An episode that explores the intricate connections between MCAS, autism, and POTS through a neurodivergent lens and the principles of functional medicine.

In Episode 122 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela are joined by Jess Lewis, a trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming functional medicine advocate living with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). Together, they explore the complex connection between MCAS and autism, offering validation, practical strategies, and lived experience.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* How chronic stress, sensory overload, and a dysregulated nervous system—common in autistic people navigating a neurotypical world—can trigger MCAS symptoms.

* Jess shares how exposure to mold and COVID-19 activated her mast cells and set off a cascade of symptoms, a common pattern in those with MCAS and neuroimmune dysregulation.

* A deep dive into medical gaslighting, the frustration of being dismissed by healthcare providers, and why autistic individuals are more likely to be ignored or misdiagnosed.

* Practical approaches for mast cell stabilization, including calming protocols, nervous system regulation, and low-histamine diets tailored for sensory-sensitive bodies.

* The connection between POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and autism, and how these overlapping conditions often coexist in neurodivergent individuals.

* Understanding anaphylaxis in MCAS—why even minor triggers can set off severe immune responses, and how to advocate for safety when living with unpredictable symptoms.

* The value of combining functional medicine with practical support, blending science and lived experience for better care in complex, multi-layered conditions like MCAS, POTS, and autism.

Jess Lewis (she/they) is a former Chief Technology Officer turned MCAS researcher, functional medicine advocate, and founder of the Mast Cell Support community. After personally reversing a severe case of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)—triggered by mold exposure and COVID—Jess now supports others through an evidence-based, neurodivergent-affirming approach rooted in functional medicine and trauma-informed care.

Currently pursuing a PhD in Functional Medicine, Jess specializes in mast cell health and comorbid neuroimmune conditions, bringing a deep systems-thinking lens to both her health advocacy and her continued leadership in the tech world.

🌐 Follow Jess on:Threads, Instagram, Substack → @jesslewis💻 Website → jesslewis.com🤝 Community → mastcellsupport.com

“When you go to the doctor, think about it like a work meeting. Have a plan, have an agenda, have the questions laid out. Use your superpowers of deep research. Bring studies - not to be combative, but just to say, ‘I wanna collaborate on this. Here’s what I’m seeing, here’s what I’m thinking. And if your doctor doesn’t wanna listen to you, go find another doctor. Feel good about the boundaries you put in front of yourself, because you gotta advocate.” - Jess Lewis

“If I can change one mind, I can change several minds… If I could change things for just a few people to have the lightbulb go off, to say, ‘I’ve got your back. I want to be the advocate for you. I want you to be the advocate for yourself.” - Jess Lewis

Did you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the intersection of MCAS, autism, and neurodivergent health experiences. From medical gaslighting to the overlap with POTS and nervous system dysregulation, we unpack what it means to live in a body that's constantly on high alert. We also explore the importance of functional medicine, low-histamine diets, and practical strategies for mast cell stabilization. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Resources:

MCAS-Friendly Food Guide:Download Jess Lewis's curated list of low-histamine, mast-cell-friendly foods designed to support MCAS management with a neurodivergent-affirming lens.🔗 Food Guide Pharmacy – subscribepage.io/MCASfoodlist

🌱 What Is Quercetin?Learn more about Quercetin, a plant flavonoid known for its natural antihistamine and mast cell stabilizing properties, often used as part of MCAS and allergy support.📚 Quercetin on Wikipedia

Related Episodes:

Autistic Medical Needs (Episode 14)Meat Body Maintenance (Episode 53)Autistic Medical Needs, Part 2 (Episode 108)

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An episode that explores the impact of My Chemical Romance through an autistic and neurodivergent perspective.

In Episode 121 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela are joined by producer of the show Simon Scott, as he steps in front of the mic to share his lifelong autistic special interest—My Chemical Romance (MCR).

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* How MCR reflects the autistic experience through themes of social rejection, masking, hyper-empathy, and sensory overload.

* The origin story of the band—born from Gerard Way’s emotional response to 9/11, highlighting a deeply autistic-style processing of trauma, urgency, and connection.

* Writing, recording, and releasing their debut album in a week is a prime example of autistic hyperfocus and creative intensity.

