Podcasts about autistics

What if the version of yourself you've spent years trying to fix just to blend in, was never broken to begin with? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Sol Smith on his new book The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult.Moments with Marianne airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio affiliate!  Sol Smith is an author and of the manager of the Neurospicy Community, which is the largest sup  port network for autistics and ADHDers in the world.  A certified autism specialist who is autistic, dyslexic, and living with ADHD. spent more than two decades as a college professor before shifting his professional focus to coaching other autistic and ADHD people to gain autonomy in their lives. Sol's speaking skills have earned him a following of hundreds of thousands on TikTok and led to educational seminars about neurodiversity with corporations around the world.  http://www.ProfessorSol.comFor more show information visit: www.MariannePestana.com

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts for this episode.Some doctors wrongfully believe that Autistic people do not know that our own bodies are different and need better medical care. Recently there have been attacks on the bodily autonomy of Autistic people, in particular but not limited to Autistics who are transgender. This confusion is further complicated as the health care that many marginalized groups of people are the mascots for governmental legislation. David and Philip will talk about why Autistic people need to speak up for ourselves to lead the way for systemic change regarding our bodies as an important aspect of who we are.

An episode that figured out it was in a cult!In Episode 129 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we're talking about cults and extremist religious movements in autistic culture. We're joined by Jude Mills, an autistic theologian and former hospice chaplain, and host of Fkd up by faith, whose research and lived experience offer us an inside look at why this isn't just a trauma story—it's a culture story.Here's what we cover in today's episode: * Why do so many of us Autistics find ourselves in Cults? Why do we stay? * The same traits that can make autistic folks susceptible to cults—intense focus, logical systems, emotional honesty—also show up in the leaders of these movements. But what does it mean when the very systems that exploit autistic people are often built by someone with autistic traits?* What happens to your SPIN when it used to be Jesus or Revelation or prophecy? Do you mourn it? Rework it?* What does the journey out look like for most people? What's uniquely hard for autistic folks?Jude Mills' BioJude Mills is an interfaith Minister and spiritual counsellor, ordained with One Spirit Interfaith Foundation in 2020. Fkd Up By Faith – Healing Conversations for Those Hurt by Religion, is a podcast where they explore the deeply personal and often challenging stories of people who've been hurt by their faith but have found hope, healing, reconciliation, or forgiveness—whether within their faith traditions or beyond them.Jude's Website and PodcastDid you enjoy this episode? We talk about Cults and Extremist religious movements in autistic culture — from the intense focus and logical systems to emotional honesty. Getting out doesn't mean you failed. It means you got free. And when you walk away from a belief system that demanded your masking in exchange for conditional love, you're not just walking away—you're walking home! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Resources:Richard Turner - a UK based autistic counsellor (and cult survivor) who specialises in cults and cult recovery: https://www.tothinkagain.co.uk/aboutAshlen Hilliard is a very cool US based person who specialises in cult recovery: https://www.peopleleavecults.com/The websites of Alexandra Stein and Janja Lallich both have reading lists and links and resources for all things cult: https://www.alexandrastein.com & https://janjalalich.comRelated Episodes:Fighting Internalized AbleismAcademia and AbleismFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Could you—or someone you care about—be in burnout and not even know it?In this powerful episode of Beyond Chronic Burnout, Carole Jean Whittington, Lead Burnout Researcher and Chief Well-Being Officer at Whittington Well-Being, brings her recent presentation from the 2nd Annual International Autism Summit straight to you.

I'm joined today by Jonathan Machnee, an autistic researcher who has conducted the largest English language ethnographic study of Christians and ex-Christian autistics (autism 1, or what was formerly known as Asperger's Syndrome or high-functioning autism). His research has included data mining over 26,000 autistics and conducting over 500 interviews with autistic Christians and ex-Christians … Continue reading CA137 Why are autistics less religious? w/ Christianity on the Spectrum →

In this episode, we discuss Autism and Education. We explore some current condition within education and some personal experiences. Specifically, the school day is in complete conflict with Autism- both Criteria A and B. This is the primary factor with the challenges of Autism in Education. The classroom requires a Social Dynamic, a Speech and Language Dynamic, and Sensory-Processing Dynamic, which is 3 strikes against Autism. In addition, the subject switching throughout the school day complicates our path of learning- Our learning style prefers spending extended times on a single subject. Autism gives us the ability to be comfortable within ourselves and this accelerates our learning, our Superpowers. School and the world mostly requires the social communication and interaction. Antipsychotics https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/antipsychotic-drugs-market-2784#:~:text=The%20antipsychotic%20drugs%20market%20size,period%20(2023%20%2D%202030). Pediatrician and Psychologists on the Medical Paradigm https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/radically-genuine-podcast-with-dr-roger-mcfillin/id1573253801?i=1000624733618 Autism and Education https://www.fhautism.com/shop/autism-and-education-the-way-i-see-it-what-parents-and-teachers-need-to-know/ Thinking in Pictures https://www.grandin.com/inc/visual.thinking.html Autism and Intelligence and an Explanation https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxNg0xcadsM&t=316s (0:00) Intro; Autism and Education; Are Educators educated on Autism?; Biases from others towards the environment (7:00) The Prescription Era; Medication first Paradigm (10:32) The School Day- Conflicts with Criteria A and B; Limits a Capacity to Think; Underlying thoughts and feelings of agitation and frustration when learning; (13:15) Autism gives us the ability to be comfortable within ourselves; Are we like the so-called normal people, or not? (13:39) The Classroom- Social Dynamic, Speech and Language Dynamic, Sensory-Processing Dynamic, 3 strikes against Autism; (14:39) Subject Switching and Criteria B conflict (17:14) If you have met one child with Autism, you have met one child with Autism (17:49) Elementary School, 2 reasons why Reading is HARD, Social dynamic experience; (23:07) 4th Grade personal experience- easy task from the outside, tremendous difficulty for Autistics; (27:00) Art was fine, other subjects were not fine; Details to General versus General to Details; (27:58) High School personal experiences; Pathway to Success ＞ General Education; (29:52) Did I graduate, or Not? (31:56) SAT (32:43) Assessment Superpowers and Superdeficits- Very Superior to Severe/Impaired; Schools simply cannot accommodate to all- within group (Autistic to Autistic) or between group (Autistic to Masses) (36:34) Education Arrangement; Taking Notes is challenging (39:16) Wrap Up, Reviews, Ratings, Feedback, Contact Information

World Autism Day is on April 2nd and April is Autism Awareness Month. Hits Differently is excited to celebrate and recognize the autistic community and discuss how impactful Taylor Swift's music can be for a person with autism. In this episode, Molly and Ryan are joined by author, keynote speaker, and award-winning branded content creator Melanie Deziel. Melanie was diagnosed with autism in her early 30s and discovered Taylor's music shortly after. She has written about “the way that many autistics and other neurodivergent people feel especially connected to Taylor Swift's music and deeply seen by her lyrics”. Melanie shares her personal experiences of how she has connected with Taylor's music and joins us for our “Tay Therapy” segment where we discuss submissions from swifties with autism who shared their own stories. Please read Melanie's newsletters on Taylor Swift below and connect with her on social media! We hope you enjoy this episode. Is Taylor Swift Autistic? Who Cares? But here's why we uniquely relate to her music Why Many Autistics Relate To Taylor Swift Lyrics: The Tortured Poets Department Edition   Melanie's Info: Check out her Website! Newsletter - Late Diagnosed Diaries Instagram  Threads  Bluesky  ------------------------------------------------ *Want to share your Tay Therapy story with us? Send us a message!* Write a message or send a voice memo to us here.  ------------------------------------------------ *Episode Links* Our “Way to go, Tiger” Edit  Ryan's Big Cats Theory  ------------------------------------------------ We'd love it if you gave us a rating, review, follow, or like wherever you are listening!  Reach to us on social media to let us know what Taylor topics you'd like to hear on the show.  Watch on YouTube  Watch on Patreon Join our Discord Follow us on TikTok Follow us Instagram Follow us on Twitter/X  Follow us on Bluesky This podcast is in no way related to or endorsed by Taylor Swift, her companies, or record labels. All opinions are our own. © Brelson Media LLC

We often hear that autistics are bottom-up processors and that neurotypicals are top-down processors. What does that mean? What are the advantages of each? Hear how the way the autistic brain processes information explains many autistic traits.Support the showNOW RATED IN THE TOP 0.5% GLOBALLY!-->Free 30-day trial for the podcast listeners! https://try.sunsama.com/xi4blkokndgk (affiliate link which helps the podcast) No credit card needed. Want to be a guest or know someone who would be a good guest? Fill out this form: https://tinyurl.com/autguestspotInstagram: anautisticwoman https://www.instagram.com/anautisticwoman/Ko-fi, PayPal, Patreon at this link: https://linktr.ee/theautisticwomanLinktree: https://linktr.ee/theautisticwomanEmail: info@theautisticwoman.comWebsite: theautisticwoman.comCheck out other autistic shows:The Horse Human Connection Matrix: https://tinyurl.com/authhcmThe Autistic Culture Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/auttacpFrom The Spectrum: https://tinyurl.com/autftsYoSamdySam: https://www.youtube.com/@YoSamdySamBeyond 6 Seconds: https://tinyurl.com/autbssOrion Kell...

Nicole Rincon https://www.nicolerincon.comNicole's X https://x.com/NicoleRinconPARossignol Clinic https://rossignolmedicalcenter.comTACA Info: https://tacanow.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/F-H-2-Nicole-Rincon-Beginning-Biomed.pdfTACA Talks: https://www.nicolerincon.com/videosPublications https://rossignolmedicalcenter.com/articles-publications/#published-2024-2-articlesNicole Episode 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBkdgwVfcZINicole Episode 2 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auLReV0DHkQDaylight Computer Company https://daylightcomputer.comuse "autism" in the discount code for $25 coupon.This is the future of tech.Chroma Light Therapy https://getchroma.couse "autism" for a 10% discount,***THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE***0:00 Nicole Rincon1:10 Daylight Computer Company; DC-15:33 Pre-pregnancy checks; Vitamin D8:37 MTHFR, Folate; Mitochondria; CPR, ESR, Inflammation11:12 GI; CSA; Bacteria, Fungus, Parasites, Calprotectin; Zonalin; MS & Proteus Mirabilis13:06 Organic Acid Test (OAT); Clostridia15:24 MTHFR; C677, 1298; Folinic Acid19:02 Folate's role in pregnancy and development; Critical info about types and duration22:35 Cholesterol; Maternal & Child; Speech & Communication25:06 Telepathy; Autism Rates26:40 Dysbiosis; PCOS29:30 Cholesterol ranges & symptoms; mood, irritability, cognition, aggression; Cortisol & Hormones37:02 Dysbiosis symptoms; Self-Injurious, Posturing41:08 Identifying symptoms in Non-Verbal; Self-Injurious45:08 Importance of Gut Health & Checks; Vitamin D, Electrical Efficiency & Biological Energy48:17 Autistics and pale skin; too many are pale; supplementing Vitamin D, K2; Brands51:00 Proprietary blends warning; abbreviated doses; Fungal overgrowth, Yeast55:49 "Binders;" Magnesium61:00 Fungal Overgrowth & Autism; OAT, Clostridia, C. diff, aggression, self-injurious; Antibiotics & Probiotics1:05:42 Telepathy Tapes, Autism, Water (Cytochrome C Oxidase), Coherence; Luc Montagier NOT Emilio Del Giudice; Distal Connections via Water and NOT axons; OutroX: https://x.com/rps47586Hopp: https://www.hopp.bio/fromthespectrumYT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGxEzLKXkjppo3nqmpXpzuAemail: info.fromthespectrum@gmail.com

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.So much of what is happening for Autistic Adults and our intersectional communities is so overwhelming. We are feeling the emotions of anger, sadness, fear, helplessness and even panic. Autistics need some advice about what we do not have control over and what we do have control over. Becca Lory Hector, our self-care specialist joins Philip to talk about taking care of ourselves by looking after what we do have control over.

“Many people with autism gravitate toward leadership because of the traits and values of our culture… We're born leaders because we're born to see world-building vision.” Today, we are joined by autistic advocate and host of the Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr. Angela Kingdon. Angela drops a science/history lesson, a ton of pop culture references, and some much-needed thoughts on neurodiversity in the workplace and leadership.Listen in to find out:- What Angela's learned about herself and this awesome community since being diagnosed in 2012.- Why understanding the things neurodivergent folks have to know about themselves (to accommodate their environments) would benefit 100% of people, neurodivergent or not.- The horrifying story of why we don't use the term Asperger's anymore.- Why leaders must develop cultural literacy around differences (aside from the fact that it benefits them too).- Some great anecdotes about autistic people, inventions, and culture.“Autistics have been around forever – they created the first stone tools, but it wasn't a label or diagnosis until 1943.”“Taylor Swift and her great aunt, Emily Dickinson, are both perfect examples of autistic traits.”“When people are neurotypical, they're so used to assuming their way is the way. One-size-fits-all isn't real, and that does need to shift.”—Dr. Angela Kingdon is a dynamic autistic advocate, author, and speaker, renowned for her impactful work in promoting neurodiversity and supporting autistic individuals. As the host of the Autistic Culture Podcast, Angela shares her experiences and insights as a late-diagnosed autistic person, aiming to create a more inclusive and understanding society.Angela's journey began with a diagnosis at the age of 39, which she describes as a turning point that allowed her to embrace her unique neurodiverse perspective fully. Leveraging her lifelong special interest in non-fiction, she founded Difference Press™ and created The Author Incubator™, a program that has helped nearly 2,000 entrepreneurs write, publish, and promote their books. Angela's expertise and dedication have led her company to remarkable success, with her clients' books reaching millions of readers and generating significant revenue.Angela holds a B.A. and an M.A. in Journalism and Media Affairs from George Washington University and a Ph.D. in Communications from the European Graduate School as well as a graduate certificate in Corporate Social Responsibility from the Unviersity of Colorado Boulder. She is also a bestselling author of eight books, including neurodiversity-affirming titles like The Equalizing Quill and Make ‘Em Beg To Work For You, which have earned her acclaim and recognition in the publishing industry.Angela is not just an advocate; she is a beacon of inspiration, empowering autistic individuals and educating the broader community about the value of neurodiversity. Her advocacy extends beyond her professional work. She actively engages with audiences through social media platforms and her podcast, sharing her story and encouraging others to understand and embrace neurodiversity. Her commitment to making the world a safer and more inclusive place for neurodivergent people is evident in her storytelling, public speaking, and educational efforts designed to foster neuroinclusive workplaces and provide valuable insights into the benefits of neurodiverse teams and strategies for creating supportive environments for autistic individuals.Regulating Stims: echolalic singing, nail-biting, fidget bubble poppersAlliterative SPINs: Hamlet, Hamilton, John HammWebsite: https://angelakingdon.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelakingdon/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autisticculturepodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/drangelakingdonYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AutisticCulturePodcast

