Explore every episode of the podcast Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism

What does a genuine, lifelong friendship look like?

In Episode 30 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Kam and Mike share the story of a remarkable friendship that has lasted more than 40 years. Their conversation reminds us of the importance of seeing beyond differences, building authentic relationships, and recognizing the incredible blessings people with special needs bring to our lives.

This heartfelt episode offers encouragement to parents, families, and anyone who believes in inclusion, connection, and the power of true friendship.

Watch the full conversation, then share your thoughts in the comments. Please like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more honest conversations from Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism.

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations:https://gregorysgifts.com

#BeyondExpectations #ParentingAutism #AutismAcceptance #SpecialNeeds #Inclusion #Friendship #Podcast

In Episode 29 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Dr. Jonathan Chism, co-founder of the Autism Dads Social Club, for an honest conversation about raising his non-speaking autistic son.

Jonathan shares his journey from diagnosis and uncertainty to acceptance, advocacy, and connection—and explains why community is so important for fathers navigating autism.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations: www.gregorysgifts.com

#Autism #AutismDad #AutismParenting #Fatherhood #CaregiverSupport #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 28 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by author, coach, and fellow autism mom Susanna Peace Lovell for an honest conversation about raising her daughter, Arizona, navigating the unexpected, and learning to care for yourself while caring for someone you love.

Susanna shares her journey through diagnosis, advocacy, self-care, building a support system, and helping other special-needs families feel less alone.

Learn more about Susanna at www.susannapeacelovell.com, follow her on Instagram @mamapeace, and listen to her as co-host of the Brave Together podcast.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations: www.gregorysgifts.com

#Autism #AutismParenting #SpecialNeedsParenting #CaregiverSupport #Neurodiversity #SelfCare #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 27 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Allysen Ortega, Gregory’s friend since fifth grade and now a special education teacher.

Allysen shares how her friendship with Gregory inspired her career and shaped her commitment to inclusion. They also discuss Unified programs, IEPs and 504 plans, school evaluations, and the importance of strong partnerships between parents and educators.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Shop thoughtful, unique gifts while supporting Greg’s growing small business at www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 26 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Kelli Fortner, principal of Quitman Elementary, for a real-world look at special education, inclusion, and supporting students at school.Inspired in part by growing up alongside Gregory, Kelli shares why she entered special education and how schools are moving toward more individualized support, higher expectations, and inclusion.They also discuss IEPs, early intervention, parent-school communication, and why working together can help every child reach their potential.This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Shop thoughtful, unique gifts while supporting Greg’s growing small business at www.gregorysgifts.com.#Autism #SpecialEducation #IEP #Inclusion #AutismParenting #BeyondExpectationsPodcast

In Episode 25 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Doris Champlin, Gregory's former high school paraprofessional, for a heartfelt conversation about inclusion, advocacy, and helping students with autism succeed in school.

Doris shares what it's really like supporting students with special needs, why communication between parents and educators is essential, and how focusing on life skills, independence, and confidence can make a lasting impact far beyond the classroom.

Whether you're navigating IEPs, preparing for high school, or looking for ways to better support your child, this episode offers practical encouragement and valuable perspective for parents, caregivers, and educators alike.

Learn more about Gregory's small business at www.gregorysgifts.com and help support his journey toward independence.

In Episode 24 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome LynnLee Schmidt for a conversation about the powerful connection between people and animals.

LynnLee shares how meaningful animal experiences can encourage confidence, connection, learning, and growth for individuals with autism and their families.

Learn more about Tanganyika Wildlife Park: https://www.twpark.com

Learn more about KultureCity: https://www.kulturecity.org

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 23 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome Derek Crager for a conversation about employment, independence, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with autism.

Derek shares practical insights on preparing for the workplace, developing life skills, and how the right support can help individuals on the spectrum build confidence and thrive in their careers.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 22 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome occupational therapist Rondalyn Whitney to explain sensory processing and how it affects children with autism.Rondalyn shares practical strategies to help parents better understand sensory needs, emotional regulation, and simple tools that can make everyday life easier for children and families.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 21 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Gregory's former teacher and coach, Clark Stukey, to discuss the life-changing impact of Unified Sports and inclusive education.

