Episodios

  • Announcement: Plot Twist (Episode 127)

    Announcement: Plot Twist (Episode 127)
    Apr 29 2025

    This episode is an important announcement. Matt Lowry LPP has decided to step away as a Co-Host and will not longer be apart of The Autistic Culture Podcast.

    Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

    * This episode is being put out there to explain what happened to prevent gossip, rumors, or unnecessary speculation about Matt’s decision to depart the show. The work Matt and I did together mattered—and deserves to be honored with truth, not drama.

    * The Autistic Culture Podcast WILL CONTINUE with Angela but will be different for the upcoming season 4 - all is explained in this episode!

    * The last advocacy episode will come out as usual on Friday while the last official episode of Season 3 will come out on May 6th.

    Matt’s contributions to the Autistic Culture Podcast will always be part of our foundation and I wish him the very best for the future.

    See the Full Correspondence between Matt and I here:

    https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mgd5dBhwP6wAvVBJkvNV34063bcYwjC0IPr4aziZkic/edit

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    Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

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    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
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    1 h y 16 m
  • Autism and Grief (Episode 126)

    Autism and Grief (Episode 126)
    Apr 25 2025
    An episode that gets right in the feels.Please note that this episode contains discussions about, death, suicide and self harm.In Episode 126 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore how grief extends beyond the loss of a person with guest Mady Snyder—an autistic, PDA, ADHD, OCD, and cPTSD-identified therapist—who specializes in exactly this kind of nuance. Why do we grieve the loss of routines, relationships, and expectations. She’s here to help us unpack the ways autistic grief is different—not broken, not less, just different.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode: * We discuss the concept of ambiguous loss, the limitations of traditional grief models, and the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief. * Mady and Angela breakdown the role of special interests in processing grief and the impact of grief on the nervous system. * We share various coping strategies, the significance of personal rituals, the importance of understanding individual needs, and the impact of social invalidation on the grieving process. * Additionally, we address the challenges of internalized ableism and the importance of recognizing diverse expressions of grief and why you can grieve a grilled-cheese sandwich.Mady Synder's BioMady Snyder, LMFT, is a neuroaffirming therapist in private practice in Pasadena. She specializes in Autism, PDA, parenting, and mixed neurotype relationships. She’s also a consultant and educator committed to building environments where neurodivergent people can actually thrive. Oh—and when she’s not doing all that? She’s singing to her cats.Mady’s WebsiteDid you enjoy this episode? We talk about the unique ways autistic individuals experience and express grief — from the concept of ambiguous loss to the limitations of traditional grief models. We also explore coping strategies and the significance of personal rituals, the challenges of internalized ableism, and the necessity of finding supportive resources that cater to neurodiverse individuals! Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Related Episodes:Autistic Sleep ProblemsAging and Executive FunctionAutistic Affirming Social SkillsFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur 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
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    1 h y 10 m
  • Roller Derby Is Autistic (Episode 125)

    Roller Derby Is Autistic (Episode 125)
    Apr 22 2025

    An episode that hits hard and stays in bounds!

    In Episode 125 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore the unexpected overlap between roller derby and autistic identity with guest Karina Taylor — a neurodivergent therapist and seasoned skater. From emotional regulation to alter egos, this episode dives into how the sport offers structure, expression, and community for autistic and neurodivergent individuals alike.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:

    * In this episode, Angela chats with Karina Taylor — a primary therapist at Foundations in Asheville, North Carolina and a roller derby extraordinaire — about the unique connections between roller derby and autism.

    * We dive into roller derby technique and clear up some common misconceptions (no, it’s not choreographed — and no, it’s not all about aggression). But it does bring out some big emotions and serious intensity.

    * Despite its rough-and-tumble reputation, roller derby is a highly organized sport with a detailed rule set and a strong emphasis on strategy and teamwork. It’s also one of the most gender-inclusive sports out there, creating space for athletes of all gender identities to participate, compete, and feel represented on the track.

    * Additionally, roller derby often involves adopting a persona or alter ego — a playful, empowering form of masking that allows skaters to fully step into a character and express parts of themselves that might not surface in everyday life.

