Autistic Culture | Where Autism Meets Identity!

Wikipedia's Autistic Editors: Unsung Heroes and Exploitation in the Digital Knowledge Space* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss Wikipedia's reliance on autistic editors and volunteers, highlighting the platform's alignment with autistic strengths in organizing information and sharing special interests.* They explore how autistic traits like data hunger and justice sensitivity contribute to more inclusive and diverse content on Wikipedia.* The hosts examine tensions around defining "neutrality" in controversial topics, noting how autistic editors often focus on "what is right" rather than "who is right."* The podcast reveals concerning patterns of ableism within Wikimedia's management, including:* Harassment and discrimination against autistic employees* Mocking and demeaning autistic editors behind the scenes* Exploitation of free autistic labor while fundraising off their contributions* They discuss the case of "Jane," a former autistic Wikimedia employee who faced bullying after disclosing her autism diagnosis, leading to an EEOC complaint she later dropped due to burnout.* The hosts critique "A-Spectrumers" within the company who perpetuate internalized ableism and neuronormativity through bullying and use of functioning labels.* They urge listeners to support local Wikipedia chapter groups often run by autistics, rather than donating to Wikimedia's central fundraising efforts.* The podcast encourages privileged autistic individuals to become high-edit count editors to change Wikipedia's culture from within, while prioritizing mental health.* Overall, the episode explores the complex relationship between Wikipedia's autism-friendly platform and its problematic management practices, calling for greater recognition and fair treatment of autistic contributors.How has ableism affected you in the work place? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Show notes and resources:Wikipedia’s definition of ableismHow to become a Wikipedia editor Wikipedia:WikiProject AutismThread: Autism Spectrum Wrongly Described In WikipediaThread: Wikipedia likes us!Wikipedia:High-functioning autism and Asperger's editorsWikipedians with autismArticle: Wikipedia accused of bullying former autistic employee with claims of a toxic work cultureVillage pump (miscellaneous)Article: Alex St John’s Ideas About Game Development Are TerrifyingOther episodes to check out if you liked this one:Episode 04: Industrial Light & Magic is AutisticEpisode 35: Sex is Autistic (Alfred Kinsey episode)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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mythic Quest: Celebrating Autistic Culture in the Gaming World* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the Apple TV+ series "Mythic Quest," set in a video game development studio, praising its positive representation of autistic characters and culture.* They focus on the lead character Poppy Li, played by Charlotte Nicdao, analyzing how her personality, interests, and behaviors align with common autistic traits.* The hosts explore Poppy's backstory, which reveals her childhood struggles with social expectations and her passionate interest in video games, highlighting her monotropic focus.* Other autistic-coded characters like Rachel, Dana, and Joe are discussed, showcasing the diversity of autistic experiences portrayed in the show.* The podcast examines themes central to autistic culture depicted in "Mythic Quest," including:* Pursuing special interests* Navigating allistic social cues and figurative language* Balancing individual visions with corporate directives* The hosts emphasize the importance of neurodiversity in society, arguing for the value of autistic perspectives in various fields and innovations.* They commend "Mythic Quest" for its complex, multifaceted representation of autistic characters, contrasting it with common negative stereotypes.* Overall, the podcast recommends "Mythic Quest" as an insightful and entertaining look into autistic lives and culture, particularly within the context of the gaming industry.Are you a gamer? What’s your favorite game? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Mythic Quest on WikifandomTik Tok: Erin Rackham, PhDBook (authored by Angela): The Equalizing Quill: 6 Ways Generative AI Can Boost Publication Access for Underrepresented AuthorsCheck out:Episode 12: Parks & Rec is AutisticEpisode 43: Only Murders in the Building is AutisticEpisode 45: Bob’s Burgers is AutisticEpisode 57: Community 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Navigating Pregnancy and Childbirth as an Autistic AFAB: Breaking the Silence on Unique Challenges* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the often-overlooked challenges autistic AFAB (Assigned Female at Birth) individuals face during pregnancy and childbirth.* They highlight the lack of research and information available on autism and pregnancy, leaving many autistic individuals' unique needs and sensitivities unrecognized and unaccommodated.* Angela shares her personal experiences, including severe morning sickness, limited safe foods, and feeling disconnected from the typical pregnancy narrative, emphasizing the diversity of autistic pregnancy experiences.* The hosts discuss how autistic individuals often face criticism and abandonment from care providers for not conforming to "typical" pregnancy expectations or asking questions about procedures.* They reference a study showing autistic women often feel belittled, ignored, and uninformed during childbirth, with heightened attention often perceived as negative rather than positive.* The podcast critiques the profit-driven approach of many hospitals, which can lead to unnecessary medical interventions regardless of the pregnant person's birth plan.* Working with a doula is highlighted as a positive strategy for autistic individuals, providing detailed explanations and preparation to mitigate anxiety and potential trauma.* The hosts emphasize the crucial need for community support, story sharing, and trauma-informed care specifically tailored for autistic individuals during pregnancy and childbirth.* Overall, the episode underscores the importance of self-understanding and identity in advocating for one's needs as an autistic person navigating pregnancy and childbirth.What was your Autistic experience of being pregnant? Tell us in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Article: Autism, pregnancy and childbirthVideo: Autistic Pregnancy: How I copedArticle: Autistic and pregnantStudy: Pregnancy in autistic women and social medical considerationsPlay script: Birth By Karen BrodyBook: Pregnancy Childbirth and the Newborn: The Complete Guide by Penny Simkin Book: The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer More episodes…Episode 14: Autistic Medical NeedsEpisode 20: Sesame Street is AutisticEpisode 56: Lessons in Chemistry 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"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 — and its creatorsArticle: 5 Moral Philosophy Concepts Featured on The Good PlaceTikTok: Character analysis It’s 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 * 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 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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: Community‘s Danny Pudi on Abed’s 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: Community’s Dan Harmon Discovered He Had Asperger’s While Writing Abed’s CharacterArticle: The Secret World of Imagination Hidden in AutismArticle: Community Q&A: Danny Pudi on Abed’s 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 Asperger’s: ‘I’m Just Trying To Be Honest About Who I Am’Documentary: 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 * 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*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: ‘Lessons in Chemistry’ Star Aja Naomi King on Telling the Story of L.A.’s 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 * 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*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 * 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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: Hannah’s memoir, stand-up specials, and a few interviews). We have since learned that Hannah’s pronouns are they/them. TACP fully supports gender diversity and respecting people’s 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: ‘I’ve always been plagued by a sense that I was a little out of whack’* NPR’s Fresh Air: Autism Spectrum Diagnosis Helped Comic Hannah Gadsby 'Be Kinder' To Herself* Article: Hannah Gadsby told she was ‘too fat’ and ‘too female’ to be autistic* Article: Hannah Gadsby Threatened to Quit Comedy in Nanette. Her New Memoir Proves She’s Not Going Anywhere* Article: Ten Steps to Nanette by Hannah Gadsby audiobook review – startling candourFern Notes:* Book: Strong Female Character * Wikipedia: Fern Brady * YouTube playlist: Taskmaster Series 14 * Article: Taskmaster’s 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: ‘Everything ends up about death and shagging’: 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 * 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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* Andralyn’s Instagram* Andralyn’s 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 * 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 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 ‘tism.* 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.What’s 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!Nico’s 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 support—the 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 * 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.