
Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity!
Welcome to The Autistic Culture Podcast! đ
Each episode, we dive deep into Autistic contributions to society, history, and pop culture â celebrating the creativity, honesty, passions, and resilience that define our community.
Join host Dr. Angela Kingdon â a late-diagnosed Autistic woman, Wall Street Journal bestselling author, communications PhD, ghostwriter, writing teacher, and critical autism researcher â as she explores the language, values, traditions, and identity of Autistica.
Every Tuesday, we celebrate famous and influential Autistic figures across history, science, business, entertainment, and the arts. Every Friday, our Neurodivergent Narratives episodes give you a chance to explore your own special interests, process sensory experiences, and build authentic self-expression through writing.
Whether you're Autistic yourself, love someone who is, or are simply curious to learn more about the vibrant world of Autistic culture â welcome home.
We're saving you a seat.
Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast www.autisticculturepodcast.com
Latest episodes

Feb 27, 2024 âą 1h 11min
The Good Place is Autistic (Episode 58)
"The Good Place": A Neurodiversity-Affirming Haven in Television* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP explore the numerous autistic themes and characters in the TV show "The Good Place."* They analyze Chidi's character as strongly autistic-coded, noting his special interests, process complexity, concrete thinking, anxiety, and adherence to personal morality.* Eleanor is discussed as potentially autistic, with traits like direct communication, perspective-taking challenges, and a background of trauma common in late-diagnosed autistic women.* Jason's character is explored through the lens of ADHD, which has significant overlap with autism, showcasing monotropic focus and passionate interests.* The AI Janet's evolution is compared to an autistic unmasking journey, as she develops preferences beyond her original programming.* Tahani's character is examined in light of masking exhaustion, with the hosts noting actor Jameela Jamil's real-life conditions often co-occurring with autism.* Michael's character traits are analyzed for autistic tendencies, including his fascination with humans and preference for concrete examples.* The hosts praise "The Good Place" for its diverse representation of neurodivergence and insightful portrayal of autistic experiences, viewing the show's focus on moral philosophy as inherently autistic in nature.* Overall, the podcast celebrates "The Good Place" as a neurodiversity-affirming series that resonates deeply with autistic viewers and their experiences.Starting around 53:24 Angela spontaneously demonstrates which aspects of Autistic Culture? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Book: How to Be Perfect by Michael SchurVideo: How to be perfect with "The Good Place" creator Michael SchurArticle: Chidi Anagonye, the Autistic Nerd Character Done RightArticle: How The Good Place taught moral philosophy to its characters â and its creatorsArticle: 5 Moral Philosophy Concepts Featured on The Good PlaceTikTok: Character analysis Itâs literally all of themTikTok: Chidi Autistic traits analysisTikTok: Chidi - I love this lineTikTok: I relate to Janet so much YouTube: The Good Place - The Trolley Problem (Episode Highlight)Episode 12: Parks & Rec is AutisticBook Club #05: How to be PerfectReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic merch shop*Note: Transcription technology is still new on this platform. We are aware of the gaps and errors in the transcript and are dedicated to editing it for accuracy as soon as the new technology allows. We appreciate your patience as we work to expand accessibility as quickly as we are able.**TACP recognizes that ABA for autism is harmful to Autistic mental health. We reject the use of ABA therapy and pathologizing language like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and associated functioning labels as well as the harmful monolith: Autism Speaks. To learn more, please listen to: Episode 20: Sesame Street is Autistic and Episode 24: The Trouble with Temple Grandin. 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

Feb 20, 2024 âą 1h 19min
Community is Autistic (Episode 57)
Celebrating Autistic Culture: Community's Groundbreaking Representation in Television* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the TV show "Community," praising it as an "Autistic love fest" with authentic representation.* They celebrate Abed Nadir, played by Danny Pudi, as possibly the greatest autistic character in TV history, highlighting his canonical autism and self-acceptance.* The hosts explore how the show's creator, Dan Harmon, discovered his own autism while writing Abed's character, infusing the series with genuine autistic experiences.* "Community" is lauded for allowing characters to "unmask" and become more authentically themselves over time, showcasing positive relationship dynamics within the study group.* The podcast contrasts "Community's" respectful portrayal of autistic culture with problematic representations in shows like "The Big Bang Theory," where autism is often the punchline.* The hosts debunk common stereotypes about autistic individuals lacking empathy or social desires, emphasizing the show's nuanced depiction of autistic social connections.