In this episode of The Inclusive Dad podcast, host AAron welcomes Blake Baumann and Pickens Calhoun for a powerful conversation on neurodiversity, parenting, and inclusion. Blake shares his journey of being diagnosed with autism later in life after his son’s diagnosis, and how that experience inspired him to create ASPIE-R Autism Coaching and the Autism Independence Academy. Together, Blake and Pickens discuss strategies for building confidence, creating structure at home, supporting young adults toward independence, and reframing neurodiversity as a strength. Parents and educators will walk away with practical insights, hopeful stories, and tools to better support neurodivergent youth.

Key Takeaways:

Redefining Inclusion – True inclusion means belonging, acceptance, and maximizing individual strengths.

Structure Matters – Consistency and routines help neurodivergent children build independence and confidence.

Confidence Building – Celebrating small victories and encouraging self-expression fuels growth.

Parental Support – Parents play a key role in guiding without rescuing, helping children navigate life skills.

Career Preparation – Volunteering, resume strategies, and openness to new job markets prepare youth for independence.

Blake’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is about making sure people feel like they belong and accepting everyone.

Picken’s definition of inclusion:

Inclusion is bringing everyone in and maximizing everyone's strengths and skills.

Blake Baumann’s Bio:

Hello, my name is Blake Baumann and I specialize in helping people with Asperger’s and high functioning autism to unleash their genius and excel at managing the world around them so that they can live an exceptional life.

Asperger’s came into my life at age 36 when my mini-me, my son, was diagnosed with it. The medical paperwork called it Asperger’s Syndrome (now known as Autism Spectrum Disorder) and after doing extensive research, understanding the symptoms, I knew the undeniable, I had it as well.

For several years I denied it, not only for myself but also for my son. I even made sure my son’s school didn’t receive the diagnosis because I didn’t want my son treated any differently from other children because I knew the world wouldn’t. My wife, who worked in education and is the original one who pointed out that my son and I both had Asperger’s, tried bringing up the conversation several times after the official diagnosis to which I would quickly shut her down. The truth is I thought it would make me less of a person.

I had worked extremely hard to overcome the many challenges that I faced in childhood and as an adult from social anxiety, communication awkwardness, sensory issues, and developing relationships to be an executive leader, speaker, husband, and father. Over the next few years with the help of my incredible wife, I was able to see all the things I achieved as a pathway to help other people with Asperger’s.

Through ASPIE-R Coaching, it’s my mission to help you and your loved ones to embrace and recognize what Asperger’s is…not a syndrome or disorder but a gift. Let me help you unleash your gift to live a truly exceptional life.

Connect with Blake and Pickens:

Autism Independence Academy: https://aia-launch.com/

ASPIE-R Coaching: https://www.aspie-r.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ASPIERCOACH

SPAM© Count:

Host:

Yes

Current Guest:

Yes

Cumulative Guest Stats:

Yes - 55

No - 79

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