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Autistic Culture Podcast | Neurodivergent Perspectives

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Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 10min

Autism and Grief (Episode 126)

Mady Snyder, a neuroaffirming therapist based in Pasadena, specializes in grief and neurodiversity. In this heartfelt discussion, she highlights how grief goes beyond the loss of a person, encompassing routines, relationships, and expectations. Mady shares insights on the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief, emphasizing the significance of special interests in the healing process. The conversation also touches on the impact of societal norms, personal rituals, and the need for understanding diverse expressions of grief, including the challenges of internalized ableism.
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Apr 22, 2025 • 41min

Roller Derby Is Autistic (Episode 125)

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 BioCarina (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.comRelated Episodes:Belly Dancing is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Apr 18, 2025 • 1h 7min

Justice For Victor (Episode 124)

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-perezVictor 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 PodcastBuy Faith Clarkes BookFaith’s Substack - Refrenced in this episode:We Will Rest!: The Art of EscapeRest Is Resistance: Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your lifeTiffany Hammond - https://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/Camille Proctor/ Color of Autism Foundation https://www.instagram.com/colorofautism/Othering and Belonging institute: John PowellFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Apr 16, 2025 • 1h 11min

Big Bang Theory vs. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: One is Autistic! (Episode 123)

Dive into the contrasting portrayals of autism in two iconic sitcoms. Discover how 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' embraces neurodivergent themes through characters like Charlie Kelly, who brings a relatable, chaotic energy. In contrast, the discussion critiques 'The Big Bang Theory' for its neurotypical framing and inaccuracies. Unpack the importance of authentic representation and how humor can resonate with autistic audiences. Overall, it’s a spirited examination of how TV shapes societal perceptions of neurodiversity.
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Apr 11, 2025 • 1h 4min

Navigating Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) with Jess Lewis (Episode 122)

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 LewisDid 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 NotesThreads, Instagram, Substack: @jesslewisAdditional info and links: https://subscribepage.io/jesslewisjesslewis.comCommunity - https://community.mastcellsupport.com/invitationFood Guide Pharmacyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QuercetinRelated Episodes:Autistic Medical Needs (Episode 14)Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)Autistic Medical Needs, Part 2 (Episode 108)Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Apr 8, 2025 • 1h 17min

My Chemical Romance Is Autistic (Episode 121)

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.” - MattDid 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_RomanceBlack Parade in Musical Order - Neurodivergent Experience -Na Na Na Music Video: Welcome to the Black Parade Music Video: Related Episodes:Chess is AutisticFreddie Mercury is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Apr 4, 2025 • 1h 9min

Twin Myths: Giftedness & "Profound Autism" (Episode 120)

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.” - AngelaDid 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 AutisticCommunity is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Apr 1, 2025 • 1h 7min

They Might Be Giants is Autistic (Episode 119)

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.” - MattDid 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-songshttps://www.moonhooch.com/Related Episodes:QuestLove is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe
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Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 9min

Aging and Executive Function (Episode 118)

Delve into the intricacies of executive functioning as it evolves with age. Discover the pressures on autistic individuals, from navigating daily tasks to tackling modern technology demands. Explore the inadequacy of typical advice and the concept of autistic inertia. Hear personal journeys of unmasking in the workplace and the challenges of maintaining authenticity. The discussion touches on comorbid health conditions and the impact of trauma on autistic lives, stressing the need for understanding and self-advocacy in the face of societal expectations.
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Mar 25, 2025 • 34min

Monster High Is Autistic (Episode 117)

An episode that’s spooky and spectacular! Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * Today's episode is all about the Monster High franchise! It’s a perfect topic since, as autistic people, we often relate to monsters—feeling different and set apart, just like they do.* Our special guest for this episode is Tiffany Hammond from the Fidgets and Fries Instagram account! An autistic mother and advocate, her activism is deeply rooted in intersectionality and challenging mainstream perceptions of autism.* We dive into all things advocacy, from the complexities of the “autism mom” narrative to the unique challenges of navigating the advocacy space as a Black autistic person.* We discuss the realities of autistic individuals encountering law enforcement and the often terrifying challenges that come with these interactions. From misunderstandings and sensory overload to the potential for dangerous outcomes, we explore why these situations can be so distressing and what needs to change to make them safer.* Tiffany also shares her experience teaching her Black autistic children about race, highlighting the unique challenges and nuances that come with discussing identity, privilege, and discrimination with neurodivergent kids.* Additionally, Tiffany then shares her experience consulting with Mattel on Twyla Boogeyman, the first canonically autistic Monster High character. She discusses the process of ensuring authentic representation, the importance of neurodivergent voices in media, and what this milestone means for autistic fans.* From body language to stim objects, every detail was carefully considered to ensure an authentic and meaningful portrayal of autism in Twyla’s character.* Finally, we explore the many forms of autism representation in media and the importance of diverse portrayals. While no single character can represent every autistic person, authentic representation can still make a powerful impact—helping even one autistic individual feel seen and understood.“We [autistic folks] tend to have an affinity for monsters because we are often misunderstood. We are often persecuted, villainized, & made out to be the bad guy because we are different. So, we often want to extend courtesy to monsters, because we say, ‘that beast surely is misunderstood. Perhaps there’s good things there.’” - Matt"“That’s a big problem with the world in general, because a lot of the world, especially neurotypical people, operate with sound bytes and hashtags and making things as simplistic as possible. But when you have the complex intersectionality of racism and colonialism and ableism and all this stuff contributing to make a real, massive threat, a danger to your existence, it’s so much bigger than that.” - Matt“She [Twyla Boogeyman] represents one kind of representation of what autism can be. This is just an invitation for the audience to learn more, for you to see that there is disabled representation, even in animated, made-up shows.” - Tiffany Hammond Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the impact of autism representation in media, from Monster High's canonically autistic character to the power of seeing ourselves reflected in pop culture. Tune in as we dive into how these portrayals shape our identities, creativity, and connections with others. Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with us and share your experiences!Show Notes:Tiffany Hammond (she/her) is the voice behind the Fidgets and Fries platform. She is an Autistic mother, advocate, and storyteller who uses her personal experiences with Autism and parenting two Autistic boys to guide others on their journey. Tiffany has a Masters in Developmental Psychology and spends her time teaching, coaching, and mentoring others in Disability Justice issues. Her activism is rooted in challenging the current perception of Autism as a lifelong burden, cultivating a community that explores the concept of Intersectionality and inspiring thought leaders through storytelling, education, and critical discourse. Tiffany was born and raised in Texas and grew up on deep dish pie and stories from her grandmother. She is a dreamer by day and a cereal killer at night. You can usually find Tiffany writing in the light of the moon or thinking about what to write in the light of the day. When she isn’t writing, she is building epic pillow forts with her two sons or going on long road trips with her family.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monster_Highhttps://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/https://bsky.app/profile/fidgetsandfries.bsky.socialSPELLRBOARD APP:Listener Julie Kazaks wanted to share that my oldest son released an app in the AppStore- a digital letterboard made for people who aren’t able to reliably use their voice.He created this app originally for his brother who has autism and is non speaking.I am helping him spread the word to help give a voice - everyone deserves to be heard.If you'd like to learn more and watch a demo- please check out the website.https://www.spellrboard.comShow notes:https://www.amazon.com/Day-No-Words-Tiffany-Hammond/dp/1736949799Related Episodes:Beauty and the Beast is AutisticXMen are AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Our Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

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