In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb talks with Manish Arora, co-founder of LinusBio, the company behind ClearStrand-ASD — a new test that uses hair samples to help detect autism risk earlier in life. Together, they discuss the science behind early detection, recent advances in research, and what the future could look like for early autism screening.

In this new episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, guest host Kadin McElwain sits down with Hispanic guitarist Ashton Almengor Fontanez. Diagnosed with autism at two, Ashton has used music to change people’s perceptions on what autistic individuals are capable of and as a way to express himself. We sat down to discuss what Hispanic Heritage Month means to him, his story, and Autism Speaks’ Hispanic resources.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, two-time Emmy-nominated journalist, mother, and autism advocate Sofia Lachapelle joins guest host Tony Hernandez Pumarejo for an inspiring conversation about the Hispanic community. From her career in journalism to advocating for the autism community at the United Nations, Sofia has become a voice for many Hispanic and Spanish-speaking families with loved ones on the autism spectrum. Born in the Dominican Republic, Sofía Lachapelle earned her degree from the Universidad del Sagrado Corazón in Puerto Rico in 1995. She began her television career reporting for WAPA TV in Puerto Rico and later joined Univision in Miami and New York. During 9/11, she reported live from the World Trade Center, enduring the dust and chaos, and helped victims by gathering information about their loved ones—a testament to her courage and empathy.  In 2002, she returned to the Dominican Republic, where she anchored news for Canal 27. By 2004, she had her own show, “Controversia,” on Canal 13. In 2005, after relocating back to the U.S., she welcomed her first son, Jayson, and later a second son, Maximus, both diagnosed with autism. Motivated by her children’s diagnoses, Sofía founded “Un Paso a la Vez” (“One Step at a Time”), an organization committed to empowering parents of children with special needs.  Sofia has played a key role in advocating for and drafting legal projects in Austin and across Latin America and the Caribbean. She has been recognized multiple times for her journalism work, including twice as a National Emmy winner. Finally, Sofia served as a Board Member for Autism Speaks Miami Chapter and for Best Buddies International.   