Clark shares how creating opportunities for students with and without disabilities transformed not only Gregory's high school experience, but also the lives of countless students. Together, they explore the power of inclusion, teamwork, and believing in every child's potential.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

In Episode 20 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Mario and Courtney Lopez for a heartfelt conversation about friendship, acceptance, and the lasting impact Gregory has had on their lives.

Together, they share personal stories about their relationship with Gregory, the importance of inclusion, and how genuine friendships can create confidence, connection, and lifelong memories. This episode is a reminder that kindness, understanding, and showing up for one another can make all the difference.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Shop Gregory's handmade gifts at http://www.gregorysgifts.com.

@mariolopez & @courtneym_lopez

In this episode, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson sit down with Lawrence Harris—author, speaker, and entrepreneur—to hear what autism is really like from the inside.

Lawrence shares his journey, the challenges of communication and social connection, and practical advice for parents raising children on the spectrum. His perspective is insightful, inspiring, and full of hope.

Learn more about Lawrence: https://www.lawrencecharris.com

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 18 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Gregory’s former teacher, Jill Brazil, to discuss inclusion, IEPs, parent advocacy, and the powerful role teachers play in a child’s success. Together, they share practical advice for building strong parent-teacher partnerships, creating supportive classrooms, and helping children with autism thrive both academically and socially.This episode is proudly supported by Gregory's Special Creations. Visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 17 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson discuss special interests, hyperfixations, and why change and disappointment can be especially challenging for autistic individuals.

Through personal stories about Gregory, they explore how passions can bring joy and comfort while sharing practical insights on setting boundaries, managing expectations, and building coping skills for greater independence.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. Visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 16 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism,Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson talk about the everyday life skills that can make a big difference for a child with autism—from getting dressed and brushing teeth to haircuts, dentist visits, sensory challenges, and building independence over time.

Michelle shares honest stories from raising Gregory,including what worked, what was hard, and why patience, preparation, and small steps matter.

This episode is a helpful listen for parents and caregiversnavigating daily routines, sensory needs, and long-term independence.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s SpecialCreations. Visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 15 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism,Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Mike Walther, founder of Oak Wealth Advisors, for an eye-opening conversation about special needs trusts, government benefits, financial planning, and preparing for the future of aloved one with disabilities.

Mike shares how his own family’s experience inspired him tohelp families navigate the overwhelming world of special needs planning.Together, they break down SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, ABLE accounts, trustees, life insurance, and the critical decisions families face when planning long-term care and financial security.

This episode is packed with practical insight for parentsand caregivers who want to better understand how to protect benefits, avoid costly mistakes, and create a long-term plan that supports their loved one’s independence and quality of life.

Learn more about Oak Wealth Advisors: http://www.oakwealth.com

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s SpecialCreations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 14 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism,Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Randi Gillespie of Oak Wealth Advisors to discuss care guides, letters of intent, and planning for the future of a loved one with special needs.

Randi shares why documenting routines, preferences, medical needs, behaviors, and daily life details can make a critical difference for future caregivers and long-term support. The conversation also explores the emotional side of planning ahead and why these “living documents” matter somuch for families navigating autism and special needs.

A powerful episode for parents, siblings, and caregiverspreparing for the future while protecting their loved one’s quality of life and independence.

Learn more about Oak Wealth Advisors: http://www.oakwealth.com

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s SpecialCreations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 13 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson sit down with Sharon Vehrs, a former special education teacher who worked with Gregory, to talk about what really helps kids succeed inschool, and beyond.

From individualized education plans (IEPs) and inclusion to real-world life skills, Sharon shares powerful insights from 17 years in the classroom, including how building independence, setting high expectations, and planning early can change a child’s future. Plus, hear about an incredible student-run coffee business that taught skills far beyond academics.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, and educators navigating autism, special education, and the transition to adulthood.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 12 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson are joined by Michelle’s best friend of over 20 years, Jane Claxton, for a heartfelt conversation about friendship, support systems, and raising children side by side. With their kids growing up around the same time, Michelle and Jane share what it has looked like to walk through life together while navigating both typical and unique parenting experiences.

They reflect on how their friendship has evolved over the years, the role of trust and understanding, and how having a close, supportive friend can make a meaningful difference when raising a child with autism. Jane offers her perspective as someone who has had a front-row seat to Gregory’s journey, sharing honest insight into what it’s like to support, learn, and grow alongside a family navigating autism.

