Guest Blog: Pods of Possibility

Read now (5 mins) | Autistic Ang Unmasks Minds in the World of Neurodiversity

Guest Blog | by Autistic Ang

February 8, 2024

Hey there, curious minds! Autistic Ang here, ready to take you on an extended tour of the unbelievable world of podcasting and autism—my two favorite realms. If you’re scratching your head wondering who the heck I am, I’m a late-blooming member of the neurodivergent club who stumbled upon this revelation just two years ago at the not-so-tender age of 38. And guess what? A few months after that lightbulb moment, I decided to hit the mic and start a podcast. Because why not, right? This decision came after I listened to several podcasts hosted by late-diagnosed/identified autistics, then went in search of more and wondered why there wasn’t a more extensive selection for me to choose from. There was a plethora of podcasts for parents of autistic children, but not nearly enough just for autistic adults.

The Autistic Cultural Lens

Embarking on this podcast adventure felt like setting sail on unchartered waters with a crew that views the world through a kaleidoscopic lens, one that magnifies the colors of justice, originality, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. Imagine these lenses as not just spectacles but as portals to a realm where the nuances of the neurodivergent experience come alive.

As I navigate this cultural landscape, each twist and turn reveals a new facet of the diverse minds that contribute to the lively mosaic of neurodiversity. The journey unfolds before me like a book, with every podcast episode serving as a chapter that delves into the intricacies of our unique perspectives.

Through my lens of justice, I examine the advocacy and challenges faced by the neurodivergent community, shedding light on the pursuit of equality and inclusion.

Originality becomes my guiding star, steering me toward the innovative ideas, talents, and creativity that flourish within the neurodivergent spectrum, often overlooked or misunderstood.

Intellectual Appetite and Podcasts

So, here I am, this super-thirsty knowledge-seeker on a quest to learn more about the world of autism. Podcasts are like my treasure map, guiding me through a vast terrain of information. I’m drawn to them and the people who are brave enough to bare their souls to the world. From quirky historical tidbits that make you raise an eyebrow to my most recent meltdown, my podcast is where the nerdy thrill-seeker in me finds pure bliss. Trust me, the rabbit holes I’ve explored would make Alice herself a bit jealous.

Each episode becomes a new interval in my expedition for insight, a journey fueled by an insatiable curiosity that only the neurodivergent mind can truly grasp.

Fairness Awareness and Championing Causes

Now, let’s plunge into the domain of justice, a concept that’s practically ingrained in our identity. Autistic individuals embody the spirit of fairness, kind of like the Avengers championing the cause of justice. In the world of podcasts, we transform this medium into our battleground for advocacy. It’s not merely about my personal journey; it’s a collective effort aimed at challenging stereotypes, amplifying the voices of the neurodiverse, and essentially assuming the role of warriors for what’s right. Let’s face it—the world could use a bit of shaking up.  

Creative Expression and Empowerment

But here’s the real magic of podcasting—it extends beyond mere facts and figures. It serves as a canvas for my soul. As Autistic Ang, I unearthed a voice deeply rooted within me, a voice yearning for acknowledgment. Much like The Autistic Culture Podcast, mine transcends being just a show; it’s a journey of self-discovery, a therapy session with a mic, and an open invitation for everyone to join in. Through the art of storytelling, I’ve encountered a profound sense of empowerment. The essence lies not only in sharing experiences but in building a community—a space where every voice reverberates and contributes to the collective human experience.

Connecting with the Neurodivergent Community

Speaking of community, the connections formed through podcasting within the neurodivergent landscape are incredible. It’s like finding your tribe in the vast expanse of the digital world. Through emails and messages, I’ve connected with people who share similar experiences, challenges, and triumphs. The podcast becomes a meeting point, a virtual campfire where stories are shared, advice is exchanged, and a sense of belonging flourishes. It’s not just a platform for me but a hub for building a network of support and understanding. And I couldn’t be more grateful for it, especially after going nearly four decades feeling like I didn’t belong anywhere.

Navigating Late-Discovered Autism

Now, the heart of the matter: late-discovered autism. Discovering my neurodivergence later in life was like finally finding that damn elusive Waldo. It explains my quirks, struggles, and strengths that have puzzled me for decades. My podcast became a raw, unfiltered documentation of this journey. (And by unfiltered, I mean a bit sweary!) It’s a space where I explore the complexities of late-discovered autism, share the “aha” moments, and unravel the threads of self-discovery. Through each episode, I invite listeners to join me on this roller-coaster ride of revelation because it’s never too late to understand and embrace who you truly are. Think about the multitude of people who spend their ENTIRE lives unaware of their autism, carrying a sense of having overlooked a crucial aspect of themselves until their final moments. We’re fortunate—no matter how late in life—to have figured this out about ourselves. 

The Therapeutic Power of Podcasting

Let’s talk therapy. Podcasting, for me, is therapeutic. It’s a cathartic process of sharing vulnerabilities, achievements, and everything in between. It’s like having a conversation with the world, a way to externalize thoughts and feelings that might otherwise stay locked inside. The podcast serves as a digitial confessional of sorts, a safe space where I can be me and not fear judgment. And guess what? The therapeutic benefits aren’t one-sided. Through listener feedback, I’ve discovered that the shared vulnerability creates a ripple effect, fostering empathy and understanding among a diverse audience. I created the podcast so others could see themselves in me despite only being a few months into my late-discovered journey. However, I regularly ask questions about aspects of the autistic experience I don’t understand, and the emails from listeners with the answers to those questions have been beyond gratifying.

Nurturing the Culture of Autism

I extend a call to my fellow neurodivergent peeps, urging you to step boldly onto the stage and contribute to the richness of autistic culture. Whether through podcasts, artistic expressions, or any other medium, each of us possesses a distinctive lens through which the world can be perceived. Embrace and amplify these diverse perspectives, for they not only enrich our communal understanding but also foster the collective growth of the neurodivergent community.

I hope what I shared can serve as inspiration for you to embark on your unique ventures, shaping and advancing our culture through the power of your voice and the authenticity of your experiences. I also hope the digital world resonates with the colorful narratives of our neurodivergent tribe, creating waves of understanding and acceptance that extend far beyond the confines of any single podcast.

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Guest Author Bio:

I'm Angela Walker, aka Autistic Ang, writer and author, discovered my autistic identity later in life at age 38. Born in Japan and having served five years in the United States Air Force, I bring a unique blend of experiences to my writing. Currently residing in Central New York, I channel my diverse background into my work as a writer, copyeditor, and proofreader. My journey through different cultures and professions enriches my perspective, and my goal is always to connect with other autistics and remind them that we're all on this crazy journey together and that hopefully what I share about my own journey is relatable to those who went so long thinking they were broken. 

Resources and links for more Autistic Ang:

• Podcast : Adulthood…with a Chance of Autism

• Substack

• Public Journal Series