In this episode of Autistic FM, we dive in with Philip, who shares his journey of living interwoven with autism, complex PTSD, and recovering from addiction. Hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Philip opens up about his late discovery of being neurodivergent and how it has influenced his life and healing process. Together, we explore the emotional complexity of reconciling with a turbulent past while building a hopeful future.

Philip's story is marked by courage as he recounts his experiences of growing up in an abusive environment, battling addiction, and finding solace and community through AA. His narrative paints a vivid picture of resilience, shedding light on the realities of living with multiple identities that often clash with societal expectations. Through his reflections, Philip provides invaluable insights into the process of self-discovery and acceptance.

This episode dives into the nuances of Philip's personal growth, from crafting a detailed "user manual" for himself to navigating relationships with authenticity. He discusses the significance of unmasking, the complexities of forgiveness versus acceptance, and how embracing his true self has led him to a more vibrant, fulfilled life.

Topics covered in Episode 30

• Complex PTSD and Autism: Exploring the intertwined nature of trauma and neurodivergence, and the challenges of late diagnosis.

• Overcoming Addiction: Philip’s journey through addiction recovery and how discovering his authentic self helped reshape his path.

• Self-Discovery and Acceptance: Crafting a personal "user manual" to better understand and navigate his identity and needs.

About Philip

Phillip Reyland is a tech founder and product strategist with a background in engineering, design, SEO, NLP, and consumer product development. He previously built an analytics platform to measure natural language performance and is now developing a technology-driven estate planning platform designed to simplify the process for nearly all American families.

Phillip is also an advocate for more thoughtful discussions around leadership and mental health in tech, challenging the glorification of narcissism in founder culture. He speaks openly about his experiences recovering from narcissistic abuse and navigating the highs and lows of startup life. Learn more at reyland.com

Content warnings

Please note that this episode contains discussions about complex PTSD, childhood abuse, experiences of addiction, and suicidal ideation. Please take care of yourself and listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Micky, an AI engineer from Australia and the creator of the NeuroTranslator app. Michael’s journey into understanding and embracing his autism began after his daughter’s diagnosis, sparking a profound exploration of his own neurodivergence. His experiences have fueled the creation of a tool that bridges the gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical communication, offering a new way to understand and connect.

Michael shares candid insights into the process of unmasking and the impact of late diagnosis on personal and professional realms. His story is a tapestry of discovering authenticity amidst the challenges of skill regression and misunderstandings. The development of the NeuroTranslator app stands as a testament to his commitment to easing communication barriers and fostering empathy.

As we delve into Michael’s transformation, he discusses the trials and triumphs of navigating relationships and career changes. The conversation highlights the importance of self-compassion and support systems in overcoming the initial turmoil of a new neurodivergent identity. Michael’s journey underscores the power of technology in creating inclusive spaces for those navigating similar paths.

Topics covered in Episode 28

• Discovering Neurodivergence: Michael’s awakening to his autistic identity after his daughter’s diagnosis and the transformative impact it had on his life.

• NeuroTranslator App: The creation and development of an app designed to enhance communication between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.

• Navigating Change: Insights into the personal challenges of unmasking, including skill regression and relationship dynamics.

About Micky

Micky is an AI engineer, as well as the creator of NeuroTranslator, an AI-powered mobile app designed to bridge the communication gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. As an autistic person in a neurodiverse marriage, Micky deeply understands the communication differences that exist between different neurotypes and built NeuroTranslator to help others navigate these complexities with greater ease.

His work has gained significant attention, with NeuroTranslator going viral on various social media platforms and soon to be featured in publications such as The Washington Post. Micky is passionate about making neurodivergent communication more accessible, ensuring that the tools he builds are both effective and financially accessible.

Beyond technology, Micky is a parent to neurodivergent children, bringing personal experience to his work. He is dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families improve their understanding of each other through AI-driven support.

TikTok: @mickydaniel

You can find the NeuroTranslater app on iOS and Google Play

Content warnings

Please note that this episode includes discussions of autism-related challenges, relationship misunderstandings, and emotional distress. Please take care of yourself and listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, I’m joined by Makay Davis, an inspiring educator specializing in special education and functional life skills. Makay shares her profound insights into the world of neurodiversity, stemming from her personal journey of discovering ADHD and autism within herself. Her mission is to create educational spaces that embrace autonomy and empower neurodivergent individuals to navigate life confidently.

Throughout our engaging conversation, Makay discusses how her life experiences, including growing up alongside a neurodivergent cousin, have shaped her teaching approach. She emphasizes the importance of balancing structure and choice to foster environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive without feeling constrained by rigid expectations. Makay’s approach focuses on cultivating functional life skills that resonate with students, allowing them to express themselves authentically.

Listeners can look forward to an in-depth exploration of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), the significance of autonomy in education, and how neurodiversity should be celebrated rather than stigmatized. Makay sheds light on strategies that enable neurodivergent individuals to harness their strengths and lead fulfilling lives.

Topics covered in Episode 27

• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): Understanding PDA and how rethinking autonomy impacts neurodivergent individuals in educational settings.

