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An episode that schools you!
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* Today, our hosts tackle a complex subject: ableism and its manifestation within the world of academia.
* Our special guest, Kat Flora, joins our hosts to share her firsthand experiences with ableism in academia and how it shaped her journey.
* Matt and Kat delve into their experiences of navigating difficult interactions with neurotypicals in academia, as well as managing the challenges of burnout.
* The conversation transitions to addiction and alcoholism, exploring how autistic individuals may be more predisposed to these challenges.
* This episode addresses a critical issue: the importance of autistic individuals being present in these spaces to drive change from within, while also emphasizing the need for self-care to avoid burnout.
* Autistic individuals in academia often encounter triggering challenges, such as being required to study behaviorism, which is inherently harmful to autistic people, and feeling pressured to agree with neurotypical misconceptions about autism just to secure a passing grade.
* Matt, Angela, and Kat discuss the dehumanizing experience of being autistic in a classroom where the information taught about autism often misrepresents or contradicts their lived experiences.
* Our hosts explore strategies for overcoming academic gatekeepers and navigating barriers to create meaningful change within academia.
* We discuss the current state of disability services at universities, highlighting the gaps and areas that need improvement to better support autistic and disabled students in their academic journeys.
“In order to become a person who diagnoses autism, if you are autistic, you have to take a whole bunch of classes where you learn a whole bunch of things that are not true about yourself by people who know a lot less and not kill them or end up in jail.” - Angela
“So this is the thing. Number one, people who come into academia, people who want to do this job are taught wrong. Number two, if you are an autistic person who is doing this, you either have to eat a lot of s**t and say yes, I am a malformed human, or - you argue with people, and people don’t like to be argued with.” - Matt
“In order to change a system, you have to be conforming enough for the gatekeepers to look you over and let you in. And then you can f**k s**t up.” - Matt
In this episode, we dive into the pervasive issue of ableism in academia. From the challenges of navigating inaccurate teachings about autism to the dehumanizing impact of neurotypical misconceptions, we discuss the struggles autistic individuals face in these spaces. We also explore the importance of self-care, avoiding burnout, and how autistic people can create change from within academic institutions. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments, and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!
Show Notes:https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.727542/full https://a.co/d/gfur0Rn - The Autistic Postgraduate Woman: Navigating the Neurotypical University Paperback – Sophie Pillips
https://memory-alpha.fandom.com/wiki/Rite_of_Ascension Kat Flora on Instagram (www.Instagram.com/kat__flora)
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An episode that rolls the dice on a favorite autistic pastime!
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* In this episode, Matt and Angela dive into the world of board games—a beloved pastime within the autistic community.
* Did you know that, according to research, only 1% of neurotypicals enjoy board games, compared to 7% of autistic individuals? This fascinating statistic highlights how board games resonate as a unique and cherished hobby within the autistic community.
* Autistic individuals often gravitate toward board games because of their clear structure, logical rules, and engaging systems.
* Board games are often seen as a form of "social lubricant," providing a structured way to interact and connect with others in a comfortable and low-pressure environment.
* Moreover, board games are often recommended for fostering autism-affirming social skills, providing a structured and enjoyable way to practice communication, collaboration, and turn-taking.
* Our hosts explore the different types of board games—ranging from logic-based games like Catan and bottom-up processing-heavy games like Munchkin, to Star Wars-related and adjacent games, and beyond.
* Games help autistic individuals with the concept of turn-taking by providing clear structure. In most board games, it is easy to see when your turn begins and ends, what actions you can take, and the order in which you can do them.
* These clearly defined objectives, roles, and turns help provide stability to our brains, creating a predictable environment that can reduce anxiety and improve focus.
* We discuss the close alignment between SPINs (Special Interests) and board games, exploring how both help us achieve monotropic focus, leading to improved emotional regulation.
* In addition, we also discuss the emotional aspects of board games, focusing on how they help teach fairness and honesty through structured interactions and clear rules.
* Games provide autistic brains with the pattern recognition we crave, offering a healthy outlet that helps prevent doomscrolling or catastrophizing, and instead fosters positive focus and engagement.
* Board games can bring out the best in us autistic folks, serving as a way to connect through our SPINs and transform our tendency to catastrophize into a positive, focused experience.
* In addition, board games are sensory fun and stimtastic, offering a tactile and engaging experience that can be both soothing and stimulating for autistic individuals.
* Board games offer a structured, sensory-rich experience that fosters social skills, emotional regulation, and focus, while providing a healthy outlet for pattern recognition and creativity, all while allowing autistic individuals to connect with their SPINs and engage in stimulating, enjoyable play.
“They [board games] will be at the game night and there’s reduced social pressure. There’s a shared focus. There’s less anxiety because especially if you know the game, the goal is to play the game and then if you meet people, awesome.” - Angela
“So if you want to meet new people [through board games], it’s so much better to meet them when you are emotionally regulated and you know what the rules are. Not to say you won’t have a meltdown because meat bodies and phone calls and text messages and who knows, but you’ve got a better chance of meeting someone as your best self.” - Angela
“The intricacy of the names of the moves and the artistry of chess, that is a purely autistic creation.” - Angela
In this episode, we delve into the unique role board games play within autistic culture. From their structured rules and logical systems to their ability to foster social connection in a comfortable way, we discuss why board games hold a special place in the community. Thanks for tuning in! Share your favorite board game moments in the comments and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!
Show Notes:
Full presentation: Autism and board games, presentation by ...YouTube · Game in Lab - supporting game research4 Jun 2024
Board Gaming on the Spectrum - Liam Cross, Edge Hill ...YouTube · Game in Lab - supporting game research27 Jan 2021
https://autism.org/how-games-can-help-teach-social-skills/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/creating-connection/202012/how-games-can-help-children-the-autism-spectrum
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38967700/
Baby Fish Mouth - Pictionary scene from 'When Harry Met Sally'vixsta11186.7K+ views · 13 years ago
1986 MB "The Real Ghostbusters" 3D Board Game Review.YouTube · ELKFILMZ25 Apr 2019
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Manglende episoder?
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An episode that schools you.
Hello, I am a listener of your podcast and an undiagnosed autistic. My 12 year old daughter is a diagnosed autistic who has had some traumatic experiences in the educational system since they use the medical model of autism. She is very likely twice exceptional (our school has no gifted program to offer her), but she thinks that her brain is broken because so many things are hard. She probably also has social anxiety. I am writing to ask if you and Angela would consider doing a short podcast episode aimed at teens and tweens about the wonderful ways their brains work, what autistic culture is, why it is so hard to fit into mainstream culture/school, how to make it a little better now, and how it can become SO much better later, especially once you find friends who you click with. She feels pretty hopeless at the moment, and does not have any friends to rely on yet. Thank you for reading.
- Autistic Culture Listener
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* In today’s episode, Matt and Angela explore a fan-suggested topic: autism culture for teens and tweens. They discuss ways to support an autistic teen who might be facing challenges at school and struggling to fit in.
* The education system can feel like a nightmare for autistic youth, often prioritizing conformity and uniformity over individuality.
* Our hosts discuss the challenges of transitioning between subjects in school while also navigating the complexities of an unspoken social hierarchy.
* Neurotypicals often view autism as a one-dimensional disability, focusing solely on the challenges while overlooking the strengths and positive aspects that come with it. They tend to ignore the creativity, unique perspectives, and valuable contributions autistic individuals bring to the table.
* Neurotypicals often follow the lead of a dominant figure, so if middle school girls crown Julie from second period as the queen bee, she effectively dictates who’s cool or uncool, what to wear, and the entire social hierarchy—creating a challenging environment for autistic individuals to navigate.
* Young autistic children often view adults as equals and believe respect means treating everyone equally. However, someone like Julie expects to be treated as a leader or boss, not an equal—creating conflicts within the neurotypical social hierarchy.
* Autistic young boys are often given more freedom to be eccentric, while autistic girls are expected to blend in and keep the peace, conforming to societal expectations.
* As a child, you have less control over your environment—things like your school schedule or what’s packed in your lunch are often out of your hands. This lack of control can easily lead to dysregulation.
