Blog.

In a world where misinformation can spread faster than facts, where policy decisions affecting millions can be made without consulting those most impacted, I find myself at a crossroads that feels both deeply personal and profoundly urgent. My role on the Scientific Review Board of the Autism Data Science Initiative (ASDI) isn't just another line on my CV—it's a calling that emerged from the intersection of my life as a research scientist, a father, and an advocate.

This year, Forbes named Aspiritech to their inaugural Accessibility 100 list, recognizing them among the nation's leading innovators in disability inclusion (Forbes, 2025). Simultaneously, Crain's Chicago Business highlighted the organization as a key player in Chicago's evolution as an accessibility leadership hub, noting how the city continues its legacy from the early days of accessible curb cuts to today's cutting-edge neurodiversity initiatives (West, 2025). But accolade

For decades, romance researchers have studied neurotypical relationships, but what about the estimated 15% of the population who experience love differently due to neurodivergent traits (Ebooks IOS Press, 2024)? Research into sensory processing differences and social experiences has revealed surprising truths about neurodivergent romance—truths that challenge everything we think we know about connection and compatibility.

Picture this: You're designing a car, but instead of asking drivers what they need, you spend decades interviewing mechanics about engine parts. Sounds ridiculous, right? Well, that's essentially what autism research has been doing for years—studying autistic experiences without actually listening to autistic adults.

We've been studying autism all wrong! 🤯 Picture this: You're trying to solve a modern cybercrime... using evidence from the 1950s. Sound ridiculous? Well, that's exactly what autism research has been doing for decades. The Shocking Truth 📊 Only 0.4% of autism research focuses on adults. Let that sink in. We've been trying to understand adult autism challenges by studying kindergarteners. Meanwhile, 90% of autistic adults are out there describing their

You're trying to focus on an important presentation at work, but the fluorescent lights are humming like angry wasps, your colleague's perfume feels like it's attacking your nostrils, and that person three cubicles over is clicking their pen with the rhythm of a demented woodpecker. For most people, these might be minor annoyances. For 90% of autistic adults, these everyday sensory experiences can feel like navigating a world designed to overwhelm them.

Welcome to Beyond Barriers! Written by Dr David Ruttenberg, Fulbright Specialist & PhD neuroscientist, breaks down barriers for neurodivergent minds—empowering you to thrive in school, work, and social life. Explore sensory, attention, anxiety, and fatigue solutions with actionable insights for neurodivergent listeners and allies. Let’s innovate inclusion together!

Sensory needs, attention patterns, and mental health accommodations are as unique as fingerprints. We have to stop using band-aids that standardize accommodations.

This blog post explores why sensory sensitivity matters—not just for neurodivergent individuals but for society as a whole—and offers actionable strategies for creating environments where everyone can thrive.

In this post, I will share our story and explore how neurodiverse families like ours are driving innovation and advocacy in the neurodivergent community (and beyond). By highlighting the challenges we face and the lessons we've learned, I hope to inspire others to join us in creating a more inclusive and supportive world for neurodivergent individuals.

My journey from music to neuroscience has shown me that the most profound innovations often arise at the intersection of seemingly disparate fields. By embracing this intersectionality and fostering collaboration across disciplines, we can unlock new possibilities for human empowerment and create a brighter future for all.