A significant change is afoot as one co-host bids farewell, prompting a heartfelt reflection on their shared journey. The conversation addresses exciting new directions, including upcoming topics on homeschooling and autistic culture. A fresh writing contest is introduced, alongside plans for rebranding and evolving the podcast's vision. The emotional complexity of change is navigated with gratitude for past collaborations while emphasizing community support and inviting listener feedback for future content.
Matt Lowry's departure marks a significant transition for the podcast, emphasizing the challenges autistics face with change and loss.
Miscommunication around financial decisions led to tensions between Matt and Dr. Angela, illustrating the complexities of partnerships even among friends.
The podcast will evolve into new directions with a focus on audience contributions, aiming to celebrate autistic culture and narratives.
Deep dives
Change Within the Podcast Team
A significant change occurred as one of the hosts, Matt, decided to leave the show, marking an unexpected transition for the podcast. Dr. Angela expressed her struggle with this change, highlighting how autistics often find change difficult and emphasizing the importance of honoring Matt's contributions. The podcast will continue, but without Matt's presence, it will inevitably transform. This shift has left both the host and the listeners dealing with feelings of loss and grief over the loss of a beloved team member.
The Misunderstanding Behind Disagreements
The host explained the context of misunderstandings that arose concerning financial decisions related to a speaking engagement. Dr. Angela took on most logistical work, while Matt's remote participation left her feeling underappreciated for her efforts. An incident regarding expense deductions caused tension, as Matt felt blindsided when Dr. Angela reduced their speaking fee to account for expenses without previously consulting him. This miscommunication spiraled into larger disagreements, demonstrating how financial dynamics can complicate partnerships even among friends.
Contributions and Legitimacy Concerns
Matt expressed concerns regarding contributions to their collaborated book, feeling undercredited for his professional expertise. Dr. Angela acknowledged this perspective, feeling that the book showcased their shared experiences but unintentionally belittled Matt's credentials. The conflict highlighted themes of appropriation and recognition, as Dr. Angela grappled with her desire to fairly attribute contributions while also confronting feelings of being undervalued herself. As they navigated this emotional terrain, it became clear that clear communication and acknowledgment of each other's talents were critical.
Grieving a Loss and Moving Forward
The host shared the deep sense of grief experienced due to the abrupt end of their partnership, spotlighting the emotional toll this change has taken on both her and the community. She highlighted what made their partnership special and how much the audience appreciated both hosts' contributions. As they transition, the podcast will honor Matt's legacy but will also forge ahead with new initiatives, hoping to create a supportive space for their listeners. Dr. Angela expressed commitment to the future of the show, emphasizing the importance of adapting and embracing new directions.
Upcoming Changes and New Directions
Future plans for the podcast include an emphasis on literary contributions from their audience, with new episodes focusing on writing as a creative outlet. Dr. Angela plans to open submissions for a Neurodivergent Narratives Anthology, inviting listeners to share their experiences through writing. Additionally, the podcast will undergo a rebranding phase, with new content aimed at capturing the essence of autistic culture and further engaging the community. These forthcoming projects present opportunities for fresh perspectives, allowing the podcast to evolve while honoring its foundational principles.
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:
