Podcast · Health

Uniquely Human: The Podcast

by ART19 Uniquely Human · English · Health

Uniquely Human: the Podcast expands the conversation on autism and neurodiversity by amplifying the voices of autistic and neurodivergent individuals and thought leaders in providing insightful, cutting-edge and practical information about the autistic and neurodivergent experience. Hosted by Barry

New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 54 min
Latest: 9 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026 · 59 min

Sensory Health: An Essential Concern for Neurodivergent People with Dr. Virginia Spielmann, PhD, OTR/L

EPISODE 168Sensory Health: An Essential Concern for Neurodivergent People with Dr. Virginia Spielmann, PhD, OTR/LDr. Virginia Spielmann discusses sensory health and its broader implications with Barry and Dave, beyond just auditory or visual sensitivity issues. She explains how sensory processing affects emotional and physical well-being, emphasizing that everyone processes sensations constantly but may experience challenges in how they integrate sensory information. She explains how neurodivergent individuals often face misinterpretation of their behaviors, with observable actions being…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

E167 · 25 Sep 2026 · 53 min
Chefs on the Spectrum: An Innovative Employment Program for Autistic and Neurodivergent People, with Chef Franklin Becker and Chef Joseph Valentino
Episode 167Chefs on the Spectrum: An Innovative Employment Program for Autistic and Neurodivergent People, with Chef Franklin Becker and Chef Joseph ValentinoThis episode features Chef Franklin Becker and Chef Joseph Valentino discussing their work with the Chefs on the Spectrum program at Chef Franklin’s restaurant Point Seven in New York City. Chef Franklin explains how his personal experience as a father of an autistic son inspired him to create the program, which connects autistic adults with meaningful careers in professional kitchens while helping restaurants become more inclusive…
E166 · 11 Sep 2026 · 48 min
How to Make Health Care Neurodiversity-Affirming, with Dr. Mel Houser
Dr. Mel Houser, MD, physician and founder of the All Brains Belong health care community, explains how current healthcare systems fail neurodivergent people. Dr. Mel explains how traditional healthcare settings create barriers that don’t accommodate neurodivergent needs, and how practices in All Brains Belong, guided by universal design principles, emphasize the importance of elevating lived expertise by telling patients “you are the expert in your body.” The discussion also covered how neurodivergent people often present with intertwined neuroimmune conditions that traditional 10-15 minute…
E165 · 28 Aug 2026 · 58 min
Pathological Demand Avoidance: The Lived Experience, with Kendahl Damashek
Episode 165Pathological Demand Avoidance: The Lived Experience, with Kendahl DamashekBarry and Dave speak with Kendall Damashek, a parent coach and expert on the topic of PDA. Kendall shared her personal and professional insights into PDA, explaining it as a survival drive for autonomy and equality rather than a pathology. She discussed the physiological and nervous system responses that individuals with PDA experience, emphasizing that these are not conscious choices but reactions to perceived threats to autonomy. Kendall addressed common misconceptions, such as labeling PDA behaviors as…
E164 · 14 Aug 2026 · 46 min
Autism Outdoors Utah: An Innovative Nature-based Family Support Program with Damon and Tarah Bryan
Episode 164Autism Outdoors Utah:An Innovative Nature-based Family Support Programwith Damon and Tarah BryanDamon and Tarah Bryan, founders of Utah Autism Outdoors, discuss how they created their nature-based program for autistic individuals and their families after their son's autism diagnosis. They discuss how their organization started with simple parent support groups and has grown to include outdoor activities like hiking, river rafting, paddleboarding, and yoga classes in nature. The conversation covered the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activities for regulation and sensory…
E163 · 31 Jul 2026 · 48 min
ALL ABOUT NONSPEAKERS: REFLECTIONS ON AUTISM SPECTRUM NEWS ISSUE WITH AMY LAURENT AND JEN LEPAPE
Episode 163ALL ABOUT NONSPEAKERS: REFLECTIONS ON AUTISM SPECTRUM NEWS ISSUE WITH AMY LAURENT AND JEN LEPAPEThe discussion focused on the recent issue of Autism Spectrum News dedicated to non-speaking individuals. Topics in the issue included common misunderstandings about supporting non-speakers, including the concept of presuming competence, the role of neuromotor issues, and concerns about communication authenticity and influence. The discussion highlighted that many non-speaking individuals can learn to communicate effectively through methods like spelling and typing, though it requires…
E162 · 18 Jul 2026 · 49 min
Two Dads Who Connected with Uniquely Human Interview Barry
EPISODE 162TWO DADS WHO CONNECTED WITH UNIQUELY HUMAN INTERVIEW BARRY. WITH BRAD BROYLES AND NATHAN PALMER, FROM THE POLARIS CONNECTIONThis episode is a replay of The Polaris Connection, an autism parenting podcast hosted by Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer. In this episode, they interview Barry with specific attention given to how Uniquely Human has had a positive impact in the way they see their children and support their development. Brad and Nathan are also the founders of Polaris Academy. The podcast offers advice, expert insights, and real-life stories to help families of neurodivergent…
