Autism Labs

05/21/2026

What if a robot could help your loved one when you’re not there?
From grabbing items off a shelf to bringing in a delivery -this isn’t sci-fi anymore… but it comes with real questions about safety and trust.
The future of autism care might be closer than we think…but we have to get it right.

Follow for more real talk on autism and caregiving.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19177222
Watch here: https://youtu.be/mdVmoSO_P3Q?si=1MWdfG-lPzmpvXv6

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

05/19/2026

Every parent wants safety—but what if that’s only the beginning?
This moment reveals a powerful shift: from just protecting our loved ones to truly helping them live.
Because a safe life without growth, joy, or independence… isn’t really a full life.

Follow for more real talk on autism and caregiving.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19177222
Watch here: https://youtu.be/mdVmoSO_P3Q?si=1MWdfG-lPzmpvXv6

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

05/18/2026

This week on Autism Labs, we continue our conversation with Mike Courtney from Daily Living Labs on how technology is reshaping care for individuals with special needs. We explore how homes can be designed to improve safety, reduce daily frustrations, and create more opportunities for independence and enrichment. From AI-powered tools that help families discover real solutions, to simple smart home devices already available today, the focus is on practical ways to support caregivers and improve quality of life.

The big takeaway: technology isn’t replacing care—it’s expanding what’s possible for families every day.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19177222
Watch here: https://youtu.be/mdVmoSO_P3Q?si=1MWdfG-lPzmpvXv6

Visit Daily Living Labs here: www.dailylivinglabs.com

05/15/2026

Most autism and disability families aren’t looking for more talk; they’re looking for real solutions that make daily life easier.
This short highlights how communities like Daily Living Labs are bringing caregivers, makers, and innovators together to solve everyday challenges in profound autism and IDD care.

Follow for more real conversations, support, and practical autism insights that truly matter.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19156880
Watch here: https://youtu.be/NchxW7W2e7U?si=34eAj33Je4GDAbsG

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

05/14/2026

In this Autism Labs podcast conversation with Patti Cole and Will Renfro from Round Rock ISD, we explore what truly supports autistic young adults and individuals with IDD as they transition into adulthood.

We talk about starting early, building real-world experiences, and developing independence through everyday life skills. From community outings to home routines, these moments help build confidence, communication, and long-term success.

A key reminder from the discussion: It’s okay to try, learn, adjust and keep going together.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/18559807
Watch here: https://youtu.be/_XzQ_cXcpj8?si=kc5a0iKB0V1_5z8n

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

In this episode, the Round Rock ISD team emphasizes that successful transition for young adults with autism requires individualized, out-of-the-box approache...

05/13/2026

A different way of thinking doesn’t mean a wrong way, just a different lens on the world, with its own strengths and insights.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19156880
Watch here: https://youtu.be/NchxW7W2e7U?si=34eAj33Je4GDAbsG

05/12/2026

What if technology wasn’t just about devices—but about truly solving real human challenges in autism care?

This short explores how AI and innovation can move beyond gadgets to support families, caregivers, and individuals with profound autism in more meaningful ways.

If you’re navigating this journey, you’re not alone—follow for more real talk on autism, IDD, and practical support.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19156880
Watch here: https://youtu.be/NchxW7W2e7U?si=34eAj33Je4GDAbsG

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

05/11/2026

This week on Autism Labs, Mike Carr speaks with futurist and researcher Mike Courtney about how AI and simple, practical technology can better support individuals with complex special needs. The discussion explores “Daily Living Labs,” community-driven innovation, and real-world tools like AI-generated learning videos and non-wearable sensors that help track sleep and behavior patterns to improve daily outcomes for families and caregivers.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/NchxW7W2e7U?si=34eAj33Je4GDAbsG
Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19156880

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

05/06/2026

This is one of those truths that hits differently when you’ve lived through high-support parenting. Fear can quietly steer choices, reactions, and even long-term planning without us fully realizing it.

In this episode, we unpack how fear shows up in parenting decisions and what it looks like to move from reaction-based choices to more grounded, intentional ones.

🎧 Go back and watch or listen to the full podcast episode for the deeper conversation and real-world insights behind this quote.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19060777
Watch here: https://youtu.be/SwtItu_Vugk?si=7TC_ijunmlKW_P6G

05/04/2026

In this Autism Labs podcast conversation with Patti Cole and Will Renfro from Round Rock ISD on transition planning for students with disabilities.

We talk about:
- Why transition planning should start early (well before age 16)
- The reality of long waitlists for adult services and why timing matters
- How parents can better navigate programs, terminology, and supports
- Why collaboration between families and schools is key
- How behavior often communicates unmet needs
- Simple supports that can make a big difference in independence

A strong reminder that transition isn’t a moment…it’s a long process that works best when families, schools, and communities plan together.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/18535609
Watch here: https://youtu.be/E5DWsUsh2dE?si=Ur05cXR1RtkMfd-4

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/

Autism Transition to Adulthood Programs: Expert Guidance from Round Rock School District

05/01/2026

Sometimes the hardest part of parenting is letting go; even when your child is at the center of everything. But sustainable, high-quality programs require trust, boundaries, and strong leadership. This moment highlights why stepping back can actually protect your child’s future.

Follow for more real talk on autism.

Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2231607/episodes/19060777
Watch here: https://youtu.be/SwtItu_Vugk?si=Ud4NKLOnSxTJ7gLY

If you're interested in joining our private Facebook community for parents and caregivers seeking residential options, guidance and peer support for profoundly autistic adults or adults with complex needs - click here! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Bis7FizDW/