An episode that dives deep into the neurodivergent narrative!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * We kick off this episode by discussing Lena Dunham's EDS diagnosis, a condition frequently co-occurring with autism.* The reason HBO's Girls resonates with us so deeply is simple—it's an autistic show created by an autistic mind.* We start by discussing Lena Dunham's art school background and creative writing degree—writing is a special interest for many of us here at Autistica.* Lena Dunham's character in Girls constantly faces rejection as a writer and exhibits classic traits of rejection-sensitive dysphoria.* Additionally, her film Tiny Furniture highlights the challenges with transitions that autistic people often experience.* We discuss her memoir, Not That Kind of Girl: A Young Woman Tells You What She's Learned, exploring how its pages lend themselves to neurodivergent coding and how certain passages have been misinterpreted.* After being canceled over the passage in her memoir, Lena Dunham's career trajectory began to decline—coinciding with the time she started experiencing symptoms of chronic illness.* At this point, what happened to Lena Dunham was essentially autistic burnout—she hit a wall, just as many of us do!* Our hosts discuss how autistic people thrive when we have the freedom to do our own thing and maintain a high level of control over our work environments.* When we can't control our environments, it leads to conditions like EDS and POTS—often comorbid with neurodivergence—because of the heightened stress we experience.* In the show, which is loosely based on Dunham's own life, her character discusses sensitivities to clothing and struggles with transitions with her therapist—both hallmark autistic traits.* Lena Dunham has undoubtedly been misinterpreted—she has expressed taboo ideas in her work because she doesn't naturally pick up on social cues, which is inherently autistic.* The quirks Lena Dunham exhibits in certain episodes of Girls and in her personal life often come across as distinctly autistic-coded.* Another main character in the show, Shoshanna, is actually referred to as canonically autistic in Girls—and, well, we tend to stick together!* We also discuss the part of Girls where Dunham's character attends the Iowa Writers' Workshop and how these programs often trigger rejection-sensitive dysphoria and aren't designed to be neurodivergent-friendly.* This leads to a tie-in with our Neurodivergent Narratives writing workshop program for our paid members of Autistica, which offers a PDA-affirming and neurodivergence-affirming approach to writing workshops.* We talk about Lena Dunham's marriage to songwriting genius Jack Antonoff and how he exhibits neurodivergent coding in the songs he's written for his bands, Fun. and Bleachers.* Finally, we discuss the autistic connection between Lena Dunham and Taylor Swift, and what happens when autistic people recognize and understand each other.“When I tell people I'm autistic, they say, ‘I don't see it.' Then I say, ‘well, I'm a Taurus', and they say, ‘that makes sense.'” - Matt“A minute ago, we were talking about how exciting it is that she went to college, made a movie, went to South by Southwest, and got a film greenlit by HBO. Does this sound like an autistic thing that happens? Works 24 hours a day, wins every award, is a media darling, and then is f*****g hated by everyone?” - Angela“This is a common thing among autistic people, because when you're young and vital and stuff, you put a lot of energy out there and then, for some reason, we expect that we're going to be able to maintain that level of energy throughout our lives. We cannot.” - Matt“We experience far more stress than neurotypical people, because we live in a world that constantly bombards us with sensory information, with data. We have to mask all the time. We have more stuff that stresses us out than neurotypicals do. So, we are more likely to have all of these things, but again, we don't know if it's a 1:1 ratio that, just plain being autistic means it's more common.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We delved into how autism intersects with various aspects of life, from Lena Dunham's neurodivergent-coded characters to the struggles of navigating rejection-sensitive dysphoria and burnout. Tune in as we explore the nuances of being neurodivergent in creative spaces and the connections between autistic individuals, like Lena Dunham and Taylor Swift. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your experiences!Related Episodes:Taylor is Autistic - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/autistic-podcast-taylor-swift-is-autisticMeat Body Maintenance - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/autistic-podcast-meat-body-maintenanceShow notes:Aaron and Taylor: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lena-Dunhamhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Antonoffhttps://people.com/jack-antonoff-discusses-his-ocd-rituals-and-late-sister-8654926https://www.threads.net/%40oakleyjohansen/post/C8VvoEfS-54?utm_source=chatgpt.comYouTubeLena Dunham: Short Biography, Net Worth & Career HighlightsOctober 20, 2017 — Complete biography: http://celebritynetworth.wiki/lena-dunham-net-worth/ American actress, director, producer, screenwriter and author Lena ...Lena Dunham Reveals Her Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Diagnosis - Lena Dunham on Body Image, Clothing, and Sensory Sensitivities - Lena Dunham Discusses Chronic Illness and EDS in CNN Interview - https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/03/entertainment/lena-dunham-ehlers-danlos-trnd/index.htmlLena Dunham's Passion for Writing and Storytelling in HBO's Girl- https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/315/oa_monograph/chapter/2319659Lena Dunham's Blunt Communication Style and Public Controversy - https://medium.com/@isabellarosario/lena-dunhams-comments-on-chronic-illness-in-the-cut-draw-criticism-8c865d1ba3f9Lena Dunham on Her OCD, Anxiety, and Mental Health Struggles - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lena_DunhamLena Dunham on Routine, Structure, and Creativity in The New Yorker- https://www.newyorker.com/culture/the-new-yorker-interview/lena-dunhams-change-of-paceReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that tosses and turns!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Autistic people struggle greatly with sleep, and while it's not in the DSM, it definitely should be.* Many autistic traits overlap with factors that could contribute to sleep issues.* For example, sleep apnea is common in autistic individuals but often goes undiagnosed. Factors like muscle tone differences, sensory sensitivities, and co-occurring conditions may contribute, yet research on this connection remains limited.* A major factor leading to autistic burnout is not getting the physical rest we need, which ultimately contributes to exhaustion and burnout.* Autistic individuals also often experience delayed sleep phase onset, meaning we tend to be naturally late risers and stay up later as well.* Sleep issues are a common part of everyday life for autistic individuals, but they can be even more challenging for autistic children, who have less control over their routines.* One of the most common sleep problems is simply taking more than two minutes to fall asleep after lying down, a struggle that many autistic people face.* Additionally, both insomnia and hypersomnia are very common among autistic individuals.* Our interoceptive abilities are impaired, so while they may signal that something is wrong, they don't always let us know when we're tired.* Also, our bodies are also hypersensitive to environmental factors, making sleep even more difficult.* Autistic people struggle with transitions, making it difficult to both fall asleep and wake up.* One of the best ways for autistic people to reduce sleep problems is by embracing a low-demand lifestyle.* Sleep isn't optional—it's essential. Prioritizing good, healthy sleep is crucial to supporting your needs.* The best way to combat autistic sleep troubles is by creating a lifestyle that aligns with your needs—this means reducing unnecessary demands, honoring your natural sleep-wake cycle, managing sensory inputs, and building routines that support rest rather than force it.“We autistic people have meat bodies that just fall apart. And without good, restorative sleep, our bodies don't get the rest they need in order to rebuild. ” - Matt“Without good sleep, our bodies deteriorate, we might get fibromyalgia, it raises our cortisol levels, it can lead to epigenetic changes, it can be a factor that leads into POTS and lupus - a decreased immune response, or an increased immune response because we're on high alert all the time.” - Matt“It's not the kid's fault. It's not the parent's fault for how you wake up. It's society's fault for waking you up when you should not biologically be awake.” - Matt“I could have gone to a doctor's appointment every day for my narcolepsy, and they would have tried to find a cure. The cure was creating a low-demand lifestyle where I was unmasked and accepted that I am a part of a beautiful, rich tapestry of autistic culture. And then my narcolepsy went away, no drugs included.” - Angela “God, the obsession with melatonin. How about a life that you don't need melatonin from?” - AngelaDid you enjoy this episode? We explored how sleep challenges impact autistic individuals, from delayed sleep phases to sensory sensitivities and struggles with transitions. Tune in as we unpack why sleep issues are so common in autism and how they contribute to burnout. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your experiences!Related Episodes:Fairy Tales are AutisticChess is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

A dash into Sonic's appeal to autistic folks.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Our hosts kick off this episode by exploring Sonic's journey, from a Nintendo game to a Saturday morning cartoon to the epic blockbuster franchise we know today.* Next, we dive into the surprising connection between Sonic the Hedgehog and... Michael Jackson?* Michael Jackson was undoubtedly neurodivergent, and much of his persona can be attributed to heavy masking.* We discuss the personas that famous public figures like Taylor Swift, Walt Disney, and Michael Jackson become locked into, and how this can be a form of masking.* So, how does this tie back to Sonic? Well, Michael Jackson had a passion for video games and video game scores. He actually worked on the Sonic score but wasn't credited—similar to his uncredited work on The Simpsons.* There's a well-known connection between autistic people and Sonic, but unfortunately, much of the documentation comes from ABA practitioners.* ABA practitioners often attribute Sonic to just a special interest, which is ironic, considering Sonic's attack is literally called a SPIN.* The world of Sonic is incredibly stimmy, immersive, and can easily pull you into a monotropic flow state.* Additionally, the history of Sonic offers literal decades of lore to explore—including the movies, where Jim Carrey, likely an autistic person himself, came out of retirement to star.* Other autism-friendly aspects of Sonic include the bright colors, easily recognizable characters, and a whole Reddit community that connects Sonic to autism.* There's also an emphasis on justice sensitivity in Sonic, with all the villains being animals trapped in robots that you must free.* The games are also fast-paced, which works well for hyper-connected autistic brains.* Also, the Sonic games are also very predictable and follow a routine, making them super autism-friendly.* In conclusion, Sonic's immersive world, predictable gameplay, bright colors, and themes of justice sensitivity make it a uniquely autism-friendly franchise that resonates deeply with many autistic individuals, offering both comfort and connection.“Well, only autistic children exist, right? And then we grow out of it on our 18th birthday or something and they take our autism card away.” - Angela“One of the things with a hyper-connected brain is that we often think faster than most people. So when you're spinning and going through loops and jumping and everything, it captivates our attention. The gameplay is really, really inductive to a flow state. And we love our flow states. That's where our obsessions come from.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We explored how Sonic, as a franchise, connects with autism and neurodivergence, from its immersive world to its predictable gameplay and themes of justice. Tune in as we unpack how these elements resonate with many autistic individuals and how media can shape our understanding of neurodivergence. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your perspectives on the episode!Shoutout!We love The Good Art Friends, a podcast where good friends discuss good art! Each episode, Spencer and Jonathan, the neurodivergent hosts, dive into one of their special interests, sharing a piece of art that they love with listeners. This might be a book, movie, album, video game, comic book, or anything else that has lifted their hearts that month. The first half of the episode is a spoiler-free conversation about why that piece of media moved them, and then there's a time-stamped jump to insightful and entertaining analysis. They cover a wide array of topics, from Spider-Man to the Boy and the Heron and so much more, so scan through their backlog to find a piece of art that you connect with.It's always pleasant hearing good friends connect over good art, so be sure to tune into The Good Art Friends wherever you get your podcasts.Check out the Good Art Friends podcast at: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/the-good-art-friendsShow Notes:https://blog.delcampe.net/en/the-history-of-sonic-part-1-mascot-wars/https://theboar.org/2021/12/concept-creation-of-sonic/https://venturebeat.com/games/the-retrobeat-sonic-knuckles-turned-a-problem-into-success-25-years-ago/https://eccentricemmie.medium.com/what-is-it-with-autistic-people-and-sonic-the-hedgehog-fb3830a7cba1https://michael-jackson.fandom.com/wiki/Sonic_the_Hedgehog_3 YouTubeMichael Jackson SONGS in Sonic 3! - YouTubeFebruary 16, 2019 — By a request from Dr. Waluigi, this is a video on the infamous Michael Jackson's contributes to the Sonic the Hedgehog 3 soundtrack!https://imgur.com/a/sonic-hedgehog-origin-comic-1991-fshgCOxRelated Episodes:Related Episodes:Pokémon is Autistic - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/episode-16-pokemon-is-autisticAnimation is Autistic - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/episode-32-animation-is-autisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that's breaking barriers in discussing neurodivergence and disability rights.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, Matt and Angela discuss the "Make America Healthy Again" executive orders, the concept of "wellness camps," and their harmful impact on the neurodivergent and disabled communities.* We then explore the history of neurodivergence during the Nazi era, the horrific treatment neurodivergent people endured, and how Hans Asperger used Asperger's syndrome to separate autistic individuals deemed worthy of survival from those who were not.* The reality is, you can't "cancel" autism or neurodivergence—it's genetic and an inherent part of who we are.* Our hosts dive into the topic of internalized ableism within the neurodivergent community, particularly its prevalence among those with lower support needs.* Additionally, we discuss the issues with ABA and behaviorism, as well as Lovaas's role in both gay conversion therapy and ABA.* We also discuss Elon Musk—while he is autistic, he is not part of the autistic community or culture, as he does not embrace or support autistic ideals.* Our hosts examine the increasingly alarming policies of this administration, emphasizing that supporting it is a statement against the well-being and rights of autistic people.* This administration is actively working to dehumanize transgender people, and there is a significant overlap between the trans and disabled communities.* We discuss how autism levels are inherently biased, often correlating with one's ability to contribute to capitalism.* Disability is the one minority group that everyone will eventually belong to—at some point in life, everyone will experience disability.* Level three autistic people are often infantilized, while level one autistic people are frequently asked variations of, "Have you just tried suffering?"* We also explore the historical context of the "vaccines cause autism" myth—reminding everyone that autistic people have existed long before vaccines!* Finally, we discuss the importance of community during these times and the need to move away from relying on traditional systems. “People are ‘the parasite class' - because unless you're independently wealthy and pull yourself up by your bootstraps and have millions or billions or trillions of dollars, you are somehow a drain on the ‘great system' that is the United States.” - Matt“That's how neurotypical people lead their lives. Neurotypical people don't have an inner monologue. Neurotypical people are not pattern-followers. Neurotypical people trust the people above them socially to do what is in their best interest. These executive orders protect neurotypical people by getting rid of us pesky neurodivergent people that are somehow eating up neurotypical resources.” - Matt“We need people who will support us in the community, because we all need support. All humans need support. We are not individual islands. We all need to rely on each other, because the traditional systems will not take care of us.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We explore how autism and neurodivergence are deeply embedded in the world around us, from harmful policies to the biases within autism levels. Tune in as we unpack how society's treatment of neurodivergent and disabled individuals shapes our lives, and why supporting certain systems can harm our community. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your perspectives on the episode!Show Notes:https://www.facebook.com/drangelakingdon/posts/pfbid0MUr89WMxZoonBTaBwef2yAtGyQFTrB8etJbjC7XoobJF8iRjP3ghr3TdoHdaCPRDlhttps://autisticadvocacy.org/2025/02/asan-condemns-announcement-of-presidents-make-america-healthy-again-commission-and-harmful-ideas-about-autism-and-other-disabilities/Related Episodes:Fighting Internalized AbleismReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that's Much Ado About Autism!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, Matt and Angela welcome special guest and Shakespeare expert Dr. Sonya Freeman Loftis to explore how the Bard's works connect with autistic culture.* Sonya shares how she began studying Shakespeare through a disability lens and explores how some of his characters embody neurodivergent traits.* We discuss how the Globe Theatre is highly accommodating of disabilities and how Shakespeare's works are often featured in “relaxed performances” or autism-friendly showings.* Additionally, we explore the existence of Shakespeare therapy and how his works bring comfort in settings ranging from prisons to assisted living facilities.* Because of its complex language, Shakespeare's work requires a lot of bottom-up processing—something that comes naturally to us autistic folks.* We also talk about how Hamlet's deep melancholy and introspection can easily be understood through a neurodivergent lens.* "To be or not to be" is honestly the most famous autistic inertia quote of all time.* Our hosts and Sonya also dive into the character of Coriolanus, exploring how his lack of social interest and strong sense of justice make him an inherently autistic character.* Tragic heroes often embody neurodivergent experiences—whether it's Macbeth, King Lear, Othello, or Hamlet, each character reflects traits that resonate with the neurodivergent journey.* We discuss the ableism faced by Othello due to his epilepsy and how his character highlights the broader theme of otherness in Shakespeare's works—showing that understanding Shakespeare means understanding the experience of being viewed as different.* The emotional intensity of Shakespeare's plays can be deeply cathartic for the autistic reader, offering a powerful release through the raw, unfiltered emotions of his characters.* In Shakespeare's works, due to the time period, neurodivergent traits are often used for comic relief or are punished in some way, reflecting the societal attitudes of his era towards difference.* It's hard to say whether Shakespeare himself was autistic, as little is known about him biographically, but it's fascinating to see the ways disabled people have claimed his work and found resonance in his characters and themes.* However, Shakespeare could have been neurodivergent simply due to the sheer volume of writing he produced and the vast amount of knowledge he seemed to hold, which could suggest a unique cognitive perspective.* Shakespeare's work continues to be adapted and reclaimed to this day—like Baz Luhrmann's iconic Romeo + Juliet—as well as through neurodivergent Shakespeare meetups, where his plays are reinterpreted and embraced by new audiences.* Finally, we discuss the non-reciprocal, autistic language in Hamlet and how Shakespearean theater often breaks away from the rules and conventions of neurotypical performances, making it easier for neurodivergent audiences to have their needs met.“As a person with a disability, I felt frustrated sometimes when I would go to Shakespeare conferences and find that most of the focus was only on characters. And I thought, ‘okay, but what about the real people with disabilities who read Shakespeare and perform in Shakespeare plays and go to Shakespeare theaters?' And, you know, why isn't anyone writing anything about them?” - Dr. Sonya Freeman Loftis“One of the things that makes [Shakespeare] autistic culture representative is that because it is not in vernacular English, you have to bottom-up process. You need a dramaturg. You have to break down every single thing.” - Angela“Growing up as an autistic person, I never understood all of the conversation around me. I could understand some of it, but I never understood all of it. Neurotypical people use so many words and there was so much conversation. And I feel like that acceptance of not understanding it all has helped me to be a better reader of Shakespeare.” - Dr. Sonya Freeman Loftis“Average people throughout history did not make history. The average person lived and died largely forgotten living an average life. If you do something that is divergent, like making a whole bunch of plays that live on for centuries after your death, that is indicative of neurodivergence. Average people live average lives. And if you want to be outstanding, you got to be standing out.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? All the world's a stage, but Shakespeare's works might just be the most autistic of them all. We dive into the deeply neurodivergent themes, characters, and language that make the Bard's plays resonate with the autistic experience. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your favorite autistic Shakespeare moments!Show Notes:https://morehouse.academia.edu/SonyaLoftishttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910377_William_Shakespeare_was_on_the_Autism_Spectrum_Asperger%27s_Syndrome_First_DraftReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Autistics struggle with employment for a variety of reasons. It may be hard to get a job and harder to keep one. Some autistics have to accept jobs that are not a match for their skills. Hear why a huge percentage of autistics are unemployed or underemployed.Support the showNOW RATED IN THE TOP 0.5% GLOBALLY!-->Free 30-day trial for the podcast listeners! https://try.sunsama.com/xi4blkokndgk (affiliate link which helps the podcast) No credit card needed. Want to be a guest or know someone who would be a good guest? Fill out this form: https://tinyurl.com/autguestspotInstagram: anautisticwoman https://www.instagram.com/anautisticwoman/Ko-fi, PayPal, Patreon at this link: https://linktr.ee/theautisticwomanLinktree: https://linktr.ee/theautisticwomanEmail: info@theautisticwoman.comWebsite: theautisticwoman.comCheck out other autistic shows:The Horse Human Connection Matrix: https://tinyurl.com/authhcmThe Autistic Culture Podcast: https://tinyurl.com/auttacpFrom The Spectrum: https://tinyurl.com/autftsYoSamdySam: https://www.youtube.com/@YoSamdySamBeyond 6 Seconds: https://tinyurl.com/autbssOrion Kell...