* We discuss masking in middle and high school, and how approaching it like a Jane Goodall-esque cultural research experiment—observing neurotypicals as if they were a different species—can be a helpful strategy.
* We talk about finding ways to accommodate your body while at school, even if it doesn’t look or function the same as everyone else’s.
* To all the neurodivergent and autistic kids out there: You’ve got to push through this, because adulthood gets better. Find the weirdos, your people, in school—because they’re out there, and they’ll make all the difference.
* Self-discovery is crucial as a young person, as it lays the foundation for living as a healthy, authentic autistic adult.
* We don’t change the world by being average—we change it by being ourselves. We owe it to the people who challenged the system, the weirdos of the world, to do the same.
“This is why neurotypicals can’t understand autism - because they say, ‘well, I met an autistic person once and you don’t look like them.’ No, because every autistic person is wired differently. The commonality is just that we have lightning brains that are hyper-connected. And this is the reason why there’s a very, very high overlap between autism and giftedness because of the hyper-connected brain.” - Angela
“If you’re a kid who spends your lunch period hanging out in the library talking with the school librarian, you’re a bottom-up processor. If you hang out talking to the janitor, you’re a bottom-up processor. If you go to the teacher and say, ‘Hello, I brought my stack of Pokemon cards because you mentioned that you were in to Pokemon cards in the 90’s, you’re a bottom-up processor.” - Matt
“That’s the difference between masking to be a good girl and fit in and this is how you’re going to act by practicing this, it’s going to come naturally to you. No, it’s not. But if you mask to get through the class and you’re doing it from that Jane Goodall perspective of like, this is a research project, you can preserve a little bit of your sanity.” - Angela
“I don’t understand the concept of high school reunions because the people that I want to see, I stayed in contact with the entire time. I’m not going back to say, ‘yes, I’m 45 and I knew you people when I was 17 and 18. I’ve lived literally an entire life since then. It’s like going back to the 1800’s and being reincarnated and saying, ‘yes, the butter churning sure was an excellent time, was it not?’” - Matt
“You’re going to attract the boring people. You’re going to be put in situations that compromise your integrity. You’re going to be put in situations that make you compromise your morals. The more you compromise yourself, the more dangerous the world becomes. You need to find the people who will support and love the real you. And if you have to do this under the radar, then by all means do it. But be aware that you do have the cape. You must wear it underneath the costume.” - Matt
“Just because they’re in the majority, doesn’t mean that they shape the world. You are in a better position to make the world a better place just by having existed in it. You are going to be memorable. The average people are not going to be memorable.” - Matt
In this episode, we dive into the challenges and nuances of autism culture for teens and tweens. From navigating school transitions and unspoken social hierarchies to finding ways to fit in while staying true to themselves, we discuss how to support autistic teens through these pivotal years. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation using #AutisticCultureCatch on social media. What resonated with you in this discussion? Let us know!
Show Notes:
Galaxy High - Ep 1 Welcome to Galaxy High - 1986 CartoonYouTube · DRamos520 Mixed Music & Video24 Mar 2023The Muppets (2011 film)Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org › wiki › The_Muppets_(2011_...
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An episode that really pulls at the threads!
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* In today’s episode, we’re joined by special guest Hunter Hammersen, a self-proclaimed weirdo who traded grad school for the cozy world of knitting patterns!
* Hunter realized, in true autistic style, that following others' instructions wasn’t for her. So, she began creating her own designs and writing patterns—a perfect fit for the world of knitting!
* Our special guest kicks things off by sharing how knitting beautifully combines a stim, a special interest, and a sensory experience—making it a truly delightful and engaging activity!
* Knitting offers a socially acceptable way to stim while also serving as a shared interest that can help you connect with fellow autistic knitting enthusiasts.
* The beauty of knitting lies in its wonderfully literal nature—turning yarn and two sticks into something tangible, like a sweater—while seamlessly engaging autistic bottom-up processing.
* We dive into yarn stashes and explore how it’s totally possible to form an emotional attachment to your yarn—each skein holding its own special meaning!
* As a natural-born, bottom-up processor, you’re able to notice the details that others might miss—like distinguishing a soft, high-quality yarn from a scratchy one you might find at Joann Fabrics.
* We discuss how knitting can serve as a powerful form of regulation, helping to soothe and center the mind while providing a sense of control and calm.
* Our hosts and Hunter dive into the diverse types and textures of yarn, sharing tips on how to choose the perfect one to suit your sensory needs.
* We also explore the connection between knitting and social justice, discussing how politics are deeply intertwined (no pun intended) within the craft.
* Finally, we highlight the therapeutic benefits of knitting, from its calming effects and sensory satisfaction to its role in fostering community and driving social change.
About Hunter Hammersen
Hunter Hammersen is a self-described weirdo who dropped out of grad school (ABD in the history of science and medicine) to run off and write knitting patterns. “Because somehow when I was in school I thought 'I should take up knitting, that seems soothing,' then realized I could not stand following other people's instructions and so started making up things of my own, and then started writing my own patterns when folks liked what I made. Then I turned it into a business. Because I realized I could run that business at home in my pajamas and never ever ever have to teach an 8:30am history class to a room full of undergrads who do not want to be there.”
In the fifteen years since she started doing this, she has written and published a dozen books, wrote hundreds and hundreds of patterns, and built up an audience of knitters. These days they hang out on Patreon and she teaches them about whatever new thing catches her interest. Knitting patterns yes, but lately she’s been branching out into other things too.
“I am the flavor of autistic where I have a lot of sensory issues. If my clothes are wrong, I want you to die. If I have to touch the wrong texture, the world will end. And knitting is wonderful because whatever your version of a good texture is, you can put it on your hands. And then you get to wiggle your hands around in these lovely little repetitive movements. And you can do it in public with relatively little social difficulty. ” - Hunter Hammersen
“I like these levels better than the ones in the DSM. Level one is just knitting 10 to 12 hours a week. Level two, making your own yarn. Level three, raising sheep. These are levels that I can live with.” - Angela
“Knitting is a really nice little bridge to get a tiny bit more in your body, because it’s this thing that you’re doing with your hands and you get to touch it and you get to sit there and pet it and it’s this soft, fuzzy, wonderful thing. And it helps if I am feeling particularly scattered or particularly outraged.” - Hunter Hammersen
In this episode, we delve into the unique ways knitting can benefit autistic people, exploring how it supports sensory needs, executive functioning, and self-expression. We discuss autism-friendly approaches to organizing your knitting projects, the challenges of starting and completing patterns, and how creating personalized knitting systems can foster stability and joy. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What resonated with you about this discussion? Let us know!
Show Notes:
Website: https://tinynonsense.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HunterHammersen
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/tinynonsense
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Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
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Our Autism-affirming 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 -
An episode that sorts it all out.
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* First, our hosts talk about executive functioning, how its inherent lack can negatively impact autistic individuals, and why implementing personalized organizational systems is essential to keeping your executive function manageable.
* Autism is a dynamic disability influenced by many variables—our perception of things, how regulated we are, how much we have on our plate, and more. The more chaos we face, the less executive functioning we tend to have.
* We discuss the autistic hell that is moving and how it can take up to a month of processing time to fully regain executive functioning afterward.
* It’s crucial to have your own organized space to avoid emotional dysregulation. When things feel chaotic, it becomes harder to manage emotions and function effectively, but a structured environment provides the stability needed to stay grounded.
* From scissor organizers to the perfect Command hook, discovering the right organizational tools is truly satisfying—but we first need to know they exist.
* We talk about the organizational and autistic heaven that is IKEA — despite the occasional stress of assembling their furniture.
* Our hosts discuss the lack of autophagy in autistic people and how it makes the use of behaviorism as the top treatment ironic, as it doesn’t benefit us in any meaningful way.
* Matt and Angela discuss autism-specific ways of organizing items (by genre, by color, by whether your mug is a Star Wars mug or a Lego mug, et cetera), and how general neurotypical organizational methods don’t always benefit or serve us.
* Anything that makes your life easier is essential to healthy autistic living—and crucial for preserving our spoons.