* A breakdown of the band’s narrative-driven albums and how they explore identity, grief, burnout, and transformation, culminating in the iconic Welcome to the Black Parade.

* The "I'm Not Okay (I Promise)" music video is an anthem for misunderstood neurodivergent teens, symbolizing the pressure to mask and the pain of being excluded.

* How justice sensitivity, bottom-up processing, and the so-called “autistic accent” influence MCR’s lyrics, delivery, and emotional authenticity.

* A look at the neurodivergent community that grew around the band—an autistic-coded subculture built by and for people who feel too much, think too deeply, and never quite fit in.

* We also explore expectation sensitivity, the reasons behind MCR’s 8-year hiatus, and their powerful return—why their message still resonates for autistic people today more than ever.

“I’d rather be a creature of the night than just some old dude.” - Gerard Way

“I disappoint a lot of people. They expect me to be one way. If I spend a minute with them, they end up saying, ‘Oh, you’re actually just a really nice person. They hate me when they catch me out of my makeup.” - Gerard Way

“Neurotypical people tend to do things for power, prestige, and profit. He’s not doing it because he wants to maintain the My Chemical Romance empire. He’s not doing it because he wants to be famous. He’s not doing it because he wants all the money. He has a story to tell. He has a reason for doing the thing.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We took a deep dive into the world of My Chemical Romance and how their music, message, and aesthetic embody key aspects of the autistic experience. From the butterfly effect of 9/11 to the cancellation of Ellen (yes, really), we trace the band’s origins, explore autistic hyper-empathy and justice sensitivity in their lyrics, and analyze how the “autistic accent” shows up in their sound. Plus, we break down the iconic “I’m Not Okay” music video and the subculture that’s made MCR a safe haven for neurodivergent weirdos everywhere. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

My Chemical Romance on Wikipedia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/My_Chemical_Romance

Black Parade in Musical Order -

Neurodivergent Experience -

Na Na Na Music Video:

Welcome to the Black Parade Music Video:

Related Episodes:Chess is Autistic

Freddie Mercury is Autistic

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An episode that dives deep into the myths of giftedness and “profound autism,” two tropes that lead to bad outcomes for Autistic people.

In Episode 120 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela dig into the controversial term “profound autism”, exposing how it’s used by the ABA industry to silence autistic voices and push intervention-based funding.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* Why “profound autism” isn’t a clinical diagnosis—but a profit-driven label used to gatekeep advocacy and control narratives within the autism community.

* The connection between autism levels, masking, and capitalism, and how financial success is often tied to how well an autistic person can suppress their traits.

* The overlap between giftedness and autism, and how both can increase vulnerability to addiction, substance use, and burnout.

* Why terms like “highly sensitive person” (HSP) and “indigo child” are often coded language for undiagnosed autism, especially in women and AFAB individuals.

* A deep dive into the harm caused by ABA therapy, Autism Speaks, and helicopter parenting, all of which center control rather than autonomy for autistic children.

* Exploring autistic pattern recognition as both a superpower and survival skill, and how it contributes to burnout and sensory overwhelm.

* The concept of the “functional alcoholic” and how gifted, late-diagnosed autistic adults may use substances to manage overload.

* Real-life example: Dan Harmon, creator of Rick and Morty, and how autistic burnout contributed to substance struggles and missed deadlines.

* Reframing outdated “functioning labels” by focusing on masking levels, and why it’s time to reject hierarchies of autistic legitimacy.

“What people don’t understand is that, when it comes to autism, we just have the autism. It might have some comorbid characteristics with other stuff - for instance, ‘profound autism’ might have some intellectual disability. But it doesn’t change the nature of the autism; it just changes the operating system that you’re working with. It changes the hardware that you’re working with.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“You could be gifted, but God forbid the word ‘autistic’ with no qualifiers just comes out of your mouth. I don’t know what happens. I think God throws Zeus a bolt of lightning. Something must happen.” - Dr Angela Kingdon

“I have had periods in my life where I actually thought I must be psychic because these things would happen. I’d be like, ‘my god, I think I’m psychic. And then I realized, ‘shit, I’m just pattern matching.” - Dr Angela Kingdon

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the controversial label of "profound autism" and how it's used to limit autistic self-advocacy. We also dove into the connection between giftedness and substance abuse, the role of pattern recognition as a survival skill, and the cycle of burnout and underemployment in the autistic community. Plus, we break down the issues with Autism Speaks, the ABA industry, and helicopter autism parents. Tune in and share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

Harmontown Movie -

Related Episodes:Sherlock is Autistic

Community is Autistic

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An episode of giant proportions!