    * Roller derby offers a powerful outlet for emotional expression, allowing skaters to channel complex feelings—like frustration, excitement, and vulnerability—into physical movement and team connection. The structure and creativity of the sport provide a safe, supportive space where emotions aren’t just allowed but embraced. For many, especially neurodivergent individuals, it becomes a form of regulation, empowerment, and authentic self-expression both on and off the track.

    Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about all things roller derby — from the rules and strategy to the emotional intensity it brings out in skaters. We also explore how this high-energy, gender-inclusive sport offers a powerful outlet for neurodivergent and autistic individuals to express themselves, connect with community, and even embrace a bold alter ego. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

    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
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    41 m
  • Justice For Victor (Episode 124)

    Justice For Victor (Episode 124)
    Apr 18 2025
    An episode that tries to make it make sense.In Episode 124 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, “Justice for Victor,” we confront the tragic police killing of 17-year-old autistic Puerto Rican teen Victor Perez and the systemic failures that led to his death. Centering voices from the Black neurodivergent community, this powerful conversation demands a reimagining of autistic justice beyond white-centered narratives. This episode is a call to action for the autism and neurodiversity movements to prioritize true equity, accountability, and liberation for all.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode: * In this powerful and somber episode, Angela is joined by Black autistic advocates Faith Clarke and Darren Calhoun to discuss the heart breaking murder of Victor Perez, a non-speaking autistic Puerto Rican teenager.* On April 5th, Victor Perez—a 17-year-old autistic, disabled Puerto Rican teen—was shot by police in his own front yard. He is no longer with us. And now, his family is left to grieve in a system that failed him at every level.* Darren Calhoun is a justice advocate, worship leader, and photographer based in Chicago. He’s the co-host of the Second Sunday podcast, and his work bridges communities across race, gender, and neurodivergence. Darren is a powerful voice for intersectionality and faith-based inclusion, and he’s someone who speaks truth with clarity and compassion.* Faith Clarke wrote her best selling book Parenting Like a Ninja with Angela and it was based in part on her experience as a business owner and mom of a non-speaking autistic son (and a couple of other neurodivergent humans too).* We are especially grateful to Tiffany Hammond who you might remember from our Monster’s High episode a couple of weeks ago — whose writing on her fidgets and fries Instagram in response to Victor’s death called me into deeper reflection. Her words were a turning point for us.* Victor’s Go Fund Me: https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-victor-perezVictor is not the first. He joins a growing list of young, Black and Brown neurodivergent lives—Stephon Watts. Elijah McClain. Ryan Gainer.Their stories demand justice.This episode is about what happened. What should have happened. And what needs to happen next—if we truly want a movement that’s rooted in liberation for all of us. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Related Episodes:Trivia is Autistic (Episode 27)Monster High Is Autistic (Episode 117)Listen to Darren Calhoun on Second Sunday PodcastBuy Faith Clarkes BookFaith’s Substack - Refrenced in this episode:We Will Rest!: The Art of EscapeRest Is Resistance: Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your lifeTiffany Hammond - https://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/Camille Proctor/ Color of Autism Foundation https://www.instagram.com/colorofautism/Othering and Belonging institute: John PowellFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur 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
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    1 h y 7 m
  • Big Bang Theory vs. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: One is Autistic! (Episode 123)

