The Polaris Connection Autism Parenting, Expert Insights & Proven Resources
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, teachers, and therapists alike. Join us to discover inspiring journeys, learn about autism support networks, and explore ways to celebrate your child’s strengths while overcoming challenges. Whether you’re seeking advice on autism therapies, school programs, social skills development, or community connection, The Polaris Connection offers trusted guidance to help you thrive. Tune in each week for episodes that empower families, build understanding, and create meaningful connections in the world of autism and special needs parenting.
Join Brad Broyles and Nathan Palmer on The Polaris Connection where they help parents of autistic and neurodivergent children find power, perspective, and possibility. Through expert insights and real-life stories, we spark hope, share resources, and inspire families to navigate the journey with confidence. It’s not just a podcast, it’s a movement for connection, strength, and unapologetic advocacy.
Your voice matters. Do you have a topic, challenge, or question we can bring to the next episode? Reach out and follow us on social media at @PolarisAcademySocial
Email us at info@polarisacademy.org
To schedule a tour at Polaris Academy, go to PolarisAcademy.org
Episodes
38 episodes
Dad Bod, Big Heart, Spectrum Smart with Brad and Nathan
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 childr...
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33:54
Carrie Cariello: The Hidden Power of Connection in Autism: How Small Triumphs Change Everything
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...
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45:30
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Gabrielle Ficchi & Michele Thorne: Care 4 the Caregivers: Support and Resources for YOU
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...
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42:59
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Eileen Devine: Why Focusing on Skill Gaps Instead of Behaviors Changes Everything for Neurodivergent Kids
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 includ...
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47:20
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Haley Palmer: The Power of Early Identification and Intervention in Autistic Children
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 i...
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40:22
George Khalaf: The Hidden Power of Educational Freedom for Neurodiverse Children
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’...
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46:16
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Ann Monahan: Protecting Autism Services: What Families Need to Know Right Now
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 f...
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44:32
Why Most Autism Environments Fail and How Small Changes Make a Big Difference
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 livin...
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35:07
Nicole Kuck: How to Help your Autistic Child Transition into Adulthood
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 ad...
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50:01
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Kevin Humphrey: Autism and Community: Sunshine Acres’ Legacy of Care
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 insi...
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43:28
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Beth Garcia: ands-On Minds: How STEM Unlocks Strengths in Autistic Kids with Beth Garcia
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 throu...
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43:35
Dallas & Mackenzie Klenke: How Movement Regulates the Autism Nervous System, Builds Confidence, & More
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 regul...
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53:06
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Small Wins, Big Growth: Setting Our North Star in Creating Meaningful Goals for Neurodivergent Kids in 2026
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 se...
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22:34
The Nativity isn’t just a Christmas story—it’s the story of parents doing their best with uncertainty, fear, and faith
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 ...
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25:29
Rebecca Waters: How Parents Can Navigate Arizona's DDD Services for Autistic Children
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 Wat...
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47:12
Kelly Willis: Navigating the Holiday Season on the Spectrum
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 ...
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Season 1
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Episode 21
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43:22
Tosha Tharp-Gaitanis: How Pawsitive Pets Build Stronger Autism Connections Through Play and Games
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 in...
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Season 1
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Episode 20
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47:27
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Gratitude Through the Spectrum: A Thanksgiving Message with Mr. K & Parents
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 Tha...
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Season 1
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Episode 19
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41:40
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Autism Savvy with Amber Arrington: Empowering Every Family
In this episode of The Polaris Connection, we sit down with Amber Arrington, founder of Autism Savvy, to talk about practical, real-world strategies for supporting autistic children at home, in school, and in the community....
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Season 1
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Episode 18
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43:24
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Transforming Autistic Education: A Conversation with Nathan Palmer on Rpsych Radio
In this episode of The Polaris Connection, in collaboration with RPsych Radio, host Garrett Smith interviews Nathan Palmer, the passionate leader behind Polaris Academy. Nathan shares how Polaris was created a...
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Season 1
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Episode 17
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1:05:07
Rachel Crupi: Parenting Autism With Purpose, The ABC's That Every Family Should Know
Join Rachel Crupi, BCBA and Director of Behavior Services at Polaris Academy and Starlight Behavior Academy, as she shares essential strategies and insights for families navigating autism. In this episode of Parenting Autism With Purpose
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Season 1
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Episode 16
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1:00:12
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"Yes, and...?" The Power of Play and Humor with Autistic Children by Jef Rawls
In this powerful episode of The Polaris Connection, we sit down with Jef Rawls actor, comedian, and improv expert to explore how the art of improv can deepen connection, communication, and understanding with...
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Episode 15
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47:35
Autism Family Planning: Wills, Trusts, and Guardianship with Attorney Hunter Knight
Planning for your child’s future is one of the most important — and emotional — steps for any autism parent. In this episode of Autism Family Planning, we sit down with Attorney Hunter Knight of Knight Law PLC, a trusted expert ...
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Season 1
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Episode 14
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59:32
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Love The Polaris Connection? We have a FREE shirt for YOU!
Come see us at SARRC's YES Day for Autism® Join the movement, be inspired, and celebrate community! 💙📅 Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 9AM📍 Tempe Beach ParkStart the day with opening ceremonies and a fun warm-up stretch, then jo...
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0:23
Autism & Trauma: Understanding the Voice Behind Behavior with Amanda Hineline BCBA
Welcome to the Polaris Connection and in today's episode Autism & Trauma: Understanding the Voice Behind Behavior — our special guest is Amanda Hineline, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA, an autism and trauma expert with nearly a deca...
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Season 1
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Episode 13
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50:15
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