• Functional Life Skills Education: Makay's approach to teaching life skills that emphasize choice, autonomy, and empowerment for neurodiverse learners.

• Embracing Neurodiversity: The journey of recognizing and validating one’s unique neurodivergent identity and fostering inclusivity within communities.

About Makay Davis

Makay Davis is an educator with over a decade of experience in special education. Based in Sausalito, she runs a personalized teaching practice dedicated to helping neurodivergent individuals develop functional life skills and autonomy.

Her empathetic and innovative approach is informed by her own experiences with ADHD and autism, as well as a life spent growing up in different countries and supporting neurodivergent family members. This unique combination of lived experience and professional expertise—including a background in Special Education, Speech-Language Pathology, and specialized training in Pathological Demand Avoidance—has led to The Makay Method, an immersive model that prioritizes real-world learning experiences and celebrates every child’s unique strengths.

Content warnings

Please note that this episode includes discussions of childhood trauma, experiences of bullying, and mental health challenges including ADHD and autism spectrum. Please take care of yourself and listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we're joined by Janneke Parrish, a formidable advocate and activist within the tech industry. Known for her courage in standing up for workers' rights, Janneke shares her journey navigating life with autism, PTSD, and agoraphobia. She opens up about how becoming an outspoken advocate against workplace discrimination at her former employer, Apple, led to significant personal and professional challenges.

Janneke delves into the intersection of activism and autism, exploring her innate sense of justice and how it drives her to fight against systemic injustices. During the conversation, she discusses organizing labor movements and the hurdles faced when challenging powerful corporate structures. Janneke's story offers insights into the resilience required to take a stand and the toll such bravery extracts.

We also explore her ongoing efforts in law and literature aimed at supporting those who face similar battles. Janneke continues to be a powerful voice for change, navigating personal setbacks while advocating for the rights and dignity of workers everywhere.

Topics covered in Episode 26

• Neurodivergence and Justice: How Janneke's autism and strong sense of justice intersect to inspire her activism and drive for change.

• Workplace Discrimination: Discussing Janneke's experiences at Apple and the systemic issues she fought against, including discrimination and harassment.

• Building a Movement: The genesis of the Apple II movement and its impact on labor rights within the tech industry and beyond.

About Janneke Parrish

Janneke Parrish is a labour activist and tech organiser, known for her work in the #AppleToo movement. Her work has been instrumental in reshaping conversations around workers' rights within Silicon Valley and beyond. She is the author of “The Tech Worker's Guide to Unions."

You can find Janneke at JannekeParrish.com and on BlueSky.

Content Warnings

This episode contains discussions on mental health struggles, workplace discrimination, and experiences of harassment and assault. Please take care and listen with caution.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we have a vibrant conversation with Rebecca Kaplan, an exceptional stand-up comedian from New York City who brings her unique autistic perspective to the comedy scene. Rebecca shares her journey of embracing her autism diagnosis during the COVID pandemic and her path to using comedy as a platform to challenge stereotypes and societal norms surrounding autism and humor.

Rebecca takes us through her experiences of using comedy to express her voice, defy preconceived notions about autistic individuals, and create impactful humor that resonates with audiences. We explore how Rebecca overcame challenges such as social interaction difficulties and anxiety, turning them into strengths on stage. Her insights into observational comedy reveal how neurodivergent individuals can redefine the boundaries of humor.

Join us as we delve into the power of comedy in advocating for neurodiversity, discussing the role of humor in societal change and inclusion. Rebecca’s story highlights the importance of authenticity, the joy of finding one's voice, and the courage to tackle challenging topics with wit and warmth.

Topics covered in Episode 25

• Challenging Stereotypes: Rebecca's journey to stand-up comedy and proving that autistic individuals can be as hilarious and dynamic as anyone.

• Overcoming Anxieties: How Rebecca uses stand-up comedy to face public speaking fears and social challenges head-on.

• Comedy and Sociopolitical Commentary: Delving into Rebecca’s approach to blending humor with advocacy around autism and broader societal issues.

About Rebecca Kaplan

Rebecca Kaplan is a dynamic NYC stand-up comedian known for her fresh, witty, and unapologetically honest style. Challenging stereotypes about autism, she uses humor to spark meaningful conversations around neurodiversity and inclusion both on stage and off.

Beyond the spotlight, Rebecca hosts the popular podcast “Bad Fan Fic,” where she dives into the quirky and unexpected corners of pop culture.

Follow her journey on Instagram at @rebeccatkaplan.

Content warnings

This episode features discussions about mental health and neurodivergence, online harassment, discrimination, and sensitive topics within comedy. Please listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we engage in a deeply insightful conversation with Trina Albus, a content creator who bravely shares her experiences of discovering her neurodivergent identity in midlife. Trina opens up about her late diagnosis of autism and how this revelation has reshaped her understanding of herself, providing clarity and direction in her journey towards self-acceptance.

Trina discusses the pivotal role that social media played in her journey towards diagnosis, describing how TikTok's community helped validate her experiences and gave her the courage to seek professional assessment. We delve into her sensory processing challenges, the impacts of childhood bullying, and how these experiences have shaped her as an adult.