* Behind-the-scenes information is shared, including production challenges and the anticipation surrounding the upcoming "Community" movie.* Overall, "Community" is highly recommended as a show created by and for autistic individuals, offering a rare and valuable celebration of autistic culture and mindset in mainstream media.Which Community character do you relate to most? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!A couple of those online autism quizzes we discussed:* RAADs R* CAT QDamian Milton - double empathy problemArticle: Eye on Emmy: Communityâs Danny Pudi on Abedâs Impressions, Marvel GigsVideo: Dan Harmon talks about Asperger's syndrome - Why Abed is a shamanVideo: Danny Pudi on Why He Is Not Abed Nadir Article: Communityâs Dan Harmon Discovered He Had Aspergerâs While Writing Abedâs CharacterArticle: The Secret World of Imagination Hidden in AutismArticle: Community Q&A: Danny Pudi on Abedâs Growth, Losing Troy, and All Those Frisbees Article: Dan Harmon Discusses His New Documentary, Addiction, and Going to Therapy Article: Danny Pudi On Living With Aspergerâs: âIâm Just Trying To Be Honest About Who I AmâDocumentary: Harmontown Book Club #02: FrankensteinEpisode 32: Animation is AutisticEpisode 36: Bad Autism DiagnosisEpisode 39: Dungeons and Dragons is AutisticEpisode 48: Child-to-Parent Diagnostic PipelineReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Feb 13, 2024 âą 1h 15min
Lessons in Chemistry is Autistic (Episode 56)
*contains SPOILERSUnmasking Autistic Brilliance: "Lessons in Chemistry" Offers a Neurodiversity-Affirming Narrative* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss "Lessons in Chemistry," a book and TV series featuring autistic-coded characters set in 1950s America.* The show centers around Elizabeth Zott, an autistic female scientist played by Brie Larson, and her relationship with Calvin Evans, another autistic scientist.* Their relationship is portrayed as an "autistic love story," showcasing authentic autistic communication styles like info-dumping as expressions of intimacy.* The series depicts a nurturing environment for Elizabeth's autistic-coded daughter, Madeline, contrasting with the gaslighting many autistic individuals experience growing up.* Themes explored include masking, special interests, data collection, and social justice advocacy, all presented through an autistic lens.* The hosts appreciate the attention to detail in portraying autistic experiences and culture, highlighting how the show demonstrates the benefits of neuro-inclusive family structures.* They discuss the "double empathy problem" and how relationships between autistic individuals can be easier in some ways, while still requiring negotiation and accommodation.* Overall, the podcast celebrates "Lessons in Chemistry" for its accurate and affirming representation of autistic characters and culture in both literature and television.What is something Culturally Autistic about your romantic relationship? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Article: âLessons in Chemistryâ Star Aja Naomi King on Telling the Story of L.A.âs Sugar Hill NeighborhoodVideo: Audition Story Time (part 1) with Brie LarsonVideo: Audition Story Time (part 2) with Brie LarsonVideo: Extended interview: Bonnie Garmus on her debut novel and moreVideo: Bunny the DogEpisode 12: Parks & Rec is AutisticEpisode 15: Greta is AutisticEpisode 31: Chess is AutisticBook Club #04: Hitchhiker's Guide to the GalaxyReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Feb 6, 2024 âą 32min
Doctor Who Update (Episode 55: Minisode #3)
*Contains SPOILERSEmbracing Neurodiversity in the TARDIS: Doctor Who's 60th Anniversary Specials Shine a Spotlight on Inclusive Storytelling* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry enthusiastically discuss the recent 60th anniversary Doctor Who specials on Disney+, overseen by returning showrunner Russell T Davies.* They highlight Davies' commitment to inclusivity, showcasing new characters like the ambulatory wheelchair user Ruth Madeley and the introduction of Donna Noble's previously unknown transgender daughter, Rose.* The hosts praise the specials' focus on rules-based games and special interests, such as the games between the villainous Toymaker and the Doctor, which the hosts relate to their own experiences with sibling secrets and gaming.* They celebrate the specials' innovative narrative device of "bi-generation," which allows multiple Doctors' timelines to co-exist, opening up possibilities for even more Doctors to return in the future.* The hosts contrast Davies' inclusive approach with the controversies surrounding JK Rowling, positioning him as a powerful counterforce advocating for marginalized communities.* Overall, the discussion emphasizes the neurodiversity-affirming representation and progressive storytelling choices made in the Doctor Who 60th anniversary specials, which the hosts believe honor the show's past while propelling it into a more inclusive future.Are you a Whovian? Does the world of Doctor Who reflect your Autistic values and experiences too? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Watch the new trailerEpisode 27: Trivia is AutisticEpisode 30: Doctor Who is AutisticEpisode 31: Chess is AutisticEpisode 39: Dungeons and Dragons is AutisticEpisode 40: Minisode #1: Update on Doctor Who, D&D, Sherlock, and Star WarsReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Jan 30, 2024 âą 1h 8min
