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Why can alcohol feel so useful for autistic and neurodivergent people?

Chelsey Flood speaks with Associate Professor Dr Felicity Sedgewick about friendship, belonging, and the social challenges that can make alcohol feel helpful, necessary, or even protective. Together they explore loneliness, connection, and the pressures that shape social experiences for many neurodivergent people.

In this episode:

• Friendship and belonging
• Social challenges and connection
• Alcohol as a social tool
• Loneliness and isolation
• Neurodivergent experiences of community

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of mental health and loneliness.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when autism, ADHD, and menopause collide?

In this trailer, discover Autistic Menopause a podcast exploring the realities of neurodivergent menopause through lived experience, emerging research, and honest conversation. Hosted by Sam Galloway, the series examines the cognitive changes, sensory overwhelm, burnout, and shifting support needs that can accompany this often-overlooked stage of life, while reminding listeners that they are not alone.

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

🎧 Autistic Menopause is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by psychologist, speaker, author, and neurodiversity advocate Dr Matt Zakreski for a wide-ranging conversation about giftedness, ADHD, neurodivergence, education, and what true regulation actually looks like.

Together, Becca and Dr Matt explore why so many neurodivergent people grow up feeling like "weird horses" before discovering they're actually zebras, how environments shape success more than most people realise, and why many of the systems designed to support neurodivergent people still miss the mark. From gifted education and twice-exceptionality to school accommodations, therapy, and burnout, this episode challenges assumptions about what support should look like.

In this episode:

• What it means to be twice-exceptional (2e)
• Why giftedness is a form of neurodivergence
• The connection between justice, advocacy, and neurodivergent identity
• Common misconceptions about ADHD and neurodivergence
• What regulation really looks like beyond social media advice
• Why environment plays a critical role in wellbeing and success
• The limitations of traditional educational and therapeutic systems
• Universal design and creating neurodivergent-affirming environments
• Supporting gifted, disabled, and twice-exceptional learners
• The importance of self-compassion and understanding your own needs

Guest:

Dr Matt Zakreski is a clinical psychologist, professional speaker, author, podcaster, and leading advocate for gifted and neurodivergent individuals. His work focuses on helping neurodivergent people better understand themselves, develop practical strategies, and thrive in environments that often weren't designed with them in mind.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the final episode of this series of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore one of the most emotionally complex parts of working in theatre as a neurodivergent person: closing night.

Together, they unpack why ending a show can feel less like simple nostalgia and more like genuine grief — especially for neurodivergent theatre makers whose routines, relationships, identities, and nervous systems often become deeply intertwined with a production.

Part love letter to theatre and part conversation about grief, identity, and transition, this episode closes the series with a reminder that once theatre becomes part of you, it never really leaves.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Inspired by the extraordinary way a young swallow drops from its nest into flight, Ashley explores what it means to meet the present moment before certainty arrives.

Through a childhood trust fall that ended on the kitchen floor, her struggle to surrender to the flow of dancing, Ram Dass’s invitation to Be Here Now and Alan Watts’s unforgettable falling cat, this episode asks whether trust is really about knowing we will be caught - or remaining soft enough to respond when we don’t yet know what will hold us.

For neurodivergent minds accustomed to analysing the past, rehearsing the future and consciously predicting the next move, presence can feel far less peaceful than wellness culture often suggests. But perhaps presence is not the absence of uncertainty. Perhaps it is the moment uncertainty becomes usable.

This week’s Microdosing Meaning practice invites you to walk in on yourself worrying, ruminating or simply wandering through the ongoing stream of thought - and then walk in on the moment itself. What might become available when you meet it through awe, curiosity and play?

The episode closes with a gentle Yoga Nidra for cultivating trust: a loving homage to one of Ashley’s favourite Yoga Nidra teachers, Ally Boothroyd. Settle into the support beneath you, follow the swallow into open air and take a trust fall into the medicine of presence itself.

Ashley’s eight-week From Mask to Map group coaching programme begins on 15 September 2026 and is limited to ten people. Find out more at integrativeiom.co.uk.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to another edition of This Week in Autistic Culture, our Sunday magazine that brings together the stories, conversations, and ideas shaping Autistic culture each week.

This week begins with a conversation that many autistic people will recognise. As summer temperatures continue to climb, Simon and Angela reflect on the hidden social cost of sensory overwhelm, the impossible balance between accommodating yourself and meeting other people’s expectations, and why something as simple as leaving a family barbecue can carry so much guilt. They also explore new research on how Autistic people process faces, leading to a fascinating discussion about everything from face blindness to super-recognisers.

Across the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, another packed week follows those themes of understanding and acceptance. We celebrate Autistic special interests through the latest episode of Info Dump, explore the emotional reality of closing night in theatre, launch an important new series examining alternatives to ABA, and hear conversations about alcohol and masking, inclusive education, reading, regulation, American football, and much more.

Whether you’re discovering a new favourite podcast, catching up with the Autistic community, or simply spending your Sunday immersed in Autistic Culture, we’re delighted you’ve joined us.

This Week’s Topics

• The Social Tax of Autism
• New Research Reveals Autistic Brains Process Faces Differently

Books & research

• Autistically Me: How to understand and celebrate our unique minds by Bradley Riches

Events

• Autistic Mental Health Conference - NeuroHub Community Ltd - Friday, August 14th to Sunday 16th - From £50
• Across three inspiring days, the NeuroHub Mental Health Conference explores the theme “Ecosystemic Causes of Mental Health Issues”—examining how environments, systems, and societal structures shape neurodivergent wellbeing.

Creator updates

• Autistic Lives, Unmasked is an interview series that looks at what it means to live as an autistic person once the “dust” of diagnosis settles. This month is Devon Price Hosted by Mothernessauthor, Julie M Green, each monthly installment features an in-depth conversation with a prominent autistic voice, including Devon Price, Eliza Fricker, Eric Garcia, Megan Anna Neff, Lyric Rivera (NeuroDivergent Rebel), and others. Subscribe to The Autistic Mom Substack.

📻 Listen to Autistic Culture Radio

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Kelly joins Hannah Brockway to share three of her biggest passions: Star Wars, LEGO and cosplay, exploring how each has become an important part of her life and identity.

Together they discuss favourite characters, collecting and building LEGO sets, creating cosplay costumes, and the welcoming communities that can grow around shared interests. Along the way, Kelly reflects on creativity, belonging, and the joy of finding people who understand why the things you love matter so much.

Follow Kelly:

📸 Instagram: @padawan_rae

https://www.instagram.com/padawan_rae/

📸 Instagram: @swordfightingsoprano

https://www.instagram.com/swordfightingsoprano/

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

🎧 Info Dump is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP explore why Pokémon resonates so deeply with the Autistic community.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• How Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri’s childhood special interest in collecting bugs—rooted in his own autism diagnosis—inspired one of the world’s most successful franchises.
• Why the urge to collect, categorize, and analyse Pokémon appeals strongly to Autistic skills and motivations.
• The concept of “Flow” and how Pokémon’s immersive gameplay provides Autistics with joy, focus, and persistence through special interests.
• A critique of how allistic perspectives dismiss Autistic passions as “obsessions,” contrasted with the Autistic experience of joy, fun, and fulfilment.
• How Pokémon fosters authentic Autistic socializing and builds community through shared interests.
• Why Pokémon exemplifies Autistic culture as a celebration of curiosity, focus, and intrinsic motivation.

Resources:

• See Mew
• Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience

Related Episodes:

Ponies are Autistic

Dungeons & Dragons is Autistic

Animation is Autistic

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Could Long COVID be making ADHD symptoms worse? In this Hot Topic, Jordan and Simon explore emerging research into the link between Long COVID, brain fog and ADHD medication. As they discuss the science, Jordan begins connecting it to his own experiences with burnout, chronic pain and executive dysfunction after the pandemic.

A fascinating conversation about an area of research that's raising more questions than answers.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Under the Lights, Turrell Burgess counts down the greatest World Series games he's ever watched. Growing up in a baseball-loving family, these are the unforgettable nights that defined October baseball—from dramatic comebacks and extra-inning thrillers to legendary performances on the sport's biggest stage.

Choosing the best World Series games is no easy task, and narrowing the list down was tougher than ever. Turrell revisits the moments that made baseball history, explains why they still stand out today, and reveals the games that earned a place in his personal top 10.

⚾ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this week's Reddit Stories episode, Jordan and Simon discuss three thought-provoking neurodivergent dilemmas shared by the online community.

They begin with a discussion around whether it's wrong to hope your future children aren't neurodivergent, exploring disability, parenting, acceptance, and whether it's society—not neurodivergence itself—that creates many of the challenges autistic and ADHD people face.

They then unpack a story about a young man who refuses to eat in front of other people, leading to a wider conversation about ARFID, sensory differences, eating disorders, and why curiosity is often more helpful than judgement.

Finally, they discuss a chaotic birthday party where an autistic guest delivers a 45-minute presentation about Five Nights at Freddy's, exploring masking, alcohol, family dynamics, special interests, and the importance of understanding behaviour before jumping to conclusions.

*The stories discussed in this episode are public Reddit posts. Titles may be shortened for readability, and all opinions expressed are those of the original posters.

• I Don't Want My Kids to Be Neurodivergent

• AITA for Asking My Daughter's Boyfriend to Stop Having Dinner With Us?

• AITA for Walking Out of an Autistic Man's 45-Minute Five Nights at Freddy's Presentation?

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Autism Help, Heather McKay explores the often-overlooked connection between autism and incontinence, and the challenges many autistic people face in accessing understanding and appropriate support.

Heather discusses the discrimination experienced by autistic people with co-occurring incontinence, why these difficulties can occur, and what individuals, families, and carers can do to better support those affected. This episode shines a light on a topic that is rarely talked about but has a significant impact on quality of life.

Content Note

This episode includes discussion of incontinence, toileting, and discrimination experienced by autistic people.

Disclaimer

Autism Help is provided for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. The views expressed are based on the host's knowledge and lived experience. If you have questions about your health, treatment, or legal circumstances, please seek advice from an appropriately qualified professional.

🎧 Autism help is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What if autism therapy started with connection instead of compliance?

Welcome to Rethinking Autism Therapy, a new four-part mini-series exploring DIRFloortime®, a developmental, relationship-based approach that supports autistic people through connection, play, and understanding.

Hosted by Daria Brown, this series brings together autistic people, parents, caregivers, and professionals to explore what DIRFloortime® is, how it works in practice, and why many families and practitioners are choosing a different approach to autism support.

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Daria Brown: affectautism.com

Instagram: @affectautism

X: @affectautism

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/affectautism

The "We Chose Play" podcast from Affect Autism:

On Apple Podcasts & On Spotify

Daria is the author of We Chose Play: Raising an Autistic Child to Thrive and Feel Understood

🎧 Rethinking Autism Therapy is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Two Mics, No Masking, Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein are joined by Megara Bell, Director of Partners in Sex Education, to explore the intersection of queerness and neurodivergence, and what happens when the labels we're given don't reflect who we really are.

Together they discuss identity, belonging, and the ways schools and society often reinforce narrow ideas of what is "normal." Through an honest conversation about authenticity, acceptance, and self-discovery, they ask what it takes to create spaces where people no longer have to shrink themselves to belong.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode, Vicki sits down with Marissa Mosunich — neuro complex career coach, founder of Operate Well Consulting and Brave Zebra Work Coaching, and someone who is living the same questions on a slightly different timeline.

Marissa was diagnosed AuDHD at 34, just last year. She's taken her background in organizational management and her own lived experience and built a coaching practice that helps neurocomplex people navigate career pivots, workplace challenges, and the slow, practical work of building a professional life that actually fits.

They talk about why high-achieving women are so chronically late-diagnosed, what high masking costs over a lifetime, and what it looks like to start recognizing your own needs after decades of performing competence. Marissa also reads a poem she wrote called Outcomes — about the experience of unmasking, layer by layer, the spine finally understanding what it carries.

ABOUT MARISSA

Marissa Mosunich is a neuro affirming work coach and organizational consultant based on California's Central Coast. She founded Operate Well Consulting and Brave Zebra Work Coaching to support neurocomplex professionals in building sustainable careers that honor how their brains actually work.

Operate Well Consulting: https://operate-well.ghost.io/

Brave Zebra Work Coaching: https://operate-well.ghost.io/brave-zebra-work-coaching/

Instagram: @brave.zebra

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Lindsey Mackereth — therapist, researcher, and founder of the neurocomplexity framework.

Lindsey's Substack: https://lindseymackereth.substack.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it.

Hat on a Hat on a Hat (Substack): https://ahatonahatonahat.substack.com/

Donations are gratefully accepted and help keep this show going at whatever pace is sustainable.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/vickipeterson

✍️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the second half of their exploration of disruption, Helen and Elizabeth dive into the tricky world of social friction, authenticity, and the ethics of sharing creative work. Helen reflects on her commitment to honesty in her graphic diaries and the responsibilities that come with featuring real people in personal storytelling.

Together they explore how changes to routine can spark new creative possibilities, the challenges of navigating boundaries when art involves others, and how autistic values such as justice and honesty can shape the creative process. The conversation also examines rejection sensitive dysphoria, people-pleasing behaviours, and practical strategies for building healthier boundaries.

In this episode:

• Finding creative opportunities through disruption
• The ethics of sharing stories that involve other people
• Justice, honesty, and autistic culture
• Understanding rejection sensitive dysphoria
• People-pleasing and the fawn response
• Strategies for recognising and reducing harmful people-pleasing behaviours

Resources and Links

• Helen's graphic diary archive: https://arted.online/blog/diaries/
• Graphic diary template: https://arted.online/toolbox/resource-diary-template/
• The 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/the-10-pillars-revisited-episode
• Information about the fawn response: https://ndconnection.co.uk/blog/fawn-the-trauma-response-that-is-easiest-to-miss

Contact: creativebecomingpod@gmail.com

Support

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your GP or a relevant support service in your area.

Disclaimer

Creative Becoming is connected to Helen Shaddock's practice-based PhD, "Welcome to My Messy World": A practice-based, messy auto-ethnographic artistic exploration into multimedia storytelling as an integral method towards creative becoming.

🎨 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by writer, speaker, photographer, and paraeducator Michelle Steiner to discuss invisible disabilities, self-advocacy, and challenging the limits other people place on us.

Michelle shares her journey growing up with a learning disability and the many times she was told she would never attend university, become a published writer, or achieve her goals. Together, Becca and Michelle explore disability stigma, accommodations, education, and the importance of believing in yourself when others doubt your potential.

In this episode:

• Living with an invisible disability
• Overcoming low expectations and stigma
• Self-advocacy in education and adulthood
• Disability accommodations and accessibility
• Finding confidence through writing and storytelling
• Supporting students with disabilities
• The importance of representation
• Redefining success on your own terms

Guest:

Michelle Steiner is a writer, speaker, photographer, paraeducator, and creator of Michelle's Mission, a blog where she shares her experiences living with a learning disability while advocating for disability awareness and inclusion.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott dive into the emotional complexity of Dear Evan Hansen — a show about anxiety, isolation, social performance, and the dangerous power of finally being noticed.

Together, they explore why the musical resonates so strongly with neurodivergent audiences, unpacking themes of masking, maladaptive daydreaming, rejection sensitivity, and the desperate need to belong.

Blending musical analysis with personal lived experience, this episode examines what happens when honesty doesn’t feel safe — and the emotional consequences of building connection through performance instead of authenticity.

Whether you see Evan Hansen as a victim, a villain, or something painfully in-between, this conversation asks a difficult question: what do people do when they believe the truth won’t make them lovable?

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What becomes possible when we stop demanding that every moment lead somewhere predictable?

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores the neurodivergent nuance of play as a powerful state of openness, learning and nervous-system flexibility.

For many neurodivergent adults, life can become tightly organised around prediction, responsibility and holding everything together. Play offers a different atmosphere. The outcome remains open. Mistakes become information. The body is given permission to experiment without needing to perform.

Drawing on ideas from Dr Andrew Huberman, movement specialist Ido Portal and basketball great Kobe Bryant, Ashley explores play as low-stakes possibility, active softness and a doorway into neuroplasticity. She reflects on the healing power of silliness, the surprising intelligence of the subconscious, the freedom of being misunderstood without abandoning yourself - and one deeply judgemental little plushie toy dog.

This week’s Bite-Sized Buddhism considers the balance between strings held too tightly and too loosely, while Microdosing Meaning invites you to make one ordinary moment just five per cent more playful.

The episode closes with Wild and Wise, a guided visualisation bringing together the part of you that creates safety and the part that remains willing to explore, laugh and be surprised.

Perhaps play is what happens when wisdom creates enough safety for wildness to come alive.

The eight-week From Mask to Map group coaching cohort begins on 15 September and is limited to ten people. Details are available at integrativeiom.co.uk.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the very first episode of Info Dump, host Hannah Brockway sits down with lifelong Whovian Megan for a joyful deep dive into one of television's most enduring science fiction series.

Together they discuss favourite Doctors, companions and writers, the creativity behind the show's famously low-budget production, and why great storytelling has always mattered more than special effects. Megan also reflects on how Doctor Who has shaped her hobbies, travels and creative life, and why sharing a special interest with someone who genuinely wants to listen is such a rewarding experience.

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

🎧 Info Dump is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Angela returns to the studio to join Simon for another edition of This Week in Autistic Culture, the Sunday magazine show from the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

This week, we discuss the importance of water safety as new research highlights the increased risk of drowning among autistic children during the summer months. We also explore an inspiring new free sign language app created by a former Disney animator, designed to make learning ASL more accessible through interactive animation.

Looking ahead across the network, we celebrate the launch of Info Dump, a brand-new podcast dedicated to the joy of autistic special interests, beginning with an episode all about Doctor Who. We also preview new episodes of Mindful Mondays, Theatrically Authentic, Creative Becoming, Regulation Station, Neuro Complex Creative, Two Mics, No Masking, The Neurodivergent Experience, Autism Help, Under the Lights, and an Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind exploring why Pokémon has become such an enduring autistic special interest.

Plus, we share community news, including autism-friendly race days, a new communication app from Stimpunks, and a forthcoming book on navigating change and uncertainty as a neurodivergent adult.

Whether you're catching up on the latest stories, discovering a new favourite podcast, or connecting with the wider autistic community, we're glad you're here.

This Week’s Topics

• Autistic children drown at alarming rates ‑ swim lessons and water safety strategies can save their lives
• ‘Frozen’ animator launches an interactive ASL learning app and vows to keep it free forever

Books & research

• Dealing with Change, Loss and the Unexpected: A Practical Guide for Neurodivergent Adults by Hannah Louise Belcher

Events

• Autism in Racing Events (UK)

Creator updates

• Cavendish Card - ways of shaping the space around real needs instead of asking people to hide them.

📻 Listen to Autistic Culture Radio

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP investigate Sherlock Holmes as an Autistic-coded cultural icon.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• Why Sherlock’s outsider status and “alien vibe” resonate with Autistic experiences of being misunderstood.
• The Autistic good vibes of alone time, stimming (yes, pipes count!), deep research, and turning special interests into meaningful careers.
• How bottom-up processing and monotropic focus help Autistics spot details and uncover truths others miss.
• Why social batteries drain quickly for Autistics—and how ignoring this need for rest causes distress and breakdowns.
• How moral “inflexibility” and generosity, often seen as naivety, are actually positive Autistic strengths.
• A study showing Autistics refused to cheat for money, even when allistics did, and what that says about integrity.
• How Dr. Watson’s appreciation of Sherlock’s loyalty and “great heart” mirrors the double empathy problem and ways Autistics and allistics can bridge it.

Resources:

The Complete Sherlock Holmes

Related Episodes:

Andy Warhol is Autistic

Tim Burton is Autistic

Washington, D.C. is Autistic

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🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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A BBC News article about an ADHD employment tribunal sparks a wider conversation about what it means to be neurodivergent at work.

Jordan and Simon discuss reasonable adjustments, why communication differences are often misunderstood, and whether employers are keeping up with growing awareness of ADHD and autism. They also explore the difficult question many neurodivergent people now face: should you disclose your diagnosis during the hiring process, or could honesty work against you?

BBC News Article: ADHD has rewired the workplace. This is what it means for bosses and workers

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Under the Lights, Turrell Burgess counts down the greatest NBA Playoff series from a lifetime of watching basketball. From fierce rivalries and dramatic Game 7s to unforgettable performances and championship-defining battles, these are the series that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Every playoff run tells a story, but some become part of basketball history. Turrell revisits the matchups that delivered unforgettable moments, explores what made each series so special, and shares why they continue to stand out years after the final buzzer.

🏀 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Autism Help, Heather McKay explores avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, commonly known as ARFID, and how it can affect autistic people.

Heather discusses the different treatments currently offered for ARFID and explains why some approaches may be ineffective or even make eating more difficult for autistic people, including contributing to the loss of safe foods. She also introduces some of the changes that may help make support more appropriate and accessible.

Content Note

This episode includes detailed discussion of food, restrictive eating, eating disorders, and experiences of ARFID. Please listen with care if these subjects may be difficult or triggering for you.

Disclaimer

This podcast is for general information only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. Please consult an appropriately qualified professional about your individual circumstances.

🎧 Autism help is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In our first Reddit Stories episode, Jordan and Simon discuss four real-life neurodivergent dilemmas shared by the online community.

They begin with a heartfelt post from a 16-year-old worried he's "becoming an incel" after years of rejection and social isolation, exploring autism, rejection sensitivity, masking and why school can feel so overwhelming. They also discuss why so many people with ADHD struggle to finish video games despite genuinely wanting to, before unpacking a workplace story about someone being mocked for their special interest—and why accepting people's passions matters more than we often realise. Finally, they explore a refreshing first date between two neurodivergent adults and discuss authenticity, relationships and finding people who truly understand you.

The stories discussed in this episode are public Reddit posts. Titles may be shortened for readability, and all opinions expressed are those of the original posters.

• I'm Becoming An Incel, Help!

https://reddit.com/...

• How Do You Actually Finish Games with ADHD?

https://reddit.com/...

• AITA for Telling My Co-worker I'm Tired of Hearing About Her Nerdy Obsession?

https://reddit.com/...

• I Went on a Date with a Neurodivergent Guy

https://reddit.com/...

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when you give an autistic person permission to talk about the thing they love most?

Welcome to Info Dump, the podcast where special interests take centre stage.

Hosted by Hannah Brockway, each episode invites a different guest to dive headfirst into the subject they're most passionate about, from pop culture and music to wildlife, technology and everything in between.

Produced for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Follow Hannah Brockway:

📸 Instagram: @house_elf_hannah

https://www.instagram.com/house_elf_hannah/

📸 Instagram: @hannah_unmasked

https://www.instagram.com/hannah_unmasked/

🎧 Info Dump is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Two Mics, No Masking, Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein explore the power of humour as more than entertainment. For many neurodivergent people, laughter can challenge assumptions, expose contradictions, and create connection in ways that words alone often can't.

Together they reflect on how humour can cut through hierarchy, question arbitrary rules, and reveal truths that others might prefer to ignore. From everyday interactions to wider social systems, Katie and Jenna discuss why humour can be a powerful form of resistance—and why, sometimes, it's also a way of surviving.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the final episode of Clinical Misfits, Dr Mary discusses some genetic conditions that account for a lot of the physical, mental, psychological and behavioural characteristics, present in varying degrees in the majority of neurodivergent people. These are largely due to defects in collagen!

Collagen is a major structural protein throughout the body and nervous system. In the majority of cases, this causes organs, blood vessels, bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments to sag. The result may be weakness in many organs and structures, including throughout the gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal, respiratory, reproductive, urinary and nervous system.

Oh wait! That's pretty much the whole person! Want to know how this works? Dr Mary has some good information in this episode!

🩺 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by psychotherapist and Clinically Awkward host Alyssa Zimmerman for a conversation about therapy, neurodivergence, relationships, and what it means to build a life that works with your brain rather than against it.

Together they explore the realities of being an AuDHD therapist, the impact of masking and burnout, and the importance of creating environments that support neurodivergent needs. Alyssa shares insights from both her professional practice and personal experiences, discussing everything from executive dysfunction and special interests to dating, boundaries, and self-acceptance.

In this episode:

• Being an AuDHD therapist
• Creating neurodivergent-friendly work environments
• Masking, burnout, and identity
• Executive dysfunction and reducing shame
• Special interests and hyperfixations
• Neurodivergence, dating, and relationships
• Boundaries, communication, and emotional safety
• Why humour can be an important regulation tool

Guest:

Alyssa Zimmerman is a New York City-based psychotherapist and the host of Clinically Awkward, a podcast for neurodivergent women, femmes, and thems exploring hyperfixations, identity, and everyday life.

• Clinically Awkward Podcast

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when the strategies that once helped you survive stop working?

Ebony Nash joins Chelsey Flood for a conversation about alcohol, neurodivergence, burnout, and identity. Together they explore the limits of coping strategies, the impact of masking over time, and what it means to build a life that no longer depends on survival mechanisms.

In this episode:

• Alcohol and coping
• Neurodivergence and identity
• Burnout and exhaustion
• Letting go of strategies that no longer serve you
• Finding a way forward

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of alcohol use and mental health.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What changes when we stop trying to force an answer and become genuinely curious about what is happening?

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores curiosity as one of the most powerful ways we can shift the context of a difficult moment - moving from frustration, judgement and fixed conclusions into pattern, relationship and possibility.

After discovering that she had mentioned curiosity in more than 600 emails to clients, Ashley reflects on why this quality runs so deeply through her work. She shares the deceptively simple moment that brought it all into focus: trying to untangle a knotted wire and suddenly asking:

“What is the relationship here?”

That question changed the entire experience. The knot became a pattern, her hands began to move more intuitively, and the solution seemed to emerge through a deeper intelligence than conscious effort alone.

Through a neurodivergent and From Mask to Map lens, the episode explores how natural curiosity may become hidden beneath masking, how judgement can disguise itself as a question, and why compassionate inquiry helps us see the relationships between our nervous system, environment, beliefs and behaviour.

Ashley also introduces three living prompts:

What is the relationship here?

I’m learning. They’re learning.

Where’s the gift?

The episode closes with The Living Question, a guided practice using body awareness, breath and imagery to explore how attention changes experience - and how one spacious question can create room for the deeper mind to respond.

Perhaps curiosity’s greatest gift is that it allows reality to remain more interesting than our first conclusion.

Mindful Mondays is part of The Neurodivergent Experience on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott dive deep into Hamilton — the cultural phenomenon that transformed modern musical theatre and became a hyperfixation for an entire generation of neurodivergent fans.

From lyrical density and internal rhyme to reprises, motifs, and layered historical storytelling, they explore why Hamilton feels less like a musical… and more like a system built to be decoded.

Sarah reflects on her experience working on Hamilton in London’s West End as a member of the sound department, sharing behind-the-scenes insight into learning and mixing one of the most structurally complex musicals ever staged — and how the show shaped both her career and understanding of her own neurodivergence.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to another edition of This Week in Autistic Culture, our Sunday magazine that brings together the stories, conversations, and ideas shaping Autistic culture each week.

As Angela is away this week, James Hepworth, host of Collecting Fish and Hyperfocus FC, joins Simon as a guest co-host.

We begin with a look back at Collecting Fish, reflecting on the first season and sharing an update on how James’ marine tank is developing. Then we turn to the FIFA World Cup Final, where Spain lifted the trophy while Argentina’s tournament ended in controversy, before looking back at the competition as a whole and what made this year’s tournament so memorable.

As always, we’ll also take you through everything coming up this week across the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, with new episodes exploring Hamilton, masking and burnout, therapy, genetics, humour, ARFID, basketball, and much more.

Let’s dive in.

🎧 Start Here: Autistic Culture Radio: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0yJ56B3GcrqrlOMS537ve1?si=JxKnd3u_QS6andwrN8yHOA

📻 On Air This Week:

Monday 27th July:

Theatrically Authentic – Episode 6: Built like A System - Hamilton

Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott dive deep into Hamilton — the cultural phenomenon that transformed modern musical theatre and became a hyperfixation for an entire generation of neurodivergent fans.

Mindful Mondays with Ashley Dupuy

Ashley returns with another mindful reflection and guided meditation to help neurodivergent listeners begin the week with intention and regulation.

Tuesday 28th July:

Drinking to Mask and Unmask - Episode 4: When the Mask Stops Masking

What happens when the strategies that once helped you survive stop working?

Ebony Nash joins Chelsey Flood on Drinking to Mask and Unmask for a conversation about alcohol, neurodivergence, burnout, and identity.

Together they explore the limits of coping strategies, the impact of masking over time, and what it means to build a life that no longer depends on survival mechanisms.

Regulation Station – Episode 6: Navigating Life as an AuDHD Therapist

In this week's episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by psychotherapist and Clinically Awkward host Alyssa Zimmerman for a conversation about therapy, neurodivergence, relationships, and what it means to build a life that works with your brain rather than against it.

Wednesday 29th July:

Clinical Misfits - Episode 4: Collagen Changes Everything

In the final episode of Clinical Misfits, Dr Mary discusses some genetic conditions that account for a lot of the physical, mental, psychological and behavioural characteristics present in varying degrees in the majority of neurodivergent people. These are largely due to defects in collagen!

Two Mics No Masking - Episode 3: Humour as Kryptonite to Hierarchy

Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein explore the power of humour as more than entertainment. For many neurodivergent people, laughter can challenge assumptions, expose contradictions, and create connection in ways that words alone often can't.

Thursday 30th July:

NEW SHOW - Autism Help– Episode 1: ARFID and Autism

Heather McKay talks about ARFID in autistic people, and how the current treatments for ARFID actually make our ARFID worse, and cause us to drop safe foods.

The Neurodivergent Experience - Episode 121

Jordan James and Simon Scott return for a conversation about the Neurodivergent Experience!

Friday 31st July:

Hot Topic Friday

A new discussion from The Neurodivergent Experience team, tackling a fresh topic from the world of neurodivergence.

Under The Lights - Episode 2: Top 10 NBA Playoff Series

Turrell Burgess counts down the greatest NBA Playoff series from a lifetime of watching basketball.

📚 From the Archive - Saturday 1st August

Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind – Sherlock is Autistic

Rewind with an Autistic Culture Podcast classic, as we investigate Sherlock Holmes as an Autistic-coded cultural icon.

Please rate, share and review our shows, as it helps them grow and reach more people! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP reframe Hans Christian Andersen—not as the “awkward, difficult” writer he’s often portrayed to be, but as a figure whose life and work reflect Autistic culture.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• How Andersen’s special interests, social struggles, and speech differences align with Autistic traits.
• Why stories like The Ugly Duckling, The Little Mermaid, and The Princess and the Pea resonate so strongly with Autistic experiences of difference, masking, and sensory sensitivity.
• How sensory seeking and avoiding show up in both Andersen’s life and his fairytales.
• Why direct communication, existential loneliness, and intense friendships (like his troubled bond with Charles Dickens) are part of the Autistic lens.
• Matt’s critique of exposure therapy and why Autistics don’t “habituate” the way allistics do—making sensitivity a trait, not a flaw.
• Angela’s personal reflection on The Princess and the Pea as a story that validated her own sensitivity and reframed it as special.
• How Andersen’s work, viewed through Autistic culture, provides representation, validation, and connection across generations.

Resources:

• Complete Works of Hans Christian Andersen
• Hans Christian Andersen Centre
• A Weird visit to Dickens House: Charles Dickens really, really hated his fanboy Hans Christian Andersen.
• BLEAK HOUSE GUEST (movie)
• Dickens Mistress Nelly:
• Charles Dickens AWESOME Wife Catherine
• The Genesis of Artistic Creativity: Asperger's Syndrome and the Arts
• Writers on the Spectrum

Related Episodes:

Beauty and the Beast is Autistic

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Understanding autism means understanding everything that comes with it.

Welcome to Autism Help, a podcast exploring the co-occurring conditions, daily challenges, and practical realities that shape the lives of autistic people and those who support them. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Heather McKay (she/they)—a late-diagnosed autistic mother of two, educator, company director, and author of Autism: The Big Book Set of Help—the series provides honest, neuroaffirming conversations about topics that are often overlooked, misunderstood, or poorly explained by mainstream services.

Drawing on lived experience, years of facilitating support groups, and extensive research, Heather explores subjects including ARFID, executive dysfunction, sleep disorders, fibromyalgia, incontinence, literacy, and supporting multiply-disabled children. Each episode aims to provide practical knowledge, reduce isolation, and help listeners better understand autistic life beyond the diagnostic criteria.

Whether you're autistic yourself, a parent, educator, support worker, or healthcare professional, Autism Help offers accessible, evidence-informed conversations grounded in both expertise and lived experience.

🎧 Autism help is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Could a simple zinc supplement help with ADHD symptoms?

In this Hot Topic, Jordan shares his personal experience after taking zinc for over two months, while Simon explores the latest research into zinc, dopamine and brain health. They discuss what the science says, how zinc may support ADHD alongside medication, and why it's no replacement for medical advice—plus plenty of laughs along the way.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the debut episode of Under the Lights, Turrell Burgess counts down his favourite March Madness moments from a lifetime of watching the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament. From unforgettable buzzer-beaters and stunning Cinderella runs to shocking upsets and championship drama, this is a celebration of the games that became part of college basketball history.

Whether you've followed the tournament for decades or you're discovering March Madness for the first time, Turrell revisits the moments that captured the imagination of fans and explains why they still stand out today.

🏀 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Regardless of what disability you have, you have a lot to rant about!

Especially when it comes to accessibility, whenever you try to go somewhere. The sensory assault autistic folks may experience when trying to have a meal in peace, the gaslighting and infantilization that folks of all disabilities are subjected to,, and of course, just not being able to get there because your mobility aid can’t go up stairs, and more! These make it difficult to visit places, whether they are essential for our survival or “just” for our ability to take part in society.

For this episode, I was joined by Tal(y) Wozner (pronouns: she/her), filmmaker and queer and disability activist. Together, we tried to build a bridge across disabilities and found out we needed to all have each other’s backs.

Content and Language notes: Sexuality and drug use are briefly mentioned using the words porn, semen, flirt and high. The words bitch, bitchy, butt, shit, bullshit and fuck are being used occasionally.

You can support Aut2Aut on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop. This will help prepped.to go on providing a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Lacey Artemis from beyondquietrooms.com and the findings from her survey about sensory issues folks have in venues, by neurotype. Also, I met her at Autscape online.
• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support my nonprofit
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan and Simon explore three real-life neurodivergent dilemmas inspired by online community discussions.

This week they discuss feeling like you don't belong, why ADHD can make friendships and messaging so difficult, and whether coffee really affects ADHD medication.

Honest conversations, lived experience, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring: sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode, Vicki sits down with her longtime friend and collaborator TJ Berden — filmmaker, producer, and one of her people — for a conversation twenty years in the making.

They talk about finding your people in Hollywood, what it means to have big dreams and a big heart in a town that wants to know if it's sellable, and what it looks like to stay true to your values across two decades of an industry that keeps changing the rules. They also talk about neurodivergent creatives — what TJ calls pearl divers — and what it means to make work that goes to the depths of human experience.

