EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kids

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 for a lot of parents, the autism journey doesn’t stop with their child’s diagnosis. at some point… it starts to feel personal. you hear the questions during an evaluation, you start learning more about autism, and suddenly you’re thinking: “this sounds like me…” in this episode, dr. tay walks through what this process actually looks like — why it’s so common, why it can feel complicated, and how it can impact not just you, but your relationship and your entire family dynamic. because this isn’t just about understanding your child. it’s about understanding yourself and what that means for how you move forward. resources ⚡️ other episodes referenced in this episode: 180, 189, 208 ⚡️ autism traits guide — a resource to help you understand diagnostic criteria and recognize patterns across ages and presentations ⚡️ neurodiverse communication masterclass with Dr. Ali — tools and strategies to support communication and connection in your relationship ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services, including booking a free consult call for our adult evaluations in this episode, you’ll hear: and timestamps 00:00 when the autism journey starts to feel personal 03:12 are parents of autistic kids more likely to be neurodivergent? 05:28 how parents begin exploring their own neurotype 09:25 should you consider an adult autism evaluation? 10:40 what happens when others don’t understand 16:00 why relationships can feel harder after a diagnosis 20:45 how to start improving communication as a couple

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 if you’ve ever found yourself googling late at night… “is this autism?” and somehow ended up more confused than when you started — you’re not alone. there’s a lot of information out there. and many time it doesn’t help you actually make sense of what you’re seeing in your child. in this episode, dr. tay breaks down the most common questions parents are searching and why those questions often lead to more confusion instead of clarity. you’ll learn how to move beyond one-off traits and start understanding the patterns that actually matter when it comes to autism so you can feel more confident in what you’re noticing and how to advocate for your child. in this episode, you’ll hear: patterns timestamps 00:00 introduction to common parental questions about autism 05:30 is this autism or just a delay? 08:02 is this autism or something else? 11:54 can my child be autistic and still do x, y, and z? 19:29 they’re fine at school, but not at home — could it still be autism? 23:04 doctors say to wait and see — should i? 27:24 am I overreacting or just anxious? resources from today's episode ⚡️ autism traits guide — a $7 resource to help you understand diagnostic criteria, recognize patterns, and advocate with clarity keep learning from dr. tay ⚡️join EVOLVE the membership and submit your questions for dr. tay to answer ⚡️learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ follow on >> instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 if your child is a selective eater… you’ve probably wondered: are they getting the nutrients they actually need? and if not, what are you supposed to do about it? in this episode, Dr. Tay welcomes back registered dietitian Brittyn Coleman to break down one of the most common (and confusing) questions parents have: when to consider supplements, what actually matters nutritionally, and how to make informed decisions without getting lost in the noise. because while selective eating is common in autistic kids, we can't ignore the impact it has on their body, regulation, and overall well-being. this conversation will help you understand when to trust your gut, what to look for, and how to approach supplementation in a way that actually supports your child... without overwhelm. ✨ ORDER BEST PART HERE (USE CODE "DRTAY" FOR 10% OFF YOUR FIRST ORDER) ✨ in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 understanding nutritional concerns for autistic children 05:51 identifying when to seek help 10:50 the role of supplements in nutrition 14:51 navigating nutritional testing and its challenges 17:02 choosing the right supplements for your child 24:52 navigating supplement labels 28:18 understanding nutrient absorption 31:39 building trust in supplementation 34:13 the importance of third-party testing 36:46 the development of Best Part 41:54 empowering parents in nutrition resources from today's episode ⚡️ Use code "DRTAY" to get 10% off of Best Part | sensory-friendly vitamins for kids >> order here. ⚡️ follow Brittyn on Instagram @autismdietitian and Best Part @bestpartkids ⚡️ interested in Brittyn's picky eating membership? learn more here keep learning from Dr. Tay ⚡️join EVOLVE the membership and submit your questions for Dr. Tay to answer ⚡️learn more about Dr. Tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ follow on >> instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 feeling confused about what to do next with your child? most parents assume that means they need more information. more strategies. more answers. but what if that’s actually the thing keeping you stuck? in this episode, we’re talking about why confusion isn’t a problem to fix and how constantly searching for more information can actually create more overwhelm. if you’ve been overthinking, second-guessing, or feeling like you should “know more” by now… this episode will help you slow down, reconnect, and find clarity in a completely different way. in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 embracing confusion in parenting 03:44 finding your rhythm: the beat of parenting 06:47 judgment and acceptance in parenting 09:25 navigating information overload 12:25 understanding different stages of parenting 15:10 actionable takeaways for parents 17:49 creating clarity amidst confusion 20:33 building foundations for future growth 24:02 the journey of self-discovery in parenting resources ⚡️need support in finding your next best steps? join EVOLVE the membership and submit your questions for dr. tay to answer ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ share your insights from this episode with me >> instagram → @the.dr.tay email → tay@drtaycoaching.com

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 April is "autism month" and with it comes more conversations, more content, and more opinions. and while that can be incredibly valuable… it can also feel overwhelming. for many parents, this month brings up a mix of emotions: gratitude, frustration, confusion, and sometimes even pressure to feel a certain way about your child’s diagnosis. in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down what autism acceptance actually means — beyond the surface-level messaging — and why this concept can feel harder than it sounds. you’ll also hear how to navigate the increased noise during this month, protect your own capacity, and begin to define what acceptance looks like in your real, day-to-day parenting. in this episode, you’ll hear: you timestamps 00:00 understanding autism month: awareness vs. acceptance 09:02 the importance of acceptance in autism 18:09 defining acceptance: beyond the surface 26:51 navigating emotions: acceptance in parenting 34:04 embracing the journey of acceptance resources ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to have your questions answered and have more in-depth education like you heard in today's episode ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ follow me on instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 you started this journey trying to understand your child… and somewhere along the way, you started to notice traits yourself in it too. for many parents, this moment is both clarifying and confusing. you recognize the patterns. but then the question becomes: what do I actually do? in this episode, dr. tay walks through what it looks like to explore your own neurodivergence as an adult, including when self-identification feels enough and when you might want more clarity. she also breaks down what an autism evaluation can actually look like for adults (and why it often doesn’t need to be the same long, overwhelming process many families go through with their children). in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 Understanding Neurodivergence in Families 10:04 The Importance of Self-Identification 19:10 Navigating Evaluations and Diagnoses 28:31 Finding Clarity and Supporting resources ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services, including booking a free consult call for our adult evaluations ⚡️ explore DSM-5-TR diagnostic criteria for autism (made accessible by @blackspectrumscholar as part of their free resource library) ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to have you questions answered like mentioned in today's episode ⚡️ follow me on instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

about this episode (+ scroll for resources) 👇 do you ever feel like there are a million things going on with your child and no clear place to start? maybe you’re wondering if it’s autism. or anxiety. or adhd. or something else entirely. and every time you try to figure it out, it just feels more tangled. in this episode, dr. tay walks you through how to untangle the overwhelm, without needing all the answers first. using the analogy of a tangled ball of yarn, she breaks down how to find your starting point, build momentum, and take meaningful action (instead of staying stuck in overthinking). in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 navigating the overwhelm of “where do i start?” 03:50 understanding autism evaluations and differential diagnosis 07:01 why comprehensive evaluations can bring clarity 09:45 identifying underlying factors (anxiety, adhd, and more) 12:42 using data to recognize patterns 16:34 collaboration, ai tools, and building insight 19:19 taking action and finding your next step 21:55 exploring therapy options and supports 24:59 moving out of overconsumption and into momentum 28:01 final reflections and next steps resources ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership to ask your burning questions and watch the masterclass on looping and cognitive inflexibility ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services, including comprehensive evaluations and group therapy support ⚡️ follow me on instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