Comedy is Autistic (Episode 54)
Reclaiming the Narrative: Autistic Comedians' Memoirs Offer Neurodiversity-Affirming Insights* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the memoirs of two acclaimed autistic comedians, Hannah Gadsby from Tasmania and Fern Brady from Scotland.* The hosts highlight the striking parallels in the comedians' lives, including their struggles with getting accurately diagnosed, dealing with gender-based violence and abuse, and facing homophobia and ableism.* Both Gadsby and Brady found solace and a survival mechanism in comedy, finding great success through performances at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.* The discussion explores the comedians' experiences with employment challenges, homelessness, and disordered eating - issues that often intersect with the autistic experience.* The podcast delves into the differences between autistic meltdowns and shutdowns, as well as the use of comedy as a masking technique to navigate a neurotypical-dominated world.* The hosts praise the memoirs as powerful examples of autistic individuals reclaiming their narratives and gaining deeper self-understanding.* They highly recommend reading the books and watching the comedians' performances, which offer neurodiversity-affirming insights and representation for the autistic community.* Overall, the episode celebrates the resilience and creative expression of Gadsby and Brady, showcasing how autistic individuals can channel their experiences into transformative art and advocacy.*At the time of the recording, Angela and Matt used she/her pronouns for Hannah Gadsby based on the research materials for the episode (mainly: Hannahâs memoir, stand-up specials, and a few interviews). We have since learned that Hannahâs pronouns are they/them. TACP fully supports gender diversity and respecting peopleâs pronouns. We apologize for the serious error we made and offer our sincerest apologies to Hannah and our listeners for our mistake and any harm it has caused. In this instance, we failed to live up to our mission of radical inclusivity. Please respect your own boundaries and triggers and listen with care.Do you relate to these Autistic comedians? Do their stories remind you of your own?Hannah Notes:* Book: 10 Steps to Nanette* Wikipedia: Hannah Gadsby * Netflix Specials: Nanette, Douglas, Something Special * Article: Hannah Gadsby's Nanette: Connection Through Comedy* Article: Hannah Gadsby's song of the self* Article: Hannah Gadsby Gets the Last Laugh in 10 Steps to Nanette * Article: Hannah Gadsby on her autism diagnosis: âIâve always been plagued by a sense that I was a little out of whackâ* NPRâs Fresh Air: Autism Spectrum Diagnosis Helped Comic Hannah Gadsby 'Be Kinder' To Herself* Article: Hannah Gadsby told she was âtoo fatâ and âtoo femaleâ to be autistic* Article: Hannah Gadsby Threatened to Quit Comedy in Nanette. Her New Memoir Proves Sheâs Not Going Anywhere* Article: Ten Steps to Nanette by Hannah Gadsby audiobook review â startling candourFern Notes:* Book: Strong Female Character * Wikipedia: Fern Brady * YouTube playlist: Taskmaster Series 14 * Article: Taskmasterâs Fern Brady: How a late diagnosis of autism explained my meltdowns* Article: Review: Strong Female Character, by Fern Brady* Article: Strong Female Character: An unflinching self-portrait* Article: âEverything ends up about death and shaggingâ: Fern Brady on comedy, autism and intrusive thoughts* Video: Fern Brady On Being A Stripper, Autism Diagnosis & School In 'A Men's Prison'* Article: Book review: Strong Character, by Fern BradyMore Autistic Culture:* Episode 03: Poetry is Autistic (Emily Dickinson episode)* Episode 15: Greta is Autistic (Greta Thunberg episode)* Episode 36: Bad Autism DiagnosisReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Jan 23, 2024 âą 1h 1min
Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)
Soaring Beyond Ableism: An Autistic Circus Performer's Journey of Self-Discovery* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP interview Andralyn Zayn, an Autistic circus producer, director, performer, and fitness educator.* Andralyn's story of self-discovery began when she identified with Autistic women's experiences on TikTok, leading her down a research "rabbit hole" and eventually to a professional autism diagnosis.* She discusses her specialized circus act of sitting on her husband's feet while he juggles her, and how she used a very Autistic-aligned dating profile to find her partner.* However, Andralyn's health severely declined while working on a documentary about autistic circus performers, as she struggled with undiagnosed conditions like polycystic kidney disease and POTS.* The podcast hosts explore how proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation often attracts autistic individuals to circus arts, allowing them to experience intense special interests and flow states during training.* Yet, this can also lead to ignoring bodily signals and burnout, as autistic people may push themselves to unhealthy levels of productivity to "make up for" being neurodivergent in an ableist society.