In Episode 119 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela celebrate the legendary alt-rock band They Might Be Giants (TMBG)—a group that’s been unintentionally (or very intentionally) writing autistic-coded music since the early ’80s.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* The origins of TMBG in 1982, in Brooklyn, and their iconic Dial-A-Song hotline, which ran until 2008 and remains a cult favorite.

* How TMBG has always been independently supported by fans—offering personalized songs to fan club members and cultivating a community-first approach.

* Why 90% of their fan base feels unapologetically autistic, and how both Johns have spoken openly about being neurodivergent, with John Linnell identifying as autistic.

* A deep dive into autistic themes in TMBG lyrics:

* “Upside Down Frown” is a song about masking

* “Dr. Worm” as a special interest anthem

* Rejection sensitivity, burnout, pattern recognition, info-dumping, and sensory overload are woven into their storytelling

* How TMBG’s music infuses educational deep-dives, like “Istanbul (Not Constantinople)”, which exemplifies autistic hyperfocus and love for infodumps.

* The power of autistic connection through music, and how their fan club fosters belonging, shared joy, and authentic community for neurodivergent listeners.

“I can’t ignore music when it’s in a room. If I’m in a restaurant and I hear music, I feel oppressed by it.” - John Linnell

“I have a latent desire for maximum efficiency of movement, which is motivated by laziness. I spend a fair amount of time thinking of the easiest way to do things.” - John Linnell

“Yeah, that’s an autistic song right there. That’s the kind of song you come up with after reading Wikipedia at three in the morning.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the deep autistic coding in They Might Be Giants' music, from themes of masking, rejection sensitivity, and sensory overload to their love of history-infodumps and special interest anthems. Tune in as we break down fan favorites like Dr. Worm and Upside Down Frown, and discuss how TMBG’s fan club structure fosters autistic connection and community. Share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!

Show Notes:

Angela’s TMBG is an Autistic companion playlist:

Musical References of TMBG:

Stuff is the Way: ​​

Favorite TMBG LyricsA Reddit thread where fans share their favorite They Might Be Giants lyrics—from quirky one-liners to deeply relatable verses.🔗 Read the discussion on Reddit

Best They Might Be Giants SongsA BuzzFeed ranking of the best TMBG songs, filled with fan favorites and hidden gems.🔗 Check out the list on BuzzFeed

Bonus Artist: Moon HoochLooking for more neurodivergent-friendly music? Check out Moon Hooch, an experimental band known for high-energy saxophone-led jams and improvisational intensity.🔗 Visit moonhooch.com

Related Episodes:

QuestLove is Autistic

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An episode that turns the hands of time.

In Episode 118 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela take a deep dive into how executive functioning changes over time—and why traditional advice doesn’t work for autistic people.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* The evolving demands of executive functioning for autistic adults, from brushing your teeth to managing rent, driving, and juggling digital subscriptions.

* Why “just use a calendar” doesn’t cut it—and how unsolicited neurotypical advice ignores the reality of autistic brain function.

* The connection between executive dysfunction and autistic inertia, and how body doubling can support task initiation.

* The challenges of masking in professional environments, and why autistic adults often reach a point where authenticity is survival.

* Matt and Angela share their unmasking journeys, offering insight into reclaiming identity and building an autistic life that works.

* We discuss common autistic comorbid conditions like POTS, PMDD, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, and how they complicate daily functioning.

* The impact of trauma, CPTSD, and the under-discussed intersection of autism and menopause—how hormonal shifts can exacerbate executive dysfunction and emotional regulation.

“When you get older and you have the kids and you have the house and you have the job and the responsibilities - that’s when the executive functioning fails.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“This is also a reason why the unemployment rate for autistics is much higher than for neurotypicals. It doesn’t mean that you’re a bad person. It doesn’t mean that you’re lazy. It doesn’t mean that you don’t have intellectual functioning ability. It’s just that you’re working with a lot more system requirements. You can’t play the game that other people play because your PC is maxed out with all these other system requirements and other people aren’t.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored executive functioning in autistic lives, from shifting responsibilities as we age to the impact of masking, comorbid conditions, and trauma. Tune in as we discuss strategies like body doubling and unmasking, and share your thoughts using #AutisticCultureCatch!