This is a conversation about traumedy, friendship, identity, and why the stories that are hardest to tell are usually the ones most worth making.

ABOUT TJ

TJ Berden is a filmmaker and producer based in Michigan. He has produced films distributed by major studios and made documentaries on subjects ranging from prison reform to education reform to faith. His current project is Cinderella Nun — a documentary about Sister Jean Dolores Schmidt, the 106-year-old nun and New York Times bestselling author who became one of the most beloved figures in college basketball.

Cinderella Nun: https://www.cinderellanun.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it.

Hat on a Hat on a Hat (Substack): https://ahatonahatonahat.substack.com/

Donations are gratefully accepted and help keep this show going at whatever pace is sustainable.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/vickipeterson

✍️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Two Mics, No Masking, Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein unpack the hidden assumptions behind behaviorism and ask what happens when society decides there's only one "right" way to think, behave, and exist.

Together they explore why expecting neurodivergent people to conform can be deeply harmful, particularly for children, and challenge the belief that outward behaviour tells the whole story. Through personal reflection and honest conversation, Katie and Jenna examine what changes when we move beyond compliance and begin valuing different ways of experiencing the world.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Creative Becoming, Helen and Elizabeth explore how life's unexpected disruptions can become catalysts for creativity. Elizabeth shares her progress in quieting her inner critic and finding joy in drawing flowers, while Helen reflects on how her graphic art diaries became a lifeline during some of her most challenging experiences.

Together they discuss how artists have used uncertainty, chance, and disruption as creative tools, and how adapting to unexpected circumstances can open new pathways for self-expression. The conversation also explores stimming, emotional regulation, and the ways creativity can help us navigate periods of change.

In this episode:

• Creativity through disruption and change
• Artists who embrace chance and unpredictability
• Helen's experience of creativity during a long hospital stay
• Finding creative space while away from home
• Turning setbacks into new artistic opportunities
• Understanding stimming and emotional regulation

Resources and Links

• Helen's graphic diary archive: https://arted.online/blog/diaries/
• Graphic diary template: https://arted.online/toolbox/resource-diary-template/
• The 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/the-10-pillars-revisited-episode
• Information about stimming from the National Autistic Society: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/about-autism/repeated-movements-and-behaviour-stimming

Contact: creativebecomingpod@gmail.com

Support

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your GP or a relevant support service in your area.

Disclaimer

Creative Becoming is connected to Helen Shaddock's practice-based PhD, "Welcome to My Messy World": A practice-based, messy auto-ethnographic artistic exploration into multimedia storytelling as an integral method towards creative becoming.

🎨Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by autism care specialist, author, and advocate Carra Dixon to discuss inclusion, education, and the power of early understanding.

Carra shares the experience that inspired her children's book series Malia Makes a Friend and reflects on the importance of teaching children about autism from an early age. Together, Becca and Carra explore the role educators play in supporting autistic students, the need for greater neurodiversity education, and how small moments of understanding can create lasting change.

The conversation also examines friendship, acceptance, advocacy, and why meaningful inclusion extends beyond the classroom into parks, restaurants, and everyday community spaces.

In this episode:

• Why autism acceptance must go beyond awareness
• Teaching children about neurodiversity from an early age
• Supporting autistic students in educational settings
• The role of educators as both teachers and nurturers
• Friendship, belonging, and inclusion
• Creating sensory-friendly community spaces
• Advocacy, activism, and creating change
• How stories can help children understand differences

Guest:

Carra Dixon is an autism care specialist, advocate, and author of the Malia Makes a Friend children's book series, which helps children learn about autism, friendship, and inclusion through relatable stories and characters.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore what happens when audiences recognise neurodivergence in a character… but the script never says it out loud.

From beloved fan favourites to controversial portrayals, they discuss why certain characters resonate so deeply with neurodivergent audiences — and where the line exists between meaningful representation and harmful caricature.

Along the way, Simon and Sarah unpack echolalia, justice sensitivity, hyperfocus, catastrophising, masking, sensory overwhelm, and why so many neurodivergent performers are drawn to emotionally heightened storytelling.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when something is so vast, beautiful or mysterious that the mind has to widen in order to take it in?

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores the science and neurodivergent nuance of awe - the emotion that can arrive through nature, music, art, human kindness, big ideas, collective experience and the smallest details of ordinary life.

Inspired by Dr Dacher Keltner’s conversation with Dr Andrew Huberman, Ashley looks at how awe can shift our sense of scale, loosen the grip of habitual thinking and place our current problems inside a much wider landscape.

She also explores how sensory sensitivity can make awe feel especially vivid for neurodivergent people - while also meaning that the doorway into awe needs to feel safe.

Ashley shares a remarkable experience from her recovery after surgery, when waves of frisson - tingling, goosebumps and a heightened sense of being moved - began arriving several times a day during a noticeable period of healing.

The episode closes with An Imaginal Awe Walk, beginning with a single leaf and gradually widening to the tree, the landscape, the Earth and the universe beyond it.

Because awe does not always require a mountaintop.

Sometimes it begins with something we might otherwise have walked straight past.

Mindful Mondays is part of The Neurodivergent Experience on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Find Ashley’s longer meditations, Yoga Nidras and Bedtime Alchemy stories on Insight Timer by searching Ashley Dupuy.

Ashley is also developing her From Mask to Map group coaching cohort beginning in September. More details will be available on her website soon. For now, register your interest at integrativeiom@gmail.com.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to This Week in Autistic CultureWelcome to another edition of This Week in Autistic Culture, our Sunday magazine that brings together the stories, conversations, and ideas shaping Autistic culture each week.

This week we’re exploring the power of shared passions and community, from Simon’s unforgettable experience seeing My Chemical Romance at Wembley to the excitement of the FIFA World Cup as it reaches its dramatic conclusion. We also share opportunities from our Community Noticeboard, celebrate projects happening across the Autistic community, and take a look at another packed week of new programmes from across the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

🎧 Start Here: Autistic Culture Radio

Monday 20th July:

Theatrically Authentic – Episode 5: Coded But Not Confirmed

Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore what happens when audiences recognise neurodivergence in a character… but the script never says it out loud in Theatrically Authentic.

From beloved fan favourites to controversial portrayals, they discuss why certain characters resonate so deeply with neurodivergent audiences — and where the line exists between meaningful representation and harmful caricature.

Mindful Mondays with Ashley Dupuy

Ashley returns with another mindful reflection and guided meditation to help neurodivergent listeners begin the week with intention and regulation.

Tuesday 21st July:

Creative Becoming – Episode 4: Catalyst For Creativity

Helen and Elizabeth explore how life's unexpected disruptions can become catalysts for creativity in EP4 of Creative Becoming

Regulation Station – Episode 5: It Starts with One Child: Creating Inclusive Classrooms

In this week's episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by autism care specialist, author, and advocate Carra Dixon to discuss inclusion, education, and the power of early understanding.

Wednesday 22nd July:

The Neurocomplex Creative– Episode 3: Big Hearts, Hollywood Dreams

Vicki sits down with her longtime friend and collaborator TJ Berden — filmmaker, producer, and one of her people — for a conversation twenty years in the making on EP3 of The Neurocomplex Creative.

Two Mics No Masking - Episode 2: Behaviourism as the Ultimate Human Hubris

Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein unpack the hidden assumptions behind behaviourism and ask what happens when society decides there’s only one “right” way to think, behave, and exist, in our new show Two Mics No Masking.

Thursday 23rd July:

Autistic Rant Hour – Episode 6: Accessibility Across Disabilities

This week on Autistic Rant Hour, Dr Gal rants about Accessibility Across Disabilities - with guest Tal(y) Wozner (pronouns: she/her), filmmaker and queer and disability activist.

The Neurodivergent Experience - Episode 120

Jordan James and Simon Scott return for a conversation about the Neurodivergent Experience!

Friday 24th July:

Hot Topic Friday

A new discussion from The Neurodivergent Experience team, tackling a fresh topic from the world of neurodivergence.

NEW SHOW - Under The Lights: March Madness

Under the lights with Turrell Burgess arrives, counting down the biggest sports moments from the NCAA Men’s basketball tournament, better known as March Madness.

📚 From the Archive - Saturday 25th July

Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind – Apple is Autistic

Rewind with an Autistic Culture Podcast classic, as we reframe Hans Christian Andersen—not as the “awkward, difficult” writer he’s often portrayed to be, but as a figure whose life and work reflect Autistic culture.

Please rate, share and review our shows, as it helps them grow and reach more people! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP explore how Steve Jobs’ Autistic traits shaped Apple’s revolutionary success.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• How Jobs’ attention to design details—every bevel, chamfer, and colour shade—reflects Autistic hyperfocus and precision.
• Why his personal uniform of black turtlenecks and jeans embodies Autistic values of simplicity, comfort, and consistency.
• How his dislike of buttons and love of clean design align with Autistic sensory preferences.
• Why Jobs’ direct communication style was often misunderstood as narcissism, when it was actually clarity and problem-solving.
• How his practice of Zen Buddhism intersected with special interests in technology to spark ground-breaking creativity.
• The role of Autistic innovation in Apple’s most iconic contributions, from the buttonless mouse to the iPad.
• Why Apple’s “Think Different” campaign perfectly captures the Autistic spirit of misfits and world-changers.

Resources:

• Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson
• The Iconic Think Different Apple ad
• Was Steve Jobs Autistic?
• Steve Jobs’ Commitment to Great Design

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the final episode of this series of Collecting Fish, James Hepworth reflects on the current state of the aquarium hobby and the challenges shaping its future.

From online education and captive breeding to social media, consumerism, and sustainability, this episode explores both the strengths and contradictions of modern fishkeeping.

James discusses:

• Aquarium communities and accessible education
• Fishkeeping as an escape from digital life
• Ecosystem-focused aquariums and natural fishkeeping
• Sustainability and responsible stocking
• The relationship between science, creativity, and animal care.

James also breaks down the darker side of the hobby, including:

• Impulse buying
• Status-driven aquariums
• Misinformation online
• Unsuitable species in home aquariums
• Environmental and ethical concerns within fishkeeping.

Blending personal experience with ethical reflection, this episode explores what it means to be a responsible fishkeeper in the modern world — and why patience, restraint, and understanding nature may matter more than ever.

🐠 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Every fan remembers where they were.

Welcome to Under the Lights, a podcast celebrating the sporting moments that defined generations of fans. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Turrell Burgess, an autistic sports fan whose life has been shaped by unforgettable games, dramatic upsets, legendary performances, and championship moments, the series counts down personal top 10s from across the sporting world.

From March Madness buzzer-beaters and iconic NBA playoff battles to unforgettable World Series games and legendary Super Bowls, each episode revisits the moments that became part of sports history—and explores why they still matter to the fans who experienced them.

Whether you're a lifelong sports fanatic, a casual fan, or simply curious about the games everyone still talks about years later, Under the Lights offers nostalgia, storytelling, context, and celebration in equal measure.

🏆 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott reflect on something many neurodivergent people quietly struggle with: birthdays. From opening presents and being sung to, to processing surprises and responding to gifts "the right way," they explore why birthdays can feel surprisingly overwhelming.

They also discuss demand avoidance around replying to birthday messages, the pressure of being the centre of attention, childhood birthday memories, and how expectations around gratitude can create anxiety rather than joy. Along the way, they reflect on why experiences often mean more than possessions, the role of special interests in gift giving, and how understanding someone's neurodivergence can completely change the way we celebrate them.

A warm, funny, and surprisingly insightful conversation about birthdays, relationships, and the little social expectations that can feel much bigger when you have a neurodivergent brain.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Exact Sciences are things folks who consider themselves rational and logical assume can be trusted. And they would be, but scientists are only human, and some of them aren’t even autistic, gasp!

I had the privilege of pursuing an academic career in Natural Sciences, and there I found hard-working, dedicated professors, who would base their calculations on values with dubious origins, and reject valid findings to scoop the author’s work and publish it as their own.

In this scientific episode I will be joined by Dr. Mary Sims (pronouns: she/her), and together we will spill the tea about science shenanigans, and on the way, you might even learn some random details about atmospheric aerosols, vibrational spectroscopy and self-assambled monolayers.

You can find Dr Mary Sims’ podcast, Clinical Misfits on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network here.

You can support Aut2Aut on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop. This will help prepped.to go on providing a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions.

My cat Merlin has a message for you at the end of the episode.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Dr. Mary Sims’ podcast, Clinical Misfits [APCN please insert link here]
• My paper about the refractive index of Elemental Carbon
• My paper about using the Vibrational Stark effect to investigate Self-Assambled Monolayers
• Fafarman et al. 2010 about the effect of hydrogen bonding on the Star tuning rate. Correction: the numbers I’m referring to are not in a table but a chart in their supplementary material section.
• Where physicists upload their papers without peer review: arXiv.org
• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support my nonprofit
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan and Simon explore one of the most challenging conversations in parenting: how do we support neurodivergent children without preventing them from becoming independent adults?

Drawing on Jordan's experiences raising two now-successful neurodivergent adults, the conversation examines the importance of boundaries, natural consequences, resilience and preparing children for a world that isn't always accommodating. The discussion also looks at the difference between supporting a child and overprotecting them, why gentle parenting can sometimes miss the mark, and how parents can encourage confidence without removing every challenge.

The episode also explores how undiagnosed neurodivergence shaped Jordan's own childhood, how parenting changed after understanding autism and ADHD, the role of synaptic pruning during adolescence, and why accountability, repair and healthy communication remain some of the most important parenting tools.

As always, this episode reflects personal lived experience and is intended to encourage thoughtful discussion rather than provide one-size-fits-all parenting advice.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the first episode of Two Mics, No Masking, Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein explore one of the most familiar experiences for neurodivergent people: being told you're simultaneously "too much" and "not enough."

From being labelled "too sensitive," "too loud," or "too intense" to constantly hearing "try harder" or "calm down," Katie and Jenna reflect on the impossible expectations placed on neurodivergent people. Together they explore how these messages shape identity, relationships, parenting, and the ways we learn to mask ourselves just to fit in.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In Episode Three of Clinical Misfits, Dr Mary explains about how the autonomic nervous system and the immune system provide a protective net over the entire person.

As with the endocrine system, discussed in the last episode, coordination of activity has to be very tight to pull this off. If either system is dysregulated, both are and the body is left vulnerable. Worse, the immune system may attack the nervous system causing serious, debilitating disease. Or, the nervous system may trigger exaggerated immune responses to any number of environmental stressors that are not true physical threats to the body.

The symptoms are familiar to us Clinical Misfits.

Also in this episode, Dr Mary discusses how masking autistic traits undermines the Clinical Misfit's immune system, contributing to the physical illnesses that present in late-stage burnout.

🩺 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What is masking, why do people do it, and can it actually be measured?

Chelsey Flood speaks with researcher Dr Laura Hull about the science of masking, the experiences that masking describes, and why having language for these behaviours matters. Together they explore what masking looks like, what people may be masking, and the growing body of research helping us better understand neurodivergent experiences.

In this episode:

• What masking is
• The science behind masking research
• Why people mask
• The importance of language and recognition
• Neurodivergent identity and understanding

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of mental health and masking research.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by neurodivergent business coach and former educator Megan Bonde to explore what happens when we stop trying to fit ourselves into systems that weren't designed for us.

Together they discuss burnout, productivity, entrepreneurship, and the importance of understanding how your brain works. Megan shares her journey from special education leadership to building a business around her strengths, while Becca reflects on creating flexibility in both education and work. The conversation explores delegation, self-advocacy, and why success looks different for every neurodivergent person.

In this episode:

• Recovering from burnout and survival mode
• Building a business around your strengths
• Why productivity isn't one-size-fits-all
• Delegation, support, and letting go of perfectionism
• Creating neuroinclusive workplaces and systems
• Structure, flexibility, and autonomy
• Entrepreneurship for neurodivergent people
• Redefining success beyond money and output

Guest:

Megan Bonde is a neurodivergent business coach, TEDx speaker, former speech-language pathologist, and founder of an intentional community focused on neuroinclusive living and learning.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore what it actually means to be a neurodivergent performer — from auditions and rejection sensitivity to character building, hyperfocus, and the emotional intensity of stepping on stage.

Simon reflects on his experiences as an autistic actor working across theatre, film, and television, discussing how performance became a structured means of processing emotion, identity, and self-expression. Together, Sarah and Simon unpack the realities of audition culture, masking in rehearsal rooms, and the exhausting balance between artistic authenticity and professional survival.

Featuring discussions of performances in Oliver!, The Merchant of Venice, Masters of the Air, Romeo and Juliet, Gladiator, The Dark Knight, and immersive theatre experiences like Secret Cinema, this episode explores how neurodivergent minds approach storytelling differently, and why that perspective can create unforgettable performances.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What if the difficult person, the repeated pattern, or the weight you keep carrying is not only a burden - but also a teacher?

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores the phrase “He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Buddha” - a playful twist on a familiar phrase that emerged from an ordinary pub conversation and opened up a deeper reflection on love, responsibility, meaning, boundaries and the hidden teachings inside life’s challenges..

Drawing on the teachings of Ram Dass, the Buddhist story of the Two Monks at the river, nervous-system regulation, neurodivergent masking and the From Mask to Map framework, this episode asks:

Is this mine to carry, mine to support, or mine to witness?

Ashley explores why relationships and responsibilities can feel especially heavy for neurodivergent people - not only because of the person or situation itself, but because of the interpretive work involved: decoding unspoken expectations, monitoring tone and body language, absorbing emotional atmospheres, replaying conversations, masking while caring, and trying to work out what was meant rather than what was said.

This episode also looks at how challenges can become information rather than evidence of failure. A meltdown, a trigger, a conflict, a repeated pattern or a moment of overwhelm may reveal a boundary, a sensory need, an old role, a place of exhaustion, or a part of ourselves asking for care.

Without spiritualising harm or glorifying suffering, Ashley invites a more nuanced question:

Where is the Buddha in this?

The episode closes with The Path, the Pack and the Teacher, a guided practice for exploring what you are carrying, what may not be yours, and what wisdom might be ready to travel forward with you.

Mindful Mondays is part of The Neurodivergent Experience on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Find Ashley’s longer meditations, Yoga Nidras and Bedtime Alchemy stories on Insight Timer by searching Ashley Dupuy.

Ashley is also putting together the particulars of her From Mask to Map coaching cohort beginning in September. More details will be on her website soon, but for now, you can register your interest by emailing integrativeiom@gmail.com.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected:

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to This Week in Autistic Culture!

This week marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network as our weekly roundup evolves into a Sunday magazine podcast and newsletter that explores the stories, conversations, and ideas shaping Autistic culture.

This week we’re discussing the FIFA World Cup, Taylor Swift, SZA’s autism diagnosis, the latest developments in autism research, and, of course, bringing you another fantastic week of podcasts from across the network.

🎧 Start Here: Autistic Culture Radio

📻 On Air This Week:

Monday 13th July:

Theatrically Authentic – Episode 4: Committing to the Bit

Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore what it actually means to be a neurodivergent performer and committing to the bit — from auditions and rejection sensitivity to character building, hyperfocus, and the emotional intensity of stepping on stage.

Mindful Mondays with Ashley Dupuy:

Ashley returns with another mindful reflection and guided meditation to help neurodivergent listeners begin the week with intention and regulation.

Tuesday 14th July:

Drinking to Mask and Unmask - Episode 3: Masking Is Real

Chelsey Flood speaks with researcher Dr Laura Hull about the science of masking, the experiences that masking describes, and why having language for these behaviours matters

Regulation Station – Episode 4: Work the Way You Are

Becca Engle is joined by neurodivergent business coach and former educator Megan Bonde to explore what happens when we stop trying to fit ourselves into systems that weren’t designed for us.

Wednesday 15th July:

Clinical Misfits - Episode 3: Exaggerated Immune Responses

Dr Mary explains how the autonomic nervous system and the immune system provide a protective net over the entire person.

NEW SHOW - Two Mics No Masking - Episode 1: You’re Too Much / You’re Not Enough

In the first episode of Two Mics, No Masking, Katie Scott and Jenna Goldstein explore one of the most familiar experiences for neurodivergent people: being told you’re simultaneously “too much” and “not enough.”

Thursday 16th July:

Autistic Rant Hour – Episode 5: Exact Sciences: Or Are They?

Exact Sciences are things folks who consider themselves rational and logical assume can be trusted. And they would be, but scientists are only human, and some of them aren’t even autistic, gasp!

The Neurodivergent Experience - Episode 119

Jordan James and Simon Scott return for a conversation about the Neurodivergent Experience!

Friday 17th July:

Hot Topic Friday - A new discussion from The Neurodivergent Experience team, tackling a fresh topic from the world of neurodivergence.

Collecting Fish – Episode 4: The Future of Fishkeeping

In the final episode of this series of Collecting Fish, James Hepworth reflects on the current state of the aquarium hobby. From online education and captive breeding to social media, consumerism, and sustainability, this episode explores both the strengths and contradictions of modern fishkeeping.

📚 From the Archive - Saturday 18th July:

Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind – Apple is Autistic

Rewind with an Autistic Culture Podcast classic, as we re-run Apple is Autistic, exploring how Steve Jobs’ Autistic traits shaped Apple’s revolutionary success

Please rate, share and review our shows, as it helps them grow and reach more people! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this rewind episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP uncover the Autistic traits and cultural legacy of 18th-century poet Emily Dickinson.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• How Dickinson’s obsessive love of reading and writing reflects classic Autistic special interests.
• Why her refusal to conform to gender norms and social expectations marks her as a cultural rebel.
• The significance of publishing only 10 poems in her lifetime while leaving behind a vast body of work that transformed literature.
• How her credo, “Tell all the Truth but tell it slant,” resonates with Autistic communication styles and honesty.
• Dickinson’s legacy of authenticity, healthy boundaries, and creative rule-breaking as a model for Autistic pride.
• Why her poetry continues to speak to Autistic readers navigating difference, resilience, and expression.

Resources:

• Her Own Society: A new reading of Emily Dickinson
• Patrick Jasper Lee on Literary Autism
• Emily’s White Dresses

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Collecting Fish, James Hepworth explores the beauty, complexity, and controversy surrounding marine aquariums — from clownfish and coral reefs to the realities of recreating an ocean ecosystem at home.

James examines:

• Reef tanks and fish-only marine systems
• Water chemistry and salinity
• Marine filtration and live rock
• Sustainable fishkeeping
• Beginner mistakes
• The emotional pull of recreating an ocean ecosystem at home.

Alongside practical advice for first-time marine hobbyists, James reflects on the ethical tensions within saltwater fishkeeping, including wild-caught fish, coral collection, environmental damage, and species unsuitable for most home aquariums.

Blending practical guidance with personal reflection, this episode explores why marine fishkeeping continues to captivate hobbyists — despite the responsibility, expense, and uncertainty that comes with it.

🐠 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss new research exploring how autistic people feel about genetic research—and why many support the science itself while remaining deeply concerned about how those discoveries could be used in the future.

The conversation explores fears around genetic screening, prenatal testing, and the possibility that autism research could shift from understanding and supporting autistic people towards preventing autistic people from existing in the first place. Jordan and Simon reflect on why trust has been damaged within the autistic community and why transparency, ethics, and meaningful involvement of autistic people are essential in shaping future research.

A passionate and thought-provoking conversation about genetics, ethics, trust, and the future of autism research.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott begin by chatting about football, late-night World Cup matches, and the challenge of following a special interest that's happening in a completely different time zone. But the conversation quickly evolves into something much bigger: our relationship with our phones.

From doom scrolling and revenge bedtime procrastination to fear of missing out (FOMO), they explore why neurodivergent brains can find it so difficult to switch off.

A funny, reflective, and surprisingly relatable episode about FOMO, special interests, sleep, and learning to be present in a world that's constantly demanding our attention.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Content warning: mentions of self-harm, suicidal ideation, eating disorders and medical gaslighting

What happens when you go to a mental health professional who has zero information about what it means when you, their patient, may be autistic?

For this episode I was joined by Rey Rissanen (pronouns: they/them). Together we will rant and tell you about the horrors of needing help with our mental health, and instead of getting it, getting misdiagnosed, gaslighted and harmed by misinformed mental health professionals, and how great it is to finally realize you’re autistic and to learn to self-advocate in the mental health setting.

Rey is an artist who creates beautiful crochet designs, including crochet stim toys and houseplants, and they’re also the one who came up with the idea for prepped.to, a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions, and you can see their beautiful illustrations of their story on our blog.

You can support Aut2Aut and its platform prepped.to on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Rey’s crochet designs: @rainbowrey.crafts and their arton Instagram
• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support my nonprofit
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the final episode of their World Cup retrospective series, Simon Scott is joined by James Hepworth and Jack Hoban to look back on the two most recent FIFA World Cups: Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022.

The trio revisit England's unforgettable run to the semi-finals in Russia, Croatia's remarkable journey to the final, France's emergence as the dominant force of a new generation, and the arrival of stars such as Kylian Mbappé on football's biggest stage. They also discuss Germany's shock group-stage exits, iconic matches including Spain vs Portugal and France vs Argentina, and the atmosphere surrounding the last traditional summer World Cup.

The conversation then turns to the unique winter World Cup in Qatar, reflecting on the tournament's unusual feel, Argentina's dramatic path to glory, Saudi Arabia's stunning upset over the eventual champions, and the fiery quarter-final between Argentina and the Netherlands. The episode culminates with a discussion of the extraordinary 2022 World Cup Final between Argentina and France, Lionel Messi's crowning achievement, Kylian Mbappé's hat-trick heroics, and where the tournament ranks among the greatest football spectacles ever seen. The series concludes with predictions for the future and anticipation for the next chapter in World Cup history.

⚽ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode, Vicki sits down with her aunt Sabrina — PhD in Theatre, lifelong arts educator, and the person who first showed her that big feelings weren't a problem to be managed but a gift to be expressed.

Sabrina spent her career creating safe containers for young people's big feelings through theater — including a production called SECRETS that addressed the AIDS crisis for teenagers in the 1980s when almost nobody else was willing to. This conversation is about what that work looked like, why it mattered, and what the arts do for people who feel everything.

It's also about what it means to have one person in your life who has known you for 45 years and never once told you that you were too much.

ABOUT SABRINA

Sabrina holds a PhD in Theatre from UC Berkeley and spent her career as an arts educator and theater director in the San Francisco Bay Area. She created educational theater productions for Kaiser Permanente including SECRETS and Nightmare on Puberty Street — work that used the stage to address the things nobody else was saying to young people. She is Vicki's chosen family.

SUPPORT THE SHOW

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it.

Hat on a Hat on a Hat (Substack): https://ahatonahatonahat.substack.com/

Donations are gratefully accepted and help keep this show going at whatever pace is sustainable.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/vickipeterson

✍️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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If you've ever struggled with procrastination, burnout, or simply need a little nudge to get started on a project, Helen and Elizabeth are here to help. In this episode, they explore how consistency, structure, and experimentation can transform creative energy into a sustainable practice, and how to stay engaged when you're feeling uninspired or overwhelmed.

Together they discuss productivity techniques, creative routines, narrative writing, and the ways art can help us process emotions and communicate experiences. They also share practical strategies for overcoming perfectionism and reconnecting with creativity when motivation is low.

In this episode:

• Using the Pomodoro Technique to tackle daunting projects
• Understanding the Zeigarnik Effect and unfinished tasks
• Narrative writing and emotional processing
• Comics and graphic storytelling as communication tools
• Moving from academic understanding to personal experience
• Creative exercises to quiet your inner critic

Resources and Links

• Helen's graphic diary archive: https://arted.online/blog/diaries/
• Graphic diary template: https://arted.online/toolbox/resource-diary-template/
• The 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/the-10-pillars-revisited-episode
• The Pomodoro Technique: https://www.pomodorotechnique.com/

Contact: creativebecomingpod@gmail.com

Support

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your GP or a relevant support service in your area.

Disclaimer

Creative Becoming is connected to Helen Shaddock's practice-based PhD, "Welcome to My Messy World": A practice-based, messy auto-ethnographic artistic exploration into multimedia storytelling as an integral method towards creative becoming.

🎨Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Sometimes the best conversations happen when nobody's masking.

Welcome to Two Mics, No Masking, a podcast exploring neurodivergence, identity, parenting, work, and everyday life through an autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network. First Episodes coming out July 15th.

Hosted by Katie Scott, founder of THE COLLECTIVE, and Jenna Goldstein, founder of ND3, the series brings together two best friends, late-identified autistic women, and parents of neurodivergent children for honest, thoughtful, and often humorous conversations about what it really means to navigate a world that doesn't always understand how our brains work.

From burnout and relationships to parenting, identity, and the systems we're constantly navigating, each episode digs beneath the surface to name what's really happening—without fixing, performing, or pretending.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by school principal Anthony Chiles for a conversation about neurodivergent students, school systems, regulation, and what children really need to thrive in educational environments.

Together they explore the increasing number of neurodivergent students entering schools, the challenges educators face in supporting diverse needs, and the importance of balancing academic expectations with nervous system regulation. Anthony shares practical examples from his school, including sensory spaces, visual supports, transition planning, and even reintroducing rest time for young learners.

The conversation also examines the role of relationships in education, debates around intervention approaches, and how schools can create environments that support both learning and wellbeing.

In this episode:

• Supporting neurodivergent students in mainstream schools
• Why regulation and learning should work together
• The impact of transitions on autistic and neurodivergent children
• Building flexibility into educational environments
• Sensory needs, classroom design, and school culture
• Technology, attention, and modern childhood
• The importance of trusted relationships in education
• Rethinking traditional approaches to behaviour and support

Guest:

Anthony Chiles is a primary school principal with more than 20 years of experience in education. He is passionate about creating flexible, supportive learning environments that meet children where they are and help them succeed.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore the intense, joyful, and sometimes complicated world of theatre fandom.

From hyperfixation and lore-sharing to stage door etiquette and parasocial relationships, the episode examines why theatre fandom resonates so deeply with neurodivergent audiences, and how musicals become systems of comfort, identity, and connection.

Sarah and Simon discuss everything from Hamilton and Beetlejuice to The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Heathers, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, and Hazbin Hotel, exploring how fandom creates both a sense of belonging and emotional intensity.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to the third edition of This Week on ACPN!

This week marks an exciting milestone for the Autistic Culture Podcast Network as we launch the very first Autistic Culture Mixtape - a new way to experience ACPN through a curated blend of music and podcast programming. Alongside the Mixtape, we’ve got another packed week of new episodes exploring theatre, education, creativity, football, neurodivergent life, fishkeeping, healthcare and more. Whether you’re catching up on your favourite shows or discovering ACPN for the first time, this newsletter is your guide to everything happening across the network.

Let’s dive in!

🎧 Start Here: The Autistic Culture Mixtape • July 2026

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0yJ56B3GcrqrlOMS537ve1?si=JxKnd3u_QS6andwrN8yHOA

📻 This Week’s Programmes:

Monday 6th July:

Theatrically Authentic – Episode 3: Theatre Kid Energy - Subscribe to Theatrically Authentic

Mindful Mondays with Ashley Dupuy

Ashley returns with another mindful reflection and guided meditation to help neurodivergent listeners begin the week with intention and regulation.

Tuesday 7th July:

Creative Becoming – Episode 3: Sticking With It -Subscribe to Creative becoming

Regulation Station – Episode 3: Holding Space You Don’t Inhabit: Supporting Neurodivergent Students - Subscribe to Regulation Station

Wednesday 8th July:

Hyperfocus FC – Episode 4: The 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cup - Subscribe to Hyperfocus FC

The Neurocomplex Creative– Episode 2: Found Family, Big Feelings - Subscribe to The Neurocomplex creative

Thursday 9th July:

Autistic Rant Hour – Episode 4: Mental Health Services - Subscribe to The Autistic Rant Hour

The Neurodivergent Experience - Episode 118 - Subscribe to NDE

Friday 10th July:

Hot Topic Friday - Subscribe to NDE

Collecting Fish– Episode 3: An Ocean In Your Living Room - Subscribe to Collecting Fish

📚 From the Archive - Saturday 11th July

Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind – Emily Dickinson is Autistic - Subscribe to ACP Rewind

Please rate, share and review our shows, as it helps them grow and reach more people! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to the Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind, starting with welcome to Autistica!

Whether you are Autistic yourself or love someone who is, your hosts, Dr. Angela Kingdon (the Linguistic Autistic) and Licensed Psychological Practitioner Matt Lowry, invite you to immerse yourself in the language, values, traditions, norms, and identity of Autistica.

This is more than a podcast. It’s a celebration of Autistic pride, community, and culture!

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Freshwater fishkeeping is where most hobbyists begin — but for many, it becomes a lifelong obsession.

In this episode of Collecting Fish, James Hepworth explores the beauty, accessibility, and creativity of freshwater aquariums, describing them as “a river in your own living room.”

The episode explores:

• Planted aquariums
• Natural aquascaping
• Tropical, coldwater, and brackish systems
• Fish compatibility
• Water chemistry
• Feeding
• Creating aquariums that replicate real ecosystems.

Alongside practical beginner advice, James discusses the ethics of modern fishkeeping, including wild-caught fish, invasive species, unsuitable aquarium species, and the importance of designing environments that prioritise animal welfare.

Blending education, opinion, and personal experience, this episode explores why freshwater aquariums remain one of the most creative, rewarding, and accessible areas of the fishkeeping hobby.

🐠 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott is joined by neurodivergent mentor Sophie James to discuss a worrying trend emerging in schools and online: the word "autistic" being used as an insult.

Drawing on Sophie's experiences mentoring young neurodivergent people, they explore why many autistic children and teenagers are now reluctant to disclose their diagnosis to friends, fearing judgment, exclusion, or ridicule. Together, they unpack how social media, outdated stereotypes, and deficit-based portrayals of autism may be shaping the way young people view the autistic community.

A passionate and thought-provoking conversation about stigma, language, identity, and why changing the way we talk about autism matters just as much as raising awareness.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Have you ever gone to the doctor with some symptoms and had them not find anything wrong with you? We've all run into medical staff who don't know we were autistic or what that even meant, never suspected EDS, POTS, ME, endometriosis or autoimmune conditions. They either dismissed us right off or ran a battery of tests on us. But in the end, the conclusion was the same: There doesn't seem to be anything medically wrong with you.

For this episode I am joined by Simo_tier (pronouns: it/they), so we can rant about some of these frustrating stories that literally take years off our lives.

Simo_tier is a multi-media artist and activist, influenced by its lived reality as a disabled, Indigenous, agender, white, gay, AuDHD femme. It is deeply passionate about lifting up and supporting QTBIPoC voices and projects, as well as breaking down barriers to create a community based on Disability Justice and reformative change. If you want to read about Simo_tier’s activism (in German), check out its website https://vamky.de/ where you can also find a podcast (also in German) about disabilities and exclusion by society and inside the community. If you want to keep up to date with events it organizes, check out Instagram @simo_tier

You can support Aut2Aut on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop. This will help prepped.to go on providing a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support prepped.to
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@]gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott is joined by neurodivergent mentor and advocate Sophie James for an inspiring conversation about building a career that works with your brain rather than against it. From late diagnosis and school struggles to launching her own mentoring business, Sophie shares how understanding herself changed the direction of her life.

