Episodes

In today's episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House", Amy and Kevin Shope get raw and emotional on the many hardships they have navigated as parents of an adult son with autism. For new listeners, Amy and Kevin really give listeners a realistic view on what their everyday life looks like with Dylan. Later on in the episode, they share a medical emergency they had to face on Thanksgiving. This episode is a reminder of the daily challenges faced for people with autism along with their families and ca...

On today's episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House", Amy and Kevin Shope had the pleasure to interview Melissa Archer who founded the nonprofit Jasmynn's Voice, named in honor of her daughter. Jasmynn is a 24 years old who is functionally non-verbal. Her parents wanted to ensure from a young age that she would have the tools to communicate. They found that technology was able to bridge the gap of communication between her and her world. The mission of their nonprofit is to not only provide iPads fo...

In this episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House," Amy and Kevin Shope interview the Mayor of Struthers, Catherine Cercone Miller. Mayor Cat has an educational background in psychology and autism and her desire for helping all the people in her community shines through this episode. The City of Struthers generously donated a piece of land within the city for the first new build for Dylan's House. Mayor Cat is passionate about making this project a priority and rallying the city of Struthers around ...

In this episode, Amy and Kevin Shope interview Crissi Jenkins, the Chief Growth Officer at Potential Development. Potential Development School, located in Youngstown, Ohio, is a pre-k through 12th grade school for students diagnosed with autism. Their mission is to provide an individualized education for each student in a safe, state-of-the-art environment designed to empower them to reach their fullest potential in life. Crissi shares valuable information on how Potential Development is diffe...

In this episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House", Amy and Kevin Shope interview Rob Gorski, an influential blogger and podcast host, best known as "The Autism Dad". Since 2009, his mission has been to educate, validate, and provide support to parents raising children with disabilities while he has transformed his personal experiences as a father of three autistic children into a resource for parents across the globe. Rob’s work has earned recognition from CNN, ABC News, BBC Worldwide, the Tamron Ha...

In this episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House," we were thrilled to get a better glimpse of what it was like for our daughter Anderson growing up with a sibling with autism. Anderson relives all the trials and tribulations and everything in between she had to manage as she was navigating her childhood and teenage years alongside Dylan. She shares some vulnerable memories about family outings that didn't always go as planned. Anderson is currently 20 years old and a junior at Bowling Green Univer...

Three Key Takeaways from this Episode: 1. Community Support and Engagement One of the major highlights from our recent events, including an educational event and a fundraiser, was the overwhelming support and engagement from our community. It was heartwarming to see parents, caregivers, and individuals with autism come together to share their stories, seek support, and connect with resources. The power of community in navigating challenges and celebrating successes cannot be understated. 2. Impo...

In this episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House," we had the pleasure of interviewing Bill Whitaker, the superintendent of the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Bill shared valuable insights into the services provided by the board for individuals with developmental disabilities in Mahoning County. He highlighted the importance of building relationships with schools to support individuals transitioning into adulthood. Bill also discussed the collaborative efforts within the Mahon...

I am thrilled to announce the latest episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House" podcast, where we had the honor of hosting Mahoning County Prosecutor, Gina DiGenova. In this insightful episode, we delved into navigating autism, community outreach, and the impactful programs initiated by Gina. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation: Special Needs Registry: Gina introduced the Mahoning County Special Needs Registry, a vital mode of communication between individuals with special needs and la...

In this episode of "Welcome to Dylan's House," my wife Amy and I discuss our experiences with professional caregivers in the context of raising our son, Dylan, who has severe autism. We share stories of recruiting caregivers, balancing trust and control, and the impact caregivers have had on our lives. We highlight the challenges and rewards of the caregiver role, emphasizing the importance of their work in supporting individuals with autism. We also touch on our nonprofit's mission to support c...

Join us as we explore the unique joys and challenges of traveling with an autistic child. In this episode, we'll share personal stories and practical tips for creating memorable and stress-free vacations for families on the autism spectrum. Discover strategies for planning, communication, sensory-friendly experiences, and creating a supportive environment that enhances the travel experience for everyone.

In this episode, we sit down with Jimmy Suttman, the visionary founder of Purple Cat, an organization dedicated to providing phenomenal services to the autistic community. Join us as we delve into Jimmy's inspiring journey, share stories, and his passion for empowering individuals on the autism spectrum. The innovative programs offered by Purple Cat are making a difference in the lives of many. Discover the impact of their work and gain insights into the importance of inclusivity and support for...

Having a child with severe Autism takes you on a trip you never planned for, but you end up at the destination you were meant to be at.

In this emotional and inspiring episode, Autism mom Tammy talks about her son Artie, her family, and the special bond our families share. Welcome to Dylan's House is our families real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward. Learn more at dylanshouse.org.

Welcome to Dylan's House is our family's real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward. In this episode we respond to a followers request, and discuss our history of dealing with our school district, IEP meetings, attorneys, worry and stress, all to ensure the best school placement for our Autistic son.

In this episode, our friend and fellow Autism parent Lisa Robinson shares more heartwarming and hilarious stories of navigating Autism.

Dylan's House is our family's real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward.

Welcome to Dylan's House is our family's real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward.

Welcome To Dylan's House is our family's real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward. Dylan's House is a non profit organization providing housing and promoting caregiver support for Autistic individuals. Follow Dylan's House on Facebook, TikTok, and LinkedIn, ThisIsDylansHouse on Instagram, and learn more at dylanshouse.org.

Kevin and Amy discuss their decision to transition their Autistic son Dylan out of their family home and into supported living at the age of 17. Welcome To Dylan's House is our families real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward.

Welcome To Dylan's House is our families real and raw story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward.

Welcome To Dylan's House is our families real story of navigating Autism and how it inspired us to pay it forward.

A couple's first attempt at podcasting to tell the real and raw story of raising a child with severe Autism. Hear how it transformed their family and inspired them to pay it forward. Join Us. Meet us. Give back.