    Big Bang Theory vs. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia: One is Autistic! (Episode 123)
    Apr 16 2025
    An episode that explores autistic and neurodivergent representation in The Big Bang Theory and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. From Sheldon’s neurotypical framing to Charlie Kelly’s proudly autistic chaos, we break down what hits, what misses, and why it matters.Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * In today’s episode, we’re diving into It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and how it nails autistic representation—unlike The Big Bang Theory, which mostly reflects a neurotypical perspective.* We start by breaking down what The Big Bang Theory got right—and wrong—about autism, touching on Young Sheldon and the dynamic between Sheldon and Amy.* After that, we dive into how It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is actually deeply autism-centric, even if it’s not explicitly framed that way.* Then, we dive into how It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia is deeply autism-centric—thanks in large part to Charlie Kelly, who is explicitly autistic and gives the show its neurodivergent heart.* We also explore how the writers of It’s Always Sunny approach the show from a neurodivergent lens—crafting characters who consistently misunderstand the world around them in ways that feel deeply relatable to autistic viewers.* Our hosts get into all the autistic tendencies throughout the show—from Sweet Dee, Dennis, and Charlie’s unique quirks to Charlie himself, who has openly identified as autistic multiple times.* We also talk about how the humor in It’s Always Sunny is specifically tailored to an autistic audience and sense of humor—sharp, absurd, and rooted in social misunderstandings.* Matt and Angela also discuss the concept of autistic integrity and how it shows up both in It’s Always Sunny and in the core values of this podcast.* Sometimes we have to play the game of capitalism just to get by—but as long as you’ve got your crew of fellow weirdos to lean on, you’ll make it through.“It’s representation, but at what cost? We don’t have a seat at the table. There is a picture on the table of a caricature of an autistic person. And then everyone else talking about how weird they are.” - Matt“The impetus behind It’s Always Sunny was not, ‘hey, let’s make a marketable show and sell it and have lots of airtime and get in the top 20 or whatever.’ They’re like, ‘hey, you know what would be funny? If we did our own thing with a low-res video recorder.” - Matt“They are very, very socially minded. They’re very, very self conscious about these things, which is the autistic way. They do things in the way that they do it because they think it’s the right thing to do. Whenever they see an issue, they want to call it out on the show. So they do it in the most blatant way possible so that the people watching it will be like, ‘hey, that’s an issue.” - MattDid you love this episode? We took a deep dive into autistic representation in pop culture—comparing The Big Bang Theory and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia. From Sheldon and Amy’s dynamic to Charlie Kelly’s openly autistic identity, we unpack how neurodivergent humor, character quirks, and autistic integrity show up on screen. We also explore how Sunny nails an autistic lens through its writing, jokes, and chaotic logic. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Related Episodes:Community is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur 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
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    1 h y 11 m
  • Navigating Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) with Jess Lewis (Episode 122)

    Navigating Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) with Jess Lewis (Episode 122)
    Apr 11 2025
    An episode that explores the intricate connections between MCAS, autism, and POTS through a neurodivergent lens and the principles of functional medicine. Jess Lewis joins Matt and Angela to share her personal journey, the impact of medical gaslighting, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization.Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * In today’s episode, we explore the link between MCAS and autism with special guest Jess Lewis — a functional medicine and trauma-informed neurodiversity advocate who supports individuals living with MCAS.* Jess talks about how getting COVID and being around mold kicked her mast cells into overdrive.* When our bodies are under too much stress, a dysregulated nervous system can send our mast cells into overdrive. Since autistic people are being forced to navigate a neurotypical world, we are more prone to this.* We delve into the experience of medical gaslighting and the struggle to access supportive care while living with MCAS.* Additionally, we discuss the importance of a low-histamine diet when managing MCAS and how it can play a key role in reducing symptoms.* Our hosts and Jess explore the connection between POTS and autism, and share strategies for calming and stabilizing overactive mast cells.* We then dive into the topic of anaphylaxis and how it can occur when mast cells become severely dysregulated. Jess breaks down what happens in the body during an anaphylactic response — and how, in those with MCAS, even seemingly minor triggers can lead to a cascade of symptoms when the immune system is already in a heightened state of alert.* Finally, we explore the intersection of practical and functional medicine, and how blending both approaches can offer more comprehensive support for those with complex conditions like MCAS.“When you go to the doctor, think about it like a work meeting. Have a plan, have an agenda, have the questions laid out. Use your superpowers of deep research. Bring studies - not to be combative, but just to say, ‘I wanna colaborate on this. Here’s what I’m seeing, here’s what I’m thinking. And if your doctor doesn’t wanna listen to you, go find another doctor. Feel good about the boundaries you put in front of yourself, because you gotta advocate.” - Jess Lewis“If I can change one mind, I can change several minds… If I could change things for just a few people to have the lightbulb go off, to say, ‘I’ve got your back. I want to be the advocate for you. I want you to be the advocate for yourself.” - Jess LewisDid you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the intersection of MCAS, autism, and neurodivergent health experiences. From medical gaslighting to the overlap with POTS and nervous system dysregulation, we unpack what it means to live in a body that's constantly on high alert. We also explore the importance of functional medicine, low-histamine diets, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Jess Lewis (she/they) is a Chief Technology Officer, turned MCAS researcher, and founder of the Mast Cell Support community. After reversing her own severe case of MCAS triggered by COVID and mold exposure, Jess now helps others heal using an evidence-based, neurodivergent-friendly approach rooted in functional medicine and trauma-informed care. She’s currently pursuing a PhD in Functional Medicine with a specialty in Mast Cell health and comorbidities, and brings a deep, systems-thinking lens to both her health advocacy and her continued leadership in tech.Show NotesThreads, Instagram, Substack: @jesslewisAdditional info and links: https://subscribepage.io/jesslewisjesslewis.comCommunity - https://community.mastcellsupport.com/invitationFood Guide Pharmacyhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QuercetinRelated Episodes:Autistic Medical Needs (Episode 14)Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)Autistic Medical Needs, Part 2 (Episode 108)Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur 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
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    1 h y 4 m
  • My Chemical Romance Is Autistic (Episode 121)