Listen in as Trina shares her journey of unmasking, setting boundaries, and finding empowerment in embracing her true self. Her story is a beacon for many navigating similar paths, emphasizing the importance of understanding, patience, and acceptance in the neurodivergent community.

Topics Covered in Episode 24

• Discovery and Diagnosis: Trina’s journey of self-discovery on social media, leading to a life-changing autism diagnosis at age 49.

• Sensory Experiences: The profound impact of sensory processing on daily life and the accommodations that have helped Trina thrive.

• Unmasking and Authenticity: The process of unmasking, setting boundaries, and the liberating experience of embracing one's true identity.

About Trina

Trina Albus is a skincare YouTuber from Venice, CA. She was very recently diagnosed with autism at age 49. After her diagnosis, she launched a new website and social media presence to help spread awareness about autism and create a supportive neurodivergent community. To her surprise and delight, the first TikTok skit she posted about being autistic has reached almost 1 million views so far.

You can find her on TikTok at @butyoudontlookautistic, on Instagram at @_butyoudontlookautistic and visit her website at trinaalbus.com/autism to sign up for her email list.

Content Warnings

Please be aware that this episode contains discussions about neurodivergence and autism diagnosis, sensory processing challenges, use of alcohol as a coping mechanism, childhood bullying, and complex trauma. Please take care of yourself and listen with consideration.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we are joined by Koda, who opens up about his experiences navigating life as a neurodivergent individual. Koda shares his journey, marked by early diagnoses of autism and ADHD, and how they have shaped his life. His story is deeply intertwined with the profound grief of losing his mother in 2021, a cornerstone of support in his life.

Throughout the episode, Koda discusses the challenges he faced following this loss, including his battles with mental health issues like BPD, and a period of homelessness. He reflects on the impact of these experiences on his mental well-being and his determination to find stability. Koda's narrative is one of resilience and courage, highlighting the importance of understanding and support for individuals who are neurodivergent.

We delve into Koda’s unique perspective on grief and loss, exploring how these experiences intersect with his identity. His account sheds light on the broader discussion of autism, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue, acceptance, and the need for societal changes to better accommodate neurodiverse individuals.

Topics covered in Episode 23

• Grief and Loss: Koda's experience with grief following the loss of his mother and how it affected him profoundly.

• Navigating Mental Health: Insight into Koda's struggles with ADHD, autism, and the impact of a BPD diagnosis.

• Resilience through Adversity: The journey through homelessness and finding stability, highlighting Koda’s resilience and determination.

About Koda

Koda (he/they) is a Pittsburgh-based individual whose journey reflects resilience and perseverance in the face of multiple challenges. Diagnosed with ADHD and autism during early childhood (under the now-retired classification of Pervasive Developmental Disorder–Not Otherwise Specified), Koda has spent much of his life navigating neurodivergence while grappling with significant grief.

In recent years, he has also managed the complexities of a BPD diagnosis, experienced chronic homelessness, and endured the end of a long-term relationship—an ordeal that has tested his resolve. Throughout these trials, Koda’s unwavering belief in the power of community, understanding, and collective support continues to shape his life and inspire those around him.

Trigger warnings

Please be aware that this episode contains discussions of grief and loss, childhood trauma, mental health struggles, homelessness, and PTSD. Listen with care and look after yourself.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Brandon, who embraces his unique identity as a therian, identifying with the spirit of a Chihuahua. Brandon courageously shares his experiences growing up with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3, discovering his gender identity, and the journey of self-expression through a virtual avatar. His insights on navigating daily life, societal expectations, and the challenge of balancing authenticity with privacy are both enlightening and thought-provoking.

Brandon discusses the importance of finding a safe space to be himself and how his online persona has empowered him to express his true nature without fear of judgment. He opens up about the struggles he faced during his childhood in a religious household, the pain of being bullied, and the relief of finding a community that embraces diversity. Through his story, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity and belonging for those living with neurodivergence.

The conversation touches on the ways Brandon has learned to navigate relationships, manage emotional distress, and the ongoing process of self-discovery. His story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, offering valuable perspectives on acceptance and the freedom to be one's authentic self in a world that can be intolerant towards differences.

Topics in this episode

• Therianthropy: Understanding Brandon's journey of identifying with the spirit of a Chihuahua, and what it means to embrace a therian identity not as a fandom, but as a core aspect of self.

• Navigating Neurodivergence: Challenges and revelations in living with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3, including masking, social interaction struggles, and the pursuit of self-acceptance.

• Identity Exploration: The complexities of exploring and asserting multiple layers of identity, from gender identity to living authentically amidst societal and familial pressures.
  

About Brandon

Brandon, affectionately known in his online persona as Brandon the Chihuahua, is navigating life as a therian with a late diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 3. Embracing the multilayers of his identity, Brandon has found solace in the online world, where he can express himself freely without constraints. He lives with his supportive fiancé and continues to explore what it means to live authentically and openly while fostering understanding and acceptance.

Content Warnings

This episode contains discussions of neurodivergence and Autism Spectrum Disorder, emotional distress from bullying and societal expectations, identity exploration in a religious family context, and a mention of a community tragedy related to death and suicide. Please take care of yourself and listen accordingly.