An episode that's the best at being The Worst!Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * In this episode, Matt and Angela delve into one of Angela's comfort shows, the FX series You're the Worst, exploring the aspects that make it inherently autistic.* You're the Worst, as Matt describes it, is about a group of individuals navigating life and doing the best they can despite enduring significant trauma (all while exuding strong autistic vibes).* Matt and Angela dive deep into character analyses of the show, uncovering autism-coded traits such as the prevalence of PTSD, sleep apnea, aversion to gender stereotypes, and other neurodivergent characteristics.* Matt discusses the characters of Becca and Vernon, highlighting how their exaggeratedly stereotypical neurotypical behavior borders on cartoonish.* In contrast, we dive into Jimmy's character with an in-depth analysis. He relies on scripting, struggles with relationships, exhibits behaviors shaped by trauma, and is deeply autistic-coded.* Our hosts explore the dichotomy of autistic experiences, discussing how the feeling of being misunderstood is a common thread for autistic individuals, much like what is portrayed through Jimmy's character.* We explore Jimmy's relationship with Gretchen on the show, discussing how they navigate their respective traumas to build a relationship that works uniquely for them.* Because sometimes being the worst is exactly what makes us the best—autistic vibes and all!“We put up these giant barriers when we’re traumatized. We become very avoidant of forming bonds with people. We actively push people away because we might get to have them and lose them.” - Matt (on navigating autistic interpersonal relationships)“We live in a world where non-traumatized autistics are not common. Just because we try desperately every day to fit into a world that is not made for us, where we try to adapt, where we burn out, where we push ourselves past our natural limits in order to do what is expected of us because otherwise, we have self-esteem issues, and we blame ourselves for not being good enough.” - MattDid you catch all the nuanced dynamics in You're the Worst? In today’s episode, we dive deep into its autistic-coded brilliance! Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fans on social media. Which characters or moments resonated with you the most?Resources:Related Episodes:Community Is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

Unraveling the origins—this episode speaks volumes!Here’s what’s to come in today’s episode: * In this episode, our hosts delve into the Takiwātanga meme—a popular social media trend often showcasing stunning Polynesian women and claiming that Takiwātanga is the Māori word for autism, meaning "in their own time and space."* Our hosts trace the origins of this meme, revealing that while the term’s creator is neurotypical, his intentions were genuinely positive. Kari O’Pai, a Māori linguist, developed the term Takiwātanga as part of a project aimed at depathologizing mental health terminology in the Māori language.* O'Pai's glossary was designed to curate terms for mental health, disability, and addiction that avoid pathologization, with the goal of fostering a positive and empowering indigenous Māori worldview.* Our hosts explore how well-meaning neurotypicals often attempt to romanticize or exoticize autism by introducing alternative terms—while many autistics simply prefer to use the actual word to describe themselves.* Matt and Angela discuss labels, how we relate to them, and why person-first language can be harmful to autistics.* We also explore how colonizer language inevitably pathologizes everyone—except white people.* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.* We dive into candid discussions about global perspectives on disability, cultural appropriation, identity labels, and how colonialism is inherently b******t.“I don’t like the idea of any allistic telling me what I have to do, ever. I may have PDA, but I have *especially* selective PDA about allistics telling me how to be autistic. Cause yeah, I will make eye contact if I want to. You can’t make me not make eye contact.” - Matt“Do we have a fancy word for cancer or broken leg? It’s just f*****g autism. No, it’s just cancer. It’s just broken leg. It’s just autism.” - Angela “Did you know that even neurotypicals need some support once in awhile? Fancy that, cuz humans. But that’s the thing. We live in such a colonialistic, bastardized society that says ‘lift yourself up by your bootstraps, be hyper-independent all the time, forever, always. And it frowns upon support needs of any kind.” - MattDid you notice how the Takiwātanga meme has sparked conversations about autism and language? In today’s episode, we explore its origins, cultural significance, and the impact of alternative terms for autism. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the discussion in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What insights or perspectives resonated with you the most?Resources:https://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/a-time-and-space-for-takiwatanga/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-40493398https://www.reddit.com/r/ReoMaori/comments/y84278/is_the_term_takiwatanga_real/https://www.tereohapai.nz/https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-perceived-different-cultures/https://www.facebook.com/groups/tmyndwtmynd/posts/831990382463880/https://takiwatanga.org.nz/the-story-of-takiwatanga/Related Episodes:Labels are AutisticCareers are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