An episode that checks all the vital signs.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, our hosts dive into part two, a follow-up to our previous episode on autistic medical needs.* Autistic people often experience comorbid conditions, many of which stem from the distressing effects of navigating a neurotypical world. These can include POTS, MCAS, PMDD, PCOS, PTSD, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, among others. On the bright side, we're at a lower risk for cancer!* Living in a world designed for neurotypicals is inherently traumatic for autistic people, often leading to chronic stress that impacts our physical health. This distress can contribute to comorbid conditions like POTS, MCAS, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, making medical advocacy a crucial but often exhausting necessity.* We discuss the pathological demand compliance that neurotypicals seem to exhibit, blindly following societal expectations without questioning them. This tendency contrasts with autistic people's need to understand the why behind demands, making medical self-advocacy even more challenging.* Bottom-up processing means we're constantly researching and analyzing potential medical issues, often coming to our own conclusions before seeing a doctor. However, the medical system doesn't always operate this way, making it frustrating when our self-advocacy is dismissed or misunderstood.* Neurotypical doctors, due to the intensity and nature of their training, can carry a lot of internalized ableism. As a result, they don't always react well to autistic patients who have done their own research and come prepared with information about their condition.* We talk about the issue of medical gaslighting and how it happens frequently to autistic people, where our symptoms and concerns are dismissed or belittled by healthcare professionals.* Additionally, systemic racism remains rampant in the medical field alongside ableism, further complicating the already difficult experience for multiply marginalized autistic people seeking proper care and recognition of their needs.* Our hosts discuss the issues with medication, highlighting how it's often more hit or miss than many would like to believe, especially when it comes to finding the right treatment for autistic individuals.* We talk about how frustrating it is when you have to be assertive about your needs at the doctor's, only to have it perceived as aggression, even though you're just advocating for your health.* There is an importance now more than ever to teach neurotypical healthcare providers how to properly interact with their neurodivergent patients, ensuring they feel heard, understood, and respected in their medical care.* We discuss the struggle of having to mask in doctor's offices and the importance of doing your own research to accompany doctor's visits, as it's often necessary to ensure your concerns are taken seriously.* Going to the doctor's is a masterclass in masking—showing just the right amount of emotion and care to avoid being seen as too detached or overly emotional, all while trying to communicate your needs effectively.* Our hosts discuss how to "fake" being neurotypical by understanding the intricacies of top-down processing, where we learn to mimic expected behaviors and responses, even if they don't come naturally to us.* Having autistic connections is so important because when we find a provider who is autism-affirming or discover medical information that could help our community, we need to shout it from the rooftops to ensure everyone has access to that support.* In times like these, especially with medical situations and the ongoing DEI crisis, we need to lean on our communities more than ever for support, knowledge, and solidarity.“We like to be in the background. We like to be in the shadows. We like to not be judged, because it's safer there. Because otherwise, there is a chance that we will be judged, we will be left out, people will actively dislike us. But, if we are invisible, there's no chance for that to happen.” - Matt“Living in a neurotypical world is inherently traumatic for us. The CPTSD rate is so high for autistic people that neurotypical people can't tell what's CPTSD and what's autism traits. That's the thing about the anxiety and the depression and the gastrointestinal distress and all of this stuff. It's not normal autistic stuff. It's autistic distress cues.” - Matt“The bias is that, ‘if there's a way to fix it easily, then let's fix it easily.' And I don't think that's wrong, but it ends up feeling a whole lot like gaslighting and being pushed away when we know real things are happening.” - Angela “But here's the thing, because you don't know you as well as this doctor knows you, because this doctor has a degree and went to school and they know all the things. They are God-like.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We dive into the challenges of navigating a neurotypical world with a neurodivergent brain, exploring the medical hurdles and advocacy we face. From medical gaslighting to the struggles of masking in doctor's offices, we discuss how these issues impact our health and well-being. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your experiences and connect with others on social media!Related Episodes: Autistic Medical NeedsReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that Anne'-swers all your questions!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * We kick off this episode by diving into autism misdiagnoses and the controversy surrounding Kanye West.* We explore how neurotypical stigmas surrounding autism contribute to misdiagnoses, leading to misunderstandings, overlooked diagnoses, and incorrect labels that impact autistic individuals' lives.* Autistic people are often the best at recognizing and diagnosing other autistic people—real recognize real.* We then dive into the heart of our episode—Anne of Green Gables—and explore how this beloved story is delightfully autistic in all the best ways.* Anne, our protagonist, is the quintessential outsider—she doesn't fit in and doesn't care to. Sound familiar?* Anne Shirley is constantly told she's 'too much'—too talkative, too dramatic, too imaginative, and always just a little outside the norm* The original Anne of Green Gables was written in 1908, during the Industrial Revolution—an era of chaotic transition for many, including autistic individuals, who were beginning to adjust to life in a rapidly changing capitalist society.* A lot of autistic people are drawn to turn-of-the-century fiction, like Anne of Green Gables or Little House on the Prairie, because it evokes a time when life felt less complex and the world seemed more predictable.* Anne Shirley is an orphan, and many autistic people can relate to that feeling of being an outsider or disconnected, much like the concept of Wrong Planet Syndrome that Angela discusses—where autistic individuals feel as though they're from a different world entirely.* The book experienced massive critical and commercial success over the years, spawning sequels, a Disney movie, an anime adaptation, and more.* Anne of Green Gables holds a huge cultural impact and status in Japan, a country that embodies many facets of autistic culture, from its deep appreciation for routine and order to its rich traditions of storytelling and introspection.* We discuss Anne's author, Lucy Maud Montgomery, and how she based the character of Anne on her own life, highlighting the autistic-coded traits that are reflected in Anne's personality and experiences.* In addition, we also analyze some of Anne's inherently autistic traits, like her use of echolalia, infodumping, and her intense "spins"—those passionate, often over-the-top moments where she loses herself in her thoughts and imagination.* Matt and Angela dive into the concept of internalized ableism, exploring how it often takes significantly more effort and output for autistic people to achieve success, as they navigate societal expectations that aren't built for neurodivergent minds.* We discuss how unschooling often gets bad PR, while also examining how factory schools were created during the Industrial Revolution to train students to work for 8 hours a day in factories, shaping the education system we know today.* Next, we explore the neurodivergent friendship dynamics in the series, such as the unique bond between Anne and Gilbert, which is built on an intellectual connection with little to no small talk, showcasing other neurodivergent tendencies like deep, focused conversation and mutual understanding.* Additionally, talk about the importance of echolalia and neurodivergent-coded language processing in Anne's character and how it shapes her communication style.* Autistic people have a different structure of language; we use the same words but approach concepts in unique ways. When we communicate with other autistic people, there's a shared understanding that transcends typical language norms.* We talk about Anne's physical stimming and how people in her town of Avonlea were not pleased with it, often misunderstanding or criticizing her behavior.* Anne has sensory issues aplenty, including ones that influence her choice of dress and what she wears, highlighting her sensitivity to certain fabrics and styles.* Finally, we touch on how Anne struggles with masking and is constantly pressured to fit in, highlighting the challenges of trying to conform to societal expectations while staying true to herself.“This is the thing - the people who are good at diagnosing autism might not be as neurotypical as they think they are. The neurotypicals tend to be very bad at diagnosing autism.” - Matt“When I picture Anne of Green Gables, I picture her surrounded by Kermit the Frog dressed as Clark Gable.” - Matt“It's all very well to read about sorrows and imagine yourself living through them heroically - but it's not so nice when you really come to have them, is it?” - Anne Shirley“There's such a lot of different ands in me. I sometimes think that is why I'm such a troublesome person.” - Anne Shirley“I have always lived in a world of imagination; I kept it shut up within myself for fear of ridicule.” - Lucy Maud Montgomery“This is why we get thrown into ‘social skills groups' and ‘social skills training' - because neurotypicals want us to be like them instead of acknowledging that we are different and accepting our differences because it's colonization b******t.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We dive into the neurodivergent themes in Anne of Green Gables, exploring Anne's traits, sensory issues, and the challenges she faces in Avonlea. We discuss how her unique communication style and physical stimming set her apart, while also reflecting on how society views neurodivergence. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:Reddit Discussion: Anne Shirley—Anne of Green Gables and AutismA Reddit thread where users discuss the possibility of Anne Shirley being autistic, citing her creativity, emotional experiences, and social interactions.https://www.reddit.com/r/FanTheories/comments/w1om6v/anne_shirleyanne_of_green_gables_and_autism/YouTube Video: Autism in Anne of Green GablesA video analysis exploring the autistic traits of major characters in Anne of Green Gables.Article: Autistic-Coded TV and Film CharactersAn article that includes Anne Shirley-Cuthbert from Anne with an E among characters interpreted as autistic-coded.https://thewyrdsisters.co.uk/autistic-coded-characters/Medium Article: Characters That Ping Our NeuroScopesA piece discussing various characters, including Anne Shirley, who exhibit traits that resonate with neurodivergent experiences.https://medium.com/@autisticlouzanna/characters-that-ping-our-neuroscopes-2c42437410efPubMed Article: Lucy Maude Montgomery and Anne of Green Gables: An Early Description of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity DisorderAn academic article analyzing Anne Shirley's behaviors in the context of ADHD, which shares overlapping traits with autism.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28697270/Facebook Post by Kristy Forbes—Autism & ND SupportA post discussing the portrayal of Anne in the series Anne with an E, highlighting traits that may align with autism.https://www.facebook.com/inTunePathways/posts/recently-i-started-watching-anne-with-an-e-its-a-series-based-on-the-novel-by-lu/985985522010541/Related Episodes: Dimensions of Autistic CultureOnly Murders is AutisticCommunity is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Welcome to this guided meditation, created with autistic and neurodivergent brains in mind.Meditation is often depicted a certain way — sitting still, cross-legged, eyes closed. But here, we do things differently. Here, you are invited to make meditation your own. Maybe that means sitting in a way that feels natural to you. Maybe that means allowing gentle movement, like rocking or fidgeting. Maybe it means simply listening and letting the words wash over you while you garden or play with an animal friend.This meditation is a space for acceptance. A space for softening. A space for replenishing what you need in this moment, whatever that may be.Together, we'll breathe deeply, reconnect with our bodies, and visualize the flowing river of a new year — steady, constant, full of possibility. You are exactly as you need to be. You are whole, just as you are.Take a deep breath, settle in however feels right, and let's begin!This meditation is brought to you by The Other Autism podcast's patrons. Thank you, dear patrons, for your ongoing support, and for workshopping this episode with me, trialing it before publication, and offering suggestions and feedback for further meditation episodes.  Theme music: "Everything Feels New" by Evgeny Bardyuzha. All episodes written and produced by Kristen Hovet.Send in your questions or thoughts via audio or video recording for a chance to be featured on the show! Email your audio or video clips to otherautism@gmail.com through WeTransfer. Become a patron on Patreon!Buy me a coffee!Buy The Other Autism merch. Use code FREESHIP for free shipping on orders over $75 USD! The views, opinions, and experiences shared by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or production team. The content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical or professional advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to your health, fitness, or wellness.