    My Chemical Romance Is Autistic (Episode 121)
    Apr 8 2025
    An episode that explores the impact of My Chemical Romance through an autistic and neurodivergent perspective. Matt, Angela, and our sound engineer Simon Scott break down how the band’s emotional intensity, justice themes, and outsider energy have made them a lasting icon within the autistic community.Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * Today, we’re taking a deep dive into My Chemical Romance and exploring how they reflect and embody elements of the autistic experience.* Our podcast producer, sound engineer, and behind-the-scenes magic man, Simon Scott, steps in front of the mic today to talk about his special interest.* We kick things off with the ultimate lore deep dive—tracing the butterfly effect from 9/11 all the way to Ellen DeGeneres getting canceled (yes, it is connected to My Chemical Romance, and yes, it makes sense… eventually).* After witnessing the Twin Towers fall from the Hudson River on 9/11, Gerard Way felt a deep urge to create something bigger than himself—something that could connect people through shared emotion and purpose. Out of that moment, My Chemical Romance was born.* We then dive into how bottom-up processing and autistic hyper-empathy may have influenced Gerard’s decision—how taking in overwhelming sensory and emotional details of the moment could have sparked a need to respond in a deeply personal, creative, and connective way.* The band went on to write, produce, perform, and publish their entire first album within a week—a hyperfixation-fueled feat that no neurotypical could realistically pull off with the same intensity, focus, and urgency.* Their albums are deeply narrative, with each one following characters that symbolically represent the band members themselves. The first two albums build a layered universe that culminates in their third release—Welcome to the Black Parade—widely regarded as their magnum opus and a defining moment in emo and alternative music history.* We unpack the imagery in the “I’m Not Okay (I Promise)” music video and how it resonates with many autistic traits—highlighting themes of social rejection, masking, sensory overwhelm, and the desperate need to be understood in a world that constantly misunderstands you.* Next, we explore themes of justice sensitivity woven throughout MCR’s lyrics—a trait commonly linked to the autistic experience—and how the so-called “autistic accent” subtly shapes the cadence, rhythm, and emotional delivery of their songs, adding layers of urgency, vulnerability, and authenticity.* Our hosts and Simon dive into the rich subculture that’s emerged from the band’s work—a world built by and for the outcasts, the overly emotional, the neurodivergent, and those who never quite fit in. MCR didn’t just create music—they created a movement, a safe haven, and a language for people who feel everything too much.* Finally, we dive into expectation sensitivity, unpack the reasons behind the band’s 8-year hiatus, and reflect on their powerful return—why their message hits harder than ever in today’s world and why we still need MCR now more than ever.“I’d rather be a creature of the night than just some old dude.” - Gerard Way“I disappoint a lot of people. They expect me to be one way. If I spend a minute with them, they end up saying, ‘Oh, you’re actually just a really nice person. They hate me when they catch me out of my makeup.” - Gerard Way“Neurotypical people tend to do things for power, prestige, and profit. He’s not doing it because he wants to maintain the My Chemical Romance empire. He’s not doing it because he wants to be famous. He’s not doing it because he wants all the money. He has a story to tell. He has a reason for doing the thing.” - MattDid you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the world of My Chemical Romance and how their music, message, and aesthetic embody key aspects of the autistic experience. From the butterfly effect of 9/11 to the cancellation of Ellen (yes, really), we trace the band’s origins, explore autistic hyper-empathy and justice sensitivity in their lyrics, and analyze how the “autistic accent” shows up in their sound. Plus, we break down the iconic “I’m Not Okay” music video and the subculture that’s made MCR a safe haven for neurodivergent weirdos everywhere. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!Show Notes:My Chemical Romance on Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Chemical_RomanceBlack Parade in Musical Order - Neurodivergent Experience -Na Na Na Music Video: Welcome to the Black Parade Music Video: Related Episodes:Chess is AutisticFreddie Mercury is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur Autism-affirming merch shop This is a public episode. If ...
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    1 h y 17 m
  • Twin Myths: Giftedness & "Profound Autism" (Episode 120)