is an autism diagnosis actually helpful for your child — or could it hurt them? many parents hesitate to pursue an evaluation because they worry about labels, stigma, or putting their child “in a box.” but avoiding the diagnosis doesn’t change whether your child is autistic. what it changes is how clearly you understand your child and how effectively you can support them. in this episode of EVOLVE with Dr. Tay, we break down both the logistical and emotional realities of autism diagnosis. Dr. Tay explains why a diagnosis can unlock support, provide language for self-understanding, and help families move toward greater acceptance and advocacy while also acknowledging the grief and stigma that can arise along the way. this episode is especially helpful if you’re in the pre-diagnosis stage or if your child was recently diagnosed and you’re still processing what that means for your family. in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 understanding autism diagnosis: a parent’s dilemma 06:54 logistical benefits of an autism diagnosis 13:36 emotional aspects of autism diagnosis 19:06 navigating stigma and self-advocacy resources ⚡️ learn more about autism evaluations through Dr. Tay Concierge Clinical Care https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ if your child already has a diagnosis and you’re wondering how to talk with them about it, check out the masterclass inside EVOLVE the membership https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

when should medication be part of your child’s support plan? for many parents of autistic kids, medication feels heavy. scary. final. like something you only consider when everything else has failed. but what if medication isn’t a cure-all or a last resort — what if it’s simply one tool in the toolkit? in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down the nuanced role medication can play in supporting autistic children, especially when dysregulation, capacity, and mental health are limiting your child’s ability to access therapy, accommodations, or even their own joy. this isn’t about quick fixes. it’s about expanding capacity. in this episode, you’ll hear: 00:00 introduction to medication support for autistic children 00:27 common misconceptions about medication 00:56 benefits and considerations for medication use 01:23 medication alongside therapeutic approaches 02:16 research insights on medication and behavioral support 03:08 using medication for anxiety and emotional dysregulation 03:33 recognizing when medication might be needed 04:03 indicators of nervous system dysregulation in therapy 05:06 medication as a tool 06:14 understanding stimulant medications (e.g., adderall, ritalin) 06:43 the “capacity cup” metaphor 07:38 teaching internal regulation alongside medication 09:28 anxiety management and exposure-based therapies 10:39 environmental stressors and medication’s role 12:29 medication optimization and careful dosing 13:20 addressing fears about personality loss and side effects 14:42 weighing risks and benefits to improve quality of life 15:31 advocacy tips for working with prescribing providers 16:42 invitation to medication consideration masterclass 17:11 closing remarks resources ⚡️ episodes referenced include 94 and 139 with Dr. Arielle Rubin and 177 with Dr. Stacy Greeter ⚡️ medication consideration masterclass (inside EVOLVE the membership): join here >> https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + clinical services: https://drtaylorday.com

are you constantly wondering if you’re doing too much… or not enough… for your autistic child? in autism parenting, it can feel like every decision is high stakes. you hear “lower demands.” you hear “do exposure.” you hear “presume competence.” you hear autistic voices sharing lived experience. and somehow, you’re still left wondering what actually applies to your child. this episode won’t give you a black-and-white formula. but it will help you understand how to think through this question in a grounded, regulated way — and how to navigate the tension between accommodation and over accommodation without swinging to extremes. in this episode, you’ll hear: timestamps 00:00 the importance of nuance in autism parenting 03:05 navigating accommodation vs over accommodation 11:29 understanding exposure therapy and its nuances 16:08 balancing structure and flexibility in parenting 23:08 empowering autonomy and self-advocacy in children resources ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership and be live for the upcoming masterclass on this topic (March 2026) ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach + clinical services ⚡️ follow me on instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 screen time doesn’t have to be all or nothing. in this episode, Dr. Tay sits down with Ash Brandin, @thegamereducator and author of Power On, to talk about balancing technology in a way that feels realistic, empowering, and aligned with your child’s brain, especially in neurodivergent children. this conversation moves beyond fear-based messaging and into nuance — exploring regulation, accommodations, executive functioning, transitions, and digital safety through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. in this episode: timestamps 00:00 introduction and today’s topic: screen time and technology 00:37 meet Ash Brandin 02:47 Ash’s journey to educating parents on technology 04:50 the importance of neutrality in technology use 06:10 balancing screen time: practical tips and insights 18:18 teaching technology skills: a lifelong approach 22:40 the benefits of screen time for autistic children 25:15 video games as accommodating environments 27:22 observing and learning from kids’ screen time 27:44 addressing hesitancy in using accommodations 29:58 engaging with kids through screen time 30:40 the importance of digital safety 31:48 exploring the book’s structure and key concepts 32:13 understanding access, behavior, and content in screen time 36:28 strategies for managing screen time transitions 40:04 final thoughts and resources RESOURCES ⚡️ follow Ash on Instagram and on Substack ⚡️ order Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family ⚡️ join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning. dive into the included masterclass to dive deeper into navigating screen time and its benefits for autistic kids ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 in this special episode, Dr. Tay shares a live coaching session with Winter, a mom of a 6-year-old autistic boy. listeners are invited inside a real, unscripted coaching conversation — one that mirrors the questions, emotions, and uncertainty so many parents carry quietly. together, Dr. Tay and Winter explore what it’s like to sit with grief and acceptance at the same time, to question whether current supports are actually helping, and to feel the pressure to “do enough” while also wanting space to breathe. Dr. Tay helps Winter slow things down, name what’s coming up beneath the urgency, and reflect on what alignment, confidence, and quality of life could look like for her family. this episode offers a window into how parent coaching can help you: if you’ve ever wondered what parent coaching actually sounds like — or wished for a space to talk things through out loud with someone who truly gets it — this episode is for you. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction and episode overview 00:06 meet winter and her journey 02:52 navigating early diagnosis and initial support 04:02 challenges, grief, and emotional struggles 11:57 finding the right support and community 20:30 navigating autism as a first-time parent 20:43 the pressure of early intervention 21:53 the impact of how diagnoses are delivered 23:04 support systems and clinical care 23:47 parenting with confidence and love 27:09 concerns about the future 33:33 advocating for disability needs in public spaces 37:25 building community and self-advocacy 39:54 closing reflections and resources RESOURCES ⚡️ Connect with Winter @aspectrumfueledpurpose ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey, with the option to add on a 1:1 coaching session like this ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + other services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 if you’ve recently received an autism diagnosis — or you’re pretty sure one is coming — this episode is for you. many parents expect to feel relief after a diagnosis. sometimes that happens briefly. but more often, things actually feel heavier, more confusing, and more urgent. in this episode, Dr. Tay breaks down why that happens, names the “trap of urgency” so many families fall into, and explains what actually helps in this early post-diagnosis phase. want more support? the You Got The Diagnosis. Now What? program was designed for you! a four-week, neurodiversity-affirming program designed to support families in the space between diagnosis and action — focused on clarity, self-trust, and sustainable next steps. LEARN MORE HERE: https://drtay.thrivecart.com/you-got-the-diagnosis-now-what CHAPTERS 00:00 navigating the autism diagnosis journey 02:26 understanding why diagnosis can create more questions 12:41 clarity over urgency: slowing down without falling behind 23:59 introducing support for families in the post-diagnosis phase RESOURCES ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and other services https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 this