Episodios

  • Pillar 9: Justice Seeking with Clare Kumar (Episode 149)

    Pillar 9: Justice Seeking with Clare Kumar (Episode 149)
    Jul 15 2025
    An episode that deeply values justice and honesty!In Episode 149 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 9 of Autistic Culture: Justice Seeking, with special guest Clare Kumar, productivity expert and host of the Happy Space Podcast.Clare is a late-diagnosed autistic woman, executive coach, and productivity speaker. She brings unique insight into neurodivergent efficiency, workplace design, and inclusive spaces through her work with Hidden Disabilities Canada and her signature Joy Inventory tool.If you've ever been accused of being “too intense,” “too rigid,” or “black-and-white,” this episode is for you. Angela and Clare flip the script and reclaim those traits as moral clarity, fairness-driven thinking, and authentic advocacy — powerful parts of autistic identity.Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:* We call out what others ignore.Autistic people are often the first to question broken systems, double standards, and flawed logic. We don’t pretend it makes sense—we say it doesn’t.* We sense injustice instantly.Misaligned actions, hypocrisy, and favouritism aren’t just annoying—they feel unbearable. Fairness isn’t optional. It’s foundational.* We speak up—no matter the cost.Whether it's calling out ableism, bias, or misinformation, autistic advocates often challenge power structures—even when it's uncomfortable.* We hold systems to their own rules.We expect policies to be applied with consistency and equity. Selective enforcement? We notice—and we question it.* We feel justice in our bodies.What’s labelled as “Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria” is often justice sensitivity—a real-time emotional response to being dismissed for telling the truth.* We don’t fake neutrality.When something’s wrong, we can’t mask it. We’re not “too intense”—we’re deeply aligned with our values.* We crave clarity, not conflict.Accountability helps us feel safe. We don’t want to blame—we want to understand what went wrong and how to fix it.* We value truth over comfort.Authenticity matters more than approval. Many of us would rather lose a friendship than betray our principles.Key Concepts* ✨ Moral clarity: We often see the ethical core of a situation before others do—and struggle to stay silent about it.* 🗣️ Literal honesty: We mean what we say and expect others to do the same.* 💥 Rejection sensitivity: Injustice isn’t abstract—it hits us in the body.* ⚫⚪ Black-and-white thinking: Not immaturity. Often, it’s a response to seeing real harm ignored.* 🧐 System scrutiny: We notice when things don’t align—and we say something.* 😤 Meltdowns as protest: Emotional intensity is a valid response to injustice, not just overstimulation.* ⚖️ Fairness as a driving force: We advocate for others even when it costs us socially.* 🔍 Truth over comfort: We’d rather be uncomfortable than complicit.💭 For so many of us, justice-seeking has been used against us. We were “too intense,” “too much,” or “overreacting.” But what if we reframed it as a cultural strength?Here are ten ways to lean in:* Let your body guide you.When you feel that heat of injustice rise, listen. That’s truth.* Pick your battles wisely.You don’t have to fight every fight. Choose the ones aligned with your values.* Explain your logic.Say: “This feels wrong to me because it breaks the pattern or expectation.”* Validate your emotional reaction.Meltdowns aren’t a weakness. They’re protest.* Use scripting when needed.Have phrases ready to stand up for yourself calmly.* Create micro-cultures of fairness.At work, home, or school—model your version of justice.* Don’t mask your clarity.Say what’s true—even if it’s not what’s easy.* Channel outrage into action.Start a campaign, write a letter, set a boundary.* Make space for nuance.Justice doesn’t mean perfection. It means integrity.* Celebrate when systems do get better.Even tiny reforms are evidence of your impact.So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.We’re saving you a seat!This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “Where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!Resources:Clare Kumar — Happy Space Podcast, Episode 45In this pivotal episode, Clare explores late autism diagnosis, justice sensitivity, and the powerful moment of realisation with Melanie Diesel.🔗 Listen here: Happy Space Podcast – Episode 45👕 InclusiviTees by Clare KumarWear your values. InclusiviTees are ethically made, neurodivergent-affirming apparel designed by Clare to spark conversation and promote inclusivity.🔗 Shop ...
