Episodes

  • EP 003 | Autistic Communication Isn’t Broken ... It’s Misunderstood

    EP 003 | Autistic Communication Isn’t Broken ... It’s Misunderstood
    Jan 2 2026
    🎙️ EP 003 | Autistic Communication Isn’t Broken ... It’s Misunderstood If you’ve ever worried that your child “can’t communicate,” relies on scripts, repeats phrases, avoids eye contact, or doesn’t communicate the way the world expects — this episode will change how you see everything.In Episode 3 of The Redefining Autism Podcast, we unpack autistic communication as a culture, not a deficit. This conversation goes beyond speech and vocabulary lists to explain how autistic and neurodivergent people communicate meaning through echolalia, scripts, direct language, shared interests, movement, and non-speaking systems.Drawing on research and real-life examples, this episode explains why autistic people communicate just as effectively with each other as non-autistic people do — and why breakdowns happen most often when two different communication cultures collide.Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or professional, you’ll walk away with relief, validation, and practical ways to build a shared language rooted in respect instead of correction. Key Takeaways(timestamps included)[00:03] Autistic communication explained as culture, not deficit[01:10] The difference between communication and speech[03:30] Research shows autistic people communicate effectively with each other[05:40] Why communication breaks down most in mixed neurotype groups[09:13] Echolalia explained as processing, regulation, and meaning-making[12:40] Why scripts are safe, predictable, and expressive — not avoidance[14:55] Autistic directness is clarity, not rudeness[16:30] Interest-based connection as authentic autistic communication[17:45] Non-speaking communication is a complete system, not a lack[18:55] How to build a shared language without forcing neurotypical normsNotable Quotes[00:03] “Your child isn’t failing to communicate — they’re speaking a language the world never taught you.”[04:55] “This isn’t a mismatch of skills. It’s a mismatch of culture.”[09:40] “Echolalia isn’t copying — it’s processing.”[14:55] “Autistic communication is honest, precise, and direct.”[18:40] “Connection grows when expectations shift.”Mid-Roll: Open House WeekOpen House Week isn’t a sales event ... it’s an invitation.It’s a chance to step inside The Support Circle and experience what it feels like to be in a space built for real life. You can join quietly, observe, take what helps, and engage only if and when you’re ready.Open House Week gives you everything members usually experience over a month, condensed into one week — without adding anything extra to your plate. Doors open January 9, and the waitlist is open now.Save your Seat at: 👉 katepanfile.com/openhouseResources MentionedAutistic Brain Compass (ABC)A shared, plain-language framework for understanding autistic brain styles, communication, and regulation👉 katepanfile.com/ABC Support Circle Open House WeekExperience the community before deciding if it’s right for you👉 katepanfile.com/OpenHouse The Support CircleOngoing support for parents, caregivers, school-based educators, and private professionals👉 katepanfile.com/SupportCircle Research: Autistic People Communicate Effectively With Each OtherThis study shows that communication breakdowns aren’t a deficit in autistic people—they happen most when different communication cultures collide.👉Crompton, C. J., Ropar, D., Evans-Williams, C. V., Flynn, E. G., & Fletcher-Watson, S. (2020). Autistic peer-to-peer information transfer is highly effective. Autism : the international journal of research and practice, 24(7), 1704–1712.👉 https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361320919286Research matters here because it helps bridge understanding across home, school, and professional spaces; giving us shared language to support autistic and neurodivergent people with more clarity, consistency, and respect. This research is included to support shared understanding; not to override lived experience, professional judgment, or the realities individuals, families, educators and professionals navigate every day.What Next?If this episode helped you see communication differently, start with the Autistic Brain Compass. It brings together culture, sensory processing, and communication in one clear, shared framework.And if you’re craving connection with others who support autistic and neurodivergent people across home, school, and professional spaces, come join us inside The Support Circle. This is a community built to support the supporters — together.Connect with the PodcastIf this episode resonated, please follow, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps this podcast reach parents, educators, and professionals who are still searching for language, understanding, and belonging.I’m Kate Panfile, and this is The Redefining Autism Podcast.We’re not fixing communication here.We’re learning how to listen. Additional InformationIf you are listening when this episode ...
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    22 mins
  • EP 002 | Understanding Sensory Processing Changes Autism Support