Together, Simon and Sophie explore the realities of young neurodivergent entrepreneurship, why traditional career paths don't work for everyone, and the value of creating work that aligns with your strengths, interests, and energy. They discuss emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), rejection sensitivity, finding community, and the importance of moving beyond deficit-based views of neurodivergence.

A thoughtful, hopeful, and practical conversation about finding your own path, redefining success, and creating a working life that truly fits you.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Hyperfocus FC, Simon Scott is joined by James Hepworth and Jack Hoban to revisit the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil — a tournament packed with unforgettable goals, dramatic upsets, and one of the most shocking results in football history.

From James Rodríguez's stunning breakout performances and Robin van Persie's iconic flying header to Costa Rica's unlikely run, England's disappointing campaign, and Germany's historic triumph, the trio look back on a World Cup that perfectly combined spectacle, emotion, and chaos. Featuring discussions on Neymar's rise, Spain's collapse, the atmosphere of football's spiritual home, and the infamous 7-1 semi-final between Germany and Brazil, this episode explores why Brazil 2014 remains one of the most memorable tournaments ever played.

⚽ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In Episode Two of Clinical Misfits, Dr. Mary describes each of the major endocrine (hormone) systems of the body and the myriad ways that dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system can affect their function, and vice versa.

She explains how the communications among a person's thoughts, senses, emotions and experiences affect and are affected by a person's hormonal balance at any time. When the autonomic system is dysregulated, the endocrine systems cannot function normally. This can result in all the signs and symptom of hormone gland disease, when the glands themselves might be completely healthy.

The result is true illness that cannot be identified using standard medical testing.

🩺 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by author and advocate Mitch Grace to discuss growing up autistic, receiving an autism diagnosis during high school, and navigating education from childhood through to postgraduate study.

Mitch reflects on the challenges of social communication, feeling different from his peers, and the mixed emotions that came with finally understanding why certain aspects of life had always felt harder. Together, Becca and Mitch explore the educational environments that helped them thrive, the importance of accommodations, and how autistic students can advocate for the support they need.

In this episode:

• Receiving an autism diagnosis and what it changed
• Social communication, friendships and understanding yourself
• The impact of specialist schools and smaller class sizes
• What makes an educational environment truly inclusive
• College accommodations and disability support services
• Navigating higher education as an autistic student
• The importance of self-advocacy and asking for support
• Why autistic-led advice and lived experience matter

Guest:

Mitch Grace is the author of Growing Up with Asperger's: Lessons Learned and Shareable Wisdom, where he shares practical advice and personal reflections drawn from his experiences growing up autistic.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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How many of us spend our lives searching for the one thing that will finally make everything easier?

Musician Rosalie James joins Chelsey Flood to discuss addiction, self-understanding, and the hope that the next solution might be the one that changes everything. Together they explore the appeal of quick fixes, the realities of living with ongoing challenges, and the search for ways to make life feel more manageable.

In this episode:

• Addiction and coping strategies
• The search for self-understanding
• Hope, change, and personal growth
• Finding ways to navigate life's challenges

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of alcohol use and mental health.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Theatrically Authentic, Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott continue their exploration of why theatre can feel both regulating and overwhelming for neurodivergent people.

From rehearsal rooms and tech week to previews, press nights, and backstage rituals, the episode examines the hidden systems that keep live theatre running, alongside the emotional and sensory demands placed on the people inside them — where reading the room isn’t just a skill, but survival.

Featuring discussions of Wicked, Les Misérables, The Play That Goes Wrong, Everybody's Talking About Jamie, and experiences from both backstage and onstage life, this episode shines a spotlight on the invisible labour that makes theatre magic possible.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to the second edition of This Week on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Each week, we’ll guide you through what’s new across the network, highlight upcoming episodes, and help you discover new autistic-led podcasts and creators.

This week we’re celebrating an incredible first week of the network, reflecting on our launch party, and looking ahead to a packed schedule of new episodes covering theatre, education, addiction, football, healthcare, fishkeeping, neurodivergent life, and more.

📻 Tap any show below to listen and subscribe.

Please rate, share and review our shows, as it helps them grow and reach more people! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Monday 29th June:

Theatrically Authentic – Episode 2: Predictably Chaotic

• Sarah Atherton Knight and Simon Scott explore why theatre can feel both regulating and overwhelming for neurodivergent people, sharing stories from rehearsal rooms, tech weeks, previews, and life behind the curtain.

Subscribe to Theatrically Authentic

Mindful Mondays with Ashley Dupuy

• Ashley returns with another mindful reflection and guided meditation to help neurodivergent listeners begin the week with intention and regulation.

Tuesday 30th June:

• Drinking to Mask and Unmask – Episode 2: Looking for the Perfect Fix

Chelsey Flood speaks with musician Rosalie James about addiction, recovery, creativity, quick fixes, and finding solutions that actually work for you.

Subscribe to Drinking To Mask and Unmask

Regulation Station – Episode 2: Finding the Right School Too Late

• Becca Engle explores the transition from structured education into university life with Mitch Grace, discussing support systems, independence, and navigating higher education as a neurodivergent student.

Subscribe to Regulation Station

Wednesday 1st July:

Hyperfocus FC – Episode 3: The 2014 World Cup

• Simon Scott, James Hepworth, and Jack Hoban revisit Brazil 2014, discussing iconic goals, unforgettable moments, Germany’s 7-1 victory over Brazil, and one of football’s most dramatic tournaments.

Subscribe to Hyperfocus FC

Clinical Misfits – Episode 2: Endocrine Dysregulation

• Dr Mary Sims examines the relationship between the autonomic nervous system and the body’s hormone systems, helping listeners better understand the connections between neurodivergence, health, and regulation.

Subscribe to Clinical Misfits

Thursday 2nd July:

Autistic Rant Hour – Episode 3: Medical Gaslighting

• Dr Gal Shkolnick tackles one of the most frustrating experiences many neurodivergent people face: medical gaslighting. A cathartic conversation about healthcare, chronic conditions, and being dismissed by the systems meant to support us.

Subscribe to The Autistic Rant Hour

The Neurodivergent Experience - Episode 117

• Sophie James joins Simon Scott for a conversation about advocacy, coaching, young neurodivergent people, and building a career that works with your nervous system rather than against it.

Subscribe to NDE

Friday 3rd July:

• Hot Topic Friday - A new discussion from The Neurodivergent Experience team, tackling a fresh topic from the world of neurodivergence.

Subscribe to NDE

Collecting Fish – Episode 2: A River in Your Living Room

• James Hepworth explores the creativity, beauty, ethics, and accessibility of freshwater aquariums, explaining how fishkeeping can become an immersive ecosystem-building hobby.

Subscribe to Collecting Fish

Saturday 4th July:

• Autistic Culture Podcast Rewind – Welcome to Autistica

Subscribe to ACP Rewind

Independent Podcasters Day

This week, we also celebrate Independent Podcasters Day and the incredible creators, networks, and communities helping independent voices thrive. Independent podcasting allows diverse stories and perspectives to reach audiences without being filtered through corporate gatekeepers.

Thank you for joining us for this second edition of This Week on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network. We’ll be back next week with another roundup of everything new on the network!

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss a growing trend in the United States where families are paying tens of thousands of dollars for unapproved stem cell treatments that claim to help autistic children.

Drawing on a recent investigation by The Guardian, they unpack the science behind these therapies, the lack of convincing evidence that they work, and the serious ethical concerns surrounding clinics marketing expensive, experimental procedures to desperate families. The conversation also explores the role of public figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in legitimising unproven treatments and how misinformation can spread when hope outweighs evidence.

A passionate and thought-provoking discussion about ethics, misinformation, autism research, and why protecting vulnerable families starts with honest conversations and better support.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Everybody hates bureaucracy. So many of the things we need to survive entail torturously collecting documents, attempting to upload them to websites that may or may not work, filling forms with mystery fields, and horror of horrors, calling the authorities on the phone.

I recently founded Aut2Aut, a nonprofit that provides free digital platforms and content by and for the autistic community, and believe you me, the German authorities weren’t exactly going out of their ways to make it a seamless, easy process. In the meantime, I’ve also had some adventures in the welfare system.

So if you’ve ever stood powerless in the face of the powers that be, a half-filled form in one hand, and a phone that’s been on hold for the past 30 minutes in the other, and you want to feel less alone with your experience, or learn how to start a nonprofit in Germany, this is the episode for you.

You can support Aut2Aut on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop. This will help prepped.to go on providing a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions.

Mentioned in this episode:

• FrauenLoop, free tech education and network for anyone who identifies as a woman
• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support my nonprofit
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott shares some exciting personal news — he's engaged!

What begins as a conversation about the proposal quickly evolves into a wider discussion about milestones, traditions, social expectations, and what happens when neurodivergent people choose to do things their own way.

Simon reflects on planning a proposal that worked for both him and his fiancé, from accommodating anxiety around surprises to creating an experience that felt meaningful, comfortable, and authentic. Jordan shares his thoughts on celebrations, weddings, family expectations, and why so many social traditions seem to exist simply because “that’s how it’s always been done.”

A funny, heartfelt, and deeply relatable conversation about love, milestones, and creating a life that works for you rather than the expectations of everyone else.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Hyperfocus FC, Simon Scott is joined by James Hepworth and Jack Hoban to revisit the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa — the first World Cup ever held on African soil.

From the sound of the vuvuzelas and the iconic tournament soundtrack to Spain's historic triumph, Ghana's unforgettable run, Diego Forlán's brilliance, and England's frustrating campaign, the trio explore a tournament that felt unlike any other. Featuring discussions on the Jabulani ball, emerging stars like Thomas Müller and Mesut Özil, the infamous Lampard "ghost goal", Luis Suárez's controversial handball against Ghana, and a World Cup Final remembered as much for its aggression as Andrés Iniesta's winning goal, this episode looks back on a tournament that helped shape modern football.

⚽ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode, Helen and Elizabeth focus on the first steps of starting a new creative endeavour. Elizabeth shares her search for a creative "cave space", while Helen offers practical advice for sticking with a creative practice when you're still trying to find your groove.

Together they explore the role of repetition, routine, and structure in creative work, discussing how frameworks can support creativity rather than restrict it. From graphic diaries and haiku writing to daily habits and artistic rituals, this episode examines how small, consistent actions can help creativity flourish.

In this episode:

• Using SMART goals to focus creative projects
• Repetition and pattern-making in art
• The work of Yayoi Kusama and Nnena Kalu
• Haiku as a framework for daily reflection
• Letting go of perfectionism and self-editing
• Balancing accountability, routine, and obsession

Resources and Links

• Helen's graphic diary archive: https://arted.online/blog/diaries/
• Graphic diary template: https://arted.online/toolbox/resource-diary-template/
• Helen's daily haiku archive: https://arted.online/haiku/
• The 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/the-10-pillars-revisited-episode

Contact: creativebecomingpod@gmail.com

Support

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your GP or a relevant support service in your area.

Disclaimer

Creative Becoming is connected to Helen Shaddock's practice-based PhD, "Welcome to My Messy World": A practice-based, messy auto-ethnographic artistic exploration into multimedia storytelling as an integral method towards creative becoming.

🎨Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when the person you've spent years trying to be turns out to be built around survival rather than authenticity?

In this episode, Chelsey Flood is joined by Bre Ransome to explore late diagnosis, drinking culture, and the unsettling experience of discovering that many traits you thought were part of your personality were actually coping strategies. Together they discuss identity, self-understanding, and what happens when long-held assumptions begin to unravel.

In this episode:

• Late diagnosis and self-discovery
• Alcohol and social expectations
• Coping strategies and identity
• Rethinking the past through a neurodivergent lens

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of alcohol use, late diagnosis, and mental health.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this solo intro episode, host Vicki Peterson introduces herself, the show, and the question she's sitting with this season: how do I create again — in a way that actually honors who I am — after spending decades doing it in a way that was slowly taking me apart?

Vicki is a screenwriter, educator, late-diagnosed autistic person, and recovering perfectionist living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and its many comorbidities. This episode is her origin story — the Hollywood years, the diagnoses, the collapse, the grief, and the decision to rebuild. Out loud. Imperfectly. On generator power.

It's also a note on process: why this show uses scripted monologues alongside interviews, why AI tools are part of the workflow, and why the best this host can do today is enough.

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Lindsey Mackereth — therapist, researcher, and founder of the neurocomplexity framework. The term "neuro complex" comes from her work.

Lindsey's Substack: https://lindseymackereth.substack.com/

The Ehlers-Danlos Society — for more information on EDS and its comorbidities:

EDS Society: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/

Hat on a Hat on a Hat (Substack): https://ahatonahatonahat.substack.com/

SUPPORT THE SHOW

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it.

Hat on a Hat on a Hat (Substack): https://ahatonahatonahat.substack.com/

Donations are gratefully accepted and help keep this show going at whatever pace is sustainable.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/vickipeterson

✍️Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the inaugural episode of Theatrically Authentic, hosts Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore why theatre feels so magnetic to neurodivergent people — both onstage and backstage.

From “performance brains” and “technical brains” to masking, hyperfocus, burnout, and the emotional intensity of live performance, this episode unpacks the unique relationship between neurodivergence and the theatre industry.

Sarah and Simon share their own journeys into theatre, discuss how working in the industry shaped their understanding of themselves, and reflect on the strange balance theatre creates between regulation and overwhelm.

Featuring discussions of Hamilton, Shakespeare performance, backstage life, and the emotional reality of making art collaboratively, this episode sets the stage for the rest of the series.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the first episode of this Hyperfocus FC mini-series, Simon Scott is joined by James Hepworth and Jack Hoban to revisit the 2006 FIFA World Cup — a tournament many fans consider the last truly classic World Cup.

From iconic kits, legendary players, and unforgettable matches to Germany's incredible atmosphere as host nation, the trio share their memories of a summer that helped define their love of football. Featuring discussions on Zidane's final tournament, Brazil's galáctico squad, England's Golden Generation, the Battle of Nuremberg, and one of the most famous World Cup Finals ever played, this episode is a nostalgic celebration of a tournament that still feels bigger than football.

⚽ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to Creative Becoming, a podcast for the creative and the curious. If you're ready to swap doomscrolling for doodling, this is the show for you!

In this debut episode, hosts Helen and Elizabeth explore the idea of "creative becoming" and how art and storytelling can help us better understand ourselves. Helen shares her experience as a late-diagnosed autistic artist using graphic diaries to navigate identity, while Elizabeth reflects on using creativity to explore a major life milestone.

Together they discuss narrative identity, autistic culture, creative practice, and the importance of creating safe spaces where creativity can flourish.

In this episode:

• What "creative becoming" means
• Graphic diaries and self-discovery
• Narrative identity and storytelling
• Creativity through an autistic cultural lens
• Creating spaces that support creative exploration

Resources and Links

• Helen's graphic diary archive: https://arted.online/blog/diaries/
• Graphic diary template: https://arted.online/toolbox/resource-diary-template/
• The 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/the-10-pillars-revisited-episode

Contact: creativebecomingpod@gmail.com

Support

If you are experiencing distress, please contact your GP or a relevant support service in your area.

Disclaimer

Creative Becoming is connected to Helen Shaddock's practice-based PhD, "Welcome to My Messy World": A practice-based, messy auto-ethnographic artistic exploration into multimedia storytelling as an integral method towards creative becoming.

🎨 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In the opening episode of Collecting Fish, host James Hepworth shares his personal journey into fishkeeping — from childhood memories of exploring rock pools on family holidays to building his first aquarium at just five years old.

Blending nostalgia with practical beginner advice, James explores what it really takes to start an aquarium for the first time, including:

• Choosing the right tank
• Understanding filtration and the nitrogen cycle
• Setting up plants and hardscape
• Selecting beginner-friendly fish
• Avoiding common early mistakes.

James discusses the deeper appeal of fishkeeping for neurodivergent people, discussing the calming effects of aquariums, the connection to nature, and the value of slower, more mindful hobbies in an increasingly fast-paced world.

Part beginner’s guide and part personal reflection, this episode is an honest introduction to the rewards, responsibilities, and emotional connection behind the aquarium hobby.

🐠 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Dr Mary Sims is an AuDHD (autistic with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and some overlap with obsessive compulsive disorder) who has both dealt with neurodivergent patients in crisis and been one herself.

In Episode One of Clinical Misfits, Dr Mary describes in detail a unique way to identify neurodivergent people who are approaching or in the middle of burnout, who she calls Clinical Misfits. She emphasizes a gestalt approach to diagnosis, looking for patterns, in true autistic style, rather than focusing on specific organ systems, or parts of the body, and the afflictions thereof.

The episode recommends a thorough examination of all parts of a person's life, looking for numerous vague symptoms, in many different categories, that have characteristics commonly seen in neurodivergent people in crisis. Below are links to materials that may be helpful.

Clinical Tools

List of Podcasts that are helpful to neurodivergent people facing burnout:

• Autistic Culture Podcast
• Beyond Six Seconds
• Meet My Autistic Brain
• Divergent Conversations/ Divergent Insights

Webpages dedicated to caring for neurodivergent people in affirming, non-ableist ways: Allbrainsbelong.org

If you know of other resources, please contact Dr Mary: maredog3d@icloud.com

🩺 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Regulation Station, Becca Engle is joined by Jillian Eisloeffel, founder of Bobby's World: Profound Autism and parent to an 11-year-old child with high support needs.

Together they discuss caregiving, self-injurious behaviours, medical advocacy, and the realities of supporting a child with complex needs. Jillian shares her family's experiences navigating crisis periods, adapting their home for safety, advocating for medical answers, and finding ways to regulate herself while caring for her son.

The conversation also explores the challenges families face accessing support, the importance of community, and why understanding the full spectrum of autistic experiences matters.

In this episode:

• Parenting a child with profound autism
• Self-injurious behaviours and medical advocacy
• Why caregiver regulation matters
• Creating safe environments at home
• The realities of school, healthcare, and support systems
• Finding community and support as a caregiver
• Balancing privacy, dignity, and advocacy online
• Practical advice for families navigating difficult seasons

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of self-injurious behaviour, caregiver stress, medical trauma, family challenges, and disability support systems.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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You know how they tell you that websites and apps follow your every move and then design their product to get the most out of you?

And you know how each and every time a digital product gets updated it gets worse and harder to use? How can both of these be true?

Well, let me get you in on a Product Analytics secret: It’s true that most websites and apps collect your data, but most of them just let it rot in dashboards nobody looks at, and release major features and redesigns without performing any mathematically rigorous analysis of the users’ response. This is only one of many reasons why it’s so hard to be autistic in Tech. My Product Analytics ex-colleague, Carolina (pronouns: she/they), will join me on this episode to rant with all our accumulated frustrations about the sad sad fact that most digital product providers really don’t care about your data, and also just in general about being autistic in Tech.

You can find Carolina on Instagram @millenialspinster

Language note: The words Shit and Bullshit are being said a few times in the episode.

You can support Aut2Aut on Betterplace and Gofundme, or buy our #ActuallyAutistic designs in our print-on-demand shop. This will help prepped.to go on providing a platform for autistic folks to share locations’ sensory info and service instructions.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Aut2Aut, the nonprofit I founded, providing free platforms and content by and for autistic people
• prepped.to is the website I created where autistic folks can upload and consult sensory info and service instructions about places, so folks can prep and script before going there
• How to support my nonprofit
• Theme music composed and produced by Lir Lutau Shahar (pronouns: he/fae/sea): YouTube, Soundcloud. For collaborations: lutaoshzh@gmail.com
• Follow Dr. Gal Schkolnik on LinkedIn, Mastodon or Tumblr

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this final meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club Season One, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Simon Scott, co-founder of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, co-host of The Neurodivergent Experience, and producer of this series.

Simon shares his own journey of identifying as neurodivergent, a story marked by missed signs, school struggles, identity, and years of feeling like an alien.

Together, Angela and Simon reflect on Simon’s work in podcasting — from co-hosting The Neurodivergent Experience to creating The Late Diagnosis Club — and how storytelling can create connection, validation, and community for neurodivergent people.

In the final part of the episode, they discuss the wider Autistic Culture Podcast Network, what they are building beyond this series, and what listeners can expect next.

This is a conversation about connection, self-understanding, and closing a season — while opening the door to what comes next.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Simon Scott — Podcast producer, co-founder of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, and co-host of The Neurodivergent Experience

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Late identification and early missed signs
• School experiences and feeling “different”
• Simon’s podcasting journey
• Building The Late Diagnosis Club
• Community, belonging, and shared experience
• Looking ahead to Season Two and the Autistic Culture Podcast Network
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Simon Scott and reflects on the journey of The Late Diagnosis Club — a space created for connection, understanding, and shared experience.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Simon’s Story

Simon describes a childhood marked by missed signs and environments that didn’t fit his needs.

School brought challenges that were often misunderstood, leading him to internalise the idea that he was the problem.

Without a framework for Autism, he learned to adapt and cope, carrying those patterns into adulthood.

Over time, through reflection and exposure to neurodivergent experiences, Simon began to understand himself differently, leading to his identification as Autistic.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Missed signs: Early indicators of neurodivergence not recognised
• School experience: Environments that didn’t meet his needs
• Internalised blame: Believing struggles were personal failings
• Adaptation: Coping without knowing why things were difficult
• Podcasting journey: From co-hosting The Neurodivergent Experience to producing The Late Diagnosis Club
• Community: Finding connection through listening and participation
• Reflection: Looking back with a new perspective
• The Autistic Culture Podcast Network: Expanding beyond one podcast into a wider platform
• What’s next: New shows, more voices, and continued community building

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You can feel different without knowing why.
• Understanding yourself can change how you see your past.
• You are not alone in your experiences.
• Storytelling can be a powerful tool for connection and validation.
• Community can create a sense of belonging.
• There is no single way to be Autistic.

📌 Notice Board

• The Neurodivergent Experience on Spotify

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Parenting shouldn't require a law degree.

Welcome to Regulation Station, a podcast helping parents and carers navigate neurodivergent childhood with confidence and clarity. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Becca Engle, the series explores evaluations, accommodations, IEPs, advocacy, education, regulation, and the realities of raising neurodivergent children.

Through conversations with parents, educators, and professionals, Regulation Station turns overwhelming systems into practical, actionable guidance.

🚂 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Please take your seats — the performance is about to begin!

Welcome to Theatrically Authentic, a behind-the-scenes theatre podcast exploring musical theatre, performance, fandom, and neurodivergent creativity through an autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Autistic theatre-makers Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott, the series dives into the emotional and structural realities of theatre-making in an industry built around unspoken rules. From backstage culture and audition masking to hyperfixation, character analysis, autistic-coded roles, and the grief of closing night, each episode explores why theatre resonates so deeply with neurodivergent minds.

Whether you're a performer, technician, creative, or lifelong theatre kid, Theatrically Authentic invites you into a space where a love of theatre and the realities of neurodivergence can finally take centre stage.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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There's a whole world beneath the surface.

Welcome to Collecting Fish, a podcast exploring fishkeeping, aquariums, and hobby collecting through curiosity, creativity, and lived experience. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by James Hepworth, the series dives into the fascination of building thriving underwater ecosystems at home. From tropical fish and aquatic plants to tank design, maintenance, and the joy of collecting, each episode celebrates the hobby and the people who love it. Whether you're an experienced fish keeper, new to the hobby, or simply curious about the world behind the glass, Collecting Fish invites you to dive in.

🐠 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Football is never just football.

Welcome to Hyperfocus FC, a podcast exploring football history, culture, nostalgia, and obsession through an Autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Simon Scott, James Hepworth, and Jack Hoban, the series revisits iconic tournaments, legendary players, unforgettable moments, and the stories that shaped the world's most popular sport. Whether you're a lifelong supporter, a tournament traditionalist, or someone who can still recite a World Cup squad from twenty years ago, Hyperfocus FC celebrates football and the culture that surrounds it.

⚽ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Creativity isn't a talent. It's a practice.

Welcome to Creative Becoming, a podcast exploring creativity, identity, storytelling, and autistic culture. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Helen, a late-diagnosed autistic artist, and Elizabeth, a neurotypical librarian, the series offers practical tools, strategies, and encouragement for anyone looking to develop a more creative life.

Together they explore creative habits, self-expression, artistic confidence, and the challenges that often accompany the creative process. Whether you're autistic or not, experienced or just beginning, Creative Becoming is an invitation to discover what creativity can mean for you.

🎨 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Creating again, on generator power.

Welcome to The Neurocomplex Creative, a podcast exploring creativity, burnout, recovery, and the realities of making art when your brain and body don't always cooperate. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Vicki Peterson—screenwriter, educator, late-diagnosed autistic person, and proud everything bagel—the series is a living record of rebuilding a creative life after burnout and finding sustainable ways to create. Through honest conversations with writers, artists, educators, and other creatives, The Neurocomplex Creative explores accommodation, inspiration, creative practice, and what it means to keep making things when the traditional advice no longer works.

✍️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Some things just deserve a rant!

Welcome to The Autistic Rant Hour, a podcast exploring the frustrations, injustices, and absurdities of living in an allistic world through an autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Dr Gal Schkolnik (They/Them), founder of Aut2Aut, the series combines passionate discussion, lived experience, and unapologetic autistic honesty. Each episode tackles a different source of frustration, from social expectations and accessibility barriers to systemic inequalities and everyday misunderstandings.

Whether you're looking for validation, solidarity, or simply a place where someone finally says what you're thinking, The Autistic Rant Hour invites you to rant, reflect, and infodump alongside the community.

📢 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What if healthcare understood neurodivergence differently?

Welcome to Clinical Misfits, a podcast exploring neurodivergent health, medicine, and clinical understanding through an autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Dr Mary Sims, a neurodivergent neurologist who is AuDHD herself, the series combines lived experience and medical expertise to explore the physical, neurological, and systemic realities of neurodivergence.

From burnout and the autonomic nervous system to hormones, genetics, and immune system interactions, Clinical Misfits challenges assumptions and offers new ways of understanding neurodivergent health.

🩺 Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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What happens when coping becomes survival?

Welcome to Drinking to Mask and Unmask, a podcast exploring autism, masking, addiction, and recovery through an autistic cultural lens. Part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

Hosted by Chelsey Flood, the series examines the strategies autistic people develop to navigate a world that often demands conformity, and the costs those strategies can carry over time. Through conversations with researchers, professionals, and people with lived experience, the show explores masking, substance use, creativity, identity, and what it means to find healthier ways of existing in the world.

🎙️ Subscribe now to hear future episodes.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Learn more about the network at AutisticCulturePodcastNetwork.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to the very first edition of This Week on the Autistic Culture Podcast Network!

Each week, this short update acts as our version of the old TV Guide: a quick way to find out what’s new across the network, discover shows you might have missed, and keep up with the incredible work being created by Autistic podcasters around the world.

Most weeks, we’ll simply let you know which episodes are arriving in your feed. But this week is a little different.

This week, we’re launching the Autistic Culture Podcast Network!

After more than eighteen months of planning, hundreds of submissions, countless conversations, and a huge amount of work behind the scenes, we’re thrilled to introduce the first nine original shows joining the network alongside our existing programmes. These first nine shows will always be special.

📻New Shows Launching This WeekTap any show title below to explore and subscribe to the individual podcasts.Drinking to Mask and Unmask

Hosted by Chelsey Flood, this series explores the relationship between autism, masking, alcohol, addiction, and survival through lived experience and compassionate conversations.

Clinical Misfits

Dr Mary Sims combines medical expertise and lived experience to examine neurodivergent health, burnout, and the systems that shape our wellbeing.

Autistic Rant Hour

Dr Gal Schkolnik offers sharp, funny, deeply informed discussions about bureaucracy, healthcare, accessibility, and all the systems that make Autistic people ask, “Who designed this?”

The Neurocomplex Creative

Vicky Peterson explores creativity, burnout, chronic illness, and what it means to keep creating in a world that often demands too much from neurodivergent people.

Creative Becoming

Helen Shaddock and Elizabeth Moffett reflect on identity, creativity, self-understanding, and building a life that fits who you actually are.

Hyperfocus FC

Simon Scott, James Hepworth, and Jack Hoban revisit iconic World Cups and the culture surrounding football’s biggest stage through an unmistakably neurodivergent lens.

Collecting Fish

Hosted by James Hepworth, this joyful celebration of fishkeeping proves that special interests are contagious—in the very best way.

Theatrically Authentic

Sarah Atherton-Knight and Simon Scott explore theatre, neurodivergence, creativity, and the realities of building a life in the performing arts.

Regulation Station

Becca Engle provides practical, neuroaffirming guidance for families, educators, advocates, and anyone supporting neurodivergent young people.

Listen Ad-Free with Autistic Culture Plus

Want bonus content, early access, and ad-free listening across the entire network?

Join Autistic Culture Plus to support autistic creators and help us commission even more shows from our community.

Join Autistic Culture +

Have a Show Idea?The Autistic Culture Podcast Network is always looking for new voices and new perspectives.

If you have an idea for a podcast grounded in Autistic lived experience, culture, identity, advocacy, creativity, or special interests, we’d love to hear from you.

Submit Your Idea

🌐 Visitwww.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Nyck Walsh, writer, therapist, and advocate, who shares their journey to identifying as Autistic and ADHD later in life.

Nyck reflects on growing up feeling fundamentally different — navigating school, relationships, and work without the language to understand why things felt harder than they seemed for others. Like many late-identified adults, they developed ways to cope, adapt, and push through, often at the expense of their own well-being.

It wasn’t until adulthood, through a combination of burnout, reflection, and exposure to neurodivergent experiences, that Nyck began to recognise themselves, leading to a deeper understanding of their needs, identity, and way of being.

This is a conversation about unlearning, self-acceptance, and choosing a different way forward.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Nyck Walsh — Writer, therapist, and AuDHD advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Lifelong difference
• Discussion: Masking and adaptation
• Burnout and turning points
• Late identification journey
• Self-trust and unlearning
• Identity and authenticity
• Building a life that fits
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Nyck Walsh and reflects on the shared experience of reaching adulthood before having the language to understand oneself.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Nyck’s Story

Nyck describes a lifelong sense of being different, not quite fitting into expected social, academic, or professional norms.

Without a framework for Autism or ADHD, they developed strategies to cope, often masking their natural responses and pushing themselves to meet external expectations.

Over time, this led to burnout and a growing awareness that something deeper needed to be understood.

Through reflection and exposure to neurodivergent experiences, Nyck began to recognise themselves, leading to a process of late identification and self-understanding.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Lifelong difference: Feeling out of sync with others from an early age
• Masking: Adapting behaviour to meet expectations
• Internal pressure: Pushing through despite difficulty
• Burnout: The cost of long-term masking
• Late identification: Recognition through reflection and community
• Self-trust: Learning to listen to internal need
• Unlearning: Letting go of harmful narratives
• Identity shift: Moving toward authenticity
• Environment fit: Designing life around needs
• Coaching perspective: Supporting others through similar journeys

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You can feel different long before you understand why.
• Masking can delay recognition but comes at a cost.
• Burnout is often a turning point toward self-understanding.
• Late identification can open the door to self-trust.
• Unlearning is as important as learning.
• Building a life that fits is a process, not a moment.

📌 Notice Board

• Neurodivergent Somatics in Therapy: an anti-oppressive model for whole person care - Nyck’s book - For book orders in Europe and Asia
• Nyck’s book - For book orders in the US
• The discount code is WN357 and offers a 30% discount on both the print and ebook when ordered through our site. nyckwalsh.com
• Nyck Walsh Counselling and Training Centre on Facebook
• Nyck Walsh on Instagram
• ADHD 2.0 and VAST
• Kinetic Cognitive Style (KCS) term for ADHD

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott explore a new study analysing 14 million Reddit posts and comments, revealing a major shift in how we talk about mental health online. Once dominated by discussions around depression and anxiety, platforms like Reddit are now seeing autism and ADHD take centre stage.

Article: https://theconversation.com/we-analysed-14-million-reddit-posts-to-reveal-a-striking-shift-in-how-we-talk-about-mental-health-283059

The conversation unpacks why more people are turning to social media, podcasts, and online communities to understand themselves and seek support. Jordan and Simon reflect on the value of lived experience, how finding relatable stories can reduce shame and isolation, and why so many neurodivergent people feel they've learned more from community than from traditional services.

A thoughtful and balanced conversation about the internet, identity, and what happens when lived experience becomes one of our most powerful sources of knowledge.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott return after an unexpected break to talk honestly about something many neurodivergent adults know all too well: what happens when life leaves you with nothing left in the tank.

From 72-hour work weeks and launching new projects to forgetting to record the podcast altogether, they reflect on the mounting pressure of adulthood, the fear of burnout, and the guilt that can come with taking time for yourself. Simon opens up about juggling the demands of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network while struggling to switch off, while Jordan shares how gaming, photography, and embracing his inner child have helped him navigate periods of stress and boreout.

A funny, vulnerable, and deeply relatable episode about burnout, adulthood, and remembering that sometimes the most important thing you can do is give yourself permission to simply be.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Katharine Gates, a writer, artist, and long-time creative who identified as Autistic and ADHD after a lifetime of questioning herself.

Katharine shares how she spent decades feeling like the “odd one out” — academically gifted, outwardly successful, yet constantly struggling with everyday life, relationships, and a persistent sense that something didn’t quite fit.

After 40 years of therapy, misdiagnoses, and searching for answers, it was a period of Autistic burnout that finally led her to recognise her neurodivergence and begin to reframe her life.

This is a conversation about being misunderstood for decades — and what changes when you finally understand yourself.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Katharine Gates — writer, artist, and Autistic + ADHD creator

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Gifted child, lifelong difference
• Discussion: Masking, achievement, and burnout
• Privilege and hidden accommodations
• ADHD + Autism dual identification
• Alexithymia and emotional processing
• Special interests and bottom-up thinking
• Family patterns and generational neurodivergence
• Self-compassion and dropping shame
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Katharine Gates, whose story reflects a common Late Diagnosis Club experience — decades of feeling different, capable, and confused all at once.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Katharine’s Story

Katharine describes herself as an “exceedingly odd child,” growing up academically gifted but struggling to translate that success into everyday life.

She became highly skilled at masking — orienting her life around achievement and external validation — while privately questioning why basic things felt so difficult.

Over time, this led to cycles of burnout, misdiagnosis, and self-blame, with labels such as depression, anxiety, substance use, and personality disorder used to explain her experiences.