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    1 h y 19 m
  • Advice for Autistics (Episode 148) - Writing Prompt #35

    Advice for Autistics (Episode 148) - Writing Prompt #35
    Jul 11 2025
    An episode that shares advice for Autistics, because advice is one of the fastest ways we build culture!In Episode 148 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon shares her most powerful advice for newly identified autistic adults—and invites you to do the same in just 100 words or less.This episode is part of our 12-week writing series created specifically for autistic writers, creatives, and self-discovery seekers who use storytelling as a tool for healing, identity integration, and unmasking.All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our ninth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.OUR WINNER 🥇At Least Three Dead Trolls in a Baggie Got Warned By Elena Kay GreenwellTHE RUNNER UP 🥈Greyworld By Katherine StewartCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:* Why writing is a powerful tool for autistic identity integration.* Real examples of 100-word advice letters for newly diagnosed autistics.* The emotional process of late autism discovery and family dynamics.* Behind the scenes of creating a journal therapy-based writing podcast.* The difference between self-diagnosed vs. self-identified in autistic culture.* How to use special interests as healing practices, not guilty pleasures.* The upcoming Neurodivergent Narratives Masterclass for paid members.* Whether future content should focus solely on autistic voices or all neurodivergent writers.Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Got A Tip’ ContestA contest that turns your best advice into a cultural legacy!PROMPT: In 100 words or fewer, share your best advice with a newly identified Autistic personAdvice is one of the fastest ways we build culture. When someone’s newly diagnosed, they’re often swimming in a sea of grief, confusion, and identity shock. Advice rooted in lived Autistic experience cuts through that fog. It says You’re not broken. You’re not alone. And yes, this weird, wonderful brain of yours can be hilarious.⚠️Your advice may not be any longer than 100 words.This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, July 16th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.Use the hashtag #gotatip on social media to share this contest.Submit Your Entry Here: https://forms.gle/i2ZH9vKymSqqNG2N6Resources:🎤 Joe Wells – "I Am Autistic"Watch the full comedy set on YouTube:🎵 Jude Perl – "The Label Song"Listen on Bandcamp:📘 Book Recommendation – Am I Actually Autistic?Your Guide to Processing the Identity Shock of Late Autism Discovery & Living UnmaskedCheck out the free preview on Substack: autisticculture.substack.com/t/bookRelated Episodes:Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29Writing Memoir with Alethea Shapiro (Episode 138) - Writing Prompt #30Neurodivergent Creative Cycles with Sol Smith (Episode 140) - Writing Prompt #31The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32Autistic Head Cannon (Episode 144) - Writing Prompt #33Autism And The Myth of Success (Episode 146) - Writing Prompt #34Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com 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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    58 m
  • Pillar 8: Predictably Comforting (Episode 147)

    Pillar 8: Predictably Comforting (Episode 147)
    Jul 8 2025
    An episode that is not about inflexibility—it’s about emotional safety, sensory regulation, and being authentically ourselves in a world that often feels chaotic!In Episode 147 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr. Angela Kingdon explores Pillar 8 of Autistic Culture: Predictably Comforting, with special guest Daria Brown, author of We Chose Play: Raising an Autistic Child to Thrive and Feel Understood.Daria Brown has a Master’s degree in Personality and Social Psychology. She has worked in the field of research, evaluation, and education for over 30 years at universities, not-for-profits, and government.Together, they discuss why predictability, routine, and familiarity are not only comforting but essential in autistic lives.This episode is especially meaningful for autistic listeners, families, and advocates who want to gain a deeper understanding of why consistency matters so deeply in autistic culture. Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:* Autistic Brains Crave PredictabilityOur nervous systems seek regulation over novelty. Familiar patterns reduce overwhelm and foster inner peace.* Routine as Emotional SafetyAutistic routines—like watching the same show, eating familiar foods, or repeating daily rituals—aren’t rigid. They’re tools for stability, helping manage emotional and sensory overload.* Cultural Examples of Comforting Predictability* Thomas the Tank Engine’s structured stories* Dino Nuggets’ consistent texture and taste* Andy Warhol’s daily green underwear and soup-can art* Repetition as a Strength, Not a SymptomFrom stimming to re-watching favorite shows, repetition brings grounding comfort. It supports emotional regulation and fosters creativity.💬 Autistic Culture Deep Dive:* 🔄 Comfort in Repetition: Songs, foods, media, and routines provide grounding.* 🌀 Stimming as Predictable Movement: A soothing way to regulate sensory input.* ⚠️ Expectation Sensitivity: Transitions disrupt our “knowns,” causing emotional friction.* 👕 Sameness Reduces Anxiety: Wearing the same clothes, and eating familiar meals—it’s not about control, it’s about coherence.