Autistic Culture | Where autism meets identity!

#ActuallyAutistic podcast hosts, Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP, interview Dr. Kade Sharp to discuss the ways that kink fits into Autistic culture. * What is kink (spoiler: it’s not necessarily sexual!), what are some common kinks, and are “kinksters” dangerous or ill?* The fundamental flaws in most research methods that explore Autistic sexuality.* Stereotypes and misunderstandings that most people have about the kink community.* Kinky spreadsheets and other Autistic systems of communicating comfort and consent.* Honoring sensory differences, connecting through SPINs, defined expectations, and other ways that the kink community appeals to so many autistics.* How kink helps neurodivergent folks to feel empowered—regardless of whether or not they identify as a kinkster. * Tips on exploring kink with partners, finding kinky folks to explore with, and getting kinky solo.“I think I just found out I'm kinky.”“I think a lot of your listeners are going to find that out today.”“Someone asked if he was my biological son. And I said, ‘why, yes.’ And somebody was like, ‘well, how did you make him?’ And…It occurred to me while answering this question: there is a big myth out there that we do not have the sex.”“Kink is not just sexual. So, in fact, a good proportion of the folks that responded to my eligibility survey for the study were on the aro/ace spectrum.”“There's so much unspoken stuff and so much resentment because allistic partners say, ‘You should know what I want,’ or that kind of nonsense. But when you explicitly negotiate and have spreadsheets regarding everything from eye contact to butt stuff, it makes relationships run a lot smoother.”Are you an Autistic kinkster? How does kink help empower you? Share in the comments! #AutisticCultureCatchGuest Bio:Dr. Kade Sharp (he/they) is an autistic transgender Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker practicing in Richland, Washington, at Spectrum Counseling, his private practice, where he sees therapy clients, supervises clinicians working toward licensure, and provides case consultation for colleagues. Kade is also a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor and a certified Child Mental Health Specialist. He has his PhD in Clinical Sexology through Modern Sex Therapy Institutes. Kade has a clinical focus on working with autistic and trans folks of all ages, especially those with anxiety challenges. His volunteer work over the past ten years has been with local LGBTQ+ youth centers, Pride organizations, the Diversity Equity Inclusion team at a local school district, and serving on the WA state chapter of the Association for Play Therapy board.  Resources:* A Kink in the Spectrum (Kade's dissertation)* Dr. Erin Findley (dissertation chair)* Dr. Amy Pearson (dissertation committee member)* Dr. Nick Walker (dissertation committee member) * Neurokink (Kade's side project & mailing list)* Mojoupgrade (digital kink checklist)* Bex Talks Sex's Super Powered Yes/No/Maybe List (printable)* Thrive (an annual virtual BDSM & Mental Health Conference)* Dr. Faith G Harper's publications on sex, kink, & mental health* Dr. Emily Nagoski's publication on sex* Dr. Katie Munday's research and advocacy* FetLife (kink social media)* Hiki (autistic dating app)Similar episodes:* Episode 35: Sex is Autistic* Episode 56: Lessons in Chemistry is Autistic* Episode 59: Pregnancy 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

Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP chat with Ashley Storrie—the autistic writer and star of the new series, “Dinosaur” (available on Hulu in the U.S.). Discussed:* The unconventional way that Ashely was brought on as a writer and the importance of Autistic writers shaping autistic characters.* How Ashley came to discover her autistic identity.* Autistic linguistics and the “shape” of words.* How production accommodated Ashely (and everyone else!). Plus, how Ashley avoided being triggered while authentically portraying overwhelm and overstimulation.* Why casting autistic actors in autistic roles is not only good representation—it’s good business!* An autistic brain love fest.* The behind-the-scenes process of deciding on the exact sexual history of Ashley’s character, Nina.* Same foods, sensory seeking tastes, and stimming with food!* Ashley’s complex history with The Edinburgh Fringe Festival.Quotes from this episode:“And she was like, you know, ‘You spend your life accommodating people. How about for this, we'll accommodate you?’”“So good, so clever, but also understood the assignment because it's a lived experience. And that's like you're saying: if you live it and you know it, it's not hard.”“It was more going right into myself and saying, ‘Who would you be if you didn't have all of that burden of pretending?’”“She's overcoming people, and maybe their relationship to autism, and she's overcoming other people's things, but never autism itself. That's a part of her and she loves it.”“So I've licked the Great Wall of China. I've licked Jimi Hendrix's guitar…It was such a compulsion of tasting history that I had to do it.”“And I have like a crunchy food, a soft food, a wet food and a dry food. And that's how I roll.”“Yeah, so much of what's magical about this show is just feeling so seen. And it's just such a gift.”More on Ashley:Comedian, writer and actress Ashley Storrie can be heard hosting her BBC Radio Scotland show live every Friday night from 10pm-1am. She is also the co-host of the new Midsomer Murders Podcast. Ashley is also known for her Harry Potter parody #tanyapotter, which has now had over 22 million views. As a result of her online success she was commissioned by BBC Scotland to create online content for their Short Stuff strand, producing viral hits including ‘If The Handmaid’s Tale was Scottish’ and ‘If Game of Thrones Was Scottish.’Do you feel represented by Ashley’s character, Nina? 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:Follow Ashley Storrie on InstagramCheck out the official trailerWatch Dinosaur on HuluOther episodes to check out if you liked this one:Episode 10: Star Trek is AutisticEpisode 17: Wednesday is Autistic?Episode 54: Comedy 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

