Patty Laushman on Parenting for Independence: Strategies for the Transition to Adulthood

Patty Laushman on Parenting for Independence: Strategies for the Transition to Adulthood

Author: Debbie Reber September 8, 2026 Duration: 40:20
Patty Laushman, a speaker, autism life coach, and the author of the book Parenting for Independence: Overcoming Failure to Launch in Autistic Emerging Adults, joins me to talk about one of the misunderstood stages of parenting: supporting our neurodivergent kids as they move into emerging adulthood. In our conversation, Patty and I unpack the concept of “failure to launch,” why that label is actually unhelpful and inaccurate, and how redefining independence can change everything. We talk abou...

Debbie Reber hosts TILT Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children, a space that moves beyond simple advice to explore the real, layered experience of this journey. As a parenting activist and author, Debbie guides conversations that are both deeply informative and genuinely connecting. The discussions in this podcast focus on a range of neurodivergent experiences, including ADHD, autism, Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), giftedness, and twice-exceptionality. You’ll hear from specialists, educators, and other parents, but the tone remains grounded and candid, focusing on applicable strategies over theory. Episodes often tackle specific, daily hurdles like school refusal, communication breakdowns, or managing overwhelm, translating insights into actionable steps. More than just a resource, the podcast fosters a sense of community, reminding listeners they are not navigating this path alone. It’s about finding clarity within the complexity, shifting perspectives, and building a toolkit that honors both your child’s unique brain and your own well-being. Tune in for a blend of solidarity and practical takeaways that can make a tangible difference in your family’s life.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

TILT Parenting: Strategies, Insights, and Connection for Parents Raising Neurodivergent Children
Podcast Episodes
A Deep Dive into Autistic Burnout in Children with Jodie Clarke [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:52
Today we’re talking about autistic burnout—what it is, how it shows up in children and young people, and what it actually takes to support recovery. My guest is Jodie Clarke, an autistic and ADHD professional with more t…
The Real Work of Parenting Neurodivergent Young Adults (Part 3) [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:31
You may recall that last fall, my friend and colleague Penny Williams, a parenting coach for neurodiverse families, the author of four books on ADHD including Boy Without Instructions, and the host of the Beautifully Com…
The Inner Work Behind Staying Present, with Matthew Fishleder [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:58
Today we’re turning the lens inward and talking about the inner life of parents—especially those of us raising neurodivergent kids. My guest is Matthew Fishleder, a licensed marriage and family therapist who works with a…
Alex Mortlock Explains Circadian Rhythm & Complex Sleep Challenges [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:45
Today we’re diving into the nuanced world of circadian rhythm sleep syndromes, and how biological and environmental factors intersect in shaping our children’s sleep. My guest is Alex Mortlock, a registered clinical psyc…
Mark Talaga on the Hidden Challenges of Giftedness in the Digital Age [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 31:48
Today we’re exploring the intersection of giftedness, identity, and belonging—and what it means to support gifted kids in a world that’s changing faster than ever. My guest is Mark Talaga, director of the Center for Iden…
Dr. Katie Hurley on the "Manosphere" & Breaking the Boy Code [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:32
Today we’re talking about boys—the messages they receive about emotions, strength, masculinity, and what it means to “be a man” in today’s world. My guest is Dr. Katie Hurley, a child and adolescent psychotherapist, pare…