Podcasts · Kids & Family · Education

Turn Autism Around

Dr. Mary Barbera

300 episodes

If you're a parent with a child diagnosed with Level 1, 2, or Level 3 autism or worried about speech delays, tantrums, autism signs, hitting, potty training struggles, picky eating, meltdowns, sensory issues, or toddler behavior that feels confusing or overwhelming, you're in the right place: www.marybarbera.com

More about the show

Hosted by Dr. Mary Barbera — RN, doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D), best-selling author, and creator of widely used online programs for toddlers and preschoolers — this bi-weekly podcast breaks down complex child development topics into simple, actionable steps any parent or professional can use immediately.

Every other week, Mary shares her proven 4-step approach to help children (with and without autism or ADHD) make measurable progress at home, school, and in the community. Episodes cover highly searched topics such as:

🗣️ Speech & Language Development How to get your toddler to talk What to do when your toddler isn't talking Late talking, first words, echolalia, scripting, and vocal stimming Strategies to build interaction, joint attention, and social engagement

😭 Behavior & Tantrums How to stop hitting, biting, throwing, and daily meltdowns What causes tantrums and how to reduce them Simple behavior plans any parent can use Emotional regulation for toddlers and preschoolers

🧠 Autism, ADHD & Early Signs Early signs of autism in toddlers What to do if you suspect autism — or if someone told you to "wait and see" Screening vs. diagnosis Sensory processing disorder, hyperlexia, giftedness vs. autism traits Navigating early intervention, speech therapy, OT, or ABA therapy

👶 Daily Life Skills Potty training for toddlers with speech delays or autism Picky eating and feeding challenges Sleep issues and bedtime routines Safety, wandering, transitions, and managing hard outings Preparing for doctor, dentist, or haircut visits

👨👩👦 Parent Coaching & Real-Life Stories Real parent success stories (like toddlers going from 0 words to hundreds) How to create calm, confident routines at home Reducing stress for the whole family Mindset support for overwhelmed parents

This show is designed to help parents, but is also widely followed by behavior analysts, speech-language pathologists (SLPs), occupational therapists, teachers, pediatricians, nurses, and early-intervention professionals who want child-friendly, research-backed strategies that work in real homes.

Whether you're dealing with a diagnosis of autism or a late talker with frequent tantrums, sensory challenges, or early signs of autism… or you simply want a clear, compassionate, step-by-step plan to help your child thrive — this podcast is here to guide you.

Subscribe and learn how to improve talking, reduce problem behaviors, and help your child gain confidence, independence, and skills — starting today.

Episodes page 1 of 6

  1. #353: "I Never Thought I'd Hear Her Talk" | Autism Success Story

    · 45 min · Episode 353

    Michelle C. shares her daughter Elena's autism success story, from severe language delays and tantrums at age two to thriving in a general education third-grade classroom. After COVID disrupted therapy services,…

  2. #352: Her Daughter Had Autism and Just 2 Words… Look at Her Now

    · 45 min · Episode 352

    Mary Barbera welcomes back Michelle, a parent and autism coach, to share her daughter Elena's remarkable journey. Michelle discusses recognizing early signs of regression, receiving an autism diagnosis, and navigating…

  3. #351: Her Granddaughter Wasn't Talking—Then Tracy Learned What to Do

    · 31 min · Episode 351

    Mary Barbera interviews longtime collaborator Tracy Rasmussen about helping her 16-month-old granddaughter, Cece, who was showing signs of a speech delay. Tracy shares the strategies she learned through Mary's program,…

  4. #350: "Free" Tips & Therapy Aren't Really Free - The Autism Myth Keeping You Stuck

    · 18 min · Episode 350

    Dr. Mary Barbera explains why "free" autism advice and therapy can still carry a cost when they delay real progress. Mary shares two parent stories: Ruth, who spent 150+ hours piecing together free content without a…

  5. #349: Child Talking Too Quietly? How to Improve Voice Volume in a New Talker

    · 15 min · Episode 349

    When a child has words but speaks too quietly to hear, low volume may be connected to confidence, fluency, and how difficult the word feels. In this coaching call excerpt, Dr. Mary Barbera explains how to increase…

  6. #348: Siblings, Autism & Speech Delays: Why You Can't Predict the Future

    · 13 min · Episode 348

    Dr. Mary Barbera shares the story of her sons Lucas and Spencer, two boys who looked very similar as toddlers but had very different outcomes. Through their journey, she explains why parents can't predict a child's…

  7. #347: Could Autism Be Detected at Birth? One Father's Mission to Change Autism Care