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Tyler White from Love on the Spectrum joins Eileen Lamb for an inspiring and lighthearted conversation about love, music, and life on the spectrum. Tyler shares what it was really like filming the show, how he found his perfect match in Madison. From his journey as a self-taught musician to performing at the Grand Ole Opry and launching his own DJ business, Tyler’s story is full of energy, heart, and unforgettable moments. Diagnosed with autism at age 3, Tyler White has turned his passions into a platform to inspire. Raised in Shirley, Arkansas, he found joy in music, fishing, and NASCAR—and taught himself to play drums by ear. In 2017, Tyler launched DJ TyWy, his wedding and event DJ business. Since then, he’s emceed Autism Speaks events, introduced stars like Reba McEntire and The Beach Boys, and even performed at the Grand Ole Opry and for the Tampa Bay Rays. In 2024, Tyler found love with Madison on Love on the Spectrum. Now based in Plant City, FL, he continues to pursue country music and host his podcast, while collaborating with brands like Publix, Cracker Barrel, and Coca-Cola. Tyler’s motto: Never give up. Use your autism to inspire.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb sits down with Chris Redding, father, musician, and autism advocate, and his wife Serena to talk about their journey raising Christian, their son who is autistic and nonverbal. Chris and Serena open up about the daily realities of parenting a child with high support needs, from elopement and self-injury to the quiet moments of connection that make it all worth it. They share how their relationship has been tested and strengthened, and how Chris uses music and social media to tell stories that often go unheard. It’s an honest, moving conversation about love, advocacy, and showing up even on the hardest days. Chris Redding is a GRAMMY-nominated artist and producer whose fusion of hip-hop, chant, and R&B amplifies voices often unheard. Inspired by his nonverbal autistic son, Christian, Chris creates music that fosters connection and inclusion,  especially for those with autism, ADHD, and synesthesia. A mental health and neurodiversity advocate, Chris has received the University of Florida’s Music Meets Medicine Impact Award and was honored by the National Congress of Argentina. His work helped secure a proclamation recognizing April as Autism Acceptance Month in Florida.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Amy Tiffany from Love Is Blind joins Eileen Lamb for a down-to-earth conversation about life in the pods, the reality behind reality TV, and what the experience taught her about connection and vulnerability. Amy also opens up about her relationship with her autistic brother, sharing how growing up alongside him shaped her outlook on communication, empathy, and love. It's an honest, relatable chat full of heart, humor, and behind-the-scenes moments. Amy Tiffany is a travel content creator, entrepreneur, and former Love is Blind cast member, where she met her husband and shared her family’s story with millions. Amy has been a vocal advocate for autism awareness due to her close relationship with her brother who is on the spectrum. She also serves on the board of directors for Aventura Consciente, a new Charlotte local bilingual autism organization dedicated to inclusive education and support. Amy is proud to join the Team of 20 for Autism Speaks, using her platform to champion inclusivity, compassion, and greater understanding of the autism community.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb sits down with the team behind The Plight — Matthew Boda (director), Ronald Sandoval (writer), and Jacob Waltuck (autistic actor). They talk about the personal stories that inspired the film, what it was like collaborating on such an emotionally intense project, and why authentic representation in media matters now more than ever.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb chats with Landon Ashworth, an autistic filmmaker, actor, and creative powerhouse. Landon talks about how being autistic influences the way he tells stories, what it’s like working in entertainment, and why real representation matters. He also shares the inspiration behind his new movie, which was made in honor of his young autistic cousin and dives into themes like grief, healing, and finding hope. From aviation to filmmaking, Landon's path has been anything but boring. Landon Ashworth is an 2E gifted autistic filmmaker, test pilot, and social media content creator who spent his entire adult life studying to becoming an astronaut, and his entire childhood in the theater. Landon won over a dozen filmmaking awards including best short at Oscar qualifying film festivals, best pilot script at Atlanta Film Fest and Raindance, and just competed directing and producing his first feature in honor of his autistic cousin who died by suicide last year.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb chats with golf legend Billy Mayfair. Billy recently joined Autism Speaks’ Team 20. In this episode, he opens up about getting diagnosed with autism later in life and how it helped him make sense of so many things, on and off the course. They talk about his journey through pro golf, and how his perspective on life and the game has shifted since his diagnosis. It’s an honest, down-to-earth conversation about identity, pressure, and learning to understand yourself. Billy Mayfair is one of the top professional golfers in the U.S., with five PGA Tour wins and the distinction of being the only player to ever beat Tiger Woods in a PGA Tour playoff. A regular on the PGA Tour since 1989, he now competes on the PGA Tour Champions. His career wins include the Nissan Open, Buick Open, Motorola Western Open, Tour Championship, and Greater Milwaukee Open. As an amateur, he won the U.S. Amateur and U.S. Public Links. He’s earned over $22 million in career prize money and has ranked as high as 26th in the Official World Golf Rankings. Mayfair was diagnosed with autism in 2019 after experiencing Autism-like symptoms throughout his life.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb talks with Scott LeRette—author of The Unbreakable Boy and father to Austin, who is autistic and lives with a rare connective tissue disorder. Scott opens up about the highs, lows, and unexpected beauty of raising a child with profound disabilities. From raw honesty about the hardest days to the joy Austin brings into every room, Scott shares what resilience really looks like when life doesn’t follow the script. They also talk about the process of turning his family’s story into a book and film, what the word “unbreakable” means to him now, and how faith and humor helped him through the chaos.

In this episode of Just Another Podcast with Eileen Lamb, Eileen sits down with Survivor contestant Eva Erickson to discuss her incredible journey with autism and how it shaped her experience on the show. Eva shares her personal story, from her early diagnosis to the therapies that helped her thrive, and opens up about what it was like representing the autism community on such a huge platform. They dive into the challenges, victories, and unique strengths Eva brought to the Survivor game, offering a fresh perspective on resilience, social dynamics, and overcoming obstacles. Don't miss this empowering conversation with one of Survivor's most inspiring contestants!