    EP 002 | Understanding Sensory Processing Changes Autism Support
    Jan 2 2026
    If your child’s reactions feel intense, unpredictable, or hard to understand, this episode will help things finally make sense.In Episode 2 of The Redefining Autism Podcast, we go deeper into one of the most misunderstood parts of autistic culture: sensory processing. Not as a side note or a trigger to manage—but as the first language autistic and neurodivergent people learn long before words.This episode breaks down why meltdowns, shutdowns, and overwhelm aren’t random or behavioral, but patterned, meaningful nervous system communication. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or professional, you’ll learn how sensory input shapes attention, regulation, learning, and connection across home, school, and community spaces.You’ll walk away with relief, clarity, and a new way to interpret what your child—or the people you support—have been communicating all along. Key Takeaways(timestamps included)[00:00] Sensory processing explained as communication, not behavior[01:40] Why reactions aren’t random—they follow predictable sensory patterns[04:10] The boiling pot metaphor: understanding different nervous system baselines[06:45] Why classrooms and public spaces can overwhelm before learning even begins[10:30] The difference between meltdowns, shutdowns, and sensory overload[14:55] Why stillness and compliance are not signs of regulation[17:40] How autistic culture views movement, stimming, and intensity[20:10] Supporting sensory needs without pathologizing or “fixing” Notable Quotes[00:00] “Sensory is their first language…and once you learn how to listen, everything changes.”[06:02] “What looks like behavior is often sensory communication.”[12:18] “Meltdowns are nervous system events, not choices.”[15:40] “Quiet doesn’t always mean calm.”[21:55] “Understanding creates relief. Relief creates connection.” Mid-Roll: Open House WeekOpen House Week isn’t a sales event…it’s an invitation.It’s a chance to step inside The Support Circle and experience what it feels like to be in a space built for real life. You can join quietly, take what helps, and engage only if and when you’re ready.Open House Week gives you a full month of community, support, and resources condensed into one week…without asking more of you than you’re already giving.Doors open January 9, and the waitlist is open now. Save Your Seat: 👉 katepanfile.com/OpenHouse Resources MentionedThe Redefining Autism Podcast Ep 001 | Redefining Autism: A Culture, Not a PuzzleThis episode lays the foundation for understanding autism as a culture, which everything in Episode 2 builds on.👉 https://redefining-autism.simplecast.com/episodes/001 Autistic Brain Compass (ABC)A shared, plain-language framework for understanding autistic brain styles👉 katepanfile.com/ABC Support Circle Open House WeekExperience the community before deciding if it’s right for you👉 katepanfile.com/OpenHouse The Support CircleOngoing support for parents, caregivers, educators, and professionals👉 katepanfile.com/SupportCircle Research matters here because it helps bridge understanding across home, school, and professional spaces; giving us shared language to support autistic and neurodivergent people with more clarity, consistency, and respect. This research is included to support shared understanding; not to override lived experience, professional judgment, or the realities individuals, families, educators and professionals navigate every day. What Next?If this episode helped you see sensory experiences differently, start with the Autistic Brain Compass. It brings together everything we’re unpacking…culture, sensory processing, communication, and connection…in one clear place.And if you’re ready for community that supports the supporters, join us inside The Support Circle. This space was built for parents, school-based educators, and private professionals who are carrying a lot…and don’t want to do it alone anymore.Share this episode with someone you support alongside. Understanding works best when it’s shared. Connect with the PodcastIf this conversation resonated, please follow, subscribe, and leave a review. It helps this podcast reach the families, educators, and professionals who are still searching for clarity, language, and belonging.I’m Kate Panfile, and this is The Redefining Autism Podcast.We’re not fixing anyone here.We’re learning how to understand…together. Additional InformationIf you are listening when this episode drops, our Giveaway may be open! This giveaway is open from January 2, 2026 through January 8, 2026, 11:59 pm EST.GIVEAWAY TERMS & CONDITIONS (OFFICIAL RULES)For more general information about my giveaways, please visit, katepanfile.com/giveawaytcTransparency & Integrity PolicyNO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING.1. SponsorThis giveaway is sponsored by Kate Panfile, Host of The Redefining Autism...
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    25 mins
  • EP 001 | Redefining Autism: A Culture, Not a Puzzle