Together, they discuss inclusion, shared memories, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who show up, stay consistent, and truly care. This episode highlights the value of long-term friendships and the impact they can have not just on parents, but on their children as well.

This episode offers encouragement and perspective for anyone who values deep friendship, is raising children alongside others, or wants to better understand how meaningful relationships can shape the parenting journey.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 11 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson explore the often misunderstood topic of masking in autism, when individuals suppress natural behaviors in public in order to fit in socially. They discuss how many autistic individuals become deeply aware of being different and work hard to hide stimming, sounds, movements, or coping behaviors in public settings.

Michelle shares Gregory’s experiences navigating concerts, NASCAR races, restaurants, doctor visits, haircuts, and other everyday situations that can create intense sensory overload. She explains how crowded spaces, loud environments, and constant stimulation can lead to exhaustion, shutdowns, and the need to decompress afterward.

Together, they also discuss public reactions, judgment from strangers, and why greater awareness and compassion matter. Michelle offers practical insight into preparing for stressful outings, building routines, and helping autistic loved ones feel safe while still enjoying life experiences.

This episode offers encouragement and perspective for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone wanting to better understand the hidden effort many individuals with autism make every day just to participate in the world.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 10 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson welcome one of Gregory’s favorite high school teachers, Bradd Markusch, for an inspiring conversation about helping students with autism succeed in school and beyond.

With decades of experience in special education, Bradd shares practical guidance for parents navigating high school services, IEPs, 504 plans, evaluations, inclusion, and transition planning for adulthood. He explains how schools can tailor support to each student’s strengths, challenges, and future goals.

The episode also highlights the importance of life skills education, including resumes, job interviews, confidence building, social growth, and preparing students for independence after graduation.

Bradd reflects on teaching Gregory, seeing his growth over the years, and how fun, trust, and encouragement can unlock a student’s potential in powerful ways.

This episode is filled with hope, helpful school insights, and encouragement for parents who want to advocate for their child and prepare them for the future.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg’s growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 9 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson explore one of the most emotional and misunderstood topics for families raising a child with autism: friendship. They discuss what friendship can look like for individuals on the spectrum, how social connection changes through childhood and adulthood, and why meaningful relationships may not always fit traditional expectations.

Michelle shares Gregory’s journey with friendships at school, family bonds, and the challenges that often come after graduation when structured social environments disappear. Together, they talk about inclusion, sleepovers, birthday parties, and the importance of finding people who genuinely accept and value your child.

They also discuss bullying, vulnerability, and how many individuals with autism can be trusting, deeply empathetic, and more susceptible to being taken advantage of both in person and online. Michelle offers honest insight into balancing protection with independence while helping a child safely experience the world.

This episode offers encouragement and practical perspective for parents wondering how to build social opportunities, teach boundaries, and support lasting relationships for their child with autism.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 8 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson sit down with Trudy Bauer Martinez, an experienced occupational therapist and Greg’s first paraprofessional during his first year of school, to explore what school support for children with autism really looks like.

Trudy shares her unique perspective, combining her professional background in occupational therapy with her firsthand experience supporting Greg in the classroom. She explains the role of paraprofessionals, what an IEP (Individualized Education Program) is, and how support systems in schools have evolved over time.

Together, they discuss the challenges of navigating the education system, the importance of early advocacy, and what parents need to know when their child is not being fully supported in the classroom. Trudy also shares how children with autism learn, the importance of repetition, and why focusing on life skills and independence is key.

This episode offers practical insight and encouragement for parents navigating autism in school, helping them better understand their rights, work with educators, and advocate for the best possible outcomes for their child.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 7 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson share how Michelle created a structured learning environment at home to support Greg’s development, both before he started school and alongside his formal education.

Michelle explains why she chose not to fully homeschool, but instead built a home-based classroom to reinforce learning, communication, and life skills in a more personalized way. She shares how this approach helped meet Greg’s unique needs and provided consistency beyond the traditional school setting.

Together, they discuss the balance between school and home support, the importance of structure and routine, and how intentional time at home can make a meaningful impact for children with autism.

If you are a parent looking for ways to support your child with autism outside of school, this episode offers practical insight, encouragement, and a different perspective on creating a supportive learning environment at home.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: http://www.gregorysgifts.com

In Episode 6 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson sit down with Suzy Hites, a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), to explore how speech therapy for autism helps children and adults develop communication skills.