It wasn’t until a major burnout in adulthood that Katharine encountered the concept of autistic burnout and began recognising herself in Autistic narratives.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Gifted but struggling: Academic success masking real challenges
• Hyper masking: Performing competence at the cost of burnout
• Burnout trigger: Brain “stopping” rather than emotional collapse
• Therapist dismissal: Being told she “just wanted to feel special”
• ADHD alongside Autism: Dual identification later in the process
• Alexithymia: Difficulty identifying and processing emotions
• Masking as performance: Life experienced as “putting on a show”
• Parenting moment: Struggles with empathy prompting deeper reflection
• Generational patterns: Neurodivergence, trauma, and coping across family lines
• Special interests: Deep dives into systems, patterns, and categorisation

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You can be highly capable and still struggle deeply.
• Masking can delay recognition for decades.
• Privilege can both hide support needs and meet them.
• Burnout can be the turning point toward understanding.
• Emotional processing differences are often overlooked.
• Special interests can shape identity, career, and meaning.
• Self-compassion can be one of the most powerful outcomes of a diagnosis.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott open up about imposter syndrome — the belief that you’re never good enough, never qualified enough, and that one day everyone will “figure you out.”

With humour and honesty, they share personal stories of childhood bullying, masking, perfectionism and self-doubt, and how growing up misunderstood leaves many autistic and ADHD adults feeling like their achievements aren’t real. From turning down opportunities to assuming every success is luck, they explore why confidence is so difficult for neurodivergent minds.

They discuss how imposter syndrome shows up in work, relationships, creativity and social media — and how therapy, self-compassion and supportive people can slowly rewrite the story.

They explore:

• Why imposter syndrome is so common for autistic & ADHD adults
• Growing up hearing you’re “lazy,” “too much,” or “not trying”
• How masking and people-pleasing destroy self-worth
• The fear of failure — and the fear of success
• Social media, comparison and anxiety
• Why confidence takes time and why small wins matter
• When self-criticism becomes self-harm
• Why reaching out can save people from spiralling alone

This is a raw, validating conversation for anyone who has ever worked twice as hard and still felt like a fraud. If you struggle to believe in yourself, this episode is proof that you’re not alone — and that healing is possible.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

This Is the Sound of Autistic Culture - Welcome to the Autistic Culture Podcast Network.

We are a global media network built by Autistic creators to document and celebrate the full breadth of Autistic lives through podcasts grounded in lived experience, community, and culture.

Most autism media focuses on diagnosis, symptoms, interventions, and support needs. While those conversations matter, they are only part of the story. Autistic people also fall in love, raise families, build careers, create art, develop passions, argue about politics, collect things, navigate illness, laugh at niche jokes, and live rich, complex lives.

The Autistic Culture Podcast Network exists to make space for those stories.

This trailer introduces a growing collection of podcasts exploring identity, health, hobbies, creativity, community, education, relationships, disability, special interests, and everything in between. Through deep-dive interviews, documentaries, roundtable discussions, educational series, review shows, and more, our creators are building a media ecosystem where Autistic voices are centred rather than explained.

Whether you're Autistic, neurodivergent, questioning, supporting someone you love, or simply curious, there's a place for you here.

Join Us For The Launch Event:

Monday 22 June 2026

8:00 AM PT | 11:00 AM ET | 4:00 PM BST

https://autisticculture.lpages.co/acpnlaunch/

Meet the co-founders of the network and many of the creators behind our shows in a special live premiere event.

During the event, you'll:

• Hear clips from brand-new shows launching across the network

• Meet the hosts and creators behind the microphones

• Ask questions and join the conversation

• Connect with Autistic listeners from around the world

• Be part of the launch of the first podcast network built by and for Autistic people

Pitch Your Show:

Do you have a podcast—or an idea for one—that celebrates autistic or neurodivergent life?

We are currently accepting pitches from autistic and neurodivergent creators.

Whether you're an experienced podcaster or just getting started, we can help with production support, mentoring, distribution, promotion, and community.

To pitch a show or learn more:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScUvaH-gYriiQDiLwDCDVZCPLgAsFARIhd4iHfBpRtbqWFQ9w/viewform

📩 info@autisticculturepodcast.com

This is the sound of Autistic Culture.

Available wherever you listen to podcasts.

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Dale Pickles — host of Sendcast and Managing Director of B Squared — for a wide-ranging conversation on late diagnosis, education systems, and what it really means to support neurodivergent people.

Dale shares how he grew up surrounded by special education — yet still missed his own Autism and ADHD. It wasn’t until 2023, prompted by supporting his daughter through her diagnosis journey, that everything finally clicked.

This is a conversation about understanding yourself, supporting the next generation, and rethinking systems that weren’t built for neurodivergent minds.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Dale Pickles — SEND specialist, podcast host, and Managing Director of B Squared

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Family neurodivergence and missed recognition
• Learning social rules and masking
• Late diagnosis through parenting
• Navigating the UK diagnosis system
• Education system challenges and executive function in schools
• SEND reform and needs-led support
• AI and neurodivergent support tools
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Dale Pickles and reflects on how someone can grow up immersed in special education and still miss their own neurodivergence.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Dale’s Story

Dale grew up in a family deeply connected to special education, yet his own Autism and ADHD were not identified.

Although he recognised he was different, he didn’t feel he met diagnostic criteria. Instead, he developed ways to adapt, learning social rules, structuring his environment, and building a life that worked for him.

His path to diagnosis came later, prompted by supporting his daughter through her own challenges and recognition.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Missed in plain sight: Growing up around SEND without recognising himself
• Family neurodivergence: Traits present across generations
• Long-term relationships: Building connections through learned skills
• Diagnosis trigger: Supporting his daughter through school struggles
• Self-accommodation: Designing life to reduce friction
• Labels vs reality: Diagnosis doesn’t define ability
• Fail-first system: Support often comes only after crisis
• SEND reform: Moving toward needs-led support
• Early intervention: Preventing long-term harm
• Executive function gap: A missing focus in schools
• AI support: Tools for communication, reflection, and preparation
• Environmental impact: Needs to change depending on context

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You can build a life that works without knowing why it works.
• Late diagnosis often comes through supporting others.
• Self-accommodation is a powerful but often invisible skill.
• Diagnosis is personal and not always necessary for everyone.
• Education systems often require failure before support.
• Early support can prevent long-term harm and trauma.
• Executive function is a key area often overlooked in schools.

📌 Notice Board

• Dale’s Podcast - https://thesendcast.com/sendcast-episodes/
• Dale’s LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/dalepickles
• Brain in Hand App

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott react to controversial headlines claiming people with ADHD and anxiety “shouldn’t automatically get blue badges” — and unpack the wider stigma surrounding invisible disabilities.

The discussion explores the public backlash around disabled parking permits for hidden disabilities, including ADHD, autism, anxiety, dyspraxia, and other non-visible conditions. Jordan and Simon reflect on why so many people still struggle to understand disability unless it is physically obvious, and how media narratives often frame disabled people as “cheating the system.”

Funny, fiery, and deeply honest — this episode is a passionate discussion about disability, stigma, support systems, and why invisible disabilities are still disabilities.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott explore the exhausting reality of procrastination, executive dysfunction, and navigating deadlines as neurodivergent adults.

From forgotten weddings and last-minute panic buying to missed emails, time blindness, and overwhelming admin tasks, they unpack how procrastination is rarely about laziness — and far more often linked to anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, and fear of failure.

They discuss practical coping strategies too, including body doubling, breaking tasks into smaller steps, momentum-building, and learning to work with your brain rather than against it.

Funny, chaotic, painfully relatable, and deeply honest — this episode is a raw look at the emotional reality of executive dysfunction and the hidden energy cost of simply trying to keep up.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Jason Killian, an engineer, hiking instructor, and long time member of the club, who shares his journey to understanding himself as Autistic in his 40s.

Growing up in a neurodivergent household, Jason was unknowingly accommodated in early childhood. Despite strong academic performance, Jason struggled with social integration, bullying, and later workplace dynamics, experiences that only made sense years later through the lens of Autism.

This is a conversation about understanding your needs, building a life that fits, and what changes when you finally have the right framework.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Jason Killian — Engineer, hiking instructor, and Autistic advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Early environment and hidden accommodations
• Discussion: School overwhelm and social expectations
• IEPs, missed diagnoses, and academic masking
• Workplace challenges and burnout
• Late identification and diagnosis journey
• Self-accommodation and relationships
• Hiking, regulation, and sensory experience
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Jason Killian, a longtime LDC member whose story explores what it means to grow up supported, but not understood, and to find clarity later in life.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Jason’s Story

Jason grew up in a neurodivergent family where his needs were naturally accommodated — quiet spaces, independence, and room to explore interests.

But once he entered school, sensory overwhelm, social expectations, and group environments became challenging. Without a framework for Autism, these struggles were interpreted as social difficulties rather than unmet needs.

Although he performed well academically, Jason experienced bullying, isolation, and later workplace challenges, particularly around communication, expectations, and social norms.

It wasn’t until adulthood — after years of reflection, therapy, and recognising patterns — that Jason identified as Autistic and sought a formal diagnosis.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Neurodivergent household: Early needs met without formal recognition
• School shock: Sensory overwhelm and social confusion in group settings
• IEP limitations: Focus on social skills, not sensory or learning needs
• Bullying experience: Social differences targeted in adolescence and work
• College turning point: Finding acceptance in the queer community
• Pandemic reflection: Patterns recognised through shared experiences online
• Relationship clarity: Shared neurodivergence improves understanding
• Workplace shift: Smaller company enabling better fit and autonomy
• Hiking regulation: Nature as a consistent nervous system support
• Sensory joy: Smell, sound, and visual richness in outdoor environments

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Support without understanding can still leave gaps.
• Academic success does not mean needs are being met.
• Late identification often comes through pattern recognition over time.
• Self-accommodation is a critical skill for wellbeing.
• Relationships can improve with shared understanding and language.
• Environment plays a major role in regulation and success.
• Special interests can become both careers and lifelines.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss a new study exploring whether magnetic brain stimulation could help autistic children with communication difficulties.

The conversation dives into the complicated ethical questions surrounding emerging neurodivergent research: where is the line between support and “fixing”? Can new technologies genuinely improve quality of life, or are researchers still approaching autism through a deficit-based lens?

A thoughtful, balanced, and deeply neurodivergent discussion about science, ethics, identity, and the future of autism support.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

In this Neurodivergent Reddit Stories episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott unpack three relatable neurodivergent struggles: dyspraxia and coordination issues, the confusing world of neurotypical “social greasing,” and the never-ending battle with sleep.

Funny, chaotic, emotional, and painfully relatable — this episode is a deep dive into the everyday realities of living in a neurodivergent brain.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Danielle Procope Bell, PhD, an Autistic Black feminist scholar and Assistant Professor of Africana Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Danielle shares how she knew from early childhood that she was different, finding other children chaotic, preferring books and structure, and feeling an invisible glass wall between herself and others.

Like many late-identified adults, Danielle’s recognition journey deepened after her son’s Autism diagnosis, when family patterns suddenly came into focus and helped her understand herself in a new way.

This is a conversation about identity, lineage, belonging, and what becomes possible when you finally see yourself clearly.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Danielle Procope Bell, PhD. — Scholar, professor, and Black feminist thinker

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Early difference, late recognition
• Discussion: Hyperlexia, gifted programs, and childhood belonging
• Family neurodivergence and being accepted at home
• Son’s diagnosis and family pattern recognition
• Race, gender, and what gets missed in Autism conversations
• Autigendering and Black feminist theory
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Danielle Procope Bell, PhD, whose work sits at the intersection of Autism, Black feminism, gender, and identity.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Danielle’s Story

Danielle recognised from kindergarten that she related differently to the world. While other children felt unpredictable and chaotic, she preferred reading, routine, and solitary play.

Her traits were interpreted as shyness and giftedness rather than Autism. She was moved into a gifted program, but the transition also brought racial and class isolation.

Later, after her son was diagnosed as Autistic, Danielle began to recognise familiar patterns in herself, her father, and wider family members — leading to her own formal diagnosis.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Kindergarten awareness: Knowing early that other children felt chaotic
• Hyperlexia signs: Reading from age three and a deep love of books
• Son’s diagnosis: Recognition through seeing herself reflected in him
• Representation gap: Autism narratives dominated by white male stereotypes
• Traits misread: Black Autistic traits interpreted as aggression or defiance
• ODD pipeline: Black children funnelled into behavioural labels instead of support
• Medical privilege: Access to quality adult assessment shaped outcomes
• Black feminism as home: Intellectual spaces that affirmed difference before diagnosis

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Many Autistic people know they are different long before they know why.
• Diagnosis journeys are shaped by race, gender, and class.
• Traits are often interpreted differently depending on who displays them.
• Representation changes who gets recognised and supported.
• Identity can be built through community as much as through medicine.

📌 Notice Board

• The Department of Africana Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville
• Black, White, and in Colour: Essays on American Literature and Culture by Hortense J. Spillers
• Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
• Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches by Audry Lorde
• The users of the erotic - centring your internal experience by Audry Lorde
• Sula by Toni Morrison
• The Deep by River Solomon

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The Hot Topic is back! In this return episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott react to actor Tom Hardy publicly revealing that he is neurodivergent.

The conversation explores why representation matters, especially when someone as widely respected and traditionally “masculine” as Tom Hardy openly discusses being on the spectrum, as well as Tom Hardy’s collaboration with Tatami Fightwear on a new neurodiversity-themed jiu-jitsu clothing range, with profits supporting autism charities.

A funny, passionate, and honest return for the Hot Topic episodes — exploring celebrity representation, neurodivergent identity, and why visibility still matters.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott are joined by author, advocate, and lived experience ambassador Paul Stevenson for a powerful conversation about Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, late diagnosis, masking, trauma, and finding strength through neurodivergence.

Paul reflects on growing up in a time when neurodivergence was misunderstood and punished, sharing how years of masking, shame, and feeling “different” shaped his life before eventually receiving diagnoses of Tourette’s Syndrome and ADHD later in adulthood.

Together, they discuss neurodivergent strengths, workplace accommodations, education reform, creativity, anxiety, community, and the importance of helping young neurodivergent people feel seen before life teaches them to hide themselves.

A deeply honest and inspiring conversation about resilience, self-understanding, and the power of opening doors for others.

About Paul Stevenson:

Paul Stevenson is a lived experience ambassador at Genius Within, international speaker, author, and advocate for neurodiversity and inclusion. He is widely recognised for his work raising awareness around Tourette’s Syndrome, ADHD, and neurodivergent lived experience.

Paul is the author of My Tics and Me, an educational children’s book designed to promote understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity from an early age.

3 Men with Tourette's go on holiday (National Geographic Taboo Series)

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🤝 Sophie James - Neurodivergent Mentoring

• → sophiejamesndmentoring.com

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

Warning: This episode includes discussion of terminal cancer, sudden bereavement, grief, burnout, and mental health struggles. Please listen with care.

In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Scott Simpson, a late-identified Autistic and ADHD creator, former broadcast journalist, and widowed father who has been raising his son solo since 2016.

After decades working in radio, Scott’s life began to unravel through grief, burnout, and the collapse of the structures that had quietly supported him for years. What followed was a search to understand executive functioning, ADHD, and eventually Autism.

Together, Angela and Scott explore hidden support needs, burnout after loss, Autistic shutdown, identity through memoirs and community, and why many late-identified adults only recognise their needs once life’s scaffolding disappears.

This is a conversation about grief, structure, survival, and finally understanding yourself.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Scott Simpson — Content creator, former broadcaster, and late-identified AuDHD parent

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Gifted kid, burnout, and late recognition
• Discussion: Special education and social confusion
• Widowhood, solo parenting, and hidden support needs
• Radio career collapse and autistic burnout
• ADHD diagnosis and later Autism recognition
• Structure, scaffolding, and unmet needs
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Scott Simpson, a creator and former radio professional whose late identification followed years of grief, burnout, and trying to understand why life had become so much harder.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Scott’s Story

Scott was identified as “gifted” in childhood and placed into a specialist education program. While his intelligence was recognised early, his social struggles and deeper support needs were not.

As an adult, he built a long career in broadcasting, married, became a father, and later experienced profound loss when his wife died of cancer while their son was still young.

When career structure and family scaffolding fell away, Scott began exploring executive functioning, received an ADHD diagnosis, and later recognised Autism.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Gifted program: Early intelligence recognised, while deeper needs were missed
• Smart but struggling: Academic ability masking social confusion
• Relationship patterns: Trying hard without understanding the rules
• Sudden grief: Becoming a widowed father to a three-year-old
• Radio collapse: Career pressure, impossible demands, and burnout
• Hidden scaffolding: Job structure and parenting routines quietly sustaining life
• ADHD first: Executive functioning becomes the doorway to understanding
• Autism later: Shutdowns, overwhelm, and lifelong patterns making sense
• Memoirs mattered: Learning through Autistic voices and lived experience
• Support needs emerge: Struggles become visible once the structure disappears

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• High achievement can hide unmet support needs.
• Grief and burnout often expose needs that were once masked.
• Executive functioning struggles are often misunderstood as laziness or failure.
• Late recognition can come after life changes remove coping systems.
• Autistic voices and memoirs can be more powerful than diagnostic checklists.
• Support is often invisible until it is gone.

📌 Notice Board

Scott’s Website

Scott’s YouTube Channel

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott explore the often-overlooked concept of boreout, and how it can feel almost identical to burnout, especially for neurodivergent people.

They unpack how under-stimulation, not just stress or overwhelm, can lead to symptoms like anxiety, low mood, apathy, fatigue, and loss of motivation. From feeling “sick with boredom” to questioning why nothing feels engaging, they reflect on how easy it is to mislabel boreout as burnout. The conversation breaks down the key differences: burnout driven by too much, boreout driven by too little — but both leading to similar emotional and physical exhaustion.

A relatable and eye-opening conversation about balance, stimulation, and why neurodivergent people often feel like they’re constantly walking a tightrope between too much and not enough.

We’re really excited to now be part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network — a space dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices, lived experience, and real conversations. Being part of this network means we can reach more people and continue building this community together.

Our Sponsors:

🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy

• → https://bit.ly/ashleynde

🔗 Stay Connected

• Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
• Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook page
• YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
• TikTok: @neurodivergentexperience

🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes KW Raney, a therapist, creative, and podcast host who identified as AuDHD in adulthood after years of misdiagnosis, burnout, and self-blame.

As a child, KW was labelled with oppositional defiant disorder and grew up believing he was difficult, lazy, and broken. But decades later, recognition of ADHD, and later Autism, helped him reframe the struggles that had followed him since childhood.

Together, Angela and KW explore the cost of wrong labels, Autistic burnout, meltdowns mistaken for behavioural problems, sensory overwhelm, masking through work and education, and the long process of learning how to accommodate yourself instead of fighting yourself.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: KW Raney — Therapist, creative, and AuDHD advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Misdiagnosis, masking, ADHD discovery and later Autism recognition
• Discussion: ODD labels and childhood misunderstanding
• Burnout, depression, and reframing the past
• Meltdowns, sensory overwhelm, and self-accommodation
• Music, animals, and nervous system regulation
• Trusting your own internal compass
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces KW Raney, who reflects on how years of wrong labels shaped his identity, and how discovering he was AuDHD helped everything begin to make sense.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: KW’s Story

KW was diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder as a child, a label that framed his distress and overwhelm as bad behaviour rather than unmet needs.

Despite academic success, he carried deep feelings of failure and self-blame into adulthood. It was only later, through recognising ADHD and then Autism, that he began to understand the lifelong patterns beneath those experiences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• ODD label: Childhood distress framed as defiance instead of neurodivergence
• Hidden struggle: Good grades masking internal overwhelm
• Adult ADHD recognition: A workplace conversation changed the lens
• Autism realisation: Later patterns are becoming clear through a new framework
• Burnout reframe: Depression and suicidality viewed differently in hindsight
• Meltdowns misunderstood: Pressure-valve overload mistaken for behaviour problems
• Self-accommodation: Learning to support needs instead of suppressing them
• Animal regulation: Comfort, pressure input, and nervous system calm
• Music as lifeline: Emotional release, identity, and connection
• Creative return: Rebuilding expression after burnout
• Inner compass: Learning to trust yourself over old labels

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Wrong labels can shape identity for decades.
• Achievement does not cancel out struggle.
• Burnout is often misunderstood when neurodivergence is unseen.
• Meltdowns are overwhelm, not moral failure.
• Self-accommodation can be life-changing.
• Healing often begins when you trust your own experience.

📌 Notice Board

• https://substack.com/@mraskmore
• https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203579170

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Sha’mya Jones, a graphic designer and entrepreneur who was diagnosed as Autistic in early childhood — but didn’t learn about it until she was a teenager.

Sha’mya shares what it was like to grow up knowing she was different but not understanding why, navigating school, relationships, and identity without the language to describe her experience. From early academic success to social challenges and bullying, her story reflects the complexity of being both supported and left in the dark.

Together, Angela and Sha’mya explore masking, college burnout, creative identity, and what it means to build a life and business that reflects who you truly are.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Sha’mya Jones — graphic designer, entrepreneur, and Autistic self-advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Early diagnosis, late awareness
• Discussion: Childhood differences and school experiences
• IEP meeting and discovering her diagnosis
• Masking, bullying, and social challenges
• College life, burnout, and independence
• Art, identity, and creative expression
• Entrepreneurship and neurodivergent design
• Representation and visibility

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Sha’mya Jones, a graphic designer and entrepreneur whose work centres on neurodivergent and underrepresented communities, particularly entrepreneurs of colour.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Sha’mya’s Story

Sha'mya was diagnosed as Autistic as a toddler, but her diagnosis was not shared with her until she was in high school during an IEP meeting.

Growing up, she sensed she was different, often finishing work early, helping classmates, and connecting more easily with teachers than peers. Despite having accommodations, she navigated childhood without the language to understand her experiences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Early diagnosis, hidden identity: Diagnosed in early childhood but not told until high school
• Feeling different: Awareness of being out of step with peers from a young age
• Teacher connection: Easier relationships with adults than classmates
• IEP moment: Learning about her diagnosis during a school meeting
• Masking and bullying: Navigating teasing, social confusion, and self-protection
• Curiosity misunderstood: Being perceived as rude for asking direct questions
• College burnout: Over-involvement, pandemic disruption, and exhaustion
• Creative identity: Art as expression and pathway to career
• Entrepreneurship: Building a business centred on neurodivergent clients
• Representation: Highlighting Autistic women and people of colour

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Being diagnosed early does not guarantee understanding or support.
• Without language, differences can lead to confusion and self-doubt.
• Masking and social challenges often emerge more strongly over time.
• Creative expression can provide clarity and identity.
• Representation matters — especially for marginalised Autistic voices.
• Self-understanding is an ongoing process, not a single moment.

📌 Notice Board

• Sha’mya’s LinkedIn
• Prisma kind Design Newsletter
• Prisma Kind Design Website
• Ko-Fi (for tipping)
• Brand Check-In Survey
• Free Brand Clarity Checklist
• Brand Calm-Down Kit (paid audit and reset)
• Signature 2-tiered Brand Package (currently looking to book 3-4 beta clients to test and improve her offer)

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Daria Brown, creator of Affect Autism and host of the We Chose Play podcast.

Daria shares her journey from parent advocate to late-identified Autistic adult, reflecting on the decade between her son’s diagnosis and her own. What began as a search for how to support her son eventually led to a deeper understanding of herself, reframing lifelong traits, parenting experiences, and ways of relating to the world.

They discuss DIR Floortime, rejecting compliance-based approaches, and the role of connection, regulation, and play in both parenting and personal growth.

This is a conversation about unlearning, identity, and what happens when the lens finally shifts.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Daria Brown — Parent advocate, podcaster, and late-identified Autistic adult

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Parenting, advocacy, and late self-recognition
• Discussion: Son’s diagnosis, seizures, and early understanding of autism
• Medical model, ableism, and the “fixing” mindset
• Discovering Autistic voices during the pandemic
• Questioning identity and the late diagnosis journey
• DIR Floortime, connection, and rejecting compliance-based therapy
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Daria Brown, a long-time parent advocate and creator of Affect Autism, whose work focuses on supporting families through DIR Floortime and neurodiversity-affirming approaches.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Daria’s Story

Daria’s journey into the autism world began with her son’s diagnosis following a serious medical event involving seizures and brain inflammation. At the time, her understanding of autism was shaped by ableist narratives and a belief that her role was to “fix” her child.

Over the years, as she supported her son and connected with other families, Daria became deeply involved in advocacy and alternative approaches like DIR Floortime.

A decade after her son’s diagnosis, Daria received her own autism diagnosis, reframing her identity and life experiences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Early assumptions: Autism initially understood through an ableist, deficit-based lens
• Medical trauma: Son’s seizures, hospitalisation, and lasting impact on parenting
• DIR Floortime: Choosing connection and co-regulation over compliance
• ABA tension: Navigating systems that prioritise behaviour over individual needs
• Late recognition: Seeing lifelong traits through an Autistic lens
• Imposter syndrome: Questioning identity despite strong resonance
• Reframing traits: From “bossy” or “controlling” to regulation and coping strategies
• Special interests: Intense projects, creativity, and lifelong patterns
• Community: Finding belonging through shared neurodivergent experiences

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Understanding autism often begins with outdated or ableist assumptions that require unlearning.
• Parenting a neurodivergent child can reshape identity and self-understanding.
• Connection and co-regulation are foundational to both parenting and personal growth.
• Traits once labelled negatively may be reframed as adaptive or regulating.
• Community plays a crucial role in reducing isolation and building self-acceptance.

📌 Notice Board

Affect Autism Website

Kieran Rose, The Autistic Advocate

Kathleen Platzman, PhD

We Choose Play Podcast

The Neurodivergent experience Podcast

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Shyloe Fayad, a late-diagnosed Autistic school counsellor and somatic experiencing practitioner based on the stolen land of the Syilx people of the Okanagan in Canada.

Shyloe works both within schools and in private practice, supporting neurodivergent people, mixed race communities, and teens and adults navigating depression and anxiety.

Together, Angela and Shyloe explore sensitivity, boundaries, and the quiet but radical act of honouring your own needs in a culture that often teaches you not to.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Shyloe Fayad — Late-diagnosed Autistic School counsellor and somatic experiencing practitioner

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Learning to trust your own needs
• Discussion: Sensitivity, boundaries, and self-trust
• Late diagnosis and identity integration
• Cultural conditioning and productivity expectations
• Emotional processing and internal timing
• Accountability vs compassion
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomes Shyloe Fayad to the club, introducing a conversation centred on emotional sensitivity, self-trust, and rebuilding your relationship with yourself after a late diagnosis.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Shyloe’s Story

Shyloe was raised in environments that prioritised productivity, deadlines, and external expectations over internal needs. Over time, this led to a disconnection from her own timing and instincts, something she began to recognise and unlearn following her late Autism diagnosis.

Her work as a counsellor and somatic practitioner informs this perspective, grounding the conversation in the body, nervous system, and the lived experience of navigating a world that often teaches people not to trust themselves.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Sensitivity: Experiencing the world deeply and needing space to process
• Self-trust: Relearning how to listen to internal signals
• Cultural conditioning: Being taught your needs are “less important”
• Productivity pressure: Deadlines overriding well-being
• Women and masking: Social expectations shaping behaviour
• Accountability vs compassion: The tension between rules and humanity
• Black-and-white thinking: Wanting clear rules in complex social situations
• Community: Drawing strength from like-minded people
• Emotional care: Protecting your “sensitive heart”

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You have been taught not to trust your needs — and that can be unlearned.
• Sensitivity is not a weakness, but something to be protected.
• There is no perfect rulebook for being human — only ongoing adjustment.
• Accountability and compassion must coexist.
• Late diagnosis is the beginning of rebuilding self-trust.
• Community can help you navigate a world that feels misaligned.
• Honouring your needs is a practice, not a one-time decision.
• You can start again — as many times as you need.

📌 Notice Board

• Contact Shyloe: radicalwondering@gmail.com
• Shyloe’s Instagram
• Radical Wondering Instagram
• Facebook: Shyloe Fayad

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Carolyn Kiel, host of the award-winning podcast Beyond 6 Seconds, who discovered she was Autistic not before, but through her podcasting journey.

Together, Angela and Carolyn explore late discovery through connection, the limits of traditional narratives around autism, workplace misunderstandings, and how language and self-understanding can transform everyday life.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Carolyn Kiel — Host of the Beyond 6 Seconds Podcast

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Discovering autism through podcasting
• Discussion: Representation, stereotypes, and lived experience
• Late diagnosis and identity integration
• Self-identification vs formal diagnosis
• Post-diagnosis adjustments and accommodations
• Autistic joy and special interests
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Carolyn Kiel, host of Beyond 6 Seconds, a long-running podcast exploring human experiences and neurodiversity. Carolyn shares how her podcasting journey began as a creative outlet, and unexpectedly became the pathway to discovering her own Autistic identity.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Carolyn’s Story

Carolyn began podcasting in 2018 to build creative expression and practise one-on-one conversations. As an introverted and self-described shy person, interviewing others about their passions offered a structured way to connect.

Through her podcast, she encountered members of the disability and neurodivergent community, including Autistic creators. Hearing their experiences, particularly how autism felt rather than how it was externally described, led to a growing sense of recognition.

After further research, particularly around how autism presents in women, Carolyn began to question whether she might be Autistic. She later pursued a formal diagnosis in her mid-40s, which confirmed her understanding and led her to pivot her podcast toward neurodivergent voices and intersectional experiences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Discovery through others: Recognising yourself in the lived experiences of others
• Beyond stereotypes: Moving past narrow 80s/90s definitions of autism
• Self-identification vs diagnosis: Barriers, access, and validity of both paths
• Social confusion: Difficulty navigating conversations, timing, and group dynamics
• Communication shifts: Learning to verbalise internal processing needs
• Accommodations: Fidgets, earplugs, sunglasses, and sensory awareness
• Podcasting as control: Creative ownership, structure, and autonomy
• Intersectionality: Exploring neurodivergence across race, gender, and identity
• Corporate navigation: Developing “scripts” to survive workplace culture

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late diagnosis can emerge through connection and shared stories, not just clinical pathways.
• Understanding internal experience is often more powerful than external definitions.
• Self-identification is valid, particularly where diagnostic barriers exist.
• Giftedness and competence can mask significant support needs.
• Small accommodations can meaningfully improve daily life.
• Workplace challenges are often rooted in misunderstanding, not inability.
• Identity integration is an ongoing process, not a single moment of clarity.

📌 Notice Board

• Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people
• Recommended Episode: Interview with Tiffany Hammond (A Day With No Words)

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Michael Kelly, a late-diagnosed Autistic artist and recent PhD graduate in design whose work explores how art can help us think about thinking.

Michael’s path to diagnosis began unexpectedly during his wife Susie’s autism assessment. After sitting in on several sessions as her carer, the clinician suggested that Michael pursue an assessment as well, leading to his own diagnosis a year later.

Together, Angela and Michael explore childhood solitude and special interests, creative practice as a way of understanding the mind, and how art can disrupt the systems that shape our thinking.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Michael Kelly — Autistic artist, designer, and researcher

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Growing up as the “weird kid” and finding refuge in books and ideas
• Discussion: Philosophy, art practice, and early adult burnout
• Psychosis, misdiagnosis, and years labelled as anxiety
• Autistic masking, sensory overwhelm, and family patterns
• Art as inquiry: performance, sculpture, and metacognition
• Artificial intelligence, normativity, and the role of artists
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Michael Kelly, a late-diagnosed Autistic artist and newly minted PhD graduate whose research explores how art can help us understand thinking itself, particularly in the context of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Michael’s Story

Michael describes growing up as “the weird kid,” finding comfort in solitary interests like books, dinosaurs, comics, and drawing. As an only child, he often retreated into imagination and reflection. Experiences that, in hindsight, align with Autistic ways of engaging with the world.

After studying philosophy at Durham University in the UK, Michael pursued creative work and eventually a career in advertising before experiencing severe burnout and psychosis in his mid-20s. For years afterwards, he lived under an anxiety diagnosis without understanding the deeper neurodivergent context behind his experiences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Only-child solitude: Safe space for imagination, reading, and deep thinking
• Early interests: Dinosaurs, comics, drawing, theology, and philosophy
• Advertising burnout: Workplace pressure and sensory overload leading to psychosis
• Misdiagnosis: Years labelled with anxiety before autism was considered
• Partner recognition: Sitting in on Susie’s autism assessment sparked Michael’s own
• Masking and sensory overwhelm: Eye contact, social performance, and inherited patterns
• Art as inquiry: Performance art, sculpture, and artistic experiments exploring the mind
• Metacognition: Using art to examine how humans think about thinking
• AI and normativity: Concerns about artificial intelligence reinforcing “average” thinking

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late discovery often begins with recognition by someone close to us.
• Years of anxiety or other diagnoses can obscure underlying neurodivergence.
• Creative practice can become a powerful tool for understanding internal experience.
• Masking and sensory overwhelm often shape lifelong coping strategies.
• Artists may play an important role in questioning the systems and technologies shaping our future.

📌 Notice Board

• Michael’s Website

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Tigz Rice, an empowerment photographer whose work centres on helping people feel truly seen in their own bodies.

Diagnosed with ADHD and autism in her late 30s, Tigz reflects on the subtle signs that were present throughout childhood — from early hyperfocus on computers and photography to lifelong curiosity about how things work. What began as a casual exploration of ADHD eventually led to a dual diagnosis that reframed decades of experience and self-understanding.

Together, Angela and Tigz explore late discovery, high masking, creative hyperfocus, and how learning her neurodivergent “user manual” has changed how she treats herself.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Tigz Rice — Empowerment photographer, podcaster, and late-identified Autistic ADHDer

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Creativity, photography, and late neurodivergent discovery
• Discussion: ADHD first, autism later, and the long path to diagnosis
• Hyperfocus, masking, and childhood signs
• Creative communities, burlesque, and neurodivergent overlap
• Learning self-compassion after diagnosis
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomes listeners to the meeting and introduces photographer Tigz Rice, whose work focuses on helping people feel comfortable being seen in their bodies. Through photography, Tigz creates spaces where authenticity and vulnerability are welcomed rather than hidden.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Tigz’s Story

Tigz did not suspect she was neurodivergent until her 30s. The idea first emerged when several friends in her social circle began receiving ADHD and autism diagnoses.

What began as curiosity became a deeper investigation. Her ADHD diagnosis arrived first, followed by an autism diagnosis only a few months later at age 38. Rather than shock or shame, the experience felt largely validating — like finally gaining access to the “user manual” for her brain.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Friendship pattern: Entire social circle gradually discovering neurodivergence
• ADHD pathway: Diagnosis first revealed lifelong dopamine-seeking and shifting interests
• Autism clarity: ADHD medication made Autistic traits more visible
• Childhood signs: Fascination with computers, photography, and how systems work
• Creative hyperfocus: Photoshop, illustration, and photography as enduring interests
• Performance worlds: Theatre and burlesque communities with strong neurodivergent presence
• Masking awareness: Realising later how much effort social performance required
• Autistic glimmers: Full-body sensory moments of joy and alignment
• Self-compassion: Learning to honour limits and support her own needs

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late diagnosis can bring validation rather than crisis.
• ADHD and autism can mask each other until one becomes clearer.
• Creative communities often offer safer spaces for neurodivergent expression.
• Understanding your neurodivergence can lead to greater self-compassion.
• Trusting your intuition and pattern recognition can guide self-discovery.