* 🚫 Resistance to Change ≠ Defiance: It’s self-protection against sensory/emotional overload.💭 For folks listening who maybe don’t crave predictability or know how to, how can you lean into the comfort of repetition on their terms?Lean-in Tips🧠 Lean In / 🎭 Mask* Stick to your routines.🧠 Lean in: Use rituals to ground your day.🎭 Mask: Force yourself to “be spontaneous” and spiral.* Wear your sensory favorites.🧠 Lean in: Rewear the same soft hoodie 3x a week.🎭 Mask: Rotate outfits to meet fashion norms.* Eat your safe foods.🧠 Lean in: Pack the same lunch for a month.🎭 Mask: Try new foods at lunch and go dysregulated.* Watch or read repeats.🧠 Lean in: Rewatch the same series at bedtime for comfort.🎭 Mask: Force yourself to find “something new” and lose sleep.* Build in transition time.🧠 Lean in: Use alarms, cues, or scripts to ease task switches.🎭 Mask: Jump tasks on command and burn out.* Set up sensory consistency.🧠 Lean in: Control lighting, sound, and scent in your spaces.🎭 Mask: Tolerating discomfort to avoid seeming high-maintenance.* Respect your “no change zones.”🧠 Lean in: Keep your desk, bedroom, or car the same.🎭 Mask: Rearrange to please others and feel lost.* Plan downtime after the chaos.🧠 Lean in: Schedule recovery time after travel or visitors.🎭 Mask: Fill the calendar and crash emotionally.* Use comfort objects without shame.🧠 Lean in: Hug your stuffed animal. Use your fidget.🎭 Mask: Hide them to seem “grown up.”* Let sameness be sacred.🧠 Lean in: Say “I like it this way.”🎭 Mask: Apologies for not being “flexible.”So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.We’re saving you a seat!This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “Where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!Resources: Connect with Affect Autism* 🌐 Website: https://affectautism.com/2020/03/29/meet-daria* 📖 Daria’s Book: We Chose Play: Raising an Autistic Child to Thrive and Feel Understood* 🎧 Podcast: Affect Autism Podcast* 📺 YouTube: Affect Autism YouTube Channel* 📸 Instagram: @affectautism* 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/affectautism* 🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @affectautismRelated Episodes:* Dino Nuggets (Ep 21)Dino Nuggets are predictably comforting because they deliver the exact same taste, texture, and shape every time, making them the ultimate safe food for sensory-sensitive eaters.* Thomas the Tank Engine (Ep 22)Thomas is predictably comforting ...
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    1 h y 10 m
  • Autism And The Myth of Success (Episode 146) - Writing Prompt #34

    Autism And The Myth of Success (Episode 146) - Writing Prompt #34
    Jul 4 2025
    An episode that rewrites what “Success” means for autistic writers!In Episode 146 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon is joined by Christina Socorro Yovovich, a gifted autistic writer, poet, and fiber artist, to dive into the meaning of “success” through the lens of neurodivergent experience.This conversation explores how writing can be both a healing tool and a radical act of self-definition for neurodivergent people. From redefining creative productivity to unmasking through memoir, Christina and Angela break down internalized ableism, the pressure of neurotypical success standards, and the value of sensory-soothing creative practices like knitting and journaling.All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our eighth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.OUR WINNER 🥇Goldilocks - Girl MisunderstoodBy Bragitta OzhgaTHE RUNNER UP 🥈Konstantin LevinBy Louise LomasCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:* How the neurodivergent brain resists conventional “productivity” advice like “write every day”.* Why creative rituals like knitting aren’t distractions—they’re essential nervous system regulation tools.* The myth of external success (publication, money, recognition) vs. the reality of internal success (healing, expression, connection).* Spoon theory and how neurodivergent people can intentionally build energy through special interests.* How the need for a concrete audience affects autistic writers and their process.* What predictably comforting environments and sensory supports (like pets) do for autistic creativity.Christina Socorro Yovovich is a writer of poetry and creative nonfiction. Her poetry has been featured in literary journals including Blue Mesa Review, River Styx, and Mothers Always Write, while her nonfiction work has appeared in publications such as The Hunger, Cagibi, and MUTHA Magazine. Christina is currently working on a memoir exploring the complexities of parenting while living with bipolar disorder. Her writing is known for its emotional honesty, lyrical depth, and insight into the lived experience of mental health and motherhood.Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Who Can It Be Now?’ ContestA contest with some mystery to it.PROMPT: There's an unexpected knock at the door! Use that as the jumping-off point for a piece of writing.Use the classic horror trope of an unexpected knock at the door as the jumping-off point for a new piece of writing. Let the question of who—or what—knocks guide your narrative in the genre of your choosing.⚠️Your mystery may not be any longer than 500 words.This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, July 9th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.Use the hashtag #whocanitbenow on social media to share this contest.Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfbKx9Hz1PzV7-7V9eEV70_Dj4L_5HetAopjzmbZjVhA-yuCA/viewformResources:* 📸 Instagram: @cyovovich* 📚 Published Works: christinasocorroyovovich.com/list-of-publications* 🎧 Christina’s Podcast: Watch and Listen Here* 🎧 Podcast Guest Appearance:“Discovering a Grounded Joy” on the Therapeutic Knitting PodcastListen Here* 🧶 Featured Article in Ply Magazine:“The Woolly Animal of Dawn”Read the Piece* Join her on YouTube for a Knit and Chat: * Check out her guest sermon at my Unitarian Universalist church: Related Episodes:Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29Writing Memoir with Alethea Shapiro (Episode 138) - Writing Prompt #30Neurodivergent Creative Cycles with Sol Smith (Episode 140) - Writing Prompt #31The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32Autistic Head Cannon (Episode 144) - Writing Prompt #33Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com 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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    1 h y 4 m
  • Pillar 7: Boldly Creating (Episode 145)

    Pillar 7: Boldly Creating (Episode 145)
    Jul 1 2025
    An episode that isn’t about making art that’s palatable—it’s about making art that’s true. In Episode 145 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture as we move onto Pillar 7 — Boldly Creating with Nina Danon, Composer, Sound Artist, and Doctoral Researcher, whose work explores the rich intersections between autism, music, creativity, and sensory experience.Nina’s work on Musical Neuroqueering will be published in 2026 in Neuroqueer Theory and Practice, edited by Dr Nick Walker, providing the first draft of her toolkit to empower anyone to expand their neurodivergence through music, and music through neurodivergence.Autistic creativity is deeply rooted in our sensory experiences, emotional intensity, and need for authentic self-expression.Boldly Creating is the autistic drive to express truth through movement, sound, pattern, and special interest, using creativity as connection, regulation, and radical self-expression. So much of boldly creating comes from stimming and sensory experiences that are core to music and the heart of your work.Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:* Boldly Creating isn’t about making art that’s palatable—it’s about making art that’s true. * We don’t wait for permission to make art, to move, to stim, or to build new worlds. We create in ways that often defy convention—through rhythm, repetition, structure, texture, sound, and story. * Autistics’ creative work is fueled by special interests, hyperfocus, and bottom-up processing. We invent new forms when existing ones don’t fit, building from the ground up, not following someone else’s form.* Whether it’s knitting, composing, coding, dancing, designing, scripting, or sound-building, autistic people boldly create because that’s how we process, regulate, connect, and express our deepest selves.* Autistic creativity is sensory-rooted, emotionally rich, and self-expressive, often expressed through movement (like stimming), sound, visuals, and texture.Key Concepts:* Stimming is performance. Fandom is creation. Knitting is structure, roller derby is choreography.* Bold creation resists perfection—it values expression over conformity.* Autism-centered creativity often dismantles genre boundaries.* It’s embodied, synaesthetic, non-linear: world as your playground.💭 For folks listening who maybe don’t see themselves as “artists,” but have a deep love of sound, movement, pattern, or rhythm, how can you lean into boldly creating on their terms?* 🧠 Lean In: Let stimming be your creative score.* 🧠 Lean In: Bring sensory textures into your medium (knit, sculpt, code).* 🧠 Lean In: Collaborate in flow—create shared flow states.* 🧠 Lean In: Make mistakes public—share drafts, rough takes.* 🧠 Lean In: Use creative tools you build, like Nina’s Stimming Wheel.* 🧠 Lean In: Amplify sensory-emotional fusion—write what you feel AND see.So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.If you’d like to discuss Autistic and Neurodivergent music, or if you are an artist of any discipline interested in beta testing the Embodied Stimming Wheel, please email Nina at ncdanon@gmail.com or find Nina BlueSky: @ninadanon.bsky.socialWe’re saving you a seat!This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!Resources:Bill Davis on Autistic Listening: https://salford-repository.worktribe.com/output/1361259/autistic-listeningVolcano, a neurodivergent sonic experience by Nina Danon & Francesco Cassino: https://www.ninadanon.com/volcano“Composing Neurodivergence: A Musical Neuroqueering Journey”, a talk by Nina for the Autistic Research Seminar Series, King's College, February 2025:Further Reading Recommendations from Nina:Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, H., Örnulf, L., Hasselblad, S., Hansson, D., Nilsson, K., & Seng, H.(2020). Designing an Autistic Space for Research: Exploring the Impact of Context, Space, and Sociality in Autistic Writing Processes. In H. Bertilsdotter Rosqvist, N. Chown, & A. Stenning (Eds.), Neurodiversity studies: A new critical paradigm. Routledge.Sondheim, S. (2011). Look, I Made a Hat: Collected Lyrics (1981-2011) with AttendantComments, Amplifications, Dogmas, Harangues, Digressions, Anecdotes and Miscellany (First edition). Alfred A. Knopf.Related Episodes:Eminem - Eminem’s lyrical precision, rapid-fire delivery, and emotional vulnerability are trademarks of autistic creation. Through music, he boldly created a voice no one could ignore—even when they tried. (Ep 19)Questlove - Questlove’s ...