* When we lose or misplace things as autistic people, our brains can become dysregulated and shift into survival mode—making organizational systems essential for us to maintain stability.
* Matt and Angela also discuss solutions for long-term storage and the discomfort caused by shows like Storage Wars, which can create a sense of trauma around putting things into storage—making it feel like we’re abandoning our possessions.
* If you can optimize your organizational systems now, it will save you stress, preserve your spoons, and protect your health and energy. It's an important investment in yourself.
“Autism is a dynamic disability, and it is based on all the stuff that happens - our dysregulation, our neurological perception of things, & how much stuff we’re going through at any given time. So the more chaos we have to do, the more variables we have to account for, the less executive functioning we’re going to have.” - Matt [paraphrased from original quote by Neurodiversely Unbroken]
“Organization, when you have it, is being in tune with the universe. With bottom-up processing, I picture the entire universe as being like clockwork, right? One variable impacts another variable impacts another variable. It’s the whole butterfly effect, right?” - Matt
“We are not a people known for our tolerance for ambiguity. We do not like the limbo. The limbo drains us because again, we’re constantly calculating the variables and trying to figure stuff out and trying to solve the problem in our brain, but it doesn’t reflect our environment. No matter how much we think about it, we actually have to get the energy to do it.” - Matt
“When I stress out and I can’t find something, I lose hours and hours. I struggle with time blindness. I miss appointments all the time, things I’m very excited about. And then all of a sudden I’ll look at the clock and two hours have gone by and I missed something that I was supposed to be doing. That happens when I lose things, when I can’t find things, when I’m dysregulated.” - Angela
“If you optimize every single room and make your life better, you will get spoons back. You will have fewer arguments with partners. You will have the energy to go out with a friend. You will have fewer stomach aches. There are ways that you can make your life better that are not that expensive. And that investment will pay back so many times.” - Angela
In this episode, we discuss the importance of organization for autistic people, exploring autism-specific organizational strategies, the challenges of executive functioning, and how personalized systems can make a huge difference in maintaining stability. Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with other listeners on social media. What resonated with you from this discussion? Let us know!
Related Shows:Sunglasses Are Autistic
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Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
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Our Autism-affirming merch shop
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An Episode That Unwraps the Dark, Autistic Charm of Krampus
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* Our hosts, Matt and Angela, kick off this episode by looking back on the tumultuous year of 2024—highlighting challenges like health emergencies, unexpected relocations, and the transitions that accompanied them.
* Next, we delve into the origins of Krampus—the shadowy counterpart to Santa Claus—who intriguingly exhibits some distinctly autistic traits.
* Krampus can be seen as something of an autistic icon, as he shares a common dislike for the chaos of the holidays—such as loud noises, disruptions to routines, surprises, and sudden changes in plans—much like many autistic individuals.
* Matt and Angela take a moment to explore autistic-coded (and explicitly autistic) Halloween media, such as Dead Like Me and Trick 'r Treat, which serves as a perfect segue into their discussion about Krampus.
* Michael Dougherty's 2015 film Krampus centers around a boy from a dysfunctional family who, in a moment of frustration, wishes to be rid of them. Krampus hears his wish and descends upon the family, unleashing havoc and terror to teach them a dark and twisted lesson about the importance of holiday spirit and unity.
* We touch on other autistic holiday icons, like the Grinch, who struggles with social interactions and sensory overload, and Charlie Brown, an autistic character navigating the holidays, written by an autistic man.
* We discuss Christmas movies that aren’t technically Christmas movies but incorporate Christmas elements and themes—like Die Hard, Home Alone, and Gremlins. We also dive into the iconic Christmas film Violent Night, starring David Harbour, exploring its unique take on holiday storytelling and its blend of action, humor, and festive spirit.
* Our hosts delve into Christmas's origins as the Feast of Saturnalia in ancient Roman times and explore how ghost stories have long been a cherished part of early Christmas traditions.
* Matt and Angela dive into a discussion about Charles Dickens, why he sucks, and why The Muppet Christmas Carol stands out as the superior adaptation of the classic holiday tale.
* Winter and Christmas are, both metaphorically and literally, the darkest season. To counter this, we bring in light—stringing up festive lights, visiting Christmas displays, and celebrating brightness in the midst of the darkness. However, the dark side of Christmas absolutely deserves to be seen and acknowledged, as it provides essential balance and depth to the season's narrative.
* Finding moments of happiness during this season can be both challenging and meaningful. There’s value in embracing the season’s darker aspects: revisiting ghostly tales, enjoying eerie holiday films, and acknowledging the shadows that make the light shine brighter.
“Look, some years you need to be able to say, ‘Well, I might be home alone and depressed this Christmas, but at least I’m not being dragged off, beaten with birch sticks, and taken to hell. Even though it might feel that way sometimes.” - Angela
“Krampus tells you all kinds of stuff. You just have to have the spirit of Krampus within you.” - Matt
“That’s the thing, you know - Christmas happens during the Winter Solstice, during the longest, darkest nights of the year. When all hope seems lost, the crops are dead, and the world is incredibly cold and unforgiving. And, if you go outside, you might die. You might legit die.” - Matt
“[Fighting the darker side]… that’s a big thing for us autistics because a lot of us face these struggles - especially when it’s promoted as, you know, everybody’s having a great time, everybody is happy. No, no, we are fighting our way through the darkness. We are fighting our way through the winter.” - Matt
In this episode, we explore navigating the holiday season as an autistic person, touching on sensory-friendly strategies, embracing the darker side of Christmas traditions, and celebrating iconic autistic-coded holiday characters like Krampus and the Grinch. Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with other listeners on social media. What resonated with you from this discussion? Let us know!
Show notes:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus_(film)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krampus
Trick R Treat - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trick_%27r_Treat
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An episode that reshapes holiday traditions.
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* In today's episode, we explore how to have a joyful neurodivergent Christmas by prioritizing your needs and letting go of expectations.
* We discuss how autistics rely on routines, and how the holidays can disrupt them, leading to dysregulation and chaos.
* Matt and Angela dive into how Hallmark movies portray the stereotypical, picture-perfect version of Christmas—a version that often feels far removed from reality, especially for autistics. They explore how these idealized depictions can create unrealistic expectations and fail to consider the unique ways neurodivergent individuals experience the holiday season.
* We talk about how, since autism is genetic, many people in the household during the holidays might also be silently navigating sensory overload while juggling holiday pressures.
* Our hosts discuss the challenges of having family members who are autistic but don’t identify as such or seek a diagnosis, and how this lack of acknowledgment can increase masking for the openly autistic individuals around them.
* Having meltdowns around Christmas doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or unmanageable—as long as you have the right tools in place, like sensory supports or safe people to help you navigate the moment.
* We discuss the importance of advocating for accommodations and using the acceptance of those accommodations—such as turning off the TV, avoiding twinkle lights, or lowering noise levels for sensory reasons—as a baseline for deciding whether or not to attend holiday gatherings.
* We also discuss how unusual and counterintuitive it is for autistics that physical touch, like hugging and kissing relatives, is so heavily emphasized during the holidays. We also dive into how odd—and frankly creepy—it is that kids are expected to sit on a mall Santa’s lap and share their secrets.
* Having a comfort kit is essential for an autistic person during the holidays—packed with stim toys, eye masks, comfort blankets, and other items to support sensory regulation.
* We talk about Matt's Christmas Dragon tradition, which he created with his son, and the importance of crafting personalized family traditions that cater to your sensory and emotional regulation needs.
* Matt and Angela discuss the importance of setting and enforcing boundaries at holiday events, including creating a plan to leave early if overstimulation occurs or if the situation calls for it.
* We discuss the autistic tendency to be thoughtful gift-givers, as we often pay close attention to and deeply consider people's interests when selecting presents.
* Holidays can be especially challenging for autistic people because we're not always able to access our safe foods. We discuss autistic food rules around the holidays, emphasizing that you don’t have to eat the family meal if it’s unbearable for you. Sometimes, a McNugget platter might be the best food tradition to introduce in an autistic household.
