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.
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.
Rewiring Hope: Breakthroughs in Spinal Cord Recovery
Kessler Foundation Podcasts
9 minutes 18 seconds
5 months ago
Rewiring Hope: Breakthroughs in Spinal Cord Recovery
Steve Adubato welcomes Steven Kirshblum, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Kessler Foundation, to examine breakthrough research that could improve the quality of life for those living with paralysis and Christopher Reeve’s lasting impact on spinal cord research.
What if the key to spinal cord recovery lies in the legacy of a superhero? In this inspiring episode, Dr. Kirshblum—renowned for treating Christopher Reeve—joins us to explore the revolutionary strides being made in SCI rehabilitation. From the Foundation’s cutting-edge stimulation therapies to NIH-backed clinical trials led by Claudia Angeli, PhD, assistant director of the Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation, discover how science is restoring movement, independence, and hope to patients once thought beyond recovery.
We also reflect on the enduring influence of Christopher Reeve, whose courage continues to drive innovation and inspire a new generation of researchers.
Learn more about:
Steve Steven Kirshblum, MD, https://KesslerFoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/steven-kirshblum-md
Claudia Angeli, PhD, https://KesslerFoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/claudia-angeli-phd
Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation, https://KesslerFoundation.org/research/tim-and-caroline-reynolds-center-spinal-stimulation
====================================================================
Used by permission: Think Tank: Steve Adubato
Watch the entire episode at
https://steveadubato.org/examining-breakthrough-research-that-could-improve-the-quality-of-life-for-paraplegics/
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.