An episode that plays around with the rules!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Our hosts, Matt and Angela, kick off the episode by discussing the current state of the world, the chaos surrounding it, and how they navigate through it.* We discuss the importance of community and ongoing advocacy, emphasizing the need to stay strong and keep pushing forward for autistic children.* Our special guest, Meghan Ashley, LPC-S, is an autistic licensed professional counselor and the author of Blueprint to Behavior, a practical guide for parents looking to better understand their autistic children's communication and needs. * Meghan's supervisory practice is neurodivergence-affirming, and she teaches clinicians worldwide about autism assessment.* We discuss the importance of having a secure accommodation plan after a diagnosis and how receiving a diagnosis means doing the necessary work to care for yourself in order to live your best autistic life.* Matt shares the unfortunate experience his son had with his autism diagnosis and emphasizes the need for the diagnostic process to evolve into a more comprehensive and supportive experience.* Meghan's mission is to ensure that this is the last generation of autistic kids whose parents feel lost or unsure about how to understand and support them.* We discuss Meghan's experience delivering a TED Talk, where she passionately shared her mission to change the landscape of autism understanding and support. She reflects on the impact of her message, emphasizing the urgent need to equip parents with the knowledge and resources to better support their autistic children.* Meghan shares the overwhelmingly positive response her TED Talk received within the autism community, highlighting how her message resonated deeply with both parents and autistic individuals. She reflects on how especially meaningful it was to hear that an autistic audience member felt affirmed and seen through her words.* We discussed TED Talk preparation with Meghan and how, in true autistic fashion, she was the only speaker that day who opted to forgo a coach, choosing instead to craft and deliver her talk entirely on her own.* Our hosts chat with Meghan about her book, Blueprint to Behavior, and dive into the experiences of neurodivergent parents—many of whom may not even recognize their own neurodivergence while navigating parenthood.* Meghan's book embraces the theme that autistic kids are whole just as they are, emphasizing that parents must take the time to truly understand their children's wants and needs rather than trying to change them.* Themes in Meghan's book include showing grace as a parent of an autistic child, while also maintaining accountability. It focuses on how to parent and love your autistic child in the best way possible, honoring their individuality and unique needs.* Meghan and our hosts discuss the impact of autistic parenting styles, with Meghan describing it as, "your house is chaotic until you figure out what you need it to do for you." She emphasizes how, for neurodivergent parents, creating a home environment that works for everyone often involves trial and error, but ultimately leads to a more harmonious and supportive space.* We discuss how internalized ableism can play a role in this process, acknowledging that neurodivergent parents may sometimes struggle with societal expectations or their own preconceived notions about what "normal" parenting should look like. This internalized ableism can impact how they approach both their own needs and those of their autistic children.* The target audience for Meghan's book is parents who believe that ABA is the only effective route for their child. Meghan encourages them to explore alternative approaches that honor their child's autonomy, emphasizing that there are other, more respectful methods to support their child's growth and well-being.* We talk about how to better understand your kids' sensory needs, especially when they don't yet have the language to express them. Meghan emphasizes the importance of observing behaviors and triggers, and learning to interpret nonverbal cues to meet their sensory requirements effectively.* As autistic people who are late diagnosed, sometimes we find ourselves needing to parent both our autistic child and ourselves. Meghan discusses how this dual responsibility can be challenging, but also a path to greater self-understanding, self-compassion, and the ability to better support our children.* Meghan's autism assessment process involves a deeply reflective approach, where individuals bring in childhood photos of themselves, especially ones with their special interest. She encourages apologizing to your younger self for any past misunderstandings and thanking them for helping you get to where you are now. From there, Meghan guides individuals to let go of past struggles and learn coping skills that allow them to live authentically.* As an autistic person, it's important to always have your accommodations present wherever you go. Whether it's sensory tools, communication aids, or strategies for self-regulation, having these supports readily available helps ensure you can navigate the world in a way that honors your needs and promotes your well-being.* We have to adapt to a mostly neurotypical world while also accommodating ourselves and our children. Despite the challenges, we're going to live and thrive, whether society wants us to or not. It's about asserting our place and creating spaces where we and our children can be fully ourselves.* Finally, we discuss Meghan's experience being Black and autistic in America, and how this adds unique layers to her advocacy work. She highlights the extra challenges Black autistic children face, especially when it comes to safety, and how the traditional ABA approach can be particularly predatory to the Black autistic community. Meghan stresses the importance of culturally competent support and the need to advocate for alternative, more respectful approaches.Meghan Ashley, LPC-S (She/Her) is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas. She prides herself on providing a space where people can be their full selves and explore who they are destined to become. Meghan focuses on empowering people to understand their own beliefs, thoughts, and actions to help them to learn to better understand themselves.Meghan received her Master of Science in Counseling psychology from Louisiana State University Shreveport. Throughout her career Meghan has worked with clients identifying, celebrating, and maintaining their authenticity. Working with Autistic adults has been Meghan's passion from the beginning.Outside of therapy, Meghan loves photography, reading historical fiction, designing t-shirts and exploring cities with her family. If you catch her at a stoplight, she is most likely rocking out to a Disney movie soundtrack. Meghan values the psychology of different cultures and studies life like the forever student she hopes to always be.Book link and synopsis:https://a.co/d/9KblB09Blueprint to Behavior is a book rich with practical answers to the question "what is my Autistic child communicating to me with their behaviors?". From the worksheets to the enriching examples, this book covers the spectrum on an everyday at-home vibe of how Autism presents and needs to be cared for. Meghan Ashley, MSCP, LPC-S serves as a fountain of parental knowledge perfectly blended with therapeutic expertise which shines a light on rarely talked about Autistic family dynamics. This book is for you if you want to take the guess work out of figuring out your child's wants and needs and instead have tools to know how to parent an Autistic child. Autistic people have a different way of thinking, expressing, and processing information from the world around them. They need a different way of parenting that matches their unique worldview and needs.“That is the purpose of all this bombardment - to disrupt us, to disrupt communities, to disrupt functioning so that people can't formulate a way to stand up for themselves, because it's much easier to control people if you don't have community. If you disrupt community, if you disrupt basic human rights, it's much easier to control people.” - Matt“[When you get an autism diagnosis], choirs of angels don't show up on your doorstep when you get home. You actually have to do something with the diagnosis. You don't get a prescription.” - Angela “I absolutely don't say you should be more normal. You should be more autistic is what I say. If the world was more autistic, then things would probably run better, and it wouldn't be as, you know, *dumpster fire*.” - Meghan Ashley, LPC-S“[Having gone through therapy school], we are not taught anything about learning about autistic people or how to address autistic family issues, because we're taught about neurotypical families. We're taught about how to establish these neurotypical hierarchies and triangles and all this other stuff. But everything I've learned about autism comes from other autistic people, comes from my own experience as a therapist, my own experience as a father, my own experience working with autistic people.” - Matt“As an autistic person, you take my experience as fact and that's it. It's not up for debate.” - Meghan Ashley, LPC-S“When I do my assessments, I have my clients bring in pictures of them when they were kids, pictures of them with their special interests and all of these amazing ways that have made up this entire human who is an autistic person. And we apologize to that baby, because nobody knew. Nobody knew how to help them. They found these coping skills that sometimes work, sometimes don't, that got them to where they are today. And then, we let that go. Because now, we're in a different place where we can figure out what we actually want and need. And we can actually live more authentically and artistically and happily in this space.” - Meghan Ashley, LPC-SDid you enjoy this episode? Our special guest, Meghan Ashley, shares her insights on parenting autistic children and embracing neurodivergence. We explore the challenges of understanding sensory needs, creating accommodations, and how to live authentically as neurodivergent individuals. Meghan also reflects on her experience as a Black autistic person in America and the importance of safe, respectful support for Black autistic children. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:https://www.instagram.com/mperfectconsulting/Ted Talk: Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Blueprint-Behavior-Adapting-Understanding-Behaviors/dp/B0D83L3MJYToolKits: https://adaptingtoautism.com/Related Episodes:Bad Autism DiagnosisChild-to-Parent Diagnostic PipelineReframing DSM Autism CriteriaSunglasses are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that's packing its bags and info-dumping along the way.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Amidst the chaos in America, Matt and Angela, with special guest Abigoliah Schamaun, dive into why being an expat is inherently autistic.* Today's special guest, Abigoliah Schamaun, is a stand-up comedian who's been all over the game show circuit—including Pointless, a wonderful little quiz show where the goal is simply to get the wrong answer.* Abigoliah moved from Ohio to the UK, hosts the neurodivergent podcast Neurodivergent Moments, and has gained TikTok fame—along with a touch of international recognition.* Our guest, Abigoliah, moved to New York at 18 to study musical theater—but ended up falling in love with the world of stand-up.* Angela and Abigoliah trade expat tales and unpack Angela's very scientific theory that moving abroad is just autism with extra passport stamps.* We chat about how being neurodivergent can get totally upstaged by being American—especially when being American is the main event!* Angela and Abigoliah discuss how podcasting toes the line between freelancing and running your own business, and how burnout can totally mess with posting on socials and creating content.* We dive into post-diagnosis clarity and the importance of giving yourself grace while navigating burnout.* Our hosts and guest chat about cultural differences, especially the contrasts between the UK and the USA—particularly when it comes to gun violence.* We also address the elephant in the room—the glaring differences between the healthcare systems in the UK and the USA.* In addition, we explore the neurodivergent podcast landscape and dive into the challenges and benefits of cross-neurotype communication.* We also discuss the trouble with professional autism diagnoses and segue into a surprise promotion for our new book (you'll have to listen to the episode for all the juicy details!)* Finally, we chat about Abigoliah's upcoming spring comedy tour, which you should definitely check out if you're in the UK!New York comedian, actor and writer, Abigoliah Schamaun is frank, funny, and unapologetic. Her unbridled charisma and comedic skill have taken her all over the world cementing her place as one of the top female headliners on the UK comedy scene. Having cut her teeth gigging in America she moved to the UK where she immediately placed as a finalist in the Funny Women Awards and has since focussed on growing her large fan following. On TikTok her stand up and comedy cooking clips have amassed over 10 million views and she has hundreds of thousands of followers.Abigoliah lives with ADHD and is very open in talking about her neurodiversity which she does with co-host Joe Wells on their Neurodivergent Moments Podcast.“As an autistic person, there's the whole ‘you're born on the wrong planet.' I walked around the US feeling like I didn't fit in, but there was no real good reason, because I actually was born there. Here, I feel like I don't fit in and I'm like awkward and do these really embarrassing things, but it's always attributed to me being American.” - Angela “I hate it when comedians do bits in conversation, I really want to empathize, but this was my reaction - ‘You're not autistic, you're just English.' Cause like, he's quiet. He's emotionally subdued. He likes bland food. And when he was like, ‘you're ADHD', I was like, ‘no, you don't understand. These are my people. We're loud. We're talkative. It's just being an American. You don't get it.” - Abigoliah “The one thing that I would say the diagnosis has given me is it has just allowed me to give myself some grace. Like if I'm in burnout, if I can't function one day, I'm like, ‘if I just give myself 24 hours, I'll be okay tomorrow. If I rest today, I'll be okay tomorrow.'” - Abigoliah“I just find that my nervous system is so much more relaxed without guns and with national healthcare.” - Angela Did you enjoy this episode? Our special guest, Abigoliah Schamaun, takes us through her journey from Ohio to the UK, where she fell in love with stand-up comedy. We dive into cultural differences between the UK and the USA, especially regarding gun violence, and discuss the challenges of freelancing, burnout, and how it affects content creation. We also touch on post-diagnosis clarity and the importance of giving yourself grace during tough times. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:https://www.patreon.com/neurodivergentmomentspodUk Tour in the spring on sale now. "Legally Cheeky" abigoliah.com/tourhttps://shows.acast.com/neurodivergent-momentsNeurodivergent Moments on any podcast app@abigoliah on all socialsPointless Celebrities Series 16. Episode 17Pointless Celebrities - Series 16: Episode 17BBC23 Mar 2024Related Episodes:Comedy is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that's processing all the right ideas!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's advocacy episode, we tackle the beast that is internalized ableism. We all experience it—but how do we overcome it?* Due to the social model of disability, many autistic people say, "But I'm not disabled!"—when in reality, this is internalized ableism at work.* Our autistic meat bodies get exhausted just from processing stimuli and existing. The world is built for neurotypical survival—yet when we struggle, we're met with, “Have you just tried suffering?”* There is nothing wrong with being disabled—but at the same time, a huge part of our success is out of our control and depends on access to accommodations.* It can be hard to find the balance between doing your best and pushing your limits through masking—which, while it may reveal what you're "capable" of, can also be utterly torturous.* Our hosts discuss the dangers of masking to your limits and how it inevitably leads to burnout.* Due to our bottom-up processing, we're constantly taking in way more information at once than neurotypicals. In Uno terms—it's like we're always drawing a Draw 4 card.* We dive into skill regression and how burnout can hit you like a freight train out of nowhere.* In this episode, Matt and Angela discuss internalized ableism, the dangers of masking, and how burnout and skill regression can hit unexpectedly.* Our hosts discuss mourning the opportunities, friendships, relationships, and job prospects lost when burnout hits.* We discuss the subtle discrimination that arises when neurotypicals judge us as lazy or perceive us negatively due to burnout, without understanding the crucial context of our disability.* Coming out of the neurocloset is so important, though it often comes with immense fear of being judged.* In addition to this, we discuss the right to privacy regarding one's diagnosis, considering the judgment from neurotypicals and the fact that certain states, like Indiana, have autism registries—leaving us uncertain about their intentions.* You might not even realize you're autistic until you have an autistic child or reach burnout. The world is definitely set up for neurotypicals, and many people don't realize they're not neurotypical until they examine the systems they've created for survival in a neurotypical-dominant world.* We talk about how internalized ableism fuels unnecessary infighting within the autism community, such as disputes over functioning labels and levels.* Matt and Angela discuss non-speaking autism and how, contrary to neurotypical opinions, AAC devices actually facilitate speech rather than prevent individuals from ever learning to speak.* Guess what? Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) are actually often just autistic, with it being a rebrand of Asperger's, especially among women.* Internalized ableism is often passed down through your autistic lineage, creating patterns that you need to actively work to break. You may slip up and engage in ableist behavior, but it's important to recognize that and know how to address it within yourself.* Angela and Matt talk about their own autistic children and how, for them, doing the work against internalized ableism means making the world better and safer for their kids, while advocating for them.* We talk about autistic pride and how important it is—be proud that you're a zebra, and don't let the world beat you up for not being a horse!* The more you learn about your own needs, the more leeway you can give yourself—whether it's wearing big sunglasses, turning off the bright lights, using the little spoon, or whatever else helps you thrive.* Accommodating yourself and learning more about your own needs is one of the best ways to combat internalized ableism, build a happy, healthy autistic life, and advocate for the community as well.“Due to the social model of disability, we autistic people are disabled. And if you say, ‘but I am autistic and I am not disabled', then that actually is the internalized ableism.” - Matt“When you think, ‘everyone else can do this, why can't I?' - it's the same as a person in a wheelchair saying, ‘everyone else can use the stairs. Why can't my legs work?” - Matt“It requires a certain amount of therapy & personal exploration to identify, ‘what are my actual limits?' Like, where am I disabled? What are my things, versus where should I maybe not be giving up so quickly on certain things?” - Angela“Every machine has limits. A bulldozer can push more than a Camaro. And if you try to make a bulldozer act like a Camaro or vice versa, it's going to damage either machine.” - Matt “For me, the booby prize of having a major burnout episode is that I can't - I literally can't do it anymore. And I'm like, ‘where did it go? I used to be able to do that. Where did it go?'” - Angela“Neurotypicals look at [burnout] and say, ‘wow, how lazy of him not to be at work for a month. There must be something wrong with him. He must be crazy.' And then there's all sorts of discrimination based on that.” - Matt“We can't come out of the neurocloset and be ourselves if we can't be publicly proud of who we are. We're going to judge ourselves based on this artificial standard. Because if they're going to judge us, we say, ‘then in that case, there's a reason that they're judging me.' Because again, we're very reason-oriented people. We have the data, we have the logic. And it's incredibly hurtful to carry around this guilty secret that we can't say to people.” - Matt“We are the autistic culture. We come from a long line of autistic people. We see the traits better than a lot of neurotypical people with many degrees. We live the life. We know what it is. And we are people, same as any other. We're not worse than other people. We're not better than other people.” - Matt“Don't be so judgmental - of yourself, or others. And I think you'll live a longer, happier life.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We dive deep into internalized ableism, the challenges of burnout, and how masking can lead to exhaustion. We also touch on the importance of autistic pride and how to accommodate yourself for a healthier, happier life. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Related Episodes:Bad Autism DiagnosisReframing DSM DiagnosisReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Eneasz tells Jen about Sympathetic Opposition's How and Why to be Ladylike (For Women with Autism), and the podcast takes a 1-episode break

An episode that's out of this world!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In this episode, Matt and Angela explore the autistic coding in the sci-fi series The Orville and the role its showrunner, Seth MacFarlane, plays in shaping this representation.* Seth MacFarlane may be one of us—his intense special interests and strong sense of justice are hallmark autistic traits.* As MacFarlane's popularity in Hollywood grew, so did his willingness to speak out. He called out Kevin Spacey's crimes before they were widely known to the public and also publicly condemned Harvey Weinstein.* Seth MacFarlane had a deep special interest in Star Trek: The Next Generation, even featuring its stars as guest actors in episodes of Family Guy. He aspired to be a showrunner for Star Trek: The Next Generation and pitched reboot concepts, but they were either denied or not picked up. While his 2017 show The Orville is technically unrelated to Star Trek, it feels like MacFarlane's own take on the franchise.* Everyone on The Orville has a more or less direct counterpart in Star Trek: The Next Generation, with numerous interdimensional links and hidden Easter eggs woven throughout the show.* We explore the show's themes of gender identity, including the rampant misogyny within Moklin culture, where women are so despised that they are forcibly altered to become male. We also discuss the show's gay coding and its deeper implications.* Matt and Angela discuss how The Orville features many of the same cast members from Seth MacFarlane's other projects, much like the signature casting styles of Tim Burton or David Lynch. They also touch on how MacFarlane's Ted TV series is another standout work.* We discuss autistic pretty privilege and how Seth MacFarlane may be leveraging it to his advantage in Hollywood.* We explore the possibility that Seth MacFarlane uses monotropic focus to write The Orville and his other works, honing in on specific interests and themes with intense attention.* Our hosts talk about autistic-coded characters in The Orville, like Isaac, who displays autistic traits such as a focus on accuracy and a strong sense of self-awareness.* Season three of The Orville highlights Isaac's justice sensitivity, as he is ostracized and treated like a pariah for refusing to support genocide, in contrast to the rest of his race.* The move from Fox to Hulu proved to be beneficial for the show, allowing it to further explore social justice themes and highlight the autistic-coded traits in its characters.* The show features a character on Krill who manipulates a cult of personality to stir up frenzy against the Union, echoing the tactics of a certain orange man. Fox, with its religious ties, was hesitant to prioritize storylines like this, but after switching to Hulu, MacFarlane was able to dive deeper into these themes.* The show offers remarkable autistic-coded representation, with the Moklins and the Zileans being very by-the-book, Bortus and Klyden forming the perfect autistic-coded gay couple, and Seth MacFarlane's showrunning tying all the autism representation together.* Finally, we discuss the upcoming season 4, which has been teased, and share our thoughts on what's in store for the future of this incredibly autistic program.“If you haven't seen The Orville, if there's anything that I can say to convince you to see The Orville - four words: Dolly Parton laser fight. It's a thing that happens.” - Matt “A lot of people consider autistic people to be devoid of social characteristics, but he [Seth MacFarlane] is very, very good at socializing. He's very, very good at telling jokes. He's very good at being open and himself.” - Matt“I think when you add the hyper-connected brain and the smart and talented, people want to be around us, and then they're around us for a few minutes and they're like, ‘these people are f*****g annoying. Let's get them off the project and take full credit for their work. That's it. If you are hearing this and a light bulb is going off, just know you're normal. That's part of our culture. They take our ideas and run with them and kick us off the project. But somehow, Seth stays in there. You go, my guy.” - AngelaDid you enjoy this episode? We talk about autistic coding in The Orville, the impact of monotropic focus, and how the show reflects themes of justice, gender identity, and more. In the comments, let us know what resonated with you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:Seth's Star Trek fan Film:Related Episodes:Star Trek is AutisticTransformers is AutisticDinosaur is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that advocates for social change!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, Matt and Angela are joined by Halina Brooke, MS, LPC, to discuss autism-affirming social skills.* Halina is an LPC from Arizona whose practice is entirely focused on supporting misfits, oddballs, highly sensitive individuals, and creatives.* We discuss challenges in the clinical autism world, including the discomfort neurotypicals often feel when autistic voices with lived experience challenge their preconceived notions about autism.* We dive into the slippery slope of neurodivergence and labels, exploring how to use labels in a way that feels right for you.* Most social skills groups for autistic individuals focus on "teaching your children to be normal," but Halina's approach is different and stands out by being truly autism-affirming.* Halina's social groups and approach are centered on helping autistic individuals enjoy their environment and experiences, rather than focusing on making neurotypical people feel comfortable.* The goal of Halina's therapy and social group is to help individuals find ways to enjoy whatever context they're in, while also understanding their nervous system's signals and learning how to cope with them.* We discuss the trauma that can result from ABA therapy for survivors and how this group can offer support and healing for those individuals.* Halina's mission in her therapy practice is to challenge the status quo by creating innovative, non-ABA, neurodiversity-affirming social skills groups specifically for adults over the age of 25.* We also talk about how ChatGPT can assist us as autistics in improving our social skills by helping us assess how our words or mannerisms might be perceived by outsiders or neurotypicals.* Our hosts also dive into the concept of "neurotypical packing peanuts" – the idea of having to "pack" an accomplishment with hardships or details that downplay it, so it doesn't come across as bragging.* We discuss autism advocacy, highlighting how neurotypicals aren't advocating for themselves, but rather for the preservation of social norms, and the need to challenge an entrenched system.* Matt talks about the concept of code-switching—having to switch between masked and unmasked situations—and the impact that can have on our nervous systems as autistic individuals.* As we know, autistic masking can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and even near-death experiences. Yet, neurotypicals often focus on urging us to stop masking at all costs, without fully understanding the consequences.* We discuss post-diagnosis or discovery grief, the missteps of our parents, and the process of forgiveness.* Finally, we discuss how, as neurodiversity-affirming advocates, we can make the world safer for autistic people. This includes speaking out about the problematic nature of ABA, while also being cautious, as some ABA programs have co-opted neurodiversity-affirming language.“And that's the big thing about autism and ADHD, because the DSM doesn't allow for internal experience. It's always about how we impact the neurotypicals around us. It's all about how the doctor can observe you and how irritated the doctor is with your choice of conversation topics or how you don't make eye contact or how offputting you are to the observer.” - Matt“You know, the folks who are diagnosed [autistic] and were diagnosed as children, this is the generation that kind of came up with that huge wave of ABA, and when you are constantly told that your way of being is wrong and needs to be fixed, it can leave you with a really ingrained feeling of self-doubt. And so even if you're doing a situation ‘right', like if you have a special interest for a certain kind of book and you come to that book club and everyone else is like you in that way, if you went through ABA as a kid, you're still gonna walk in there with crippling self-doubt wondering if you're doing it right. But these might be your people.” - Halina“If you're very happy and very comfortable being unmasked and then you have to go back into an intensely masked situation, it almost makes it worse because when you're used to having to mask all the time and that's just the norm, then you become accustomed to the chains that you wear.” - Matt“You become acutely aware of the trauma that you've had instead of normalizing it and dissociating and just saying, ‘yeah, everyone gets punched in the gut on Thursdays. That's just how it happens.'” - Matt (on autistic code-switching and cognitive dissonance)Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about Autistic-affirming social skills, the challenges of masking, post-diagnosis grief, and how we can make the world safer for autistic people. In the comments, let us know what stood out to you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:Halina Brooke, MS, LPChalina@recoursecounseling.comMy Therapeutic Approach ~ Recourse CounselingBook your free consultation here.Call ~ 602.787.0600Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that commands your attention (pun intended).Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's episode, Matt and Angela explore the show Creature Commandos and discuss why sympathetic monsters can resonate with autistic individuals.* We delve into the history of the DC Cinematic Universe and examine the autistic coding in James Gunn's other projects, most notably Guardians of the Galaxy and The Suicide Squad.* Creature Commandos, the first project of the DCU, follows a black ops team of monsters and sets the stage for Suicide Squad.* James Gunn is known for his intricate world-building—an aspect that closely aligns with the importance of world-building in autistic culture.* We explore the autistic coding of characters from The Suicide Squad, beginning with GI Robot—an autistic-coded machine with a monotropic focus on one thing: killing Nazis.* Our hosts dive into the history of the eccentric and iconic Bride of Frankenstein character, exploring her autistic-coded quirks.* Each monster in the show carries a notoriously tragic backstory, and none exhibit neurotypical social skills. They are shunned by society and dehumanized—just as autistic people often are in real life.* We discuss the autistic-coded traits of the show's villains—for example, Clayface, whose directness and behavior can be interpreted (or misinterpreted) as manipulation.* Matt and Angela talk about the future of the DC Universe and how Superman, with his strong sense of justice, is inherently autistic-coded.* James Gunn's work is profoundly autistic-coded, often emphasizing themes of belonging, justice, and the complexities of social interaction. His characters—many of whom are outsiders or misfits—reflect autistic traits like strong focus on specific values, difficulty navigating social norms, and being misunderstood by society. Gunn's storytelling unites these "outsiders," celebrating their differences and showing how their unique qualities make them crucial to the narrative.“That's the thing - we are often judged. We are often blamed. We are often criticized by people who don't understand us. And therefore, when we find an appealing monster, we really, really latch onto that.” - Matt“We [autistic people] are so dehumanized that we're robbed of basic human traits. People think that we don't have empathy. People don't think that we have theory of mind. People don't think that we are capable of making eye contact. And if we do have any of those, there's lots of people who believe that we can't be autistic because they believe that we have to be subhuman in some way. So this is a big reason why we relate to monsters, because we are treated as monsters. We are treated as something less.” - MattDid you catch all the Autistic-coded traits in Creature Commandos? In the comments, tell us which characters or themes stood out to you, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with other listeners!Show Notes:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creature_Commandos_(TV_series)Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts. A.J. Locashio, Jessica Jahns and Philip will talk in detail about the focus for Today's Autistic Moment in 2025.  How are Autistics multidimensional? Autistics are Neurological. Physical. Cultural. Awareness. Avoidance through masking. Seeking. Relational. Personal. Social. Engaging.  Autistics have so many opportunities to lead in our intersectional identities to influence social change.  A.J., Jessica, and I will talk about the many ways that Autistics can cocreate environments where we can get our support needs met through collaboration and community building with other Neurodivergent people. 

