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Welcome to “Speaking of the Spectrum” – an Autism Podcast, for everyone!

Hosts Shahrukh Sultan and Joe Templin navigate the colorful world of autism with heart, humor, and insightful guests. Join them as they share personal stories, decode parenting challenges, and celebrate remarkable individuals in the autism community.

Tune in for an inspiring journey filled with love, laughter, and spectrum insights! New Episodes every Friday on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Follow on Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates.

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Watch our trailer!

Speaking of the Spectrum was featured on News10 ABC!

Recent Episodes

Season 2 Episode 10: Trending the Spectrum

In our Season 2 finale, fueled by coffee, donuts, and a big dose of gratitude, we take a look back at the amazing journey of this season.
 
We start with a heartfelt thank you to our listeners and a reminder of how you can support our work by donating to the Autism Society Greater Hudson Region.
One of our biggest highlights? A viral Instagram reel, now at over 1 million views, sharing Islam’s beautiful message that autistic children are a “badge of honor.” We reflect on the global impact of this message and the joy of bringing positive attention to autism. This is why our show is called Speaking of the Spectrum—because putting a positive spin on the autism conversation can inspire families and individuals alike.
 
We revisit some of our favorite moments this season, from guest Angelo Santabarbara’s tip on the free NY State Disability Identification Card for easier travel, to launching the “ADAM Project” (Autism Dads and Moms), a playful nod to Ryan Reynolds’ movie, in hopes of catching his attention!
 
We also address an important topic for the autism community: high rates of depression, and share tips for combatting it—from getting outdoors in summer to finding fulfilling winter activities.
Our “Hero of the Day” is Dr. Jason Eichenholz, a personal hero of Joe’s and a member of the Florida Inventors Hall of Fame. Inspired by his non-verbal autistic son, Jonathan, Dr. Eichenholz developed transport technology and started his charity organization, Jonathan’s Landing. 

 

As we wrap up, we recap the incredible contributions our guests have made, the essential services we discussed, and encourage our listeners to keep Speaking of the Spectrum. Join us to celebrate the highs, tackle the challenges, and continue the conversation into the future!

Season 2 Episode 9: Directing the Spectrum

In the penultimate episode of this Season, titled “Directing the Spectrum”, we’re joined by Nathan Briggs, the Executive Director of Autism Society Greater Hudson Region (ASGHR). Nathan shares his inspiring origin story, which, despite not having a direct connection to autism, is deeply rooted by an individual in his early life.
 
We dive into Nathan’s vision for the organization by the end of the decade, aligning with the Autism Society’s five core values, and discuss exciting opportunities for supporting autistic individuals in college and their transition into adulthood.
 
Continuing our exploration of how autism is understood across cultures, we touch on the Gaelic and Scotch/Irish interpretations of the word “Autism.” In our ADAM Project segment, we discuss the therapeutic impact of animals on autistic children and highlight organizations that provide therapy dogs.
 
Finally, we embrace some chaotic neutral energy and showcase our limited edition podcast mugs—find out how you can get one of your own!

Season 2 Episode 8: Championing the Spectrum

In this powerful episode, we are joined by NY State Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara, a dedicated autism dad and lifelong advocate for the cause. Angelo shares his personal journey as a second-generation immigrant, detailing how his background in civil engineering and service in the Army Reserves laid the foundation for his transition into politics—all inspired by his son, Michael, who is on the spectrum.

We dive into Angelo’s deep connection with the Autism Society Greater Hudson Region, where he served as a board member for many years. His passion for advocacy has driven his fight for essential supports and services for the autism community. He highlights his groundbreaking initiative, Autism Action NY, a comprehensive 5-Step Plan designed to streamline services and provide the right support for individuals and families affected by autism.

Angelo also introduces the free NY Disability ID Card, a critical tool to assist individuals in communicating essential information, particularly in high-stress situations like traffic stops or TSA checkpoints.

 
We discuss the importance of early diagnosis, the challenges many parents face when their child is first diagnosed, and how our organization is there to guide them through the process.
 
The conversation touches on the significant financial challenges associated with raising a child with autism, including annual care costs and the importance of self-direction budgets from the state.
 
Angelo shares his work on the NY State Autism Advisory Board, which is breaking new ground in healthcare by driving solutions like sensory-friendly emergency rooms and addressing the employment crisis for individuals with special needs.
 
Finally, we explore the ongoing fight to combat stigma, promote social acceptance, and create more inclusive employment opportunities for the autism community.
 
This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about advocacy, public policy, and supporting individuals with autism.
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Podcast Guest: Expression of Interest Form

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