📌 Notice Board

• Tigz Website
• Tigz Podcast
• If anyone wants to be photographed by Tigz, you can find the details at https://www.tigzrice.com

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Jenna Goldstein, a late-diagnosed Autistic school psychologist who left the public education system after recognising its incompatibility with neurodiversity-affirming practice.

Jenna first recognised her own autism after her three-year-old daughter was identified. As she turned to Autistic voices for understanding, what began as advocacy for her child became a deeper self-recognition. Within months, she self-identified, and years later sought a formal diagnosis from an Autistic evaluator to connect more dots and model an Autistic identity for her children.

This is a conversation about human rights, blueprint-building, leaving systems that harm, and crafting lives that actually work for autistic nervous systems.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Jenna Goldstein — late-diagnosed Autistic school psychologist; founder of ND3

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Daughter’s diagnosis and late self-recognition
• Discussion: School psychology training and harmful autism narratives
• Unspoken agendas: Budgets, bias, and gatekeeping in public schools
• “Developmental delay” and the myth of the model child
• Leaving public schools and building ND3
• Neurodiversity-affirming family support
• Designing sustainable neurodivergent homes

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Jenna as a late-diagnosed Autistic school psychologist who recognised her own neurodivergence through parenting, and who ultimately left the public school system after concluding it was structurally incompatible with neurodiversity-affirming values.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Jenna’s Story

Jenna first encountered autism when her three-year-old daughter was identified. Dissatisfied with deficit-based descriptions, she sought understanding directly from Autistic adults. As she read first hand accounts, she recognised herself.

She self-identified within six months and later pursued a formal diagnosis with autism, not out of doubt, but to deepen understanding and model Autistic identity for her children.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Autistic recognition: Learning from Autistic voices instead of textbooks
• Medical model critique: Rejecting “defective human” narratives
• Unspoken pressures: Budget constraints influencing eligibility decisions
• Gatekeeping language: “Developmental delay” as catch-all category
• System limits: Realising change from within has ceilings
• Private practice shift: Leaving public schools for ND3
• Human rights lens: Equal dignity for neurodivergent children
• Family sustainability: Peaks, valleys, flexibility, and regulation planning
• Blueprint building: Co-creating neurodivergent life models

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Listening to autistic voices changes everything
• Training does not guarantee understanding
• Systems can be well-intentioned and still harmful
• Budget pressures quietly shape access to support
• Neutral framing reduces shame and blame
• Autistic pride is pride in humanity, not productivity
• Not all systems can be changed from within
• Sustainable lives require intentional design
• You are allowed to leave what harms you

📌 Notice Board

ND3 Instagram

ND3 Website

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Amy Kriewaldt, a late-diagnosed Autistic, ADHD, and PDA mother of three neurodivergent children.

Amy grew up a hyperlexic piano prodigy, praised for talent and performance while quietly navigating sensory overwhelm, situational mutism, perfectionism, and crushing internal expectations. It wasn’t until her children began receiving diagnoses that she started to recognise herself in their traits, and ultimately heard the words that changed everything: “Oh, I think you’re Autistic.”

Together, Angela and Amy explore hyperlexia, auditory processing differences, late self-recognition, self-compassion, memoir writing as a reframing, ADHD medication, self-medication through alcohol and caffeine, and the shift from compliance-based education to connection-centred learning.

This is a conversation about reframing failure, advocating fiercely, rewriting your past, and building systems that support autistic people across the lifespan.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Amy Kriewaldt — late-diagnosed Autistic, ADHD, and PDA advocate; founder of Creewald Academy

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Prodigy pressure, hyperlexia, and sensory overwhelm
• Discussion: Parenting autistic children and recognising yourself
• Auditory processing, situational mutism, and late diagnosis
• ADHD, self-medication, and relief through treatment
• Rewriting childhood through memoir and self-compassion
• Restraint policies, advocacy, and saying “no”

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Amy as a late-diagnosed Autistic and ADHD parent navigating life with three neurodivergent children — all PDA — and building alternatives where traditional systems fall short.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Amy’s Story

Amy describes growing up as the youngest of eight children and a piano prodigy — hyperlexic, musically analytical, and praised for performance. Behind the talent were sensory overload, situational mutism, intense perfectionism, and chronic overwhelm that went unrecognised.

As her children received diagnoses, Amy began to see familiar patterns: auditory processing differences, sensory avoidance, social anxiety, and shutdown.

During a phone call describing how she processes information — needing complete silence to think — her psychologist paused and said, “Oh. I think you’re autistic.”

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Prodigy pressure: Performance, perfectionism, and masking through music
• Parenting mirror: Recognising autistic traits through her children
• Auditory processing: Needing silence to think and work
• ADHD realisation: Chronic lateness, executive dysfunction, and relief through medication
• Self-medication cycle: Alcohol, caffeine, and nervous system swings
• IEP advocacy: “It doesn’t need fixing. It needs supporting.”
• Restraint refusal: Saying no to compliance-based control

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Diagnosis can transform shame into self-compassion
• Failure often reflects unmet needs, not broken character
• Support changes everything
• Advocacy sometimes begins with “No”
• Compliance is not the same as learning
• Children thrive when autonomy is honoured
• Rewriting your past can reprogram your future
• You are not a moral failure for having limits

📌 Notice Board

• Amy Kriewaldt Instagram
• Kriewaldt Academy Instagram
• PDA USA

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Claire Samuels, a proud Autistic speech-language pathologist whose journey to self-recognition unfolded inside the very system she would later question.

Claire began her career as a Registered Behaviour Technician (RBT) in the ABA industry, believing what she was told: that ABA was the gold standard for Autistic children. She loved the kids she worked with and believed she was making a positive impact. But as she read autistic voices, learned about interoception, and began recognising her own sensory and regulatory differences, cracks in the framework began to show.

Together, Angela and Claire explore ABA, nuance, Autistic self-recognition, masking, sensory processing, burnout, and what it means to move from compliance-based therapy to connection-based communication.

This episode is about shifting lenses, from behaviour to nervous systems, from control to connection, and from moral judgment to regulation.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Claire Samuels — Autistic speech-language pathologist

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Theatre kid, masking, and early sensory differences
• Discussion: Entering ABA and believing the gold standard
• Interoception, meltdown empathy, and late self-recognition
• Leaving ABA and shifting from behaviour to environment
• Becoming an SLP: AAC, connection, and child-led therapy
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Claire as a clinician whose story offers a rare inside perspective on ABA. Someone who entered the field with good intentions and left with a deeper understanding of Autistic nervous systems and lived experience.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Claire’s Story

Claire describes herself as a “chameleon” in school, a theatre kid who learned to play the role of “normal” while privately embracing her oddities. She studied psychology to understand how people “people,” navigated burnout in college, and found improv as a regulatory outlet.

After serving in the Peace Corps in The Gambia, she returned to the USA, unsure of her path, but drawn to working with neurodivergent children. A friend introduced her to ABA, promising meaningful work, strong income potential, and the opportunity to work in the “gold standard” of Autism treatment.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• ABA immersion: 40-hour weeks for toddlers and gold-standard messaging
• RBT reality: Minimal training, low pay, no autism coursework required
• Demand maintenance: Repeating instructions during meltdowns until compliance
• Interoception moment: Supervisor unfamiliar with the concept
• Masking realisation: Social media and autistic adult narratives
• Pendulum swing: From “gold standard” to “ABA is abuse” to nuance
• SLP path: Language, connection, AAC, and feature matching
• Child-led therapy: Slower but healthier device relationships
• Self-accommodation: Headphones, fidgets, and nervous system resets
• Autistic joy: Sesame Street, stimming, and public authenticity

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Behaviour is not the whole story
• Good people can work inside broken systems
• Language and connection are cyclical
• Autistic regulation is not a moral failure
• Self-accommodation changes relationships
• Labels serve us — not the other way around

📌 Notice Board

• Loud Hands: Autistic People, Speaking
• Autistic Self-Advocacy Network
• Autism Society of Washington
• Thurston County Inclusion
• Therapeutic Beginnings

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Julie Farrell, a late-diagnosed Autistic and ADHD writer, activist, and co-founder of The Inklusion Guide, a resource dedicated to making literature events accessible to disabled people.

Julie shares her slow, layered journey toward understanding her neurodivergence — from burnout, migraines, and chronic illness labels, to finding herself mirrored in Autistic writers like Katherine May, to sobbing through the documentary Seeing the Unseen and finally knowing in her bones.

Together, Angela and Julie explore masking, shutdowns mislabelled as anxiety, CPTSD, creative identity, freelance work as nervous system regulation, and the relief of receiving a diagnosis in a supportive, affirming environment. They also talk about ADHD medication, menstrual cycle titration, EMDR therapy, and what it feels like to “precipitate out of the hot goo” and become solid for the first time.

This episode is also about Autistic joy — about stars, navigation, grief, and how Julie’s late father taught her to look up at the night sky and find her way.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Julie Farrell — Writer, activist, and late-diagnosed Autistic & ADHD woman

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Burnout, writing communities, and slow recognition
• Discussion: Masking, shutdowns, and anxiety misdiagnosis
• Chronic illness labels, brain fog, and nervous system overwhelm
• Self-identification, late ADHD discovery and medication
• Creativity, rejection sensitivity, and publishing Someone Like Me
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Julie as a writer whose work reclaims Autistic narrative and centres accessibility, creativity, and late discovery. The conversation begins with the power of anthologies — reading other Autistic women’s work and realising, “Oh. That wasn’t just me.”

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Julie’s Story

Julie traces her recognition back to 2018, when she ran a co-writing group in Edinburgh and befriended an openly Autistic man who spoke about burnout cycles. At the time, she didn’t see herself in autism — she was high masking and had internalized generalized anxiety and fibromyalgia diagnoses.

Reading Wintering by Catherine May and later reviewing the documentary Seeing the Unseen became turning points. She describes sobbing at the end of the film and knowing, finally, that she was Autistic.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Masking & shutdowns: Nonverbal shutdowns misinterpreted as panic attacks
• Misdiagnosis: Anxiety and fibromyalgia concealing Autistic burnout
• Burnout at 30: Months unable to leave the sofa; repeated medical dismissal
• Self-ID vs formal diagnosis: The emotional weight of both
• Being believed: “Are you telling me I’m not stupid?”
• ADHD discovery: Hyperactivity, career misalignment, and paid assessment
• Medication: Titration and menstrual cycle adjustments
• Publishing: Invited to contribute to Someone Like Me
• Grief & stars: Writing about her father, navigation, and expansive belonging

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Burnout cycles can be mistaken for anxiety
• Masking can delay self-recognition for years
• Diagnosis can dissolve lifelong shame
• Medication can reshape creative capacity
• Freelance work can be nervous system care
• Autistic joy often lives in special interests

📌 Notice Board

• Inkulsion Guide
• Someone Like Me Anthology
• Julie’s Website
• Wintering by Katherine May

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Helen Shaddock, a multidisciplinary artist, writer, and PhD researcher whose work explores autism, eating distress, OCD, and healing through creativity.

Helen was diagnosed with anorexia at 13 and spent the next 25 years moving through eating-disorder pathways that never fully explained her experience. It wasn’t until her late 30s — after years of treatment, physical injury, and burnout — that an occupational therapist recognised what others had missed: Helen was Autistic.

Helen and Angela explore the long overlap between eating distress, OCD, and autism, how Autistic regulation was repeatedly misread as pathology, and how late diagnosis reframed decades of self-blame. Helen shares her experiences around interoception, stimming, routine, sensory regulation, and the difference between Autistic eating and eating disorder treatment.

This episode is also about creative becoming — how art, writing, and storytelling can be tools for survival, meaning-making, and identity reconstruction.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Helen Shaddock — Autistic multidisciplinary artist, writer, and PhD researcher

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Autism missed across treatment pathways
• CBT, clinical harm, and misinterpretation of Autistic regulation
• Autistic eating vs eating disorder frameworks
• Burnout, grief, and late autism recognition
• Creative becoming through art and storytelling
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomes Helen as a long-standing member of the LDC community and frames the conversation around storytelling, creativity, and late recognition. This meeting emphasises intimacy and pacing — meeting one another “one at a time,” in a way that feels distinctly Autistic.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Helen’s Story

Helen was diagnosed with anorexia at 13 and spent her adolescence and adulthood navigating eating-disorder treatment, CBT, and medical surveillance.

Many Autistic traits, including routine, stimming, sensory sensitivity, and the need for predictability, were interpreted as pathology rather than regulation.

She experienced chronic fatigue in early adolescence, missed significant periods of school, and was bullied. Later injuries, stress fractures, and physical complications were consistently attributed to anorexia, obscuring the role of autism and interoceptive differences.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• 25 years missed: Autism identified at 38 after decades of eating-disorder treatment
• Misinterpretation: Autistic stimming and regulation framed as calorie-burning or compulsion
• Interoception: Pain, hunger, and bladder signals go unnoticed until extreme
• Routine & safety: The difference between Autistic eating and eating distress
• Grief: Mourning the support that could have existed earlier
• Language shift: Choosing “eating distress” over “eating disorder”
• Creative becoming: Identity as fluid, evolving, and reconstructed through art
• ArtEd: Digital storytelling, visual diaries, and community zines

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Eating distress can mask autism — and vice versa
• Late diagnosis can dissolve decades of self-blame
• Autistic regulation is often misunderstood as a disorder
• Creativity is not a luxury — it is a survival tool
• Community reduces isolation and restores dignity

📌 Notice Board

• ArtED Website
• Helen’s Website

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Tara for one of the most difficult and important conversations the Club has held.

⚠️ Content notice: This episode includes discussion of violence, sexual abuse, child harm, and coercive control. Listener discretion is strongly advised. Please pause or skip as needed and take care of yourself.

Tara is a late-diagnosed Autistic woman, a mother, and a survivor of severe childhood abuse, abduction, and exploitation. She shares her story not for shock, but to illuminate how Autistic girls and women are uniquely vulnerable — especially when they grow up without protection, language, or recognition of their neurodivergence.

Together, Angela and Tara explore survival as an Autistic trait, truth-telling as both a strength and a liability, vulnerability to cults and exploitative systems, and the long road to healing through prolonged exposure therapy. Tara’s story is harrowing — but it is also a testament to resilience, instinct, and the life-saving power of being believed.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Tara — late-diagnosed Autistic woman, mother, and survivor

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Abuse, abduction, and survival
• Discussion: Autistic vulnerability and coercive control, misdiagnosis, and being labelled a liar
• Cults, self-help movements, and exploitation
• Prolonged exposure therapy and Late autism self-recognition
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens the meeting with a clear trigger warning and an explanation of the safeguards taken to ensure this conversation was shared safely and consensually. This episode is framed as difficult — but necessary — for Autistic people, particularly women and girls, whose experiences of abuse are often misunderstood or erased.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Tara’s Story

Tara describes knowing she was different from early childhood — hyperlexic, highly intelligent, sensory-sensitive, and deeply compliant. As a CODA, she was placed in adult responsibilities far too young, acting as her mother’s ears while navigating an unsafe home environment.

Family members responded to her Autistic traits with punishment and violence rather than protection. Tara was repeatedly locked away, beaten, and labelled with slurs — experiences that primed her for later exploitation.

At 14, Tara was abducted by adults known to her family. She was held, tortured, and left for dead. No search party was launched. No justice followed. Tara survived through instinct, dissociation, and an extraordinary will to live.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Autistic vulnerability: How isolation, compliance, and literal trust increase risk
• Survival instincts: Autism as a tool for endurance and escape
• Misdiagnosis: Repeatedly labelled with personality disorders
• Cults and self-help: Seeking safety and meaning in exploitative systems
• Prolonged exposure therapy: Ten years of structured trauma processing
• Late autism recognition: Finding language after decades of harm
• Motherhood: Love, rupture, and intergenerational neurodivergence
• Justice: Living without it — and learning how to go on

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Autistic girls are especially vulnerable when their differences go unprotected
• Being articulate does not prevent exploitation
• Truth-telling can be punished in unsafe systems
• Misdiagnosis can cause as much harm as no diagnosis
• Self-diagnosis can be life-saving

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Abbey Thompson — a librarian, classically trained vocalist, prize-winning baker, gamer, social justice bard, and self-described random fact machine.

Abbey is a fat, queer, neurodivergent woman living in Los Angeles with two orange cats and a deep commitment to creativity without perfection.

Diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s and later recognising she was also Autistic, Abbey describes how finally naming her neurodivergence didn’t just bring understanding — it brought permission. Permission to be loud, to be big, to be joyful, to be mediocre, and to exist without apology.

Together, Angela and Abbey explore late identification, fatness and bullying, perfectionism, burnout, AuDHD, creativity as regulation, and the radical act of letting go of shame. This episode is an invitation to stop fixing yourself — and start living.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Abbey Thompson — AuDHD librarian, vocalist, baker, and creator of the Mediocre Arts and Crafts Club

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Masking, bullying, and being “too much”
• Discussion: Late diagnosis, burnout, friendship, fatness, queerness, and shame
• Sensory processing, burnout, animals, justice sensitivity, and belonging
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Abbey as someone whose life defies neat categories — librarian, opera singer, baker, gamer, and cat enthusiast — all in one person. From the outset, this conversation sets aside productivity and leans into permission: to be multifaceted, messy, and fully yourself.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Abbey’s Story

Abbey describes growing up as a high-achieving, compliant student who internalised bullying and othering — largely attributing friendship difficulties to being fat in a culture that relentlessly punished difference.

Early signs of neurodivergence, including hyperfocus, rigidity, gullibility, sensory sensitivity, and being “too loud,” were reframed for decades as personal flaws. Only later did Abbey come to understand these traits through an Autistic and ADHD lens — one that offered compassion instead of criticism.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Late diagnosis: ADHD and autism identified in Abbey’s 40s
• Burnout: Years of overachievement, graduate school, and unrecognised exhaustion
• Masking: Being capable on the outside while struggling internally
• Fatness & bullying: How body stigma obscured neurodivergence
• Creativity as regulation: Singing, baking, crafting, and making for joy
• Mediocre Arts and Crafts Club: Creating without perfection or monetisation
• Shame: Letting go of self-policing and internalised judgment
• Community: Belonging as protection and healing

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Competence can hide profound struggle
• Shame is not a motivator — it’s a barrier
• Creativity doesn’t need to be perfect to be meaningful
• Late diagnosis can offer forgiveness, not just answers
• Community helps return shame to where it belongs
• You don’t need permission to exist — but it helps when you finally give it to yourself

📌 Notice Board

• Abbey’s Instagram
• Mediocre Arts & Crafts Club

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Sarma Melngailis, a late-identified Autistic woman whose life unfolded in public long before she had language for her neurodivergence.

Sarma was once a celebrated New York restaurateur and entrepreneur. Years later, she became the subject of global scrutiny following a highly publicised documentary that framed her story through scandal rather than context. She was not diagnosed as Autistic until age 51, after everything had already happened.

In this conversation, Sarma speaks candidly about sensory overwhelm, being misread as cold or suspicious, vulnerability to coercive control, and how not knowing she was Autistic shaped her relationships, business decisions, and sense of self. This episode is not about scandal — it’s about what happens when a life is interpreted through the wrong lens, and what becomes possible when the right one finally arrives.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Sarma Melngailis — late-identified Autistic author and entrepreneur

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Public success without private understanding
• Discussion: Late diagnosis, vulnerability, and coercive control
• Being misread: affect, communication, and media narratives
• Sensory processing, burnout, leadership, animals, justice sensitivity, and belonging
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Sarma as a member whose story was widely told before it was widely understood. While the public narrative focused on spectacle and suspicion, Sarma’s lived experience was shaped by sensory overwhelm, misinterpretation, and deep vulnerability — all without the context of an autism diagnosis.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Sarma’s Story

Sarma describes growing up feeling different without knowing why, gravitating toward misfits and animals, and navigating adulthood with intense sensory sensitivity and a strong drive toward justice and care.

Her autism was first suggested not by clinicians, but by viewers of a documentary who recognised themselves in her, many of them late-diagnosed Autistic adults.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Late diagnosis at 51: Recognition after public life and collapse
• Misinterpretation: Flat affect, pauses, and Autistic communication framed as guilt or deception
• Coercive control: How Autistic trust and literal thinking increase vulnerability
• Being “seen”: Why manipulative attention can feel like understanding
• Public narratives: Harm caused by edited stories and missing context
• Sensory overload: Sound, scent, and cumulative exhaustion in high-pressure environments
• Animals and connection: Deep attachment as regulation and grounding
• Safeguards: Learning to listen to trusted outsiders and name red flags

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Not knowing you’re Autistic can increase vulnerability to exploitation
• Being articulate and successful does not protect against harm
• Autistic affect is often misread through a moral lens
• Clarity does not erase the past — but it can soften self-blame
• Community and outside perspective are protective factors
• Having language for your nervous system changes what you tolerate

📌 Notice Board

People Magazine — Sarma Melngailis on Autism Diagnosis

Sarma Melngailis on Instagram

The Girl with the Duck Tattoo — Book Website

Sarma Raw — Personal Website

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes George Watts, a neurodivergent researcher, parent, and PhD candidate whose path into autism research began before realising they were autistic themselves.

George first studied autism from the outside, absorbing dominant behavioural frameworks and evidence-based models that promised to “help” Autistic people. It wasn’t until they encountered Autistic voices, community, and their own reflection in the literature that their understanding — and their life — fundamentally shifted.

Together, Angela and George explore late identification, burnout, childbirth, internalised deficit models, the harm of behaviourism, and what becomes possible when Autistic people stop being studied in isolation and start building community together. This episode centres Autistic quality of life — not as an abstract metric, but as a lived, relational experience grounded in belonging, autonomy, and joy.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: George Watts — Autistic researcher, PhD candidate, and parent

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Childhood signs without diagnosis
• Discussion: Burnout, childbirth, late identification, unlearning behaviourism and deficit-based models
• Autistic parenting and education research shaped by lived experience
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces George as a researcher whose academic path into autism began long before they understood their own neurodivergence. Early training framed autism as a problem to be fixed — with behavioural intervention positioned as the solution. This episode traces what happens when that framework begins to crack.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: George’s Story

George returned to university as a mature student, studying autism after years of precarious work, burnout, and unrecognised neurodivergence. As they immersed themselves in autism literature, moments of resonance accumulated — until self-recognition became unavoidable.

Childbirth, sensory overload, and years of misattributed mental health struggles came into focus through a new lens. What had once been framed as personal failure or psychological fragility was re-understood as the cost of navigating a world not built for Autistic nervous systems.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Late identification: Studying autism before recognising it in yourself
• Burnout and childbirth: Sensory overwhelm and unmet support needs
• Community as intervention: Autistic people supporting each other
• Quality of life: Shifting research focus from causes and cures to belonging
• Autistic parenting: Reducing unnecessary demands and honouring regulation
• Research from the inside: Autistic-led questions shaping the field

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Understanding autism can reframe decades of self-blame
• Behavioural compliance is not the same as well-being
• Quality of life looks different for Autistic people — and should be defined by them
• Community and belonging are not extras; they are foundational
• Autistic-led research changes what we ask — and what matters

📌 Notice Board

George Watts — YouTube talk

Autism Studies (FutureLearn course)

Research paper: A Certain Magic

Grove Neurodivergent Mentoring and Educating

Autistic Quality of Life Measure (ASQoL)

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Julie M. Green, a writer, Autistic mother, and late-identified Autistic woman whose self-recognition unfolded through parenting. Julie’s story begins not with her own diagnosis, but with her son’s. As she learned how to support an Autistic child, she slowly began to recognise familiar patterns in herself — sensory sensitivity, rigidity, perfectionism, chronic illness, and lifelong shyness that had always been framed as personality flaws rather than neurodivergence.

Together, Angela and Julie explore maternal guilt, masking across decades, self- and formal diagnosis, and what changes — and what doesn’t — when you finally have language for your nervous system.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Julie M. Green — Autistic writer, Author, and mother

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Childhood signs without diagnosis
• Discussion: Parenting an autistic child while recognising autism in yourself
• Masking, perfectionism, and decades of mislabeling
• Self-diagnosis, formal diagnosis, and imposter syndrome
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Julie as a member whose story begins in a paediatrician’s office — not for herself, but for her son. What started as advocacy and research quickly became a mirror, reflecting traits Julie had carried since childhood but never had language for.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Julie’s Story

Julie grew up in the 1970s and 80s as a highly anxious, perfectionistic, and extremely shy child. Changes in routine triggered meltdowns, collections were rigidly organised, and sensory sensitivities shaped daily life — all framed at the time as personality flaws or the result of being an only child.

In school, Julie was quiet, compliant, and high-achieving. Anxiety and perfectionism were invisible to teachers, while internal distress went unnamed.

Years later, as a first-time mother, Julie struggled with sensory overload, shutdowns, and intense guilt. When her son was diagnosed with autism at age three, Julie immersed herself in research — first to support him, and eventually to understand herself.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Masking and mislabeling: Shyness, rigidity, and perfectionism framed as flaws
• Maternal guilt: Internalising blame for sensory overwhelm and burnout
• Self-recognition: Seeing autistic traits through parenting without immediately claiming identity
• Diagnosis decisions: Self-diagnosis, formal assessment, and imposter syndrome
• Disclosure: Navigating silence, validation, and scepticism from others
• Autistic parenting: Modelling boundaries, regulation, and self-advocacy

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Autism can become visible through caregiving before self-recognition
• Compliance and quiet achievement often hide distress
• Formal diagnosis may change nothing — and everything
• Self-diagnosis is valid; seeking assessment is a personal choice
• Modelling boundaries is a powerful form of parenting
• Understanding yourself can reduce shame across generations

📌 Notice Board

Link for Julie’s book: Motherness: A Memoir of Generational Autism, Parenthood, and Radical Acceptance

Julie’s Substack: https://theautisticmom.substack.com/

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Becca Engle, an Autistic educator, author, and advocate whose early disability was recognised, but whose autism was not fully named until adulthood.

Becca was identified as disabled at age three and was once non-speaking. She was repeatedly told she would never be independent, never succeed academically, and never become a teacher. Instead, she grew up navigating education systems that focused on compliance over understanding — systems that demanded silence, masking, and endurance rather than support.

Together, Angela and Becca explore early childhood diagnosis without clarity, the harm of behaviour-based interventions, masking in higher education, autistic anger as a catalyst for advocacy, and what it means to design learning environments that support regulation rather than control.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Becca Engle — Autistic educator, author, and disability advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Early childhood diagnosis and being “almost autistic”
• Discussion: Masking, compliance, and exclusion in education systems
• Regulation, classroom design, and alternatives to seclusion
• Key learnings
• Club announcements🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Becca as someone whose autism was visible early but never fully acknowledged. Despite being labelled with multiple developmental diagnoses, Becca’s needs were misunderstood, and expectations for her future were set painfully low.

What followed was not support, but pressure to conform.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Becca’s Story

Becca was diagnosed at age three with conditions that stopped short of autism and was repeatedly told she would never speak, learn independently, or attend school. Early intervention included speech therapy, occupational therapy, and exposure to behaviour-based systems that relied on control and seclusion.

Years later, in college, Becca was told she was “too autistic” to teach. She graduated anyway — and later pursued further credentials outside traditional pathways.

Becca formally received an autism diagnosis in adulthood, bringing clarity, legitimacy, and permission to name what had always been true.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Early diagnosis without clarity: Being labelled disabled but not autistic shaped expectations and access to support
• Compliance over care: Behaviour systems prioritised obedience rather than regulation or understanding
• Masking in higher education: Silence was rewarded; authenticity was punished
• Anger as fuel: Advocacy emerged not from inspiration, but from injustice
• Regulation-focused classrooms: Becca describes her three-zone regulation model as an alternative to calm corners, seclusion, and PBIS
• Stimming and creativity: Writing, knitting, and movement as regulation — not distraction

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Early identification without understanding can still cause harm
• Compliance systems teach masking, not self-regulation
• Silencing autistic communication is often framed as professionalism
• Anger can be an appropriate and productive response to injustice
• When environments change, people don’t have to disappear to succeed

📌 Notice Board

Becca’s Social Media:

• Instagram: @StitchesStanzas

• Facebook: Becca Engle / Stitches & Stanzas

Becca’s Books:

• Step Into My Shoes: https://a.co/d/hJRVXSG

• Through Our Lens series: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G3XQZ8KV

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Monique Lindner — a late-identified Autistic woman whose life once revolved around relentless achievement, overwork, and endurance.

Monique was a high-performing systems thinker, corporate leader, and entrepreneur who learned early how to push through trauma, chronic pain, sleep deprivation, and sensory overload. What finally cracked the façade wasn’t a dramatic breakdown — it was a slow unravelling, followed by a single, unexpected question from her book editor that sent her down a ten-month path toward understanding her neurodivergence.

Together, Angela and Monique explore late identification, masking, Autistic burnout, trauma, friendship loss, unmasking, psychic pattern-matching, and what happens when you stop explaining yourself and start protecting your nervous system.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Monique Lindner — Late-identified Autistic writer, entrepreneur, and systems thinker

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Monique’s pre-diagnosis life
• Discussion: Burnout, trauma, masking, and loss after unmasking
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Monique as someone whose life looked successful on the outside — leadership roles, global travel, financial stability — while quietly exacting a devastating cost on her nervous system. What finally brought clarity wasn’t collapse alone, but permission to question why survival had become the baseline.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Monique’s Story

Monique spent decades pushing through exhaustion, trauma, and sensory overload without understanding why it cost her so much. Her autism went unrecognised until the pandemic revealed how much relief she felt in solitude. A question from her book editor finally gave her language for her burnout, intuition, and need for boundaries.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• High achievement as masking: Leadership, overwork, and perfectionism hid severe sensory and emotional costs.
• Late identification: A book editor’s observation opened a ten-month self-identification process.
• Unmasking fallout: Friendships ended when Monique began asking for basic accommodations.
• Autistic burnout: Multiple collapses following trauma, surgery, and prolonged stress.
• Pattern-matching & intuition: Monique describes deep knowing, heightened perception, and intuitive clarity as Autistic strengths.
• Boundaries as survival: Learning when to stop explaining and start protecting herself.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Survival skills can look like success — until they stop working.
• Unmasking may cost relationships, but it preserves health.
• Asking for accommodations often reveals who was benefiting from your silence.
• Pattern-matching and intuition are forms of Autistic intelligence.
• Trusting yourself is a radical act after years of dismissal.

📌 Notice Board

• Monique’s Website: moniquelindner.com
• Monique’s Substack: moniquelindner.substack.com

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon sits down with Sean Hawthorne, a late-identifying Autistic adult who is still in the very middle of discovery — not the end of the journey. Sean spent decades performing a socially acceptable version of himself: the reliable friend, the focused finance professional, the guy who shaped his interests to fit in and kept his sensory overwhelm hidden. But in 2021, a catastrophic burnout forced him to confront a truth he could no longer outrun.

Together, Angela and Sean explore autistic burnout, somatic reconnection, cultural and religious messaging, unmasking, identity, self-diagnosis, and the relief of realising you were never broken — you were misunderstood.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Sean Hawthorne — Self-diagnosed Autistic adult navigating late discovery

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Sean’s early clues
• Discussion: Burnout, masking, religion, culture & re-learning the body
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela introduces Sean as someone still in process — mid-discovery, mid-unmasking, mid-clarity — reflecting the reality that Autistic identification can take years, even a decade, to understand fully.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Sean’s Story

Sean’s earliest clues were sensory processing difficulties so intense that he sometimes froze, unable to respond to teachers who insisted he “just answer.” He excelled academically only when placed in a smaller, more patient classroom — a sign of undiscovered neurodivergence that went unnoticed.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Sensory overwhelm: Freezing in classrooms, noise sensitivity, overstimulation.
• Masking: Clubs, alcohol, social rules, performing “acceptable” masculinity.
• Cultural & religious pressure: Caribbean/Christian frameworks that framed distress as spiritual or disciplinary issues.
• Burnout: Losing mobility, shutting down, thinking it was “a lack of discipline.”
• Somatic reconnection: Learning interoception, feeling his body’s signals for the first time.
• Self-diagnosis: Valid, grounded, and life-saving.
• Intersectionality: Autistic burnout in the context of Blackness, surveillance, and systemic injustice.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Being dismissed doesn’t mean you were wrong — it means you were unseen.
• Masking becomes a personality, not a strategy.
• Burnout often looks like failure until you have the right language.
• Self-identification can save lives long before formal diagnosis is accessible.
• Reconnecting with the body is disorienting — but also a homecoming.
• Autistic adults aren’t fragile; we’re deprived of support.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this week’s meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Georgina Banks - Autistic, ADHD, chronically ill, and the founder & CEO of AuDHD UK, a suicide-prevention charity reshaping access to diagnosis and support across the UK.

Georgina spent nearly a decade searching for answers while doctors dismissed her chronic illness, sensory overwhelm, and burnout as “anxiety.” In today’s conversation, she shares how late discovery helped her finally understand her body, her needs, and her mission — and how she turned personal pain into a national effort to save neurodivergent lives and to support hundreds of adults still fighting to be believed.

This episode includes a discussion of suicide. Please listen with care.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Georgina Banks — Autistic & ADHD founder of AuDHD UK

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Georgina’s late identification
• Discussion: chronic illness, dismissal, and Autistic burnout
• Building AuDHD UK & suicide prevention
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens with a truth many late-identified Autistic adults know deeply:

We often spend years trying to survive systems that don’t recognise what’s happening to us.

Georgina’s story shows how dangerous that invisibility can be — and how powerful clarity becomes once we have it.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Georgina’s story

At 15, Georgina became severely ill while preparing for GCSEs. Doctors insisted it was “stress.”

At 19, a gastroenterologist noted she had “a hint of Asperger’s.”

At 20, she was officially diagnosed Autistic. ADHD would come years later, after burnout and shutdowns became impossible to ignore.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Misdiagnosed for years: Chronic illness, shutdowns, and sensory collapses dismissed as “anxiety.”
• Autistic traits overlooked: Literal thinking, tics, clumsiness, non-verbal episodes, sensory pain.
• Unmasking & regression: After diagnosis, lifelong compensations fell away.
• Founding AuDHD UK: Building a suicide-prevention charity offering assessments and weekly peer-support groups for undiagnosed adults who cannot afford private pathways.
• Why diagnosis access matters: Not for a label — but for safety, language, stability, and belonging.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Being unseen by the system does not mean you were wrong about yourself.
• Burnout, shutdown, and sensory overwhelm can masquerade as “anxiety.”
• Identification is a turning point, not the end point.
• Suicide prevention begins with validation, access, and community.
• Neurodivergent people design better support systems when they lead them.

📌 Notice Board

AuDHD UK — https://audhduk.org

The suicide-prevention charity founded by Georgina. AuDHD UK provides subsidised diagnostic assessments, weekly peer-support groups, and advocacy for neurodivergent adults who cannot safely or affordably access traditional diagnosis pathways.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Mike Matthews — a late-diagnosed Autistic dad, writer, music obsessive, and dry-witted survivor of misdiagnosis, medical gaslighting, and five years of unanswered burnout.

