In this episode, Paul interviews Stefan Bjes, Founder of Blue Line Spectrum Safety and a patrol sergeant with 19 years of experience in the greater Chicago area. Stefan is also the father of two autistic sons.

We’ll explore a critical topic for parents of autistic children: how to prepare them for interactions with law enforcement, particularly during traffic stops. Together, we’ll discuss strategies to help your child remain calm, communicate clearly, and manage sensory sensitivities when faced with flashing lights or loud sirens.

We’ll also cover the importance of role-playing these scenarios, teaching your child how to disclose their autism to officers, and providing them with tools like autism ID cards.

Join us for this vital conversation on empowering autistic children to stay safe and confident during police encounters.

Yep, we’re going there, going deep into the pure messiness of being the father of an autistic child. In this solo podcast, Paul goes deep and vulnerably into all the areas where fathers are challenged, particularly with all the different roles that these amazing Dads play every day.

Paul discusses the following roles:

• Surprise, surprise! you’re a human being first before your role as a Dad

• Okay, let’s now discuss your role as a father

• Your role as spouse / partner

• Your role as a friend (and supportive Dadvocate)

• Susanna's journey as a single mom
• Susanna's struggle with postpartum depression and anxiety
• Her daughter's autism diagnosis and co-morbidities
• How our culture treats families with disabilities
• Susanna's life lessons on self-care as a parent