episode marks a big milestone — 200 episodes — and a very human return after an unplanned pause. Dr. Tay shares openly about what led to stepping back, including grief, perfectionism, and the pressure she felt to make the “right” episode for this moment. from there, the conversation widens into something deeper: how personal values, neurodiversity-affirming care, and what’s happening in our country are deeply intertwined. this is an episode about alignment — as a parent, as a clinician, and as a human — and why staying silent doesn’t feel like an option when your values are at stake. CHAPTERS 00:00 return from hiatus and celebrating 200 episodes 05:48 navigating personal challenges, caregiving, and grief 12:19 the intersection of personal beliefs and professional practice 20:37 the importance of human connection in parenting 26:23 values, advocacy, and human rights 33:05 core values in clinical practice 36:38 affirming neurodivergence through collaboration 40:15 integrity, repair, and whole-family healing 44:00 living in alignment with your values 49:43 reflecting on privilege and responsibility in advocacy RESOURCES ⚡️ join EVOLVE the membership: a space for questions, community, and neurodiversity-affirming guidance https://drtaylorday.com/membership ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach and current services https://drtaylorday.com ⚡️ continue learning from me >> Instagram @the.dr.tay TikTok @the.dr.tay

this week’s episode was inspired directly by a diagnostic feedback session inside dr. tay’s clinical practice. one parent asked a question that so many others wonder: “should i be teaching social skills to my autistic child… and if so, how?” in this episode, dr. tay breaks down why traditional social skills approaches often miss the mark, how they can unintentionally promote masking, and what a neurodiversity-affirming approach looks like instead. you’ll learn: TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction and episode inspiration 00:21 diagnostic feedback and recommendations 01:57 therapeutic approaches and parent coaching 04:34 addressing social skills in autistic children 05:52 neurodiversity affirming approaches 08:00 practical strategies and role-playing 12:04 real-life situations and empathy building 16:16 parental involvement and social skills groups 23:03 conclusion and next steps RESOURCES ⚡️need more support navigating this? Join EVOLVE the membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space to ask YOUR questions. ⚡️ learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services, including her small group therapy model, at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ keep learning Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of supporting parents in the autistic journey. Joined by Lisa Candera, a single mom and coach for parents of autistic children, they discuss the role of parents as primary co-regulators for their children as well as strategies for staying regulated, building self-trust, and supporting their children's behaviors. They also explore systemic issues, coping mechanisms, and the need for a holistic approach that includes listening to autistic voices. Despite the focus on parents, the core message underscores the importance of a balanced support system for the entire family unit. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:28 Lisa Candera's Background and Passion 00:45 The Role of Parents in Autism Support 01:28 Podcast Introduction and Disclaimer 02:30 Lisa's Journey as a Single Mom 05:25 Challenges and Early Diagnosis 06:48 Navigating Resources and Support Systems 08:27 The Importance of Parental Education 16:04 Understanding OCD and Autism 22:59 Coaching and Self-Regulation 28:21 Understanding the Distinctness of OCD 28:30 The Complexity of Compulsions 29:01 Parental Instincts and Fix-It Mode 29:31 The Illogical Nature of OCD 30:06 OCD and Autism: The Just Right Feeling 31:22 Building Acceptance in Parenting 32:22 The Psychological Definition of Acceptance 33:46 Behavioral Issues and Parental Pressure 35:05 Supporting Parents: Tips and Strategies 37:24 Validating Experiences Before Problem Solving 38:01 Common Challenges and Seeking Support 39:21 Navigating Grief and Acceptance 40:02 Ambiguous Grief and GOMO 41:17 Being the Safe Person and Self-Advocacy 44:31 Parental Regulation and Child's Behavior 46:36 Building a Well-Rounded Support Team 48:29 The Power of Tone and Voice 52:12 Conclusion and Resources RESOURCES ⚡️ Continue learning from Lisa Candera at theautismmomcoach.com/ and @theautismmomcoach on Instagram and Facebook ⚡️ Download the Meltdown Action Plan ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this mini episode, Dr. Tay discusses impulse control for autistic children and offers proactive strategies to develop this skill without inducing shame. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of a regulated state for teaching impulse control and using fun, engaging games like Red Light, Green Light and Simon Says. The episode also answers questions from parents, such as managing inappropriate comments and excessive affectionate behaviors. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:24 Inspiration Behind the Episode 01:30 Understanding Impulse Control in Autistic Children 03:02 Proactive Skill Building Strategies 03:53 Engaging Activities to Teach Impulse Control 06:29 Addressing Common Questions from Parents 15:36 Impulse Control vs. Other Behavioral Issues 17:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts RESOURCES ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + suggest topics for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 In this episode, Dr. Tay discusses the often overlooked yet crucial concept of interoception and its importance in supporting autistic children. Joined by guest Kelly Mahler, an experienced occupational therapist specializing in this area, they dive into what interoception is, how it impacts autistic children, and actionable strategies to improve interoceptive awareness. The conversation also touches on the significance of adult modeling, school-based interventions, and a comprehensive approach to sensory regulation. Additionally, they explore the connection between interoception and autistic burnout, providing valuable insights and resources for parents and educators. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 02:04 Guest Introduction: Kelly Mahler 02:11 Kelly's Journey into Interoception 04:17 Understanding Interoception 08:57 Interoception in Autistic Individuals 14:44 Building Interoceptive Awareness in Kids 23:16 Challenges and Advocacy in Schools 25:25 Understanding Interoception and Compliance 26:01 Adult Modeling and Focus Area Experiments 28:59 Sequential Process: Body, Emotion, Action 32:18 Challenges in School-Based OT and Sensory Regulation 38:47 Autistic Burnout and Interoception 46:52 Resources and Final Thoughts RESOURCES ⚡️ check out all of Kelly’s resources → www.kelly-mahler.com ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 dr. tay dives deep into perfectionism — how it shows up in autism parenting, in clinical work, and even in content creation. she shares personal reflections, a powerful story from her group therapy model, and a reminder that perfectionism can hide behind our best intentions to help. this episode explores: TIMESTAMPS 00:00 introduction: what perfectionism looks like in parenting 00:54 reflections from clinical practice and lived experience 01:33 perfectionism behind the scenes of podcasting and social media 02:36 when “doing it right” becomes doing too much 12:46 finding the balance between accommodation and over-accommodation 21:17 learning to release control and practice repair over perfection 25:15 a group reflection on perfectionism and shared growth 35:42 closing encouragement and ways to stay connected RESOURCES ⚡️ join evolve: the membership — a space for parents to reflect, connect, and grow through their autism journey. ⚡️ learn more about dr. tay’s whole family approach and current clinical services at drtaylorday.com. ⚡️ continue learning from me and submit questions (they may be featured on a future episode!) instagram → @the.dr.tay tiktok → @the.dr.tay

ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay sits down with Jessie Caraway, creator of the If You Know One Project, to talk about her family’s journey, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how the project grew out of a desire to build community and awareness. They reflect on the long road to an autism diagnosis, reframing “high support needs,” and the importance of seeing each autistic child through a lens of humanity rather than fear or deficit. Jessie shares how her journey with her daughter, Eliza, inspired her to create the If You Know One Project — a space that celebrates individuality and connection through neurodiversity-affirming awareness, apparel, and storytelling. Together, Dr. Tay and Jessie explore what it means to move forward with compassion, to hold complexity in parenting, and to remind families that every story — every one — matters. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 00:29 Host’s Background and Podcast Purpose 01:31 Guest Introduction and Family Background 02:01 Starting the If You Know One Project 03:29 Community Engagement and Resource Sharing 06:50 Challenges in the Diagnosis Journey 11:36 Navigating the Healthcare System 18:23 The If You Know One Project’s Mission and Future Goals 22:59 Navigating the Journey Together 23:22 Support for Families 24:04 Community and Connection 24:33 Understanding High Support Needs 25:22 The Value of Individuality 26:20 Perspective Shifts and Humanity 28:24 Building Trust and Communication 32:19 Sharing Stories and Advocacy 36:12 Encouragement for Parents 38:56 Final Thoughts and Resources 💛 RESOURCES ⚡️ Connect with Jessie Caraway + The If You Know One Project: Instagram → @jess_ifyouknowone Etsy Shop → If You Know One ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay