Sign up to save your podcasts
Or
Share Autism Barbie: The Convo We Aren't Having
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Share to email
Share to Facebook
Share to X
Or
Autism Barbie: The Convo We Aren't Having
The debate around Autism Barbie has been loud, emotional, and deeply divided.
But I think we’re missing something important.
In this episode, I unpack why the backlash isn’t really about the doll — and why compassion has been in short supply on all sides of the conversation.
As a nurse, a parent, and someone who works in brain science, I explore a less-discussed angle: that many autism parents aren’t reacting to representation itself. They’re reacting to years of unacknowledged strain, grief, and trauma.
In this episode, we talk about:
- Why “palatable” neurodivergent representation can still have value
- How public discourse often overlooks caregiver trauma
- Why anger around Autism Barbie may actually be about being unseen
- The difference between criticism and compassion and why we need more of the latter
- How nuance gets lost when conversations turn performative
If you care about autism, disability, parenting, or how we talk about difference in public spaces, this conversation matters.
Study Referenced (PTSD Symptoms in Autism Parents):
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/11/1642
About the channel
Change of Mind is a long-form podcast and video channel exploring neuroscience, busy lives, caregiving, neurodiversity, and how humans actually change - in real life, not theory.
Hosted by Johanna Kate, a registered nurse with experience across healthcare, neuroscience, leadership, and motherhood. Expect thoughtful conversations, evidence-informed insights, and the kind of nuance that might just change your mind.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, nursing, or mental health advice and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual needs. While I’m a registered nurse with experience in operating theatres, mental health, neuroscience, and motherhood, the content shared here reflects general information and personal insights - not clinical recommendations.
Follow & connect
Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/thisisjohannakate/
Instagram Show: https://www.instagram.com/changeofmindpodcast/
Work With Me
https://johannakate.com.au
#changeofmind #neuroscience #neurodiversity #disabilityparenting #mentalload #burnoutprevention #autismacceptance #assumecapacity #podcast #longformconversation #softrewiring #sciencesis
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
View all episodes
By Johanna Kate RNThe debate around Autism Barbie has been loud, emotional, and deeply divided.
But I think we’re missing something important.
In this episode, I unpack why the backlash isn’t really about the doll — and why compassion has been in short supply on all sides of the conversation.
As a nurse, a parent, and someone who works in brain science, I explore a less-discussed angle: that many autism parents aren’t reacting to representation itself. They’re reacting to years of unacknowledged strain, grief, and trauma.
In this episode, we talk about:
- Why “palatable” neurodivergent representation can still have value
- How public discourse often overlooks caregiver trauma
- Why anger around Autism Barbie may actually be about being unseen
- The difference between criticism and compassion and why we need more of the latter
- How nuance gets lost when conversations turn performative
If you care about autism, disability, parenting, or how we talk about difference in public spaces, this conversation matters.
Study Referenced (PTSD Symptoms in Autism Parents):
https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/22/11/1642
About the channel
Change of Mind is a long-form podcast and video channel exploring neuroscience, busy lives, caregiving, neurodiversity, and how humans actually change - in real life, not theory.
Hosted by Johanna Kate, a registered nurse with experience across healthcare, neuroscience, leadership, and motherhood. Expect thoughtful conversations, evidence-informed insights, and the kind of nuance that might just change your mind.
Disclaimer
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, nursing, or mental health advice and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your individual needs. While I’m a registered nurse with experience in operating theatres, mental health, neuroscience, and motherhood, the content shared here reflects general information and personal insights - not clinical recommendations.
Follow & connect
Instagram Profile: https://www.instagram.com/thisisjohannakate/
Instagram Show: https://www.instagram.com/changeofmindpodcast/
Work With Me
https://johannakate.com.au
#changeofmind #neuroscience #neurodiversity #disabilityparenting #mentalload #burnoutprevention #autismacceptance #assumecapacity #podcast #longformconversation #softrewiring #sciencesis
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.