Resources:Explore studies and resources on the relationship between brain glucose levels, autism, and ADHD symptoms:

* Study: Blood glucose and neurobehavioral function – PubMed (1985)

* Study: Glucose tolerance in children with learning and behavioral disorders – PubMed (1986)

* Article: The Potential Impact of Brain Glucose Levels on ADHD Symptoms – ADD Resource Center

Article: The Complexities of Aging: Addressing the Unique Needs of Autistic EldersA thoughtful exploration of how aging impacts autistic individuals and what supports are still lacking.🔗 Read on Autism Spectrum News

🎥 Shared Stories, Shared Experiences: International Research on Autism and MenopauseAIDE Canada presents this insightful webinar featuring global research and lived experiences around autism and hormonal transitions.🔗 Watch the webinar on AIDE CanadaRelated Episodes:Productivity is Autistic

Meat Body Maintenance

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

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An episode that’s spooky and spectacular!

In Episode 117 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela are joined by Tiffany Hammond—autistic mother, writer, and the voice behind @FidgetsAndFries—to explore Monster High, intersectional autism advocacy, and the importance of authentic neurodivergent representation in media.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* Why autistic people often relate to monsters, feeling different or set apart—making Monster High the ultimate autistic-coded franchise.

* Tiffany shares her experience consulting with Mattel to help create Twyla Boogeyman, the first canonically autistic Monster High character.

* How Twyla’s body language, stim behaviors, and sensory tools were developed with input from actually autistic voices for an accurate and affirming portrayal.

* A deep dive into intersectionality in autism advocacy—Tiffany speaks candidly about navigating the space as a Black autistic mother raising autistic children.

* The realities of police interactions with autistic people, especially those who are multiply marginalized, and why systemic change is urgently needed.

* We unpack the “autism mom” narrative and how Tiffany reframes it through a lens of empowerment, justice, and lived experience.

* The impact of authentic autistic representation in media, and why seeing ourselves reflected—even in fictional characters—can be deeply validating and life-affirming.

Tiffany Hammond is the voice behind the powerful platform @fidgets.and.fries. She is an autistic mother, writer, and disability justice advocate raising two autistic sons. With a Master's in Developmental Psychology, Tiffany brings both lived experience and professional insight to her work in intersectional autism advocacy.

Her storytelling challenges outdated, deficit-based views of autism and inspires community dialogue around neurodiversity, race, identity, and authentic representation. Tiffany was born and raised in Texas, fueled by deep-dish pie, late-night writing, and road trips with her sons.

📚 Author of:🟣 The Day I Found Out I Was Autistic🟣 A Day With No Words – Available on Amazon

📲 Follow Tiffany Online:

* Instagram: Fidgets and Fries

* BlueSky: fidgetsandfries.bsky.social

“We [autistic folks] tend to have an affinity for monsters because we are often misunderstood. We are often persecuted, villainized, & made out to be the bad guy because we are different. So, we often want to extend courtesy to monsters, because we say, ‘that beast surely is misunderstood. Perhaps there are good things there.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“That’s a big problem with the world in general, because a lot of the world, especially neurotypical people, operate with sound bytes and hashtags and make things as simplistic as possible. But when you have the complex intersectionality of racism and colonialism and ableism and all this stuff contributing to make a real, massive threat, a danger to your existence, it’s so much bigger than that.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“She [Twyla Boogeyman] represents one kind of representation of what autism can be. This is just an invitation for the audience to learn more, for you to see that there is disabled representation, even in animated, made-up shows.” - Tiffany Hammond

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the impact of autism representation in media, from Monster High's canonically autistic character to the power of seeing ourselves reflected in pop culture. Tune in as we dive into how these portrayals shape our identities, creativity, and connections with others. Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with us and share your experiences!

Resources:

SPELLRBOARD APP:Created by listener Julie Kazaks’ son for his non-speaking autistic brother, SPELLRBOARD is a digital letterboard app designed for people who communicate nonverbally.