    EP 001 | Redefining Autism: A Culture, Not a Puzzle
    Jan 2 2026
    🎙️ EP 001 | Redefining Autism: A Culture, Not a PuzzleEPISODE DESCRIPTIONIf you’re parenting an autistic child and feel confused, overwhelmed, or like nothing you’ve tried is working, this episode is for you.In Episode 1 of The Redefining Autism Podcast, I explain autism not as a behavior problem or a puzzle to solve; but as a brain style and a culture. A way of communicating, sensing, and experiencing the world that comes with its own logic and rules.I break down why so many parents feel lost after an autism diagnosis, why common strategies often miss the mark, and why shifting how you understand autism can immediately change connection with your child. If you’ve ever felt like you were handed the wrong rulebook, this episode will help things finally make sense.You’ll walk away with clarity, relief, and the reminder that you’re not doing this wrong…you were just never given the right framework to begin with.Key Takeaways(timestamps included)[00:04] Autism explained: why it’s a brain style, not a problem to fix[05:12] Why parents feel like they’re failing after an autism diagnosis[09:47] The core traits of autistic culture most people misunderstand[14:23] The “wrong rulebook” problem behind parent burnout and confusion[18:36] How understanding autism changes connection before behavior[23:02] Why connection works better than correction or controlNotable Quotes[00:42] “Autism isn’t a problem to solve … it’s a culture to understand.”[06:18] “You weren’t disconnected. You were speaking different languages.”[11:05] “Your child’s reactions make sense when you understand their brain style.”[16:44] “We don’t build walls around whose hard is harder … we build bridges.”[20:11] “Understanding creates relief. Relief creates connection.”🎁 Giveaway Announcement: Launch CelebrationTo celebrate the launch of The Redefining Autism Podcast, I’m giving away one Large Bogg Bag filled with over $400 in thoughtfully chosen comfort items, self-care essentials, snacks, and everyday favorites.This isn’t about algorithms.It’s about community.And supporting the supporters.It’s the care package I wish someone had handed me in one of my hardest seasons.How to Enter (Required)1️⃣ Subscribe or follow the podcast (wherever you listen)2️⃣ Leave a short, honest written review3️⃣ DM me a screenshot of your review on Instagram @katepanfileThat’s it. Those three steps = one entry.Bonus Entries (Optional)✨ Bonus EntryJoin my email community: katepanfile.com/boggbagSign up → open the email → reply GIVEAWAY(Check spam or junk folders just in case.)✨ Extra Bonus EntriesOn the giveaway post on Instagram, tag any parent, caregiver, educator, or professional who needs these conversations.Each tag = one bonus entry. No limit.What the Winner ReceivesOne (1) winner will receive a fully stocked Large Bogg Bag including:Large Bogg Bag – $100Minimergency Kit – $17Eye Masks – $7Hair Clips – $10Croc Jibbitz (Bag Charm) – $10Simply Modern 24oz Leak-Free Tumbler – $8Organizational Pouches – $25Notebook – $17Pens – $9Face Masks – $5GRWM Headbands – $10Lip Balm – $9Nails – $5Infinity Necklace – $10Michael Kors XS Pouch – $10Cuddl Duds Comfy Socks – $68Thin Mint Snappers – $9Caramel Popcorn (Disability-Owned Brand) – $8Drizzlicious Snacks – $8Throw Blanket – $38Approximate Retail Value (ARV): $402No cash alternative. Prize is non-transferable. Winner will be verified. Resources MentionedFREE DOWNLOAD: Autistic Brain Compass (ABC)A parent-friendly guide to understanding autistic brain styles👉 katepanfile.com/ABCThe Support Circle’s Open House Week, Doors Open: January 9, 2026A week-long experience inside the community we’re building together👉 katepanfile.com/OpenHouseThe Support Circle, Doors Always Open!Ongoing connection, education, and support for parents and professionals👉 katepanfile.com/SupportCircleResearch matters here because it helps bridge understanding across home, school, and professional spaces; giving us shared language to support autistic and neurodivergent people with more clarity, consistency, and respect. This research is included to support shared understanding; not to override lived experience, professional judgment, or the realities individuals, families, educators and professionals navigate every day.What Next?If this episode gave you even a small sense of relief, start with the Autistic Brain Compass. It pulls together everything we’re beginning to unpack here.Then, if you’re craving connection, not more advice, join us inside The Support Circle. This is a space built for real life, real questions, and real support for the people doing the hardest work.Share this episode with someone who needs a new way to understand autism … and a reminder that they’re not alone.Connect with the PodcastIf this conversation resonated, please subscribe, follow, and leave a review. It helps this podcast...
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    18 mins
  • Podcast Trailer | Redefining Autism: The Podcast I Needed When Everything Felt Hard

