Claim OwnershipAutism and The Neuroverse
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Dr. Brandon Park, Neuropsychologist & Founder of New Focus Academy, and Alta Swarnes, Family Connections Director, present a podcast on neuroscience and family/professional support, with emphasis on Autism. Dr Park is a self-proclaimed brain nerd and cognitive neuroscientist studying and supporting Autism. Alta Swarnes has been in the mental health field since 1997 and has a son on the Autism Spectrum. Episodes will have regular reviews of topics where Alta interviews various professionals, including Dr. Park, and special trainings with a general focus on Autism and co-occurring disorders.
58 Episodes
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In episode #58 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta speaks with Bart Morrill and Dale Robinson from Spanish Fork Parks and Recreation about the vision behind their inclusive, adaptive playground designed to serve families of all abilities.Bart and Dale share how listening to families in the disability community reshaped their approach to park design — creating a space where children no longer need to split up to find accessible play. From sensory-friendly features to thoughtful layout and community collaboration, this park represents a shift toward belonging, dignity, and shared experiences.This conversation highlights why inclusive public spaces matter, how adaptive design benefits everyone, and what happens when communities commit to building environments where families can truly step together.A hopeful, practical episode for parents, educators, and city leaders working toward a more inclusive world.
In episode 57, Dr. Neil Christensen joins Dr. Park and Alta to break down why neurodivergent teens—especially autistic and ADHD youth—are significantly more vulnerable to digital media overuse. Drawing from decades in wilderness therapy and his Disconnect to Reconnect study, Neil explains the neurological, social, and emotional factors that pull teens toward excessive gaming, social media, and online communities.He shares why screens offer a powerful sense of control, predictability, and instant reward, and how this can escalate into dependency—especially when teens feel isolated, bullied, or misunderstood in real life.This episode is a compassionate, eye-opening guide for families navigating digital overwhelm in the neurodiverse community.10/6/25
In this final installment of the Predictive Process series, Dr. Park breaks down the crucial last phase: generalizing fluency and building predictive autonomy.Many autistic and neurodivergent young people face constant predictive gaps—moments when the world doesn’t match what they expect. These gaps trigger overwhelm, anxiety, shutdowns, or rigid coping strategies.Dr. Park explains how parents and caregivers can help kids move from safety and structure, to strategic growth, to finally becoming fluent, adaptive, and authentically themselves in unpredictable environments.Whether your child is a homebody, anxiously avoiding new environments, or pushing toward independence, this episode gives compassionate, practical guidance for supporting autonomy—without forcing conformity.10/24/25
Today, Alta sits down with Lauren Sharifi, MPH, RD, LDN, a leading dietitian specializing in ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), to unpack one of the most misunderstood eating challenges faced by autistic and neurodivergent individuals. Lauren explains what ARFID is — and is not — highlighting the differences from anorexia, the impact of sensory sensitivities, and how trauma, anxiety, and executive functioning shape a person’s relationship with food. They discuss early signs parents can watch for, why traditional feeding approaches often backfire, and how accommodations can actually increase safety, regulation, and long-term progress. Lauren offers guidance on creating supportive mealtime environments, reducing overwhelm, and redefining “recovery” in a way that honors neurodiversity. A validating, informative episode for families, providers, and anyone wanting a deeper understanding of ARFID.10/3/25
In episode #54 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta talks with Mark Cheminant, ADA Coordinator for the Salt Lake City International Airport, about transforming air travel into an inclusive and supportive experience for every passenger.Mark shares how his team implemented sensory rooms, adaptive training, the Sunflower Program, and social stories to support neurodiverse travelers. From pre-flight tours to sensory-friendly spaces, Mark explains how accessibility is becoming a built-in part of airport culture — not an afterthought.Whether you’re a parent traveling with a child on the spectrum or an adult seeking a calmer travel experience, this episode offers practical hope: everyone can travel safely, comfortably, and with confidence.10-13-25
In episode #53 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with Hilary Pham, founder and CEO of Equability, a company that transforms existing clothing into adaptive, accessible fashion.Hilary shares how watching her mother struggle with arthritis inspired her to create solutions that make everyday clothes easier to wear — without sacrificing personal style. From adding magnets to buttons and zippers to tailoring for medical or sensory needs, Equability is helping people of all abilities express themselves and regain independence through clothing.Hear how Hilary’s mission is reshaping the fashion industry, one garment at a time, and why adaptive clothing is about far more than convenience — it’s about confidence, identity, and inclusion.
