Dr. Devon Price, author of 'Unmasking Autism' and 'Laziness Does Not Exist,' shares their experiences coming out as trans and autistic, the unsettling feeling of gender success, and why autistic folks are more likely to be out as queer and trans. The podcast explores ADHD, autism, and neurodivergence, personal transformation through top surgery, unmasking autism, shedding myths and embracing neurodiversity, and the outdated knowledge connected to ableism.
Embracing authentic relationships supports personal growth while transitioning as a trans person.
Self-realization is common in the autistic community, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging neurodiversity.
Radical acceptance and vulnerability contribute to deeper connections, personal growth, and navigating conflicts.
Deep dives
Exploring the Spectrum of ADHD
The speaker discusses the spectrum of ADHD, challenging the notion of a binary classification. They share their own experience of being hyperactive as a child and feeling labeled as ADHD, despite not receiving an official diagnosis. They emphasize the importance of recognizing neurodivergence and understanding that everyone's experience of ADHD is unique.
Navigating Relationships and Identity
The speaker reflects on their journey of self-acceptance and coming to terms with their trans identity. They discuss the challenges of dating while transitioning and the fears of being perceived as less attractive to partners who identify as lesbians. They highlight the importance of creating space for oneself and embracing authentic relationships that support personal growth.
Unmasking Autism and Neurodiversity
The speaker shares their experience of discovering their autism diagnosis in their late twenties and the process of unmasking. They discuss the concept of neurodiversity and the different ways autism can present itself, emphasizing that self-realization is more common in the autistic community. They also explore the intersectionality of being queer, trans, and neurodivergent.
Acceptance and the Power of Vulnerability
The speaker talks about the process of radical acceptance and letting go of unrealistic expectations and societal pressures. They share the importance of being authentic and vulnerable in relationships, allowing for deeper connections and personal growth. They emphasize the value of investing in supportive friendships and finding strength in navigating conflicts and facing reality.
Diagnosis and Self-Realization
The speaker addresses the topic of formal diagnosis versus self-diagnosis in neurodivergent communities. They acknowledge the challenges of seeking diagnostic assessments for adults and the biases that exist in the assessment process. They highlight the supportive stance of the autistic community towards self-realization, while also recognizing the importance of formal diagnosis for legal protections and accommodations.
Fresh out of top surgery, author Dr. Devon Price ("Unmasking Autism," "Laziness Does Not Exist") talks coming out as trans and autistic, the unsettling feeling of gender "success" and why autistic folks are more likely to be out as queer and trans.
Hosted by Ally Beardsley and Babette Thomas, Gender Spiral is a quest to explore the modern experience of being a human in our gendered world.