Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity!

Navigating the "Child to Parent Diagnostic Pipeline": A Neurodiversity-Affirming Exploration* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry are joined by filmmaker and autistic advocate Bret Malley to discuss the common experience of parents realizing their own autism after their child's diagnosis.* Bret shares his personal story of how his son's struggle and evaluation for autism opened his eyes to recognizing his own autistic traits, leading to his own diagnosis as an adult.* The discussion explores both the useful aspects of an official autism diagnosis, as well as the downsides of medicalization and pathologization of natural neurodiversity.* The hosts propose that autism is best understood as a shared cultural identity that people can recognize and self-identify with, rather than requiring a formal diagnosis.* They envision a future where self-identification based on connecting with autistic cultural experiences can be enough to access accommodations and supports, without the need for an official diagnosis.* Bret introduces his upcoming documentary film, "The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism," which aims to challenge stereotypes and highlight the gifts and challenges of being autistic in an allistic-centric society.* Throughout the conversation, the podcast emphasizes the value of autistic self-discovery, community, and the celebration of neurodiversity, rather than the rigid requirements of the traditional diagnostic process.What was on your “maybe” list when you were first realizing you’re Autistic?* Pitch-trailer for The Divergent Gift; Unboxing Autism * The Divergent Gift website* Bret’s website* Harry Chapin Flowers are Red * The women Folk: Little Boxes * Joe James Book: The Autistic Experience: Silenced Voices Finally Heard* Episode 38: Productivity is Autistic* Episode 36: Bad Autism Diagnosis* Episode 03: Poetry is Autistic* Episode 29: Questlove is Autistic* Episode 22: Trains are 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 * TACP’s 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

Discover a groundbreaking therapy model designed specifically for autistic individuals. The hosts emphasize the importance of embracing one's authentic self while unpacking the damaging effects of traditional therapies. They explore the necessity of processing past traumas and advocate for a supportive therapeutic environment. The discussion highlights the significance of community advocacy and the unique experiences of autistic individuals. Real stories underscore the connection between self-acceptance and effective therapeutic support, making a powerful case for a more inclusive approach.

Purr-fect Parallels: Exploring the Neurodiversity of Cats and its Relevance to the Autistic Experience* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry draw connections between the behaviors and traits exhibited by cats and the common experiences of autistic individuals.* They compare feline quirks, such as sensory preferences, need for routines, communication styles, strong stress response, and special interests, to attributes often associated with autism.* The hosts explain how cats' particular preferences for their surroundings and communication methods align with autistic individuals' desires for predictable environments and understandable forms of expression.* They highlight famous autistic-coded cat characters in media, including Garfield, Hello Kitty, the Cat in the Hat, and Hobbes from Calvin and Hobbes, analyzing how these representations embody aspects of autistic culture.* The discussion uses examples of cat behavior to criticize ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy, arguing that autistic people, like cats, should be accepted and accommodated for who they naturally are, rather than forced to conform to allistic expectations.* Overall, the hosts showcase cats as a powerful symbol of neurodiversity, celebrating feline tendencies as an emblem of the autistic experience and advocating for the same appreciation and accommodation of autistic individuals' innate traits.Which Autistic cat traits resonate with you? Share in the comments!* Kathy Hoopmann’s website* Video: How I Taught My Cat to Talk | Beginner Tutorial* Video: Cat Kicks Boyfriend out of the House* Video: Where Dad? Billi SpeaksListen to next:* Episode 08: Peanuts is Autistic* Episode 32: Animation is Autistic* Book Club #01: DoppelgangerReady 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 * TACP’s 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