E161 · 3 Jul 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
Being “Pathologically Genuine”: with Dr. Jim Coleman
EPISODE 161BEING “PATHOLOGICALLY GENUINE”: A DISCUSSION WITH DR. JIM COLEMANJim Coleman, a semi-retired biology professor has had an amazing journey. He discusses his late diagnosis as an autistic person and his journey from feeling like “a banana slug transported into the Mojave Desert” to embracing his neurodiversity. He shared his teaching philosophy of helping every student reach their full potential, noting that over 200 of his students have disclosed being neurodivergent to him. Jim also discussed his work with his therapy dog Brea, who visits schools for autistic children and a…
E160 · 19 Jun 2026 · 48 min
On Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Relationships, with Dr. Cindy Ariel.
On Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Relationships: A Discussion with Dr. Cindy ArielDr. Cindy Ariel is a psychologist specializing in neurodivergent and neurodivergent relationships, and in her discussion with Barry and Dave, she shares insights about the specific challenges and unique qualities of such relationships. Cindy emphasizes that successful relationships require both partners to focus on mutual compatibility rather than trying to fix the other person, and how allowing both partners to be authentic can deepen connection and understanding. Given that relationships are a huge part of…
E159 · 5 Jun 2026 · 50 min
Sleep Disturbances in Autism and Neurodivergent Conditions, with Dr. Beth Malow
Sleep Disturbances in Autism and Neurodivergent Conditions: A Discussion with Dr. Beth Malow, MD, Neurologist and Sleep Disorder Expert Dr. Malow, discusses how sleep problems affect approximately 80% of individuals on the autism spectrum and family members, emphasizing that improving sleep can positively impact every aspect of an autistic person’s life and the life of the family. She explained that sleep deprivation exacerbates existing challenges and can lead to irritability and impaired social communication, which are already core features of autism. Beth framed sleep as a “window” to…
E158 · 22 May 2026 · 54 min
Nature and the Neurodivergent Experience, with Becca Lory Hector
Becca Lory Hector, an autistic self-advocate, has the lived experience of moving through different environments that afford different access to nature, and natural activities. She, Barry, and Dave discuss the benefits of immersion in nature and nature activities and contrast those benefits with the challenges of limited access. They also discuss the importance of awareness and modifying life routines with sensitivity to seasonal changes.Learn more on our website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
E157 · 8 May 2026 · 51 min
Culturally Responsive Services for Neurodivergent Children, with Jordyn Montique
Jordyn Montique’s personal and professional experiences created a passion for addressing cultural responsiveness in serving marginalized children with disabilities, and their families. Jordan, Barry and Dave discuss how essential it is to be in culturally, responsive, and for professionals to be aware of their own cultural biases in developing trusting relationships with children and their families. Learn more and access to the transcripts on our website! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
E156 · 24 Apr 2026 · 38 min
Hans Christian Andersen: His Neurodivergent Journey as Shared by Autistic Children's Author, Sandra Nickel
EPISODE 156HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN: HIS NEURODIVERGENT JOURNEY, AS SHARED BY AUTISTIC CHILDREN’S AUTHOR, SANDRA NICKELIt is now widely accepted that Hans Christian Anderson, renowned Danish author of children’s books, was autistic. Sandra Nickel, an award-winning and autistic children’s author brings Andersen’s story to life in a beautiful book, “The Real Ugly Duckling”. Sandra, Barry and Dave discuss her motivation for writing her book, and the special qualities of his life’s journey that can be so enlightening and affirming for children, adults, and all people who have, or who even may not…
E155 · 10 Apr 2026 · 42 min
Crucial Issues and Future Directions in Autism and Neurodiversity, with SJ Childs
EPISODE 155CRUCIAL ISSUES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS IN AUTISM AND NEURODIVERSITY:A DISCUSSION WITH AUTISTIC PARENT-PROFESSIONAL SARA BRADFORD (AKA SJ CHILDS)Sarah Bradford (aka SJ Childs) is a parent professional, who has a wide range of contact with the autistic and neurodivergent community through her more than 600 interviews in her podcast and annual summits. Barry and Dave discuss a range of issues with her to tap into her knowledge-base and the ability she has to have a thumb on the pulse of areas of need, as well as future directions in supporting the community she is immersed in as a…
E154 · 27 Mar 2026 · 1 hr 8 min
Part 3 of 3 Series Insights from the Lived Experience of an Autistic Gestalt Processor - with Dr. Jaime Hoerricks