An episode that steals the spotlightHere’s what’s to come in this episode: * We kick off this episode by raising the curtain on Angela's theater kid lore and spotlighting how neurodiversity and theater make a show-stopping duo.* Our hosts dive into how being "dramatic" and "attention-seeking"—classic theater kid traits—are often just the shining stars of neurodivergence.* Other overlaps between theater and neurodivergence include being perceived as pretentious or aloof, unapologetically blunt, and passionately dedicated to one’s interests.* Theater can serve as a safe haven for autistic individuals because it offers a structured and predictable environment. With everything carefully planned out and scripted, theater eliminates much of the uncertainty that can be overwhelming in everyday social interactions. This level of organization provides clear roles, boundaries, and expectations, allowing autistic folks to express themselves creatively without the stress of improvisation or ambiguity.* The sense of community found in theater can be profoundly meaningful to autistic individuals. The collaborative nature of productions fosters connections through shared goals and mutual support, creating bonds that feel genuine and purposeful. Additionally, the structure of theater often bypasses small talk, an interaction many autistic people find tedious or uncomfortable. Instead, conversations are focused on the work at hand—scripts, characters, and performances—which can feel far more engaging and meaningful for autistic folks.* Our hosts discuss how theater provides a healthy outlet for autistic individuals to mask, offering a safe space to navigate social expectations. They explore how typically challenging tasks, like making eye contact, become more manageable within a performance context—since it’s the character, not the individual, taking on these actions.* Routines, along with clear and visual communication, are key reasons why the structure of theater arts resonates with autistic individuals. The predictability of rehearsals, performances, and cues, combined with visual aids like scripts, stage blocking, and set designs, creates an environment that feels logical and accessible for autistic participants.* Matt and Angela explore autistic-coded characters in theater, offering insights into their representation while critiquing how some plays lean too heavily on the "neurotypical savior" trope.* From Leo Bloom in The Producers to Maria in The Sound of Music to Matilda to Elle Woods and Alexander Hamilton, we spotlight theater characters who subtly display autistic traits you might not have noticed before.* Our hosts delve into Stephen Sondheim’s work, highlighting how his hyper-focus and emotional intensity reflect traits commonly associated with autism.* Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking examples, this episode celebrates the beautiful intersections between theater and neurodivergence, showing how the stage can be a haven for autistic expression and representation.“Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people, that’s a very specific number. Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people is very easy for me. The roles are incredibly clear, logical, and laid out. I am on stage. You are sitting in the seats watching me. I am playing a character and that is what you expect, want, and are paying for. The conversations onstage are scripted and written better than the ones in my real life.” - Matt“One of my biggest social challenges is I will share a piece of information and it’s so obvious to me what the response is, which is usually something like ‘thank you, that was helpful information, my goodness’. And then the response I get is so different. It might be something like, ‘you’re fired’, or it will be like, ‘thank you’, and then I find out they have told five people I’m a pretentious a*****e. And I’m like, how do these things not match up? But when there’s a script, even if it’s a Kafka play, where things don’t make sense, you see it and it’s fixed in time and it’s going to be logical every time.” - Angela“I would love for somebody to go up and give me a bullet point brochure: Welcome to the neighborhood. Trash is on this day. You are allowed to have this. This is when this happens. This is when that happens. This is when that happens. I want a schedule. I want knowledge.” - MattHave you ever felt the ups and downs of life on the stage? In today’s episode, Matt and Angela dive into how neurodivergent perspectives align with the unique world of theater. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their discussion resonate with your own theater experiences?Resources:Jenna Lourenco- www.jennalourenco.com -  There is a database there of plays featuring autistic characters and a growing list of openly autistic playwrights in the English-speaking world. Mickey Rowe Our Differences are Our Strengths: Neurodiversity in Theatre https://www.americantheatre.org/2015/05/04/the-curious-incidence-of-theatre-on-the-autism-spectrum/https://howtodanceinohiomusical.com/Maria from the sound of music - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPRETdLCW/Up Close and Very Personal With The Real Stephen Sondheim Stephen Sondheim Blackwings Sold at AuctionBlackwing Pencils - https://www.hamiltonpens.com/blogs/articles/the-blackwing-pencil-culture-controversy-and-creativity*Related Episodes:Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

An episode that celebrates neurodivergent creativity in writing.Here’s what’s write around the corner: * In this episode, we dive into one of Angela's favorite topics – writing – and explore how to approach creative projects through a neurodivergent perspective.* Matt and Angela break down the writing process from an autistic perspective, discussing how book mapping can be a powerful tool and why having systems in place for writing a book is just as essential as the systems and contingency plans autistic people rely on for everyday life.* In this episode, we dive into Angela's writing journey – from crafting stories at ten years old, to working for the government (and unintentionally developing a special interest in espionage), to founding Difference Press and reflecting on her journey to where she is today.* We also chat about our exclusive virtual writing circle on the paid Substack – where we share weekly prompts and write not for cash, but because writing is cathartic and life-affirming (though we wouldn’t say no to a book deal). Sign up to join the fun – your creative soul (and inbox) will thank you!* We dive into how the writing process can be a game-changer for hyper-verbal autistic individuals, helping us find our thoughts, gain our footing, and communicate ideas more clearly – because sometimes putting pen to paper is the best way to organize that mental marathon.* Our hosts discuss how scripting is a core part of the neurodivergent experience and how it can be a powerful tool in shaping our writing process – because sometimes having a script is the key to making sense of the chaos.* We also dive into how hyper-focus can be a game-changer for the writing process (and how it’s the secret behind Stephen King's impressive book count). When we’re in the zone, there's no stopping us!* Matt and Angela explore writing as a powerful form of creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, and how it can be incredibly cathartic to write about our special interests, no matter who’s reading. Sometimes, the writing’s for us, not the audience!* Our hosts also chat about "discovering your author mojo" – which, let’s be real, is just figuring out what conditions make your autistic meat body thrive while writing. Because when the setting’s right, the words flow!* We also tackle how PDA autism and demand avoidance can sometimes stall our writing projects (ugh), and share some clever workarounds to push past those barriers and get the words flowing again!* Want to dive deeper into creative writing as an autistic individual? Join our writer's circle by becoming a paid Substack member today!“If I could just plug a word processor into my brain, I would generate book upon book like Stephen King, but it’s the matter of using my inferior meat body to do this.” - Matt“This happens with a lot of us - our special interests become a career. Which I think is good, but when it becomes a thing you’re making money on, it changes how you interact with it.”- Angela“If you want to write more, if you want to be more committed, the way you get better is by writing more. That’s the whole secret.” - Angela “First of all, there’s no such thing as a good writer. There is probably such a thing as a bad writer, but everybody has their own taste. But even if you genuinely suck and we would all agree you have a million problems with your writing, you’re barely literate. If you find it enjoyable and fulfilling, write anyway.” - Angela “My take on it is that, while we have a lot of thoughts inside our brain, they’re nebulous and not really defined. But when we are forced to go through with the act of translating it to communicate it to another person, that’s where we truly find our idea.” - Matt“Fan fiction has to be 80% neurodivergent. There’s just no other way, so. ” - AngelaHave you felt the ups and downs of the creative process? In today’s episode, Matt and Angela dive into their neurodivergent approaches to writing, sharing the unexpected insights and challenges along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their journey resonate with your own creative experiences?Resources:Join our virtual writing circle. Details here: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/do-you-have-a-neurodivergent-narrative*Related Episodes:George Lucas is AutisticEminem is Autistic Cassandra in Reverse Book Club (Paid Access)Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

