Autistic Culture Presents...

Autistic Culture Institute

This is the main feed for The Autistic Culture Podcast Network, the first podcast network created by and for Autistic people to celebrate our culture, our voices, and our contributions to the world. ACPN was created by a merger of Neurodivergent Experience and the Autistic Culture Podcast. This feed has all of our shows in one place.  Across our shows, we spotlight actually Autistic perspectives and celebrate the depth, brilliance, and diversity of the Autistic experience. Whether you’re Autistic, questioning, or an ally looking to learn, the Autistic Culture Podcast Network invites you into a community where your weird is welcome, your passions are powerful, and your identity is culture. While our content varies, our programming is rooted in the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture and grounded in the social model of disability, our network offers a range of shows that explore everything from advocacy and identity to history, creativity, and Autistic joy. Follow this feed and join a growing movement that redefines what it means to be Autistic. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Late Diagnosis Club: How Scott’s Grief and Burnout Led to His Late Autism Diagnosis

    3D AGO

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Scott’s Grief and Burnout Led to His Late Autism Diagnosis

    Warning: This episode includes discussion of terminal cancer, sudden bereavement, grief, burnout, and mental health struggles. Please listen with care. In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Scott Simpson, a late-identified Autistic and ADHD creator, former broadcast journalist, and widowed father who has been raising his son solo since 2016. After decades working in radio, Scott’s life began to unravel through grief, burnout, and the collapse of the structures that had quietly supported him for years. What followed was a search to understand executive functioning, ADHD, and eventually Autism. Together, Angela and Scott explore hidden support needs, burnout after loss, Autistic shutdown, identity through memoirs and community, and why many late-identified adults only recognise their needs once life’s scaffolding disappears. This is a conversation about grief, structure, survival, and finally understanding yourself. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Scott Simpson — Content creator, former broadcaster, and late-identified AuDHD parent You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Gifted kid, burnout, and late recognitionDiscussion: Special education and social confusionWidowhood, solo parenting, and hidden support needsRadio career collapse and autistic burnoutADHD diagnosis and later Autism recognitionStructure, scaffolding, and unmet needsKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces Scott Simpson, a creator and former radio professional whose late identification followed years of grief, burnout, and trying to understand why life had become so much harder. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Scott’s Story Scott was identified as “gifted” in childhood and placed into a specialist education program. While his intelligence was recognised early, his social struggles and deeper support needs were not. As an adult, he built a long career in broadcasting, married, became a father, and later experienced profound loss when his wife died of cancer while their son was still young. When career structure and family scaffolding fell away, Scott began exploring executive functioning, received an ADHD diagnosis, and later recognised Autism. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Gifted program: Early intelligence recognised, while deeper needs were missedSmart but struggling: Academic ability masking social confusionRelationship patterns: Trying hard without understanding the rulesSudden grief: Becoming a widowed father to a three-year-oldRadio collapse: Career pressure, impossible demands, and burnoutHidden scaffolding: Job structure and parenting routines quietly sustaining lifeADHD first: Executive functioning becomes the doorway to understandingAutism later: Shutdowns, overwhelm, and lifelong patterns making senseMemoirs mattered: Learning through Autistic voices and lived experienceSupport needs emerge: Struggles become visible once the structure disappears 4️⃣ Key Learnings High achievement can hide unmet support needs.Grief and burnout often expose needs that were once masked.Executive functioning struggles are often misunderstood as laziness or failure.Late recognition can come after life changes remove coping systems.Autistic voices and memoirs can be more powerful than diagnostic checklists.Support is often invisible until it is gone. 📌 Notice Board Scott’s Website Scott’s YouTube Channel 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
  2. The Neurodivergent Experience | Boreout vs Burnout: Burned Out or Just Bored?

    4D AGO

    The Neurodivergent Experience | Boreout vs Burnout: Burned Out or Just Bored?

