Autistic Culture | Where Autism Meets Identity!

In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, Matt and Angela explore how to create a joyful, neurodivergent Christmas by letting go of societal expectations, prioritizing sensory needs, and embracing personalized traditions. They unpack the pressures of picture-perfect Hallmark holidays, the disruptions to autistic routines, and the importance of setting boundaries—while also sharing strategies for reducing overstimulation and making the season truly your own.🎧 What You’ll LearnWhy Hallmark-style Christmas ideals can create unrealistic and unhelpful expectations for autistic people.How holiday routine disruptions can cause dysregulation and what to do about it.Navigating family gatherings when other autistic relatives are undiagnosed or in denial.Practical meltdown management tools, from sensory supports to safe people.How to advocate for accommodations like reduced noise, dimmed lights, or skipping certain traditions.Setting healthy boundaries around physical touch and interactions with relatives.The importance of a “holiday comfort kit” for sensory regulation.Matt’s Christmas Dragon tradition and the joy of making your own autistic-friendly holiday customs.Autistic gift-giving strengths and why they shine during the holidays.Food rules and safe food strategies for surviving family meals.Self-care ideas to carry you through the gauntlet of Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day.Resources:Jade Farrington’s Community Guide to a Happy Neurodivergent ChristmasRelated Episodes:Krampus is AutisticChristmas is Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, Matt and Angela take on audience requests to break down the problematic and often misleading language of the DSM-5. They unpack how the manual pathologizes autism, overlooks key realities like proprioceptive challenges and co-occurring conditions, and frames autistic traits through a strictly neurotypical viewpoint. From dismantling ableist IQ testing to reframing so-called "deficits" as differences, this episode invites listeners to see autism for what it truly is—a rich, diverse neurotype, not a disorder to be “fixed.”🎧 What You’ll LearnHow the DSM-5 pathologizes autism and centres neurotypical perspectives.Why IQ tests are ableist and shouldn’t define diagnosis or worth.The truth about autistic “social deficits” and why they’re actually social differences.Why the DSM’s claim that autistic people “lack imagination” is deeply flawed.How SPINs (Special Interests) bring joy, fulfilment, and expertise—and why the DSM mislabels them.Why routines and stimming are powerful tools for autistic regulation.The overlooked sensory and proprioceptive realities of autistic life.How autism’s hereditary nature and medical overlaps (like POTS, PMDD, and endometriosis) are often ignored in clinical descriptions.Resources:https://www.mattlowrylpp.com/blog/reframing-dsm-autism-criteriahttps://www.mattlowrylpp.com/meme-galleryRelated Episodes:Bad Autism Diagnosis🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, Matt and Angela explore the viral Takiwātanga meme—a social media trend often featuring striking images of Polynesian women and claiming that Takiwātanga is the Māori word for autism, meaning “in their own time and space.” They trace the real story behind the word, its creator, and the deeper cultural and colonial implications it raises.🎧 What You’ll LearnThe true origin of the term Takiwātanga and how Māori linguist Keri O’Pai created it to depathologize mental health language.Why O’Pai’s glossary was designed to offer empowering, non-pathologizing Māori terms for mental health, disability, and addiction.How well-meaning neurotypicals sometimes romanticize or exoticize autism through alternative labels.Why many autistic people prefer to use the actual word “autism” and avoid euphemistic language.How colonizer language inherently pathologizes everyone—except white people.The harm of person-first language and why many autistics reject it.Why support needs are a human reality—not a flaw—and how hyper-independence culture demonizes them.How colonialism shapes global perspectives on disability and identity labels.Related Episodes:Labels are AutisticCareers are Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Angela and Matt explore how to approach creative projects through a neurodivergent lens. From scripting and hyperfocus to book mapping and demand avoidance, they unpack the ways autistic traits can both challenge and supercharge the writing process. Whether you’re crafting your first short story or planning a full novel, this conversation shows how writing systems can be just as essential as the systems autistic people rely on for daily life.