In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr. Angela Kingdon is joined by Jude Millsāautistic theologian, interfaith minister, and host of Fkd Up by Faithāfor a deep exploration into how cults and extremist religious movements intersect with autistic culture. This isnāt just a trauma story. Itās a culture story.
Together, we unpack how autistic traits like emotional honesty, deep focus, and commitment to logic can draw us into high-demand religious systemsāand what it takes to get out.
š§ What Youāll Learn
- Why autistic people are often drawn into cultsāand why we might stay longer than others
- How the very traits that make us vulnerable are also reflected in many cult leaders
- What happens when your SPIN (Special Interest) used to be Jesus, prophecy, or Revelation
- How to mourn or reframe a spiritual system that once gave your life meaning
- Why autistic people may face unique challengesāand strengthsāon the journey out
- How leaving isnāt failure. Itās freedom. And itās a return to self-trust.
š Featuring guest Jude Mills, interfaith minister, spiritual counsellor, and host of Fkd Up By Faithāa podcast exploring healing for those hurt by religion.
šļø Listen to Jude's podcast and learn more: fkbupbyfaith.com
Resources:
Richard Turner ā UK-based autistic cult recovery counsellor
Ashlen Hilliard ā US-based cult recovery advocate
Alexandra Stein and Janja Lalich ā researchers and educators on cult dynamics
Related Episodes:
Fighting Internalized Ableism
Academia and Ableism
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