An episode that keeps it 100. Here's what's in store for today's episode: * It's our 100th episode! A huge thank you to our incredible supporters for joining us on this journey and uplifting our conversations about autistic culture and advocacy.* Our hosts kick off this episode by revisiting the topics they brainstormed when the podcast first began—like Lewis Carroll, James Joyce, and Steve Jobs—and reflecting on whether they've covered them all or if there's still more autistic culture to explore!* We discuss how episodes featuring autistic-coded people and characters with esoteric, autistic-coded lives often provide more content than those about openly autistic public figures because there's more room for interpretation, deeper cultural analysis, and a richer exploration of autistic themes in storytelling.* Matt and Angela also discuss Sir Isaac Newton and how, if he had masked his autism, we might not have groundbreaking innovations like bridges, gravity, or space travel.* We discuss the problematic figure of Temple Grandin, examining how much of her controversial platform is rooted in her support for eugenics practices and her reliance on neurotypical name recognition.* In addition, we explore neurotypical bias and how neurotypicals often react defensively to speculation that a public figure might be autistic, revealing their own inherent ableism and rigid, preconceived notions of autism.* We also dive into Hans Christian Andersen—an autistic icon—and his story The Ugly Duckling, exploring its autistic coding and the deeper message that we are not "ugly ducklings" to be fixed but neurodiverse and beautiful swans.* Matt and Angela then read heartfelt testimonials from listeners who have found comfort, validation, and a sense of belonging through the podcast. These messages highlight how the discussions on autistic culture, advocacy, and representation have resonated with the community, helping listeners feel seen, understood, and empowered in their own journeys.* Thank you all—we love you, and we're so grateful that this podcast helps you feel seen! Here's to many more episodes ahead. If you've enjoyed the journey so far, please consider leaving us a positive review on Spotify and Apple Podcasts to help us keep spreading autistic joy and advocacy!“There's a lot of gloom and doom out there [about autism] because it's profitable. To say autism is this horrible, horrible condition that needs to be cured, instead of - it's a way of life. It's just how our people do things. It's totally natural. It is just us. This is our way.” - Matt“Every once in awhile, I meet somebody out in the real world who is a listener. And it always amazes me because I know that you [Angela] and Simon are here because I can see you and I'm talking to you directly, but I never really expect that other people out there hear anything that I say.” - MattDid you catch all 100 layers of autistic culture in our milestone episode? In the comments, tell us which topics resonated with you the most, and use #AutisticCulture100 and #AutisticCultureCatch to share your thoughts on social media and connect with fellow listeners!Show Notes:How to Wirte a Review: https://www.thepodcasthost.com/promotion/how-to-write-podcast-reviews/"We also want to remind you about two ways to get directly involved with the podcast.BE A GUEST/ SUGGEST A SHOW: If you'd like to be a guest, fill out our Guest Form.Help behind the scenes: Check out our Volunteer Form.Related Shows:Bad Autism DiagnosisReframing DSM DiagnosisReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode with all the right ingredients!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's episode, Matt and Angela, joined by special guest Melanie Deziel, delve into the legendary Martha Stewart and the fascinating autistic-coded traits that set her apart.* After watching the recent Martha Stewart Netflix documentary, Melanie noticed countless traits in Martha that could suggest neurodivergence.* We explore the ethics of speculating whether public figures are autistic and how reluctance to do so can stem from internalized ableism—implying that reacting negatively to the idea suggests autism is something undesirable.* Being autistic is a source of pride—it's not just who we are, but a culture with its own ways of thinking, communicating, and experiencing the world. Embracing autism means recognizing its value, celebrating our strengths, and rejecting the idea that neurodivergence is something to be "fixed."* We discuss the genetics of autism, how it is inherited, and why this gives us reason to speculate that Martha Stewart may be neurodivergent. Her father's strong need for routine and order—an autistic trait—deeply shaped the way she navigates the world.* The discussion shifts to the misogynistic media coverage of Martha Stewart and the criticism she faced for selling her cookware line at Kmart, which was dismissed as “low culture” in America. This connects to justice sensitivity, as she openly stated her belief that lower-income people still deserved access to quality cookware.* From her show to her media empire and the many now-commonplace innovations she pioneered, we discuss how Martha Stewart is a media genius—and how that level of brilliance can be deeply threatening to many people.* Other autistic hallmarks of Martha Stewart include her direct, straightforward communication style and the way she speaks with precision and a matter-of-fact tone.* What's fascinating about Martha Stewart is how she's often perceived as icy or cold by outsiders, yet those who truly know her—friends and longtime employees—describe her as warm, caring, and kind. This aligns with the autistic experience, where direct communication and a focused demeanor can be misinterpreted as aloofness, while deep loyalty and genuine care shine through in trusted relationships.* Her crafting reveals specific methods and attention to detail—like always using double-sided tape to wrap presents for that perfect, crisp finish—showcasing the kind of structured, methodical approach often associated with autism.* People often saw her as a tyrant, but there was intention behind her methods—she was using her encyclopedic knowledge to help others refine their craft and achieve excellence. Her high standards and structured approach reflect a deep passion for mastery, a trait often linked to autism.* She was constantly seeking ways to improve things and generously sharing her knowledge—much like penguin pebbling, where autistic people share information as a form of care and connection.* We discuss Martha's uncanny ability to recognize potential, which likely stems from strong pattern recognition—an ability often associated with autism that allows her to see possibilities others might overlook.* We also dive into her insider trading case, how she was used as a scapegoat, and how the media skewed the narrative against her—further cementing her reputation as a "horrible rich lady," despite the nuanced reality of the situation.* Her five-month stint in prison was an eye-opening experience, leading her to actively support the prison community by teaching skills, helping fellow inmates access resources, and advocating for their rights—showcasing her deep sense of justice and desire to uplift others.* After leaving prison, Martha Stewart seemed to fully embrace her true self—allowing herself to make mistakes, show more of her personality, and lean into the authenticity that had always been there beneath her polished image.* At this point, she formed an unexpected but beloved friendship with Snoop Dogg, marking a renaissance in her public image as people got to see the true, unmasked Martha Stewart—authentic, witty, and unapologetically herself.* Another autistic trait of Martha Stewart is her deep appreciation for sensory experiences—she has a keen interest in different fabrics, textures, and foods, often focusing on the details that make something feel just right.* Martha Stewart's entire brand and media empire are built on info-dumping—sharing her vast knowledge and passion for her special interests, from cooking to crafting to home design, in a way that's both meticulous and immersive.* She also had a passion for building communities of unlikely yet talented individuals, bringing together experts in their craft—a form of hyper-connectivity often seen in autistic people who naturally create networks based on shared interests and skills.* We discuss how autistic or presumed autistic people—like Taylor Swift—are often unfairly perceived and frequently targeted with hate in the media, largely due to misinterpretations of their behaviors and a deep-seated discomfort with neurodiversity.* We explore how the media's portrayal of neurodivergent public figures often distorts their true nature, focusing on how traits like directness and emotional expression are unfairly criticized, leading to negative perceptions and widespread bias.About Today's Guest:Melanie Deziel is a keynote speaker and award-winning branded content creator who is passionate about helping individuals, teams, and organizations unlock their creative potential and organize their creative efforts.She is the Co-Founder of The Creator Kitchen mastermind for creatives, and the author of both “The Content Fuel Framework: How to Generate Unlimited Story Ideas” and “Prove It: Exactly How Modern Marketers Earn Trust.”“You're autistic way before you get a medical diagnosis. Your parents were autistic, your grandparents were autistic, your great-grandparents were autistic. You don't need some neurotypical with a degree to come along and pronounce you autistic. “ - Matt“That's always my favorite - the diagnostic domino effect. After my diagnosis, my mom is going through the paper and she's like, ‘that's not weird, I did that. That's not weird, I did that.' And I was like, have I got news for you, mama? Welcome.” - Angela“Her whole thing, which was setting off my justice sensitivity alarms, was that people who don't have a lot of money also deserve to live well. They also have taste. They also want their homes to be beautiful. She got a lot of flack for that decision, but she saw the gap in the marketplace. She's like, ‘just because someone doesn't have a lot of money, doesn't mean they don't like nice pots and pans or want beautiful curtains or whatever else.” - Melanie“It's only the people who have sort of passing interactions with her and take one offhanded comment and they're like, ‘she's horrible, she's a b***h, she's icy, she's cold', whatever. But the people who are around her say like, no, she's deeply caring. She loves the people around her. She just has high expectations and is very straightforward in the way she speaks. She will say to you, ‘I appreciate this thing you've given me. It's poorly constructed. Let's fix it.' She's just very straightforward, and you're like, ‘I didn't mean to offend you. I thought we were all aware of this reality right in front of us.” - Melanie In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of Martha Stewart, exploring how her traits align with autistic characteristics and the media's often skewed perception of her. From her intense need for control to the challenges she faced in a world that misunderstood her, we break down the real Martha Stewart—and the misconceptions surrounding her. Join Matt, Angela, and special guest Melanie Deziel as they discuss how her unique personality and approach to life shaped her empire, and how she became a target of unfair media scrutiny. Have you noticed these traits in Martha or other public figures? Share your thoughts with us using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media!Show Notes:Netflix Martha Stewart Netflix Documentary link - please findhttps://www.melaniedeziel.com/minishttps://www.melaniedeziel.com/advocacyRelated Shows:Trivia is AutisticTaylor Swift is AutisticLessons in Chemistry is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Doug Blecher founded Autism Personal Coach in 2013 in response to the near-total lack of real-life support for Autistic adults.   In 2022, Doug officially confirmed his suspicions about his neurotype. APC is now happy to confirm they are fully Autistic-led (and have been all along)!   All of their autism life coaches are either Autistic or chosen by Autistics. We choose them based on their commitment to trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming strategies. Their Coaches deeply understand burnout, sensory needs, and the importance of special interests. They empower our clients to take the lead, determine their goals, and choose their paths.   They know that lived experience makes Autistic people the real experts on autism. They're here to help make their goals a reality! Connect to learn more: Website: https://www.autismpersonalcoach.com/ IG: @autismpersonalcoach FB: @autismpersonalcoach For additional resources and more information about Visible you can find us here: Web: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://visiblenationaltrust.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast (ABC's of Disability Planning) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/abcs-disability-planning⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Waypoints - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://waypoints.substack.com/

An episode that defies the norms.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, hosts Matt and Angela explore the intriguing and often debated world of Pathological Demand Avoidance with special guest Richard Woods.* Pathological Demand Avoidance, also known in more affirming circles as Persistent Drive for Autonomy, describes a strong need to question and resist demands, often co-occurring with autism. This trait can manifest as an intense drive for control, leading individuals to navigate the world in ways that prioritize autonomy and flexibility over compliance.* Most of what we know about PDA autism—and the stereotypes surrounding it—are heavily focused on children. In reality, PDA exists on a spectrum, and many adults also experience its traits, often in ways that go unrecognized or misunderstood.* Many neurotypicals see PDA as indistinguishable from Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), when in reality, PDA is often the underlying factor in these cases, driven by a need for autonomy rather than intentional defiance.* We explore the validity of Theory of Mind in relation to PDA and the problems with pathologizing demand avoidance.* Our hosts and special guest discuss the misconception that PDA traits fade with age—when in reality, PDA individuals learn to accommodate themselves and establish clear boundaries as they grow into adulthood.* We explore the overlap between PDA and ODD, and why Richard believes that PDA isn't a form of autism, but rather a distinct profile of neurodivergence.* Additionally, we discuss how neurotypicals often struggle to differentiate CPTSD symptoms from autism, as many have never encountered a healthy, healed autistic person.* The discussion then shifts to how the world is not designed for autistic or disabled people in general, and how this lack of accessibility and understanding can exacerbate PDA traits, making self-advocacy and autonomy even more crucial.* We talk about labels, how they affect our ability to get our needs met, and what Richard's "post-autistic identity" entails in the broader conversation around neurodivergence and self-definition.* Finally, we reflect on the importance of self-advocacy, community, and embracing neurodivergence beyond medical labels, as well as the role of monotropic focus in the autistic experience.“May your stimming activities be many, and your flow states long.” About Richard Woods:Richard Woods is the leading Demand Avoidance Phenomena (Pathological Demand Avoidance) authority (by academic work and experience) and Author.He is attributed as autistic, but has a "post-autistic identity" as he is no longer basing his identity on psychiatric categories.“I tend to view PDA as literally about the management of stress. A lot of people express these features because they are distressed and or stressed by the demands being placed upon them. And often with autistic people, it seems to be more of a cognitive style. We're to be stressed when you put us in a very chaotic, very high-demanding world.” - Richard Woods“The modern life isn't built for autistics. It's so much noise, so much sound, so much that is visual and tactile. It's not built for disabled people in general.” - Richard Woods “That's the thing [about autistic kids] - when we have a safe person, when we have that anchor person, it frees us to be more objective, or to object rather, because it's safer to object. As opposed to a total stranger, you may not feel safe saying, ‘no, I don't want to do that. But with someone you trust, you say, ‘no, there's no way I'm going in there. You can't make me do that.' That's not going to happen, because you know you're not going to be met with that judgment and the criticism that comes along with that of a stranger.” - Matt In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) autism, a lesser-known but important part of the spectrum. From the intense need for autonomy to the challenges of navigating a demand-heavy world, we explore what PDA really is—and what it isn't. Join Matt and Angela as they break down common misconceptions, discuss how PDA presents in adults, and chat with expert Richard Woods about the affirming perspective of Persistent Drive for Autonomy. Have you experienced PDA traits in yourself or others? Share your thoughts with us using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media!Show Notes:There is substantial debate over what PDA is. Presently my view PDA is not an "autism profile"/ autism subgroup/ autism subtype, or anything of the kind. For a short 800 word overview of current debates on PDAby Richard Woods, please see below:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354386742_Pathological_demand_avoidance_PDA_Its_four_schools_of_thoughthttps://tinyurl.com/4wynmydzRichard Woods ORCiD: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8292-632Xhttps://www.pdasociety.org.uk/resources/identifying-features-ofpathological-demand-avoidance-using-the-diagnostic-interview-forsocial-andcommunication-disorders/https://monotropism.org/dinah/https://dlcincluded.github.io/MQ/Pathological Demand-Avoidance" (PDA) in Frontiers in Education, please see the call for papers below for more information:http://fron.tiers.in/rt/40032Related Shows:Reframing DSM Diagnosis Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that dives deep!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Recently, SpongeBob's voice actor, Tom Kenny, confirmed that SpongeBob is explicitly an autistic character—surprising absolutely no one!* Our hosts kick off the episode by exploring the autistic life and childhood of the show's creator, Stephen Hillenburg, who developed SPINs (special interests) in marine life and Jacques Cousteau as early as age six.* During Hillenburg's time at the Orange County Marine Institute, he created the character Bob the Sponge and wrote The Intertidal Zone, though he faced challenges in getting the book published.* After that, he dove headfirst into his other SPIN—animation—working as an assistant on well-known cartoons before landing a role at a then-small channel called Nickelodeon.* While working on the 90s Nicktoon Rocko's Modern Life, Hillenburg crossed paths with voice actor Tom Kenny. The two collaborated seamlessly, and as we know, Kenny would later become the iconic voice of SpongeBob.* SpongeBob SquarePants debuted as Nickelodeon's first original Saturday morning cartoon on May 1, 1999, achieving massive success. It quickly surpassed Pokémon as the top Saturday morning cartoon. By 2002, the show boasted an audience of 61 million viewers, including 20 million adults aged 18 to 49.* In 2002, Hillenburg wanted to end production of the show, but Nickelodeon saw it as far too lucrative to stop. He left after the release of The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie in 2004 but returned to work on the show from Season 9 until his passing. SpongeBob SquarePants remains a wildly successful cartoon, still airing new episodes on Nickelodeon 25 years later.* Stephen Hillenburg was known for valuing his privacy and leading a quiet life. However, his autistic sense of justice was evident through his philanthropic efforts, particularly his work with the United Plankton Charitable Trust, which supported environmental and marine conservation initiatives.* Tragically, in 2017, Hillenburg was diagnosed with ALS, a disease that has also been linked to autism.* The character of SpongeBob is like a walking DSM-5 autism diagnosis checklist. He struggles with reading social cues, doesn't realize when he's being bothersome, and while he can be annoying at times, his genuine nature makes him endearing.* SpongeBob also exhibits many other autistic traits, such as having meltdowns, struggling to learn to drive, taking things literally, and showcasing astute problem-solving skills.* SpongeBob also has a special interest in his job as a fry cook, making him the happiest workaholic on television. His passion for flipping Krabby Patties and dedication to his work shine through in every episode, showcasing his deep focus and enthusiasm for what he loves.* We then dive into the legendary career of Tom Kenny, SpongeBob's iconic voice actor. With a prolific career in voice acting, Tom has brought characters to life in cartoons like Rocko's Modern Life, Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls, Transformers, and many more. His versatility and talent have made him one of the most beloved figures in animation.* The autistic-coded traits that Tom Kenny exhibits have had a significant influence on his portrayal of SpongeBob, a character he has explicitly stated is autistic. Kenny's unique approach to SpongeBob's voice, humor, and mannerisms brings a depth to the character that resonates with many in the autistic community.* Sami, our Content Manager (who is autistic and dyspraxic), noticed clear traits of dyspraxia and motor skills difficulties in Patrick, especially in the episode where he's training at the Krusty Krab. Patrick struggles with tasks like mopping and opening jar lids, which reflect the challenges many with dyspraxia face. What's truly heartwarming is how SpongeBob consistently helps Patrick, never giving up on him during the training—showcasing the importance of patience, support, and friendship.* Listen to the episode for a deep dive into how SpongeBob SquarePants portrays neurodivergent traits, and how characters like SpongeBob and Patrick provide meaningful representation and support in ways that resonate with many autistic and neurodivergent viewers!“When we see someone autistic like SpongeBob, we just kind of know it. We kind of don't need to talk to SpongeBob's mom. Thanks. Got it. ” - Angela“One of the joys of being autistic is that we vibe with other people. We have a sixth sense where we are very bottom-up data processors. We do a phenomenon that is referred to as matrixing, where we unconsciously grab a whole bunch of variables and throw them together to get a picture - which is why autistic people are so easily able to identify other autistic people, but neurotypical people have no idea what to make of us and we're strange mysterious cryptids from the woods. So, yeah.” - Matt In this episode, we dive deep into the world of everyone's favorite sponge, SpongeBob, and explore how his character is an unintentionally perfect portrayal of autism. From his social struggles to his unique problem-solving skills, we examine the traits that make him both endearing and relatable to the autistic community. Join Matt and Angela as they unpack how SpongeBob's world reflects the real-life experiences of many autistic individuals, and share your thoughts with us using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What aspects of SpongeBob's character do you relate to? Let us know!Show Notes:The Intertidal Zone BOOK - http://www.nickalive.net/2024/04/the-intertidal-zone-by-spongebob.htmlhttps://www.eonline.com/news/1405322/spongebob-squarepants-is-autistic-actor-tom-kenny-revealshttps://x.com/ToonHive/status/1815775221724405831https://screenrant.com/spongebob-squarepants-voice-cast-tom-kenny-retire-no-explained/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Kennyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Hillenburghttps://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2657320https://www.sbmania.net/forums/threads/is-spongebob-autistic.48958/Related Shows:Animation is Autistic Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

