Kimberly Isaac-Emery

Paul and I met not too long after he received an Aspergers diagnosis (which is no longer identified by that particular name in the DSM, but is identified in the category autism spectrum disorder.). As our work together progressed, Paul began to express so much of what he was thinking and how he was processing the world. He was able to do this  in such clear and insightful ways. I recognized that his ability to do this was rare and very powerful- not only in helping me to help him, but also that it was something that could be shared with others.  I received an offer to create and host an autism radio show. At first, I turned it down. While I consider myself to be a welcoming and friendly person,  I prefer to be in the background vs. the spotlight. Co-hosting a radio show on my own would be way out of my comfort zone. I  began to think about Paul. He was in the process of learning about himself and finding some direction. I began to wonder if he would want to pursue using his strengths to move forward in his own life, as well as help others through speaking.  As a guide, I knew that we would start out as a team. Even though I was nervous, I knew it would be positive for Paul and had great potential to evolve into something great. After some discussion, Paul agreed to try it out and for three years, we co-hosted Understanding Autism radio show on Breakthrough Thinking Broadcasting Network (go to www.breakradioshow.com for archived shows). Paul had discovered his passion for advocacy through our show. In January of 2015, Paul expanded his passion in the field of advocay and now has a weekly show on 1110am KTEK Houston advocating for various disabilites called, “Theories of Mind”.  I am the autism coorespondant for the autism the show  on the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Our show is still focused around the idea of understanding autism. We want to help people to truly understand autism, not just be aware of it. People tend to fear or judge things that they don’t understand. Many families, individuals and communities need support and an increased understanding of autism, so that they can relate to their loved ones in order to better help them.  To listen live to Theories of Mind- Understanding Autism on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00am CST, visit this page. You can also visit “Theories of Mind” facebook page for archived shows. For more information about Paul and the advocacy work that he is involved with, go here.