    In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott explore the often-overlooked concept of boreout, and how it can feel almost identical to burnout, especially for neurodivergent people. They unpack how under-stimulation, not just stress or overwhelm, can lead to symptoms like anxiety, low mood, apathy, fatigue, and loss of motivation. From feeling “sick with boredom” to questioning why nothing feels engaging, they reflect on how easy it is to mislabel boreout as burnout. The conversation breaks down the key differences: burnout driven by too much, boreout driven by too little — but both leading to similar emotional and physical exhaustion. A relatable and eye-opening conversation about balance, stimulation, and why neurodivergent people often feel like they’re constantly walking a tightrope between too much and not enough. We’re really excited to now be part of the Autistic Culture Podcast Network — a space dedicated to amplifying neurodivergent voices, lived experience, and real conversations. Being part of this network means we can reach more people and continue building this community together. Our Sponsors: 🧘‍♀️ Ashley Dupuy – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy → https://bit.ly/ashleynde 🔗 Stay Connected Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience 🎧 The Neurodivergent Experience is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. ⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify 🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 2m
  3. Late Diagnosis Club: How KW Unlearned a Lifetime of Wrong Labels After Identifying as AuDHD

    MAY 1

    Late Diagnosis Club: How KW Unlearned a Lifetime of Wrong Labels After Identifying as AuDHD

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes KW Raney, a therapist, creative, and podcast host who identified as AuDHD in adulthood after years of misdiagnosis, burnout, and self-blame. As a child, KW was labelled with oppositional defiant disorder and grew up believing he was difficult, lazy, and broken. But decades later, recognition of ADHD, and later Autism, helped him reframe the struggles that had followed him since childhood. Together, Angela and KW explore the cost of wrong labels, Autistic burnout, meltdowns mistaken for behavioural problems, sensory overwhelm, masking through work and education, and the long process of learning how to accommodate yourself instead of fighting yourself. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: KW Raney — Therapist, creative, and AuDHD advocate You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the Chair Member introduction: Misdiagnosis, masking, ADHD discovery and later Autism recognitionDiscussion: ODD labels and childhood misunderstandingBurnout, depression, and reframing the pastMeltdowns, sensory overwhelm, and self-accommodationMusic, animals, and nervous system regulationTrusting your own internal compassKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces KW Raney, who reflects on how years of wrong labels shaped his identity, and how discovering he was AuDHD helped everything begin to make sense. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: KW’s Story KW was diagnosed with oppositional defiant disorder as a child, a label that framed his distress and overwhelm as bad behaviour rather than unmet needs. Despite academic success, he carried deep feelings of failure and self-blame into adulthood. It was only later, through recognising ADHD and then Autism, that he began to understand the lifelong patterns beneath those experiences. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights ODD label: Childhood distress framed as defiance instead of neurodivergenceHidden struggle: Good grades masking internal overwhelmAdult ADHD recognition: A workplace conversation changed the lensAutism realisation: Later patterns are becoming clear through a new frameworkBurnout reframe: Depression and suicidality viewed differently in hindsightMeltdowns misunderstood: Pressure-valve overload mistaken for behaviour problemsSelf-accommodation: Learning to support needs instead of suppressing themAnimal regulation: Comfort, pressure input, and nervous system calmMusic as lifeline: Emotional release, identity, and connectionCreative return: Rebuilding expression after burnoutInner compass: Learning to trust yourself over old labels 4️⃣ Key Learnings Wrong labels can shape identity for decades.Achievement does not cancel out struggle.Burnout is often misunderstood when neurodivergence is unseen.Meltdowns are overwhelm, not moral failure.Self-accommodation can be life-changing.Healing often begins when you trust your own experience. 📌 Notice Board https://substack.com/@mraskmorehttps://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203579170 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    1h 22m
  4. Late Diagnosis Club: How Sha’mya Was Diagnosed as Autistic as a Child But Didn’t Find Out Until High School

    APR 24

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Sha’mya Was Diagnosed as Autistic as a Child But Didn’t Find Out Until High School