🌐 Learn more and watch the demo at spellrboard.com

Because everyone deserves a voice.Related Episodes:

Beauty and the Beast is AutisticX-Men are Autistic

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

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An episode that hyperfixates on SPINS!

In Episode 116 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela celebrate one of the most powerful aspects of autistic identity—special interests, also known as SPINS.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* How autistic SPINS offer escape, comfort, and identity, especially during difficult childhoods.

* Matt shares his early SPINS (Frankenstein, Star Wars), while Angela opens up about her love for Bob Geldof, philanthropy, and Crowded House.

* The autistic joy of director’s cuts, IMDb deep-dives, and hyperfixation while watching media.

* Why the early internet was an autistic haven, providing space for connection, fandom, and shared special interests.

* A critical look at ABA culture, which teaches that special interests must be “earned”—and why this is harmful, not true.

* Building a career around your SPINS: how autistic flow states fuel creativity, productivity, and authentic success.

* How special interests lead to deep social connection, forming strong, mutual relationships rooted in shared passion and neurodivergent understanding.

“[My special interests] were the things that got me through it. I identified more with the fictional world than the real one because of friends, family, and fictional characters.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“Now, why would you wait and watch the whole movie while instead, you could be looking things up on IMDb or Wikipedia and making your own director’s cut in your mind?” - Dr Angela Kingdon

“We train our children young. You must train your children in your special interests to increase emotional regulation through special interests. The children we love most accept our special interests as their own. These are the rules.” - Dr Angela Kingdon

“It feels like unlocking a secret code when you meet somebody and you’re able to mutually info dump about the thing that you’re really passionate about, because you just hype each other up. And it is a type of relationship that I don’t think neurotypicals understand.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the power of autistic special interests (SPINS) and how they shape our lives, from hyperfocus to creating mutual friendships. Tune in as we dive into how our SPINS fuel creativity, career paths, and deep connections with others. Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with us and share your experiences!

Show Notes:

🧠 Angela’s SPIN Study – Exploring Autistic Special Interests in Intimacy🔗 bit.ly/spinstudy

Related Episodes:

The Orville is Autistic

Board games are Autistic

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

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An episode that lays down the law!

In Episode 115 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela sit down with Susan, aka The Autistic Woman—a retired judge, late-diagnosed autistic adult, and host of the Meet My Autistic Brain podcast—to discuss the challenges and opportunities autistic people face in the legal field.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* Why autistic people are drawn to law—from our love of structure and clear rules to our deep sense of justice and fairness.

* How masking in law school and legal careers can lead to autistic burnout, especially when the system doesn’t reflect the justice we expect.

* The double-edged sword of black-and-white thinking in a field filled with legal gray areas—and where autistic thinkers may thrive, such as contract law or prosecution.

* The emotional toll of discovering that the law isn’t always logical or fair, and how that disillusionment hits autistic professionals harder.

* How the hierarchies of the legal system clash with autistic communication styles and the need for predictability.

* Why legal research and strategic problem-solving are a natural fit for autistic minds—and what happens when that’s not enough to protect us from burnout.

* Representation matters: we unpack autistic-coded lawyer characters and how they reflect real-world neurodivergent experiences in the courtroom.

“We unconsciously process so much data. We are in a swirling cauldron of chaos all the time, and just getting rid of this visual clutter is meaningful. There are so many things that we can do as autistic people to live healthier autistic lives. And we don’t even know that [some of those] things are options.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“We [autistic folks], because of our neurology, don’t develop habits - we develop strategies. Neurotypical people do things on autopilot - like wake up, brush their teeth, go for a walk, all this other stuff, but we can’t do that. We have systems.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“When we go nonverbal out of stress, when we don’t make eye contact, neurotypicals are led to believe that that’s because we’re shifty or we’re lying. So, our inherent way of being might serve as a disadvantage in a legal system.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the intersection of autism and the legal field, discussing the challenges autistic individuals face in law careers, from burnout to navigating the gray areas of the law. Tune in as we dive into the unique experiences of neurodivergent individuals in the legal profession. Share your thoughts in the comments and use #AutisticCultureCatch to connect with us and share your experiences!

Show Notes:

🎙️ The Neurodivergent Experience – Hosted by our producer, SimonDon’t miss Episode 33: Living with Alexithymia and Dyspraxia—a listener favorite!