🎧 What You’ll LearnAngela’s personal writing journey—from her first stories at age 10, to an espionage-flavoured government career, to founding Difference Press.How our exclusive paid Substack writing circle fosters creativity without the pressure of profit.Why writing can help hyper-verbal autistic individuals organize thoughts and communicate ideas clearly.How scripting, a common autistic tool, shapes the writing process and reduces chaos.The role of hyperfocus in creative output (and why it might explain Stephen King’s staggering productivity).Why writing for your own enjoyment—even without an audience—can be deeply cathartic.Tips for “discovering your author mojo” by creating conditions that support your autistic body and brain.How PDA/demand avoidance can derail writing projects and practical strategies to get unstuck.Resources:Join the Autistic Culture Podcast Writing Circle on SubstackRelated Episodes:George Lucas is AutisticEminem is Autistic Cassandra in Reverse Book Club (Paid Access)🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, Matt and Angela dive into the autistic hell that is moving—exploring the intricate details, overwhelming processes, and the regulation strategies that can make the chaos more manageable. From survival packs to emotional attachment to belongings, they break down the systems autistic individuals often need to stay comfortable and grounded at home.🎧 What You’ll LearnHow Matt navigated his recent move, including coping strategies for the stress and sensory overload it caused.Why emotional regulation is the “number one job” for autistic people, and how to prioritize it during big transitions.The benefits of creating an Autistic Survival Pack in each room—complete with comfort items, sensory supports, and tools for temperature regulation.Why autistic folks may be more prone to hoarding tendencies and the emotional connections we form with belongings.How to break the “generational curse” of clutter without sacrificing what truly matters to your wellbeing.Practical ways to incorporate regulation techniques into every step of the moving process.Resources:Ziffit - Sell Your Books Matt’s Favorite Disney Coffee Related Episodes:Autistic Medical NeedsAutism Affirming Social Skills🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela discuss everyone’s favourite mythical creature—the vampire. Throughout the conversation, they uncover some uncanny parallels between autistic individuals and our fang-tastic fictional friends.🩸 What You’ll Sink Your Teeth Into in This EpisodeThe parallels between autistic individuals and vampires begin with health comorbidities like POTS and haemophilia, before diving into the more supernatural realms.The art of shapeshifting mirrors autistic masking—and while vampires boast immortality, autistics share their own secret: we often appear to defy aging, as if time plays by a different rulebook for us.From The Addams Family and What We Do in the Shadows to even Sesame Street, Matt and Angela explore why these spooky icons resonate as autistic-coded characters.They unpack traits like monotropic focus, infodumping, and misunderstood behaviours often mistaken for manipulation—showing a deeper neurodivergent connection to our favourite eerie figures.And yes—they reveal the truly autistic reason why garlic keeps vampires at bay… but you’ll have to listen to get the scoop! 🧄Resources:A Deep dive into Vampires we used for research: Encyclopedia Britannica’s entry about vampiresPage referenced in the episode: https://www.instagram.com/date_dave_phillyRelated Episodes:Ponies are AutisticBeauty & the Beast is AutisticKink is Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr. Angela Kingdon shares the dazzling story of Freddie Mercury’s Autistic traits with her co-host, Matt Lowry, LPP. From his love of cats to his unmatched vocal brilliance, we explore how Mercury’s life and art reflect the beauty of the autistic experience.🎧 What You’ll Learn:How Freddie’s hypermobility and possible EDS contributed to his extraordinary vocal range.Mercury’s many special interests: from stamp collecting and cats to Japanese art.The vital role of echolalia, echopraxia, and advanced pattern-matching in shaping Queen’s signature sound.Mercury’s sexuality and gender expression, showing the spectrum of identity.Quotes and lyrics that mirror the autistic experience of masking and being misunderstood.His struggles with executive functioning differences and the creative hacks he used to navigate sensory sensitivity.Resources:Freddie Mercury & Ehlers Danlos SyndromeMultiple supernumerary teeth (MSNT) and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS): a case reportThe strangest, craziest, and most disgusting animated film is back with its own series.Peter Freestone Talks... About Freddie & His CatsThe Development Of The ‘Epic’ Queen SoundHow Queen's I Want to Break Free Video Explores Queerness in Relation to Queer TheoryFreddie and the Rocky Horror Picture ShowFreddie Mercury "I'm Not The Leader Of The Band"Related Episodes:Cats are AutisticMeat Body MaintenanceAutistic Medical Needs🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP chat with Ashley Storrie—comedian, writer, autistic advocate, and the star of the new series Dinosaur (available now on Hulu in the U.S.). Ashley brings her full autistic self to the role of Nina, offering representation that’s not just authentic, but transformative.