    · 42 min · Episode 347

    Dr. Mary Barbera interviews Amol Deshpande, creator of the Frontera app and father of a son with autism, about his mission to improve early autism detection and access to care. They discuss biomarker testing that may…

  8. #346: 30 Years After My Son's Autism Diagnosis: What I Know Now

    · 14 min · Episode 346

    Dr. Mary Barbera reflects on nearly three decades in the autism world as both a mom and professional. She shares how denial, long waitlists and limited early support can delay progress for children with autism or…

  9. #345: Can Autism Be Reversed? Stem Cells, Early Intervention & New Research

    · 37 min · Episode 345

    Dr. Mary Barbera speaks with Dr. Joseph Cautilli about autism research, including cautious optimism around university-based stem cell studies and stronger evidence for early behavioral intervention. They discuss a 2023…

  10. #344: Why "He'll Be Fine" Is the Most Dangerous Advice in Autism

    · 16 min · Episode 344

    "He'll probably be fine." That's what most parents hear when their toddler shows early signs of autism. After 25 years in the field - and raising a son who looked "mild" at 2 but needs 24/7 care at 30 - Dr. Mary…

  11. #343: Joint Attention Explained: The Foundation of Communication in Autism

    · 28 min · Episode 343

    Joint attention is the shared focus between a child and another person, and it is one of the most important foundational communication skills for children with autism and developmental delays. Dr. Mary Barbera talks…

  12. #342: The Autism Tipping Point - 3 Trends Changing Everything

    · 20 min · Episode 342

    #342: The Autism Tipping Point - 3 Trends Changing Everything Autism is now 1 in 31 - and three massive forces are about to reshape everything parents and professionals think they know. Episode Summary In this…

  13. #341: What Is ABA Therapy… REALLY? (4 Myths Parents Need to Know)

    · 33 min · Episode 341

    ABA therapy is the science of behavior and learning, not just a treatment for autism. Dr Mary Barbera clears up four common myths about ABA, explains why the science is always at work, and shows how quality,…

  14. #340: 3 Mistakes When Teaching Manners to Kids with Autism (And What Works Instead)

    · 26 min · Episode 340

    Teaching manners to children with autism is important, but teaching them too early can interfere with communication development. Before focusing on words like "please" and "thank you," children should first be able to…

  15. #339: Parent Training for Autism: The Key to Faster Progress Autism Professionals Need to Know!

    · 29 min · Episode 339

    Parent training is one of the most important drivers of progress in autism intervention because parents are with their children far more than therapists are. Dr. Mary Barbera and Leanne Page explain how autism…

  16. #338: Autism Safety: Solving elopement, PICA, Fire Safety & More with Dr. Amy Foxman

    · 32 min · Episode 338

    Children with autism face increased safety risks, including wandering, drowning, fire emergencies, PICA, and traffic dangers. In this podcast, Dr. Mary Barbera and Dr. Amy Foxman explain why safety skills should be a…

  17. #337: Real Advice to Get a Toddler Talking and Melting Down Less From a Behavior Analyst

    · 29 min · Episode 337

    Dr. Mary Barbera sits down with Elissa in this rebroadcast to show exactly how to help a late-talking toddler using a clear 4-step plan. After identifying that Lexi understood more than she could say, Elissa used…

  18. #336: The 10 Early Signs of Autism

    · 29 min · Episode 336

    Dr. Mary Barbera outlines 10 early signs of autism in toddlers, such as lack of pointing and joint attention, language delays, excessive tantrums, not responding to name and poor imitation skills. She explains how…

  19. #335: Child Not Talking? The Imitation Skills You Need to Build First for Children with Autism

    · 42 min · Episode 335

    Imitation is a crucial early skill for language, play and social development. Delays in imitation are common in toddlers with autism or signs of autism. Dr. Mary Barbera breaks down the 4 key steps to building…

  20. #334: Concerned About a 4 Year Old Speech Delay? Start Here

    · 40 min · Episode 334

    If you're worried that your 4-year-old isn't talking or meeting speech milestones, you're not alone and you don't need to wait. By age four, kids should be speaking in full sentences, asking questions, and using…

  21. #333: What is level 3 autism? Everything you need to know!

    · 36 min · Episode 333

    A Level 3 autism diagnosis means a child currently needs very substantial support, not that their future is fixed or limited. Dr Mary Barbera explains what Level 3 autism is, how it differs from Levels 1 and 2, common…

  22. #332: 5 Autism Rants You Need to Hear in 2026 | Unpopular Autism Opinions That Improve Progress

    · 24 min · Episode 332

    Dr. Mary Barbera shares five "autism rants" based on her 27 years of experience as a mom, nurse, and BCBA-D. These unpopular opinions challenge outdated advice and highlight what truly helps children with autism make…

  23. #331: 18 month old not talking? 5 Steps you need today!

