Welcome to
Uniquely Wired

Real Talk. Real Stories. Real Support for Young Adults On The Spectrum.

About

Uniquely Wired is a podcast that embraces the diverse voices and lived experiences of young adults on the autism spectrum. Each episode, we create space for honest conversations, powerful storytelling, and practical support — all with the goal of helping individuals navigate life with confidence, clarity, and community.

Why Listen?

Because growing up and finding your place in the world is hard enough — and even more complex when you’re wired differently.

Whether you’re autistic yourself, a parent, a mentor, or just someone who wants to better understand and support the neurodiverse community, this podcast is for you.

What You’ll Hear

Firsthand stories
from young adults on the spectrum navigating school, work, independence, and identity.

Expert interviews
with psychologists, educators, advocates, and families.

Tools and tips
for building confidence, communication skills, and emotional wellness.

Conversations that matter
regarding mental health, relationships, and resilience.

Episodes

Episode No
Where to Listen?
Special Episode: Dr. Rubin featured The Andrew Taylor Show
Help for the Future: Life Transition Support for Autistic Individuals
Episode 1: New Directions: Guiding Young Adults with Autism Into the World
Episode 2: The Power of Wilderness Therapy
Episode 3: The Changing Landscape of Therapeutic Programs
Episode 4: Anxiety, Perfectionism, and the Truth About Hoarding with guest Dr. Greg Chasson
Episode 5: “As they get older, you have to learn to take steps back so that they can have that independence.” — Savannah Paponetti

Quotes from Episode 5: “As they get older, you have to learn to take steps back so that they can have that independence.” — Savannah Paponetti

In this episode of the Uniquely Wired Podcast, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Kellen sit down with Savannah Paponetti, a licensed counselor and Assistant Clinical Director at NDFYA, to talk about how parents can best support their young adult children. They explore the balance between support and enabling, the shift from managing to mentoring, and why setting realistic expectations and boundaries is essential. Savannah also shares the value of involving therapists and parent coaches in creating healthier family dynamics.

“Progress is not always a light switch. It takes time and our job a lot of the time is to help set realistic expectations—realistic goals.”

- Savannah Paponetti

“Depending upon what other issues kids are having with their parents when it comes to communication, having that 3-way dynamic with the therapist, the young adult, and the parent allows for more consistent communication which can benefit goal-setting.”

- Dr. Rubin

“I think there’s a fine line between supporting a child and enabling unhealthy behavior. And I think it’s difficult for parents sometimes to know the difference between those two.”

- Dr. Michael Kellen

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