Today’s Autistic Moment: A Podcast for Autistic Adults by An Autistic Adult

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

On April 11th, 2025, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. announced that by this Fall we will know what is causing the Autism Epidemic. A week later RFK announced that they would be creating an Autism registry that was changed a month later to be an Autism database.

Philip King-Lowe hosts a 1 1/2 hour documentary that begins with a brief look at where Autism research and politics have brought us, and now faces collapse by RFK's plans. Philip will be joined by five Autistic individuals. Sam Farmer. Becca Lory Hector. Joyner Emerick. Michael Fuell. Jillian Nelson. The guests will share their reactions and concerns about RFK's announcements and how they are impacting the Autism community. Later they will share recommendations to advocate for the intersectional identities within the Autistic community.

The last 1/2 hour, AJ Locashio and Philip King-Lowe will introduce you to Autistic Advocates United: An Autistic & Allies Grassroots Movement. A movement that is bringing together an inclusive diverse community of Autistics and allies to organize advocacy activities to inspire community conversations and create systemic change to stop us from going backwards on the progress we have made.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Carole Jean-Whittington and Philip are co-hosting the Summer of Self-Care Series with Lee-Anne Reuber. Lee-Anne and her team at Sekond Skin Society have created an app that lets Autistic and disabled people customize workouts, like yoga, at their own pace. The app includes feedback and voices from the community to make sure it works for everyone. In our discussion, we talk about how people in larger bodies shouldn’t feel pressured to change themselves just to fit into a fitness routine. Instead, we focus on finding ways to appreciate and honor your body as it is. The conversation is clear and helpful, with tips for enjoying fitness in a way that works for you.

Please go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Autistics are among the first to think outside the boxes of social normativity. Autistic question why things in the world must be as they are. Autistics are the first to say "no." Autistics are living outside of the binary systems of society. Jax Bayne and Philip will talk about Autistics need open, safe spaces so we can help each other by thinking past the either/or binary to decolonize society and live authentically.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for all available versions of the transcript.

Jillian Nelson, the Policy Director at The Autism Society of Minnesota and Philip bring you a profound conversation in a time when Queer and Autistic people are being marginalized so aggressively in 2025. Jillian and Philip will talk about how Autistic and our allies for Queer and Autistic people can advocate for and with our communities.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts for this episode.

Some doctors wrongfully believe that Autistic people do not know that our own bodies are different and need better medical care. Recently there have been attacks on the bodily autonomy of Autistic people, in particular but not limited to Autistics who are transgender. This confusion is further complicated as the health care that many marginalized groups of people are the mascots for governmental legislation. David and Philip will talk about why Autistic people need to speak up for ourselves to lead the way for systemic change regarding our bodies as an important aspect of who we are.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Many Autistics are deciding to mask ourselves in the current political atmosphere. Our pathological demand avoidance is a powerful tool so that we can say no to these unjust rules and not be someone's tool of oppression.  Matthew and Philip will talk about masking as part of our multidimensional existence as Autistic people. 

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The first two weeks of Autism Acceptance Monthhave been very difficult given recent statements made by misinformed individuals.  On this episode of Today’sAutistic Moment, Philip will have some things to say about all of that in the first segment.  In segments two, three and fourwe will be hearing from Emily Goldberg and Anna Voight with the Autism Mentorship Program.  The Autism Mentorship Program brings in Autistic Adults to mentor Autistic teens and youth to provide them with a positive space to be themselves.  Anna herself is Autistic and a mentor who will talk about her experience working with Autistic teens and youth has helped her to be a leader and encourages her mentee to be a leader in their own life.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Jenna Olson, a graduate from Minnesota College & Community joins Philip to tell her Autistic Story. Jenna will talk about how MICC helped prepare her to be a leader in her work and life. As you listen to Jenna, you will hear what Autistic leaders who are given a chance to receive a college education in an environment that accepts them, can achieve. Jenna works as a very successful pharmacy technician. As you listen to Jenna, you will see that she is one of many MICC's success stories.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

So much of what is happening for Autistic Adults and our intersectional communities is so overwhelming. We are feeling the emotions of anger, sadness, fear, helplessness and even panic. Autistics need some advice about what we do not have control over and what we do have control over. Becca Lory Hector, our self-care specialist joins Philip to talk about taking care of ourselves by looking after what we do have control over.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

Carole Jean-Whittington and Philip will discuss the concept of Autistic leadership by emphasizing its non-hierarchical structure and collaborative nature. We will highlight self leadership as self-compassion, noting that Autistic leaders often lead by example within the Autistic community. Carole will talk about the amazing ways that Autistic women are leading the way by unveiling who they are.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs were designed to help businesses become better places for marginalized groups to be accommodated.  DEI initiatives were working so that people with disabilities could access services and jobs. Since the current administration began, DEI programs are being eliminated, and companies are discontinuing their DEI programs to comply with the new laws.  Kala Allen Omeiza and I are going to discuss the impact of DEI erasure for Black Autistic communities.  Kala will emphasize the importance of prioritizing actions over arguments and staying true to values. Kala will highlight the challenges of being a DEI hire and the need for structural changes.  Kala and I will also talk about the necessity of community building and interdependence to navigate these challenges effectively. 