Suzy shares her professional experience working with individuals who face speech, language, and social communication challenges, and explains how therapy can support everything from early language development to meaningful everyday interactions.

Together, they discuss the importance of communication in daily life, the different types of speech and language difficulties individuals may experience, and how personalized speech therapy can build confidence, independence, and connection. Suzy also highlights how this support extends beyond the individual to impact the entire family.

This episode offers valuable insight for parents seeking guidance on speech therapy, communication delays, and how to help their child find and use their voice.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)

In Episode 5 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and Sean Dobson sit down with Sylvia Panzer, Greg’s former middle school special education teacher, to gain a professional perspective on supporting students with autism and other learning differences.

Sylvia shares insights from her years of experience in special education, including what effective support looks like in the classroom, the importance of patient and dedicated teachers, and how educators can help students discover their strengths and build confidence. She also reflects on her experience teaching Greg and the growth she witnessed during his school years.

Together, they discuss the realities of special education for autism, how parents and teachers can work together, and the lasting impact that belief, encouragement, and individualized support can have on a child’s development.

This episode offers valuable insight for parents navigating the school system and looking to better understand how to advocate for their child’s success.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)

In Episode 4 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and her brother Sean Dobson reflect on Greg’s powerful story from the previous episode and share their perspective on his journey and growth over time.

They talk about how raising a child with autism shaped their family’s life, the challenges they faced along the way, and the sacrifices that were made. Michelle opens up about the difficult decision to leave her career to fully support Greg and help him reach his potential.

Together, they reflect on the early expectations placed on Greg and the many things people once said he would never be able to do, and how, step by step, he has made incredible progress beyond those limits.

This episode offers a heartfelt and honest look at autism progress over time, the importance of family support, and the power of perseverance and belief when the path is uncertain.

If you are a parent wondering what progress can look like for a child with autism, this episode provides encouragement, perspective, and hope for the journey ahead.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)

In Episode 3 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Greg takes the mic to share his personal journey toward independent living as an autistic adult.

Greg opens up about what independence means to him, the challenges he has faced, and the life skills he has developed along the way, from daily routines to building confidence and self-reliance. His story offers a real and inspiring look at what is possible for adults on the autism spectrum.

Michelle and Sean reflect on what this milestone has meant for their family, the growth they have witnessed in Greg, and the steps it took to support his path to independence.

Together, they provide an honest and hopeful perspective on autism and independence, encouraging families to believe in progress, growth, and life beyond expectations.

If you are wondering, can an autistic adult live independently? this episode offers real life insight, encouragement, and a powerful example of what that journey can look like.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)

In Episode 2 of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism, Michelle Chabolla and her brother Sean Dobson share their real life experience exploring autism therapies after Greg’s diagnosis.

Michelle walks through the different types of therapy they pursued, what influenced their decisions, and the challenges of figuring out what truly helps a child with autism. Sean adds his perspective as a supportive family member, reflecting on the journey and the impact on their family.

Together, they discuss what worked, what didn’t, and the valuable lessons they learned along the way, offering insight into therapies such as early intervention, communication support, and developmental approaches.

If you are a parent navigating autism therapy options or feeling overwhelmed by where to start, this episode provides practical insight, encouragement, and honest guidance from lived experience.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)

In this first episode of Beyond Expectations: Parenting Autism Podcast, Michelle Chabolla and her brother Sean Dobson share their personal autism diagnosis story and what it really feels like to find out your child is autistic.

Michelle opens up about her initial reactions as a parent, the fears and unknowns she faced, and how her faith carried her through those early moments. Sean offers his perspective as a supportive brother, sharing how the diagnosis impacted their family and how they navigated it together.

Together, they provide an honest and heartfelt look at the beginning of their autism journey, including parenting challenges, emotional struggles, and the first steps toward understanding and hope.

If you are a parent facing a recent autism diagnosis or searching for guidance, this episode offers encouragement, real life insight, and reassurance that you are not alone.

This episode is proudly supported by Gregory’s Special Creations. If you are looking for thoughtful and unique gifts while supporting Greg's growing small business, visit: [http://www.gregorysgifts.com](http://www.gregorysgifts.com)