In this episode, we explore the Basal Ganglia. The basal ganglia are a group of subcortical nuclei that play a crucial role in orchestrating movement. They are involved in what's known as the 'Go, No-Go' decision-making process, where they help decide whether to initiate or suppress actions. This region is critical where motivation translates into action.When discussing "motivations," we must be cautious; motivations aren't consciously defined by us but by our nervous system, which operates based on learned behaviors, habits, and neural pathways. The nervous system is designed to conserve energy by automating responses, which explains why it favors habit formation over constant conscious decision-making. It responds based on what it has learned, including connections, habits, and the rules established by our internal calculators.General Description of the Basal Ganglia:Inputs: Caudate Nucleus and PutamenRelays: Globus Pallidus External (GPe) and Subthalamic NucleusOutputs: Globus Pallidus Internal (GPi) and Substantia Nigra Pars Reticulata (SNr)Modulator: Substantia Nigra Pars Compacta (SNc)00:00 - Defining the Autistic Phenotypes.00:17 - Exploration of basal ganglia, focusing on the dorsal striatum.00:40 - Explanation of connecting Autistic Phenotypes with behaviors and implications through biology.01:00 - Detailed description of the basal ganglia's role in subcortical functions.01:50 - Discussion on the relationship between eye and brain development.02:18 - Explanation of basal ganglia's role in motivation and movement convergence.03:02 - Insight into how the nervous system conserves energy and responds to known patterns.03:52 - Explanation of why change is hard due to basal ganglia functions.04:37 - paper on excitation-inhibition phenomena in autism.05:07 - Genetic implications in autism: SHANK3, Neuroexcin, Neuroligin,06:45 - Discussion on the enlargement of the dorsal striatum in autism.08:07 - Identification of the caudate nucleus and putamen as inputs to the basal ganglia.09:40 - Role of the putamen in motor skill acquisition and fine-tuning movements.11:59 - Connection between the putamen and Autism-related motor behaviors like stimming.13:30 - Discussion on Autistics preferring their inner world.16:04 - Importance of the substantia nigra and dopamine in human function.18:26 - Dopamine receptors and their roles in Autism.20:03 - Subdivisions of the substantia nigra and their functions.21:01 - Description of the globus pallidus and its role in basal ganglia circuits.22:29 - Feedback loops involving the globus pallidus and subthalamic nucleus.23:40 - Implications of delayed or inefficient signal loops in movement control.24:57 - Role of the thalamus in processing sensations.26:31 - Subthalamic nucleus as a major relay center for motor control.28:47 - Linking Autism criteria with basal ganglia function.30:20 - Coverage of all four criteria B symptoms related to Autism.32:14 - Morphology of neural connections in Autism.32:51 - Reviews and ratings.X: https://x.com/rps47586Hopp: https://www.hopp.bio/fromthespectrumYT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGxEzLKXkjppo3nqmpXpzuATikTok: (I don't love it) https://www.tiktok.com/@fromthespectrumpodcastemail: info.fromthespectrum@gmail.com

An episode that schools you!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * Today, our hosts tackle a complex subject: ableism and its manifestation within the world of academia.* Our special guest, Kat Flora, joins our hosts to share her firsthand experiences with ableism in academia and how it shaped her journey.* Matt and Kat delve into their experiences of navigating difficult interactions with neurotypicals in academia, as well as managing the challenges of burnout.* The conversation transitions to addiction and alcoholism, exploring how autistic individuals may be more predisposed to these challenges.* This episode addresses a critical issue: the importance of autistic individuals being present in these spaces to drive change from within, while also emphasizing the need for self-care to avoid burnout.* Autistic individuals in academia often encounter triggering challenges, such as being required to study behaviorism, which is inherently harmful to autistic people, and feeling pressured to agree with neurotypical misconceptions about autism just to secure a passing grade.* Matt, Angela, and Kat discuss the dehumanizing experience of being autistic in a classroom where the information taught about autism often misrepresents or contradicts their lived experiences.* Our hosts explore strategies for overcoming academic gatekeepers and navigating barriers to create meaningful change within academia.* We discuss the current state of disability services at universities, highlighting the gaps and areas that need improvement to better support autistic and disabled students in their academic journeys.“In order to become a person who diagnoses autism, if you are autistic, you have to take a whole bunch of classes where you learn a whole bunch of things that are not true about yourself by people who know a lot less and not kill them or end up in jail.” - Angela“So this is the thing. Number one, people who come into academia, people who want to do this job are taught wrong. Number two, if you are an autistic person who is doing this, you either have to eat a lot of s**t and say yes, I am a malformed human, or - you argue with people, and people don't like to be argued with.” - Matt“In order to change a system, you have to be conforming enough for the gatekeepers to look you over and let you in. And then you can f**k s**t up.” - MattIn this episode, we dive into the pervasive issue of ableism in academia. From the challenges of navigating inaccurate teachings about autism to the dehumanizing impact of neurotypical misconceptions, we discuss the struggles autistic individuals face in these spaces. We also explore the importance of self-care, avoiding burnout, and how autistic people can create change from within academic institutions. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments, and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!Show Notes:https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.727542/full https://a.co/d/gfur0Rn - The Autistic Postgraduate Woman: Navigating the Neurotypical University Paperback – Sophie Pillipshttps://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Rite_of_Ascension Kat Flora on Instagram (www.Instagram.com/kat__flora)Related Shows:Protecting Kentucky KidsProductivity is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that rolls the dice on a favorite autistic pastime!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In this episode, Matt and Angela dive into the world of board games—a beloved pastime within the autistic community.* Did you know that, according to research, only 1% of neurotypicals enjoy board games, compared to 7% of autistic individuals? This fascinating statistic highlights how board games resonate as a unique and cherished hobby within the autistic community.* Autistic individuals often gravitate toward board games because of their clear structure, logical rules, and engaging systems.* Board games are often seen as a form of "social lubricant," providing a structured way to interact and connect with others in a comfortable and low-pressure environment.* Moreover, board games are often recommended for fostering autism-affirming social skills, providing a structured and enjoyable way to practice communication, collaboration, and turn-taking.* Our hosts explore the different types of board games—ranging from logic-based games like Catan and bottom-up processing-heavy games like Munchkin, to Star Wars-related and adjacent games, and beyond.* Games help autistic individuals with the concept of turn-taking by providing clear structure. In most board games, it is easy to see when your turn begins and ends, what actions you can take, and the order in which you can do them.* These clearly defined objectives, roles, and turns help provide stability to our brains, creating a predictable environment that can reduce anxiety and improve focus.* We discuss the close alignment between SPINs (Special Interests) and board games, exploring how both help us achieve monotropic focus, leading to improved emotional regulation.* In addition, we also discuss the emotional aspects of board games, focusing on how they help teach fairness and honesty through structured interactions and clear rules.* Games provide autistic brains with the pattern recognition we crave, offering a healthy outlet that helps prevent doomscrolling or catastrophizing, and instead fosters positive focus and engagement.* Board games can bring out the best in us autistic folks, serving as a way to connect through our SPINs and transform our tendency to catastrophize into a positive, focused experience.* In addition, board games are sensory fun and stimtastic, offering a tactile and engaging experience that can be both soothing and stimulating for autistic individuals.* Board games offer a structured, sensory-rich experience that fosters social skills, emotional regulation, and focus, while providing a healthy outlet for pattern recognition and creativity, all while allowing autistic individuals to connect with their SPINs and engage in stimulating, enjoyable play.“They [board games] will be at the game night and there's reduced social pressure. There's a shared focus. There's less anxiety because especially if you know the game, the goal is to play the game and then if you meet people, awesome.” - Angela“So if you want to meet new people [through board games], it's so much better to meet them when you are emotionally regulated and you know what the rules are. Not to say you won't have a meltdown because meat bodies and phone calls and text messages and who knows, but you've got a better chance of meeting someone as your best self.” - Angela“The intricacy of the names of the moves and the artistry of chess, that is a purely autistic creation.” - AngelaIn this episode, we delve into the unique role board games play within autistic culture. From their structured rules and logical systems to their ability to foster social connection in a comfortable way, we discuss why board games hold a special place in the community. Thanks for tuning in! Share your favorite board game moments in the comments and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!Show Notes:Full presentation: Autism and board games, presentation by ...YouTube · Game in Lab - supporting game research4 Jun 2024Board Gaming on the Spectrum - Liam Cross, Edge Hill ...YouTube · Game in Lab - supporting game research27 Jan 2021https://autism.org/how-games-can-help-teach-social-skills/https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/creating-connection/202012/how-games-can-help-children-the-autism-spectrumhttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38967700/Baby Fish Mouth - Pictionary scene from 'When Harry Met Sally'vixsta11186.7K+ views · 13 years ago1986 MB "The Real Ghostbusters" 3D Board Game Review.YouTube · ELKFILMZ25 Apr 2019Related Shows:Chess is AutisticCareers are AutisticPokemon is AutisticParks and Rec is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that schools you. Hello, I am a listener of your podcast and an undiagnosed autistic. My 12 year old daughter is a diagnosed autistic who has had some traumatic experiences in the educational system since they use the medical model of autism. She is very likely twice exceptional (our school has no gifted program to offer her), but she thinks that her brain is broken because so many things are hard. She probably also has social anxiety. I am writing to ask if you and Angela would consider doing a short podcast episode aimed at teens and tweens about the wonderful ways their brains work, what autistic culture is, why it is so hard to fit into mainstream culture/school, how to make it a little better now, and how it can become SO much better later, especially once you find friends who you click with. She feels pretty hopeless at the moment, and does not have any friends to rely on yet. Thank you for reading.- Autistic Culture ListenerHere's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's episode, Matt and Angela explore a fan-suggested topic: autism culture for teens and tweens. They discuss ways to support an autistic teen who might be facing challenges at school and struggling to fit in.* The education system can feel like a nightmare for autistic youth, often prioritizing conformity and uniformity over individuality.* Our hosts discuss the challenges of transitioning between subjects in school while also navigating the complexities of an unspoken social hierarchy.* Neurotypicals often view autism as a one-dimensional disability, focusing solely on the challenges while overlooking the strengths and positive aspects that come with it. They tend to ignore the creativity, unique perspectives, and valuable contributions autistic individuals bring to the table.* Neurotypicals often follow the lead of a dominant figure, so if middle school girls crown Julie from second period as the queen bee, she effectively dictates who's cool or uncool, what to wear, and the entire social hierarchy—creating a challenging environment for autistic individuals to navigate.* Young autistic children often view adults as equals and believe respect means treating everyone equally. However, someone like Julie expects to be treated as a leader or boss, not an equal—creating conflicts within the neurotypical social hierarchy.* Autistic young boys are often given more freedom to be eccentric, while autistic girls are expected to blend in and keep the peace, conforming to societal expectations.* As a child, you have less control over your environment—things like your school schedule or what's packed in your lunch are often out of your hands. This lack of control can easily lead to dysregulation.* We discuss masking in middle and high school, and how approaching it like a Jane Goodall-esque cultural research experiment—observing neurotypicals as if they were a different species—can be a helpful strategy.* We talk about finding ways to accommodate your body while at school, even if it doesn't look or function the same as everyone else's.* To all the neurodivergent and autistic kids out there: You've got to push through this, because adulthood gets better. Find the weirdos, your people, in school—because they're out there, and they'll make all the difference.* Self-discovery is crucial as a young person, as it lays the foundation for living as a healthy, authentic autistic adult.* We don't change the world by being average—we change it by being ourselves. We owe it to the people who challenged the system, the weirdos of the world, to do the same.“This is why neurotypicals can't understand autism - because they say, ‘well, I met an autistic person once and you don't look like them.' No, because every autistic person is wired differently. The commonality is just that we have lightning brains that are hyper-connected. And this is the reason why there's a very, very high overlap between autism and giftedness because of the hyper-connected brain.” - Angela“If you're a kid who spends your lunch period hanging out in the library talking with the school librarian, you're a bottom-up processor. If you hang out talking to the janitor, you're a bottom-up processor. If you go to the teacher and say, ‘Hello, I brought my stack of Pokemon cards because you mentioned that you were in to Pokemon cards in the 90's, you're a bottom-up processor.” - Matt “That's the difference between masking to be a good girl and fit in and this is how you're going to act by practicing this, it's going to come naturally to you. No, it's not. But if you mask to get through the class and you're doing it from that Jane Goodall perspective of like, this is a research project, you can preserve a little bit of your sanity.” - Angela “I don't understand the concept of high school reunions because the people that I want to see, I stayed in contact with the entire time. I'm not going back to say, ‘yes, I'm 45 and I knew you people when I was 17 and 18. I've lived literally an entire life since then. It's like going back to the 1800's and being reincarnated and saying, ‘yes, the butter churning sure was an excellent time, was it not?'” - Matt“You're going to attract the boring people. You're going to be put in situations that compromise your integrity. You're going to be put in situations that make you compromise your morals. The more you compromise yourself, the more dangerous the world becomes. You need to find the people who will support and love the real you. And if you have to do this under the radar, then by all means do it. But be aware that you do have the cape. You must wear it underneath the costume.” - Matt“Just because they're in the majority, doesn't mean that they shape the world. You are in a better position to make the world a better place just by having existed in it. You are going to be memorable. The average people are not going to be memorable.” - MattIn this episode, we dive into the challenges and nuances of autism culture for teens and tweens. From navigating school transitions and unspoken social hierarchies to finding ways to fit in while staying true to themselves, we discuss how to support autistic teens through these pivotal years. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!Show Notes:Galaxy High - Ep 1 Welcome to Galaxy High - 1986 CartoonYouTube · DRamos520 Mixed Music & Video24 Mar 2023The Muppets (2011 film)Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › The_Muppets_(2011_...Related Shows:Apple is AutisticGeorge Lucas is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that really pulls at the threads!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's episode, we're joined by special guest Hunter Hammersen, a self-proclaimed weirdo who traded grad school for the cozy world of knitting patterns!* Hunter realized, in true autistic style, that following others' instructions wasn't for her. So, she began creating her own designs and writing patterns—a perfect fit for the world of knitting!* Our special guest kicks things off by sharing how knitting beautifully combines a stim, a special interest, and a sensory experience—making it a truly delightful and engaging activity!* Knitting offers a socially acceptable way to stim while also serving as a shared interest that can help you connect with fellow autistic knitting enthusiasts.* The beauty of knitting lies in its wonderfully literal nature—turning yarn and two sticks into something tangible, like a sweater—while seamlessly engaging autistic bottom-up processing.* We dive into yarn stashes and explore how it's totally possible to form an emotional attachment to your yarn—each skein holding its own special meaning!* As a natural-born, bottom-up processor, you're able to notice the details that others might miss—like distinguishing a soft, high-quality yarn from a scratchy one you might find at Joann Fabrics.* We discuss how knitting can serve as a powerful form of regulation, helping to soothe and center the mind while providing a sense of control and calm.* Our hosts and Hunter dive into the diverse types and textures of yarn, sharing tips on how to choose the perfect one to suit your sensory needs.* We also explore the connection between knitting and social justice, discussing how politics are deeply intertwined (no pun intended) within the craft.* Finally, we highlight the therapeutic benefits of knitting, from its calming effects and sensory satisfaction to its role in fostering community and driving social change.About Hunter HammersenHunter Hammersen is a self-described weirdo who dropped out of grad school (ABD in the history of science and medicine) to run off and write knitting patterns. “Because somehow when I was in school I thought 'I should take up knitting, that seems soothing,' then realized I could not stand following other people's instructions and so started making up things of my own, and then started writing my own patterns when folks liked what I made. Then I turned it into a business. Because I realized I could run that business at home in my pajamas and never ever ever have to teach an 8:30am history class to a room full of undergrads who do not want to be there.”In the fifteen years since she started doing this, she has written and published a dozen books, wrote hundreds and hundreds of patterns, and built up an audience of knitters. These days they hang out on Patreon and she teaches them about whatever new thing catches her interest. Knitting patterns yes, but lately she's been branching out into other things too.“I am the flavor of autistic where I have a lot of sensory issues. If my clothes are wrong, I want you to die. If I have to touch the wrong texture, the world will end. And knitting is wonderful because whatever your version of a good texture is, you can put it on your hands. And then you get to wiggle your hands around in these lovely little repetitive movements. And you can do it in public with relatively little social difficulty. ” - Hunter Hammersen“I like these levels better than the ones in the DSM. Level one is just knitting 10 to 12 hours a week. Level two, making your own yarn. Level three, raising sheep. These are levels that I can live with.” - Angela“Knitting is a really nice little bridge to get a tiny bit more in your body, because it's this thing that you're doing with your hands and you get to touch it and you get to sit there and pet it and it's this soft, fuzzy, wonderful thing. And it helps if I am feeling particularly scattered or particularly outraged.” - Hunter HammersenIn this episode, we delve into the unique ways knitting can benefit autistic people, exploring how it supports sensory needs, executive functioning, and self-expression. We discuss autism-friendly approaches to organizing your knitting projects, the challenges of starting and completing patterns, and how creating personalized knitting systems can foster stability and joy. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What resonated with you about this discussion? Let us know!Show Notes:Website: https://tinynonsense.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HunterHammersenPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/tinynonsenseRelated Shows:Questlove is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that sorts it all out.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * First, our hosts talk about executive functioning, how its inherent lack can negatively impact autistic individuals, and why implementing personalized organizational systems is essential to keeping your executive function manageable.* Autism is a dynamic disability influenced by many variables—our perception of things, how regulated we are, how much we have on our plate, and more. The more chaos we face, the less executive functioning we tend to have.* We discuss the autistic hell that is moving and how it can take up to a month of processing time to fully regain executive functioning afterward.* It's crucial to have your own organized space to avoid emotional dysregulation. When things feel chaotic, it becomes harder to manage emotions and function effectively, but a structured environment provides the stability needed to stay grounded.* From scissor organizers to the perfect Command hook, discovering the right organizational tools is truly satisfying—but we first need to know they exist.* We talk about the organizational and autistic heaven that is IKEA — despite the occasional stress of assembling their furniture.* Our hosts discuss the lack of autophagy in autistic people and how it makes the use of behaviorism as the top treatment ironic, as it doesn't benefit us in any meaningful way.* Matt and Angela discuss autism-specific ways of organizing items (by genre, by color, by whether your mug is a Star Wars mug or a Lego mug, et cetera), and how general neurotypical organizational methods don't always benefit or serve us.* Anything that makes your life easier is essential to healthy autistic living—and crucial for preserving our spoons.* When we lose or misplace things as autistic people, our brains can become dysregulated and shift into survival mode—making organizational systems essential for us to maintain stability.* Matt and Angela also discuss solutions for long-term storage and the discomfort caused by shows like Storage Wars, which can create a sense of trauma around putting things into storage—making it feel like we're abandoning our possessions.* If you can optimize your organizational systems now, it will save you stress, preserve your spoons, and protect your health and energy. It's an important investment in yourself.“Autism is a dynamic disability, and it is based on all the stuff that happens - our dysregulation, our neurological perception of things, & how much stuff we're going through at any given time. So the more chaos we have to do, the more variables we have to account for, the less executive functioning we're going to have.” - Matt [paraphrased from original quote by Neurodiversely Unbroken]“Organization, when you have it, is being in tune with the universe. With bottom-up processing, I picture the entire universe as being like clockwork, right? One variable impacts another variable impacts another variable. It's the whole butterfly effect, right?” - Matt“We are not a people known for our tolerance for ambiguity. We do not like the limbo. The limbo drains us because again, we're constantly calculating the variables and trying to figure stuff out and trying to solve the problem in our brain, but it doesn't reflect our environment. No matter how much we think about it, we actually have to get the energy to do it.” - Matt“When I stress out and I can't find something, I lose hours and hours. I struggle with time blindness. I miss appointments all the time, things I'm very excited about. And then all of a sudden I'll look at the clock and two hours have gone by and I missed something that I was supposed to be doing. That happens when I lose things, when I can't find things, when I'm dysregulated.” - Angela“If you optimize every single room and make your life better, you will get spoons back. You will have fewer arguments with partners. You will have the energy to go out with a friend. You will have fewer stomach aches. There are ways that you can make your life better that are not that expensive. And that investment will pay back so many times.” - AngelaIn this episode, we discuss the importance of organization for autistic people, exploring autism-specific organizational strategies, the challenges of executive functioning, and how personalized systems can make a huge difference in maintaining stability. Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with other listeners on social media. What resonated with you from this discussion? Let us know!Related Shows:Sunglasses Are AutisticMoving is An Autistic HellReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An Episode That Unwraps the Dark, Autistic Charm of KrampusHere's what's in store for today's episode: * Our hosts, Matt and Angela, kick off this episode by looking back on the tumultuous year of 2024—highlighting challenges like health emergencies, unexpected relocations, and the transitions that accompanied them.* Next, we delve into the origins of Krampus—the shadowy counterpart to Santa Claus—who intriguingly exhibits some distinctly autistic traits.* Krampus can be seen as something of an autistic icon, as he shares a common dislike for the chaos of the holidays—such as loud noises, disruptions to routines, surprises, and sudden changes in plans—much like many autistic individuals.* Matt and Angela take a moment to explore autistic-coded (and explicitly autistic) Halloween media, such as Dead Like Me and Trick 'r Treat, which serves as a perfect segue into their discussion about Krampus.* Michael Dougherty's 2015 film Krampus centers around a boy from a dysfunctional family who, in a moment of frustration, wishes to be rid of them. Krampus hears his wish and descends upon the family, unleashing havoc and terror to teach them a dark and twisted lesson about the importance of holiday spirit and unity.* We touch on other autistic holiday icons, like the Grinch, who struggles with social interactions and sensory overload, and Charlie Brown, an autistic character navigating the holidays, written by an autistic man.* We discuss Christmas movies that aren't technically Christmas movies but incorporate Christmas elements and themes—like Die Hard, Home Alone, and Gremlins. We also dive into the iconic Christmas film Violent Night, starring David Harbour, exploring its unique take on holiday storytelling and its blend of action, humor, and festive spirit.* Our hosts delve into Christmas's origins as the Feast of Saturnalia in ancient Roman times and explore how ghost stories have long been a cherished part of early Christmas traditions.* Matt and Angela dive into a discussion about Charles Dickens, why he sucks, and why The Muppet Christmas Carol stands out as the superior adaptation of the classic holiday tale.* Winter and Christmas are, both metaphorically and literally, the darkest season. To counter this, we bring in light—stringing up festive lights, visiting Christmas displays, and celebrating brightness in the midst of the darkness. However, the dark side of Christmas absolutely deserves to be seen and acknowledged, as it provides essential balance and depth to the season's narrative.* Finding moments of happiness during this season can be both challenging and meaningful. There's value in embracing the season's darker aspects: revisiting ghostly tales, enjoying eerie holiday films, and acknowledging the shadows that make the light shine brighter.“Look, some years you need to be able to say, ‘Well, I might be home alone and depressed this Christmas, but at least I'm not being dragged off, beaten with birch sticks, and taken to hell. Even though it might feel that way sometimes.” - Angela“Krampus tells you all kinds of stuff. You just have to have the spirit of Krampus within you.” - Matt“That's the thing, you know - Christmas happens during the Winter Solstice, during the longest, darkest nights of the year. When all hope seems lost, the crops are dead, and the world is incredibly cold and unforgiving. And, if you go outside, you might die. You might legit die.” - Matt“[Fighting the darker side]… that's a big thing for us autistics because a lot of us face these struggles - especially when it's promoted as, you know, everybody's having a great time, everybody is happy. No, no, we are fighting our way through the darkness. We are fighting our way through the winter.” - Matt In this episode, we explore navigating the holiday season as an autistic person, touching on sensory-friendly strategies, embracing the darker side of Christmas traditions, and celebrating iconic autistic-coded holiday characters like Krampus and the Grinch. Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with other listeners on social media. What resonated with you from this discussion? Let us know!Show notes:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus_(film)https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KrampusTrick R Treat ​​- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trick_%27r_TreatRelated Shows:Christmas is Autistic Holiday Expectations and NeurodivergenceFairy Tales are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that reshapes holiday traditions.Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In today's episode, we explore how to have a joyful neurodivergent Christmas by prioritizing your needs and letting go of expectations.* We discuss how autistics rely on routines, and how the holidays can disrupt them, leading to dysregulation and chaos.* Matt and Angela dive into how Hallmark movies portray the stereotypical, picture-perfect version of Christmas—a version that often feels far removed from reality, especially for autistics. They explore how these idealized depictions can create unrealistic expectations and fail to consider the unique ways neurodivergent individuals experience the holiday season.* We talk about how, since autism is genetic, many people in the household during the holidays might also be silently navigating sensory overload while juggling holiday pressures.* Our hosts discuss the challenges of having family members who are autistic but don't identify as such or seek a diagnosis, and how this lack of acknowledgment can increase masking for the openly autistic individuals around them.* Having meltdowns around Christmas doesn't have to feel overwhelming or unmanageable—as long as you have the right tools in place, like sensory supports or safe people to help you navigate the moment.* We discuss the importance of advocating for accommodations and using the acceptance of those accommodations—such as turning off the TV, avoiding twinkle lights, or lowering noise levels for sensory reasons—as a baseline for deciding whether or not to attend holiday gatherings.* We also discuss how unusual and counterintuitive it is for autistics that physical touch, like hugging and kissing relatives, is so heavily emphasized during the holidays. We also dive into how odd—and frankly creepy—it is that kids are expected to sit on a mall Santa's lap and share their secrets.* Having a comfort kit is essential for an autistic person during the holidays—packed with stim toys, eye masks, comfort blankets, and other items to support sensory regulation.* We talk about Matt's Christmas Dragon tradition, which he created with his son, and the importance of crafting personalized family traditions that cater to your sensory and emotional regulation needs.* Matt and Angela discuss the importance of setting and enforcing boundaries at holiday events, including creating a plan to leave early if overstimulation occurs or if the situation calls for it.* We discuss the autistic tendency to be thoughtful gift-givers, as we often pay close attention to and deeply consider people's interests when selecting presents.* Holidays can be especially challenging for autistic people because we're not always able to access our safe foods. We discuss autistic food rules around the holidays, emphasizing that you don't have to eat the family meal if it's unbearable for you. Sometimes, a McNugget platter might be the best food tradition to introduce in an autistic household.* Self-care strategies during the holidays are vital for autistic people. We share some strategies that might work for you, including creating a list of holiday comfort shows and movies, using Christmas-themed comfort blankets and candles, and doing the planning work to ensure your holiday aligns with your needs and preferences.“So, if you're listening to this on the day it's released, you have somehow survived Thanksgiving if you celebrate. And now there is Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, the day after Christmas, Boxing Day. There's still all of the New Year's expectations. And then there's this entire week or two off school, which, if you're a parent, you have your children at home and still have to figure out how to work. So everything is jumbled and out of order. If you're somebody who has created a life and a schedule to minimize sensory interruptions and other jilted expectations, the holidays are here to f**k with that.” - Angela “We are told what Christmas is, but yet there are an infinite number of variables that impact upon that. Everything from credit card debt to the thing that you're supposed to buy, you can't find.” - Matt“Create a safety plan, do self-care because honestly, the gauntlet between Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, and Valentine's Day is just this long stretch of psychological horror.” - MattIn today's episode, we dive into navigating the holiday season as an autistic person, focusing on how to manage sensory overload, advocate for accommodations, and create a comfortable environment. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What tips or insights from the episode will help you this holiday season?Resources:Jade Farrington's Community Guide to a Happy Neurodivergent Christmashttps://subscribepage.io/tO5RvlReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

