In this episode of Autistic Advocacy, hosts Dr. Angela Kingdon and Matt Lowry, LPP sit down with Maisie Soetantyo, founder of Autism Career Pathways, to explore her journey from ABA practitioner to neurodiversity-affirming advocate.

🎧 What You’ll Learn:

• How Maisie transitioned away from ABA therapy and embraced a relationship-based approach grounded in neurodiversity.
• Why nurturing Autistic children’s special interests can naturally guide them toward meaningful careers.
• The pressure parents face from so-called “experts”—and how to trust instincts over institutions that prioritize profit.
• The mission of Autism Career Pathways, connecting Autistic adults with families of Autistic kids and building neurodiversity awareness.
• Advice for Autistic adults: explore Autistic-led resources, build community, and define the conditions where you thrive.
• Advice for businesses: don’t underestimate Autistic employees—accommodations unlock strengths that benefit everyone.
• The urgent need for paid Autistic-led advocacy so that Autistic expertise is valued, not exploited.
• Maisie’s favorite Autistic traits, including her constant creative flow and ability to connect deeply with diverse people.

👤 Guest Bio:

Maisie Soetantyo (she/her) is the founder of Autism Career Pathways, a nonprofit dedicated to building inclusive workplaces and empowering Autistic people to pursue meaningful careers. A former ABA practitioner, Maisie shifted her focus toward a neurodiversity-affirming framework that celebrates Autistic strengths and fosters authentic connections. 

Resources:

• Find Maisie and her work at www.autismcareerpathways.org
• Twitter thread on Autistic experts
• The highly ableist (and fascinating train wreck) “Recruiting Giants” presentation

Related Episodes:

• Labels & Autism
• The Trouble with Temple
• Bad Autism Diagnosis
• Productivity is Autistic

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🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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