* Self-care strategies during the holidays are vital for autistic people. We share some strategies that might work for you, including creating a list of holiday comfort shows and movies, using Christmas-themed comfort blankets and candles, and doing the planning work to ensure your holiday aligns with your needs and preferences.
“So, if you’re listening to this on the day it’s released, you have somehow survived Thanksgiving if you celebrate. And now there is Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, the day after Christmas, Boxing Day. There’s still all of the New Year’s expectations. And then there’s this entire week or two off school, which, if you’re a parent, you have your children at home and still have to figure out how to work. So everything is jumbled and out of order. If you’re somebody who has created a life and a schedule to minimize sensory interruptions and other jilted expectations, the holidays are here to f**k with that.” - Angela
“We are told what Christmas is, but yet there are an infinite number of variables that impact upon that. Everything from credit card debt to the thing that you’re supposed to buy, you can’t find.” - Matt
“Create a safety plan, do self-care because honestly, the gauntlet between Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, and Valentine’s Day is just this long stretch of psychological horror.” - Matt
In today’s episode, we dive into navigating the holiday season as an autistic person, focusing on how to manage sensory overload, advocate for accommodations, and create a comfortable environment. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What tips or insights from the episode will help you this holiday season?
Resources:
Jade Farrington’s Community Guide to a Happy Neurodivergent Christmas
https://subscribepage.io/tO5Rvl
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An episode that breaks the mold!
Here’s what’s to come in this episode:
* We kick off this episode by discussing Courtney Love and her candid acknowledgment of her autism in a 1994 Rolling Stone interview. While she’s open about her experiences, some of her language is problematic—for instance, referring to non-speaking autism as "introverted."
* However, we delve into how many of the judgments and perceptions surrounding Courtney Love may be rooted in ableism, influenced by her autism diagnosis.
* We explore the inherent connection between musical subcultures and autism, highlighting how these spaces can become a refuge for those who feel ostracized elsewhere.
* Next, we dive into the powerful intersection between punk ethos and neurodivergence, unpacking how these two worlds resonate deeply with shared values and traits. Punk celebrates nonconformity, rejecting the rigid societal expectations and hierarchies that often marginalize neurodivergent individuals. It embraces the idea that standing up for what you believe in—no matter how unconventional—is a strength, not a flaw.
* This ethos aligns with the autistic experience of navigating a world that frequently misunderstands or undervalues difference. Punk fosters a sense of belonging by creating a community for misfits—a safe haven for those who’ve been excluded or overlooked in more traditional spaces. In this way, punk and neurodivergence together challenge norms, celebrate authenticity, and amplify the voices of those too often silenced.
* Realizing you are neurodivergent doesn’t erase your punk identity—it deepens it. Subculture isn’t just about aligning with a particular music scene or fashion; it’s a gateway to discovering and embracing your most authentic self.
* We also discuss how loud music, often a hallmark of punk, can be soothing and sensory-stimulating for many of us on the autism spectrum.
* Punk and punk-era band names are often defined by connotations of violence, aggression, sex, fetishism, turmoil, and eruption, with many even referencing disability. This rebellious language reflects the feelings of being "othered"—a sensation that resonates deeply with the autistic experience. Just as punk challenges societal norms and embraces marginalization, the association with disability within punk culture highlights how both the neurodivergent community and the subculture at large confront rejection, discrimination, and the struggle to be understood.
* Punk intertwines with the refusal to be seen through the neurotypical lens, rejecting the pressure to conform to societal expectations. It’s about resisting the influence of outside forces and voices that seek to define who you are, instead embracing self-expression and authenticity on your own terms.
* We also discuss how body modifications, like tattoos and piercings, play into this idea of reclaiming autonomy and defying societal norms. For many in the punk and neurodivergent communities, these mods serve as a powerful way to express individuality, resist outside judgment, and celebrate personal identity on their own terms.
* We discuss how autism is often framed through neurotypical-centric lenses, such as infantilization, pity, and the "superhero" trope, which limit our agency and self-expression. Punk, however, challenges these narratives by reclaiming our power and refusing to let society define or diminish us.
* Punk embraces an anti-aesthetic that celebrates imperfections, rejecting the need for polished or conventional beauty standards. This ties directly to autism, as both challenge societal expectations of "perfection" and instead embrace authenticity, quirks, and individuality.
* The culture of punk is, at its core, authenticity without apology—and that’s exactly what autistic people desire: spaces and cultures where they can be their true selves without the need to mask or conform.
“When I talk about being introverted, I was diagnosed autistic. At an early age, I would not speak. Then I simply bloomed. My first visit to a psychiatrist was when I was like three. Observational therapy, TM for Tots, you name it, I’ve been there.” - Courtney Love (the one and only!!)
“You [an autistic person] can’t just go into a space and say, ‘yes, I am perfectly at home here.’” No, you have to change it to fit your needs. And that’s fairly punk, because punk doesn’t show up and say, ‘yes, this is acceptable.’ No, we are going to rage against the machine.” - Matt
“Yes, we want you, you misfit toys, to fit in perfectly here. You are a part of our merry band of autistics and you are perfect just the way you are.” - Angela
“Yes, punk is saying we are different and that’s enough, like we are enough and this f*****g sucks at the same time. It’s not saying, like, ‘fix me’, necessarily. It’s saying, ‘this is my identity.’” - Angela
Did you notice the connection between punk, subculture, and the autistic experience? In today’s episode, we explore how punk’s defiance and authenticity reflect the autistic spirit. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which parts of the punk ethos resonated most with you?
Resources:
Rolling Stone article where Courtney comes out - https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/courtney-love-life-without-kurt-81520/
Interview with Courtney where she talks about her diagnosis
Autisticasfxxk - Raise your middle finger to neuronormativity! 🖕🖕🏿🖕🏾🖕🏽🖕🏼🖕🏻
For Autistic punks, rebels and misfits forging their own path in a neurotypical world.
https://www.autisticasfxxk.com/blog/autistic-punk/
McKay, George, 'Punk Rock and Disability: Cripping Subculture', in Blake Howe, and others (eds), The Oxford Handbook of Music and Disability Studies (2015; online edn, Oxford Academic, 2 June 2016), https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199331444.013.23, accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
https://www.additudemag.com/autism-and-music-audhd/
Queer Autistic Punk Playlist:
https://boren.blog/2021/01/25/chronic-neurodivergent-depressed-queer-punk-punk-rock-the-social-model-of-disability-and-the-dream-of-the-accepting-community/
Punk Country - Dash Rip Rock, Treaty Oak Revival (Bar Fight Blues)
Related Episodes:
Chess Is Autistic
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An episode that redefines the perspective.
Here’s what’s to come in this episode:
* In this episode, our hosts address audience requests to explore the often problematic and ambiguous terminology of the DSM-5.
* The DSM-5, often considered the Bible of psychology, tends to pathologize autism and reflect only a neurotypical perspective.
* We discuss the issues with IQ tests, highlighting their ableist nature and why they shouldn’t determine autism diagnoses. We also explore how the DSM’s description of autism overlooks critical aspects, such as proprioceptive difficulties and overlapping medical conditions like POTS, endometriosis, PMDD, and PCOS, as well as how autism is largely hereditary.
* Additionally, we argue that autistic individuals don’t have social deficits but instead exhibit social differences.
* The DSM suggests that autistic people "lack imagination," when in reality, we have a rich internal world—we just express it differently.
* Furthermore, the DSM pathologizes autistic people for speaking passionately and extensively about our special interests—activities and topics that bring us immense joy and fulfillment. Rather than being seen as a positive expression of enthusiasm and deep knowledge, this is unfairly framed as a deficit or abnormal behavior.
* In this episode, we tackle the issue of psychologists and mental health professionals dismissing autistic women’s accounts of their own symptoms.
* We also explore the various forms of stimming and routines, delving into why these practices provide comfort and security for autistic individuals.
* Routines and expectations offer comfort to overwhelmed autistic individuals, as our brains process 42% more information at rest compared to neurotypical brains.
* Finally, we discuss SPINs (Special Interests), which ones are considered socially "appropriate," and the unique sense of joy and fulfillment they bring—experiences that neurotypicals often cannot fully understand or access.
