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PODCAST

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert Insights & Proven Resources

Brad Broyles & Nathan Palmer

The Polaris Connection is the ultimate autism parenting podcast for families, caregivers, and professionals navigating the world of autism and special needs. Each episode shares real stories, expert insights, and practical strategies to support children with autism, strengthen family life, and connect with the broader autism community. From special education resources and behavioral tips to advocacy guidance and emotional support, The Polaris Connection provides actionable tools for parents,

kids & family parenting

All Episodes

56:04

Navigating Relationships and Parenting Special Needs...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/04/08

Send us Fan Mail Discover practical insights on maintaining healthy relationships and effective parenting strategies for families with autistic or special needs children. Join us as Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife shares her personal journey, professional expertise, and compassionate advice for couples and parents navigating these unique challenges. In this episode you will find: Dr. Jennifer’s background in relationship and intimacy coachingHer personal story as a mother of a young adult w...

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48:06

The Surprising Science Behind How Music Calms Anxiety...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/04/01

Send us Fan Mail Unlock the transformative power of music as a tool for connection, confidence, and healing... especially for children with unique needs. This episode dives into how inclusive choral programs like Phoenix Children’s Chorus are breaking barriers, fostering growth, and revealing the incredible potential within every child, regardless of their abilities. Anne Coryell, a dedicated music educator and advocate, shares inspiring stories of how music literacy, sign language, mov...

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33:54

Dad Bod, Big Heart, Spectrum Smart with Brad and Nathan

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/03/25

Send us Fan Mail This episode of "The Polaris Connection" podcast focuses on the role of fathers in parenting, particularly in families with autistic children. The hosts discuss the common perception that mothers are more involved in the care of autistic children and emphasize the importance of fathers being actively engaged. They explore topics such as the difference between responding and reacting, the significance of understanding rather than trying to "fix" children, and the unique roles ...

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45:30

The Hidden Power of Connection in Autism: How Small...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/03/18

Send a text Are we really giving our kids the best shot at a full life? Here's what Carrie Cariello has learned from the stories and struggles of parents navigating autism. Drop a 💙 if you're doing your best and needed to hear this today. As a parent of a child with autism, we’ve seen how small moments of connection, like petting a dog or sharing a cookie are real victories. Our guest, Carrie shares how understanding meltdowns, building safety, and loving on purpose can transform our

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42:59

Care 4 the Caregivers: Support and Resources for YOU

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/03/11

Send a text This episode features Dr. Gabrielle Ficchi and Michele Thorne discussing Care for the Caregivers, an Arizona-based nonprofit, with hosts Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer. They cover the organization’s founding story, mission to support caregivers of children with disabilities, and efforts to combat caregiver isolation through therapy, parent training, and community events. The conversation emphasizes disability pride, the social model of disability, and the principle of presum...

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47:20

Why Focusing on Skill Gaps Instead of Behaviors...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/03/04

Send a text Listen as our guest, Eileen Devine discusses Brain First Parenting, focusing on supporting neurodivergent children by understanding their unique brain functions and nervous systems rather than just their behaviors. Key themes include: Brain-First Approach: Emphasizes the importance of recognizing neurodiversity as a difference, not a defect, and the need for tailored accommodations.Behavior as a Symptom: Behaviors are seen as signals of underlying skills gaps and environment...

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40:22

The Power of Early Identification and Intervention in...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/02/26

Send a text At Starlight Behavior Academy, every decision is intentional. Every routine has purpose. Every moment matters. In this episode of Polaris Connection, Director Haley Palmer shares the powerful impact of early identification and early intervention for autistic children. From predictable morning routines to thoughtfully structured learning environments, Starlight Academy focuses on helping young learners feel safe, confident, and ready to engage each day. Because when children under...

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46:16

The Hidden Power of Educational Freedom for...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/02/18

Send a text Unlock the transformative power of educational freedom for children with autism and neurodiversity. In this episode, George Khalaf, an expert in public policy and founder of innovative school models, reveals how parents can champion their kids’ unique needs and unlock opportunities previously out of reach. Discover why the conventional system often falls short and how advocacy, storytelling, and strategic programs like ESA can create real change. This episode matters because long-...

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44:32

Protecting Autism Services: What Families Need to...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/02/11

Send a text In this episode of The Polaris Connection, Brad and Nathan sit down with Ann Monahan, Board President of the Arizona Autism Coalition and longtime healthcare and policy advocate, to talk about how autism and IDD services are changing and what families can do right now to stay informed and prepared. Ann shares how the Arizona Autism Coalition brings together families, providers, educators, insurers, and legislators to collaborate, share resources, and solve problems together — with...