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In a time when racism, sexism and ableism is socially acceptable, what does Black Autistic Leadership look like?
Shalese Heard joins Philip to talk about what Black Autistic Leadership looks like and how they can be proactive in a time of social upheaval. 

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A.J. Locashio, Jessica Jahns and Philip will talk in detail about the focus for Today’s Autistic Moment in 2025.  How are Autistics multidimensional? Autistics are Neurological. Physical. Cultural. Awareness. Avoidance through masking. Seeking. Relational. Personal. Social. Engaging.  Autistics have so many opportunities to lead in our intersectional identities to influence social change.  A.J., Jessica, and I will talk about the many ways that Autistics can cocreate environments where we can get our support needs met through collaboration and community building with other Neurodivergent people. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Join the celebration of five years and 100 episodes of the podcast that has brought Autistic Adults to talk with Philip about the experience of being Autistic in an intersectional world. The 100th show is a festival featuring clips from 14 past episodes, new music, and guest interviews with Daren Howard, Dr. Devon Price. Matthew Lawrence. Sara Swan. A.J. Locashio and Jessica Jahns. There are two parts to this episode between an intermission of some upbeat music. You are invited to join the party.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts for this or any other episode.

In this wrap up episode for Season 4, Dr. Angela Kingdon from the Autistic Culture podcast joins Philip for a discussion about Embracing the Intersectional Autistic Culture.  All of the episodes in 2024 have been focusing on our Intersectional Autistic Adult Communities.  During this episode we will be exploring what embracing the Intersectional communities means so that all of us feels like we belong together.  We will talk about engaging with the diversity of Neurodivergent people and empowering them to keep embracing each other as we journey into an uncertain future.  At the end of this episode is the end of the year dedication to all guests, sponsors, and our amazing audience.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Matthew Lawrence the #ActuallyAutistic Coach joins Philip to dive into the intersections of Autistic and Jewish identities. WE will talk about navigating faith, community, self-advocacy within Jewish and Neurodivergent spaces. This episode will talk about how the Jewish and Autistic Cultures meet and challenge each other. This is a great opportunity for the audience to get some great insight to self-care that works for all cultures and traditions.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com to read or download the transcripts.

A lot of rural areas are great places to live with less noise, traffic and without the crowds and rush of urban or suburban cities.  However, many Autistics live in rural areas where the resources they need for support and acceptance are outdated.  Many rural areas have residents who that are dismissive of Autistics and make judgements about how "disabled" they are or assume that they are fleecing the system. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Anxiety and stress escalate for many Autistics to travel. Sensory needs can become overwhelming. The social interaction can put Autistics on edge. The change of routines beginning with the change of where they sleep, to where their safe spaces are (or don't exist), and feeling uncomfortable can be too much to handle. Shalese Heard, the Travel Goddess is an Autistic traveler joins Philip to share their experiences and some advice to help make traveling less stressful for Autistic Adults.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com, this episode will be the first one down because it is the newest show. When you see the episode page, scroll down to the written documents and click on the episode title for the transcript you want. Scroll further down to read and follow the transcript from the website.

This episode will focus on navigating the workplace and finding ways to work with your strengths, including job-crafting, preventing burnout, and navigating the disclosure.  This episode celebrates October as Disability Employment Month and features Ludmila Praslova, author of The Canary Code: A Guide to Neurodiversity, Dignity, and Intersectional Belonging at Work. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is now integrated into web browsers, social media, mobile devices, with companies like Microsoft, Adobe, and Meta creating their own applications. For Autistic Adults, AI offers benefits such as enhanced communication tools, personalized learning experiences, and assistive technologies that can improve independence.  However, there are also risks to consider, including over-reliance on AI, privacy concerns, potential biases in information, and the lack of human interaction. Kathryn Parsons, who is an experienced Autistic leader in digital marketing, will emphasize that Autistics can effectively utilize AI when it compliments human supports and helps you use it wisely and safely.  Join us for this explanatory show.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

In this episode of Today’s Autistic Moment, Nicole LeBlanc will join Philip in the first segment to talk about the challenges of finding adequate and affordable housing as reasons why many Autistics live with unsupportive people. Becca Lory Hector will Philip in segment 3 and 4 to provide you with helpful tips about how to handle difficult people by setting and maintaining good boundaries, by creating safe spaces and routines to help you regulate.  We want to help Autistic Adults to feel safe and happy in your homes.  Join us for this informative show.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com to read and/or download the transcripts.

The Summer of Self-Care Series concludes with Lisa Morgan and Philip talking about grief management & support. Autistics often experience disenfranchised grief. Grief is a very natural process. Listen to Lisa talk about the many experiences that cause grief, and how Autistics can manage and get the supports they need.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com click on the episode you want to listen to, and you will find the transcript.

"Sexual abuse is any kind of sexual action that is harmful to us that we do not consent to, that we do not want, and it can also be something we're unable to consent to.  Anybody who is in a historically marginalized group, we are often times seen as less than human. When someone sees us as less than human, they believe that they have the right to do with us as they would like." Due to the sensitive nature of the topic, some content may not be suitable for all listeners, discretion is advised. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

In this episode Oluwatobi Odugunwa talks with Philip about their experiences of finding inclusion in the various communities they intersect with.  We will talk about the importance of finding others within each of the identities we are linked with, and search for opportunities for them to find companionship with all of them together. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

Daren Howard and Philip discuss the intersections of Autistic, Bisexual, other sexual identities, by sharing personal experiences of challenges and self-acceptance. They will emphasize the importance of intersectionality and inclusivity within the Autistic Community and beyond, advocating for Autistic Pride and acceptance in the queer communities. Our advocacy must be inclusive of all intersecting communities to be effective. Join Daren and Philip for this very comprehensive conversation.

This episode includes candid conversations around sexuality that may not be appropriate for all audiences. Listener discretion is advised.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

AJ and Philip discuss the importance of addressing anger management in Intersectional Autistic Adults Communities by stressing the need for safe spaces & personalized approaches. We will explore the subjects of gaslighting, internalized oppression, and anger in marginalized communities, highlighting the importance of recognizing and validating emotions & experiences. We will underline the need for community support, self-advocacy, and strategies for managing PTSD. Finally, we will talk about incorporating the need for Autistic led initiatives and investing in those spaces to empower Autistic Individuals.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Holt Mills is a graduating senior at the Minnesota Independence College & Community. Holt will tell us about his chosen major, and what being educated at a college and community that accepts him as an Autistic has prepared him for the career and challenges of his life going forward.  Holt will also share with us what graduation in May means for him.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Autistics are discovering that we are part of a unique culture and language while we strive for acceptance that opens up possibilities that are not limited by the ableism of DSM criteria.  Rachel Cullen is an Autistic, independent consultant, and advocate in Brighton, England who has been researching their Autistic Language Hypothesis. Together with our intersectional communities, we will challenge stereotypes, promote acceptance, and ensure that Autistic voices are heard. 

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Autistic women are emerging with vitality to add their voices to the Neurodiversity Movement.  No where is this more clear than AutisticaPalooza, an upcoming 2 1/2-day conference for and by Autistic women with a speaker line up dominated by Autistic women.  Nigel Rising, Esq., founded Autistic Women Emerging (AWE), the event organizer, for the purpose of engaging activities that will reduce the suicide rate of Autistic women.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

To start off Women's History Month, we begin by taking a look at education for Autistic Women.  Due to the misinformation about Autistic women, they are often at a terrible disadvantage when it comes to education.  Karen Timm is an educator who will talk about education for Autistic women, and what is needed to advocate for their learning needs. 

Go to todaysautsiticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Precious Lesley joins Philip to explore the intricate intersectionality of race, gender, and socioeconomic status in the experience of Black Autistic Adults specifically within the realms of education and healthcare. 

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Join us for an insightful discussion with Jen White-Johnson, An ADHD Black, Boricua Mother of an Autistic child and Art Activist for Disability Culture & Justice.  We'll explore the intersectionality of Neurodiversity and racial justice, addressing the presence of racism within the movement.  Learn how to actively promote inclusivity and equality in advocating for Neurodiversity while acknowledging and addressing the biases in diagnostic criteria.  This conversation strives to empower individuals to work together for a more just and inclusive advocacy movement.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

Exploring the importance of emergency preparedness for Autistic Adults, Eric Ringgenberg, Director of Education Programs at The Autism Society of Minnesota, will join Philip to delve into creating personalized plans.  The discussion will encompass identifying and planning for emergencies, providing insights into how emergencies can impact the diverse communities within the Autistic culture. The conversation aims to empower Autistic Adults with strategies to understand, prepare for, and navigate emergencies effectively.  

