Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity!

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 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

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” ContestA 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 finalUse 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 #26Related 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-unmaskingFollow 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

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 & KnowledgeAnd 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 TweensMy Chemical Romance is AutisticTaylor Swift 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

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 ContestA 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 finalUse the hashtag #6WordVoice on social media to share this contest.Resources:Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1uuNEuNBWH3tzTIwVWjadTp1Bq11y1GC-W6ofqBwPNKo/previewListen to more 6 word memoirs on this awesome NPR podcastIrish 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)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

Jude Mills, an autistic theologian and host of Fkd Up By Faith, shares insights on cults within autistic culture. They discuss why many autistic individuals are drawn into cults and the traits that make them vulnerable. Mills also explores the emotional toll of losing faith and the complex journey of recovery. They highlight the manipulative tactics like love bombing used by cults, and how these experiences can deeply affect one's sense of identity. Expect a heartfelt discussion on spirituality, belonging, and the healing process.

Chrissy Gardiner, an autistic mom of two late-diagnosed AuDHD young adults, embraces radical unschooling, transforming how her family learns. She discusses the differences between unschooling and traditional homeschooling, addressing common concerns like socialization. Chrissy shares her experiences navigating parenting as a neurodivergent individual and challenges societal misconceptions about alternative education. The conversation highlights the importance of autonomy and personalized learning for neurodivergent children, promoting an inclusive perspective on education.

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.

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.

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 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

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