Part of our 12-Week Writing Series for autistic creatives and late-diagnosed adults.

In this episode of Writing Unmasked, Dr. Angela Kingdon is joined by poet, nonfiction writer, and fiber artist Christina Socorro Yovovich for a conversation that redefines what “success” means for autistic creatives.

Together, they explore how writing can be both a healing modality and a radical act of self-definition—especially for neurodivergent people navigating ableist ideas of productivity. From fiber arts to memoir, Christina shares how sensory-soothing practices support creativity, and how success isn’t always publication—it’s peace, expression, and connection.

We also announce the winners of our Week 8 writing prompt contest!

🎧 What You’ll Learn

• Why “write every day” advice often clashes with neurodivergent energy rhythms
• How knitting, journaling, and pets provide sensory grounding for creativity
• The difference between external success (money, recognition) and internal success (healing, self-trust)
• Why spoon theory matters in sustaining creative energy
• How autistic writers benefit from concrete audiences and predictably comforting environments
• The impact of internalized ableism on creative self-worth

🏆 Week 8 Winners

🥇 First Place:

“Goldilocks – Girl Misunderstood”

by Bragitta Ozhga

🥈 Runner-Up:

“Konstantin Levin”

by Louise Lomas

Congratulations to our featured writers, and thank you to everyone who submitted! Want to see their full entries? Read their stories here.

👤 About Christina Socorro Yovovich

Christina is a poet and nonfiction writer whose work has been featured in River Styx, Blue Mesa Review, MUTHA Magazine, and more. She writes with emotional honesty and sensory depth, often exploring mental health, motherhood, and the autistic lived experience.

• 📸 Instagram: @cyovovich
• 📚 Published Works
• 🎧 Therapeutic Knitting Podcast – “Discovering a Grounded Joy”
• 🧶 Ply Magazine Article – “The Woolly Animal of Dawn”
• 📺 YouTube: Knit & Chat Series
• 🕊️ Guest Sermon at UU Church

Neurodivergent Narratives Presents: ‘Who Can It Be Now?’ Contest

Tap into the mystery genre or let your imagination run wild—just keep it under 500 words.

🖊️ Open to: Everyone

🗓️ Deadline: Wednesday, July 9 at 12 PM ET / 5 PM UK

💷 Prize: £10 per winner

📘 Publication: Winners featured on Substack and in the Neurodivergent Narratives anthology

🔗 Submit your entry here →

✅ Submission Rules

• No plagiarism, hate speech, or graphic content
• Multiple submissions welcome
• No subscription required to participate
• All decisions final

📢 Use hashtag #WhoCanItBeNow on social media

Related Episodes:

The Art of Unmasking (Episode 142) - Writing Prompt #32

Autistic Head Cannon (Episode 144) - Writing Prompt #33

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🌐 Learn more at www.autisticculturepodcast.com

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