Neurodiversity on the Menu: Exploring Autistic Representation in "Bob's Burgers"* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP analyze the TV show "Bob's Burgers" and how its characters embody aspects of Autistic culture and experiences.* They examine the various Autistic traits exhibited by the main characters, such as:* Tina's Autistic accent, people-pleasing tendencies, and passionate interest in horses* Gene's deep need for musical expression, echolalia, and sensory-seeking behaviors* Louise's Pervasive Drive for Autonomy (PDA), monotropic focus, and preference for wearing the same clothes* The hosts discuss how the show provides nuanced, humanized portrayals of Autistic characters, in contrast to stereotypical representations found in other media.* They highlight relatable Autistic experiences depicted in the show, such as special interests, social differences, meltdowns, and how the Belcher family navigates life together.* The hosts believe the creator of "Bob's Burgers" intentionally includes Autistic characters based on their previous work, and that the show normalizes Autistic traits rather than perpetuating harmful stereotypes.* Overall, the analysis demonstrates how "Bob's Burgers" offers valuable representation and relatability for the Autistic community, serving as a sitcom about an Autistic family that resonates with many neurodivergent viewers.*For the superfans out there: Yes, Matt gets a little caught up in the excitement of info dumping and calls Louise, ‘Tina’—it happens! TACP is dedicated to AUTHENTIC Autistic representation and this is an excellent example of how Autistics can forget things that allistics think we ‘should’ remember, especially when routines are off and social obligations are high—such as during the holiday season, when this episode was recorded. Autistics forgetting things isn’t a sign that we ‘don’t care’—Matt clearly cares a great deal about the show and its characters. It’s just a sign that we’re dealing with a lot at the moment and could use a little extra understanding and acceptance. #AutisticCultureCatchAngela shares about a viral discussion that got started because of an online review. In the comments, tell us which Autistic strengths make us naturally exceptional reviewers and what YOU would be especially good at reviewing.* Article: Autistic Representation in Bob’s Burgers (2011): Give ‘em something shiitake about* Bob’s Burger Burger Book* Article: Roland the Farter* Twitter/X link: Keith Lee * Episode 18 - Ponies are Autistic* Episode 19: Eminem is Autistic* Episode 29: Questlove is Autistic* 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 * TACP’s 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

Embracing Neurodiversity: An Autistic Advocate's Perspective on Redefining Support* Autistic guest Maisie Soetantyo shares her experience transitioning from working in ABA (applied behavioral analysis) therapy to a neurodiversity-affirming, relationship-based approach.* Maisie emphasizes the importance of allowing Autistic children to nurture their interests and passions, which can guide them towards meaningful careers, rather than trying to fit them into a neurotypical mold.* She cautions against the pressure on parents of newly diagnosed Autistic children to follow "expert" advice, urging them to reconnect with their own instincts and recognize the harmful nature of institutions that prioritize profits over people.* Maisie co-runs Autism Career Pathways, connecting Autistic adults with families raising Autistic kids and educating the wider community on neurodiversity.* She advises Autistic individuals seeking sustainable careers to invest in learning about themselves from Autistic-led resources, find community, and define ideal work conditions for their needs, as self-advocacy starts with self-knowledge.* For businesses hiring Autistic employees, Maisie encourages them to avoid underestimating or making snap judgments based on ableist stereotypes, and instead recognize the unique strengths Neurodivergent people can offer when given the right opportunities and accommodations.* The discussion highlights the need for more paid Autistic-led advocacy to ensure Autistic voices are valued and not exploited.* Maisie shares her favorite aspects of being Autistic, including her constant creative flow of ideas and ability to connect with diverse individuals, demonstrating the richness of neurodiversity.* Maisie shared about her neurodivergent family and upbringing. In the comments, tell us which aspects of Autistic culture played a strong, positive role in your childhood.* Find Maisie and her work at www.autismcareerpathways.org* Twitter thread on Autistic experts* The highly ableist (and fascinating train wreck) “Recruiting Giants” presentationListen to next:* Episode 13: Labels & Autism* Episode 24: The Trouble with Temple* Episode 36: Bad Autism Diagnosis* Episode 38: Productivity 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 * TACP’s 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

Harnessing Neurodivergent Strengths: The Autistic-Affirming Whodunnit of "Only Murders in the Building"* "Only Murders in the Building" is a comedic whodunnit created by Steve Martin and John Hoffman, starring an ensemble cast including Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez.* The three main characters, all social outcasts or eccentrics living in an upscale New York apartment building, bond over their mutual love of true crime podcasts and decide to start their own podcast to investigate a suspicious death in their building.* Despite their tragic pasts and feeling misunderstood by their neighbors, the characters overcome their challenges through their unconventional friendship and neurodivergent abilities that make them excellent amateur detectives.* Their attention to detail, logical leaps, and keen pattern recognition skills – common strengths associated with autism and other neurodivergences – prove advantageous in solving the mystery.* The characters' hyper-fixation and singular focus, fueled by their neurodivergent interests, drive them to continue investigating even when faced with setbacks, demonstrating the power of embracing neurological differences.* By highlighting the protagonists' neurodivergent gifts as assets in their crime-solving endeavors, the show offers a neurodiversity-affirming portrayal of unconventional minds thriving through collaboration and shared passions.This episode, Angela shared about at least two popular aspects of Autistic food culture. In the comments, tell us which Autistic food habits you picked up on, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media!* Article: Only Murders in the Building is Autistic: Here’s how these characters are neurodivergent coded and how it makes them good detectives* Article: The Cast of 'Only Murders in the Building': Everything to Know* Facebook page for AANE's Fall 2023 Virtual Daniel W. Rosenn Connections Conference* AANE’s main Facebook pageSimilar episodes:* Episode 11: Sherlock is Autistic* Episode 12: Parks & Rec is Autistic* ‘The Kinsey episode’: Episode 35: Sex is Autistic* Episode 17: Wednesday is Autistic?* Episode 31: Chess 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 * TACP’s 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