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    1 h y 14 m
  • Autistic Head Cannon (Episode 144) - Writing Prompt #33

    Autistic Head Cannon (Episode 144) - Writing Prompt #33
    Jun 27 2025
    An episode that uncovers the hidden neurodivergent depths of beloved book characters.In Episode 144 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon and author/editor Jo Case explore the deep emotional resonance of autistic-coded characters in fiction, the power of autistic storytelling, and what it means to see “someone like me” in books.All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our seventh writing contest!Here are our top two entries.OUR WINNER 🥇‘The Armadillo and the Cactus’By Genya VasilovTHE RUNNER UP 🥈‘The Runt and the Kitten’By Fiona BakerCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:* Jo Case shares her journey as a neurodivergent writer and editor, and discusses her autism late-diagnosis story and her memoir ‘Boomer and Me’ on autistic motherhood.* Jo and Angela name and unpack book characters they now read as autistic — from Jo March to Anne of Green Gables to Harriet the Spy.* Hear the winning fable from last week’s prompt.* Jo shares actionable tips for autistic writers who want to go from journaling to publishing.Jo Case (she/her) is a writer and editor who lives in Adelaide. Someone Like Me: An anthology of non-fiction by Autistic writers by Jo Case - An expansive anthology of creative non-fiction, memoir, graphic storytelling, and more from a stellar line-up of Autistic, gender-diverse, and women writers. She is the deputy books and ideas editor at The Conversation. Her memoir of autistic motherhood, ‘Boomer and Me’, was published by Hardie Grant in 2013.Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Someone Like Me’ ContestA contest where we write about the deep emotional resonance of autistic-coded characters in fiction.PROMPT: Write about a childhood book character you now read as Autistic.This can be a character from a children's book or an adult book, but it should have a pull on you as identity-forming or pivotal to your growth.⚠️Your essay may not be any longer than 500 words.This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, July 2nd at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.Use the hashtag #someonelikeme on social media to share this contest.Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSes-dR34WBtfe7VYGx7wZRvqNhV8ykEGr4L9CHzNSjN5HVfFQ/viewformRelated Episodes:Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing Prompt #27Recovering from Burnout (Episode 134) - Writing Prompt #28Local Color with Tim Clare (Episode 136) - Writing Prompt #29Writing Memoir with Alethea Shapiro (Episode 138) - Writing Prompt #30Neurodivergent Creative Cycles with Sol Smith (Episode 140) - Writing Prompt #31The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32Follow us on InstagramFind us on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyLearn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com 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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    1 h y 5 m
  • Pillar 6: Game Changing Innovation (Episode 143)

    Pillar 6: Game Changing Innovation (Episode 143)
    Jun 24 2025
    An episode that didn’t just think outside the box—it questioned why there’s a box in the first place!In Episode 143 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon continues our journey through the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture as we move onto Pillar 6 — Game Changing Innovation. Autistic innovation isn’t about trends or flash. It’s about paradigm shifts. It’s about seeing what no one else is looking for, hyperfocusing on what matters, and rebuilding the world, system by system.Dr Angela looks deep into the game-changing transformations developed by Autistic game changers, such as Sir Isaac Newton, who invented Calculus, Sir Richard Branson’s out-of-the-box business models, and Angela’s father’s innovations in creating build-your-own Hot Rod kit cars.Here’s what defines this core Autistic trait:* Autistic people challenge assumptions, not to be difficult, but because we can see the assumptions in the first place.