Autism Isn’t Rare. It’s Just Hidden | DadSense

#dadsense #podcast #indiandads #autism #indiandads #inspiration In this powerful episode of DadSense, host sits down with Ashish — a CEO, media leader, and author — for a deeply honest conversation about fatherhood, identity, and raising a child who sees the world differently.Ashish describes himself as an “evolving dad”, sharing how becoming a father transformed not just his parenting philosophy but his entire understanding of life, work, and relationships.Nearly two decades ago, his son Rashan was diagnosed with autism. What followed was an emotional journey through denial, confusion, guilt, and eventually acceptance — and even celebration. Later in life, Ashish himself was diagnosed with autism and ADHD at the age of 50, bringing a new level of clarity to his own experiences growing up.In this conversation, Ashish shares how fatherhood reshaped his mindset — from believing that being a provider was enough, to realizing that what children truly need is presence.He also introduces his powerful philosophy called the “5 Ps of Papa Hood” — a framework every modern father can learn from.This episode explores:The emotional reality of parentingHow children change the men we becomeWhy fathers must move beyond just providingThe importance of self-care for parentsLeadership lessons learned from fatherhoodRaising children in a world shaped by screens and mediaAnd what kids really need from their dadsMore than anything, this episode is about learning to be present, embracing vulnerability, and becoming the kind of father your child feels safe with.Timestamps00:00 — Introduction to Ashish & fatherhood conversationAshish shares what it means to be a father and why he calls himself an “evolving dad.”02:20 — Discovering his son was differentThe early signs that something was different when Rashan was around two years old.04:30 — The diagnosis & emotional reactionsDenial, fear, guilt, and the emotional rollercoaster parents often experience.07:00 — Escaping into work & coping mechanismsAshish reflects on how he initially ran away from the situation by immersing himself in work.09:00 — Ashish’s own diagnosis at age 50How discovering his own neurodivergence helped him understand himself and his son better.17:00 — Bonding with his son through musicHow creativity and music helped strengthen their relationship.21:00 — Advice for parents navigating similar journeysKey lessons for parents facing uncertainty and challenges.29:00 — Leadership lessons from parentingHow fatherhood made him a more patient and inclusive leader.42:30 — The reality of marriage & parenting challengesHonest conversation about relationships, stress, and teamwork between parents.52:00 — The “5 Ps of Papa Hood”Ashish shares his framework for modern fatherhood:Presence, Protection, Play, Pronouncement, and Pesa.1:00:00 — What Ashish hopes his son remembers about himA touching reflection on what truly matters as a father.