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Sha’mya Jones, a graphic designer and entrepreneur who was diagnosed as Autistic in early childhood — but didn’t learn about it until she was a teenager. Sha’mya shares what it was like to grow up knowing she was different but not understanding why, navigating school, relationships, and identity without the language to describe her experience. From early academic success to social challenges and bullying, her story reflects the complexity of being both supported and left in the dark. Together, Angela and Sha’mya explore masking, college burnout, creative identity, and what it means to build a life and business that reflects who you truly are. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Sha’mya Jones — graphic designer, entrepreneur, and Autistic self-advocate You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Early diagnosis, late awarenessDiscussion: Childhood differences and school experiencesIEP meeting and discovering her diagnosisMasking, bullying, and social challengesCollege life, burnout, and independenceArt, identity, and creative expressionEntrepreneurship and neurodivergent designRepresentation and visibility 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces Sha’mya Jones, a graphic designer and entrepreneur whose work centres on neurodivergent and underrepresented communities, particularly entrepreneurs of colour. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Sha’mya’s Story Sha'mya was diagnosed as Autistic as a toddler, but her diagnosis was not shared with her until she was in high school during an IEP meeting. Growing up, she sensed she was different, often finishing work early, helping classmates, and connecting more easily with teachers than peers. Despite having accommodations, she navigated childhood without the language to understand her experiences. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Early diagnosis, hidden identity: Diagnosed in early childhood but not told until high schoolFeeling different: Awareness of being out of step with peers from a young ageTeacher connection: Easier relationships with adults than classmatesIEP moment: Learning about her diagnosis during a school meetingMasking and bullying: Navigating teasing, social confusion, and self-protectionCuriosity misunderstood: Being perceived as rude for asking direct questionsCollege burnout: Over-involvement, pandemic disruption, and exhaustionCreative identity: Art as expression and pathway to careerEntrepreneurship: Building a business centred on neurodivergent clientsRepresentation: Highlighting Autistic women and people of colour 4️⃣ Key Learnings Being diagnosed early does not guarantee understanding or support.Without language, differences can lead to confusion and self-doubt.Masking and social challenges often emerge more strongly over time.Creative expression can provide clarity and identity.Representation matters — especially for marginalised Autistic voices.Self-understanding is an ongoing process, not a single moment. 📌 Notice Board Sha’mya’s LinkedInPrisma kind Design NewsletterPrisma Kind Design WebsiteKo-Fi (for tipping)Brand Check-In SurveyFree Brand Clarity Checklist Brand Calm-Down Kit (paid audit and reset)Signature 2-tiered Brand Package (currently looking to book 3-4 beta clients to test and improve her offer)  📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    31 min
  5. Late Diagnosis Club: How Daria Realised She Was Autistic 10 Years After Her Son’s Diagnosis

    APR 17

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Daria Realised She Was Autistic 10 Years After Her Son’s Diagnosis

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Daria Brown, creator of Affect Autism and host of the We Chose Play podcast. Daria shares her journey from parent advocate to late-identified Autistic adult, reflecting on the decade between her son’s diagnosis and her own. What began as a search for how to support her son eventually led to a deeper understanding of herself, reframing lifelong traits, parenting experiences, and ways of relating to the world. They discuss DIR Floortime, rejecting compliance-based approaches, and the role of connection, regulation, and play in both parenting and personal growth. This is a conversation about unlearning, identity, and what happens when the lens finally shifts. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Daria Brown — Parent advocate, podcaster, and late-identified Autistic adult You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Parenting, advocacy, and late self-recognitionDiscussion: Son’s diagnosis, seizures, and early understanding of autismMedical model, ableism, and the “fixing” mindsetDiscovering Autistic voices during the pandemicQuestioning identity and the late diagnosis journeyDIR Floortime, connection, and rejecting compliance-based therapyKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces Daria Brown, a long-time parent advocate and creator of Affect Autism, whose work focuses on supporting families through DIR Floortime and neurodiversity-affirming approaches. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Daria’s Story Daria’s journey into the autism world began with her son’s diagnosis following a serious medical event involving seizures and brain inflammation. At the time, her understanding of autism was shaped by ableist narratives and a belief that her role was to “fix” her child. Over the years, as she supported her son and connected with other families, Daria became deeply involved in advocacy and alternative approaches like DIR Floortime. A decade after her son’s diagnosis, Daria received her own autism diagnosis, reframing her identity and life experiences. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Early assumptions: Autism initially understood through an ableist, deficit-based lensMedical trauma: Son’s seizures, hospitalisation, and lasting impact on parentingDIR Floortime: Choosing connection and co-regulation over complianceABA tension: Navigating systems that prioritise behaviour over individual needsLate recognition: Seeing lifelong traits through an Autistic lensImposter syndrome: Questioning identity despite strong resonanceReframing traits: From “bossy” or “controlling” to regulation and coping strategiesSpecial interests: Intense projects, creativity, and lifelong patternsCommunity: Finding belonging through shared neurodivergent experiences 4️⃣ Key Learnings Understanding autism often begins with outdated or ableist assumptions that require unlearning.Parenting a neurodivergent child can reshape identity and self-understanding.Connection and co-regulation are foundational to both parenting and personal growth.Traits once labelled negatively may be reframed as adaptive or regulating.Community plays a crucial role in reducing isolation and building self-acceptance. 📌 Notice Board Affect Autism Website Kieran Rose, The Autistic Advocate Kathleen Platzman, PhD We Choose Play Podcast The Neurodivergent experience Podcast 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    43 min
  6. Late Diagnosis Club: How Shyloe Learned to Care for Her Sensitive Heart After Late Diagnosis