Matt Lowry, LPP and Dr. Angela Lauria discuss:* Which came first: the autistic or the neurotypical? Are Autism and ADHD the same thing? Do neurotypicals have a disorder of pruning? * How ‘X-Men’ addresses discrimination, social justice, and provides representation for marginalized groups.* The two canonically autistic X-Men and several autistic-coded ones too! Plus, some of the errors allistics make when they try to write autistic characters.* Spiky profiles, code-switching, and the price (and privilege) of masking.* Matt’s no-holds-barred honest opinion of ABA for autism.* Hans Asperger, his legacy, and real-life mandatory autism registrations in at least eight U.S. states. * And, are bleach enemas a “cure” for autism? (Hint: NO!)Quotes from this episode:“In X-men, Mystique, the shape changer, can turn into human looking people and they ask her, ‘You can be anyone you want. Why do you do this?’ And she said, ‘Well just because I can be anyone I want, doesn't mean I should have to. You should be able to be yourself you should be able to be free to be the real authentic you and not mask.’ And, she literally masks all the time for survival, and that is exhausting.”“First stone tools—autistic people. First iron bridges—autistic people. Calculus—autistic people, like everything. We are not a new phenomenon.”“So basically we hoard our synapses like we hoard our collectibles.”“We are synapse hoarders. And this is why our brains process up to 42% more information at rest than neurotypical people.”“If you like weird, dark ‘Glee,’ you're going to love this.”Which X-Men superpower would you use to make the world safer for autistics? Which X-Men is your favorite? 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:Trailer for the new X-men series on Disney+: X-Men '97Other episodes to check out if you liked this one:Book Club #06: True BizEpisode 24: The Trouble with TempleEpisode 28: Superheroes are AutisticEpisode 30: Doctor Who is AutisticEpisode 61: Wikipedia 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

Autistic hosts, Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry LPP, are joined by autistic author, Becca Lory Hector. Topics include:* Midlife autism diagnosis…and all of the bumps and bruises along the way to get there. Plus, is autism really “over-diagnosed”?* Why identification is so important—at any age.* A neuro-affirming way to process, unpack, and grieve after diagnosis. * “Autistic preppers bags”: what they are and why we need them.* The ultimate place for “hobbity” people to get lost in the woods.* Navigating relationships post-autism identification, including mixed-disability relationships.* The nuances of masking: who, what, when, where, and why.Ode to the McNugget: “The perfection of McDonald's chicken nuggets is something to be marveled at a savory symphony of taste and texture accompanied by instant comfort and joy. Each golden crispy nugget is a bite of bliss. A delightful treasure, perfectly seasoned and cooked to tender, juicy excellence that pairs perfectly with the salty, savory goodness of their fries. The fries with their ideal crunch on the outside and soft, fluffy insides are the perfect companion to the magic of nuggets. Dipping them both into a favorite sauce creates a harmony of flavors to delight your senses. For me, McDonald's chicken nuggets aren't just a meal, but a joyful escape that consistently brings meaningful pleasure and comfort to my life. And no matter how many times I go, eating nuggets and fries remains a cherished ritual that brings me guaranteed satisfaction with every bite. Whether it's a reward after a doctor's appointment or a quick treat to lift my spirits, McDonald's chicken nuggets remind me that simple pleasures can bring the greatest joy.”What’s in your “Autistic peppers bag”?* For a limited time, early listeners can get their FREE copy of Becca’s book at: www.AlwaysBringYourSunglasses.com* Course: Self-Defined Living - A path to a quality autistic life* Becca’s website, Facebook, and InstagramWhat to listen to next:* Episode 21: Dino Nuggets are Autistic* Episode 31: Chess is Autistic* Episode 47: Autistic Centered Therapy - AuCT* Episode 61: Wikipedia is Autistic* Episode 63: Elsa 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