Barry and Jess Texeira have a discussion with Dr. Jaime Hoerricks, a special education teacher and author who shared her experiences as an autistic gestalt processor. Jamie explained how her holistic, relationship-based approach to teaching has helped improve outcomes for her students, particularly those who process language and information in a gestalt manner. She emphasized the importance of understanding and supporting students’ unique ways of learning and communicating, rather than trying to fit them into traditional academic molds. The discussion also touched on the challenges faced by…
E153 · 13 Mar 2026 · 53 min
Part 2 of 3 Series - Assisted Communication with Non-speakers What the Naysayers Get Wrong and The Damage They Cause, with David Kaufer
Barry and his guest David Kaufer engage in a “no holds barred” critique of the small group of naysayers who have challenged the rights of non-and minimally, speaking people to have access to their preferred and most effective modes of communication. David shares his knowledge from two perspectives, a dad whose teenage son has experienced success with assisted communication, and as an author and advocate for autistic individuals who has a sharp eye for calling out the misinformation and hypocrisy of those who challenge the lived experience of countless non-speakers, family members and…
E152 · 27 Feb 2026 · 43 min
The Application and Misapplication of Evidence-based Practice: Part 1 of 3 Episodes on Non-Speakers and Gestalt Language Processing
Part 1 of a 3-part series on evidence-based practice and its role in supporting non-speakers and gestalt language processors.
E151 · 13 Feb 2026 · 56 min
Neurodivergence Across Generations: with Daughter and Mom, Rebecca Rosenzweig and Dr. Karen Carson
Barry and Dave discuss neurodivergence across generations in a family, with Rebecca Rosenzweig and her mother Dr. Karen Carson exploring how neurodivergent traits have been present in both maternal and paternal lines, with Karen sharing her late-in-life diagnosis of autism and ADHD, while Rebecca discussed her diagnosis and the challenges of sensory processing differences. They share personal stories about accommodations and support within their family, including how Karen’s intuitive understanding of Rebecca’s needs helped create a supportive home environment. The conversation also covered…
E150 · 30 Jan 2026 · 22 min
A Brazilian Autistic Policeman and Neurodiversity Advocate, with Saulo Barbosa
In this episode, I have a discussion with Saulo Barbosa, a 43-year-old Brazilian autistic police officer, to discuss his experiences and insights about neurodivergence in law enforcement in his home country of Brazil. Saulo shared how my book, “Uniquely Human” inspired him to transform his approach to policing and develop training programs that focus on understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also addressed the impact of the book on Saulo’s life and work, including his current activities in training police officers across Brazil and the importance of…
E149 · 16 Jan 2026 · 1 hr 3 min
Uniquely Human: The Podcast: A Fun and Comprehensive Review of 2025 Episodes with Barry and Dave
Dave and Barry reflect on the themes and highlights from Uniquely Human: The Podcast in 2025, with their typical insight and good humor. They emphasized themes of collaboration and diversity among their guests. They address specific topics including the importance of early developmental support for neurodivergent children, educational inclusion, and cultural perspectives, while also touching on unique profiles and creative supports for neurodivergent individuals. The hosts shared personal insights gained from their guests and expressed their commitment to continuing the podcast in 2026,…
E148 · 2 Jan 2026 · 1 hr
Grow or fold: The Journey of a Dad and His Autistic Son with High Support Needs . With Matt Ross
Matt Ross is a professional who has experienced success as an entrepreneur in different businesses, especially regarding music education. When his son was diagnosed with autism and high support needs, including co-occurring medical conditions, his life and that of his family changed dramatically. Barry and Dave and Matt discuss the decisions he made and the path he decided to take to deal with the challenges he experienced and to best support his son and family.Learn more on Our Website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…
E147 · 19 Dec 2025 · 53 min
Understanding Highly Sensitive People (or Empaths), with Dr. Judith Orloff
An area of great interest is understanding the experience of highly sensitive people, also known as empaths. There are many overlapping characteristics of highly sensitive people with individuals who have neurodivergent profiles (with or without formal diagnoses). Dr. Judith Orloff is a recognized expert in this area and Barry, Dave and Judith discuss the best ways to understand and support empaths, as well as her new book for children, The Highly Sensitive Rabbit.Find out more on our website! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…
E146 · 5 Dec 2025 · 1 hr 7 min
An Innovative Support Program for Neurodivergent College Students, with Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin and Vanessa Harwood
