55 | Autism Dads, Community & Support | Dr. Jonathan Chism

In this episode of the Autism Family Resource Podcast, Brian Keene talks with Dr. Jonathan Chism, father, educator, and founder of the Autism Dad Social Club. Dr. Chism shares how his own parenting journey led him to create a space where fathers of autistic children could connect, recharge, share resources, and build real community. Together, Brian and Dr. Chism discuss why dads can sometimes feel isolated, why support matters for fathers as much as it does for children, and how community can help families feel less alone. Dr. Chism also explains how the Autism Dad Social Club creates social opportunities for dads, children, and families through meetups, family events, resource sharing, and virtual connection. This conversation is a warm reminder that parenting does not have to happen in isolation. When fathers find community, they can support one another, share wisdom, and help create a wider circle of care for their children. Topics Covered Why Dr. Chism started the Autism Dad Social Club The importance of community for fathers of autistic children How dads can support each other through shared experiences Creating social opportunities for autistic children and families Why respite and connection matter for parents How dads outside of Houston can begin finding or building community Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 00:41 What is the Autism Dad Social Club? 02:12 Why Dr. Chism started the club 05:43 Challenges that led him to seek community 13:12 What dads can expect at a meetup 20:11 Advice for dads who do not have community yet 24:20 Why support for fathers matters Memorable Quote "Once you bond with other fathers, you feel a sense of pride. Like, man, I parent an autistic child, and we're out here doing it." About the Guest Dr. Jonathan Chism is a father, educator, and founder of the Autism Dad Social Club, a community created to support dads of autistic children through connection, social events, resource sharing, and family-centered gatherings. Based in the Houston area, the club helps fathers build brotherhood, reduce isolation, and create supportive spaces for their children and families. Resources Mentioned Autism Dad Social Club Fatherhood Huddle Autism Society of Texas Autism Society Autism Speaks Walk WhatsApp About the Host Brian Keene is the host of the Autism Family Resource Podcast and founder of Pure Hearts Therapy. Pure Hearts Therapy provides home-based occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, and parent coaching services with a neurodiversity-affirming approach. Subscribe & Connect If this episode resonated with you, please consider sharing it with another parent who might benefit from this conversation. Listen and subscribe to the Autism Family Resource Podcast: https://pod.link/1591840956 Explore more resources for families at: https://pureheartstherapy.com