* Lastly, we reflect on how the DSM portrays autism primarily through the lens of its impact on neurotypicals, rather than focusing on the internal experiences of autistic individuals. This perspective neglects the depth of autistic joy, fulfillment, and individuality, especially as seen through SPINs and other unique aspects of autistic life.
“If you have depression, yeah, you probably don’t want that depression. You probably want the depression to go away. But with autism, it’s a neurotype. There are a lot of ableists and a lot of people who have internalized ableism who say, ‘I’m different and I don’t wanna be different. I wanna be like everybody else - but that’s a whole self-esteem problem.” - Matt
“The more stressed you are, the more neurotypicals around you are going to ask, ‘Hey, are you autistic or something?’ Yes, yes I am, thanks for asking.” - Matt
Did you notice how today’s episode challenges and reframes the DSM criteria for autism? We dive deep into this transformative discussion about shifting perspectives! Thanks for tuning in—share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which insights or moments resonated with you the most?
Resources:
https://www.mattlowrylpp.com/blog/reframing-dsm-autism-criteria
https://www.mattlowrylpp.com/meme-gallery
Related Episodes:
Bad Autism Diagnosis
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An episode that's the best at being The Worst!
Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:
* In this episode, Matt and Angela delve into one of Angela's comfort shows, the FX series You're the Worst, exploring the aspects that make it inherently autistic.
* You're the Worst, as Matt describes it, is about a group of individuals navigating life and doing the best they can despite enduring significant trauma (all while exuding strong autistic vibes).
* Matt and Angela dive deep into character analyses of the show, uncovering autism-coded traits such as the prevalence of PTSD, sleep apnea, aversion to gender stereotypes, and other neurodivergent characteristics.
* Matt discusses the characters of Becca and Vernon, highlighting how their exaggeratedly stereotypical neurotypical behavior borders on cartoonish.
* In contrast, we dive into Jimmy's character with an in-depth analysis. He relies on scripting, struggles with relationships, exhibits behaviors shaped by trauma, and is deeply autistic-coded.
* Our hosts explore the dichotomy of autistic experiences, discussing how the feeling of being misunderstood is a common thread for autistic individuals, much like what is portrayed through Jimmy's character.
* We explore Jimmy's relationship with Gretchen on the show, discussing how they navigate their respective traumas to build a relationship that works uniquely for them.
* Because sometimes being the worst is exactly what makes us the best—autistic vibes and all!
“We put up these giant barriers when we’re traumatized. We become very avoidant of forming bonds with people. We actively push people away because we might get to have them and lose them.” - Matt (on navigating autistic interpersonal relationships)
“We live in a world where non-traumatized autistics are not common. Just because we try desperately every day to fit into a world that is not made for us, where we try to adapt, where we burn out, where we push ourselves past our natural limits in order to do what is expected of us because otherwise, we have self-esteem issues, and we blame ourselves for not being good enough.” - Matt
Did you catch all the nuanced dynamics in You're the Worst? In today’s episode, we dive deep into its autistic-coded brilliance! Thanks for listening! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fans on social media. Which characters or moments resonated with you the most?
Resources:
Related Episodes:
Community Is Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
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Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
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Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming merch shop
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Unraveling the origins—this episode speaks volumes!
Here’s what’s to come in today’s episode:
* In this episode, our hosts delve into the Takiwātanga meme—a popular social media trend often showcasing stunning Polynesian women and claiming that Takiwātanga is the Māori word for autism, meaning "in their own time and space."
* Our hosts trace the origins of this meme, revealing that while the term’s creator is neurotypical, his intentions were genuinely positive. Kari O’Pai, a Māori linguist, developed the term Takiwātanga as part of a project aimed at depathologizing mental health terminology in the Māori language.
* O'Pai's glossary was designed to curate terms for mental health, disability, and addiction that avoid pathologization, with the goal of fostering a positive and empowering indigenous Māori worldview.
* Our hosts explore how well-meaning neurotypicals often attempt to romanticize or exoticize autism by introducing alternative terms—while many autistics simply prefer to use the actual word to describe themselves.
* Matt and Angela discuss labels, how we relate to them, and why person-first language can be harmful to autistics.
* We also explore how colonizer language inevitably pathologizes everyone—except white people.
* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.
* In this episode, we also discuss support needs and how even neurotypicals require support at times. After all, we are all inextricably human. However, it's the society we live in, with its hyper-independent culture, that demonizes those with support needs.
* We dive into candid discussions about global perspectives on disability, cultural appropriation, identity labels, and how colonialism is inherently b******t.
“I don’t like the idea of any allistic telling me what I have to do, ever. I may have PDA, but I have *especially* selective PDA about allistics telling me how to be autistic. Cause yeah, I will make eye contact if I want to. You can’t make me not make eye contact.” - Matt
“Do we have a fancy word for cancer or broken leg? It’s just f*****g autism. No, it’s just cancer. It’s just broken leg. It’s just autism.” - Angela
“Did you know that even neurotypicals need some support once in awhile? Fancy that, cuz humans. But that’s the thing. We live in such a colonialistic, bastardized society that says ‘lift yourself up by your bootstraps, be hyper-independent all the time, forever, always. And it frowns upon support needs of any kind.” - Matt
Did you notice how the Takiwātanga meme has sparked conversations about autism and language? In today’s episode, we explore its origins, cultural significance, and the impact of alternative terms for autism. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the discussion in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. What insights or perspectives resonated with you the most?
Resources:
https://www.altogetherautism.org.nz/a-time-and-space-for-takiwatanga/
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-40493398
https://www.reddit.com/r/ReoMaori/comments/y84278/is_the_term_takiwatanga_real/
https://www.tereohapai.nz/
https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/autism-perceived-different-cultures/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/tmyndwtmynd/posts/831990382463880/
https://takiwatanga.org.nz/the-story-of-takiwatanga/
Related Episodes:
Labels are Autistic
Careers are Autistic
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An episode that steals the spotlight
Here’s what’s to come in this episode:
* We kick off this episode by raising the curtain on Angela's theater kid lore and spotlighting how neurodiversity and theater make a show-stopping duo.
* Our hosts dive into how being "dramatic" and "attention-seeking"—classic theater kid traits—are often just the shining stars of neurodivergence.
* Other overlaps between theater and neurodivergence include being perceived as pretentious or aloof, unapologetically blunt, and passionately dedicated to one’s interests.
* Theater can serve as a safe haven for autistic individuals because it offers a structured and predictable environment. With everything carefully planned out and scripted, theater eliminates much of the uncertainty that can be overwhelming in everyday social interactions. This level of organization provides clear roles, boundaries, and expectations, allowing autistic folks to express themselves creatively without the stress of improvisation or ambiguity.
* The sense of community found in theater can be profoundly meaningful to autistic individuals. The collaborative nature of productions fosters connections through shared goals and mutual support, creating bonds that feel genuine and purposeful. Additionally, the structure of theater often bypasses small talk, an interaction many autistic people find tedious or uncomfortable. Instead, conversations are focused on the work at hand—scripts, characters, and performances—which can feel far more engaging and meaningful for autistic folks.
* Our hosts discuss how theater provides a healthy outlet for autistic individuals to mask, offering a safe space to navigate social expectations. They explore how typically challenging tasks, like making eye contact, become more manageable within a performance context—since it’s the character, not the individual, taking on these actions.
* Routines, along with clear and visual communication, are key reasons why the structure of theater arts resonates with autistic individuals. The predictability of rehearsals, performances, and cues, combined with visual aids like scripts, stage blocking, and set designs, creates an environment that feels logical and accessible for autistic participants.
* Matt and Angela explore autistic-coded characters in theater, offering insights into their representation while critiquing how some plays lean too heavily on the "neurotypical savior" trope.
* From Leo Bloom in The Producers to Maria in The Sound of Music to Matilda to Elle Woods and Alexander Hamilton, we spotlight theater characters who subtly display autistic traits you might not have noticed before.
* Our hosts delve into Stephen Sondheim’s work, highlighting how his hyper-focus and emotional intensity reflect traits commonly associated with autism.