    APR 10

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Shyloe Learned to Care for Her Sensitive Heart After Late Diagnosis

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Shyloe Fayad, a late-diagnosed Autistic school counsellor and somatic experiencing practitioner based on the stolen land of the Syilx people of the Okanagan in Canada. Shyloe works both within schools and in private practice, supporting neurodivergent people, mixed race communities, and teens and adults navigating depression and anxiety. Together, Angela and Shyloe explore sensitivity, boundaries, and the quiet but radical act of honouring your own needs in a culture that often teaches you not to. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Shyloe Fayad — Late-diagnosed Autistic School counsellor and somatic experiencing practitioner You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Learning to trust your own needsDiscussion: Sensitivity, boundaries, and self-trustLate diagnosis and identity integrationCultural conditioning and productivity expectationsEmotional processing and internal timingAccountability vs compassionKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela welcomes Shyloe Fayad to the club, introducing a conversation centred on emotional sensitivity, self-trust, and rebuilding your relationship with yourself after a late diagnosis. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Shyloe’s Story Shyloe was raised in environments that prioritised productivity, deadlines, and external expectations over internal needs. Over time, this led to a disconnection from her own timing and instincts, something she began to recognise and unlearn following her late Autism diagnosis. Her work as a counsellor and somatic practitioner informs this perspective, grounding the conversation in the body, nervous system, and the lived experience of navigating a world that often teaches people not to trust themselves. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Sensitivity: Experiencing the world deeply and needing space to processSelf-trust: Relearning how to listen to internal signalsCultural conditioning: Being taught your needs are “less important”Productivity pressure: Deadlines overriding well-beingWomen and masking: Social expectations shaping behaviourAccountability vs compassion: The tension between rules and humanityBlack-and-white thinking: Wanting clear rules in complex social situationsCommunity: Drawing strength from like-minded peopleEmotional care: Protecting your “sensitive heart” 4️⃣ Key Learnings You have been taught not to trust your needs — and that can be unlearned.Sensitivity is not a weakness, but something to be protected.There is no perfect rulebook for being human — only ongoing adjustment.Accountability and compassion must coexist.Late diagnosis is the beginning of rebuilding self-trust.Community can help you navigate a world that feels misaligned.Honouring your needs is a practice, not a one-time decision.You can start again — as many times as you need. 📌 Notice Board Contact Shyloe: radicalwondering@gmail.comShyloe’s InstagramRadical Wondering InstagramFacebook: Shyloe Fayad 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  7. Late Diagnosis Club: How Carolyn Discovered She Was Autistic Through Her Own Podcast

    APR 3

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Carolyn Discovered She Was Autistic Through Her Own Podcast

