This conversation was meant to close out Autism Acceptance Month — but its message is just as powerful as we step into Mental Health Awareness Month.

What does it mean to lose your identity, find your voice, and transform pain into purpose?

In this episode, Ashley Elise White — an autistic woman, former athlete, and creative force — shares her extraordinary journey from being overlooked and bullied to winning gold at the Special Olympics and launching her own podcast platform.

We dive into the difference between awareness and acceptance, the mental health toll athletes often face after sport, and what it means to be underestimated — especially as a neurodivergent woman in spaces not built for you.

Ashley’s story is one of resilience, reclamation, and real impact. This episode is full of honesty, heart, and healing — and a powerful reminder that your purpose doesn’t end when the game does. Sometimes, it’s just getting started.

🎧 Listen now. Be moved. Be inspired. Be challenged.

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🔗 Follow Ashley: @ashelise.3 and @bonafideher

🎙️ Follow the show: @still.anathlete

📺 Follow for more stories of athletes finding purpose after sport!