* Andralyn's journey illustrates the important lessons of learning to understand one's neurological and physical differences in order to create a sustainable lifestyle, rather than succumbing to societal pressures.* The discussion emphasizes the need to challenge ableism and provide models of self-acceptance and self-care for the Autistic community.Did Autistic identification lead you to realizing that you have a chronic illness/disorder? Or vise versa? * Wikipedia: Risley (circus act)* Article: The next yoga? Circus-inspired fitness* Video: On the Job with Circus Artists* Andralynâs Instagram* Andralynâs Facebook* Episode 14: Autistic Medical Needs* Episode 22: Trains are Autistic* Episode 46: Cats are Autistic* Episode 47: Autistic Centered Therapy - AuCTReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic merch shop*Note: Transcription technology is still new on this platform. We are aware of the gaps and errors in the transcript and are dedicated to editing it for accuracy as soon as the new technology allows. We appreciate your patience as we work to expand accessibility as quickly as we are able.**TACP recognizes that ABA for autism is harmful to Autistic mental health. We reject the use of ABA therapy and pathologizing language like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and associated functioning labels. To learn more, please listen to: Episode 20: Sesame Street is Autistic and Episode 24: The Trouble with Temple Grandin. 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

Jan 16, 2024 âą 23min
Only Murders Update (Episode 52: Minisode #2)
Authentic Autistic Bonds: Celebrating the Neurodiversity-Affirming Friendships of "Only Murders in the Building"* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry provide an update on their analysis of the TV show "Only Murders in the Building," exploring additional evidence that suggests actress Selena Gomez may also be in club âtism.* They note Gomez's co-occurring condition of lupus, which has a high rate of co-occurrence with autism, as further potential insight into her neurodivergent identity.* The hosts discuss how autistic friendships are often built on shared special interests, in contrast to the more gradual, stage-based progression of neurotypical friendships, which can involve implicit rules and superficial interactions.* They conclude that autistic individuals should prioritize seeking out autistic friendships, as these connections can avoid the exhaustion and masking often required in neurotypical social dynamics.* Overall, the podcast hosts feel "Only Murders in the Building" provides an exemplary depiction of an authentic, supportive autistic friendship, serving as a model for the kind of community and understanding autistic individuals should strive to cultivate.* The discussion emphasizes the value of neurodiversity-affirming relationships and the importance of autistic individuals finding belonging within their own community, rather than forcing themselves to conform to neurotypical social norms.Whatâs your experience with Autistic friendships? Tell us about it in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Nicoâs stages of allistic friendship progression:* Acquaintance: Running into someone regularly due to a common social environment.* Cohort/casual friend: Making occasional plans together, often context-dependent (e.g. "my friends from the dance group" or "classmate" or "colleague") but more intimate than acquaintances.* Friend: Friends are people who know approximately who you are (or the version of yourself you present to the world). They probably know who several of your other friends are, may offer to pitch in on a project or lend a hand with a move.* Close friend: Close friends expect to be early on the list of people you'd call upon for emotional or practical support or even relationship advice, but not necessarily for the "big problems." * Superlative of choice: Whether they call it BFFs, besties, "my/the girls/boys/people," chosen family, sweetheart, etc. these are the people whom they'd consider using up vacation days to supportâthe ones who might do the same for them. Curiously, these are the people they'll back in an argument even when they're clearly at least partially in the wrong.More TACP:* Episode 14: Autistic Medical Needs* Episode 43: Only Murders in the Building is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Jan 9, 2024 âą 1h 23min
Aquariums are Autistic (Episode 51)
Diving Into Autistic Passion: Exploring a Special Interest in Aquariums and Shrimp* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry interview their guest, Daniel, about his deep fascination with aquariums and fish tanks.* Daniel explains how his childhood aquarium experience reignited his passion as an adult, leading him to obsessively research and optimize every aspect of aquarium setup and maintenance.* He delves into the intricacies of keeping different shrimp species, such as Cardina and Neocaridina varieties, and the challenges of maintaining the ideal water conditions and aquascape for their needs.* The discussion explores how Daniel's special interest in aquariums intersects with his other interests, like 3D printing and software development, as his monotropic focus on tuning and optimizing systems carries over across domains.* The hosts recognize the emotional vulnerability and connection that arises from Daniel's passionate, in-depth explanations, contrasting it with the superficial nature of typical "small talk."