    · 20 min · Episode 331

    Is your 18-month-old not talking yet? Dr. Mary Barbera shares five essential action steps to help parents navigate early speech delays with clarity and confidence. From checking developmental milestones to…

  24. #330: How to Stop Toddler Hitting and Throwing in Just 2 Days!

    · 17 min · Episode 330

    Dr. Mary Barbera and Rachel Smith share a simple, effective 3-step plan to stop toddlers from hitting and throwing things, even when they're overwhelmed or frustrated. Based on positive parenting and behavior science,…

  25. #329: Should you stop stimming in autism?

    · 15 min · Episode 329

    Dr. Mary Barbera answers the top questions about stimming and scripting in children with autism, explaining why they happen and when to be concerned. Stimming isn't bad, but when it's constant, unsafe, or disruptive,…

  26. #328: ADHD vs. Autism in Toddlers: Early Signs, Key Differences & What to Do Next

    · 35 min · Episode 328

    When toddlers show signs like hyperactivity, tantrums, or language delays, it can be hard to tell if it's ADHD, autism, or both. Dr. Mary Barbera shares how to spot early signs, understand the key differences, and take…

  27. #327: Knows Letters and Numbers but Can't Talk? How to Teach These Kids to Talk.

    · 15 min · Episode 327

    Dr. Mary Barbera explains what it means when toddlers are obsessed with the alphabet or numbers but struggle to talk. This pattern, often linked to hyperlexia, can signal giftedness or early signs of autism, especially…

  28. #326: Child Kicked out of Daycare or Expelled From Preschool? Here's what to do!

    · 25 min · Episode 326

    If your child has been kicked out of daycare or preschool, you're not alone, this happens more often for kids with autism, ADHD, or developmental delays. Dr. Mary Barbera shares why expulsions happen, what it means,…

  29. #325: The BECA: An Autism Assessment for Physicians, Researchers, Parents, and Autism Professionals

    · 22 min · Episode 325

    The Barbera Early Childhood Assessment (BECA) is a free, 10-minute digital autism screener designed for parents, physicians, researchers, and autism professionals. Created by Dr. Mary Barbera, the BECA assesses…

  30. #324: Leucovorin For Autism: Dr. Richard Frye on New Autism and Language Research Parents Need

    · 43 min · Episode 324

    Many children with autism face hidden medical challenges that affect speech, behavior, and sleep. Dr. Richard Frye, a Harvard-trained pediatric neurologist, explains how folinic acid (leucovorin) may help, especially…

  31. #323: PDA in Autism: Signs and Strategies That Work

    · 28 min · Episode 323

    Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a profile within autism marked by extreme resistance to everyday demands due to anxiety and a need for control. Though not officially recognized in the U.S., many families find…

  32. #322: Too Young for a Diagnosis? Why Early Intervention for Autism Can't Wait

    · 44 min · Episode 322

    Mary Barbera joins BCBA and autism mom Rachel Freedman, as she shares how recognizing early signs in her son Max led to an autism diagnosis at just 13 months, and how early intervention transformed his development. By…

  33. #321: How to Start Potty Training? 5 Steps to Get Started for Children with Autism (Even If You've Tried Before!)

    · 27 min · Episode 321

    Dr. Mary Barbera shares a proven 5-step approach to help parents and professionals start or restart potty training for children with autism or developmental delays. Assessing readiness, preparing with small steps,…

  34. #320: Emotional Regulation for Kids with Autism: Insights and Tools from Suzanne Tucker at Generation Mindful

    · 42 min · Episode 320

    Dr. Mary Barbera talks with Suzanne Tucker of Generation Mindful about teaching emotional regulation to kids with autism. They go over how co-regulation, mindfulness, and compassionate routines can help children manage…

  35. #319: Doctors and Autism: How to Prepare Children for Appointments Without Meltdowns

    · 26 min · Episode 319

    Dr. Mary Barbera discusses how doctor visits can be overwhelming for children with autism, but systematic desensitization can make a big difference. This simple approach uses gradual exposure and positive reinforcement…

  36. #318: Speech Therapy at Home: Tips from Dr. Mary Barbera from the SpeakJoy Parent Academy

    · 40 min · Episode 318

    If your child has a speech delay or signs of autism, you don't have to wait for a diagnosis to begin helping. Dr. Mary Barbera shares how parents can start speech therapy at home using simple daily routines like meals,…