* Neurodivergent people innovate through sensory truth, emotional intensity, and process precision.* Autistic people don’t disrupt the status quo to seek attention. We disrupt because the system doesn’t make sense, and we can’t unsee that.* Game changers in autistic culture often challenge capitalist efficiency with a call for meaning, integrity, and alignment.* Many autistic innovators aren't seen as leaders until the world catches up to their vision.* Historical and modern change agents in autistic culture often operate without blueprints, forging their own.Key Concepts:* Game-changing is not about chasing disruption for its own sake. It’s about building entirely new paradigms based on noticing what others overlook.* Autistic game changers are pattern-breakers and system rewriters — not trend-followers.* Our deep focus and drive for autonomy let us find wholly new approaches to enduring problems.* Emotional intensity and sensory insights fuel world-building innovation.* It's often misunderstood or resisted because the new paradigm doesn't fit existing frameworks.💭 Here’s what to listen for through the lens of being a Game Changer and how to lean into them instead of masking: * 🧠 Lean In: Solve the problem no one else is trying to solve.🎭 Mask: Wait for permission to innovate.* 🧠 Lean In: Say the thing others avoid.🎭 Mask: Stay quiet to keep things smooth.* 🧠 Lean In: Build your own tools when none exist.🎭 Mask: Settle for tools that don’t work for your brain.* 🧠 Lean In: Follow sensory intuition.🎭 Mask: Override your gut to fit neurotypical norms.* 🧠 Lean In: Let emotional intensity guide your purpose.🎭 Mask: Detach to appear professional.* 🧠 Lean In: Hire people better than you.🎭 Mask: Try to do it all yourself.* 🧠 Lean In: Prioritize purpose over polish.🎭 Mask: Get stuck perfecting instead of launching.* 🧠 Lean In: Lead through clarity, not control.🎭 Mask: Micro-manage to feel safe.* 🧠 Lean In: Share your innovations, even if they feel “weird.”🎭 Mask: Water down your ideas for palatability.* 🧠 Lean In: Build systems around your vision.🎭 Mask: Work inside broken ones to avoid attention.So, whether you’re autistic, exploring the possibility, or just someone who loves and respects autistic people, you are welcome here.We’re saving you a seat!This episode is a part of our Start Here Series, which is designed for new listeners of the show who are wondering, “where should I start?” to have a solid foundation for their experience here. It’s also for loyal listeners to begin to more fully embody the pillars of Autistic culture with more clarity and pride. Join the convo with #AutisticCulture!Resources:Angela’s talk at TEDx Tamworth that references Sir Isaac Newton as a Game changerMake ‘Em Beg To Work For You: 7 Steps to Find, Hire, Manage, Reward, and Release All-Star Players to Help Make Your Dream a Reality: Book on Amazon https://amzn.eu/d/fDJXaaTBig Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert - https://amzn.eu/d/iQCn8RdLessons in Chemistry TV show: In the 1950s, Elizabeth Zott's (Brie Larson) dream of being a scientist is challenged by a society that says women belong in the domestic sphere; she accepts a job on a TV cooking show and sets out to teach a nation of housewives way more than recipes.Bohemian Rhapsody Movie: With his impeccable vocal abilities, Freddie Mercury (Oscar Winner Rami Malek) and his rock band, Queen, achieve superstardom. However, amidst his skyrocketing success, he grapples with his ego, sexuality, and a fatal illness.Related Episodes:🎬 Episode 4 – Industrial Light & MagicGame Changer: George Lucas imagined a sci-fi story that required technology no one had invented yet, so he invented the technology. ILM didn’t just upgrade filmmaking—it transformed the entire system of visual effects. That’s autistic world-building in action: noticing what’s missing, refusing to accept limits, and constructing tools for an imagined reality ...