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Carolyn Kiel, host of the award-winning podcast Beyond 6 Seconds, who discovered she was Autistic not before, but through her podcasting journey. Together, Angela and Carolyn explore late discovery through connection, the limits of traditional narratives around autism, workplace misunderstandings, and how language and self-understanding can transform everyday life. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Carolyn Kiel — Host of the Beyond 6 Seconds Podcast You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Discovering autism through podcastingDiscussion: Representation, stereotypes, and lived experienceLate diagnosis and identity integrationSelf-identification vs formal diagnosisPost-diagnosis adjustments and accommodationsAutistic joy and special interestsKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces Carolyn Kiel, host of Beyond 6 Seconds, a long-running podcast exploring human experiences and neurodiversity. Carolyn shares how her podcasting journey began as a creative outlet, and unexpectedly became the pathway to discovering her own Autistic identity. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Carolyn’s Story Carolyn began podcasting in 2018 to build creative expression and practise one-on-one conversations. As an introverted and self-described shy person, interviewing others about their passions offered a structured way to connect. Through her podcast, she encountered members of the disability and neurodivergent community, including Autistic creators. Hearing their experiences, particularly how autism felt rather than how it was externally described, led to a growing sense of recognition. After further research, particularly around how autism presents in women, Carolyn began to question whether she might be Autistic. She later pursued a formal diagnosis in her mid-40s, which confirmed her understanding and led her to pivot her podcast toward neurodivergent voices and intersectional experiences. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Discovery through others: Recognising yourself in the lived experiences of othersBeyond stereotypes: Moving past narrow 80s/90s definitions of autismSelf-identification vs diagnosis: Barriers, access, and validity of both pathsSocial confusion: Difficulty navigating conversations, timing, and group dynamicsCommunication shifts: Learning to verbalise internal processing needsAccommodations: Fidgets, earplugs, sunglasses, and sensory awarenessPodcasting as control: Creative ownership, structure, and autonomyIntersectionality: Exploring neurodivergence across race, gender, and identityCorporate navigation: Developing “scripts” to survive workplace culture 4️⃣ Key Learnings Late diagnosis can emerge through connection and shared stories, not just clinical pathways.Understanding internal experience is often more powerful than external definitions.Self-identification is valid, particularly where diagnostic barriers exist.Giftedness and competence can mask significant support needs.Small accommodations can meaningfully improve daily life.Workplace challenges are often rooted in misunderstanding, not inability.Identity integration is an ongoing process, not a single moment of clarity. 📌 Notice Board Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent peopleRecommended Episode: Interview with Tiffany Hammond (A Day With No Words) 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    53 min
  8. Late Diagnosis Club: How Michael Discovered He Was Autistic After Years of Anxiety Misdiagnosis

    MAR 27

    Late Diagnosis Club: How Michael Discovered He Was Autistic After Years of Anxiety Misdiagnosis