* They also highlight how Daniel's anxiety stems from the constant processing of variables and fear of the unknown, which is characteristic of the autistic experience, in contrast to neurotypical anxiety.* The episode celebrates Daniel's deep dive into his special interest, showcasing how autistic individuals can find joy, fulfillment, and a sense of community through the pursuit of their passions.The episode wraps up with Daniel feeling good that his past work automating systems for Angela's company has lived on and continues to be utilized.Whatâs your little world that you like to build and control? Video: Danielâs Shrimp World * Episode 38: Productivity is Autistic* Episode 47: Autistic Centered Therapy - AuCT* Book Club #02: Frankenstein Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Jan 1, 2024 âą 48min
Top 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture (Episode 50)
Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP, celebrate their 50th podcast episode by reminiscing about some of their favorite past episodes that highlighted the Top Ten Pillars of Autistic Culture:* Logic and strategy * Episode 11: Sherlock is Autistic * Episode 31: Chess is Autistic* Linguistics and accents * Episode 32: Animation is Autistic* Deep thinking and insights* Episode 03: Poetry is Autistic (Emily Dickinson episode) * Episode 09: Fairy Tales are Autistic (Hans Christian Anderson episode)* World building* Episodes 16: PokĂ©mon is Autistic* Episode 39: Dungeons and Dragons is Autistic* Data gathering, pattern formation, and analysis* Episode 27: Trivia is Autistic* Episode 35: Sex is Autistic (Alfred Kinsey episode)* Innovative, game-changing ideas* Episode 04: Industrial Light & Magic (Star Wars episode) * Episode 37: Motion Pictures are Autistic* Creativity and artistic expression* Episode 19: Eminem is Autistic* Episode 29: Questlove is Autistic* Consistency and reliability* Episode 21: Dino Nuggets are Autistic* Episode 22: Trains are Autistic* Justice and honesty* Episode 15: Greta is Autistic* Episode 42: McEnroe is Autistic* Superfanning and fictional friends* Episode 10: Star Trek is Autistic* Episode 30: Doctor Who is AutisticOver 49 episodes, Matt and Angela have aimed to resist a culture that is frequently hostile towards Autistics through sharing Autistic joy and by highlighting the unique contributions of famous Autistics across history. Weâre here, weâre Autistic, get used to it!At 11:06, Matt demonstrates one aspect of the Autistic accent and dialect. What does he say, and what part of Autistic Culture is he drawing from when he does it? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!* Do you have a podcast or upcoming professional event and want to feature Matt and/or Angela? Check out our âBook Usâ page.* Want more autism-affirming goodies? You might enjoy Angelaâs Unmasking Autism Diary, the TACP blog, and our autism-affirming merch shop. Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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

Dec 24, 2023 âą 1h 7min
Christmas is Autistic (Episode 49)
Navigating the Holidays with Neurodiversity: An Actually Autistic Perspective* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry discuss their complicated feelings around the Christmas season, acknowledging both the holiday magic and the potential for overstimulation, family stress, and past trauma.* They explore how certain Christmas TV specials, like "A Charlie Brown Christmas" and "The Grinch," resonate with autistic experiences of feeling overwhelmed while others find joy.* The hosts highlight the concept of "autistic glimmers" - positive sensory experiences and routines that bring joy, like Matt's son's love for Christmas villages and light displays.* They also validate the challenges autistic individuals face during the holidays, such as increased social expectations, gift-giving misalignments, and food sensitivities.* The discussion analyzes the autistic traits of iconic Christmas characters like Santa Claus, as well as the parallels between neurodivergent people feeling excluded for being "different" and outcast characters like Rudolph and Hermie the elf.* The hosts express a wish for more openness and acceptance during the holidays and throughout the year, sharing a story Matt wrote about an autistic child who finds understanding and joy in a magical Christmas dragon.* The podcast emphasizes the importance of celebrating neurodiversity and creating spaces of belonging, even amidst the potential stressors the holiday season can bring for autistic individuals.What are some of your holiday glimmers? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!* Available on Apple+: Charlie Brownâs Christmas Special* Episode 08: Peanuts is Autistic* Episode 21: Dino Nuggets are Autistic* Episode 03: Poetry is Autistic (Emily Dickinson episode)* Episode 22: Trains are Autistic* Episode 35: Sex is Autistic (Kinsey episode)* Episode 32: Animation is AutisticReady for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!Find us on:* Follow our Instagram account!* Review us on Apple podcasts and Spotify* Follow us on Instagram* Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com * TACPâs Autism-affirming TeePublic 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