    Twin Myths: Giftedness & "Profound Autism" (Episode 120)
    Apr 4 2025
    An episode that dives deep on the myths of giftedness and “profound autism” two tropes that lead to bad outcomes for Autistic people. We look at conservatorship, lack of autonomy, and substance abuse and their connections to these terms. Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode: * In today's episode, Matt and Angela dive into the controversial discussion surrounding "profound autism."* It turns out that "profound autism" isn’t a clinical term, but rather a label used by the ABA industry to restrict the number of autistic advocates who can speak for themselves.* Calling it "profound autism" is more profitable than saying "level 3 autism" because it creates a sense of urgency, making it easier for the ABA industry to secure funding and promote more intervention-based services.* In this episode, we explore the connection between giftedness and autism, and how gifted individuals face higher rates of addiction and substance abuse.* The autism levels are directly tied to capitalism—how much money you can make often depends on how well you can mask your symptoms.* Our hosts also discuss how terms like "indigo children" and "highly sensitive persons (HSPs)" are often just euphemisms for being autistic.* Then, we dive into the ABA industry, the issues with Autism Speaks, and the impact of helicopter autism parents who prevent their children from learning and growing.* We also talk about autistic pattern recognition and how it can sometimes feel like we're psychic, picking up on details others might miss.* Matt and Angela discuss how pattern recognition can also serve as a survival skill, and how burnout manifests in everyone who is autistic.* We elaborate on how autistic individuals can be more prone to substance abuse, often as a way to cope with sensory overload, social challenges, or unmet needs.* Then, we dive into the concept of being a functional alcoholic and explore the connection between substance abuse and giftedness.* We discuss Dan Harmon, creator of Rick and Morty, and how his autistic burnout led to struggles with alcoholism and missed deadlines.* Finally, we explore reframing autism in terms of "masking levels" rather than outdated "functioning" labels.“What people don’t understand is that, when it comes to the autism, we just have the autism. It might have some comorbid characteristics with other stuff - for instance, ‘profound autism’ might have some intellectual disability. But it doesn’t change the nature of the autism, it just changes the operating system that you’re working with. It changes the hardware that you’re working with.” - Matt“The autism is the autism. It is the hyper-connected brain. It is the hyper-connected brain. It is the genetic underpinning that changes everything about us.” - Matt“You could be gifted, but God forbid the word ‘autistic’ with no qualifiers just comes out of your mouth. I don’t know what happens. I think God throws Zeus a bolt of lightning. Something must happen.” - Angela“I have had periods in my life where I actually thought I must be psychic because these things would happen. I’d be like, ‘my god, I think I’m psychic. And then I realized, ‘shit, I’m just pattern matching.” - AngelaDid you enjoy this episode? We explored the controversial label of "profound autism" and how it's used to limit autistic self-advocacy. We also dove into the connection between giftedness and substance abuse, the role of pattern recognition as a survival skill, and the cycle of burnout and underemployment in the autistic community. Plus, we break down the issues with Autism Speaks, the ABA industry, and helicopter autism parents. Tune in and share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!Show Notes:Harmontown Movie - Related Episodes:Sherlock is AutisticCommunity is AutisticFollow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Matt at Matt Lowry, LPPJoin Matt’s Autistic Connections Facebook GroupLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com Angela’s social media: Twitter and TikTokOur 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
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    1 h y 9 m
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