🎧 Meet My Autistic Brain – Hosted by Susan, The Autistic WomanA podcast exploring the lived experience of late-diagnosed autistic adults.🔗 Visit theautisticwoman.com

📱 Follow The Autistic Woman

* Instagram: @anautisticwoman

* Twitter/X: @anautisticwoman

Related Episodes

Star Trek is Autistic

Apple is Autistic

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

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An episode that uncovers the intimate side of autism.

In Episode 114 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela are joined by autistic sex and relationship therapist Kate McNulty to explore the realities of autistic intimacy, dating, and emotional connection from a neurodivergent lens.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* The unique challenges of dating while autistic, from sensory issues to communication differences and masking in relationships.

* How autistic masking in romantic dynamics can cause emotional burnout and loss of authenticity.

* The importance of SPIN sharing (bonding over special interests) is a core part of autistic love languages.

* Why autistic adults often haven’t had their voices heard around intimacy and sexuality, and how this silence is rooted in eugenics-based narratives.

* How couples therapy can be adapted to support autistic relationship dynamics, especially when both partners are neurodivergent.

* The link between autism and asexuality, and the diversity of intimacy experiences within the LGBTQ+ autistic community.

* Strategies for navigating sensory overwhelm during intimacy, including how to build a sensory-friendly bedroom that supports comfort, safety, and connection.

* Why autistic people are often more open to nontraditional relationship structures, despite a preference for routine and predictability.

* Most importantly, we celebrate autistic joy—the emotional depth, connection, and fulfillment that comes from embracing your true self in relationships.

Kate McNulty is a proudly autistic licensed clinical social worker who specializes in autism-affirming therapy, sex and relationship counseling, and neurodivergent support. She is certified by the Gottman Institute in relationship therapy and by AASECT as a sex therapist. Kate is passionate about helping autistic individuals and couples build meaningful, joyful, and authentic connections.

🌐 Learn more about Kate’s work:

* Therapy Practice: portland-counseling.com

* Sex Therapy & Education: sexpositivetherapist.com

* Autism-Specific Services: autistictherapist.com

📅 Schedule a session:Click here to book online

“The majority of the people that I’ve worked with are adults. I’ve worked with some teenagers who are now in their 20s. And every once in a while, I get a parent who signs their teenager or 20-something, or 40-something up for therapy. And they want their autistic child to have ‘life skills’. But when you come into relationships and sex, all of a sudden, it’s like ‘my God, no, we can’t do that!”, because they’re still under the impression that their kid who has trouble making food or getting a job or something is never going to have a healthy relationship.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“It is a major turn-on to see someone very intensely sorting and categorizing their rock collection.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“We want to do all we can to make the bedroom a sensory-friendly environment. That oftentimes means getting clutter out of the way, making sure the sheets are clean, getting rid of any fragrances from laundry or soap or body products, anything that’s gonna interfere. It’s important to be candid with one another about that and not take it personally.” - Kate McNulty

“There are some things about autistic nervous systems that are unlikely to change. We don’t become desensitized. We can try to be flexible and match our partner’s desires, but we can only take it so far. And that’s a can’t, not a won’t.” - Kate McNulty

“I will confirm that there’s nothing sexier than a flexible partner.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“Part of autistic intimacy is knowing that there’s room for all kinds of imaginative play, sharing weird fantasies or quirky ideas, and being in that space together, that psychological space you share of imagination and anything being possible.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We explored the intersection of autism with various aspects of life, diving into the unique experiences of autistic intimacy and relationships. Tune in as we discuss the challenges of sensory overwhelm, the diversity of autistic experiences, and how couples therapy can support autistic relationship dynamics. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your experiences!

Resources:

🧠 Angela’s SPIN Study – Exploring Autistic Special Interests in Intimacy🔗 bit.ly/spinstudy

🖤 Find a Kink Munch – Community & ConnectionLooking to connect with like-minded individuals in a neurodivergent-friendly setting?🔗 Find a Munch

📚 Book: Exhibitionism for the Shy by Carol QueenA sex-positive guide to self-expression and confidence.🔗 Available on Amazon

📺 Video: I Love You, Don't Touch Me: Sex and Sensory ProcessingA thoughtful discussion on sensory needs and intimacy, especially relevant for autistic individuals.🔗 Watch on YouTube via Pink TherapyRelated Episodes:

Kink is Autistic

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An episode that dives deep into the neurodivergent narrative!