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Planning Neuro-Affirming Holiday Social Events is crucial for a positive experience for Neurodivergents. In a recent conversation, Mitchell Schaps from MNeurodivergent sat down with me to share some insights on creating inclusive events for Neurodivergents. Considering sensory needs by providing spaces for self-regulation including recharging empty social batteries are just some of the things Mitchell suggested. Listen to this episode to hear more of Mitchell's ideas.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com to find the transcripts and other information mentioned on the show.

What do Neuro-Affirming therapy options look like for Autistics? What do Neuro-Affirming therapies do that are different from other therapies that are currently used? Neuro-Affirming therapies help Autistics to discover their strengths and identities that give them confidence in themselves as they are. Sarah Dwan is a Disability Advocate and an Autistic who lives in Waterford, Ireland. Sarah Dwan joins Philip to talk about what Neuro-Affirming means, and why therapies that affirm Neurodivergents are so important.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Each Autistic individual has their unique blend of what triggers or soothes them. Subjects that trigger the fight or flight response. Sensory needs such as loud music is your partner's soother, but it is your trigger. Watching the same TV show over and over again is your soother, but it is your partner's trigger. You are Autistic and ADHD, your soothers and triggers will overlap. Ashlyn Baker is a mental health professional and owner of the podcast I Married Your Therapist. Listen to Ashlyn and I talk about how to work with overlapping triggers and soothers.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts.

Dr. Nick Walker is the author of the book Neuroqueer Heresies: Notes on the Neurodiversity Paradigm, Autistic Empowerment, and Postnormal Possibilities. Dr. Walker coined the word Neuroqueer and applied the queer theory to the discussions about Neurodivergents. According to Dr. Walker, Neuroqueer is a verb that urges us to make the decision that Autistics and other Neurodivergents will accept ourselves for who we are and not try to fit ourselves into what society has constructed as a "normal brain" s. a "different brain." Dr. Walker will bring her perspective to the conversations about Neurodiversity, sexual orientation and gender identity that will challenge us to rethink how we understand and act.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

One aspect of being Autistic that has many pieces to it is food. Autistics can have sensory issues with food textures and digesting certain foods. There is also another sensory matter for Autistics that is interoception. Interoception is how the body communicates messages to the brain such as "I am hungry" "I am thirsty." "I am full, stop eating." "I haven't eaten in a while, please feed me." These can be why many Autistics have eating disorders that includes being fat. Kelly Lenza is an Autistic and an amazing self-advocate for Autistics who live in larger bodies.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript. Autistic Adults face more conflict than just about any group of people. Our challenges with verbal and nonverbal communication, finding our social support networks, and the stigmas imposed by our disabilities can burn us out.  If the conflicts we have with others doesn’t weigh us down, our interior conflict with ourselves most certainly will. Autistics need strategies for conflict resolution.  Join my guest Dr. Devon Price and I to help us understand where our conflicts come from, and how we can work towards resolving them.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcripts. According to a study by Cassidy et al in 2018, 66% of newly diagnosed Autistic Adults experienced suicidal ideation. That is 17% higher than the general population.  There are many reasons why Autistic Adults experience suicidal ideation.  Lisa understands first-hand what being in a state of crisis is for Autistics. Lisa is an Autistic Adults and a life coach for Autistics who find themselves in crisis situations.  It is so important for Autistic Adults and their caregivers to listen this episode.  You just might save someone’s life.

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This is a special show for Autistics going through the transition into adulthood.  You have gone through your years in school and being looked after by your parents and caregivers.  There are some major changes that occur as you become an adult.  Many programs that are in place to assist Autistics transition to adulthood are not adequate to meet their needs.  Robert Schmus joins me for segments 2 and 3. Robert is a mental health professional who works with adolescents who are Autistic.  Robert will join me to talk about his work to help Autistics transition to adulthood. Emily Goldberg from The Autism Mentorship Program joins me to talk about how a mentorship program for Autistic Adults to mentor Autistic Teens can help with the transition to adulthood.

Go to todaysautisticmoment.com for the transcript.

If you or someone you know has just been self-identified or diagnosed by a professional, this episode is especially for you.  If you have been identified as Autistic for a long time and wondered about some things that happened right after, this show is for you too. Getting an Autism diagnosis changes your life.  If you are late identified because you are over 30, 40, 50 or 60 years old, it changes your entire life history.  You may feel angry, sad, relieved, happy, grieve, or do all of these at once or over time.  Your perception of yourself will change. Other’s perception of you will change. How do you take care of yourself during this time of incredible change?  Listen to Becca, Carole, Scott, and myself as we share our stories and advice to help you at this most crucial time in your life.

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One experience most Autistics have had is emotional avalanches.  You feel really happy one minute, then the next, something happens and your emotions avalanche and take all your happiness with them.  Michelle will join me to talk about some great self-care tips for Autistics in those emotional avalanche moments.