Embracing Autistic Strengths: Celebrating Tennis Icon John McEnroe's Neurodiversity* #ActuallyAutistic podcast hosts Matt Lowry, LPP and Dr. Angela Kingdon explore how tennis legend John McEnroe exhibited many autistic traits throughout his career and personal life.* McEnroe utilized his pattern recognition and visualization skills to anticipate the ball's movements, turning the game into a "math equation" – strengths commonly associated with autistic cognition.* However, his on-court emotional reactions to unfair calls were unjustly portrayed by the media as "brat-like" behavior, rather than a natural response stemming from autistic traits like expectation sensitivity and scripting.* McEnroe's wife, Patty, believes he is on the autism spectrum based on his routines, math skills, sensory issues, and focus on special interests like art and guitar.* The podcast hosts argue that with a neurodiversity-affirming lens, McEnroe's meltdowns could have been understood as a reaction to an allistic world demanding conformity over authenticity.* Now, in his later years, McEnroe embraces his autistic interests and characteristics, channeling them positively into charitable work, art, and voiceover projects.* The discussion encourages listeners to identify and celebrate the autistic "SPINs" (special interests) they recognize in McEnroe's story, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride.Did you catch all of McEnroe’s Autistic SPINs? In the comments, tell us which Autistic interests you picked up on, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!* McEnroe’s memoir: But Seriously* eBook: You Cannot Be Serious : McEnroe, John, Kaplan, James* Autistic people have big emotions—YouTube video: The Meltdown of all Meltdowns* Article: John McEnroe: Star not he possibility of being Autistic, ‘I’m somewhere around there’ * Article: Review: In McEnroe, the Tennis Great Reflects on a Career Driven by His Exacting Strategy and Explosive Temper | Third Coast Review* NPR episode: John McEnroe grapples with his legacy as tennis' bad boy * Visual: McEnroe’s Warhol painting* Article: McEnroe’s Charity Work Begins Off Court * McEnroe’s voice work website* Article: A Point in Time: McEnroe and the puff of chalkListen to next:McEnroe loves chess and we know why! Episode 31: Chess is Autistic McEnroe’s looking to break into voice over work and he’ll have plenty of company when he makes it: Episode 32: Animation is Autistic 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 * TACP’s 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

Happy Halloween!*TW: This episode was recorded prior to the allegations against Danny Elfman breaking.  TACP stands with victims of assault and wish the Autistic community comfort and healing as we grapple with our feelings, both individually and collectively. Please, take care. For more support and resources, please read our guest blog “When Your Special Interest Turns Out to be Problematic.” Neurodiversity-Affirming Insights: Tim Burton's Autistic Creative Vision Tim Burton, while not formally diagnosed, publicly identifies as Autistic and his creative style reflects many Autistic traits: * Fascination with classic monster movies and feeling "different" as a child * Dedicated, creative expression through homemade monster movies* Struggles in school and potential reading differences (e.g., dyslexia)* Difficulty connecting with his father over creative interestsGravitating towards other Hollywood "eccentrics and outsiders" Burton's films often feature misunderstood outcasts and themes of feeling like a misfit (e.g., Edward Scissorhands, Beetlejuice, Ed Wood), resonating with autistic audiences. He works repeatedly with the same actors (e.g., Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter) who "get" his autistic communication style, describing their relationships as an "unwritten language." While struggling when pressured to make big moneymakers, Burton thrives creatively when given the freedom to follow his unique vision, resulting in wildly popular cult classics beloved by the autistic community. Burton's story exemplifies how autistic individuals can channel their unique perspectives and strengths into remarkable creative pursuits.At 06:40 Angela figures something out—what is it, and what clues from Matt led her to that discovery?* Silent horror film that influenced Burton’s work: The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari (1920) on YouTube: 51 minutes* Tim Burton’s Wikipedia page.Related episodes…Who invented motion pictures? This Autistic artist! Motion Pictures are Autistic Was Walt Disney Autistic? We think so! Episode 26: Disney is Autistic Whether you relate to the book-loving beauty or the isolated beast, check out Episode 34: Beauty & the Beast is Autistic Burton’s recent Netflix show features an Autistic character…or does it? We get into it, in Episode 17: Wednesday is Autistic? 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 * TACP’s 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