In this brief episode, we discuss keeping up in the classroom during teacher lecture. Specifically, we discuss the delays in sensory processing, taking notes, visual thinking, and some challenges with keeping up. This is a pressing issue for Autistics, and in my opinion, education needs to do better for the Autistic phenotype. Autism and Education https://youtu.be/zQpNtvS-tWwX: https://x.com/rps47586Hopp: https://www.hopp.bio/fromthespectrumemail: info.fromthespectrum@gmail.com

An episode that breaks the mold!Here's what's to come in this episode: * We kick off this episode by discussing Courtney Love and her candid acknowledgment of her autism in a 1994 Rolling Stone interview. While she's open about her experiences, some of her language is problematic—for instance, referring to non-speaking autism as "introverted."* However, we delve into how many of the judgments and perceptions surrounding Courtney Love may be rooted in ableism, influenced by her autism diagnosis.* We explore the inherent connection between musical subcultures and autism, highlighting how these spaces can become a refuge for those who feel ostracized elsewhere.* Next, we dive into the powerful intersection between punk ethos and neurodivergence, unpacking how these two worlds resonate deeply with shared values and traits. Punk celebrates nonconformity, rejecting the rigid societal expectations and hierarchies that often marginalize neurodivergent individuals. It embraces the idea that standing up for what you believe in—no matter how unconventional—is a strength, not a flaw.* This ethos aligns with the autistic experience of navigating a world that frequently misunderstands or undervalues difference. Punk fosters a sense of belonging by creating a community for misfits—a safe haven for those who've been excluded or overlooked in more traditional spaces. In this way, punk and neurodivergence together challenge norms, celebrate authenticity, and amplify the voices of those too often silenced.* Realizing you are neurodivergent doesn't erase your punk identity—it deepens it. Subculture isn't just about aligning with a particular music scene or fashion; it's a gateway to discovering and embracing your most authentic self.* We also discuss how loud music, often a hallmark of punk, can be soothing and sensory-stimulating for many of us on the autism spectrum.* Punk and punk-era band names are often defined by connotations of violence, aggression, sex, fetishism, turmoil, and eruption, with many even referencing disability. This rebellious language reflects the feelings of being "othered"—a sensation that resonates deeply with the autistic experience. Just as punk challenges societal norms and embraces marginalization, the association with disability within punk culture highlights how both the neurodivergent community and the subculture at large confront rejection, discrimination, and the struggle to be understood.* Punk intertwines with the refusal to be seen through the neurotypical lens, rejecting the pressure to conform to societal expectations. It's about resisting the influence of outside forces and voices that seek to define who you are, instead embracing self-expression and authenticity on your own terms.* We also discuss how body modifications, like tattoos and piercings, play into this idea of reclaiming autonomy and defying societal norms. For many in the punk and neurodivergent communities, these mods serve as a powerful way to express individuality, resist outside judgment, and celebrate personal identity on their own terms.* We discuss how autism is often framed through neurotypical-centric lenses, such as infantilization, pity, and the "superhero" trope, which limit our agency and self-expression. Punk, however, challenges these narratives by reclaiming our power and refusing to let society define or diminish us.* Punk embraces an anti-aesthetic that celebrates imperfections, rejecting the need for polished or conventional beauty standards. This ties directly to autism, as both challenge societal expectations of "perfection" and instead embrace authenticity, quirks, and individuality.* The culture of punk is, at its core, authenticity without apology—and that's exactly what autistic people desire: spaces and cultures where they can be their true selves without the need to mask or conform.“When I talk about being introverted, I was diagnosed autistic. At an early age, I would not speak. Then I simply bloomed. My first visit to a psychiatrist was when I was like three. Observational therapy, TM for Tots, you name it, I've been there.” - Courtney Love (the one and only!!)“You [an autistic person] can't just go into a space and say, ‘yes, I am perfectly at home here.'” No, you have to change it to fit your needs. And that's fairly punk, because punk doesn't show up and say, ‘yes, this is acceptable.' No, we are going to rage against the machine.” - Matt“Yes, we want you, you misfit toys, to fit in perfectly here. You are a part of our merry band of autistics and you are perfect just the way you are.” - Angela“Yes, punk is saying we are different and that's enough, like we are enough and this f*****g sucks at the same time. It's not saying, like, ‘fix me', necessarily. It's saying, ‘this is my identity.'” - Angela Did you notice the connection between punk, subculture, and the autistic experience? In today's episode, we explore how punk's defiance and authenticity reflect the autistic spirit. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which parts of the punk ethos resonated most with you?Resources:Rolling Stone article where Courtney comes out - https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/courtney-love-life-without-kurt-81520/Interview with Courtney where she talks about her diagnosis Autisticasfxxk - Raise your middle finger to neuronormativity!

