All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

In this episode, Caroline Maguire explores the nuances of friendship through a neurodivergent lens, drawing from her book Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults. She shares personal insights on social challenges, the difference between belonging and popularity, and the impact of masking and mismatched communication styles. Caroline introduces her “Three P’s” of friendship—Proximity, Practice, and Participation—as a framework for building meaningful connections, while also unpacking how friendships can evolve, from seasonal to lifelong. This conversation offers practical guidance, research-backed insights, and an empowering reminder to honor your own unique path to connection.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

In this episode, Emilie Brotherton and Darby Schwien take us inside the ASCEND program at Missouri State University, a unique initiative supporting students with autism and other mental health challenges. They share how the program fosters connection through mentorship, social events, and a thoughtfully designed space for neurodivergent students. The conversation highlights the power of community, the impact of inclusive support systems, and offers helpful insight for prospective students exploring programs like ASCEND.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

In this episode, Samantha and Reux—autistic adults working in applied behavior analysis—share their personal journeys from diagnosis to professional life. They reflect on early employment challenges, the critical role of workplace support, and why autistic voices matter in the field. Their stories offer hope to families, guidance for new behavior technicians, and a powerful reminder of the independence and success autistic individuals can achieve.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

Rachel Schaub is a 16-year-old autistic singer-songwriter who joins us to share stories about her love of singing and songwriting through AI. She shares about the experiences that inspire her and her writing process. Rachel also discusses how technology helps her connect with others and express herself in unique ways. Listeners will hear firsthand how music and AI intersect to open up creative possibilities.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

Rachel Estes Leyk is a mother, businesswoman, coach, and advocate who delivers heartfelt and highly practical strategies for raising emotionally resilient, self-aware children. In this conversation, she opens up about a moment of crisis in her family that became the catalyst for her advocacy, which has led to helping others to do the same. Her upcoming book, Response-ABILITY: How the Need to Unlock a Child’s Ability to Respond Shapes the Way We Love, Care, Support, and Uplift, is available for pre-order and launches on January 18, 2026.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com

Jenny Palmiotto, founder of Love and Autism, joins us to share the inspiring journey behind the movement that’s redefining how we think about autism. Jenny explores what it truly means to create an autistic-affirming world—one where autistic voices are centered, support needs are seen as neutral, and ableism is actively dismantled.

From challenging ableist narratives to finding connection through humor and everyday activism, this conversation reminds us that inclusion starts with listening and learning. Jenny also gives a glimpse into the upcoming Moms Retreat, a nurturing space designed to support mothers of autistic children and build a stronger sense of community.

To view the transcript, show notes, and video interview, visit www.allautismtalk.com

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Andy Bondy and his wife, Lori Frost, MS, CCC-SLP, who are the co-founders of Pyramid Educational Consultants, Inc. They’re also the creators of the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS). Together, they share about the origins and updates of PECS, their work around the world, and the release of the 3rd Edition of the PECS Manual.

We explore the importance of everyday language when discussing effective teaching strategies, the power of collaborative teamwork, and the need for truly individualized support. Andy and Lori also provide a forward-looking perspective on the future of PECS and emphasize why embracing cross- cultural understanding is essential for effective communication.

Join us for this insightful conversation that offers evidence-based communication practices designed to empower parents, educators, and clinicians.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral (www.learnbehavioral.com). To view this episode's transcription, video interview, or show notes, visit www.allautismtalk.com