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast:One of our own podcast hosts, Matt Lowry, LPP, was interviewed on Meg Ferrell’s podcast, “Two Sides of the Spectrum,” about strengths-based autism diagnoses. Listen in to find out why this interview a) made Angela cry, and b) became the catalyst for TACP!Matt draws from his personal and professional experience working with Autistic children, teens, and adults to criticize how the traditional autism diagnosis process focuses on deficits as compared to neurotypical norms. He contrasts this with his strengths-based diagnoses, which focuses on natural variations in autistic people.He advocates for diagnosticians to learn about autism as a cultural difference, not a disorder. They should be knowledgeable about diverse presentations in women, trans people, and racial minorities. Autism awareness is inherently flawed and harmful without this understanding.Meg: And what you're describing is neurotypical evaluators who haven't done their work to understand Autism.Matt: It's essentially a cultural difference.Meg: Yeah.Matt: Because if a white evaluator approaches a person of color, and tries to talk about their deficits in not being white, that's horrifying. And to say, ‘oh, you don't communicate in the same way that I do. You don't have the same cultural touchstones that I do’—that is ridiculously, horrifyingly racist—and it’s the same approach with Autism.Matt outlines his model of Autistic-centered therapy which focuses on interpersonal skills, trauma, advocacy, and taking care of our “meat bodies,” with sleep and other forms of self-care. This form of therapy for Autistic individuals centers the mental health and wellbeing of the Autistic person, rather than focusing on compliance with neuronormative standards.He strongly cautions against ABA for autism as destructive and points out that it is aimed at making autistic people indistinguishable from peers at the expense of the autistic individual’s mental and emotional well-being.Matt reads an early version of the allegorical legend, "The Legend of Autistica," which tells the story of an Autistic warrior freeing people from the oppressive demands of neurotypical society.The key takeaway is that autism should be approached as a cultural difference requiring mutual understanding, not as a disorder to be fixed. Diagnosticians and therapists should affirm autistic strengths.Amazing Meg was culturally respectful in this interview. Did you catch some of the green flags? Tell us about it in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answers on social media and connect with other listeners!Show notes and resources:Original Two Sides of the Spectrum episode on Meg’s Learn, Play, Thrive website.More on Autistic Centered Therapy.Matt’s strengths-based diagnostic criteria. Related episodes…Learn about the opposite of a strengths-based autism diagnosis: Episode #36 Bad DiagnosisListen to the updated version of our Autistic origin story (now, complete with dragons!): Episode #25 The Legend of AutisticaReady 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 * TACP’s 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 is an autism podcast that 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 organization 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

Celebrating Autistic Culture Through Actor Peter Cushing's Creative Passions* Podcast hosts Matt Lowry and Dr. Angela Kingdon discuss how actor Peter Cushing embodied aspects of Autistic culture across his varied interests and creative pursuits.* Cushing starred in influential sci-fi/fantasy franchises like Doctor Who, Star Wars, and Sherlock Holmes, showcasing his versatility as an actor.* Beyond acting, Cushing was an avid player and collector of the tabletop war game "War," which inspired the creation of Dungeons & Dragons - a game beloved by many in the autistic community.* The hosts highlight how Cushing handcrafted over 2,000 miniature soldiers and models for his "War" gaming, exemplifying autistic traits like attention to detail, special interests, and imaginative world-building.* Cushing's story is seen as emblematic of autistic culture, embracing creative hobbies, strategic game play, and deep immersion in special interests.* The discussion also touches on the concept of "SPIN drop" - the intense grief autistic individuals can experience when disconnected from a core part of their identity or special interest.* By celebrating Cushing's multifaceted passions, the podcast sheds light on the richness of autistic creativity and the value of embracing neurodiversity.Do you want more minisodes? What do you want to hear Matt or Angela give a quick infodump on?* Facebook post with pictures of Peter Cushings models* The Peter Cushing Doctor Who Movie Appreciation Group* The Peter Cushing Association Facebook group * Want to learn about more Autistic activities? Episode 39: Dungeons & Dragons is Autistic * Why do Autistics work in bursts? Check out Episode 38: Productivity is Autistic* One of the Autistic community’s favorite Autistic characters: Episode 30: Doctor Who is Autistic* What does an Autism-friendly workplace look like? Episode 04: Industrial Light & Magic 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 * TACP’s 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