* Through engaging discussions and thought-provoking examples, this episode celebrates the beautiful intersections between theater and neurodivergence, showing how the stage can be a haven for autistic expression and representation.
“Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people, that’s a very specific number. Being in front of an audience of 500 or 2,890 people is very easy for me. The roles are incredibly clear, logical, and laid out. I am on stage. You are sitting in the seats watching me. I am playing a character and that is what you expect, want, and are paying for. The conversations onstage are scripted and written better than the ones in my real life.” - Matt
“One of my biggest social challenges is I will share a piece of information and it’s so obvious to me what the response is, which is usually something like ‘thank you, that was helpful information, my goodness’. And then the response I get is so different. It might be something like, ‘you’re fired’, or it will be like, ‘thank you’, and then I find out they have told five people I’m a pretentious a*****e. And I’m like, how do these things not match up? But when there’s a script, even if it’s a Kafka play, where things don’t make sense, you see it and it’s fixed in time and it’s going to be logical every time.” - Angela
“I would love for somebody to go up and give me a bullet point brochure: Welcome to the neighborhood. Trash is on this day. You are allowed to have this. This is when this happens. This is when that happens. This is when that happens. I want a schedule. I want knowledge.” - Matt
Have you ever felt the ups and downs of life on the stage? In today’s episode, Matt and Angela dive into how neurodivergent perspectives align with the unique world of theater. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their discussion resonate with your own theater experiences?
Resources:
Jenna Lourenco- www.jennalourenco.com - There is a database there of plays featuring autistic characters and a growing list of openly autistic playwrights in the English-speaking world.
Mickey Rowe Our Differences are Our Strengths: Neurodiversity in Theatre
https://www.americantheatre.org/2015/05/04/the-curious-incidence-of-theatre-on-the-autism-spectrum/
https://howtodanceinohiomusical.com/
Maria from the sound of music - https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZPRETdLCW/
Up Close and Very Personal With The Real Stephen Sondheim
Stephen Sondheim Blackwings Sold at Auction
Blackwing Pencils - https://www.hamiltonpens.com/blogs/articles/the-blackwing-pencil-culture-controversy-and-creativity
*Related Episodes:
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An episode that celebrates neurodivergent creativity in writing.
Here’s what’s write around the corner:
* In this episode, we dive into one of Angela's favorite topics – writing – and explore how to approach creative projects through a neurodivergent perspective.
* Matt and Angela break down the writing process from an autistic perspective, discussing how book mapping can be a powerful tool and why having systems in place for writing a book is just as essential as the systems and contingency plans autistic people rely on for everyday life.
* In this episode, we dive into Angela's writing journey – from crafting stories at ten years old, to working for the government (and unintentionally developing a special interest in espionage), to founding Difference Press and reflecting on her journey to where she is today.
* We also chat about our exclusive virtual writing circle on the paid Substack – where we share weekly prompts and write not for cash, but because writing is cathartic and life-affirming (though we wouldn’t say no to a book deal). Sign up to join the fun – your creative soul (and inbox) will thank you!
* We dive into how the writing process can be a game-changer for hyper-verbal autistic individuals, helping us find our thoughts, gain our footing, and communicate ideas more clearly – because sometimes putting pen to paper is the best way to organize that mental marathon.
* Our hosts discuss how scripting is a core part of the neurodivergent experience and how it can be a powerful tool in shaping our writing process – because sometimes having a script is the key to making sense of the chaos.
* We also dive into how hyper-focus can be a game-changer for the writing process (and how it’s the secret behind Stephen King's impressive book count). When we’re in the zone, there's no stopping us!
* Matt and Angela explore writing as a powerful form of creative expression for neurodivergent individuals, and how it can be incredibly cathartic to write about our special interests, no matter who’s reading. Sometimes, the writing’s for us, not the audience!
* Our hosts also chat about "discovering your author mojo" – which, let’s be real, is just figuring out what conditions make your autistic meat body thrive while writing. Because when the setting’s right, the words flow!
* We also tackle how PDA autism and demand avoidance can sometimes stall our writing projects (ugh), and share some clever workarounds to push past those barriers and get the words flowing again!
* Want to dive deeper into creative writing as an autistic individual? Join our writer's circle by becoming a paid Substack member today!
“If I could just plug a word processor into my brain, I would generate book upon book like Stephen King, but it’s the matter of using my inferior meat body to do this.” - Matt
“This happens with a lot of us - our special interests become a career. Which I think is good, but when it becomes a thing you’re making money on, it changes how you interact with it.”- Angela
“If you want to write more, if you want to be more committed, the way you get better is by writing more. That’s the whole secret.” - Angela
“First of all, there’s no such thing as a good writer. There is probably such a thing as a bad writer, but everybody has their own taste. But even if you genuinely suck and we would all agree you have a million problems with your writing, you’re barely literate. If you find it enjoyable and fulfilling, write anyway.” - Angela
“My take on it is that, while we have a lot of thoughts inside our brain, they’re nebulous and not really defined. But when we are forced to go through with the act of translating it to communicate it to another person, that’s where we truly find our idea.” - Matt
“Fan fiction has to be 80% neurodivergent. There’s just no other way, so. ” - Angela
Have you felt the ups and downs of the creative process? In today’s episode, Matt and Angela dive into their neurodivergent approaches to writing, sharing the unexpected insights and challenges along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. Which moments from their journey resonate with your own creative experiences?
Resources:
Join our virtual writing circle. Details here: https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/p/do-you-have-a-neurodivergent-narrative
*Related Episodes:
George Lucas is Autistic
Eminem is Autistic
Cassandra in Reverse Book Club (Paid Access)
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Serving up an autistic take on Thanksgiving traditions!
Here’s what’s in store for this episode:
* Thanksgiving isn’t always the easiest time for autistic people, with our senses of justice triggered by the holiday’s problematic origins and the need to mask during family gatherings - in this episode, Matt and Angela talk about both navigating Thanksgiving as an autistic person and Mystery Science Theater 3000, a beloved autistic Thanksgiving tradition.
* Matt and Angela explore the origins of Mystery Science Theater 3000 and how interactive TV serves as a beacon for autistic people.
* Our hosts discuss how MST3K emphasizes the concept of found family, a theme that resonates deeply with autistic folks.
* In this episode, we dive into the original Turkey Day marathons on Comedy Central that cemented MST3K as a Thanksgiving tradition, along with the show's turbulent journey across networks, Kickstarter campaigns, and different media platforms.
* Matt and Angela also discuss how MST3K’s bottom-up processing style of comedy makes it especially appealing to autistic folks.
“For 24 hours, you watch really bad movies, you eat some stuffing, they had some new interstitials in there, and you get together with your friends and watch bad movies. Or, if you’re alone, you get together with your friends on TV and watch some bad movies. So you still have some community. You are like Joel, keeping your sanity with the help of your robot friends. And to this day, this is the only Thanksgiving tradition I have.” - Matt
“They just need more funding because, again, they don’t have studio backing. They’re doing it all completely independently. Just like we do it. We are often forced to be independent. We are often traumatically independent because we don’t have that support system around us.” - Matt
“I would rather do something small and funded myself than be beholden to explaining my creative ideas to these people that will never get it. It’s not a problem to explain it. It’s explaining it to people who are gonna drive you crazy.” - Angela
Did you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with the holidays? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Matt and Angela’s autistic take on Thanksgiving and how Mystery Science Theater 3000 offers a perfect comfort break during it all! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights resonate with your own Thanksgiving traditions?
Resources:
https://www.gizmoplex.com/browse
https://shoutfactory.com/collections/mystery-science-theater-3000
https://www.twitch.tv/mst3k
Related Episodes:
Community is Autistic
Dinosaur is Autistic
Poetry is Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
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Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
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An episode that takes on the heavy lifting.
Here’s what’s packed into this episode:
* In this episode, we tackle the autistic hell that is moving — diving into all the intricate details, overwhelming processes, and sharing strategies for coping through it all.
* Our hosts discuss Matt's recent move and explore the time-consuming yet worthwhile systems autistic individuals often need to implement to stay comfortable and regulated in their own homes.