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35:07

Why Most Autism Environments Fail and How Small...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/02/04

Send us a text Discover innovative home and school environment strategies to support children on the autism spectrum. Host Brad and Nathan explore practical design tips, sensory regulation tools, and neurological insights that can transform daily living spaces into calming, engaging environments for autistic children. Key Points: Tailor environment modifications to individual needs, avoiding one-size-fits-all solutions.Use adaptive lighting, like Kelvin-range bulbs, to influence focus and reg...

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50:01

How to Help your Autistic Child Transition into...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/01/28

Send us a text In this episode of "The Polaris Connection," the hosts Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer engage with Nicole Kuck, a certified legal document planner, to discuss the intricacies of planning for children with special needs as they transition into adulthood. The conversation highlights the importance of proactive planning for legal guardianship, financial support, and decision-making authority once a child turns 18. Nicole emphasizes the need for parents to understand the available g...

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43:28

Autism and Community: Sunshine Acres’ Legacy of Care

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/01/21

Send us a text In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we sit down with Kevin Humphrey, the executive director of Sunshine Acres, to explore the unique approach of this children's home in supporting autistic children. Kevin shares personal stories and insights into the challenges and triumphs of raising a child on the autism spectrum, as well as the broader mission of Sunshine Acres to provide a nurturing environment for neurodivergent children. The conversation highlights the importance o...

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43:35

Hands-On Minds: How STEM Unlocks Strengths in...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/01/14

Send us a text In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we sit down with Beth Garcia, STEM Teacher at Polaris Academy, to explore how STEM education helps autistic children discover their strengths, build confidence, and thrive through hands-on learning. Many parents of autistic children search for ways to support learning beyond traditional classrooms. This conversation dives into why STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—naturally aligns with autistic ways of thinking, offering ...

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53:06

How Movement Regulates the Autism Nervous System,...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2026/01/07

Send us a text In this episode of The Polaris Connection, hosts Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer sit down with Dallas and Mackenzie Klenke, founders of Kenzie’s Kids Mobile Gym, to explore the powerful connection between movement, behavior regulation, and confidence for autistic and neurodivergent children. Dallas and Mackenzie share how Kenzie’s Kids began as a passion project rooted in special education, fitness, and a deep desire to serve underserved communities. What started as simple movem...

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22:34

Small Wins, Big Growth: Setting Our North Star in...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/12/31

Send us a text As a new year begins, many families feel pressure to set big goals—but for families of autistic and neurodivergent children, progress often looks different. In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we explore how to approach goal setting for neurodivergent kids in 2026 with clarity, compassion, and confidence. This conversation focuses on how parents, caregivers, and educators can talk with autistic children about goals in ways that are developmentally appropriate, empowering...

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25:29

The Nativity isn’t just a Christmas story—it’s the...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/12/24

Send us a text In this special Christmas episode, we reflect on the first Christmas through faith, family, and hope, as the Nativity story comes to life in a truly meaningful way. A special group of children joins us to share the story of the birth of Jesus in their own heartfelt voices, reminding us of the innocence, wonder, and truth at the center of Christmas. Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer then offer a powerful parent-focused faith reflection, walking listeners through what Joseph and Mar...

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47:12

How Parents Can Navigate Arizona's DDD Services for...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/12/17

Send us a text Navigating Arizona’s Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) can feel overwhelming for parents of autistic children—but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we sit down with Rebecca Waters from Watch Me Grow Pediatric Therapy , a trusted expert who works closely with families to help them understand, access, and maximize Arizona DDD services for autism. Rebecca shares insider knowledge and practical, step-by-step guidance on how parents...

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43:22

Navigating the Holiday Season on the Spectrum with...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/12/10

Send us a text In this insightful and heart-centered episode, we sit down with Kelly Willis to explore what the holiday season looks like for autistic children and families who don’t always experience a “traditional” celebration. Kelly opens up about her own journey navigating holiday expectations, sensory challenges, and the pressure to participate in events that may feel overwhelming for children on the spectrum. With warmth and honesty, Kelly shares real-life examples, including how her fa...

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47:27

How Pawsitive Pets Build Stronger Autism Connections...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/12/03

Send us a text Discover how animals unlock unexpected breakthroughs for autistic children in this inspiring episode of The Polaris Connection. Founder Tosha Tharp-Gaitanis shares the remarkable journey behind Pawsitive Friendship, an innovative program using therapy animals to support communication, sensory regulation, emotional connection, and confidence building for neurodivergent kids. Learn how playful, structured interactions with certified dogs and other therapy animals help children de...

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41:40

Gratitude Through the Spectrum: A Thanksgiving...

The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert... ·

2025/11/26

Send us a text On this special Thanksgiving episode, join Brad Broyles, Nathan Palmer and Mr.K in a special addition about gratitude, in addition listen to a select number of parents share their gratitude this Thanksgiving season. This special Thanksgiving edition of Gratitude Through the Spectrum, Mr. K brings together parents from Polaris Academy and Starlight Behavior Academy for an open, heartfelt conversation about gratitude, autism, and family life during the holiday season. This ...

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41 results

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