Autistic Culture | Where Autism Meets Identity!

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.What’s your little world that you like to build and control? Video: Daniel’s 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 * 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.

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: Pokémon 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. We’re here, we’re 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 “Book Us” page.* Want more autism-affirming goodies? You might enjoy Angela’s 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 * 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 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 Brown’s 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 * 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 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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

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