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb is joined by award-winning chef, author, and television personality Maneet Chauhan. Best known as a judge on Chopped and the first-ever two-time champion of Tournament of Champions, Maneet is also a mother to a 10-year-old autistic son. She shares how autism has shaped her perspective both in the kitchen and at home, discussing sensory sensitivities with food, inclusive dining experiences, and tips for parents navigating picky eating. Maneet also gives a preview of the upcoming Autism Speaks Chef Gala, where she’ll be using her talents to support the autism community. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on the intersection of food, family, and advocacy.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb sits down with 12-year-old Austin, an autistic aspiring stand-up comedian. Austin opens about his diagnosis, the challenges of growing up feeling different, and how comedy has become his way of navigating the world. With humor and honesty, he shares how laughter has helped him connect with others and embrace his unique perspective.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb talks with Jackie Ceonzo, founder of SNACK*, a nonprofit dedicated to enriching the lives of children, teens, and young adults with autism through inclusive programs and activities. Jackie shares what inspired her to create SNACK*, how the organization has grown from a small after-school program to serving over 250 individuals, and her vision for expanding support, including housing options for autistic individuals. She also discusses the challenges families face and the importance of building spaces where everyone feels welcome and can thrive.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb talks with Dr. Arthur Westover, a psychiatrist specializing in adult autism and developmental disabilities, and a dad to a 20-year-old autistic son with intellectual disability. Dr. Westover shares his dual perspective as a professional and parent, highlighting the challenges families face in finding psychiatric care for autistic adults. He also discusses the need for improved education and training in psychiatry to serve this community better.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, special host GW joins us for Black History Month as we talk with Josh King, who shares his journey as a single parent of an autistic daughter diagnosed at 18 months in 2005 while serving in Iraq. He faced challenges in childcare and medical services due to lack of awareness and training. King advocated for better funding and training for special needs teachers and caregivers, running for various political offices to raise awareness. He emphasized the need for local advocacy and bipartisan support. King's efforts led to improved services and policies, including paid sick leave for caregivers. He continues to advocate nationally, aiming to ensure better care and services for individuals with autism.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, host Eileen Lamb sits down with Justin Moehn, a passionate autism self-advocate and educator. Justin shares his journey from being diagnosed with autism in 1985 at Texas Children’s Hospital to becoming an award-winning advocate. He opens up about his experiences growing up, his work with organizations and businesses, and his mission to help others by teaching essential job skills. Justin also dives into his efforts to train first responders about autism, sharing the impact this work has had on his community and himself. Justin Moehn was diagnosed with autism in 1985 at Texas Children's Hospital. He’s a passionate self-advocate who’s been sharing his insights at events, organizations, and businesses for years. Justin covers everything from general resources to job skills and was recognized for his advocacy work with an award from The Arc of Fort Bend in 2019. A 2001 graduate of Austin High School, he earned certifications in PC technical support and office administration at Wharton County Jr. College. These days, Justin also trains first responders about autism, helping them better understand and support the community.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb chats with Bryan Russell, Emergency Management Coordinator with Disability Rights Florida. Bryan talks about making sure people with disabilities, including those with autism, are included in emergency preparedness and recovery efforts. He shares tips on preparing before a disaster happens, offers resources and checklists for families and providers, and dives into the policy changes needed to improve support. Bryan Russell is the Emergency Management Coordinator with Disability Rights Florida where he works to ensure the needs of persons with disabilities are included in emergency preparedness, response and recovery efforts across the state. Prior to this role, Bryan was the Program Manager for the Florida Department of Health’s Disability and Health Program where he focused on adapting and implementing public health interventions for persons with disabilities. During emergencies and disasters, Bryan serves as the State Access Coordinator with the Florida State Emergency Response Team providing guidance and recommendations to ensure the needs of persons with access and functional needs are met during all phases of disasters.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, host Eileen Lamb sits down with Abbey Romeo from the Netflix show Love on the Spectrum and her mom, Christine. Abbey opens up about her passion for music, sharing her aspirations for the future and the goals she’s working toward. She also gives listeners an inside look at her relationship with David. Christine joins the conversation with her own perspective, discussing her online advocacy work within the autism community. She shares her thoughts on ABA therapy, reflecting on its impact and her hopes for how it can evolve to better serve autistic individuals. Christine also speaks from the heart about her vision for the autism community. Together, Abbey and Christine offer a touching and inspiring look into their lives.

In this episode of Just Another Autism Podcast, Eileen Lamb is joined once again by Dani Bowman and her aunt, Sandy. Dani is the star of Netflix's Love on the Spectrum, accomplished entrepreneur, and proud autistic woman. As part of the Hispanic community, Dani shares her unique perspective in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, reflecting on her experiences as both a person with autism and a Hispanic woman.