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  • The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32

    The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32
    Jun 20 2025
    An episode that mastered the art of unmasking on the page!In Episode 142 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Dr Angela Kingdon discusses the art of unmasking and how writing can help process late-diagnosis identity shock. Plus, she reveals this week’s creative prompt themed around the oral tradition of writing and sharing Fables! What lessons, values, or morals would you pass down as an Autistic person?All this, and we announce our amazing winners from our sixth writing contest!Here are our top two entries.OUR WINNER 🥇Lindsee Garlock-Thornton:-Sparkly Brain-The greatest treasureGolden playground of the mindNo bland thoughts in here-Knowledge Thirst Trap-I learn something newPupils dilate, purview swellsLet’s do that again!-Sensational Senses-I must touch the thingSmooth, fluffy, bumpy, or slickHungry fingertips-Visual Disturbance Rumination-The anomalyHighly visible to meRinse and repeat and repeat-Call Me Sal- (Sally, witch, Practical Magic)Pattern recognizedWe can see around cornersMagic to your eyes-Welp, Found My People-Autistic cultureTalking it out fills me upEverything makes sense!THE RUNNER UP 🥈Allyson Hogan:Comfort episodeWatch ‘til you know it by heartRecite every wordSpin reemergingHello again, my old friendI sink into youPlay the song againMedicine to scratch awayThe itch in my brainCongrats to our winners! You can see their stories here.Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:* An update on what to expect from the Autistic Culture podcast over the summer hiatus and what to look forward to in Season 4.* Dr Angela provides an update on her upcoming book ‘Am I Actually Autistic?: Dr. Angela Kingdon's Memoir and Self-Identification Guide to Processing the Identity Shock of a Late Autism Discovery & Living Unmasked’.* Discover the mission behind the Autistic Culture Institute and get early details on Neurodivergent Voices Live, a UK-based celebration of autistic authors, artists, podcasters, and performers coming in June 2026.* Explore how writing can help process late-diagnosis identity shock and unmasking in a world that wasn’t built for neurodivergent minds.* Masking refers to the conscious or unconscious suppression of natural autistic traits to conform to neurotypical expectations. While masking can aid short-term social acceptance, long-term masking may lead to exhaustion, anxiety, identity confusion, and burnout.* Unmasking allows space for joy: in sensory play, deep interests, honest expression, and bodily autonomy. It invites curiosity, creativity, and playfulness, not just survival.* Fables belong essentially to the oral tradition; they survive by being remembered and then retold in one's own words. When they are written down, particularly in the dominant language of instruction, they lose something of their essence. A strategy for reclaiming them is therefore to exploit the gap between the written and the spoken language. Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Moral of the Story’ ContestWhat’s the moral you want to pass on to our younger neurokin? Start there!PROMPT: If you were to write a fable in the style of Aesop’s fables about friendship, what would the moral be?⚠️Your fable may not be any longer than 500 words.This isn’t therapy.This is voice reclamation.Submit entry.Let Your Voice Be Heard.💌 Good luck, writers. We’re saving you a seat.THE ESSENTIALS:🖊️ Open to: Everyone🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, June 25th at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK💷 Prize: £10 each week📘 Publication: Winning entries go on our Substack and in the annual Neurodivergent Narratives anthologyTHE RULES:No PlagiarismNo Hate SpeechNo Explicit or Graphic ContentSubmit as many times as you wishYou do not need to be present or subscribe to participateEntries after the deadline will not be consideredAll decisions are finalFull Contest Rules are here.Use the hashtag #moralofthestory on social media to share this contest.Submit Your Entry Here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSes-dR34WBtfe7VYGx7wZRvqNhV8ykEGr4L9CHzNSjN5HVfFQ/viewformResources:Matt telling the Wind and the Sun parable is at 10:43 on the Neurodiversity PodcastBBC article on Aesop’s fables: https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/school-radio/articles/z73s6v4Aesops fables: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aesop%27s_FablesThe Miller, his Son, and their Donkey: https://www.shortkidstories.com/story/miller-son-donkey/Detailed list of morals: https://www.litscape.com/indexes/Aesop/Morals.html#google_vignetteLindsee Garlock-Thornton Haiuk Instagram: haikuwouldntyouSubstack link to ‘Am I Actually Autistic?: Dr. Angela Kingdon's Memoir and Self-Identification Guide to Processing the Identity Shock of a Late Autism Discovery & Living Unmasked’ - https://www.autisticculturepodcast.com/t/bookBuy a physical copy of the book here: https://books.by/autisticcultureRelated Episodes:Neurodivergent Narratives (Episode 84)Introducing the Weekly Writing Contest (Episode 130) - Writing Prompt #26I'm So Confused (Episode 132) - Writing...
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