James Guttman speaks from lived experience — not theory — about what changes when a child finally knows they are understood. As the creator of HiBlogImDad.com and host of Hi Pod! I’m Dad, James shares powerful narratives about trust, emotional safety, and connection that resonate far beyond parenting or autism. His work explores how quiet shifts in presence and attention can transform relationships, especially when communication isn’t guaranteed. Rather than offering formulas or fixes, James brings audiences inside the moments where fear gives way to understanding, and where trust begins to reshape everything that follows.
Why Event Planners Invite James
• He speaks about trust and connection in a way that audiences feel immediately — not academically, not clinically, but personally.
• His work has reached hundreds of thousands of readers through HuffPost Personal, where his essays consistently resonate with families and professionals alike.
• As a featured panelist on Jubilee’s Middle Ground, James has demonstrated the ability to navigate emotionally complex conversations with clarity and compassion.
• The Hi Blog! I’m Dad community follows his work because it is honest, grounded, and rooted in lived experience rather than theory.
Formats Available:
• Keynotes
• Fireside chats
• Workshops
• Virtual sessions
• Q&A or interactive segments
Ideal Audiences:
• Parents and caregivers
• Educators and school staff
• Therapists and clinicians
• Community groups
• Inclusion and diversity teams
• Workplace wellness programs
Topics and takeaways
What Changes When a Child Finally Knows You’re Listening
How trust reshapes behavior, confidence, and connection.
Trust Over Technique
Why emotional safety matters more than perfect systems.
Presence Before Performance
Helping children feel valued without pressure or labels.
Seeing Strengths Others Miss
How noticing small shifts changes family culture and expectations.
Holding a Family Together Through Hard Moments
Supporting siblings and building connection that lasts.
Finding Humor Without Avoiding the Truth
Using storytelling to keep people open instead of overwhelmed.
Watch James
“James was very inspiring and his stories were so interesting. Our kids definitely deserve to be appreciated.” – Alayna, parent
“This was a GREAT event!!!! The speaker was knowledgeable and relatable. Thank you SEPTA for organizing!” – Colleen, school community member
“He shares relatable stories about the everyday lives of his family, including good days and bad ones. Readers will find Guttman’s writing sincere, and sometimes blunt and humorous, all the while educational about what it’s like to raise children who are verbal and nonverbal.” – Healthline.com
“James Guttman writes about parenting both of his children (one nonverbal and one nonstop verbal), self-reflection, and all that comes with fatherhood. His mix of humor and honesty aims to normalize the way people view raising a child with special needs and show that we, as parents, are all basically the same, regardless of the children” – Autism Parenting Magazine
Details that make planning easy
- Formats include keynote, fireside chat, workshop, virtual session
- Ideal for parents, teachers, therapists, school leaders, community groups, and workplace inclusion teams
- Tech needs kept simple and flexible
- Travel from Long Island
Frequently asked questions
Do you speak virtually?
Yes. Virtual talks are available and interactive.
Do you tailor talks?
Yes. Each audience is different. We plan together so it fits your goals.
Can we include a Q and A?
Yes. Q and A often helps people connect the ideas to their lives.
Hi Blog! I'm Dad. 
You must be logged in to post a comment.