Together, Angela and Mike explore the messy middle between “something is wrong” and “oh — it’s autism,” the years lost to misunderstanding, the grief and relief of late self-discovery, and the unexpected joy of building a life that actually fits.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Mike Matthews — Autistic dad, writer, punk enthusiast & playlist archivist

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Mike’s misdiagnosis journey
• Discussion: Burnout, sensory life, stigma & spirals
• Member spotlight: Autistic creativity, playlists & book writing
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomes listeners into a story many late-diagnosed adults know too well: years of searching for answers, a system that keeps missing us, and the emotional cost of untreated Autistic burnout disguised as “depression.” Mike’s path began after becoming a parent — when suddenly the time he used for emotional regulation evaporated, and everything fell apart.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Mike's story

From the very first doctor visit, Mike’s concerns were waved away, misread, or treated with trial-and-error medications that created new problems rather than solving the old ones.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Five years of misdiagnosis: burnout mistaken for depression, sensory issues overlooked, and a formal evaluation that labelled him with the wrong disorder.
• Medication mishaps: antidepressants causing side effects, withdrawal “brain zaps,” and treatments that obscured the real issue — autistic burnout.
• Grief and relief: mourning the lost years while embracing clarity, self-knowledge, and a gentler relationship with himself and others.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Autistic burnout is not depression — and treating it as such can prolong suffering.
• Misdiagnosis is common, especially when sensory experiences are ignored.
• Self-knowledge changes everything

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Amber Covucci — a late-diagnosed Autistic attorney, mother of two, and brilliant pattern-matcher who spent decades thinking she was “just sensitive” before discovering she was Autistic in her mid-30s.

Together, Angela and Amber explore Autistic motherhood, masking, sensory life, high-achieving burnout, and raising neurodivergent kids while still learning how to accommodate their own needs.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Amber Covucci — Autistic attorney, writer, and mother

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Amber’s Autistic childhood & early masking
• Discussion: Pregnancy, postpartum, sensory overwhelm & burnout
• Key learnings
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomes listeners into a conversation many Autistic mothers rarely hear reflected: what happens when your mask collapses under the sensory, emotional, and logistical weight of early parenthood.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Amber’s story

From childhood, Amber felt different: intensely focused (“too much attention disorder”), deeply sensitive, academically exceptional, and physically overwhelmed by clothing, noise, and transitions.

Despite high achievement — gifted programs, top grades, law school — she also experienced chronic burnout, shutdowns, and sensory barriers nobody recognised as Autistic traits.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Missed Signs: Sensory overwhelm, hyperfocus, and lifelong burnout are misunderstood.
• Pregnancy & Postpartum: What looked like “postpartum anxiety” was Autistic burnout.
• Birth & Autonomy: Sensory-safe support and control made labour manageable.
• Work & Burnout: Deep-focus strengths paired with crash-level recovery needs.
• Autistic Parenting: New language and compassion for her own and her children’s needs.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late diagnosis brings relief, not limitation
• Sensory overwhelm is not weakness — it’s information
• Autistic parents can be extraordinary caregivers
• You can redesign your life once you understand your brain
• Diagnosis isn’t necessary for belonging — self-knowledge is

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon sits down with Aletha Shapiro, a mother of four, activist, costume designer, and creator of Autistic/ADHD pride, whose recent appearance on Bravo's Wife Swap: Housewives Edition became a masterclass in what happens when reality TV meets neurodivergent truth-telling.

Together, Angela and Aletha unpack late diagnosis, self-advocacy, reality TV ethics, gatekeeping, burnout, and the liberation that comes from finally understanding your neurodivergence. This one is a ride.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Aletha Shapiro — Autistic + ADHD activist, mother of four, and costume designer.

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Aletha’s ADHD → Autism discovery
• Discussion: Reality TV, erasure, burnout, boundaries, and activism
• Key learnings from the meeting
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens by explaining why this week has been “epic” for Aletha — and why every late-diagnosed person will recognise the pattern:

boldness → vulnerability → erasure by non-autistic systems. Reality TV found a way to turn generosity into humiliation.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Alethea’s story

Aletha discovered her ADHD first — and cried when she learned the truth. But once she understood it, everything clicked. When she later discovered she was Autistic, the whole picture made sense.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Aletha wanted to represent neurodivergent moms on national TV — to model low-demand parenting, sensory regulation, special interests as self-care, and Autistic strengths.
• Though producers reassured her it would be “feel-good TV,” the final cut removed every mention of her Autism and ADHD.
• Aletha was blindsided by a confrontational setup not disclosed ahead of filming.
• Animals, crocheting, crafts, concerts — all essential for emotional regulation.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late discovery brings clarity, boundaries, and liberation.
• Neurodivergent people belong in media — without being erased.
• Gatekeeping diagnosis causes harm and delays belonging.
• Representation matters — especially for Autistic parents.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Amy Permann, a writer and Substack creator who discovered she’s Autistic in her 50s after decades of burnout, people-pleasing, and perfectionism.

Together, Angela and Amy discuss self-diagnosis, trusting intuition, unlearning pressure, and why self-acceptance is a radical act of care.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Amy Permann — Autistic writer and creator of Seeking Authenticity

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Amy’s journey from “good girl” to self-advocate
• Discussion: Misdiagnosis, boundaries, and self-trust
• Key learnings from the meeting
• Club announcements🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens by asking: What happens when your entire life is built around expectations that were never yours?

She welcomes Amy as a club member who’s learning to unlearn—redefining success, self-care, and what it means to live authentically.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Amy’s Story

After years of therapy and being the “good daughter,” Amy learned she was Autistic — not broken, not oversensitive.

Her diagnosis followed her niece’s, sparking a journey through online communities, self-assessment, and finally, a validating experience.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Parentified and People-Pleasing: How early responsibility shaped Amy’s self-image.
• The Good Girl Mask: Why pressure isn’t a motivator — and why saying no is survival.
• Trusting Your Own Intuition: Unlearning the habit of assuming others know best.
• Medical Gaslighting & Boundaries: Why autistic women often stop seeking care — and how Amy’s learning to ask questions again.
• Living Authentically: From checklist living to joyful presence — finding beauty in small moments, cats, and nature.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• You can’t heal by pleasing everyone.
• Autistic women deserve support that trusts their self-knowledge.
• Self-diagnosis and formal diagnosis are equally valid paths to clarity.
• Living authentically means honouring your timing, your needs, and your truth.

📣 Club Announcements

🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.

📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions

💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes artist and illustrator Phoenix Goodson, whose journey through misdiagnosis, hospitalisation, and burnout eventually led to a powerful late diagnosis of autism and ADHD.

Together, they explore how Phoenix rebuilt her life through art, self-advocacy, and community — turning survival into creativity, and chaos into colour.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Phoenix Goodson — Autistic/ADHD artist, illustrator, and memoirist from the UK

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Phoenix’s 15-year road from misdiagnosis to discovery
• Discussion: Healing, identity, and art as sanctuary
• Key learnings from the meeting
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomed attendees and introduced Phoenix as this week’s guest. Angela highlighted the importance of recognising misdiagnosis as a barrier to care and community connection.

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Phoenix's Story

Phoenix shares her experience of 15 years of psychiatric misdiagnosis before discovering she is AuDHD. She reflects on how art, writing, and structure became essential tools for healing and communication.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• The impact of repeated misdiagnosis on self-worth and identity.
• The role of creativity in rebuilding trust in oneself.
• How community spaces can offer safety and validation for AuDHD adults.
• The importance of accessible language when talking about neurodivergence.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Misdiagnosis can delay self-understanding, but doesn’t erase it.
• Creative practice supports emotional regulation and belonging.
• Autistic and ADHD experiences often overlap — support needs to reflect that.
• Late discovery can mark the beginning of self-trust, not the end of struggle.

📌 Notice BoardInto The Light — by Phoenix Goodson

A luminous, textural piece exploring self-discovery, resilience, and the transition from survival to creative freedom.

💷 Price: £895 — Foil and acrylic paint on canvas board, includes professional framing and UK postage.

For purchase or exhibition enquiries, don't hesitate to get in touch with Phoenix directly: phoenixgoodsonart@gmail.com

📣 Club Announcements

• 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on all major podcast platforms.
• 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.
• 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions
• 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com

🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com

📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

View Details

Welcome to the first official meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club — the podcast for anyone who discovered their neurodivergence later in life.

Hosted by Dr. Angela Kingdon, this episode features artist and activist Sarah Davies, who shares how she went from a dyslexia diagnosis in childhood to discovering her autism at 34.

Together, Angela and Sarah discuss identity, unmasking, self-advocacy, and what it means to call yourself a “neurodivergent baddie.”

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr. Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Sarah Davies — Autistic and Dyslexic artist, campaigner, and community organiser from Wales

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

1. Opening remarks from the Chair
2. Member introduction: Sarah’s late diagnosis story
3. Discussion: Life before and after diagnosis
4. Key learnings from the meeting
5. Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela welcomed listeners to The Late Diagnosis Club — a space where Autistic and Neurodivergent adults can find community, connection, and conversation.

“We’re not here to fix ourselves — we’re here to find each other.”

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Sarah’s Story

Sarah shared how she first identified as Dyslexic in school, but didn’t receive her autism diagnosis until age 34. She described years of masking, burnout, and finally, the relief of understanding her neurotype.

“It wasn’t that I was too much — I was just trying to fit into the wrong room.”

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• Dopamine Dressing: Using bright colours and creative expression as self-regulation and joy.
• Hyperfocus for Healing: How her curiosity about GLP-1 science helped her reconnect with her body.
• Activism & Advocacy: From campaigning against the UK “bedroom tax” to founding Wrexham’s local Autistic meetup group.
• Community as Medicine: Why Autistic friendships feel grounding, not draining.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late diagnosis is an act of self-compassion, not correction.
• Autistic joy thrives in community, not conformity.
• Humour and authenticity are radical tools for survival.
• Self-advocacy begins with knowing what you need — and believing you deserve it.

🔗 Links

Wrexham Adults Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1JjoEtEwcg/?mibextid=wwXIfr%0A

📣 Club Announcements

• 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.
• 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.
• 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr. Angela Kingdon welcomes technologist and advocate Derek Crager, who discovered he was Autistic and ADHD at age 50 — after decades of burnout, masking, and surviving unsafe workplaces.

Derek shares how that late diagnosis changed everything: his relationships, his leadership at Amazon, and his mission to build Pocket Mentor, a voice-based AI tool that helps real humans — not “ideal employees” — get the support they need in the moment they need it.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr. Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Derek Crager — Autistic/ADHD technologist, founder of Pocket Mentor, and author of Human First AI

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

1. Opening remarks from the Chair
2. Member introduction: Derek’s 10-year road to diagnosis
3. Discussion: Work, masking, and Autistic safety
4. Key learnings from the meeting
5. Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens the meeting by reminding listeners:

“You’re allowed to take ten years to get here. We saved you a seat.”

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Derek’s Story

Derek describes decades of dangerous job sites and social isolation before finally receiving his autism and ADHD diagnoses at 50. Realising his brain wasn’t broken — just wired for depth and precision — gave him permission to stop apologising for his curiosity.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• From Surviving to Designing: How Derek turned his late diagnosis into an advantage at work.
• Human-First AI: Building tech that adapts to people, not the other way around.
• Autistic Belonging: Creating relationships and workplaces that honour honesty and safety.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Late diagnosis brings clarity, not limitation.
• Autistic design principles benefit everyone.
• Authenticity at work is psychological safety in action.

🔗 Links

• Web: https://www.practicalai.app
• New Book: https://www.humanfirstai.net (Free Chapter)

📣 Club Announcements

• 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on all major podcast platforms.
• 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.
• 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr. Angela Kingdon welcomes Lily George, a 25-year-old Autistic mental health worker who was first misdiagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder before realising she is Autistic.

Lily shares what it’s like to work inside the psychiatric system as an Autistic person — supporting others while still learning to support herself. Together, Angela and Lily discuss late diagnosis, unmasking, accommodations, and what happens when you finally start to live as your authentic self.

🪑 Attendees

Chair: Dr. Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate

Guest: Lily George — Autistic mental health worker and late-diagnosed self-advocate

You: The Listener!

🗒️ Meeting Agenda

• Opening remarks from the Chair
• Member introduction: Lily’s path from misdiagnosis to clarity
• Discussion: Mental health, masking, and self-advocacy at work
• Key learnings from the meeting
• Club announcements

🧾 Minutes from the Meeting

1️⃣ Opening Remarks

Angela opens the meeting by acknowledging how often Autistic women and AFAB people are misdiagnosed before finding the right language for who they are.

“Sometimes it’s not that we missed the signs — it’s that the system wasn’t built to see us.”

2️⃣ Member Introduction: Lily’s Story

Lily was diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder in her teens and spent years believing she was “too emotional” or “too much.” When a therapist suggested she might be Autistic, everything shifted. She began exploring her neurotype, pursuing formal diagnosis for workplace accommodations, and finding self-acceptance through Autistic community.

3️⃣ Discussion Highlights

• From Misdiagnosis to Understanding: Why BPD and autism are often confused — especially for women and AFAB people.
• The Autistic Worker in a Psychiatric System: Supporting others while masking your own needs.
• Unmasking and Regression: Why things you used to force yourself to do may feel impossible once you stop masking.
• Self-Advocacy: Asking for adjustments and understanding in a clinical workplace.
• Autistic Joy: Pattern-matching, special interests, and rediscovering comfort in authenticity.

4️⃣ Key Learnings

• Misdiagnosis delays belonging, not identity.
• Self-identification can be just as valid as formal diagnosis.
• Autistic people make better systems when they’re allowed to be themselves.
• You don’t have to be fully “figured out” to start helping others.

🔗 Links

Follow Lily at her Life with Lily YouTube channel

📣 Club Announcements

• 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on all major podcast platforms.
• 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club.
• 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds.

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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🎉 Introducing the Autistic Culture Podcast NetworkWhat started as one show — The Autistic Culture Podcast — has grown into something bigger: the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, the first podcast network created by and for autistic people.

Across our shows, we celebrate autistic voices, stories, and culture — because being autistic isn’t just a diagnosis, it’s a community, a worldview, and something worth celebrating.

🎙️ Current Shows:

• Autistic Culture (OG)
• Autistic Advocacy (OG Fridays)
• Neurodivergent Narratives
• Autistic Culture 101
• Late Diagnosis Club — launching Halloween 🎃

And that’s just the beginning. In January 2026, a new edition of The Autistic Culture Podcast premieres — exploring the creativity, history, and heart of autistic culture.

💫 Support Autistic-Led MediaJoin Autistic Culture Plus for ad-free listening, early access, and an exclusive archive of ~100 classic episodes.

Every membership helps:

🎧 Fund neurodivergent creators

🌍 Amplify autistic voices

💡 Build culture, not pathology

🤝 Support accessible, sensory-friendly storytelling

For less than the price of a coffee, you can help sustain a growing network that’s 100% by and for neurodivergent people.

🎙️ Pitch Your ShowHave a podcast — or an idea for one — that celebrates autistic or neurodivergent life?

We’re now accepting pitches for new and established shows created by autistic and neurodivergent people.

Whether you’re an experienced podcaster or just starting out, we’ll help you bring your vision to life with technical support, mentorship, and promotion through the network.

📩 Pitch your show: info@autisticculturepodcast.com

💜 With GratitudeA huge thank-you to our founding supporters of Autistic Culture Plus, who believed in this network before it even launched.

Our Executive Producers make this work possible — funding neurodivergent creators, amplifying autistic voices, and helping build a media ecosystem rooted in pride, creativity, and community.

These members form the foundation of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network, and you’ll see their names credited at the end of our shows and on our website.

Executive Producers:

Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

💫 Join now to be credited as a Producer on our shows — and help fund autistic-led media that celebrates our voices, stories, and culture.

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Welcome to The Late Diagnosis Club, a brand new show from the Autistic Culture Podcast Network!

The Late Diagnosis Club is a podcast by and for adults who found they were neurodivergent later-in-life. Hosted by Story Steward Dr. Angela Kingdon, this show features honest conversations with neurodivergent guests navigating the identity shock of late diagnosis or self-identification. Each episode explores neurodivergent traits through a cultural lens, debunks stereotypes, and offers solidarity for those processing family dynamics, unmasking, and reclaiming long-buried SPINs. Whether you’re self-identified or medically diagnosed, this club has been saving you a seat and helps you feel at home in your neurodivergent self.

Autistic Culture is now the Autistic Culture Podcast Network — five shows live, more on the way — all created by and for neurodivergent people.

We’re also launching Autistic Culture Plus on Supercast, where you can listen ad-free, get early access, binge full series, and unlock our exclusive archive of earlier episodes.

Founding Listener Offer:

• Join now for £0.99/month (80% off) and be listed as an Executive Producer on our site and show credits. You’ll keep that price as long as you stay subscribed!
• On 24 Oct, the price moves to £2.50, and on 31 Oct (Halloween) the standard rate begins: £5/month or £50/year.

Included with Autistic Culture Plus:

• Ad-free listening (sensory-friendly)

• Early access to every episode

• Binge-able themed series

• Exclusive archive of ~100 classic episodes

• Executive Producer credit for founding members

Key Dates:

🗓️ Now — Founding offer live (£0.99)

🗓️ 24 Oct — Trailer drops, price rises to £2.50

🗓️ 31 Oct — Virtual Halloween launch + Late Diagnosis Club premiere

🗓️ Jan 2026 — New Autistic Culture series launches (members binge early!)

Current Shows:

• Autistic Culture (OG)
• Autistic Advocacy (OG Fridays)
• Neurodivergent Narrative
• Autistic Culture 101
• Late Diagnosis Club - Interview show launching Halloween

🎉 Join Autistic Culture Plus: autisticculture.supercast.com

🎃 RSVP to the Halloween party: autisticculture.substack.com

📧 Pitch us your show: info@autisticculturepodcast.com

Thanks for supporting independent, neurodivergent-affirming media. We’re saving you a seat. 💜

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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We’ve grown into a network! 🎙️

Autistic Culture is now the Autistic Culture Podcast Network — five shows live, more on the way — all created by and for neurodivergent people.

We’re also launching Autistic Culture Plus on Supercast, where you can listen ad-free, get early access, binge full series, and unlock our exclusive archive of earlier episodes.

Founding Listener Offer:

• Join now for £0.99/month (80% off) and be listed as an Executive Producer on our site and show credits. You’ll keep that price as long as you stay subscribed!
• On 24 Oct, the price moves to £2.50, and on 31 Oct (Halloween) the standard rate begins: £5/month or £50/year.

Included with Autistic Culture Plus:

• Ad-free listening (sensory-friendly)

• Early access to every episode

• Binge-able themed series

• Exclusive archive of ~100 classic episodes

• Executive Producer credit for founding members

Key Dates:

🗓️ Now — Founding offer live (£0.99)

🗓️ 24 Oct — Trailer drops, price rises to £2.50

🗓️ 31 Oct — Virtual Halloween launch + Late Diagnosis Club premiere

🗓️ Jan 2026 — New Autistic Culture series launches (members binge early!)

Current Shows:

• Autistic Culture (OG)
• Autistic Advocacy (OG Fridays)
• Neurodivergent Narrative
• Autistic Culture 101
• Late Diagnosis Club - Interview show launching Halloween

🎉 Join Autistic Culture Plus: autisticculture.supercast.com

🎃 RSVP to the Halloween party: autisticculture.substack.com

📧 Pitch us your show: info@autisticculturepodcast.com

Thanks for supporting independent, neurodivergent-affirming media. We’re saving you a seat. 💜

🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood.

🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episode originally aired: January 21 2025

With the Netflix documentary Martha creating conversations about Martha Stewart being Autistic online, this episode is more relevant than ever. We're on hiatus, but bringing this powerful conversation back into the feed for anyone who is seeing themselves in Martha.

Matt and Angela welcome special guest Melanie Deziel to explore the legendary Martha Stewart through an autistic cultural lens. From rigid routines to obsessive attention to detail, we examine the traits that set her apart—and the complex conversation around speculating on public figures’ neurodivergence.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Martha Stewart’s autistic-coded traits – Precision, pattern recognition, direct communication, and unwavering standards.
• Media bias & misogyny – How Martha was vilified for traits celebrated in men, and how the media shapes perceptions of powerful autistic-coded women.
• The ethics of public speculation – Why discussing possible autism in public figures can be both culturally important and ethically challenging.
• Passion as power – How Martha’s drive to share knowledge mirrors autistic info-dumping, and how her post-prison transformation revealed a more authentic self.
• Neurodivergence in the spotlight – Parallels between Martha Stewart, Taylor Swift, and other public figures whose traits clash with allistic norms.

Featured Guest: Melanie Deziel

Melanie Deziel is a keynote speaker and award-winning branded content creator who helps individuals, teams, and organizations unlock and organize their creative potential. She is the Co-Founder of The Creator Kitchen mastermind for creatives and the author of The Content Fuel Framework: How to Generate Unlimited Story Ideas and Prove It: Exactly How Modern Marketers Earn Trust.

Resources:

• 📺 Netflix Documentary – Martha Stewart 🔗 Watch here
• Melanie Deziel – Mini Masterclasses | Advocacy Work

Related Episodes:

Trivia is Autistic

Taylor Swift is Autistic

Lessons in Chemistry is Autistic

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episode originally aired: February 14, 2023

With the Netflix hit Wednesday returning for Season 2 and currently #1, this episode is more relevant than ever. We're on hiatus, but bringing this powerful conversation back into the feed for anyone snapping to the beat of Wednesday Addams.

Matt and Angela weigh in on Netflix’s smash hit Wednesday and the heated discussion around whether the titular character is authentically autistic-coded or just another case of “autistic face.” From flat affect and touch aversion to social outsider status, we dig into what’s real, what’s trope, and why representation matters.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Autistic traits in Wednesday Addams – Flat affect, sensory boundaries, focused interests, and rejection of social norms.
• Authenticity vs. performance – Why casting non-autistic actors in autistic-coded roles leads to caricature, and how Wednesday mirrors portrayals like Sheldon Cooper in The Big Bang Theory.
• The “fixing” narrative – How the show frames Wednesday’s arc around becoming more socially acceptable, softening her edges for mass appeal.
• Pretty privilege & palatability – How conventional attractiveness and familiar story arcs make autistic-coded characters more acceptable to allistic audiences.
• Media responsibility – Why we need autistic actors in autistic roles and better representation that isn’t filtered through an allistic lens.

Resources:

HERE WE WOE – “I’m neurodivergent and here’s my issue with Netflix’s Wednesday” 🔗 Read here

15 Ways Wednesday Addams is Cool and Autistic 🔗 Read here

Wednesday’s neurodivergent coding is both good and bad 🔗 Read here

Why neurodivergent characters like Wednesday Addams are so important 🔗 Read here

Related Episodes:

Episode 11: Sherlock is Autistic

Episode 30: Doctor Who is Autistic

Episode 41: Tim Burton is Autistic

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episode originally aired: April 9 2024

With the announcement of TS12, Taylor Swifts new album 'The Life of a Showgirl', this episode is more relevant than ever. We're on hiatus, but bringing this powerful conversation back into the feed for any Autistic Swiftie listeners.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Autistic-coded traits in Taylor Swift – From encyclopaedic cat knowledge to embedding riddles, puzzles, and Easter eggs into her music.
• Outsider perspective in her lyrics – How her songs describe masking, outsider feelings, and belonging in ways deeply resonant with autistic experience.
• Justice sensitivity – Exploring the intersection of fairness, expectation sensitivity, and creative expression.
• Family tree and neurodivergence – Why Swift’s relatives may offer hints of autism’s genetic component.
• The role of privilege – How capitalism, public image, and access shape her career and influence.
• Cultural anthems – Why “Shake It Off” feels like a rallying cry for many autistic individuals.

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episode originally aired: March 11, 2025

With her Netflix hit Too Much currently #1, this episode is more relevant than ever. We're on hiatus, but bringing this powerful conversation back into the feed for anyone diving into Lena Dunham's latest work.

🎧 In this episode:

We explore how Lena Dunham’s chronic illness journey and creative output reflect core themes of autism, burnout, and neurodivergent storytelling.

Topics covered:

• Why Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and POTS frequently co-occur with autism—and how Lena’s experience mirrors autistic burnout.
• How Girls functions as an autistic-coded TV show, created outside neurotypical storytelling structures.
• The autistic traits embedded in Lena’s on-screen character—sensitivity to clothing, social missteps, and rejection-sensitive dysphoria.
• How Not That Kind of Girl was misread by neurotypical audiences, exposing the risks of radical honesty for autistic creators.
• The canonical autism of Shoshanna, and why autistic-coded characters often cluster in ND-created works.
• How Dunham’s traits were pathologized, her career marginalized, and why lack of creative control can trigger health crises in neurodivergent people.
• Jack Antonoff’s ties to autism-coded songwriting (Bleachers, Fun., Taylor Swift) and his relationship with Dunham.

📺 Are you watching Too Much? Share your thoughts in the comments or go to www.autisticculturepodcast.com

🔗 Featured Links & References:

🧠 Autism, Neurodivergence & Mental Health

• Why Taylor Swift Seems to Be Autistic
• Jack Antonoff Discusses OCD Rituals and Loss – People
• Lena Dunham on OCD, Anxiety, and Mental Health – Wikipedia

🩺 Chronic Illness & EDS

• Lena Dunham Reveals Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Diagnosis – CNN

📚 Writing, Creativity & Public Perception

• Lena Dunham’s Passion for Writing in Girls – Project MUSE
• Lena Dunham’s Communication Style & Public Criticism – Medium
• Lena Dunham on Routine, Structure & Creativity – The New Yorker

🎙️ Related Episodes:

• Taylor Swift is Autistic
• Meat Body Maintenance

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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In this episode of Autistic Culture 101, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 10 of Autistic Culture: Passionate Superfanning with producer and fellow podcaster Simon Scott. Whether it’s Doctor Who, My Chemical Romance, Star Trek, or Renaissance fairs—superfanning isn’t a phase. It’s a core cultural trait of autistic identity.

We break down how special interests (SPINs), emotional intensity, and parasocial bonding create a uniquely autistic form of connection with fictional universes and fan communities.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why superfanning is a form of emotional regulation, community-building, and cultural expression in autistic lives
• The role of SPINs in forming deep, long-term relationships with fictional characters and stories
• How fan spaces, cosplay, scripting, and world-building support autistic identity, routine, and joy
• The difference between leaning in to fandom as an autistic form of self-care vs. masking it to appear neurotypical
• How conventions and fandom aesthetics offer accessible social connection where autistic people can thrive

💡 Key Concepts from This Episode

• SPINs are not fleeting hobbies—they’re lifelines.
• Superfanning includes collecting, scripting, deep lore analysis, and wearing fandom as identity.
• Fictional friends offer emotional fluency, comfort, and companionship.
• Autistic fans often mask their enthusiasm due to stigma—this episode invites you to unmask with pride.

🎤 Featured Guest

• Simon Scott – The Neurodivergent Experience Podcast

🎙️ Related Episodes:

• Hans Christian Andersen: Fairy tales as emotional mirrors for autistic readers
• Star Trek: Logic, lore, and moral storytelling for the autistic brain
• My Little Pony: Friendship, emotional growth, and gender exploration
• Doctor Who: Regeneration, scripting, and narrative flexibility
• Christmas: Ritual and sensory joy as autistic cultural tradition
• The Orville: Speculative ethics and social fluency in fandom
• My Chemical Romance: Identity and emotional depth through music
• Cults: When shared purpose turns toxic—superfanning vs. coercion

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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In this episode of Autistic Culture 101, Dr. Angela Kingdon is joined by Clare Kumar, productivity speaker and host of the Happy Space Podcast, to explore Pillar 9: Justice-Seeking in autistic culture.

Clare, a late-diagnosed autistic woman and workplace inclusion advocate, shares how her values-driven mindset and sensitivity to fairness shaped her work, her diagnosis journey, and her unmasking process. If you’ve ever been told you’re "too intense," "too rigid," or "black-and-white," this episode offers a radical reframing of those traits as powerful autistic strengths.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• How moral clarity, justice sensitivity, and literal honesty are central to autistic identity
• Why autistic people often challenge unjust systems, even when it’s uncomfortable or costly
• The role of black-and-white thinking in identifying harm — not as immaturity, but as clarity
• How meltdowns can be valid emotional responses to systemic injustice, not just overstimulation
• Strategies for embracing truth, consistency, and fairness in personal and professional spaces

For so many of us, justice-seeking has been used against us. We were called “too much” or “overreactive.” But in autistic culture, these traits are not flaws — they’re cultural strengths. What happens when we stop apologizing for caring so deeply?

👤 Featured Guest: Clare Kumar

• 🎧 Happy Space Podcast – Episode 45 – Clare shares her late-diagnosis journey and explores justice sensitivity with guest Melanie Deziel
• 👕 InclusiviTees Apparel – Neurodivergent-affirming, ethically made designs that promote conversation and inclusion
• 🌐 ClareKumar.com – Learn more about Clare’s work in productivity, sensory-friendly design, and neuroinclusion
• 🧠 Stanford Neurodiversity Summit – Angela & Clare’s presentation on late-diagnosed autistic women

🎙️ Related Episodes:

Greta Thunberg (Ep 15)

John McEnroe (Ep 42)

Lena Dunham (Ep 113)

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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In this episode of Autistic Culture 101, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 8: Predictably Comforting with special guest Daria Brown, author of We Chose Play: Raising an Autistic Child to Thrive and Feel Understood. Together, they unpack how predictability, routine, and familiarity are not about rigidity—they’re about emotional safety, sensory regulation, and identity coherence.

This conversation is essential for autistic adults, parents, and advocates who want to better understand the soothing power of sameness in autistic lives.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why routine and repetition are cultural strengths in autistic communities
• How sensory regulation and emotional grounding depend on predictability
• The difference between rigidity vs. self-protection
• How repetition (like rewatching shows or eating the same foods) supports well-being
• Cultural icons—from Thomas the Tank Engine to Andy Warhol—who exemplify this trait
• Tools for supporting autistic children and adults through comfort-based design

👤 Featured Guest: Daria Brown

Daria holds a Master’s in Personality and Social Psychology and brings over 30 years of experience in research, education, and neurodiversity advocacy.

• 🌐 Affect Autism Website
• 📖 We Chose Play – Buy the Book
• 🎧 Affect Autism Podcast
• 📺 Affect Autism YouTube Channel
• 📸 Instagram: @affectautism
• 📘 Facebook
• 🐦 Twitter/X: @affectautism

Related Episodes:

Andy Warhol (Ep 33) - Repetition as art, ritual, and grounding

The Law (Ep 115) - Predictability through rules, order, and structure

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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In this episode of Autistic Culture 101, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 7: Boldly Creating with special guest Nina Danon—composer, sound artist, and doctoral researcher whose work focuses on the rich intersections between autism, music, sensory experience, and creativity.

This episode is about making art that’s true, not palatable. It’s for every autistic person who has ever created from a place of emotional intensity, sensory immersion, or special interest—and wondered if it “counts.”

Together, Nina and Angela discuss how stimming, repetition, texture, and rhythm form the basis of autistic artistic practice, and how creative expression becomes a radical act of self-regulation, connection, and authenticity.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why autistic creativity often rejects genre, structure, and perfectionism
• How bottom-up processing fuels invention and form-breaking in autistic art
• How stimming, fandom, and fiber arts like knitting function as bold creative acts
• Nina’s upcoming publication on Musical Neuroqueering and her Stimming Wheel toolkit
• How autistics create to regulate, connect, and process the world through sensory-emotional fusion
• The power of embracing creative process—not just polished outcomes

Featured Guest: Nina Danon

Nina’s work centers autistic creativity as embodied, non-linear, and radically expressive. Her Musical Neuroqueering research will be published in Neuroqueer Theory and Practice (2026, edited by Dr. Nick Walker).

• 📧 Contact Nina: ncdanon@gmail.com
• 🩵 Nina on BlueSky: @ninadanon.bsky.social
• 🎵 “Volcano” – A Neurodivergent Sonic Experience (with Francesco Cassino)
• 🎤 “Composing Neurodivergence” – King’s College Talk (Feb 2025)

Further Reading Recommendations from Nina:

📘 Designing an Autistic Space for Research – Bertilsdotter Rosqvist et al., Neurodiversity Studies (Routledge, 2020)

🎭 Look, I Made a Hat – Stephen Sondheim (Knopf, 2011)

Related Episodes:

Eminem (Ep19) - Bold lyrical precision & emotional vulnerability

Questlove (Ep29) - Rhythmic innovation through sensory hyperfocus

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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In this episode of Autistic Culture 101, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 6: Game-Changing Innovation—the autistic drive to question assumptions, reimagine systems, and create from sensory truth and moral clarity.

Autistic innovation isn’t about chasing trends or applause. It’s about paradigm shifts. From Isaac Newton’s invention of calculus to Richard Branson’s rebellious business model to Angela’s father building his own Hot Rod kit cars—this episode shows how autistic game changers build entirely new systems when old ones fail.

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why autistic thinkers often notice problems no one else sees
• How emotional intensity, deep focus, and sensory perception drive innovation
• The difference between trend-following disruption and authentic paradigm-building
• How masking stifles game-changing potential—and how to lean into your vision
• Stories of iconic game changers like Isaac Newton, Steve Jobs, Hannah Gadsby, and Martha Stewart

📚 Resources Mentioned

• 🎤 Angela’s TEDx Talk at TEDx Tamworth — on Newton as an autistic game changer
• 📘 Make ‘Em Beg to Work for You – Angela’s Hiring Book
• 📖 Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
• 📺 Lessons in Chemistry (TV series featuring autistic-coded innovation)

Related Episodes:

Industrial Light & Magic

Lessons in Chemistry is Autistic

Freddie Mercury

🌟 Connect With Us

📱 Follow us on Instagram

🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop

🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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An episode that mastered the art of unmasking on the page!

In Episode 142 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon discusses the art of unmasking and how writing can help process late-diagnosis identity shock. Plus, she reveals this week’s creative prompt themed around the oral tradition of writing and sharing Fables! What lessons, values, or morals would you pass down as an Autistic person?

All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our sixth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNER 🥇Lindsee Garlock-Thornton:

-Sparkly Brain-

The greatest treasureGolden playground of the mindNo bland thoughts in here

-Knowledge Thirst Trap-

I learn something newPupils dilate, purview swellsLet’s do that again!

-Sensational Senses-

I must touch the thingSmooth, fluffy, bumpy, or slickHungry fingertips

-Visual Disturbance Rumination-

The anomalyHighly visible to meRinse and repeat and repeat

-Call Me Sal- (Sally, witch, Practical Magic)

Pattern recognizedWe can see around cornersMagic to your eyes

-Welp, Found My People-

Autistic cultureTalking it out fills me upEverything makes sense!

