Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity!

Explore the transformative power of writing as a means of self-expression and identity! Discover the new Neurodivergent Narratives initiative, inviting participants to embrace their uniqueness through weekly prompts. Hear inspiring stories about early creativity and the importance of breaking familial silence around identity. Get excited about a six-word memoir contest aimed at empowering neurodivergent voices. Whether you're an aspiring writer or just curious, there's a place for your truth!

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

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.

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

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