Episode 5: Autistic Identity vs. Diagnosis, and Comic Con

This week's episode, we’re diving headfirst into autistic identity—what it means, how it differs from a medical diagnosis, and why the DSM criteria kind of miss the point. We’re also calling out the neurotypical gatekeeping that makes getting a diagnosis way harder than it needs to be. Here’s what we get into:

• Why you’re still autistic even if no doctor has given your identity their stamp of approval

• How the DSM is loaded with ableism—and Matt’s affirming way to reframe it

• Echolalia, stimming, and our love of routines (yes, even Taylor Swift on repeat)

• Comic-Con vibes to Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic

As always, it’s part theory, part lived experience, and a whole lot of geeky tangents—because we’re not here to fit into neurotypical boxes.