Dads in Autismland
Dads in Autismland
Mark de Grasse
Dads in Autismland is a heartfelt and candid podcast dedicated to fathers raising children on the autism spectrum. Hosted by Mark de Grasse, a proud dad navigating life in the world of autism, this podcast offers a safe space for dads to share their triumphs, challenges, and personal growth while fostering a supportive community.Each episode dives into the unique experiences of parenting in "Autismland," featuring real stories from dads, expert interviews, and actionable tips for navigating everything from meltdowns to milestones. Whether you're seeking advice, camaraderie, or just a good laugh, Dads in Autismland provides honest conversations about fatherhood, family, and finding joy in the journey.Join us weekly as we explore the ups, downs, and everything in between of raising extraordinary children while becoming stronger, more compassionate dads along the way.
Not Just a Superpower: Jeffery May on Writing Autism Without the Sugarcoating | Season 2 Episode 29
Send us Fan Mail When Jeffery May’s son Jackson was diagnosed with autism, he and his wife didn’t just search for answers, they created one. Our Amazing Minds isn’t just a children’s book; it’s a powerful tool for helping kids understand autism in a way that’s honest, inclusive, and visually relatable. In this episode, Jeffery shares what it was like to process the diagnosis as a father, how grief turned into creative action, and why representing the full spectrum of autism matters. He ...
Oct 30, 2025
32 min
The Autism Journey Begins: Real Dad Stories on Early Autism Diagnosis | Season 2 Episode 28
Send us Fan Mail In this special solo episode of Dads in Autismland, host Mark de Grasse launches the Guide to Autismland series—a curated journey through the most impactful moments from the podcast’s first 27 episodes. Sharing his own experiences as a father to a profoundly autistic son, Mark dives into the earliest and often most confusing stage of raising a child on the spectrum: the diagnosis. With stories from other dads like Corey Michael, Dennis Procopio, Steve Levine, and more, ...
Aug 29, 2025
30 min
A Guide to Autismland: Real Advice from Fathers Who’ve Been There | Season 2 Episode 27
Send us Fan Mail Drawing from his personal journey as a father to a profoundly autistic son and insights from the first 26 episodes, Mark offers an encouraging and practical starting point for dads new to the autism journey. With empathy and humor, he explores the emotional challenges, lifestyle changes, and community support that autism dads often encounter. This episode sets the tone for a powerful series designed to empower, connect, and guide fathers who may feel alone. Whet...
Jul 31, 2025
15 min
Autism Challenges, Christian Values: David Lee’s Story of Faith & Fortitude | Season 2 Episode 26
Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt episode of Dads In Autismland, host Mark de Grasse sits down with David Lee—professor, podcaster, and father to 9-year-old Eddie, who is on the autism spectrum. David shares his deeply personal journey, from early moments of uncertainty and shame to finding joy in the smallest victories. Together, they reflect on the unique trials and triumphs of raising an autistic child, discuss the value of faith and community, and explore how big life changes—incl...
Jul 18, 2025
24 min
Autism Fitness Blueprint: A New Approach to Autism Exercise with Eric Chessen | Season 2 Episode 25
Send us Fan Mail 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 ...
Jun 18, 2025
48 min
Taking Autism Public: Dad Tips for Autism Outings with Mark Kendall | Season 2 Episode 24
Send us Fan Mail 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, hon...
Jun 6, 2025
33 min
Building  Autism Acres: How Allan Young is Redefining Safe Spaces for Special Needs | Season 2 Episode 23
Send us Fan Mail 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 skill...
May 30, 2025
29 min
Full-Time Fatherhood: From 80-Hour Workweeks to Autism Advocacy w/Matt Anderton | Season 2 Episode 22
Send us Fan Mail 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...
May 23, 2025
40 min
Faith, Fatherhood & Autism: Graeme Wright’s Journey of Redemption | Season 2 Episode 21
Send us Fan Mail 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...
May 9, 2025
47 min
Big Family, Bigger Heart: How Jason Vance Raises Six Kids w/One on the Spectrum | Season 2 Episode 20
Send us Fan Mail 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 daugh...
May 1, 2025
36 min
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