Serving up an autistic take on Thanksgiving traditions!Here’s what’s in store for this episode: * Thanksgiving isn’t always the easiest time for autistic people, with our senses of justice triggered by the holiday’s problematic origins and the need to mask during family gatherings - in this episode, Matt and Angela talk about both navigating Thanksgiving as an autistic person and Mystery Science Theater 3000, a beloved autistic Thanksgiving tradition.* Matt and Angela explore the origins of Mystery Science Theater 3000 and how interactive TV serves as a beacon for autistic people.* Our hosts discuss how MST3K emphasizes the concept of found family, a theme that resonates deeply with autistic folks.* In this episode, we dive into the original Turkey Day marathons on Comedy Central that cemented MST3K as a Thanksgiving tradition, along with the show's turbulent journey across networks, Kickstarter campaigns, and different media platforms.* Matt and Angela also discuss how MST3K’s bottom-up processing style of comedy makes it especially appealing to autistic folks.“For 24 hours, you watch really bad movies, you eat some stuffing, they had some new interstitials in there, and you get together with your friends and watch bad movies. Or, if you’re alone, you get together with your friends on TV and watch some bad movies. So you still have some community. You are like Joel, keeping your sanity with the help of your robot friends. And to this day, this is the only Thanksgiving tradition I have.” - Matt“They just need more funding because, again, they don’t have studio backing. They’re doing it all completely independently. Just like we do it. We are often forced to be independent. We are often traumatically independent because we don’t have that support system around us.” - Matt“I would rather do something small and funded myself than be beholden to explaining my creative ideas to these people that will never get it. It’s not a problem to explain it. It’s explaining it to people who are gonna drive you crazy.” - AngelaDid you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with the holidays? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Matt and Angela’s autistic take on Thanksgiving and how Mystery Science Theater 3000 offers a perfect comfort break during it all! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights resonate with your own Thanksgiving traditions?Resources:https://www.gizmoplex.com/browsehttps://shoutfactory.com/collections/mystery-science-theater-3000 https://www.twitch.tv/mst3kRelated Episodes:Community is AutisticDinosaur is AutisticPoetry is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

An episode that takes on the heavy lifting.Here’s what’s packed into this episode: * In this episode, we tackle the autistic hell that is moving — diving into all the intricate details, overwhelming processes, and sharing strategies for coping through it all.* Our hosts discuss Matt's recent move and explore the time-consuming yet worthwhile systems autistic individuals often need to implement to stay comfortable and regulated in their own homes.* Matt and Angela dive into the art of emotional regulation and why it's such a foundational task for autistic folks. They also discuss how to incorporate emotional regulation strategies into the moving process as much as possible.* We discuss the importance of having our own Autistic Survival Packs in each room of the house and how crucial they are for regulation. Angela shares some of her essential items, including eye drops, nail files, phone chargers, and blankets for temperature regulation—a common issue for many autistic individuals.* In this episode, we also dive into how autistic folks often have a predisposition toward hoarding and emotional attachments to their belongings, and explore ways to break this generational curse.“As you know, we [autistic people] process 42% more information at rest than neurotypical people. Because of that, our brains are always churning through the data and always looking at the variables. Our brains are much more variable-focused. We’re much more detail-oriented than neurotypical people. Neurotypical people are big-picture people. We are the minutiae. And when it comes to moving, it’s all about the minutiae. ” - Matt“There’s a lot of stuff that we [autistic folks] don’t have opinions on - but when we do have opinions, we have f*****g strong opinions. And when we find something that just clicks with us, we need it. You need your mattress.” - Matt“Emotional regulation is our biggest job as autistic people. It’s a full-time job, it’s our number one job. There are going to be times you’re dysregulated. You’re gonna have to go to court, you’re gonna have to go to the DMV, a cop is going to pull you over. You are going to be dysregulated some of the time. And so every single second you can possibly control being emotionally regulated, that’s your job to put first in order.” - Angela“Well, so this is the thing about the ‘tism, right? Because again, the neurotypicals only know us by our deficits, but we only have the deficits when we’re dysregulated. We only have the deficits when we are out of our element, when we are desperately trying to accommodate everyone else and everything else. We have to do that for us first. And in order to be a functional human being, you need to have that regulation.” - Matt“Is one of your techniques [for phone calls] is as soon as the phone picks up, I just start screaming ‘agent, agent, agent, f**k you, agent, let me talk to a person, f**k you. Do you do that? Is that your technique? It doesn’t work, but it is my approach.” - Angela Did you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with moving? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Matt's recent move and all the unexpected hurdles along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights from Matt's story resonate with your own moving experiences?Resources:*The* Viral Tiktok Shower Head - Ziffit - Sell Your Books Matt’s Favorite Disney Coffee Related Episodes:Questlove Is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

An episode with flavor!Here’s what’s to come in today’s episode: * On today’s episode, Matt and Angela welcome neurodivergent podcaster and Anthony Bourdain aficionado Patrick Casale (he/his) (from the Divergent Conversations podcast) to share a neurodivergent take on the man, the myth, the legend.* Licensed therapist and neurodivergent podcaster Patrick Casale shares how Anthony Bourdain’s journey—and watching the posthumous film Roadrunner—inspired him to pursue his own autism diagnosis.* Our hosts chat with Patrick about why so many kitchen staff are likely AuDHD—exploring how restaurant work allows them to unmask, embrace the comfort of parallel play, and thrive in the structured, fast-paced environment that kitchens often demand.* In this episode, we delve into Bourdain’s special interests—his deep fascination with true crime, and his passion for exploring the cultures and cuisines of the world.* Did you know? One of Anthony Bourdain’s special interests was writing and reading graphic novels. His staff and crew have even shared that he had just four or five key talking points he’d circle back to time and time again—a classic autistic-coded trait!* During this episode, we dive into the traits that made Anthony Bourdain resonate so strongly with the autistic community—like his monotropic focus, heightened sensory sensitivity, and his unique approach to building community through travel in deeply nontraditional ways.“What hit me really hard in this movie especially - and just reading all of his books and watching all the shows and everything that we will probably talk about is like - this deep, painful, lonely existence where he was surrounded by people who really cared about him all the time, but he could not access it. And he talks openly about that experience and how painful it was, how often he wanted to be on the go, experiencing new things while simultaneously feeling like ‘I really need to be in my home. My safe space, with my safe people.’ It was just like this push-pull, constantly.” - Patrick“I think a lot of kitchen staff and restaurant staff and restaurant staff are definitely ADHD/autistic to some degree/in some capacity, and the kitchen staff specifically tend to be a lot of autistic people. A lot of people feel like they don’t fit in, they feel like misfits, they feel like this is the only place I can really be my true self and really like unmask in a way where everyone around me is experiencing the same thing. And I found that to be so profoundly powerful.” - Patrick“Listen, I was in Iceland two weeks ago. We absolutely did not eat [fermented shark meat]. It was offered and I said ‘No, thank you’. I didn’t even eat the fish jerky. I do not believe fish is meant to be jerky.” - Angela“I like the idea of adventure. I want to read about adventure, but when it comes to actually leaving the house, I’d rather be underground eating really good food. But, you know, when a wizard comes along and drags me kicking and screaming on an adventure to fight a dragon, I’m there. It’s one of those things.” - MattDid you ever notice how Anthony Bourdain captures the spirit of exploration and authenticity? In today’s episode, we dive deep into his legacy and why his unique perspective resonates so strongly with the autistic community. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights made you see Bourdain in a new light?Resources:instagram.com/patrick.casaleallthingspractice.comdivergentpod.comempoweredescapes.com/retreatRelated Episodes:McEnroe Is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

Rick Bryson, an art director and graphic designer, co-authored "Movies with Balls: The Greatest Sports Films of All Time, Analyzed and Illustrated." He shares insights about blending film and sports memorabilia, revealing how his fantasy ticket designs celebrate nostalgic moments. The discussion highlights the artistic process behind capturing iconic films like 'Karate Kid' and personal connections to sports cinema. Notably, Rick emphasizes how attention to detail resonates with autistic experiences, enriching the appreciation of classic films.