    Podcast Trailer | Redefining Autism: The Podcast I Needed When Everything Felt Hard
    Nov 10 2025
    Podcast Trailer | Redefining Autism: The Podcast I Needed When Everything Felt Hard

    Show Notes:

    In this heartfelt trailer episode, host Kate Panfile, autism educator, parent, and family support strategist, announces The Redefining Autism Podcast.

    This isn’t another “how-to” podcast. It’s a safe, affirming space for parents who love fiercely, feel deeply, and are ready to understand their child’s autistic brain in a way that changes everything...except their child.

    Kate opens up about the sleepless nights, the panic, and the gut-punch realization that the world wasn’t built for her kids, and how that moment led to a mission: building a safer one.

    Through raw honesty and hard-won wisdom, she introduces the heart of this show; a place where understanding replaces judgment, and survival turns into strength.

    Highlights

    Welcome to The Redefining Autism Podcast

    The sleepless nights and 2 a.m. scrolls

    The pressure, the guilt, and the fierce love behind this mission

    When the world isn’t built for your child, and what happens next

    Why this podcast exists: bridging clinical care and real life

    What “neuro-affirming” really means in everyday parenting

    Celebrating inchstones, not milestones

    A personal invitation: build your village, not just your child’s

    What’s coming next: new episodes, real stories, and practical tools

    In This Episode

    The truth about parenting in the messy, raw middle

    What it really means to redefine autism

    Why understanding your child’s brain changes everything...except your child

    How this podcast bridges professional insight with lived experience

    A heartfelt invitation to join a new kind of support circle

    Mentioned & Related Links

    Visit: KatePanfile.com

    Join the Community: The Support Circle

    Instagram: @KatePanfile

    Connect with Kate

    Website → KatePanfile.com
    Instagram → @KatePanfile
    Email → hello@KatePanfile.com

    LINKS

    Be sure to follow and tag Kate Panfile on Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn and TikTok!

    CONTACT

    Reach out with thoughts, questions and collaborative opportunities at hello@katepanfile.com.

    EPISODE CREDITS

    Produced, edited and mixed by Kate Panfile

    Artwork designed by Kate Panfile

    Segment jingles composed and produced by BearStockMusic, licensed by AudioJungle
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    2 mins