This episode of the Uniquely Human: The Podcast features Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin and Vanessa Harwood discussing innovative supports for neurodivergent college students, highlighting the START program at the University of Rhode Island. The conversation explores common challenges neurodivergent students face upon entering college, the specific support needs, and how these compare to those of neurotypical students. The episode also delves into the mission of the START program and its role in fostering community and inclusion.Find out more and access the transcripts on our website! See Privacy…
E145 · 21 Nov 2025 · 58 min
Connecting with Young Children through Sensoriaffective Integration: A Discussion with Dr. Carrie Alvarado
As an occupational therapist with expertise in child development, Dr. Carrie Alvarado has the unique ability to discuss interrelationships between sensory processing and the development of trustworthy connections with young children. Carrie, Barry and Dave explore the implications of “sensoriaffective” integration in supporting parents of young neurodivergent children.Learn more on our website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
E144 · 7 Nov 2025 · 53 min
Mentoring for Autistic and Neurodivergent Individuals, with David Rivera
David Rivera has experienced the need for, and benefits of mentoring in his own life, and has applied his lived experiences to setting up a non-profit for mentoring others. Barry and Dave discuss the various benefits of mentoring with David, and specifically, “Mentoring Autistic Minds”, the non-profit he has created that welcomes autistic and otherwise neurodivergent individuals to benefit from a community that provides opportunities for mentoring relationships.Learn more on our website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…
E143 · 24 Oct 2025 · 59 min
The Journey of an Autistic Librarian, with Kate Reynolds
Kate Reynolds , also known as the Lavender Librarian, is the founder and director of Storytime Solidarity. Based in Ontario, Canada, Kate has been working in public libraries since 2010. She is also a sought after international keynote speaker, trained opera singer, patient advocate, writer, and content creator with a large social media following. Kate’s international advocacy has brought her to high-level events in Sweden, Hungary, Canada, and the United States. Kate holds masters degrees in musicology and library science at Western University as well as a bachelor of music in vocal…
E142 · 10 Oct 2025 · 59 min
An Autistic Mother reflects on Mothering and Writing, with Julie Green
Julie Green is a professional writer, a mother, and is a late diagnosed autistic women. She, Dave, and Barry discuss what led to her late diagnosis, and the insights she has as an autistic person in raising her now teenage autistic son. Julie has also published professionally on parenting issues and discusses the process of writing a memoir that focuses on motherhood and autism, while simultaneously deepening her understanding of her own autism.Learn more on our Website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…
E141 · 26 Sep 2025 · 54 min
Choosing a Developmental and Relationship Play-based Approach over ABA, with Daria Brown
As a parent, Daria Brown had some difficult decisions to make about choosing the right path for her young autistic child and her family. She chose a developmental relationship- based approach as it resonated with her as the best fit for her child. That choice led to a professional career in supporting parents, and also to her own late diagnosis as an autistic person. Barry and Dave discussed this choice with Daria, and how her journey has evolved.Learn more on our website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at…
E140 · 12 Sep 2025 · 1 hr 6 min
Educational Practices for Neurodivergent Students: We Can Do So Much Better - with Dr. Shelley Moore
Barry and Dave engage in a lively and wide-ranging discussion with educational specialist, Dr. Shelley Moore, internationally known for her progressive and value-based approach for educating neurodivergent students, and indeed, all students. The focus of the discussion is on changes that are needed to help educational systems to be neuro-affirming, inclusive, strength-based, and respectful of different learning styles.Learn more on our website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
E139 · 29 Aug 2025 · 59 min
What It Means to Be 2E and Nurturing Potential for 2E Individuals with Sam Young, M.Ed.
Sam Young is a neurodivergent professional educator who has established Young Scholars Academy, an online community for 2E students and individuals who are exceptionally gifted and exceptionally challenged. Sam, Dave and Barry have a lively discussion on topics ranging from different learning styles, to limitations of public education for 2E students, to the highest priorities and strategies to support 2E students and individuals.Learn more on Our Website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

About Uniquely Human: The Podcast

Uniquely Human: The Podcast is a English health podcast from ART19 Uniquely Human. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: ART19 Uniquely Human
Language: English
Category: Health
New episodes: Every two weeks
Typical length: 54 min
Latest episode: 9 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1532460901

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