    In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Michael Kelly, a late-diagnosed Autistic artist and recent PhD graduate in design whose work explores how art can help us think about thinking. Michael’s path to diagnosis began unexpectedly during his wife Susie’s autism assessment. After sitting in on several sessions as her carer, the clinician suggested that Michael pursue an assessment as well, leading to his own diagnosis a year later. Together, Angela and Michael explore childhood solitude and special interests, creative practice as a way of understanding the mind, and how art can disrupt the systems that shape our thinking. 🪑 Attendees Chair: Dr Angela Kingdon — Author, community-builder, and Autistic advocate Guest: Michael Kelly — Autistic artist, designer, and researcher You: The Listener! 🗒️ Meeting Agenda Opening remarks from the ChairMember introduction: Growing up as the “weird kid” and finding refuge in books and ideasDiscussion: Philosophy, art practice, and early adult burnoutPsychosis, misdiagnosis, and years labelled as anxietyAutistic masking, sensory overwhelm, and family patternsArt as inquiry: performance, sculpture, and metacognitionArtificial intelligence, normativity, and the role of artistsKey learningsClub announcements 🧾 Minutes from the Meeting 1️⃣ Opening Remarks Angela introduces Michael Kelly, a late-diagnosed Autistic artist and newly minted PhD graduate whose research explores how art can help us understand thinking itself, particularly in the context of emerging technologies and artificial intelligence. 2️⃣ Member Introduction: Michael’s Story Michael describes growing up as “the weird kid,” finding comfort in solitary interests like books, dinosaurs, comics, and drawing. As an only child, he often retreated into imagination and reflection. Experiences that, in hindsight, align with Autistic ways of engaging with the world. After studying philosophy at Durham University in the UK, Michael pursued creative work and eventually a career in advertising before experiencing severe burnout and psychosis in his mid-20s. For years afterwards, he lived under an anxiety diagnosis without understanding the deeper neurodivergent context behind his experiences. 3️⃣ Discussion Highlights Only-child solitude: Safe space for imagination, reading, and deep thinkingEarly interests: Dinosaurs, comics, drawing, theology, and philosophyAdvertising burnout: Workplace pressure and sensory overload leading to psychosisMisdiagnosis: Years labelled with anxiety before autism was consideredPartner recognition: Sitting in on Susie’s autism assessment sparked Michael’s ownMasking and sensory overwhelm: Eye contact, social performance, and inherited patternsArt as inquiry: Performance art, sculpture, and artistic experiments exploring the mindMetacognition: Using art to examine how humans think about thinkingAI and normativity: Concerns about artificial intelligence reinforcing “average” thinking 4️⃣ Key Learnings Late discovery often begins with recognition by someone close to us.Years of anxiety or other diagnoses can obscure underlying neurodivergence.Creative practice can become a powerful tool for understanding internal experience.Masking and sensory overwhelm often shape lifelong coping strategies.Artists may play an important role in questioning the systems and technologies shaping our future. 📌 Notice Board Michael’s Website 📣 Club Announcements 🎧 The Late Diagnosis Club is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. 💬 Join our online meetups and community at latediagnosis.club. 📌 Check the LDC Notice Board for Member Contributions 💜 There is a small charge — but no one is turned away for lack of funds. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast 🎙️ Executive Producers: Amy Burns, Anamaria B Call, Andrew Banner, Anna Goodson, Ashley Apelzin, Audrea Volker, Ben Coulson, Brian Churcek, Cappy Hamper, Carley Biblin, Charlene Deva, Chloe Cross, Clay Duhigg, Clayton Oliver, Danny Dunn, Daria Brown, David Garrido, Emily Burgess, Eric Crane, Erik Stenerud, Fiona Baker, Grace Norman, Helen Shaddock, Jaimie Collins, Jason Killian, Jen Unruh, Jennifer Carpenter, Julia Tretter, Kathie Watson-Gray, Kenneth Knowles, Kira Cotter, Kristine Lang, Kyle Raney, Llew P Williams, Laura Alvarado, Laura De Vito, Laura Provonsha, Lily George, Nelly Darmi, Nigel Rogers, Rachel Miller, Tim Scott, Tyler Kunz, Victoria Steed, Yanina Wood. 🎧 Producers: AJ Knight, Bobby Simon, Da Kovac, Eleanor Collins, Emily Griffiths, Hannah Hughes, Jennifer Kemp, Jonas Fløde, Kate F, Katie N Benitez, Kendra Murphy, Lisa Dennys, Logan Wall, Louise Lomas, Melissa Nance, Nicola Owen, Rebecka Johansson, Sam Morris, Sarah Hannah Morris. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    45 min
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About

This is the main feed for The Autistic Culture Podcast Network, the first podcast network created by and for Autistic people to celebrate our culture, our voices, and our contributions to the world. ACPN was created by a merger of Neurodivergent Experience and the Autistic Culture Podcast. This feed has all of our shows in one place.  Across our shows, we spotlight actually Autistic perspectives and celebrate the depth, brilliance, and diversity of the Autistic experience. Whether you’re Autistic, questioning, or an ally looking to learn, the Autistic Culture Podcast Network invites you into a community where your weird is welcome, your passions are powerful, and your identity is culture. While our content varies, our programming is rooted in the 10 Pillars of Autistic Culture and grounded in the social model of disability, our network offers a range of shows that explore everything from advocacy and identity to history, creativity, and Autistic joy. Follow this feed and join a growing movement that redefines what it means to be Autistic. 🌈 Celebrate autistic voices with early access, ad-free listening, and our full archive at AutisticCulturePlus.com 🌐 Visit www.autisticculturepodcastnetwork.com 📲 Follow us on Instagram: @autisticculturepodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Autistic Culture Institute
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Autistic Culture Institute
  • Show Website
    Autistic Culture Presents...

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