction and Family Background

02:01 Starting the If You Know One Project

03:29 Community Engagement and Resource Sharing

06:50 Challenges in the Diagnosis Journey

11:36 Navigating the Healthcare System

18:23 The If You Know One Project’s Mission and Future Goals

22:59 Navigating the Journey Together

23:22 Support for Families

24:04 Community and Connection

24:33 Understanding High Support Needs

25:22 The Value of Individuality

26:20 Perspective Shifts and Humanity

28:24 Building Trust and Communication

32:19 Sharing Stories and Advocacy

36:12 Encouragement for Parents

38:56 Final Thoughts and Resources

💛 RESOURCES

⚡️ Connect with Jessie Caraway + The If You Know One Project:

Instagram → @jess_ifyouknowone

Etsy Shop → If You Know One

⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey.

⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes:

Instagram → @the.dr.tay

TikTok → @the.dr.tay

193 | instagram live q&a replay: autism headlines, affirming supports, + the just one thing challenge Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇

this episode is a replay of my instagram live q+a, where we processed the recent press conference linking autism and tylenol. i shared reflections on research, stigma, and neurodiversity-affirming care, and answered parent questions in real time.

we covered the nuance of research, medication conversations, ableism and stigma, and most importantly — how parents can ground themselves and their families.

a special thank you to sam marion, lcsw (@sammarioncounseling) for moderating the live chat and helping to hold respectful space for this conversation.

THE JUST ONE THING CHALLENGE

toward the end of this episode, i introduce the just one thing challenge—a free 7-day practice designed to help parents slow down, ground themselves, and notice one small glimmer in the middle of daily overwhelm.

join the just one thing challenge starting monday, october 6th, 2025

– on instagram: follow @the.dr.tay and message JOTCHALLENGE

– not on instagram? sign up here

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 introduction + intent of the live

01:46 introducing sam marion

03:51 processing the press conference

06:20 what neurodiversity affirming care really means

07:50 dr. tay’s background + perspective

09:52 making sense of autism research

12:36 diving into parent questions

24:05 responding to the administration’s narrative

39:54 fda-approved medications + leucovorin discussion

41:51 understanding pda + affirming supports

44:15 debunking tylenol + autism myths

45:56 confronting stigma + ableism

48:58 concerns about government policies

51:54 supporting autistic kids + families

01:10:51 the just one thing challenge

01:15:34 closing reflections + resources

RESOURCES

⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to find community + support in your parenting journey

⚡️ learn more about dr. tay's whole family approach + current clinical services offered at drtaylorday.com

⚡️ continue learning from me + submit questions that may be featured on a future episode >>

instagram @the.dr.tay

tiktok @the.dr.tay

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