An episode that’s more than meets the eye!Here’s what’s in store for this episode:* In this episode, Matt gears up for a major info dump, breaking down the origins of the Transformers franchise—turns out, it’s a bot-tastic blend of autism and lore!* We uncover that there are two canonically autistic Transformers characters—Transmutate and Geomotus. Not only are they explicitly identified as neurodivergent in the franchise, but they also embody classic autistic traits like sensory sensitivity, heightened empathy, naivety, bluntness, and difficulty with conventional social cues.* Matt and Angela also dive into the work of autistic voice actor Corey Burton, who voiced Shockwave (and also brings the Disneyland monorail and buses to life)! They explore how Shockwave’s character carries autistic coding as well.* Our two hosts transform the conversation as they explore how the franchise navigates the intersection of gender, sexuality, gender fluidity, and carving out a place in a society that can often feel a bit ableist.“Shockwave is ultra-logical. Canonically, he has had his emotions removed so he can be more logical. He doesn’t have a face, he just has a light-up eye because you can’t read his facial expressions. Because he has a very flat face, a very flat affect, completely logical. So he is autistic coded from the start, voiced by an autistic actor [Cory Burton]. ” - Matt“Geomotus is one of Cybertron’s most proficient geologists. A dedicated scientist, he’s happiest when he’s outdoors exploring the vast and ever-changing vistas of his home world, whether that’s spelunking into the sonic canyons or surveying the Rust Sea with the assistance of his onboard radar systems, rather than fighting the Decepticons. Unlike most Cybertronians, Geomotus is neurodivergent. In practice, this means that he’s blunt, occasionally withdrawn, and sometimes struggles with social cues.” - MattDid you notice how the Transformers franchise shifts gears to connect with the autistic experience? Roll out your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fans! Which traits revved up your engines in this episode?Resources:https://autistic-characters-of-the-day.tumblr.com/post/162050689439/netbug009-autistic-characters-of-the-day/amphttps://tfwiki.net/wiki/Transmutate_(BW)https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Perceptor_(G1)https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Geomotushttps://tfwiki.net/wiki/Lost_LightRelated Episodes:Beauty and the Beast is AutisticAnimation is AutisticDisney is AutisticCats are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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

Taking care of business, the autistic way!Here’s what to expect in this episode: * In this episode, Matt and Juliette chat with Arielle Juliette (he/him, she/her), owner of Dance Life Studio and Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin. Arielle has created an inclusive space that celebrates neurodivergence and champions autistic advocacy.* Our hosts dive into a lively chat with Arielle Juliette on building burnout-proof businesses—where setting boundaries and office hours are all part of the rhythm to avoid "dancing on the edge" of exhaustion!* Arielle joins Matt and Angela to discuss his unexpected success on social media, the surprises of going viral, and the value of a comment moderator. She also shares how supportive comments with mixed intentions can sometimes sting even more than direct hate.* A key topic in this episode is the intersection of capitalism and neurodiversity, highlighting how neurodivergent individuals in the workplace deserve to have their needs met without having to work harder than others to gain support and recognition.Arielle Juliette's BioArielle Juliette (he/him, she/her) is the owner and operator of Dance Life Studio and Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin, where she has cultivated a space that celebrates neurodivergence and champions autistic advocacy. With a deep love for dance that began in 2004, he specializes in Egyptian dance and focuses on making movement accessible for all bodies and neurotypes, breaking free from the rigid norms of allistic standards.As an autistic entrepreneur, Arielle has reimagined what it means to run a business by prioritizing emotional regulation and setting boundaries that support her well-being. He has structured his business to align with his neurotype, including establishing office hours that help prevent burnout, proving that working with who you are can lead to a thriving career. In addition to leading Dance Life Studio, Arielle is also a viral social media creator, where she shares her unmasked, joyful autistic self and promotes the idea that all bodies and minds are worthy.Through her work, Arielle is a strong advocate for embracing authenticity in both business and life, encouraging others to honor their neurodivergent selves.“When our energy is gone, we are good to no one. So I must take my time to protect and replenish my energy in order to be of service to the fine folks who have not yet received emails from me. ” - Arielle“Well, that’s the thing about being autistic itself, because, for a lot of people, you’re not autistic unless an outside observer determines your autism. So we’re not busy unless an outside observer determines whether or not we’re busy, even though mentally we are cycling through the next week or putting things in order or, you know, just to have it going through the autistic inertia of ‘I need to do this, but before I do this, I need to do this. And I need to put this in order in order to be able to do that.’ You’re doing the mental chess necessary. ” - Matt“Like, I wanna tell all my stories and then I’m like, why do people have to comment? And if you did comment, why didn’t you comment the way I want you to? Now you’re ruining my life.” - Angela“We’re worthy of being comfortable [in our business] and being paid for our things. And we don’t need to work harder than everybody else. And we deserve to have our needs met in order to give to people, because you asked like, what do we owe?” - Arielle Did you notice how Arielle’s approach to business embodies the balance between authenticity and advocacy? Dancing to the beat of her own drum and breaking the mold for autistic entrepreneurs, Arielle is proving that success comes when you honor your neurotype. Thanks for joining us! Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. What traits from Arielle’s journey resonated with you this season?Resources:Wikipedia Entry for Belly Dancehttps://www.madisondancelife.com/ariellehttps://www.instagram.com/madisondancelife/?hl=enRelated Episodes:Belly Dancing is AutisticCareers are AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Follow 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