* Matt and Angela dive into the art of emotional regulation and why it's such a foundational task for autistic folks. They also discuss how to incorporate emotional regulation strategies into the moving process as much as possible.
* We discuss the importance of having our own Autistic Survival Packs in each room of the house and how crucial they are for regulation. Angela shares some of her essential items, including eye drops, nail files, phone chargers, and blankets for temperature regulation—a common issue for many autistic individuals.
* In this episode, we also dive into how autistic folks often have a predisposition toward hoarding and emotional attachments to their belongings, and explore ways to break this generational curse.
“As you know, we [autistic people] process 42% more information at rest than neurotypical people. Because of that, our brains are always churning through the data and always looking at the variables. Our brains are much more variable-focused. We’re much more detail-oriented than neurotypical people. Neurotypical people are big-picture people. We are the minutiae. And when it comes to moving, it’s all about the minutiae. ” - Matt
“There’s a lot of stuff that we [autistic folks] don’t have opinions on - but when we do have opinions, we have f*****g strong opinions. And when we find something that just clicks with us, we need it. You need your mattress.” - Matt
“Emotional regulation is our biggest job as autistic people. It’s a full-time job, it’s our number one job. There are going to be times you’re dysregulated. You’re gonna have to go to court, you’re gonna have to go to the DMV, a cop is going to pull you over. You are going to be dysregulated some of the time. And so every single second you can possibly control being emotionally regulated, that’s your job to put first in order.” - Angela
“Well, so this is the thing about the ‘tism, right? Because again, the neurotypicals only know us by our deficits, but we only have the deficits when we’re dysregulated. We only have the deficits when we are out of our element, when we are desperately trying to accommodate everyone else and everything else. We have to do that for us first. And in order to be a functional human being, you need to have that regulation.” - Matt
“Is one of your techniques [for phone calls] is as soon as the phone picks up, I just start screaming ‘agent, agent, agent, f**k you, agent, let me talk to a person, f**k you. Do you do that? Is that your technique? It doesn’t work, but it is my approach.” - Angela
Did you catch the whirlwind of emotions that come with moving? In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into Matt's recent move and all the unexpected hurdles along the way! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights from Matt's story resonate with your own moving experiences?
Resources:
*The* Viral Tiktok Shower Head -
Ziffit - Sell Your Books
Matt’s Favorite Disney Coffee
Related Episodes:
Questlove Is Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
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Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming merch shop
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An episode with flavor!
Here’s what’s to come in today’s episode:
* On today’s episode, Matt and Angela welcome neurodivergent podcaster and Anthony Bourdain aficionado Patrick Casale (he/his) (from the Divergent Conversations podcast) to share a neurodivergent take on the man, the myth, the legend.
* Licensed therapist and neurodivergent podcaster Patrick Casale shares how Anthony Bourdain’s journey—and watching the posthumous film Roadrunner—inspired him to pursue his own autism diagnosis.
* Our hosts chat with Patrick about why so many kitchen staff are likely AuDHD—exploring how restaurant work allows them to unmask, embrace the comfort of parallel play, and thrive in the structured, fast-paced environment that kitchens often demand.
* In this episode, we delve into Bourdain’s special interests—his deep fascination with true crime, and his passion for exploring the cultures and cuisines of the world.
* Did you know? One of Anthony Bourdain’s special interests was writing and reading graphic novels. His staff and crew have even shared that he had just four or five key talking points he’d circle back to time and time again—a classic autistic-coded trait!
* During this episode, we dive into the traits that made Anthony Bourdain resonate so strongly with the autistic community—like his monotropic focus, heightened sensory sensitivity, and his unique approach to building community through travel in deeply nontraditional ways.
“What hit me really hard in this movie especially - and just reading all of his books and watching all the shows and everything that we will probably talk about is like - this deep, painful, lonely existence where he was surrounded by people who really cared about him all the time, but he could not access it. And he talks openly about that experience and how painful it was, how often he wanted to be on the go, experiencing new things while simultaneously feeling like ‘I really need to be in my home. My safe space, with my safe people.’ It was just like this push-pull, constantly.” - Patrick
“I think a lot of kitchen staff and restaurant staff and restaurant staff are definitely ADHD/autistic to some degree/in some capacity, and the kitchen staff specifically tend to be a lot of autistic people. A lot of people feel like they don’t fit in, they feel like misfits, they feel like this is the only place I can really be my true self and really like unmask in a way where everyone around me is experiencing the same thing. And I found that to be so profoundly powerful.” - Patrick
“Listen, I was in Iceland two weeks ago. We absolutely did not eat [fermented shark meat]. It was offered and I said ‘No, thank you’. I didn’t even eat the fish jerky. I do not believe fish is meant to be jerky.” - Angela
“I like the idea of adventure. I want to read about adventure, but when it comes to actually leaving the house, I’d rather be underground eating really good food. But, you know, when a wizard comes along and drags me kicking and screaming on an adventure to fight a dragon, I’m there. It’s one of those things.” - Matt
Did you ever notice how Anthony Bourdain captures the spirit of exploration and authenticity? In today’s episode, we dive deep into his legacy and why his unique perspective resonates so strongly with the autistic community. Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which moments or insights made you see Bourdain in a new light?
Resources:
instagram.com/patrick.casale
allthingspractice.com
divergentpod.com
empoweredescapes.com/retreat
Related Episodes:
McEnroe Is Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming 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 -
An episode that scores!
Here’s the play-by-play for this episode:
* In today’s episode, Matt and Angela sit down with Rick Bryson, one half of the powerhouse team behind Movies with Balls: The Greatest Sports Films of All Time, Analyzed and Illustrated.
* Movies with Balls combines fandom, analysis, and nostalgia, featuring unique illustrations of fantasy ticket stubs, memorabilia, and playmaps. It’s perfect for fans who love revisiting classic sports films and uncovering hidden gems—get ready to “play ball” with a whole new perspective!
* Movies with Balls was inspired by a simple question: what would the tickets from our favorite sports movies look like? From iconic matchups like Rocky vs. Drago to the 2004 Las Vegas Dodgeball Invitational, the book imagines physical, tangible tickets for legendary events we’d love to experience firsthand, beyond the movie theater or living room couch.
* Rick discusses the nostalgic appeal of media artifacts from a bygone era and how this inspired him and co-author Kyle Bandujo to create fantasy tickets—and an entire book filled with them. From kerning and font choices to color design, every detail carries significance.
* Much like how many autistic individuals find meaning in patterns, structure, and subtle details, Movies with Balls celebrates the joy of uncovering these small but important elements in the films we love. The attention to detail in the design of the fantasy tickets mirrors the way autistic people often experience the world—finding deep significance in things that others might overlook. Whether it’s the choice of color, font, or layout, these elements become a way to connect with the media on a deeper, more personal level, just as many autistic people connect with the world through the nuances that make up their unique experiences.
* Speaking of the little details, Rick shares the careful thought he put into designing each ticket stub, ensuring they had realistic crinkles, wrinkles, and stains—making them look as though they had truly been part of the experience.
* Movies with Balls is available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon—get ready to score a copy!
“I think a lot of people just watch the movie and then enjoy the movie and move on. And we [autistic folks] are like, my God, what were the tickets like? What were the chairs like? Were the chairs wider then? Was there more room in the seats? What kind of drinks did they have? Was that original Coke? Did they have Crystal Pepsi at that event? Like we want to know everything, okay. ” - Angela
“These are the teams we love as much as real-life teams. Frankly, we probably love these sports movie teams even more than our real-life teams, because they don’t let us down even postseason.” - Matt
“When a sports movie is done right, nothing can top it. You know, it gives you that big chill moment, makes you want to jump up off the couch and cheer.” - Rick Bryson
“There’s this great line in Seinfeld where I think he’s sitting on a plane and he’s spewing out all this pop culture nonsense to the supermodel and he’s hitting on her. And she’s like, ‘you know a lot about nothing’. And I feel like that’s me and Kyle. We have a database of just worthless stuff that helps us nowhere in the world. And then we found an outlet for it with this book.” - Rick Bryson
Did you notice how Movies with Balls captures the spirit of classic sports films? In today’s episode, we dive deep with co-author Rick Bryson! Thanks for tuning in! Share your thoughts on the conversation in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners on social media. Which scenes or insights gave you that “sports ball” thrill?
