Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
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Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
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EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
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Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
All content for Kessler Foundation Podcasts is the property of Kessler Foundation and is served directly from their servers
with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
=====================================================================================
EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
Read the transcript at https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-06/Real%20Talk%20on%20MS%20Fatigue_What%20Works-What%E2%80%99s%20Next-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
In this episode of Real Talk MS, host John Strum sits down with John DeLuca, PhD, senior vice president of Research and Training at Kessler Foundation, to explore the elusive nature of MS-related fatigue. Dr. DeLuca explains how fatigue is influenced by a complex mix of neurological and psychological factors, making it difficult to define and treat. He shares insights from MRI studies that link fatigue to changes in brain function—particularly in the basal ganglia—and highlights cognitive behavioral therapy as a leading treatment option, while also pointing to promising pharmacological developments on the horizon.
The conversation expands to include Brian Sandroff, PhD, assistant director of the Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research at Kessler Foundation, who joins Dr. DeLuca in emphasizing the power of personalized, joyful activities—like gardening or joining a book club—as effective ways to combat fatigue. They discuss the evolution of MS rehabilitation, including the rise of tele-rehab and precision exercise programs tailored to individual needs. With compelling research on how aerobic exercise can improve cognitive function and even slow brain atrophy, the episode offers a hopeful look at how lifestyle interventions are reshaping MS care.
More information about
John DeLuca, PhD
Senior Vice President, Research and Training
Co-Director, Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research
https://KesslerFoundation.org/aboutus/John%20DeLuca
Brian M. Sandroff, PhD
Assistant Director, Neuroscience Research
Center for Neuropsychology and Neuroscience Research
Center for Multiple Sclerosis Research,
https://KesslerFoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/brian-m-sandroff-phd
Explore Our Research – Dive into the latest studies tackling MS-related challenges and discover how our scientists are advancing treatments to improve lives, https://KesslerFoundation.org/researchcenter-neuropsychology-and-neuroscience-research/ms/multiple-sclerosis
Listen to the full episode at https://realtalkms.com/episode-406-from-the-2025-consortium-of-ms-centers-annual-meeting-part-two-with-dr-john-deluca-dr-brian-sandroff-and-kristine-werner-ozug/
To learn more, you can listen to Jon Strum's podcast each week as he breaks down the latest multiple sclerosis news and research that may impact MS treatments. https://realtalkms.com/
Use by permission: REAL TALKS MS
Kessler Foundation Podcasts
Read the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2025-10/Focusing%20on%20Strengths%2C%20Not%20Deficits%20in%20Neurodiversity%20-TRANSCRIPT.pdf
At Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, scientists are redefining how they support neurodiverse individuals—especially those on the autism spectrum—by focusing on strengths rather than deficits. Led by Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of the Center, the team developed KF-STRIDE, a specialized program that uses positive psychology to help adolescents and young adults identify their strengths and prepare for the workforce. Early results show increased confidence, self-awareness, and improved interview skills. Through strategic partnerships, this research is expanding to include individuals with ADHD and dyslexia, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation Investigators:
Lead: Helen M. Genova, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Helen-Genova
=====================================================================================
EXPLORE our autism research:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/autism-research
LEARN more about KF-STRIDE
https://kfstride.org
PARTICIPATE:
Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
READ our 2024 Impact Report:
https://kesslerfoundation.org/2024-impact-report
LISTEN to all our 2024 Impact Report stories:
https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/kessler-foundation-impact-reports
=====================================================================================
LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS?
Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates.
This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in September 2025.
=====================================================================================
Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