  37. #317: Functional Medicine and Autism: Denise Voight on Key Nutrients, Blood Tests to Ask For, and the Link Between Zinc, Nutrition, and Behavior

    · 41 min · Episode 317

    If you're a parent, caregiver, or professional supporting a child with autism, you've likely asked: can nutrition and supplements really make a difference? Dr. Mary Barbera is joined by Functional Medicine Nutritionist…

  38. #316: Your Complete Guide to Daycare for Kids with Autism: Skills, Supports, and Success

    · 41 min · Episode 316

    Is your child ready for autism daycare? In this podcast, Dr. Mary Barbera—autism mom, behavior analyst, and nurse—explains how to tell if your child is ready and how to help them thrive in a daycare environment. With…

  39. #315: Autism Toys - Which Ones to Buy & How to Use Them

    · 42 min · Episode 315

    Looking for the best toys for children with autism—and how to actually use them to boost communication, play, and social skills? In this rebroadcast, Kelsey General and Dr. Mary Barbera dive into simple strategies and…

  40. #314: Behavior Breakthrough: Simple ABA Strategies That Make a Big Impact at Home and in the Classroom

    · 35 min · Episode 314

    Feeling overwhelmed by behavior challenges in your classroom or at home? In this video, we're diving into practical, real-life strategies from Behavior Breakthrough by Bailey Payne—a must-read for parents, teachers,…

  41. #313: Autism Out Loud: A Conversation with Kate Swenson, Adrian Wood and Carrie Cariello

    · 44 min · Episode 313

    Join Dr. Mary Barbera for an inspiring conversation with three incredible autism advocates: Kate Swenson of Finding Cooper's Voice, Adrian Wood from Tales of an Educated Debutante, and Carrie Cariello. We dive into…

  42. #312: How to Teach Intraverbals & Feature Function Class

    · 24 min · Episode 312

    Dr. Mary Barbera discusses practical strategies for expanding intraverbals, feature function class (FFC), and language skills in children with autism or speech delays. Learn effective techniques to improve your child's…

  43. #311: Autism Coach for Families: 5 Lessons from High Touch Coaching

    · 29 min · Episode 311

    Dr. Mary Barbera shares five key lessons she has learned from working with high-wealth families navigating autism. These insights are applicable to all parents, regardless of financial status, and offer strategies for…

  44. #310: Autism and Nutrition - The Research and How to Implement Autism Diets

    · 33 min · Episode 310

    Dr. Mary Barbera and Julie Matthews, a leading expert in autism nutrition, discuss the critical connection between nutrition and autism management. With over 22 years of experience, Julie shares insights on how diet…

  45. #309: Insights from Kaelynn Partlow—An Autistic Therapist, Author, and Advocate

    · 33 min · Episode 309

    Dr. Mary Barbera sits down with Kaelynn Partlow, an autistic therapist, author, and advocate, to discuss her inspiring journey from being diagnosed with autism at age ten to becoming a Registered Behavior Technician…

  46. #308: What is Autism in 2025? Understanding the Spectrum

    · 31 min · Episode 308

    Dr. Mary Barbera discusses what Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) looks like in 2025, breaking down its definition, rising prevalence, causes, and early signs. She goes over the diagnostic process, common controversies,…

  47. #307: AngelSense for Families with Autism and My Experience

    · 34 min · Episode 307

    Dr. Mary Barbera shares her personal journey with autism safety and introduces an incredible tool that has transformed the way families like hers protect their loved ones—AngelSense. Joined by fellow BCBA and mom,…

  48. #306: Adulthood Begins in Preschool: Adaptive Skills for Autism with Peter Gerhardt & Shanna Bahry

    · 32 min · Episode 306

    Dr. Mary Barbera covers the role of adaptive skills in creating meaningful futures for individuals with autism. In this conversation with Dr. Peter Gerhardt and Dr. Shanna Bahry, we talk about the importance of…

  49. #305: Virtual Autism Evaluation: Reducing Autism Evaluation Wait Times with Dr. Cheryl Tierney

    · 46 min · Episode 305

    Dr. Mary Barbera discusses how virtual autism evaluations are helping reduce the long wait times for diagnoses, with insights from Dr. Cheryl Tierney, a board-certified developmental pediatrician. Dr. Tierney talks…

  50. #304: Teaching Prepositions to Children with Autism: 3 Mistakes to Avoid

    · 15 min · Episode 304

    Teaching prepositions to children with autism or speech delays can be challenging, especially if introduced too early. Dr. Mary Barbera goes over three common mistakes parents and educators often make when teaching…

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