An episode that redefines the perspective.Here's what's to come in this episode: * In this episode, our hosts address audience requests to explore the often problematic and ambiguous terminology of the DSM-5.* The DSM-5, often considered the Bible of psychology, tends to pathologize autism and reflect only a neurotypical perspective.* We discuss the issues with IQ tests, highlighting their ableist nature and why they shouldn't determine autism diagnoses. We also explore how the DSM's description of autism overlooks critical aspects, such as proprioceptive difficulties and overlapping medical conditions like POTS, endometriosis, PMDD, and PCOS, as well as how autism is largely hereditary.* Additionally, we argue that autistic individuals don't have social deficits but instead exhibit social differences.* The DSM suggests that autistic people "lack imagination," when in reality, we have a rich internal world—we just express it differently.* Furthermore, the DSM pathologizes autistic people for speaking passionately and extensively about our special interests—activities and topics that bring us immense joy and fulfillment. Rather than being seen as a positive expression of enthusiasm and deep knowledge, this is unfairly framed as a deficit or abnormal behavior.* In this episode, we tackle the issue of psychologists and mental health professionals dismissing autistic women's accounts of their own symptoms.* We also explore the various forms of stimming and routines, delving into why these practices provide comfort and security for autistic individuals.* Routines and expectations offer comfort to overwhelmed autistic individuals, as our brains process 42% more information at rest compared to neurotypical brains.* Finally, we discuss SPINs (Special Interests), which ones are considered socially "appropriate," and the unique sense of joy and fulfillment they bring—experiences that neurotypicals often cannot fully understand or access.* Lastly, we reflect on how the DSM portrays autism primarily through the lens of its impact on neurotypicals, rather than focusing on the internal experiences of autistic individuals. This perspective neglects the depth of autistic joy, fulfillment, and individuality, especially as seen through SPINs and other unique aspects of autistic life.“If you have depression, yeah, you probably don't want that depression. You probably want the depression to go away. But with autism, it's a neurotype. There are a lot of ableists and a lot of people who have internalized ableism who say, ‘I'm different and I don't wanna be different. I wanna be like everybody else - but that's a whole self-esteem problem.” - Matt“The more stressed you are, the more neurotypicals around you are going to ask, ‘Hey, are you autistic or something?' Yes, yes I am, thanks for asking.” - MattDid you notice how today's episode challenges and reframes the DSM criteria for autism? We dive deep into this transformative discussion about shifting perspectives! Thanks for tuning in—share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which insights or moments resonated with you the most?Resources:https://www.mattlowrylpp.com/blog/reframing-dsm-autism-criteriahttps://www.mattlowrylpp.com/meme-galleryRelated Episodes:Bad Autism DiagnosisReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that's the best at being The Worst!Here's what's in store for today's episode: * In this episode, Matt and Angela delve into one of Angela's comfort shows, the FX series You're the Worst, exploring the aspects that make it inherently autistic.* You're the Worst, as Matt describes it, is about a group of individuals navigating life and doing the best they can despite enduring significant trauma (all while exuding strong autistic vibes).* Matt and Angela dive deep into character analyses of the show, uncovering autism-coded traits such as the prevalence of PTSD, sleep apnea, aversion to gender stereotypes, and other neurodivergent characteristics.* Matt discusses the characters of Becca and Vernon, highlighting how their exaggeratedly stereotypical neurotypical behavior borders on cartoonish.* In contrast, we dive into Jimmy's character with an in-depth analysis. He relies on scripting, struggles with relationships, exhibits behaviors shaped by trauma, and is deeply autistic-coded.* Our hosts explore the dichotomy of autistic experiences, discussing how the feeling of being misunderstood is a common thread for autistic individuals, much like what is portrayed through Jimmy's character.* We explore Jimmy's relationship with Gretchen on the show, discussing how they navigate their respective traumas to build a relationship that works uniquely for them.* Because sometimes being the worst is exactly what makes us the best—autistic vibes and all!“We put up these giant barriers when we're traumatized. We become very avoidant of forming bonds with people. We actively push people away because we might get to have them and lose them.” - Matt (on navigating autistic interpersonal relationships)“We live in a world where non-traumatized autistics are not common. Just because we try desperately every day to fit into a world that is not made for us, where we try to adapt, where we burn out, where we push ourselves past our natural limits in order to do what is expected of us because otherwise, we have self-esteem issues, and we blame ourselves for not being good enough.” - MattDid you catch all the nuanced dynamics in You're the Worst? In today's episode, we dive deep into its autistic-coded brilliance! Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fans on social media. Which characters or moments resonated with you the most?Resources:Related Episodes:Community Is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Unraveling the origins—this episode speaks volumes!Here's what's to come in today's episode: * In this episode, our hosts delve into the Takiwātanga meme—a popular social media trend often showcasing stunning Polynesian women and claiming that Takiwātanga is the Māori word for autism, meaning "in their own time and space."* Our hosts trace the origins of this meme, revealing that while the term's creator is neurotypical, his intentions were genuinely positive. Kari O'Pai, a Māori linguist, developed the term Takiwātanga as part of a project aimed at depathologizing mental health terminology in the Māori language.* O'Pai's glossary was designed to curate terms for mental health, disability, and addiction that avoid pathologization, with the goal of fostering a positive and empowering indigenous Māori worldview.* Our hosts explore how well-meaning neurotypicals often attempt to romanticize or exoticize autism by introducing alternative terms—while many autistics simply prefer to use the actual word to describe themselves.* Matt and Angela discuss labels, how we relate to them, and why person-first language can be harmful to autistics.* We also explore how colonizer language inevitably pathologizes everyone—except white people.* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.* We dive into candid discussions about global perspectives on disability, cultural appropriation, identity labels, and how colonialism is inherently b******t.“I don't like the idea of any allistic telling me what I have to do, ever. I may have PDA, but I have *especially* selective PDA about allistics telling me how to be autistic. Cause yeah, I will make eye contact if I want to. You can't make me not make eye contact.” - Matt“Do we have a fancy word for cancer or broken leg? It's just f*****g autism. No, it's just cancer. It's just broken leg. It's just autism.” - Angela “Did you know that even neurotypicals need some support once in awhile? Fancy that, cuz humans. But that's the thing. We live in such a colonialistic, bastardized society that says ‘lift yourself up by your bootstraps, be hyper-independent all the time, forever, always. And it frowns upon support needs of any kind.” - MattDid you notice how the Takiwātanga meme has sparked conversations about autism and language? In today's episode, we explore its origins, cultural significance, and the impact of alternative terms for autism. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the discussion in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What insights or perspectives resonated with you the most?Resources:https://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/a-time-and-space-for-takiwatanga/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-40493398https://www.reddit.com/r/ReoMaori/comments/y84278/is_the_term_takiwatanga_real/https://www.tereohapai.nz/https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-perceived-different-cultures/https://www.facebook.com/groups/tmyndwtmynd/posts/831990382463880/https://takiwatanga.org.nz/the-story-of-takiwatanga/Related Episodes:Labels are AutisticCareers are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that steals the spotlightHere's what's to come in this episode: * We kick off this episode by raising the curtain on Angela's theater kid lore and spotlighting how neurodiversity and theater make a show-stopping duo.* Our hosts dive into how being "dramatic" and "attention-seeking"—classic theater kid traits—are often just the shining stars of neurodivergence.* Other overlaps between theater and neurodivergence include being perceived as pretentious or aloof, unapologetically blunt, and passionately dedicated to one's interests.* Theater can serve as a safe haven for autistic individuals because it offers a structured and predictable environment. With everything carefully planned out and scripted, theater eliminates much of the uncertainty that can be overwhelming in everyday social interactions. This level of organization provides clear roles, boundaries, and expectations, allowing autistic folks to express themselves creatively without the stress of improvisation or ambiguity.* The sense of community found in theater can be profoundly meaningful to autistic individuals. The collaborative nature of productions fosters connections through shared goals and mutual support, creating bonds that feel genuine and purposeful. Additionally, the structure of theater often bypasses small talk, an interaction many autistic people find tedious or uncomfortable. Instead, conversations are focused on the work at hand—scripts, characters, and performances—which can feel far more engaging and meaningful for autistic folks.* Our hosts discuss how theater provides a healthy outlet for autistic individuals to mask, offering a safe space to navigate social expectations. They explore how typically challenging tasks, like making eye contact, become more manageable within a performance context—since it's the character, not the individual, taking on these actions.* Routines, along with clear and visual communication, are key reasons why the structure of theater arts resonates with autistic individuals. The predictability of rehearsals, performances, and cues, combined with visual aids like scripts, stage blocking, and set designs, creates an environment that feels logical and accessible for autistic participants.* Matt and Angela explore autistic-coded characters in theater, offering insights into their representation while critiquing how some plays lean too heavily on the "neurotypical savior" trope.* From Leo Bloom in The Producers to Maria in The Sound of Music to Matilda to Elle Woods and Alexander Hamilton, we spotlight theater characters who subtly display autistic traits you might not have noticed before.* Our hosts delve into Stephen Sondheim's work, highlighting how his hyper-focus and emotional intensity reflect traits commonly associated with autism.* Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking examples, this episode celebrates the beautiful intersections between theater and neurodivergence, showing how the stage can be a haven for autistic expression and representation.“Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people, that's a very specific number. Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people is very easy for me. The roles are incredibly clear, logical, and laid out. I am on stage. You are sitting in the seats watching me. I am playing a character and that is what you expect, want, and are paying for. The conversations onstage are scripted and written better than the ones in my real life.” - Matt“One of my biggest social challenges is I will share a piece of information and it's so obvious to me what the response is, which is usually something like ‘thank you, that was helpful information, my goodness'. And then the response I get is so different. It might be something like, ‘you're fired', or it will be like, ‘thank you', and then I find out they have told five people I'm a pretentious a*****e. And I'm like, how do these things not match up? But when there's a script, even if it's a Kafka play, where things don't make sense, you see it and it's fixed in time and it's going to be logical every time.” - Angela“I would love for somebody to go up and give me a bullet point brochure: Welcome to the neighborhood. Trash is on this day. You are allowed to have this. This is when this happens. This is when that happens. This is when that happens. I want a schedule. I want knowledge.” - MattHave you ever felt the ups and downs of life on the stage? In today's episode, Matt and Angela dive into how neurodivergent perspectives align with the unique world of theater. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their discussion resonate with your own theater experiences?Resources:Jenna Lourenco- www.jennalourenco.com -  There is a database there of plays featuring autistic characters and a growing list of openly autistic playwrights in the English-speaking world. Mickey Rowe Our Differences are Our Strengths: Neurodiversity in Theatre https://www.americantheatre.org/2015/05/04/the-curious-incidence-of-theatre-on-the-autism-spectrum/https://howtodanceinohiomusical.com/Maria from the sound of music - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPRETdLCW/Up Close and Very Personal With The Real Stephen Sondheim Stephen Sondheim Blackwings Sold at AuctionBlackwing Pencils - https://www.hamiltonpens.com/blogs/articles/the-blackwing-pencil-culture-controversy-and-creativity*Related Episodes:Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that celebrates neurodivergent creativity in writing.Here's what's write around the corner: * In this episode, we dive into one of Angela's favorite topics – writing – and explore how to approach creative projects through a neurodivergent perspective.* Matt and Angela break down the writing process from an autistic perspective, discussing how book mapping can be a powerful tool and why having systems in place for writing a book is just as essential as the systems and contingency plans autistic people rely on for everyday life.* In this episode, we dive into Angela's writing journey – from crafting stories at ten years old, to working for the government (and unintentionally developing a special interest in espionage), to founding Difference Press and reflecting on her journey to where she is today.* We also chat about our exclusive virtual writing circle on the paid Substack – where we share weekly prompts and write not for cash, but because writing is cathartic and life-affirming (though we wouldn't say no to a book deal). Sign up to join the fun – your creative soul (and inbox) will thank you!* We dive into how the writing process can be a game-changer for hyper-verbal autistic individuals, helping us find our thoughts, gain our footing, and communicate ideas more clearly – because sometimes putting pen to paper is the best way to organize that mental marathon.* Our hosts discuss how scripting is a core part of the neurodivergent experience and how it can be a powerful tool in shaping our writing process – because sometimes having a script is the key to making sense of the chaos.* We also dive into how hyper-focus can be a game-changer for the writing process (and how it's the secret behind Stephen King's impressive book count). When we're in the zone, there's no stopping us!* Matt and Angela explore writing as a powerful form of creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, and how it can be incredibly cathartic to write about our special interests, no matter who's reading. Sometimes, the writing's for us, not the audience!* Our hosts also chat about "discovering your author mojo" – which, let's be real, is just figuring out what conditions make your autistic meat body thrive while writing. Because when the setting's right, the words flow!* We also tackle how PDA autism and demand avoidance can sometimes stall our writing projects (ugh), and share some clever workarounds to push past those barriers and get the words flowing again!* Want to dive deeper into creative writing as an autistic individual? Join our writer's circle by becoming a paid Substack member today!“If I could just plug a word processor into my brain, I would generate book upon book like Stephen King, but it's the matter of using my inferior meat body to do this.” - Matt“This happens with a lot of us - our special interests become a career. Which I think is good, but when it becomes a thing you're making money on, it changes how you interact with it.”- Angela“If you want to write more, if you want to be more committed, the way you get better is by writing more. That's the whole secret.” - Angela “First of all, there's no such thing as a good writer. There is probably such a thing as a bad writer, but everybody has their own taste. But even if you genuinely suck and we would all agree you have a million problems with your writing, you're barely literate. If you find it enjoyable and fulfilling, write anyway.” - Angela “My take on it is that, while we have a lot of thoughts inside our brain, they're nebulous and not really defined. But when we are forced to go through with the act of translating it to communicate it to another person, that's where we truly find our idea.” - Matt“Fan fiction has to be 80% neurodivergent. There's just no other way, so. ” - AngelaHave you felt the ups and downs of the creative process? In today's episode, Matt and Angela dive into their neurodivergent approaches to writing, sharing the unexpected insights and challenges along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their journey resonate with your own creative experiences?Resources:Join our virtual writing circle. Details here: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/do-you-have-a-neurodivergent-narrative*Related Episodes:George Lucas is AutisticEminem is Autistic Cassandra in Reverse Book Club (Paid Access)Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Serving up an autistic take on Thanksgiving traditions!Here's what's in store for this episode: * Thanksgiving isn't always the easiest time for autistic people, with our senses of justice triggered by the holiday's problematic origins and the need to mask during family gatherings - in this episode, Matt and Angela talk about both navigating Thanksgiving as an autistic person and Mystery Science Theater 3000, a beloved autistic Thanksgiving tradition.* Matt and Angela explore the origins of Mystery Science Theater 3000 and how interactive TV serves as a beacon for autistic people.* Our hosts discuss how MST3K emphasizes the concept of found family, a theme that resonates deeply with autistic folks.* In this episode, we dive into the original Turkey Day marathons on Comedy Central that cemented MST3K as a Thanksgiving tradition, along with the show's turbulent journey across networks, Kickstarter campaigns, and different media platforms.* Matt and Angela also discuss how MST3K's bottom-up processing style of comedy makes it especially appealing to autistic folks.“For 24 hours, you watch really bad movies, you eat some stuffing, they had some new interstitials in there, and you get together with your friends and watch bad movies. Or, if you're alone, you get together with your friends on TV and watch some bad movies. So you still have some community. You are like Joel, keeping your sanity with the help of your robot friends. And to this day, this is the only Thanksgiving tradition I have.” - Matt“They just need more funding because, again, they don't have studio backing. They're doing it all completely independently. Just like we do it. We are often forced to be independent. We are often traumatically independent because we don't have that support system around us.” - Matt“I would rather do something small and funded myself than be beholden to explaining my creative ideas to these people that will never get it. It's not a problem to explain it. It's explaining it to people who are gonna drive you crazy.” - AngelaDid you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with the holidays? In today's episode, we're diving deep into Matt and Angela's autistic take on Thanksgiving and how Mystery Science Theater 3000 offers a perfect comfort break during it all! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights resonate with your own Thanksgiving traditions?Resources:https://www.gizmoplex.com/browsehttps://shoutfactory.com/collections/mystery-science-theater-3000 https://www.twitch.tv/mst3kRelated Episodes:Community is AutisticDinosaur is AutisticPoetry is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

An episode that takes on the heavy lifting.Here's what's packed into this episode: * In this episode, we tackle the autistic hell that is moving — diving into all the intricate details, overwhelming processes, and sharing strategies for coping through it all.* Our hosts discuss Matt's recent move and explore the time-consuming yet worthwhile systems autistic individuals often need to implement to stay comfortable and regulated in their own homes.* Matt and Angela dive into the art of emotional regulation and why it's such a foundational task for autistic folks. They also discuss how to incorporate emotional regulation strategies into the moving process as much as possible.* We discuss the importance of having our own Autistic Survival Packs in each room of the house and how crucial they are for regulation. Angela shares some of her essential items, including eye drops, nail files, phone chargers, and blankets for temperature regulation—a common issue for many autistic individuals.* In this episode, we also dive into how autistic folks often have a predisposition toward hoarding and emotional attachments to their belongings, and explore ways to break this generational curse.“As you know, we [autistic people] process 42% more information at rest than neurotypical people. Because of that, our brains are always churning through the data and always looking at the variables. Our brains are much more variable-focused. We're much more detail-oriented than neurotypical people. Neurotypical people are big-picture people. We are the minutiae. And when it comes to moving, it's all about the minutiae. ” - Matt“There's a lot of stuff that we [autistic folks] don't have opinions on - but when we do have opinions, we have f*****g strong opinions. And when we find something that just clicks with us, we need it. You need your mattress.” - Matt“Emotional regulation is our biggest job as autistic people. It's a full-time job, it's our number one job. There are going to be times you're dysregulated. You're gonna have to go to court, you're gonna have to go to the DMV, a cop is going to pull you over. You are going to be dysregulated some of the time. And so every single second you can possibly control being emotionally regulated, that's your job to put first in order.” - Angela“Well, so this is the thing about the ‘tism, right? Because again, the neurotypicals only know us by our deficits, but we only have the deficits when we're dysregulated. We only have the deficits when we are out of our element, when we are desperately trying to accommodate everyone else and everything else. We have to do that for us first. And in order to be a functional human being, you need to have that regulation.” - Matt“Is one of your techniques [for phone calls] is as soon as the phone picks up, I just start screaming ‘agent, agent, agent, f**k you, agent, let me talk to a person, f**k you. Do you do that? Is that your technique? It doesn't work, but it is my approach.” - Angela Did you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with moving? In today's episode, we're diving deep into Matt's recent move and all the unexpected hurdles along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights from Matt's story resonate with your own moving experiences?Resources:*The* Viral Tiktok Shower Head - Ziffit - Sell Your Books Matt's Favorite Disney Coffee Related Episodes:Questlove Is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt's Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela's social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe