Uniquely Human: The Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Respect Begins With the Language We Use Mar 19, 2021

Show notes

The language used in autism culture has a profound impact on perceptions of autistic people and family members. It can communicate respect, or cause mistrust. We discuss the importance of scrutinizing the language we use, and then recommend actions to make the language culture of autism more accurate and respectful, rather than judgmental.

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Nonspeakers Have a Lot to Say Mar 12, 2021

Show notes

One of the least understood, and most marginalized groups of autistic people are those who are non-speaking, or who have minimal or unreliable speech due to neurologically-based motor speech disorders. With advances in AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), involving both low and high tech approaches, nonspeakers voices are now being heard, and what they have to say is shattering erroneous stereotypes about those for whom speech is not their primary mode of communication. Harmful beliefs about how speech and behavior are accurate reflections of a person’s intelligence and social awareness are being dismantled. We are joined by Ian Nordling, a young autistic man who is a multi-modal communicator who shares his perspectives about how he has benefitted from Spelling to Communicate (S2C), and Elizabeth Vosseller, who developed (S2C), an approach being used increasingly by non- speakers.

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"Trust Must Be Earned": Parent-Professional Relationships Mar 05, 2021

Show notes

In the complex process of developing relationships, things can go so right in some situations and so wrong in others—right, when time spent together engenders trust and builds positive and collaborative relationships; wrong, when encounters create mistrust, suspicion, and even anger (typically for the parents, but sometimes for professionals as well). Autism is a passionate affair for all involved, and in this episode, Barry and Dave discuss some of the challenges as well as solutions for building trusting parent-professional relationships.

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Autism and the Complexities of Intersectionality with guest Morènike Giwa-Onaiwu, Ph.D Feb 27, 2021

Show notes

In this episode, we will explore the multi-dimensional nature of the autistic experience in individuals who also may have identity differences related to race, gender identity and ethnicity. Our guest, Dr. Morenikè Giwa-Onaiwu shares her expertise and knowledge as an educator, prolific author, and tireless advocate, as well as her personal experiences as an African American mother of autistic children.

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Interview with Carol Gray: The Queen of Social Stories Feb 19, 2021

Show notes

Carol Gray is one of the most respected and creative educators with decades of experience in supporting autistic individuals. Barry and Dave chat with Carol about her influential career and her philosophy about educating students on the autism spectrum. The purposes and the appropriate use of Social Stories, as well as how Social Stories have been misused are reviewed in a lively discussion.

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Challenging the Stigma of Autism Feb 12, 2021

Show notes

There remains a great deal of controversy and divisiveness around how autism is viewed. This has a direct impact on the stigma that historically has become associated with the word autism or ASD. Is autism a "disease" that needs to be cured, or is it a human condition, characterized by strengths and challenges, that is as much a part of a person as is their gender and racial identity? Is it something that a person has, or is it more about who a person is?

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Nobody's Normal Feb 06, 2021

Show notes

Barry and Dave are joined by Dr. Richard Grinker to discuss his new book, "Nobody's Normal," and how culture has created a stigma of mental illness.

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Autism and Building Trust Jan 29, 2021

Show notes

Barry and Dave discuss the process of building trust between autistic and neurotypical people. Barry shares 8 proven strategies to help clinicians, educators, and other professionals earn a trusting relationship with autistic people and their families.

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Honoring the Culture of Autism Jan 22, 2021

Show notes

Michael John Carley joins us to discuss the importance of respecting autism culture in school and at work.

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Autism and Personal Fulfillment with Dr. Temple Grandin Jan 08, 2021

Show notes

Dr. Temple Grandin joins us to share her perspective on setting oneself up for success in a lifelong journey of personal growth. David LaFrenz shares the impact his work has made on him, and he receives this episode’s Enthusiasm of the Week! Award.

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