In Other Words is a podcast from the UCLA Tarjan Center where people with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities interview researchers, policymakers, and experts in the field of developmental disabilities. Each episode takes presentations from the Tarjan Center Distinguished Lecture Series and turns them into clear, plain-language conversations so everyone can understand and join the discussion.

This episode features Dr. Connie Kasari, Distinguished Professor of Human Development and Psychology at UCLA, and host Holly Oliver, Disability Rights Advocate at the UCLA Tarjan Center.

Dr. Kasari's research focuses on creating and testing new autism interventions for use in schools and clinics, especially to support young children’s communication and social interactions. Holly and Dr. Kasari explore:

• Evidence-based intervention strategies for autistic children

• How early interventions, such as JASPER and AACdevices, can help children with autism develop language, play, and social skills

• Why language is such an important goal for early intervention

Show Notes:

To view this podcast episode with full captions, visit: https://youtu.be/K2QX_tOKV6Q

To view the entire presentation, Early Intervention: Progress, Gaps and What's Next, visit: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan/2025-2026-presentations

Learn more about the UCLA Tarjan Center: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan

In Other Words is a podcast from the UCLA Tarjan Center where people with intellectual and neurodevelopmental disabilities interview researchers, policymakers, and experts in the field of developmental disabilities. Each episode takes presentations from the Tarjan Center Distinguished Lecture Series and turns them into clear, plain-language conversations so everyone can understand and join the discussion.

This episode features Dr. Samara Wolpe, a neuro-affirming autism researcher, clinician, and postdoctoral fellow at the UCLA PEERS Clinic, and host Holly Oliver, Disability Rights Advocate at the UCLA Tarjan Center.

The journey into adulthood can be challenging for many, but autistic individuals often face unique barriers when services and supports end after high school. Holly and Dr. Wolpe explore:

• Why the transition to adulthood can be difficult

• What supports and strategies are most effective

• How schools, colleges, and workplaces can be more inclusive

• The importance of centering autistic voices in research and policy

Show Notes:

To view the entire presentation, Navigating the Transition to Adulthood: Perspectives of Autistic Individuals, visit: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan/2025-2026-presentations

Learn more about the UCLA Tarjan Center: https://teams.semel.ucla.edu/tarjan