THE RUNNER UP 🥈Allyson Hogan:

Comfort episodeWatch ‘til you know it by heartRecite every word

Spin reemergingHello again, my old friendI sink into you

Play the song againMedicine to scratch awayThe itch in my brainCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• An update on what to expect from the Autistic Culture podcast over the summer hiatus and what to look forward to in Season 4.

• Dr Angela provides an update on her upcoming book ‘Am I Actually Autistic?: Dr. Angela Kingdon's Memoir and Self-Identification Guide to Processing the Identity Shock of a Late Autism Discovery & Living Unmasked’.

• Discover the mission behind the Autistic Culture Institute and get early details on Neurodivergent Voices Live, a UK-based celebration of autistic authors, artists, podcasters, and performers coming in June 2026.

• Explore how writing can help process late-diagnosis identity shock and unmasking in a world that wasn’t built for neurodivergent minds.

• Masking refers to the conscious or unconscious suppression of natural autistic traits to conform to neurotypical expectations. While masking can aid short-term social acceptance, long-term masking may lead to exhaustion, anxiety, identity confusion, and burnout.

• Unmasking allows space for joy: in sensory play, deep interests, honest expression, and bodily autonomy. It invites curiosity, creativity, and playfulness, not just survival.

• Fables belong essentially to the oral tradition; they survive by being remembered and then retold in one's own words. When they are written down, particularly in the dominant language of instruction, they lose something of their essence. A strategy for reclaiming them is therefore to exploit the gap between the written and the spoken language.

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Moral of the Story’ Contest

What’s the moral you want to pass on to our younger neurokin? Start there!

PROMPT: If you were to write a fable in the style of Aesop’s fables about friendship, what would the moral be?

⚠️Your fable may not be any longer than 500 words.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, June 25th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.

Use the hashtag #moralofthestory on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSes-dR34WBtfe7VYGx7wZRvqNhV8ykEGr4L9CHzNSjN5HVfFQ/viewform

Resources:

Matt telling the Wind and the Sun parable is at 10:43 on the Neurodiversity Podcast

BBC article on Aesop’s fables: https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/school-radio/articles/z73s6v4

Aesops fables: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aesop%27s_Fables

The Miller, his Son, and their Donkey: https://www.shortkidstories.com/story/miller-son-donkey/

Detailed list of morals: https://www.litscape.com/indexes/Aesop/Morals.html#google_vignetteLindsee Garlock-Thornton Haiuk Instagram: haikuwouldntyou

Substack link to ‘Am I Actually Autistic?: Dr. Angela Kingdon's Memoir and Self-Identification Guide to Processing the Identity Shock of a Late Autism Discovery & Living Unmasked’ - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/t/bookBuy a physical copy of the book here: https://books.by/autisticculture

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27

Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28

Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29

Writing Memoir with Alethea Shapiro (Episode 138) - Writing Prompt #30

Neurodivergent Creative Cycles with Sol Smith (Episode 140) - Writing Prompt #31

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

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An episode where our detail-oriented, data-loving, information-hungry selves come to life!

In Episode 141 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture with Jodi Britcha-Coyne, as we move onto Pillar 5 — Pattern Matching.

Jodi Brichta-Coyne is a Certified Life Coach, Author, Strategic Interventionist, Certified Relationship Coach, and an NLP (neurolinguistic programmer) for working moms and women with small businesses. As a mother of 2, Jodi started coaching to help other women deal with the stress and sometimes overwhelming combination of balancing a business life while maintaining a household. Before and while raising her family, Jodi has spent over 15 years as a corporate executive and small business owner.

Pattern Matching is the cultural heart of autistic analysis, organization, and perception. While neurotypical culture often values quick generalizations and intuitive leaps, autistic minds notice what’s actually there. We observe first. We track anomalies. And we build understanding by recognizing patterns, not assumptions.

Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:

• 🔁Pattern Matching: Recognizing recurring structures in data, behavior, language, or systems—and using them to predict, analyze, or innovate.

• 🧠Monotropic Information Processing: Our brains tend to focus deeply on one thread at a time, often developing complex internal frameworks that connect disparate ideas.

• 📚Data Hunger: A term coined within neurodivergent communities to describe the innate drive to seek information, accumulate facts, and understand systems at depth.

Key Concepts:

• Autistic pattern recognition is not cold or robotic—it’s emotionally charged, deeply human, and often creative.

• It’s how we make sense of chaos, find comfort in repetition, and experience joy through discovery.

• Our ability to match patterns spans micro and macro levels—from noticing a tiny shift in tone during a conversation to identifying social or ecological trends across decades.

• It can be as playful as memorizing Pokémon stats or as groundbreaking as transforming human sexuality research like Kinsey did.

Alfred Kinsey's most famous quote, and one that sums up his approach to sex research, is: "We are the recorders and reporters of facts, not the judges of the behaviors we describe."

• Pattern matching often begins in childhood—lining up toys, collecting rocks, memorizing subway systems—and matures into adult forms like categorizing fan wikis, correcting Wikipedia, writing diagnostic criteria, or developing complex board game strategies.

💭 Here’s what to listen for through the lens of Pattern Matching:

Let’s look at 10 real-world examples of how pattern matching shows up—and how you can lean into it as an autistic cultural strength!

Here are some examples:

• Follow the data trails.

✅ Lean in: You notice a glitch in a spreadsheet or inconsistency in a story, so you trace it back to the source—even if it takes a while.

🎭 Mask: You brush it off because no one else seems concerned, but it gnaws at you all day.

• Organize information in your own way.

✅ Lean in: You color-code, cross-reference, or categorize your notes based on what helps you find meaning.🎭 Mask: You use a planner or note system that’s “normal” but totally unusable to your brain.

• Let repetition be grounding, not “weird.”

✅ Lean in: You listen to the same song or rewatch the same show to find patterns you missed the first time.🎭 Mask: You force yourself to rotate through new content to avoid being seen as obsessive, even though it’s less satisfying.

• Let pattern logic guide social insight.

✅ Lean in: You analyze someone’s tone, timing, and phrasing to understand their emotional pattern—even if it’s nonverbal.🎭 Mask: You pretend to read social vibes intuitively, even when it doesn’t actually make sense.

Patterns are magical enough. The woo isn’t that woo-y

• Build knowledge maps.

✅ Lean in: You sketch diagrams, flowcharts, or database trees that connect ideas across time and topic.🎭 Mask: You try to follow neurotypical linear thinking styles and get overwhelmed or lost.

• Say it when you see it.

✅ Lean in: You point out connections between topics that others haven’t noticed—because that’s your brain’s gift.🎭 Mask: You keep quiet to avoid being labeled “off-topic,” “intense,” or “too analytical.”

• Treat systems like puzzles.

✅ Lean in: You fix processes at work or home by finding the bottlenecks others miss and proposing better sequences.🎭 Mask: You let inefficient systems persist because offering a solution would “make waves.”

• Let trivia be your joy.

✅ Lean in: You bring obscure but delightful facts into conversation, because joy in knowledge is culture.🎭 Mask: You hide your knowledge to avoid being called “a know-it-all.”

• Create order from chaos.

✅ Lean in: You clean, archive, or label in ways that make your environment work for you.🎭 Mask: You leave your space chaotic or default to others’ systems, even when they make your brain scream.

• Own your pattern mind.

✅ Lean in: You proudly say, “I notice things other people don’t.”🎭 Mask: You apologize for “overthinking” or “fixating” instead of naming it as insight.

If you’ve ever been told you’re “too much” because you notice what others don’t—this is your moment. You’re not too much. You’re too perceptive. Notice what you notice. It’s your cultural superpower.

So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.

We’re saving you a seat!

This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!

Jodi’s Book – "Are You Still There God? It’s Me, Jodi." – A humorous and honest memoir about midlife and perimenopause from a mom’s perspectivehttps://a.co/d/5cJ6cGy

Frontiers in Psychiatry Article – "The Predictive Coding Account of Psychosis and Autism" – A scientific paper exploring overlapping cognitive mechanisms in autism and psychosishttps://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2021.621659/full

Rounded Globe – "The Prehistory of Autism" – A historical exploration of autism-like traits before the modern diagnosishttps://roundedglobe.com/html/391da86c-665f-49be-bfa0-9942b52ebc08/en/The%20Prehistory%20of%20Autism/

IntechOpen Chapter – "Understanding Autism: From Basic Neuroscience to Treatment" – An academic chapter providing a broad overview of autism research and interventionshttps://www.intechopen.com/chapters/43239

Monotropism Slides (Woods) – "An Updated Interest Model of Autism" – Presentation slides outlining a monotropism-based framework for understanding autistic cognitionhttps://shura.shu.ac.uk/24526/1/Woods_an_updated_interest%28Slides%29.pdf

Monotropism.org – Wellbeing Page – "Monotropism and Wellbeing" – Practical insights on supporting mental health through the lens of autistic attention and focushttps://monotropism.org/wellbeing/

Related Episodes:

Sex/Alfred Kinsey - Kinsey’s meticulous classification of human sexual behavior displays pattern matching through its drive to catalog and understand human variation systematically (Ep 35).

Magic The Gathering - The complex, rule-based systems and strategic deck-building in Magic appeal to pattern-seeking minds that thrive on structure and interrelated mechanics (Bonus Ep).Wikipedia - Wikipedia's hyperlink structure and vast, categorized information network reflect the Autistic tendency to follow patterns across domains and connect niche knowledge areas (Ep 61).

DC / Benjamin Banneker - Banneker’s use of mathematical and astronomical patterns to predict eclipses resonates with the autistic capacity to identify and apply abstract systems in the real world (Ep 5).

Ghostbusters - The film’s blend of paranormal science and gadgetry offers a pattern-based logic to the supernatural (Ep 2). Only Murders - The mystery genre hinges on uncovering hidden connections and subtle clues, engaging the autistic talent for tracking patterns others might miss (Ep 43).Board Games - Many board games reward players for recognizing strategic patterns, rulesets, and probabilities—skills where autistic thinkers often excel (Ep 95)

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn 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

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An episode that busts the myth of 'perfect' creative processes!

In Episode 140 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon speaks with Sol Smith, author of The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery. If you’ve spent time on TikTok, YouTube, or inside the NeuroSpicy community, you’ve probably felt the impact of Sol’s voice—direct, affirming, and deeply validating. He joins the show to help us rethink our relationship with writing routines, explore the realities of autistic creative rhythms, and bust the myth of 'perfect' creative processes.

Plus, we announce our amazing winners from our fifth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNER 🥇'Kidnapped’ - Based on a true storyBy Laura Pearson

THE RUNNER UP 🥈'And Then I Realized…’By Genya VasilovCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We read our winners from the fifth writing prompt for Neurodivergent Narratives and announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners.

• Sol shares his path to writing The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery, andoffers his insight on the challenges of the publishing process, and the role of writing in processing his lived experience.

• How does Sol overcome those moments when writing doesn’t come easily, you're in a rut, or stuck in autistic inertia?

• Why connecting creative cycles with SPINs and internal logic can help build up creative drive for writers.

• vSol shares his advice for neurodivergent writers who feel like they’re constantly behind or not doing it 'right'.

• Sol and Angela discuss the battle for perfectionism, self-acceptance, the therapeutic nature of creative expression as neurodivergent individuals, and how haiku can express profound emotion in just a few words.

Sol Smith is the author of The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery and the manager of the Neurospicy Community, which is the largest support network for autistics and ADHDers in the world. A certified autism specialist who is autistic, dyslexic, and living with ADHD. He 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. He lives in Southern California with his wife and four children, and you can find him online at www.ProfessorSol.com

Here are his social media links:

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@bettersol

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprofessorsol

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solsmith

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@professor_sol

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sol-smith-mfa-eds-ms-cas-7955364

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Your Autistic Birthright’ Contest

I’d write an intro,but counting syllables isharder than it looks.

PROMPT: Write a haiku inspired by your Autistic Birthright. Interpret the theme in any way that resonates with you—literally or metaphorically!

⚠️Your poetry may not be any longer than 500 words.

A haiku is a traditional Japanese poetic form made up of three lines with a specific syllable pattern:

• Line 1: 5 syllables

• Line 2: 7 syllables

• Line 3: 5 syllables

Haiku Basics:

• Total of 17 syllables

• Traditionally inspired by nature or personal insight

• Often includes a seasonal reference or a moment of emotional clarity

• In modern usage, especially in neurodivergent communities, haiku can explore identity, sensory experience, stimming, or personal truth, freeing the form from rigid tradition.

How to Write One:

• Choose a theme or moment — something that feels honest or vivid.

• Write what you notice or feel — don’t worry about rules at first.

• Count syllables for each line: 5, 7, 5.

• Trim or reshape the lines until they fit the form.

Here’s an example process:

Theme: Nail biting as a form of self-regulation and sensory input that isn’t a choice, even when painful or judged.Initial idea: I bite my nails. It hurts, I hate it—but fifty years of shame didn’t fix me. This is what regulation looks like.Angela’s haiku:

I still bite my nails.

My body calls, I answer.

Shame won’t heal this skin.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, June 18th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.

Use the hashtag #haikuyou on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeYIwK-nQLv1cUvPbZgylH6G3X83Z11Vb5ZFL1_B06k-Fzzgg/viewform

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27

Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28

Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29

Writing Memoir with Alethea Shapiro (Episode 138) - Writing Prompt #30

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn 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

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An episode that took a fantasy and made it reality.

In Episode 139 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture with Dr. Scott Frasard, as we move onto Pillar 4 — World building.

Dr. Scott Frasard is an autistic autism advocate who is a published author and an outspoken critic of operant conditioning approaches to change natural autistic behaviors to meet neuro-normative social expectations.

Dr Scott Frasard decided he wasn’t going to critique the status quo, he was going to build something new.

His essay, ‘The World We Built: A Future Where Autistic People Are Respected, Not Repaired,’ set in 2075, imagines a world where autism is no longer pathologized. Where the DSM is behind museum glass, and identity is co-created, not diagnosed.

You can read it in full here.

Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:

• 🧠Mental Mapping: Autistic brains naturally organize information in systems — we often build entire models inside our minds to understand or improve what’s around us. Creating a coherent internal or external system — could be fictional, functional, emotional, social, or sensory.

• 💡Systems thinking: Using logic, narrative, and design to rethink how things could work.

Key Concepts:

• Autistic world-building is immersive, structured, and strategic.

• It often starts in childhood: building imaginary cities, organizing toys into categories, designing languages, or character arcs.

• It evolves in adulthood: spreadsheets, RPGs, sensory hacks, alt-education models, and organizing social movements.

• World building is a coping mechanism and a creative force — it helps us understand systems and reimagine them.

• It is not limited to fiction, but that’s how we know it best or can spot it fastest. Some examples are Star Wars, Pokémon, Taylor Swift’s Eras, Dungeons & Dragons, My Chemical Romance, Ren Faires, LARP, fan wikis, and cosplay universes.

💭 Here’s what to listen for through the lens of world-building:

What does it look like to lean into world-building as an autistic cultural strength? And what does it look like when that gets punished or pathologized?

Here are some examples:

• Build your systems:Pathologized: They call you inflexible. You’re told to be more spontaneous. You mask your systems, and your stability crumbles.Lean in: You have rituals, frameworks, time-blocking, color-coding, filters, and scripts. You run your day like a game level.

• Build a universe around your SPIN:Pathologized: It’s called obsessive. You’re told it’s “just a phase.” You try to hide your joy.Lean in: You go deep. You make maps, charts, and timelines. You know what your characters eat for breakfast.

• Use world-building to solve problems:Pathologized: You’re told your ideas are too complex, too idealistic, too much.Lean in: You imagine better service models, ethical policy shifts, and future educational frameworks.

• Build tools for neurodivergent life:Pathologized: You’re seen as needy or over-prepared instead of brilliant.Lean in: You design visual supports, flowcharts, decision trees, or sensory kits.

• Co-create with others:Pathologized: Your leadership gets ignored. Your vision gets sidelined. You get told to “just follow the plan.”Lean in: You bring friends into the world you’re building. You make collaborative campaigns, zines, and alt-syllabi.

Autistic world-building is not a bonus feature. It’s the core engine of our culture. The world we want doesn’t just appear. We build it. And we’ve already started.

So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.

We’re saving you a seat!

This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!

Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottfrasard/Scott’s book: https://amzn.eu/d/1OmioMc

Related Episodes:

• George Lucas - The creation of Star Wars was a masterclass in galactic-scale myth-making. (Ep 56)

• Pokémon - Offers an intricate, collectible universe built on categorization, pattern recognition, and the joy of completion. (Ep 16)

• Dungeons & Dragons - Let’s players collaboratively build worlds with clear rules and infinite flexibility. (Ep 39)

• Taylor Swift - She constructs interconnected emotional worlds through albums, Easter eggs, and lyrical references. (Ep 64)

• My Chemical Romance - MCR’s concept albums (The Black Parade, Danger Days) build rich dystopian worlds, where emotional extremes are mapped onto visual and sonic design. (Ep 121)

• Lemony Snicket - The Snicketverse builds a deeply ordered but unjust world, where rules are arbitrary yet must be followed. (Ep 6)

• Tim Burton - His gothic and surreal aesthetics construct spaces for misfits and loners, drawing from archetypes and childlike wonder. (Ep 41)

• Ren Fests - Immersive environments that allow for costumed identity, ritualized interaction, and communal storytelling. (Ep 77)

• Mythic Quest - The show reveals how structured thinking and obsessive creativity shape virtual and emotional landscapes. (Ep 60)

• Disney - Disney’s vast narrative empire constructs consistent, idealized worlds that merge spectacle with moral simplicity. (Ep 26)

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

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An episode that shared its story with the world!

In Episode 138 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon sits down with Alethea Shapiro, who is currently in England as she writes her memoir, to discuss why memoir is probably the hardest or most demanding genre to break into in terms of how good and polished your writing skills need to be.

Plus, we announce our amazing winners from our fourth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNER 🥇"She Wants Her Floodplains Back" by Hedda Asklund

THE RUNNER UP 🥈Home Is Where The Heart Is’ by Ryan Gillis

Congrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We read our winners from the fourth writing prompt for Neurodivergent Narratives and announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners.

Why Memoir Is So Demanding (If You’re Not Famous)

• Memoir requires introspection, structure, and emotional honesty, all at once.

• You must shape real life into a coherent story with meaning, not just a series of events.

• Readers expect literary quality, emotional depth, and strong narrative arcs.

• Without a public platform, your writing must carry the entire weight of the book—there’s no “celebrity curiosity” to fill in the gaps.

Why Genre Fiction Can Be Easier to Break Into.

• Genres like romance and mystery are built around well-known formulas and reader expectations:

• Romance: meet-cute → tension → conflict → resolution → happily ever after.

• Mystery: crime → investigation → twists → reveal.

• These genres provide a roadmap, which helps writers focus on execution rather than invention.

• Readers of these genres often seek familiarity and satisfaction, not literary innovation.

• Because the structure is shared, you can get better by copying, testing, and iterating, and there’s a massive market to enter.

Make a Choice: What Kind of Writer Are You Right Now?

Option 1: Write for Fun + Self-Publish

• You're writing because it feels good and you have something to say.

• You’re open to experimenting, learning by doing, and sharing your voice without pressure.

• You may self-publish or blog your work.

• Key insight: The more you write, the better you get—and that’s enough.

Option 2: Commit to a Literary Career

• You treat writing as a serious craft—memoir is your art form.

• You find joy and pleasure in studying structure, style, and voice.

• You seek out editing, workshops, critique, and growth over time.

• You may aim for traditional publication or hybrid publishing with literary integrity as your guide.

Neither Is "Better"—But They Are Different Paths

• Confusion happens when you expect literary outcomes from casual effort, writing casually but feel guilty for not being “serious.”

• Be honest about your goals and capacity, especially if you're neurodivergent and balancing energy differently.

• Decide what success looks like for you, not for a hypothetical industry gatekeeper.

Your story matters. Your voice matters. But clarity is kindness to yourself and your reader.

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The “Family Secret” Contest

Write where you are. No, literally.

PROMPT: Write about a secret—real or imagined—that upends a family.

⚠️Your micro-drama may not be any longer than 500 words.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, June 11th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.

Use the hashtag #familysecret on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://forms.gle/FMWs6j77BfgE7bf59

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27

Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28

Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

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An episode that explores the heart of autistic insight, authenticity, and truth-telling.

In Episode 137 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture as we move onto Pillar 3— Norm Challenging. Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:

• ❓Autistic culture doesn't just question norms — it reimagines them. Being misunderstood is often a sign of being ahead of our time, not behind. Our literal minds challenge euphemism, dishonesty, and performative niceness. We ask “why” not to be difficult, but because truth matters.

• 🔥Emotional intensity fuels a drive toward justice, not just personal catharsis.

• 🌐Sensory and interoceptive differences create embodied experiences that challenge cultural assumptions (about politeness, gender, social scripts).

• 🌊Depth over surface: We don’t do small talk — we go deep, fast.

• 🎭Insight over appearance: We value meaning, not pretense.

• 🗣️Truth-telling: Even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.

• 💥Emotional honesty: Our intensity can be confronting — and transformative.

• 👮Questioning authority: We challenge rules that don’t make sense.

• 🌈Gender and identity fluidity: Many autistics naturally diverge from binary roles.

• ❌Rejection of social performance: If it’s fake, we’re out.

• 🤝Anti-hierarchy: We build relationships around shared interest, not status.

• 📊Pattern-driven rebellion: We don’t just push back — we see what’s broken.

• ⚖️Moral clarity: Our black-and-white thinking often reflects a clear sense of justice, not rigidity.

🎙️ What you’re about to hear is a special remastered episode from our archives — perfect for Pillar 3: Norm Challenging. This episode doesn’t just talk about language — it lives inside it.

💭 As you listen, ask yourself:

• Literal honesty over social performance – Emily refused to “visit” socially, a major chore in her time. She didn’t pretend to enjoy small talk or conform to polite society. She opted out, poetically, and repeatedly.

• Persistent demand for autonomy – What gets labeled PDA today was how Emily lived: resisting unjust expectations, from marriage to fashion to church membership.

• Religious resistance and personal meaning-making – In a deeply Calvinist world, Emily publicly identified as “without hope” (refusing conversion) and privately worshipped the Word itself — finding spiritual truth in poetry, not doctrine.

• Gender fluidity and self-redefinition – She referred to herself in letters as “Brother Emily,” imagined herself as a prince, earl, or duke, and expressed longing to be “bearded like a man.” Her queerness wasn’t a phase — it was part of her poetic self-construction.

• Masking for survival, not acceptance – Emily dressed all in white, framed her writing as religious, and stayed under her father’s roof by appearing pious, not because she agreed with social norms, but to create safety and space for her real work.

• Social rejection and CPTSD – Her refusal to conform was punished. Her poetry was ignored. She was called strange, sickly, and reclusive. This episode explores how rejection sensitivity and chronic invalidation shaped her creative and emotional world.

• Sensory seeking and autistic fashion – Emily made her own clothes for comfort, refused corsets, and wore the same soft cotton wrapper daily. Not just defiance — it was regulation and sensory joy.

• Rewriting the world through poetry – Her work challenges poetic form, grammar, rhythm, and even the rules of punctuation. She wasn’t bad at writing — she rewrote what writing could be.

• Choosing truth over approval – Whether in letters, verse, or social choices, Emily never picked the easy path. She chose what was honest. Even when it meant social exile.

• Legacy of liberation – By breaking norms in her time, she opened doors for queer, autistic, gender-nonconforming, and outsider voices. Her work didn’t just survive — it changed literature forever.

So as you listen to this episode, ask yourself: What norms have you challenged — even quietly? What parts of you have been pathologized that might be your power?

Let Emily Dickinson remind you: telling the truth, even slantwise, is still truth. And that, in itself, is revolutionary.So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.

We’re saving you a seat!

This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!

Related Episodes:

• Emily Dickinson – Her reclusive lifestyle, gender ambiguity, and radically inventive poetry defied 19th-century norms. (Ep 3)

• Charles Schulz - He used Peanuts to critique social conformity, anxiety, and unspoken rules subtly. (Ep 8)

• Courtney Love – Loud, unapologetic, emotionally intense; challenged gender norms and music industry double standards. (Referenced, Ep 89)

• Vampires – Symbolic outsiders who often represent neuroqueer themes of identity, consent, and bodily autonomy. (Ep 75)

• X-Men – Mutants as a metaphor for neurodivergence, queerness, and civil rights struggles. (Ep 67)

• Being an Expat – Living outside your culture makes norms visible; this episode explores outsider identity. (Ep 105)

• Wednesday Addams – Dry, literal, emotionally intense — a pop culture icon of norm defiance. (Ep 17)

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

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An episode that doesn’t have to travel far to tell a story worth sharing!

In Episode 136 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon sits down with fellow author, poet, and performer Tim Claire, to dive into something every Autistic writer calls to: finding your creative calling.

Plus, we announce our amazing winners from our third writing contest. You showed us the joy, the obsession, the comfort, the heartbreak, and the magic of falling in love with the thing that makes life worth living!Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNER 🥇"To my dearest, softest, pastel sage finger weight yarn…”by Kaleigh E

THE RUNNER UP 🥈

“The Written Word”by Katie Robin.

Congrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We read our winners from the third writing prompt for Neurodivergent Narratives and announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners. We received dozens of Epistolaries, which showed us the joy, obsession, comfort, heartbreak, and the magic of your special interests.

• Dr Angela and Tim discuss Tim’s career as a writer, his advice on working through writer’s block, his methods for creative writing, and why games have inspired his creative writing style.

• Tim shares his love for board games. He discusses his new book about why the history of board games is really the history of human civilisation, and reveals how writing it resulted in his Autism diagnosis.

• They discuss when he first recognized writing as his creative calling and what advice Tim would give someone unsure about following their own.

• Tim performs his poem ‘In Portishead’ to inspire our writers for the next contest.

Tim Claire is the author of The Game Changers: How Playing Games Changed the World and Can Change You Too, The Honours, The Ice House, and We can’t all be Astronauts (winner Best Biography/Memoir – 2009 East Anglian Book Awards).

He presents the creative writing podcast DEATH OF 1000 CUTS for anyone who wants to know how to write a novel, write great fiction, and get published.

He is a stand-up poet with several award-winning 5-star shows under his belt. He has performed his work on BBC 1, 2, Radio 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6, and has written for The Guardian, The Times, The Independent, The Big Issue and Writing magazine, amongst others.

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The “Local Color (Colour!)” Contest

Write where you are. No, literally.

Inspired by a creative technique known as local color (and by the wise writing of Tim Clare), this week’s prompt brings us back to the ground, literally. You don’t have to travel far to tell a story worth sharing. The details you notice are worth writing about. The way you see the world is worth capturing. So lace up your shoes—or open your window—and take a closer look!

PROMPT: Take a walk within just a few hundred meters of your home. Write about what you observe.

⚠️Your travel writing may not be any longer than 500 words.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, June 4th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.

Use the hashtag #localcolor on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://forms.gle/FVK4p11Kmip6T7G2AResources:

Tim Claires website

Tim’s podcast - Death of 1000 cuts (for anyone who wants to know how to write a novel, write great fiction, and get published)Tim’s writing in the Guardian on his latest book and his love for Board games

Amazon link to Tim’s book: The Game Changers: How Playing Games Changed the World and Can Change You Too

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27

Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn 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

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An episode that explores a core expression of how autistic people interact with the world and one another.

In Episode 135 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture as we move onto Pillar 2— Rhythmic Communicating. Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:

• 🗣️ Echolalia: Repeating things you’ve heard — could be from a show, another person, or even yourself. It can happen right away or much later.

• 🔄 Palilalia: Repeating your own words or phrases, often without meaning to. Sometimes it speeds up or gets softer as you go.

• 🎭 Scripting: Using lines from movies, shows, or past conversations to communicate or handle social stuff. It’s like having go-to phrases ready.

• 🤓 Infodumping: Talking a lot (and in detail) about something you're super into. It might be a one-way info blast, but it’s done with passion.

• 🪞 Echopraxia: Copying other people’s movements or gestures, sometimes without realizing it. Like mirroring someone’s body language.

• 🌀 Mazing: Telling stories or explaining things in a roundabout way — lots of tangents, loops, or detours before getting to the point (if ever). Autistic communication

It’s often musical, patterned, and poetic, following its rhythm and flow. This style isn’t “off”; it’s layered, intentional, and deeply expressive. The so-called “autistic accent” — our pacing, tone, gestures, eye contact, and speech patterns — isn’t a social flaw, it’s a cultural vibe. What sounds “weird” to others is often rooted in sensory joy, linguistic precision, or scripted comfort.

🎙️ What you’re about to hear is a special remastered episode from our archives — perfect for Pillar 2: Rhythmic Communicating. This episode doesn’t just talk about language — it lives inside it.

💭 As you listen, ask yourself:What if this is what beautiful communication sounds like?What if rhythm, repetition, and emotional precision are not quirks to fix, but forms to celebrate?

What to listen for through the lens of rhythmic communication:

🎤 Lyrical scripting – Taylor Swift uses structured lyrics, poetic motifs, and callbacks to express emotion. Repetition and metaphor = cultural fluency, not just style.

📚 Hyperlexia meets infodumping – From childhood writing to Easter eggs and liner notes, Taylor info-shares with love and detail — autistic intimacy in action.

🌀 Mazing and tangents – Her storytelling spirals, loops, and circles back. Think folklore and evermore — this is an autistic narrative style at its finest.

🗣️ Voice as rhythm – Songs like “Shake It Off” use rhythm to ground and energize. It’s more than catchy — it’s a stim anthem.

🕺 Stimming and vocal play – In interviews and docs (like Miss Americana), Taylor bounces, scripts, giggles, and flaps — classic joyful stimming.

🪞 Emotional echolalia – Recurring lyrics like “I can change everything about me to fit in” echo across albums. This mirrors how autistic folks process emotion through repetition.

🖼️ Visual scripting in media – Her aesthetic choices follow structured patterns. Just like scripting conversation, but in color, costume, and camera work.

🎤 Autistic accent through performance – Her tone, pacing, and stylized speech aren’t awkward — they’re rhythmic, deliberate, and expressive.

🫶 Patterned speech as relationship – Fans speak in Taylor-coded language (e.g., Easter eggs, quotes). It’s the same way many autistics build connections.

🎼 Genre as grammar – Taylor uses each musical genre as a unique emotional language. Every album is like its own communication style.

As you listen and pay attention to the rhythmic communication pillar with deeper context, I want you to ask yourself: What if this is what beautiful communication sounds like? What if rhythm, repetition, and emotional precision are not quirks to fix, but forms to celebrate?

You don’t have to be a Swifty to see it. But you do have to listen for the rhythm. And once you do, you might never hear her the same way again.

So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.

We’re saving you a seat!

This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!

Resources:

Deaf President Now documentary: The story of the great civil rights movement most people have never heard about. During eight tumultuous days in 1988 at the world's only Deaf university, four students must find a way to lead a revolution and change the course of history.

Related Episodes:

Eminem – Lyricism, speed, repetition, verbal rhythm that mirrors echolalia and hyperverbal stimming. (Ep 19)

Shakespeare – Structured verse, iambic pentameter, and dramatic scripting that resonates with autistic communication styles. (Ep 109)

They Might Be Giants – Lyrical loops, wordplay, and repetition. (Ep 119)

Fern Brady – Autistic stand-up comic with direct delivery and layered scripting. (Ep 54)

Sonic the Hedgehog – Rapid, rhythmic speech and high sensory pacing. (Ep 111)

Monster High – Scripted interactions and exaggerated vocal styles reflect patterned social cues. (Ep 117)

MST3K – Running commentary, media scripting, and looping voice humor. (Ep 83)

Rick and Morty – Stammering, scripting, repetition, and tangents are central to character design. (Ep 70)

Animation & Voice Acting – Characters who rely on distinctive scripted voices and expressive pacing. (Ep 32)

Follow us on Instagram.

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

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An episode that fans the flames of burnout through writing!

In Episode 134 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon dives into something every Autistic writer confronts: burnout recovery! Writing can serve as a powerful tool to help reconnect with your sense of self, process overwhelm, and gently rebuild energy. Plus, we announce our amazing winners from our second writing contest—over 50 neurodivergent writers entered!!

Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNER 🥇Reflections of the Past – A statement shared by the Friendship One United Earth Space Probe Cooperative on the day of the launch.By Daron Williams

THE RUNNER UP 🥈The Clockmaker’s DaughterBy Libby Banks

Congrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We read our winners from the second writing prompt for Neurodivergent Narratives and announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners. We received dozens of microfiction stories that explored disorientation, time loops, shifting realities, and social misfires—all through the beautiful, kaleidoscopic lens of neurodivergent minds.

How Burnout can make it hard to write:

• Autistic Burnout is a natural result of prolonged masking, sensory overload, and social misattunement. It's not laziness. It’s not depression. It’s exhaustion from constantly navigating a world not built for us.

• Writing doesn’t fix burnout, but can help us listen to ourselves again.

• Journaling is stimming with words. It’s a ritual. A gentle return.

How to Write When You Can’t Write:

• Describe something sensory: a sunrise, a sound, the texture of a favorite object.

• Invent a character who feels how you feel. Let them move instead of you.

• Use AI (like me!) to help you start a sentence. Or finish one. Or brainstorm a metaphor.

• Use voice. Dictate instead of typing.

• Try morning pages: 3 pages of whatever comes out—no editing, no judgment.

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The “Recovering From Burnout” Contest

A letter of love to your SPINS

How would you profess your love for your special interest in just 500 words? This one’s going to spark joy. But it’s also going to uncover a deep truth at the heart of autistic culture: the powerful, unwavering, life-saving bond between us and our SPINs.

PROMPT: Write a love letter to your special interest as if your special interest were a person.

⚠️Your story must be a love letter to your special interest, and your letter may not be any longer than 500 words.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, May 28 at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.

Use the hashtag #burnout on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://forms.gle/FVK4p11Kmip6T7G2AResources:Are We entering End Times Fascism with Naomi Klein & Astra Taylor:

Friends family t-shirt link - https://www.teepublic.com/t-shirt/53761260-friends-family-fictional-characters?store_id=2962926

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn 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

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An episode that doesn’t assume the “big picture” first!

In Episode 133 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we begin from the ground up on our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture as we start with Pillar 1— Bottom-Up Processing. Here’s what defines this cultural trait:

• Detail-first thinking: Autistic minds gather information from the ground up, building meaning through sensory input, observed patterns, and logical systems.

• Monotropism: We deep-dive into specific interests and tasks, driven by focused curiosity rather than generalized frameworks.

• Hyperfocus and complex analysis: These traits allow for immersive attention, precise deduction, and strategic decision-making.

• Sensory integration: Proprioception and interoception inform our responses to emotional and social cues with accuracy and nuance.

• Nonlinear social fluency: We understand people by noticing behaviors, not by relying on social templates or stereotypes.

• SPIN-powered cognition: Special interests are not distractions — they are the engines of learning and innovation.

• Autonomy in method: We prefer to figure things out ourselves and follow processes that make logical sense, even when unconventional.