🎧 What You’ll Learn:The unconventional way Ashley was invited to join the writing team—and why autistic writers are essential for shaping autistic characters.Ashley’s journey to discovering her autistic identity.Autistic linguistics, language play, and exploring the “shape” of words.On-set accommodations that supported Ashley and the whole cast and crew.How Ashley authentically portrayed autistic overwhelm without becoming dysregulated herself.Why casting autistic actors in autistic roles isn’t just good representation—it’s good business.A behind-the-scenes look at how the creative team decided on Nina’s sexual history.Food as stimming: samefoods, sensory-seeking flavors, crunchy vs. soft vs. wet vs. dry textures.Ashley’s complex (and hilarious) relationship with The Edinburgh Fringe Festival.Featured Guest:Ashley Storrie is a comedian, writer, and actress whose star has been rapidly rising. She can be heard live every Friday night hosting her own BBC Radio Scotland show and co-hosting the Midsomer Murders Podcast. Known for her viral Harry Potter parody #tanyapotter (with over 22 million views), Ashley has gone on to create digital hits for BBC Scotland including If The Handmaid’s Tale Was Scottish and If Game of Thrones Was Scottish.Resources:Follow Ashley Storrie on InstagramCheck out the official trailerWatch Dinosaur on HuluRelated Episodes:Star Trek is AutisticWednesday is Autistic?Comedy is AutisticCommunity is Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Autistic hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP discuss the many ways Taylor Swift and her fanbase of “Swifties” embody and reflect Autistic Culture. This episode was HIGHLY requested by Autistic Swiftie listeners and their contributions are incorporated throughout. Much like how Cher is a Queer culture icon—regardless of her own sexual orientation—we are celebrating Swift as an Autistic culture icon—regardless of her own neurotype. This is a celebration of the ways we see our fabulous culture represented in the once-in-a-generation, Taylor Swift.🎧 What You’ll Learn:Taylor’s encyclopaedic knowledge about cats 🐱Using music as a tool for purpose, community, and career successCreating and solving puzzles, riddles, and “Easter eggs” in her workHow Swift’s lyrics and interviews mirror autistic experiences of feeling like an outsider and masking to fit inThe intersection of capitalism, privilege, and disability in her careerJustice sensitivity and expectation sensitivity—two common autistic traitsTracing autistic patterns through her family tree (including Emily Dickinson!)How “Shake It Off” resonates as a cultural anthem for autistic folks💌 Shout-Outs:This episode was made possible thanks to contributions from two amazing Swifty listeners:Brittany SellersAutumn ElliotResources:Taylor Swift is related to famed American poet Emily Dickinson, Ancestry revealsAncestry reveals Taylor Swift is related to American poet Emily DickinsonCould Taylor Swift have Asperger's syndrome?40+ of Taylor Swift's Most Brilliant Easter Eggs, DecodedA Comprehensive Breakdown of Taylor Swift's Easter EggsTaylor Swift listing cat breeds on FallonInterviews of Taylor Swift describing maskingThe number "13" videoRelated Episodes:Poetry is Autistic (The Emily Dickinson episode)Fairy Tales are Autistic Dino Nuggets are AutisticCats are AutisticThe Good Place is Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Autistic Culture Podcast, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP explore the hidden role autistic people play in making Wikipedia what it is today. While the platform thrives on autistic strengths like information organization, data hunger, and special interests, there’s also a darker side: exploitation, harassment, and ableism inside Wikimedia’s culture.🎧 What You’ll Learn:Why Wikipedia is perfectly aligned with autistic traits like pattern-matching, info-dumping, and justice sensitivity.How autistic editors contribute to making content more inclusive, accurate, and diverse.The autistic approach to “neutrality”: focusing on what is right rather than who is right.Reports of harassment and bullying of autistic employees behind the scenes at Wikimedia.The story of “Jane,” a former autistic Wikimedia employee whose diagnosis disclosure led to burnout after facing discrimination.The dangers of “A-Spectrumers” and functioning labels inside the organization.Why donating to local Wikipedia chapter groups (often run by autistics) may be more effective than giving to Wikimedia’s central fundraisers.A call to autistic editors: if you have the privilege and capacity, your high edit counts could help shift Wikipedia’s culture for the better—while remembering to protect your mental health.Resources:Wikipedia’s definition of ableismHow to become a Wikipedia editorWikipedia:WikiProject AutismAutism Spectrum Wrongly Described In WikipediaWikipedia likes us!Wikipedia:High-functioning autism and Asperger's editorsWikipedians with autismWikipedia accused of bullying former autistic employee with claims of a toxic work cultureVillage pump (miscellaneous)Alex St John’s Ideas About Game Development Are TerrifyingRelated Episodes:Industrial Light & Magic is AutisticSex is Autistic (Alfred Kinsey episode)Productivity is Autistic🌟 Connect With Us📱 Follow us on Instagram🎧 Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify🛍️Our Autism-affirming merch shop🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.