Resources:
Movies with Balls: The Greatest Sports Films of All Time, Analyzed and Illustrated
Related Episodes:
McEnroe Is Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming 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 -
An episode that’s more than meets the eye!
Here’s what’s in store for this episode:
* In this episode, Matt gears up for a major info dump, breaking down the origins of the Transformers franchise—turns out, it’s a bot-tastic blend of autism and lore!
* We uncover that there are two canonically autistic Transformers characters—Transmutate and Geomotus. Not only are they explicitly identified as neurodivergent in the franchise, but they also embody classic autistic traits like sensory sensitivity, heightened empathy, naivety, bluntness, and difficulty with conventional social cues.
* Matt and Angela also dive into the work of autistic voice actor Corey Burton, who voiced Shockwave (and also brings the Disneyland monorail and buses to life)! They explore how Shockwave’s character carries autistic coding as well.
* Our two hosts transform the conversation as they explore how the franchise navigates the intersection of gender, sexuality, gender fluidity, and carving out a place in a society that can often feel a bit ableist.
“Shockwave is ultra-logical. Canonically, he has had his emotions removed so he can be more logical. He doesn’t have a face, he just has a light-up eye because you can’t read his facial expressions. Because he has a very flat face, a very flat affect, completely logical. So he is autistic coded from the start, voiced by an autistic actor [Cory Burton]. ” - Matt
“Geomotus is one of Cybertron’s most proficient geologists. A dedicated scientist, he’s happiest when he’s outdoors exploring the vast and ever-changing vistas of his home world, whether that’s spelunking into the sonic canyons or surveying the Rust Sea with the assistance of his onboard radar systems, rather than fighting the Decepticons. Unlike most Cybertronians, Geomotus is neurodivergent. In practice, this means that he’s blunt, occasionally withdrawn, and sometimes struggles with social cues.” - Matt
Did you notice how the Transformers franchise shifts gears to connect with the autistic experience? Roll out your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fans! Which traits revved up your engines in this episode?
Resources:
https://autistic-characters-of-the-day.tumblr.com/post/162050689439/netbug009-autistic-characters-of-the-day/amp
https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Transmutate_(BW)
https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Perceptor_(G1)
https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Geomotus
https://tfwiki.net/wiki/Lost_Light
Related Episodes:
Beauty and the Beast is Autistic
Animation is Autistic
Disney is Autistic
Cats are Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming 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 -
Taking care of business, the autistic way!
Here’s what to expect in this episode:
* In this episode, Matt and Juliette chat with Arielle Juliette (he/him, she/her), owner of Dance Life Studio and Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin. Arielle has created an inclusive space that celebrates neurodivergence and champions autistic advocacy.
* Our hosts dive into a lively chat with Arielle Juliette on building burnout-proof businesses—where setting boundaries and office hours are all part of the rhythm to avoid "dancing on the edge" of exhaustion!
* Arielle joins Matt and Angela to discuss his unexpected success on social media, the surprises of going viral, and the value of a comment moderator. She also shares how supportive comments with mixed intentions can sometimes sting even more than direct hate.
* A key topic in this episode is the intersection of capitalism and neurodiversity, highlighting how neurodivergent individuals in the workplace deserve to have their needs met without having to work harder than others to gain support and recognition.
Arielle Juliette's Bio
Arielle Juliette (he/him, she/her) is the owner and operator of Dance Life Studio and Fitness in Madison, Wisconsin, where she has cultivated a space that celebrates neurodivergence and champions autistic advocacy. With a deep love for dance that began in 2004, he specializes in Egyptian dance and focuses on making movement accessible for all bodies and neurotypes, breaking free from the rigid norms of allistic standards.
As an autistic entrepreneur, Arielle has reimagined what it means to run a business by prioritizing emotional regulation and setting boundaries that support her well-being. He has structured his business to align with his neurotype, including establishing office hours that help prevent burnout, proving that working with who you are can lead to a thriving career. In addition to leading Dance Life Studio, Arielle is also a viral social media creator, where she shares her unmasked, joyful autistic self and promotes the idea that all bodies and minds are worthy.
Through her work, Arielle is a strong advocate for embracing authenticity in both business and life, encouraging others to honor their neurodivergent selves.
“When our energy is gone, we are good to no one. So I must take my time to protect and replenish my energy in order to be of service to the fine folks who have not yet received emails from me. ” - Arielle
“Well, that’s the thing about being autistic itself, because, for a lot of people, you’re not autistic unless an outside observer determines your autism. So we’re not busy unless an outside observer determines whether or not we’re busy, even though mentally we are cycling through the next week or putting things in order or, you know, just to have it going through the autistic inertia of ‘I need to do this, but before I do this, I need to do this. And I need to put this in order in order to be able to do that.’ You’re doing the mental chess necessary. ” - Matt
“Like, I wanna tell all my stories and then I’m like, why do people have to comment? And if you did comment, why didn’t you comment the way I want you to? Now you’re ruining my life.” - Angela
“We’re worthy of being comfortable [in our business] and being paid for our things. And we don’t need to work harder than everybody else. And we deserve to have our needs met in order to give to people, because you asked like, what do we owe?” - Arielle
Did you notice how Arielle’s approach to business embodies the balance between authenticity and advocacy? Dancing to the beat of her own drum and breaking the mold for autistic entrepreneurs, Arielle is proving that success comes when you honor your neurotype. Thanks for joining us! Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow listeners. What traits from Arielle’s journey resonated with you this season?
Resources:
Wikipedia Entry for Belly Dance
https://www.madisondancelife.com/arielle
https://www.instagram.com/madisondancelife/?hl=en
Related Episodes:
Belly Dancing is Autistic
Careers are Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming 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 -
An Episode with Ye Olde Charm!
Here’s what’s to come in this episode:
* In this episode, Matt and Angela dive into why Renaissance Faires feel innately autistic and explore how the art of LARPing offers a unique twist on masking—where choosing your own character and setting clear expectations can actually work for autistic folks.
* Matt and Angela dive into how events like Ren Faires and concerts—though they might seem like sensory overload for autistic folks—can actually be a sensory delight, offering the freedom to "choose your own adventure" and control the level of sensory input.
* Additionally, Renaissance Faires and historical reenactments tap into the concept of stimming by recreating the same rituals and experiences in a consistent, familiar way over and over again.
* Our hosts explore why Renaissance Fests offer autistic folks a safe space to unmask, stim, embrace echolalia or non-speaking communication (whatever feels right!), set their own structure and rules, build careers around their special interests, and truly let their authentic selves shine.
“If you are unhappy in your job and you have a special interest, I promise you there is some way to make that into a career. God knows what way, but there is a way.” - Angela
“It’s the difference between being in the shower and being hit by a water gun. Because the water gun might be even less water than you’re getting in the shower, but you choose the time, you choose the place, you choose the intensity, you choose the temperature. ” - Matt
“Before the word ‘autism’ was ever uttered, you knew what kind of person would go out to the Gettysburg battlefield and dress up and have prop replicas and all these genuine replicas and have these, you know, historically accurate costumes they made themselves.” - Angela
Did you notice the connection between Renaissance Faires and the autistic experience? Huzzah for joining us! Share your noble thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with fellow fairgoers on social media! Which parts of the fest truly made your spirits (and tankards) rise?
Resources:
https://authorjulieclark.com/aspergers-spd-and-more/the-carolina-renaissance-festival-a-feast-for-the-sensory
https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/psychology-meets-neurodiversity/202306/its-just-stimming
https://renfair.com/bristol/
Angela’s Medieval Wedding:
Related Episodes:
Vampires Are Autistic
Fairy Tales Are Autistic
Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!
Follow us on Instagram
Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
Learn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPP
Join Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook Group
Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com
Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTok
Our Autism-affirming 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 - Vis mere