• Strategic solitude: Alone time isn’t loneliness — it’s essential cognitive processing time for autistic thinkers.

• Injustice sensitivity: Bottom-up logic often clashes with top-down authority, particularly when systems are unfair or inconsistent.

• Visionary pattern recognition: Autistic culture leads in science, logic, and systems design because we see the overlooked details that make up the whole.

Autistic people, generally speaking, process information bottom-up. We start with details, anomalies, inconsistencies. We don’t assume the “big picture” first—we build it ourselves. This cognitive style clashes in top-down cultures, but fits more comfortably in bottom-up ones. In bottom-up cultures, autistic cognition can be framed as insight. In top-down cultures, it is often framed as insubordination or incompetence.

What you’re about to hear is a special remastered version of an earlier episode from our archives that keys in on Pillar 1 with a deep dive on another fictional bottom-up processor, the OG, Sherlock Holmes.

As you listen to this episode, notice references to bottom-up processing and how that pillar holds up other aspects of Autistic people, for instance, why it makes stimming so important, or small talk so infuriating.

Start thinking of the ways these pillars have been weaponized and medicalized. How even Sir Arthur Conan Doyle turns Sherlock into a misanthrope, or Sherlock himself becomes an opium addict, because of the pathologization of his natural culture.

As you listen and pay attention to that bottom-up pillar with deeper context, I want you to think of how your internalized ableism has caused you to push back on your own bottom-up processing and instead try seeing where you can lean into it and how that might improve your mental health.

So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.

We’re saving you a seat!

This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!

Related Episodes:

Chess is Autistic

Lessons in ChemistryBroadway is Autistic - particularly the references to Sondheim, whose musicals are very bottom-up!Washington DC is Autistic

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

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An episode that writes itself through the fog!

In Episode 132 we’re diving into something central to the autistic experience: confusion—especially in social situations—and how writing through that confusion can become a powerful act of identity development. Plus we announce our amazing winners from our first-ever writing contest—over 100 neurodivergent writers entered!Here are our top two entries.

OUR WINNERThe Snowglobe by Jessica Weiss

"Shaken, settled. Shaken, shutdown. Shattered…Spilled."

THE RUNNER UPby Daisy

"Sensitive, oddball, mystic, or undiagnosed autistic?"Congrats to our winners and to see all the finalists. You can see them all here.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We read our top 10 finalists from the first writing prompt for Neurodivergent Narratives and announce our 1st and 2nd prize winners. These memoirs were stunning, surprising, and profoundly relatable, any of them could have won!

• So much of being autistic in a neurotypical world means living in a perpetual state of confusion—social rules that feel made up, conversations that shift without warning, expectations that aren't stated until you've already broken them.

• The Double Empathy Problem:This theory, coined by autistic scholar Damian Milton, shows that communication breakdowns between autistic and non-autistic people are mutual—not one-sided. It challenges the deficit model by proving that autistic people understand each other just fine—it’s the cross-cultural mismatch that causes a lot confusion.

• The “Wrong Planet” Feeling:Many autistic people describe feeling like aliens on Earth—constantly misunderstanding and being misunderstood, even in the simplest of social situations. That “culture shock” feeling? It's because autistic culture truly is a different culture.

• The Grief and the “Not a Duck” Moment:Discovering you’re autistic later in life can bring a rush of clarity—but also a tidal wave of grief and confusion. You realize that your entire life could have been easier if you had just known. There’s grief, yes—but also a seed of healing.

• Stimming Through Confusion:Often, when confusion builds up, our bodies try to help regulate us through movement—stimming isn’t just joy, it’s also processing. For many, writing is a form of stimming with language, helping sort sensory and emotional overwhelm into clarity.

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The “I’m So Confused” Contest

A radical reclaiming of voice.

Simple on the surface—but for many of us in autistic culture, those three words echo through entire chapters of our lives.

PROMPT: Write a fictional short story in any genre that includes the line: “I’m so confused.”

⚠️Your story must include the line: “I’m so confused.” and your story may not be any longer than 500 words.

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, May 21 at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are final

Use the hashtag #SoConfused on social media to share this contest.

Submit Your Entry Here: https://forms.gle/EzSNgVcUyf5E8QVa8

Full Contest Rules are here.Resources:Find Jessica Weiss on Substack -

Double Empathy problem - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1362361315586721Find More Writing Contests Here - https://authorspublish.com/57-literary-journals-that-pay-their-authors/

Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26

Related Articles on our Substack:Autism is a Culture NOT a Disorder - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/autistic-blog-autism-autistic-cultureUnmasking Autism Diary #20: Not a Duck -https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/autistic-blog-unmasking

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An episode that welcomes you to a brand-new chapter in this project - one that has been years in the making!

In Episode 131 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we are revisiting the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture! What you’re about to hear is a special remastered version of an earlier episode that introduced the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture, plus updated context and reflections from me about what it means in this new chapter. These are the building blocks of everything we’re creating together going forward.

This episode originally aired in January 2024, and since this episode first aired, I’ve taken a deeper look at the structure of the show and the framework we use to understand autistic culture.

I’ve refined the 10 Pillars updating their names, sharpening the descriptions, and better connecting them to our lived traits, like sensory processing differences, stimming, emotional intensity, and our beautiful SPINs.

What you’ll hear in this episode is the heart of the work but think of it as the “draft” version.

Over the next 10 weeks, I’ll be highlighting one updated pillar each week with a replay of an episode that really brings that theme to life. I’ll also share new context and reflections to go deeper. We'll unpack what each one means, how it shows up in our lives, and why it’s worth celebrating.

But I wanted to bring you this episode just as it aired because even though things have changed, this conversation holds so many gems, and it was a joyful reflection of where we were. And now, we get to go even deeper.

Lets quickly walk you through what those 10 pillars are now. You might notice a few name changes:

• Bottom-Up Processing (formerly “Logic and Strategy”)We build understanding from the ground up detail by detail, pattern by pattern. Think Sherlock Holmes, chess masters, scientific discovery.

• Rhythmic Communicating (formerly “Linguistics and Accents”)Our conversations are musical echolalia, scripting, tangents, infodumps. There’s a beat, a flow, a poetry to how we speak.

• Norm Challenging (formerly “Deep Thinking and Insights”)We question assumptions. We live authentically. We honor truth over politeness, equity over hierarchy, and insight over illusion.

• World BuildingWe don’t just tell stories we create entire universes. Pokémon. Star Wars. Dungeons & Dragons. Autistic imagination builds the future.

• Pattern Matching (formerly “Data Gathering and Analysis”)SPINs. Trivia nights. Wikipedia editing. Sexuality research. We find the signal in the noise and bring meaning to the chaos.

• Game Changing (formerly “Innovative Ideas”)We’re not following trends we’re starting them. We rethink, reinvent, and rebuild systems from the ground up. Think Steve Jobs. Questlove. Muybridge.

• Boldly Creating (formerly “Artistic Expression”)We paint with stims. We sing in scripts. We dance in sensory rhythm. Our creativity is intense, embodied, and often unconventional.

• Predictably Comforting (formerly “Consistency and Reliability”)Repetition, routines, safe foods, rituals. These aren’t rigidity they’re anchors. Comfort. Stability. Power.

• Justice Seeking (formerly “Justice and Honesty”)Fairness isn’t optional it’s essential. Emotional intensity meets ethical clarity. From Greta Thunberg to John McEnroe we stand for truth.

• Passionate Superfanning (formerly “Superfanning and Fictional Friends”)Star Trek. Doctor Who. My Little Pony. Our love runs deep and our joy is contagious. Fandom is family. Lore is love.

These 10 pillars map across three major domains of life:🎭 Arts & Entertainment🪴 Lifestyle & Leisure🏛️ Society, Values & Knowledge

And across all of them, we’ll be celebrating the best of Autistic Culture through history, pop culture, storytelling, and personal experience.

So whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people you are welcome here.

You are part of Autistica!

Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about the 10 pillars of Autistic Culture — from Bottom-Up Processing and World Building to Justice Seekin! And over this series, we’ll be celebrating the best of Autistic Culture through history, pop culture, storytelling, and personal experience! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Autistic Culture for Teens and Tweens

My Chemical Romance is Autistic

Taylor Swift is Autistic

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An episode that encourages you to lean into your weird through writing!

In Episode 130 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon kicks off a brand-new mini-series: Neurodivergent Narratives! Are you ready to unmask on the page and write your truth? In this heartfelt and inspiring episode,

Angela shares her lifelong spin on writing (starting with a childhood book called They Wed), offers a peek behind her contest-winning piece The Heart of Us vs. The Truths We Hide, and unveils the first prompt in a brand-new weekly writing contest—open to everyone and absolutely FREE through July!

Each week brings a new writing tip, a featured winner, and a new prompt to explore your neurodivergent identity. Whether you're a seasoned writer or just getting started, this is your chance to get published, get heard, and maybe even get paid.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• Learn about the Neurodivergent Narratives virtual writing circle

• Discover the power of narrative healing for autistic and neurodivergent people

• Hear Angela’s moving essay about identity, silence, and breaking generational rules

• Join the free weekly writing contest—submissions open now!

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: The 6-Word Identity Declaration Contest

A radical reclaiming of voice—in six words.

What can you say about who you are, what you’ve survived, or what you believe—in just six words?

PROMPT: Write a six-word response that speaks your neurodivergent truth.

Examples:

• “I’m not broken, just different.”

• “Mask off. Voice on. Finally.”

• “Sensory, sacred, soft, strong, seen.”

• “Burnout broke me. Writing rebuilt me.”

• “Diagnosis: devastation. Then came rebirth.”

This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.

Submit your six words.Let Your Voice Be Heard.

THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, May 14 at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on the substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are final

Use the hashtag #6WordVoice on social media to share this contest.

Resources:

Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uuNEuNBWH3tzTIwVWjadTp1Bq11y1GC-W6ofqBwPNKo/preview

Listen to more 6 word memoirs on this awesome NPR podcast

Irish Autistic Literary Anthology: Wired Our Own Wayhttps://a.co/d/1kfNSSa My Cousin Mike’s book, Going Homehttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WWBFL12Full Contest Rules are here.Related Episodes:

Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)

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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’ Bio

Jude 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 Podcast

Did 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/about

Ashlen 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.com

Related Episodes:

Fighting Internalized Ableism

Academia and Ableism

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An episode that takes a walk down an alternative path.

In Episode 128 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we talk with a guest who is not just a long time listener and supporter of the show, but also an autistic parent of two late-diagnosed autistic young adults. Chrissy and her husband embraced radical unschooling, allowing their children to lead their own learning journeys. What it is, how it works, and why it’s been such a game-changer for Chrissy’s family?

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We discuss what exactly is unschooling and how is it different from regular home-schooling.

• Chrissy and Angela share their experiences parenting as an autistic person while also raising autistic kids, answering the most common critiques and concerns about unschooling.

• How do you respond when people ask, “But what about socialization?”

• Why reframing unschooling as a way of affirming neurodivergent autonomy should be seen as Autistic liberation.

• If someone wants to unschool but can’t go “all in” due to work, custody, or finances—what are a few principles they could try on anyway?

Chrissy Gardiner's Bio

Chrissy Gardiner is an autistic mom of two late-diagnosed AuDHD young adults. Chrissy and her husband embraced radical unschooling, allowing their children to lead their own learning journeys. She holds a master’s degree in liberal arts with a focus on history and Black studies and is currently pursuing nursing school, aiming to research best practices for autistic patients.

Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about the experiences of for parents who are unschooling their autistic children and why it’s been such a game-changer for Chrissy’s family. If unschooling isn’t an option for you right now—remember: every moment you make space for autonomy, consent, and curiosity—you’re already doing the work! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Parenting Autistic Kids

Child-to-parent Diagnostic Pipeline

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This episode is an important announcement. Matt Lowry LPP has decided to step away as a Co-Host and will not longer be apart of The Autistic Culture Podcast.

Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• This episode is being put out there to explain what happened to prevent gossip, rumors, or unnecessary speculation about Matt’s decision to depart the show. The work Matt and I did together mattered—and deserves to be honored with truth, not drama.

• The Autistic Culture Podcast WILL CONTINUE with Angela but will be different for the upcoming season 4 - all is explained in this episode!

• The last advocacy episode will come out as usual on Friday while the last official episode of Season 3 will come out on May 6th.

Matt’s contributions to the Autistic Culture Podcast will always be part of our foundation and I wish him the very best for the future.

See the Full Correspondence between Matt and I here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mgd5dBhwP6wAvVBJkvNV34063bcYwjC0IPr4aziZkic/edit

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An episode that gets right in the feels.

Please note that this episode contains discussions about, death, suicide and self harm.

In Episode 126 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore how grief extends beyond the loss of a person with guest Mady Snyder—an autistic, PDA, ADHD, OCD, and cPTSD-identified therapist—who specializes in exactly this kind of nuance. Why do we grieve the loss of routines, relationships, and expectations. She’s here to help us unpack the ways autistic grief is different—not broken, not less, just different.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• We discuss the concept of ambiguous loss, the limitations of traditional grief models, and the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief.

• Mady and Angela breakdown the role of special interests in processing grief and the impact of grief on the nervous system.

• We share various coping strategies, the significance of personal rituals, the importance of understanding individual needs, and the impact of social invalidation on the grieving process.

• Additionally, we address the challenges of internalized ableism and the importance of recognizing diverse expressions of grief and why you can grieve a grilled-cheese sandwich.

Mady Synder's Bio

Mady Snyder, LMFT, is a neuroaffirming therapist in private practice in Pasadena. She specializes in Autism, PDA, parenting, and mixed neurotype relationships. She’s also a consultant and educator committed to building environments where neurodivergent people can actually thrive. Oh—and when she’s not doing all that? She’s singing to her cats.

Mady’s Website

Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief — from the concept of ambiguous loss to the limitations of traditional grief models. We also explore coping strategies and the significance of personal rituals, the challenges of internalized ableism, and the necessity of finding supportive resources that cater to neurodiverse individuals! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Autistic Sleep Problems

Aging and Executive Function

Autistic Affirming Social Skills

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An episode that hits hard and stays in bounds!

In Episode 125 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore the unexpected overlap between roller derby and autistic identity with guest Carina Taylor — a neurodivergent therapist and seasoned skater. From emotional regulation to alter egos, this episode dives into how the sport offers structure, expression, and community for autistic and neurodivergent individuals alike.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• In this episode, Angela chats with Carina Taylor — a primary therapist at Foundations in Asheville, North Carolina and a roller derby extraordinaire — about the unique connections between roller derby and autism.

• We dive into roller derby technique and clear up some common misconceptions (no, it’s not choreographed — and no, it’s not all about aggression). But it does bring out some big emotions and serious intensity.

• Despite its rough-and-tumble reputation, roller derby is a highly organized sport with a detailed rule set and a strong emphasis on strategy and teamwork. It’s also one of the most gender-inclusive sports out there, creating space for athletes of all gender identities to participate, compete, and feel represented on the track.

• Additionally, roller derby often involves adopting a persona or alter ego — a playful, empowering form of masking that allows skaters to fully step into a character and express parts of themselves that might not surface in everyday life.

• Roller derby offers a powerful outlet for emotional expression, allowing skaters to channel complex feelings—like frustration, excitement, and vulnerability—into physical movement and team connection. The structure and creativity of the sport provide a safe, supportive space where emotions aren’t just allowed but embraced. For many, especially neurodivergent individuals, it becomes a form of regulation, empowerment, and authentic self-expression both on and off the track.

Carina Taylor's Bio

Carina (she/her) is a primary therapist at Foundations in Asheville, a young adult transition community located in the mountains of North Carolina. Originally from Pennsylvania, Carina completed her Bachelor’s in Sociology with minors in Psychology and Social Work at Bridgewater College in Virginia and her Master’s in Social Work at East Tennessee State University. As a Primary Therapist at Foundations, she provides therapy that focuses on values exploration, identity development, resilience expansion, and trauma-informed care including EMDR therapy. One of her biggest goals when working with students is to help them normalize what they are experiencing and why they are experiencing it, while moving through their experiences in a more resilient and settled state. In her free time, she enjoys being active, including roller derby!

Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about all things roller derby — from the rules and strategy to the emotional intensity it brings out in skaters. We also explore how this high-energy, gender-inclusive sport offers a powerful outlet for neurodivergent and autistic individuals to express themselves, connect with community, and even embrace a bold alter ego. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Special thanks to our friends at Shrub Oak International for making this episode happen. Shrub Oak offers a personalized, strength-based education on a serene 127-acre campus. Their transdisciplinary team collaborates to create individualized learning plans that honor each student's passions and needs. Beyond academics, they provide clinical services, life skills development, and a rich array of activities—from art and music to therapeutic horsemanship—all designed to your kid feeling actually happy—not just compliant.

If you're searching for a school that truly understands and nurtures autistic students, visit shruboak.org to learn more.Resources:Smokey Mountain Roller Derby - https://www.facebook.com/SmokyMountainRollerGirls/ Foundations Asheville - https://foundationsasheville.com

Related Episodes:Belly Dancing is AutisticFollow us on Instagram

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An episode that tries to make it make sense.

In Episode 124 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, “Justice for Victor,” we confront the tragic police killing of 17-year-old autistic Puerto Rican teen Victor Perez and the systemic failures that led to his death. Centering voices from the Black neurodivergent community, this powerful conversation demands a reimagining of autistic justice beyond white-centered narratives. This episode is a call to action for the autism and neurodiversity movements to prioritize true equity, accountability, and liberation for all.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

• In this powerful and somber episode, Angela is joined by Black autistic advocates Faith Clarke and Darren Calhoun to discuss the heart breaking murder of Victor Perez, a non-speaking autistic Puerto Rican teenager.

• On April 5th, Victor Perez—a 17-year-old autistic, disabled Puerto Rican teen—was shot by police in his own front yard. He is no longer with us. And now, his family is left to grieve in a system that failed him at every level.

• Darren Calhoun is a justice advocate, worship leader, and photographer based in Chicago. He’s the co-host of the Second Sunday podcast, and his work bridges communities across race, gender, and neurodivergence. Darren is a powerful voice for intersectionality and faith-based inclusion, and he’s someone who speaks truth with clarity and compassion.

• Faith Clarke wrote her best selling book Parenting Like a Ninja with Angela and it was based in part on her experience as a business owner and mom of a non-speaking autistic son (and a couple of other neurodivergent humans too).

• We are especially grateful to Tiffany Hammond who you might remember from our Monster’s High episode a couple of weeks ago — whose writing on her fidgets and fries Instagram in response to Victor’s death called me into deeper reflection. Her words were a turning point for us.

• Victor’s Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-victor-perez

Victor is not the first. He joins a growing list of young, Black and Brown neurodivergent lives—Stephon Watts. Elijah McClain. Ryan Gainer.

Their stories demand justice.

This episode is about what happened. What should have happened. And what needs to happen next—if we truly want a movement that’s rooted in liberation for all of us. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Trivia is Autistic (Episode 27)

Monster High Is Autistic (Episode 117)

Listen to Darren Calhoun on Second Sunday Podcast

Buy Faith Clarkes Book

Faith’s Substack -

Refrenced in this episode:

We Will Rest!: The Art of Escape

Rest Is Resistance: Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your life

Tiffany Hammond - https://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/

Camille Proctor/ Color of Autism Foundation https://www.instagram.com/colorofautism/

Othering and Belonging institute: John Powell

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An episode that explores autistic and neurodivergent representation in The Big Bang Theory and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. From Sheldon’s neurotypical framing to Charlie Kelly’s proudly autistic chaos, we break down what hits, what misses, and why it matters.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• In today’s episode, we’re diving into It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and how it nails autistic representation—unlike The Big Bang Theory, which mostly reflects a neurotypical perspective.

• We start by breaking down what The Big Bang Theory got right—and wrong—about autism, touching on Young Sheldon and the dynamic between Sheldon and Amy.

• After that, we dive into how It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is actually deeply autism-centric, even if it’s not explicitly framed that way.

• Then, we dive into how It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is deeply autism-centric—thanks in large part to Charlie Kelly, who is explicitly autistic and gives the show its neurodivergent heart.

• We also explore how the writers of It’s Always Sunny approach the show from a neurodivergent lens—crafting characters who consistently misunderstand the world around them in ways that feel deeply relatable to autistic viewers.

• Our hosts get into all the autistic tendencies throughout the show—from Sweet Dee, Dennis, and Charlie’s unique quirks to Charlie himself, who has openly identified as autistic multiple times.

• We also talk about how the humor in It’s Always Sunny is specifically tailored to an autistic audience and sense of humor—sharp, absurd, and rooted in social misunderstandings.

• Matt and Angela also discuss the concept of autistic integrity and how it shows up both in It’s Always Sunny and in the core values of this podcast.

• Sometimes we have to play the game of capitalism just to get by—but as long as you’ve got your crew of fellow weirdos to lean on, you’ll make it through.

“It’s representation, but at what cost? We don’t have a seat at the table. There is a picture on the table of a caricature of an autistic person. And then everyone else talking about how weird they are.” - Matt

“The impetus behind It’s Always Sunny was not, ‘hey, let’s make a marketable show and sell it and have lots of airtime and get in the top 20 or whatever.’ They’re like, ‘hey, you know what would be funny? If we did our own thing with a low-res video recorder.” - Matt

“They are very, very socially minded. They’re very, very self conscious about these things, which is the autistic way. They do things in the way that they do it because they think it’s the right thing to do. Whenever they see an issue, they want to call it out on the show. So they do it in the most blatant way possible so that the people watching it will be like, ‘hey, that’s an issue.” - Matt

Did you love this episode? We took a deep dive into autistic representation in pop culture—comparing The Big Bang Theory and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. From Sheldon and Amy’s dynamic to Charlie Kelly’s openly autistic identity, we unpack how neurodivergent humor, character quirks, and autistic integrity show up on screen. We also explore how Sunny nails an autistic lens through its writing, jokes, and chaotic logic. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Related Episodes:

Community is Autistic

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An episode that explores the intricate connections between MCAS, autism, and POTS through a neurodivergent lens and the principles of functional medicine. Jess Lewis joins Matt and Angela to share her personal journey, the impact of medical gaslighting, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• In today’s episode, we explore the link between MCAS and autism with special guest Jess Lewis — a functional medicine and trauma-informed neurodiversity advocate who supports individuals living with MCAS.

• Jess talks about how getting COVID and being around mold kicked her mast cells into overdrive.

• When our bodies are under too much stress, a dysregulated nervous system can send our mast cells into overdrive. Since autistic people are being forced to navigate a neurotypical world, we are more prone to this.

• We delve into the experience of medical gaslighting and the struggle to access supportive care while living with MCAS.

• Additionally, we discuss the importance of a low-histamine diet when managing MCAS and how it can play a key role in reducing symptoms.

• Our hosts and Jess explore the connection between POTS and autism, and share strategies for calming and stabilizing overactive mast cells.

• We then dive into the topic of anaphylaxis and how it can occur when mast cells become severely dysregulated. Jess breaks down what happens in the body during an anaphylactic response — and how, in those with MCAS, even seemingly minor triggers can lead to a cascade of symptoms when the immune system is already in a heightened state of alert.

• Finally, we explore the intersection of practical and functional medicine, and how blending both approaches can offer more comprehensive support for those with complex conditions like MCAS.

“When you go to the doctor, think about it like a work meeting. Have a plan, have an agenda, have the questions laid out. Use your superpowers of deep research. Bring studies - not to be combative, but just to say, ‘I wanna colaborate on this. Here’s what I’m seeing, here’s what I’m thinking. And if your doctor doesn’t wanna listen to you, go find another doctor. Feel good about the boundaries you put in front of yourself, because you gotta advocate.” - Jess Lewis

“If I can change one mind, I can change several minds… If I could change things for just a few people to have the lightbulb go off, to say, ‘I’ve got your back. I want to be the advocate for you. I want you to be the advocate for yourself.” - Jess Lewis

Did you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the intersection of MCAS, autism, and neurodivergent health experiences. From medical gaslighting to the overlap with POTS and nervous system dysregulation, we unpack what it means to live in a body that's constantly on high alert. We also explore the importance of functional medicine, low-histamine diets, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Jess Lewis (she/they) is a Chief Technology Officer, turned MCAS researcher, and founder of the Mast Cell Support community. After reversing her own severe case of MCAS triggered by COVID and mold exposure, Jess now helps others heal using an evidence-based, neurodivergent-friendly approach rooted in functional medicine and trauma-informed care. She’s currently pursuing a PhD in Functional Medicine with a specialty in Mast Cell health and comorbidities, and brings a deep, systems-thinking lens to both her health advocacy and her continued leadership in tech.

Show Notes

Threads, Instagram, Substack: @jesslewisAdditional info and links: https://subscribepage.io/jesslewis

jesslewis.comCommunity - https://community.mastcellsupport.com/invitation

Food Guide Pharmacy

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quercetin

Related Episodes:

Autistic Medical Needs (Episode 14)Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)Autistic Medical Needs, Part 2 (Episode 108)

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An episode that explores the impact of My Chemical Romance through an autistic and neurodivergent perspective. Matt, Angela, and our sound engineer Simon Scott break down how the band’s emotional intensity, justice themes, and outsider energy have made them a lasting icon within the autistic community.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• Today, we’re taking a deep dive into My Chemical Romance and exploring how they reflect and embody elements of the autistic experience.

• Our podcast producer, sound engineer, and behind-the-scenes magic man, Simon Scott, steps in front of the mic today to talk about his special interest.

• We kick things off with the ultimate lore deep dive—tracing the butterfly effect from 9/11 all the way to Ellen DeGeneres getting canceled (yes, it is connected to My Chemical Romance, and yes, it makes sense… eventually).

• After witnessing the Twin Towers fall from the Hudson River on 9/11, Gerard Way felt a deep urge to create something bigger than himself—something that could connect people through shared emotion and purpose. Out of that moment, My Chemical Romance was born.

• We then dive into how bottom-up processing and autistic hyper-empathy may have influenced Gerard’s decision—how taking in overwhelming sensory and emotional details of the moment could have sparked a need to respond in a deeply personal, creative, and connective way.

• The band went on to write, produce, perform, and publish their entire first album within a week—a hyperfixation-fueled feat that no neurotypical could realistically pull off with the same intensity, focus, and urgency.

• Their albums are deeply narrative, with each one following characters that symbolically represent the band members themselves. The first two albums build a layered universe that culminates in their third release—Welcome to the Black Parade—widely regarded as their magnum opus and a defining moment in emo and alternative music history.

• We unpack the imagery in the “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” music video and how it resonates with many autistic traits—highlighting themes of social rejection, masking, sensory overwhelm, and the desperate need to be understood in a world that constantly misunderstands you.

• Next, we explore themes of justice sensitivity woven throughout MCR’s lyrics—a trait commonly linked to the autistic experience—and how the so-called “autistic accent” subtly shapes the cadence, rhythm, and emotional delivery of their songs, adding layers of urgency, vulnerability, and authenticity.

• Our hosts and Simon dive into the rich subculture that’s emerged from the band’s work—a world built by and for the outcasts, the overly emotional, the neurodivergent, and those who never quite fit in. MCR didn’t just create music—they created a movement, a safe haven, and a language for people who feel everything too much.

• Finally, we dive into expectation sensitivity, unpack the reasons behind the band’s 8-year hiatus, and reflect on their powerful return—why their message hits harder than ever in today’s world and why we still need MCR now more than ever.

“I’d rather be a creature of the night than just some old dude.” - Gerard Way

“I disappoint a lot of people. They expect me to be one way. If I spend a minute with them, they end up saying, ‘Oh, you’re actually just a really nice person. They hate me when they catch me out of my makeup.” - Gerard Way

“Neurotypical people tend to do things for power, prestige, and profit. He’s not doing it because he wants to maintain the My Chemical Romance empire. He’s not doing it because he wants to be famous. He’s not doing it because he wants all the money. He has a story to tell. He has a reason for doing the thing.” - Matt

Did you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the world of My Chemical Romance and how their music, message, and aesthetic embody key aspects of the autistic experience. From the butterfly effect of 9/11 to the cancellation of Ellen (yes, really), we trace the band’s origins, explore autistic hyper-empathy and justice sensitivity in their lyrics, and analyze how the “autistic accent” shows up in their sound. Plus, we break down the iconic “I’m Not Okay” music video and the subculture that’s made MCR a safe haven for neurodivergent weirdos everywhere. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

My Chemical Romance on Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Chemical_Romance

Black Parade in Musical Order -

Neurodivergent Experience -

Na Na Na Music Video:

Welcome to the Black Parade Music Video:

Related Episodes:Chess is Autistic

Freddie Mercury is Autistic

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An episode that dives deep on the myths of giftedness and “profound autism,” two tropes that lead to bad outcomes for Autistic people. We look at conservatorship, lack of autonomy, and substance abuse and their connections to these terms.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• In today's episode, Matt and Angela dive into the controversial discussion surrounding "profound autism."

• It turns out that "profound autism" isn’t a clinical term, but rather a label used by the ABA industry to restrict the number of autistic advocates who can speak for themselves.

• Calling it "profound autism" is more profitable than saying "level 3 autism" because it creates a sense of urgency, making it easier for the ABA industry to secure funding and promote more intervention-based services.

• In this episode, we explore the connection between giftedness and autism, and how gifted individuals face higher rates of addiction and substance abuse.

• The autism levels are directly tied to capitalism—how much money you can make often depends on how well you can mask your symptoms.

• Our hosts also discuss how terms like "indigo children" and "highly sensitive persons (HSPs)" are often just euphemisms for being autistic.

• Then, we dive into the ABA industry, the issues with Autism Speaks, and the impact of helicopter autism parents who prevent their children from learning and growing.

• We also talk about autistic pattern recognition and how it can sometimes feel like we're psychic, picking up on details others might miss.

• Matt and Angela discuss how pattern recognition can also serve as a survival skill, and how burnout manifests in everyone who is autistic.

• We elaborate on how autistic individuals can be more prone to substance abuse, often as a way to cope with sensory overload, social challenges, or unmet needs.

• Then, we dive into the concept of being a functional alcoholic and explore the connection between substance abuse and giftedness.

• We discuss Dan Harmon, creator of Rick and Morty, and how his autistic burnout led to struggles with alcoholism and missed deadlines.

• Finally, we explore reframing autism in terms of "masking levels" rather than outdated "functioning" labels.

“What people don’t understand is that, when it comes to the autism, we just have the autism. It might have some comorbid characteristics with other stuff - for instance, ‘profound autism’ might have some intellectual disability. But it doesn’t change the nature of the autism, it just changes the operating system that you’re working with. It changes the hardware that you’re working with.” - Matt

“The autism is the autism. It is the hyper-connected brain. It is the hyper-connected brain. It is the genetic underpinning that changes everything about us.” - Matt

“You could be gifted, but God forbid the word ‘autistic’ with no qualifiers just comes out of your mouth. I don’t know what happens. I think God throws Zeus a bolt of lightning. Something must happen.” - Angela

“I have had periods in my life where I actually thought I must be psychic because these things would happen. I’d be like, ‘my god, I think I’m psychic. And then I realized, ‘shit, I’m just pattern matching.” - Angela

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the controversial label of "profound autism" and how it's used to limit autistic self-advocacy. We also dove into the connection between giftedness and substance abuse, the role of pattern recognition as a survival skill, and the cycle of burnout and underemployment in the autistic community. Plus, we break down the issues with Autism Speaks, the ABA industry, and helicopter autism parents. Tune in and share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

Harmontown Movie -

Related Episodes:Sherlock is Autistic

Community is Autistic

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An episode of giant proportions!

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• To kick off the episode, we’re diving into the origins of They Might Be Giants back in 1982 in Brooklyn—and of course, we have to talk about their legendary Dial-A-Song fan hotline, which they kept running all the way until 2008!

• TMBG is entirely supported by their fan club rather than a record label—and as a special perk, they create a personalized song for each paying member!

• Also, their whole fan base is definitely 90% autistic.

• Both Johns of TMBG have openly identified as neurodivergent, with John Linnell specifically describing himself as autistic.

• Next, we dive into the autistic coding in certain TMBG songs—like Upside Down Frown, which seems to be about masking, and Dr. Worm, which is absolutely a special interest anthem.

• Rejection sensitivity, pattern matching, burnout, info-dumping, and sensory overload are all major autistic themes that show up throughout their music, woven into their lyrics in a way that feels both deeply personal and incredibly relatable.

• A lot of their work also features history-infodumps, with one of the most famous examples being their 1990 hit Istanbul (Not Constantinople)—a perfect example of their love for educational, hyper-specific storytelling.

• Finally, we explore the deep autistic connection and sense of community built through music—especially how TMBG’s fan club structure fosters that, creating a space where like-minded fans can bond over their shared love for the band’s unique, neurodivergent-friendly artistry.

“I can’t ignore music when it’s in a room. If I’m in a restaurant and I hear music, I feel oppressed by it.” - John Linnell

“I have a latent desire for maximum efficiency of movement, which is motivated by laziness. I spend a fair amount of time thinking of the easiest way to do things.” - John Linnell

“Yeah, that’s an autistic song right there. That’s the kind of song you come up with after reading Wikipedia at three in the morning.” - Matt

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the deep autistic coding in They Might Be Giants' music, from themes of masking, rejection sensitivity, and sensory overload to their love of history-infodumps and special interest anthems. Tune in as we break down fan favorites like Dr. Worm and Upside Down Frown, and discuss how TMBG’s fan club structure fosters autistic connection and community. Share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

Angela’s TMBG is Autistic companion playlist:

Musical References of TMBG:

Stuff is the Way: ​​

Favorite TMBG Quotes: https://www.reddit.com/r/tmbg/comments/189sult/what_are_sole_of_your_favorite_lyrics_from_they/

Best TMBG Songs: https://www.buzzfeed.com/jeanlucbouchard/they-might-be-giants-best-songs

https://www.moonhooch.com/

Related Episodes:

QuestLove is Autistic

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An episode that turns the hands of time.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

• On today’s episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela take a deep dive into executive functioning and how it shifts over time as we age.

• Our hosts explore the evolving demands on executive functioning, from managing basic hygiene and meals to handling responsibilities like paying rent, bills, driving, and working as we grow older.

• We discuss how advancements in technology and evolving systems have increased executive functioning demands—such as navigating self-checkout, managing multiple streaming service payments, and handling other modern responsibilities.

• Then, we dive into unsolicited neurotypical advice on managing executive function—like “just use a calendar” or the dreaded “think positively!”—and why these suggestions often miss the mark.

• We then explore the connection between executive functioning and autistic inertia, as well as how body doubling can be a helpful strategy.

• Next, we discuss masking in the corporate world and why it simply doesn’t work for autistic individuals.

• Our hosts share their personal unmasking journeys and discuss how to navigate the shift toward authenticity.

• We then dive into the often comorbid health conditions that commonly accompany autism, including but not limited to PMDD, POTS, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome.

• Finally, we discuss the impact of trauma and CPTSD on autistic lives, as well as the intersection of autism and menopause.