Taylor Swift: An Icon of Autistic Culture and Representation*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.Hosts, Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry LPP discuss the many ways that Taylor Swift and her fanbase of “Swifties” represent Autistic Culture. * They discuss Swift's traits that resonate with the autistic community:* Encyclopedic knowledge about cats* Using music as a means for finding purpose, community, and career success* Creating and solving puzzles, riddles, and "Easter eggs" in her work* The hosts analyze Swift's lyrics and interviews, noting her accurate descriptions of feeling like an outsider and masking to fit in, which align with common autistic experiences.* They explore the intersection of capitalism, privilege, and disability in Swift's career and public persona.* The podcast highlights the relationship between justice sensitivity and expectation sensitivity, both common traits in the autistic community.* Swift's family tree is examined for potential autistic traits, emphasizing the genetic component of neurodiversity.* The hosts celebrate Swift as a representation of Autistic culture in mainstream media, viewing her success as a positive reflection on the autistic community.* They discuss how Swift's music, particularly "Shake It Off," resonates as a cultural anthem for many autistic individuals.* Overall, the episode frames Swift's popularity as an opportunity to celebrate and raise awareness about Autistic culture in a positive, affirming light.“Listen, Taylor is the biggest star in the universe right now, and she represents Autistic Culture. And as the (Autistic) PR department, if we are not waving the flag: ‘The biggest star in the world is from Autistica!’…We have to. We have to celebrate this. There is so much to celebrate.” —Angela“Taylor's response to that was, ‘Well I am weird, and the cat jokes will stay!’” —Angela“It's very very very difficult, especially for celebrities, to come out because of the connotation of what it might mean to be autistic, because there might be some person somewhere saying, ‘You can't be autistic! You're nothing like my five-year-old boy!’” —Matt“That is why she wrote Shake It Off. That is the song of our people! That is a cultural hymn!” —AngelaAre you an autistic Swifty? Tell us all about it in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your answer on your social media and connect with other listeners!Shout Outs:Two Swifty listeners made this episode possible:* Brittany Sellers * Autumn ElliotShow notes and resources:(See listener-provided images at the bottom of this post)Article: Taylor Swift is related to famed American poet Emily Dickinson, Ancestry revealsArticle: Ancestry reveals Taylor Swift is related to American poet Emily DickinsonQuora: Could Taylor Swift have Asperger's syndrome?Article: 40+ of Taylor Swift's Most Brilliant Easter Eggs, DecodedYouTube: A Comprehensive Breakdown of Taylor Swift's Easter EggsVideo: Taylor Swift listing cat breeds on FallonVideo: Interviews of Taylor Swift describing masking Video: The number "13" videoOther episodes to check out if you liked this one:Episode 03: Poetry is Autistic (The Emily Dickinson episode)Episode 09: Fairy Tales are Autistic Episode 21: Dino Nuggets are Autistic Episode 46: Cats are AutisticEpisode 58: The Good Place 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

Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, LPP, discuss authentic autistic representation in the character of Elsa from Frozen. They discuss masking, unmasking, ABA, sensory differences, autistic lineage, autistic women, and the heroes journey we all must take if we want to “Let it Go” and adventure “Into the Unknown.” Beyond that, this week’s quotes speak for themselves:The wind is howling like this swirling storm insideCouldn't keep it in, heaven knows I triedDon't let them in, don't let them seeBe the good girl you always have to beConceal, don't feel, don't let them knowWell, now they knowLet it go, let it goCan't hold it back anymoreLet it go, let it go—“Let it Go”“They were trying to conceal her because they didn't want the kingdom to know that she had powers. They were trying to make her fit in. To hide, to conceal, to fix. And it's very much ABA vibes.” —Matt“One of the biggest dangers of coming out (as autistic) is being vulnerable and losing your support system…and losing the people that you once thought liked you but just like the mask that you wore. So (unmasking) takes a lot of guts.” —Matt“And this is a big part about Frozen 2 because when we find ourselves, that can be an incredibly lonely process. Because, we have to we have to start shedding pieces of ourselves, one piece at a time to try to figure out—to get to the core of who we really are.” —Matt“You kind of have to settle into who you actually are instead of who you've been pretending to be.” —Angela“That does not happen the day the doctor says, or doesn't say, ‘You're autistic.’ Nothing magical happens that day. The magic is like the years and years of work and grief and processing and trying things, all the things you would have been doing.” —Angela“There's often, like, this unresolved resentment because when you finally figure out who you are you're like, holy shit, why didn't anyone (A) ever tell me (B) love me for who I really was or (C) tell me that I didn't have to hide myself?” —MattDo you relate to Elsa and the songs from Frozen? 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:Wiki Fandom: ElsaWikipedia: Frozen (2013 film) Blog: “Conceal, don’t feel”: The case for autistic ElsaArticle: ‘Frozen’ offers glimpse of autism in girlsBlog: 19 Reasons Why I Am Convinced Elsa Is AutisticArticle: Kristen Bell recalls Dax Shepard confronting her about her mental health Article: Kristen Bell Is Not Afraid To Share That She Takes Medication for Her Mental HealthArticle: Seeking Disney’s first disabled princessVideo: Story Of Frozen, The Making Of A Disney Animated Classic (2014) Article: 10 Things You May Not Know About Idina Menzel—The Wicked Movie and MoreYouTube: Hygge (From "Frozen: The Broadway Musical"/Audio Only) Presentation: Is it Weird that I’m Moving to the UK?Other episodes to check out if you liked this one:Episode 07: Apple is Autistic  Episode 09: Fairy Tales are Autistic Episode 26 - Disney is AutisticEpisode 34: Beauty and the Beast is AutisticEpisode 58: The Good Place 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

Autistic Advocates Unite: Challenging ABA Mandates in Kentucky Schools* Autistic podcast hosts Dr. Angela Lauria and Matt Lowry, along with advocates Winter and Kat, discuss a concerning push to mandate ABA therapy in Kentucky public schools.* The group strongly opposes this move, highlighting several critical points:* ABA is viewed as unethical by many autistic individuals, focusing on modifying outward behaviors without addressing inner experiences.* ABA operates from a deficit model, aiming to make autistic people appear more neurotypical, regardless of negative masking outcomes.* The “therapy” causes trauma, deepens internalized ableism, and increases the likelihood of suicide among autistic individuals.* Advocates argue for prioritizing autistic voices, acceptance, and accommodations over pursuing outdated "cure" models rooted in colonialist and eugenic ideologies.* They propose alternative investments in teacher training, special education staff (especially autistic educators), sensory rooms, and class support animals as more beneficial for autistic students.* The episode highlights the burnout faced by autistic advocates constantly fighting these battles, emphasizing the need for community support and shared advocacy workload.* A call to action is issued to organize and counter the proposed bill (HCR 51) before it advances, stressing the importance of connecting autistic-led organizations and advocates.* The podcast affirms that autism is an integral part of identity, not a disease to be eliminated, advocating for ethical, compassionate support focused on authentic quality of life for autistic individuals.What kind of neurodiversity-affirming supports would have helped you in school? 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:Kentucky House concurrent Resolution 51 House of Representatives in KentuckyKentucky Advisory Council on Autism Mandatory ABA lived-experience - ABA Abuse Traumatizes Autistic Teen (A First Hand Account)The Great Big ABA Opposition Resource ListMilton’s Double Empathy StudyScholarly article: A systematic review and meta-analysis of suicidality in autistic and possibly autistic people without co-occurring intellectual disabilityScholarly article: Death by Suicide Among People With Autism: Beyond ZebrafishVideo: The Sensory Room: Helping Students With Autism Focus and LearnKentucky House Standing Committee - EducationWinter’s website: Translunar AcademyFind Winter’s advocacy group: Autistics United Kentucky Facebook and InstagramOther episodes to check out if you liked this one:Episode 36: Bad Autism DiagnosisEpisode 20: Sesame Street is AutisticEpisode 24: The Trouble with TempleReady 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

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

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

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