Episode 7-Andrew Taylor on Mentoring, Mental Health & the Power of the Outdoors Artwork

Uniquely Wired Podcast

We are clinical psychologists, educators, and program directors with over 50 years of combined experience in autism spectrum research and support. Through raising awareness and addressing key topics in the field, our goal is to inspire others to advocate for inclusive policies, evidence-based research, and comprehensive training.

Andrew S. Rubin, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the Founder of the International Society for Autism (ISAresearch.org), as well as the Founder and CEO of New Directions for Young Adults (NDFYA.com). In August 2013, Dr. Rubin was appointed by the Governor to the Florida Department of Health Board of Psychology, where he served until August 2020, concluding his tenure as Chairman of the Board.

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Uniquely Wired Podcast

Episode 7-Andrew Taylor on Mentoring, Mental Health & the Power of the Outdoors

November 05, 2025 • Dr. Drew Rubin • Season 1 • Episode 7

Can nature and adventure help struggling young adults reset, heal, and find direction? On this episode of The Uniquely Wired Podcast, Andrew Taylor—founder of Pure Life Adventure and Octagon Mentoring—joins Dr. Rubin and Dr. Kellen to discuss how outdoor immersion, digital detox, and real-life challenge can accelerate confidence and emotional growth. Andrew shares key differences between wilderness therapy and transitional independent living models, a powerful story from the surf program in Costa Rica, and why young people often make dramatic progress within weeks. They also explore the role of AI—its benefits, its risks, and a new accessibility initiative Andrew is developing to support mental health.

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