In episode #52 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta and Dr. Park speak with therapist and Autism Learning Lab founder Chris Blankenship, LCSW, about one of the most overlooked challenges in autism: masking and burnout.Chris explains how masking—the effort autistic individuals make to appear “neurotypical”—can lead to exhaustion, depression, anxiety, and disconnection. He breaks down how burnout differs from typical fatigue, how trauma and social pressure can intensify it, and why safe spaces for unmasking are essential. Listeners will learn how families and caregivers can help autistic individuals find balance, set boundaries, and embrace authenticity without losing connection or opportunity.
Author and mother Corey Hatfield joins Alta on episode 51 to share her journey of raising a son with autism, finding compassion for herself, and learning to see beauty in pain. Through heartbreak, humor, and faith, Corey’s story—captured in her memoir The Light from a Thousand Wounds—reminds us that even our hardest moments can become the places where light enters in.9-25-25
On episode #50, Alta talks with master barber, educator, and inventor Henry Tribes about creating sensory-friendly haircuts for autistic and neurodivergent clients.Henry shares how a weighted blanket inspired his weighted haircut cape, why he pursued Sensory Safe certification, and the strategies he uses to reduce overwhelm—questionnaires, gradual desensitization, music, fidgets, flexible pacing, and zero restraint.Hear the story behind his first spectrum clients, how he supports families, and his mission to expand training and build a sensory-first barbershop. Parents and providers will learn practical ways to turn haircut anxiety into trust, confidence, and dignity.9-29-25
In episode #49 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta and Dr. Park speak with filmmaker Nicola Rose about her film Magnetosphere. Set in the 1990s, the film follows a teenage girl with synesthesia — a neurological condition where senses blend, allowing people to see sounds, taste shapes, or feel emotions as colors.Nicola shares her research process, including interviews with individuals who live with synesthesia, and how she translated those experiences into authentic cinematic language. Together, the guests discuss how synesthesia connects to neurodiversity, the challenges of sensory overload and burnout, and why storytelling matters in helping us see the world through different perspectives .9/22/25
In episode #48 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with Charlotte Shores — chef, entrepreneur, Mrs. Utah America 2025, and mother of three neurodivergent children. Charlotte shares her personal journey with ADHD, the challenges of undiagnosed neurodivergence growing up, and how she has turned her differences into strengths.She opens up about perfectionism, overstimulation in motherhood, and raising children with ADHD and autism, while also advocating for greater understanding and inclusion.Parents and listeners will find encouragement, relatability, and practical insights into navigating life as both a neurodivergent adult and caregiver9/15/25
In episode #47 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta and Dr. Park continue their series on helping neurodiverse children thrive by exploring predictive strategies.Dr. Park explains how parents can move beyond safety and stability to teach kids forecasting, consequential reasoning, and predictive questioning. He shares practical tools like using social stories, role-play, mirrors, and visual mapping to build flexibility, self-awareness, and independence.Listeners will learn how to shift from reactive moments to proactive growth, guiding autistic children and teens toward confidence and forward thinking.11/15/25
In episode #46 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta speaks with Heber City Police Chief Parker Sever about how law enforcement can better serve neurodiverse individuals.With nearly 30 years of experience, Chief Sever shares how his department uses crisis intervention training, autism awareness workshops, sensory kits, and proactive community events to improve interactions with autistic children, teens, and families.Listeners will learn how police can foster trust, de-escalate crises, and create safe, positive connections between law enforcement and the neurodiverse community.9/8/25
In episode #45 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta speaks with Jay Williams, New Focus Academy's special education coordinator, about the critical role of executive functioning skills in the lives of autistic children and teens. Jay explains how skills like emotional regulation, flexible thinking, impulse control, and organization form the foundation for independence and success. Through real-life classroom stories, practical strategies, and parent workshops, Jay shares how families can support these skills at home.This episode offers parents, teachers, and caregivers tools to help neurodiverse young people thrive in school, relationships, and daily life.8/25/25
In episode #44 of Autism and the Neuroverse, Alta sits down with Mary White, founder and clinical director of Pure Progression Music Therapy. Mary shares how music therapy helps autistic children and teens build communication, regulate emotions, and develop social and sensory skills.From drumming and songwriting to group improvisation and family sessions, music becomes a powerful tool for connection and growth. Parents and educators will learn practical ways music can support emotional regulation, flexibility, and everyday life skills for neurodiverse individuals.8-22-25
In this episode of Autism and the Neuroverse, hosts Alta and Dr. Park explore how parents, teachers, and professionals can support autistic children and teens by building a strong foundation of safety, security, and stability. Dr. Park explains how predictive gaps—moments when the world feels confusing or unpredictable—can create anxiety, meltdowns, and shutdowns for many neurodiverse young people.Listeners will discover practical tools to create structured yet flexible environments, strengthen positive relationships, and foster somatic awareness, helping children recognize and regulate their emotions, physical needs, and stress responses. Dr. Park also shares how narrative tools—simple storytelling and planning techniques—can prepare autistic youth for daily routines, social situations, and bigger life transitions, such as moving toward independence and adulthood.Whether you’re a parent raising an autistic child, an educator supporting neurodiverse students, or a therapist working with families, this conversation offers real-world strategies for helping autistic children and teens thrive.
Struggling with unfair situations may be a daily challenge, especially for individuals on the spectrum. But what if we could channel that energy towards something more constructive? Adam Durrant explores the concept of Radical Acceptance, a part of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) with roots in Buddhist philosophy and Greek stoicism. Learn how this practice can help individuals accept life's unavoidable challenges while focusing on meaningful, positive actions. Highlights include:Why Radical Acceptance is a lifelong skill for building resilience Practical approaches for managing anxiety among children on the spectrum The two-arrow metaphor that reveals how to distinguish pain from needless suffering Whether you’re a neurodiverse individual, caregiver, or professional, this conversation offers actionable insights into fostering self-compassion, flexibility, and growth. Listen now to learn how Radical Acceptance can empower you or your loved ones to handle life's unpredictability with grace. 7-21-25
Ever wondered why mutual give-and-take in relationships can feel so challenging for kids with autism? Dr. Park explores the complexities of social interactions, from understanding the "reciprocal circle" to challenges in switching perspectives during conversations. This episode uncovers the unique risks neurodiverse kids may face, like manipulation or misplaced trust, and highlights how teaching healthy boundaries can strengthen connections rather than create walls. Plus, you'll gain actionable insights for fostering trust, emotional safety, and meaningful relationships in your child’s life. Whether you're a parent, educator, or professional supporting the autistic community, this episode offers expert advice to help you better understand and empower those you care for. 7/14/25
What does it take to truly support neurodiverse students in their educational journeys? On this episode of Autism and the Neurodiverse, we’re joined by Irene Summers, Academic Director at New Focus Academy. Irene shares her inspiring path into education, driven by a deep belief in the power of teamwork and community to help students thrive. From reimagining education schedules to implementing flexible, neurodiverse-friendly learning structures, Irene offers expert insights into creating impactful educational environments. Learn why she believes every student deserves a strong network of support and how her team's innovative approaches are driving real change. If you’re curious about fresh ways to engage neurodiverse learners or want a peek behind the scenes at a unique educational model, this episode is for you. 6/23/25
Discover the transformative power of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy in this in-depth conversation with Alta and Adam. This episode unpacks the intricacies of IFS, a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals connect with their inner selves, understand complex emotions, and heal deep-seated trauma. Together, Alta and Adam explore how IFS promotes self-compassion and balance by addressing the interplay between different parts of the psyche. They share real-life examples, actionable strategies, and reflective insights to guide listeners on their journeys toward inner harmony. Whether you are new to therapy, a seasoned practitioner, or simply curious about healing practices, this discussion provides a rich resource for understanding the significance of IFS in processing trauma, nurturing relationships, and fostering overall well-being for individuals and families alike.6-9-25
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