In Episode 113 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, Matt and Angela explore the deeply autistic-coded world of Lena Dunham, from her EDS diagnosis to her groundbreaking (and often misunderstood) work on Girls.

Here’s what’s in store for today’s episode:

* Why Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and POTS often co-occur with autism—and how Lena Dunham’s chronic illness journey mirrors autistic burnout.

* How Girls functions as an autistic TV show, created by a mind that doesn’t follow neurotypical storytelling norms—and why that resonates with so many of us.

* Lena’s character in Girls exhibits traits like rejection-sensitive dysphoria, clothing sensitivities, difficulty with transitions, and social cue misfires—classic markers of autism.

* We explore Dunham’s memoir, Not That Kind of Girl, and how neurotypical audiences misunderstood it, highlighting the risks autistic creatives face when being raw and unfiltered.

* The canonical autism of Girls character Shoshanna, and how autistic-coded characters naturally cluster in neurodivergent-created spaces.

* How Lena Dunham’s autistic traits were pathologized, her career sidelined, and howa lack of control in creative environments can lead to health crises for neurodivergent people.

* We also discuss her marriage to Jack Antonoff, and his neurodivergent-coded songwriting for bands like Fun. and Bleachers, as well as his ties to Taylor Swift, who’s also widely considered neurodivergent-coded.

“When I tell people I’m autistic, they say, ‘I don’t see it.’ Then I say, ‘well, I’m a Taurus’, and they say, ‘that makes sense.’” - Matt Lowry LPP

“A minute ago, we were talking about how exciting it is that she went to college, made a movie, went to South by Southwest, and got a film greenlit by HBO. Does this sound like an autistic thing that happens? Works 24 hours a day, wins every award, is a media darling, and then is fucking hated by everyone?” - Dr Angela Kingdon

“This is a common thing among autistic people, because when you’re young and vital and stuff, you put a lot of energy out there and then, for some reason, we expect that we’re going to be able to maintain that level of energy throughout our lives. We cannot.” - Matt Lowry LPP

“We experience far more stress than neurotypical people, because we live in a world that constantly bombards us with sensory information, with data. We have to mask all the time. We have more stuff that stresses us out than neurotypicals do. So, we are more likely to have all of these things, but again, we don’t know if it’s a 1:1 ratio that, just plain being autistic, means it’s more common.” - Matt Lowry LPP

Did you enjoy this episode? We delved into how autism intersects with various aspects of life, from Lena Dunham's neurodivergent-coded characters to the struggles of navigating rejection-sensitive dysphoria and burnout. Tune in as we explore the nuances of being neurodivergent in creative spaces and the connections between autistic individuals, like Lena Dunham and Taylor Swift. Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and use #AutisticCultureCatch to share your experiences!

Show notes:

Why Taylor Swift Seems to Be Autistic, and What it Means for Autism:

Biographical Information

* Lena Dunham – Britannica Biography

* Lena Dunham – Wikipedia

* Jack Antonoff – Wikipedia

* Lena Dunham: Net Worth & Career Highlights – YouTube

* Threads Post – Oakley Johansen on Lena Dunham

🧠 Mental Health, OCD & Neurodivergence

* Jack Antonoff Discusses OCD Rituals and Loss – People

* Lena Dunham on OCD, Anxiety, and Mental Health – Wikipedia

🩺 Chronic Illness & EDS

* Lena Dunham Reveals Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Diagnosis – CNN

📝 Writing, Creativity & Communication Style

* Lena Dunham’s Passion for Writing in Girls – Project MUSE

* Lena Dunham’s Communication Style & Public Criticism – Medium

* Lena Dunham on Routine, Structure & Creativity – The New Yorker

Related Episodes:

Taylor Swift is Autistic

Meat Body Maintenance

Ready for a paradigm shift that empowers Autistics? Help spread the news!

Follow us on Instagram

Find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify

Learn more about Angela at AngelaKingdon.com

Our Autism-affirming merch shop

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.autisticculturepodcast.com/subscribe

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.