Dear friends,
I hope everyone is doing well and easing out of the long stretch of Jewish holidays. It’s been quite a season; uplifting, emotional, and for me, deeply reflective.
I spent the end of the chagim marathon in my hometown, Manchester, England, just two weeks after the terrible terrorist attack at a synagogue I’ve attended many times, where the rabbi is a dear friend. It was an emotional visit, but also a powerful reminder of how resilient communities can be. Seeing people come together, and then hearing that hostages were finally coming home, felt like the whole world exhaled!
The Dadvocating Podcast
On a lighter note, I just released a new episode of The Dadvocating Podcast, timed for World Mental Health Day (October 10th) and it’s one of my favorites yet. It blends two of my passions: being a giant nerd and exploring mental health through the lens of superheroes. Heroes don’t always wear capes, sometimes, they just show up.
New Episode:
Superhero Therapy: Harnessing Pop Culture for Mental Wellness with Dr. Janina Scarlet
Listen on Spotify
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Autistic Jewish Community Circles
This Sunday October 19th, our next Autistic Jewish Support & Discussion Group meets for an open conversation on Maintaining Friendships, Family, and Romantic Relationships. It’s a space for honest conversation, shared experiences, and mutual support.
Upcoming Dates:
Sunday, November 16 Nervous System Responses to Tradition, Practice, and Mitzvot
Sunday, November 23 Golems, AI, and Ethics
Sunday, December 7 Autistic Talmud
Facilitated by Matti, the #ActuallyAutistic Coach.
All are welcome.
REGISTER HERE
Positive Parenting Language: Tools for Strength-Based Caregiving,
Lastly, I’ll be conducting another New York State–wide training (open to the entire world, by the way!) through Families Together in New York State (FTNYS). It’s called Positive Parenting Language: Tools for Strength-Based Caregiving, happening Monday, October 27th, from 10–11:30 AM.
REGISTER HERE
We’ll be exploring everyday communication tools that foster trust, encourage growth, and cultivate calmer, more connected relationships at home and in care settings.
If you or someone you know could use a few practical tools to help reset the tone at home, this one’s for you.
Wishing everyone a gentle return to routine after the holidays.
With warmth,
Simcha
