Shows
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 168- A talk about insomnia [ft. X Rakov (she/they)]In this episode, my friend X and I discuss sleep and the inherent difficulties many neurodivergent people face when trying to establish a routine that works for them. Attached below are resources and links mentioned throughout the episode: - The Neuroscience of Sleep and its Disorders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-AFJDcoeZA&list=PL_Sk6QhBQ1okzwlQaT10uRHQbiAq5kC5K- The Overlooked Connection Between ADHD and Sleep: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Eb-0VYN0k8&t=7s- Sleepwalk With Me: https://open.spotify.com/album/2...2024-10-0358 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 147- A talk about Ehlers Danlos syndrome with X Rakov (she/they)In this episode my friend X talks about their experiences with Ehlers Danlos syndrome and how it affects them in conjunction with ADHD. Shared below are resources recommended by X during the episode:Ehlers Danlos Support UK https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/Neurodivergence and EDS https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27377649/EDS UK Webinar (2022) https://www.ehlers-danlos.org/information/webinar-hypermobility-and-neurodiversity/2024-03-0146 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 140- Navigating the holidays as neurodivergent individuals [ft. X Rakov (she/they)]In this episode my friend X and I talk about our perspectives on the holidays and mention a few tips for navigating them as neurodivergent folks.2023-12-3042 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 135- A review of "Barbie" [ft. X rakov (she/they)]In this episode my friend X and I review the new "Barbie" film together. We discuss general thoughts on the film, the representation of patriarchy and moments that may have been influenced by the lens of neurodiversity.2023-11-2542 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 123- The "refrigerator mother" theory and the intersectionality of sexism and ableism [ft. X Rakov (she/they)]In this episode my friend X and discuss the "refrigerator mother" theory and how it is rooted in patriarchy and ableism.X then talks about their experiences (as a queer cisgender woman) with sexism and ableism (and how intertwined they are).2023-09-061h 26Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 115- A talk about addiction and motherhood with my Grandmother Theo Gund (she/her)In this episode I have my grandmother Theo Gund back on the podcast to discuss her struggles with alcoholism followed by the experience of being a mother to an ADHD child (my father George Gund IV from episodes 50 and 102)*Link to "A day with no words" book by Tiffany Hammondhttps://bookshop.org/p/books/a-day-with-no-words/18942107?ean=9781736949795&gclid=CjwKCAjw8ZKmBhArEiwAspcJ7n8oGUWOs0wqxaHGcoDqE1uvJevVLXYDAonJXlsNhXkrzsF0oMvG7RoCLukQAvD_BwE*Link to Tiffany Hammond's Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/2023-07-2917 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 112- ADHD, teaching, marriage and parenting [A talk with Rick Buhr Gund (he/him)]In this episode I have a great conversation my family member Rick. He talks all about his experiences growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, as well as navigating life as a teacher, and now a husband and parent as well.2023-07-151h 32Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 102- A talk about art, photography, farming and spirituality [ft. George F. Gund (he/him)]In this episode my father George F. Gund (who is also neurodistinct and you may remember from Episode 50) comes back on the podcast to talk about a variety of different topics, including his passion for photograph, his farming work at Blue Marble Acres Marin and his views on spirituality.Check out these links to see his great work! :)GUNDPHOTO PHOTOGRAPHY WEBSITE: http://www.gundphoto.com/BLUE MARBLE ACRES: https://www.bluemarbleacres.earth/2023-05-3144 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 91- Disabled people speaking out is NOT a "hype trend"In this episode I break down another highly problematic "hype trend" article about neurodiversity. This one was written by Emma Camp from the New York Times.I explain why this kind of rhetoric is so harmful to the autistic community, and especially to autistics with higher support needs and those that are multiply marginalized.2023-04-2612 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 90- A talk about neurodistinct social burnout and time management [ft. X Rakov (she/they)]In this six month anniversary special episode, my friend X and I talk more in depth about dealing with the burnout that can result from navigating social situations as neurodistinct individuals in a world that is not often kind to us.*References - brave.dave https://www.tiktok.com/@brave.dave?lang=en - Parrot video calls https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/04/21/science/parrots-video-chat-facetime.html2023-04-231h 41Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 89- My review of Netflix's "Heartbreak High"In this episode I talk about the show "Heartbreak High (2022)" on Netflix and why I find it to be the best authentic autistic representation I have ever seen in TV and film to this day.Autistic actor and advocate Chloe Hayden does a fantastic job with her portrayal of Quinni, a young queer autistic high schooler with lots of personality (not your standard stereotypical autistic person).2023-04-2122 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 88- Surviving neuronormative job expectations as neurodistinct individuals [ft. Faina Cherdak (she/her)])In this episode my friend Faina and I share experiences around neuronormative job experiences and expectations and how hard it can be to navigate those as neurodistinct individuals.2023-04-1956 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 87- A talk about life and parenting as a late diagnosed autistic person [ft. Melissa Tacia (she/her) from "Oh, That's Just my Autism"]In this very special episode, I host one of the main autistic podcasters that inspired me to start this podcast nearly 6 months ago, Melissa Tacia from "Oh, that's just my autism"! :)Melissa and I talk about struggles with getting accommodations and acceptance around certain struggles we experience, such as executive functioning differences.Melissa also talks about what it's like parenting and advocating for her autistic daughter as an autistic parent.Check out Melissa's great podcast as well: https://open.spotify.com/show/4RDyBTLKsbzD5eyk6cLDvX2023-04-1859 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 86- How to support autistics after meltdownsIn this episode I talk about how many autistic people (including myself) like to be supported after a meltdown. We need to understand that meltdowns are a result of unmet needs that an autistic is trying to communicate while under distress, and that punishing an autistic person after a meltdown will only make things worse. The person having the meltdown needs to be understood and talked to with compassion. Once that door has been opened, then mistakes can be talked about and learned from.2023-04-1406 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 85- My definition of neuroqueernessIn this episode I literally "unpack" the term neuroqueerness and what it means to me.2023-04-1007 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 84- Why disabled folks are constantly underestimatedIn this episode I vent a little about the constant ableist thinking that I see among groups of parents and caretakers that constantly underestimate their disabled children for not being able to behave or "function" like non-disabled folks. I highlight that what really needs to happen is more advocacy to make society more accommodating, and stop trying to make disabled folks fit molds designed by non-disabled folks.*I acknowledge that there are many wonderful parents and caretakers who do support their children and advocate for their needs to be met, my issue is with those who don't2023-04-0707 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 83- A better (less ableist) name for ADHDIn this episode I give my personal take on what name I would pick for ADHD in order to still honor the struggles and strengths of this neurotype, without using the term "disorder".2023-04-0406 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 82- How to be a good ally during Autism Acceptance MonthIn this episode I talk about what we need the most from our friends and family members during Autism Acceptance month and how you can help us :)2023-04-0110 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 81- Why the month of April can be exhausting for autistic advocatesIn this episode I talk about how exhausting April can be for advocates like myself, as neurotypical led organizations such as "Autism Speaks" promote eugenics research and conversion therapies through their "Autism Awareness" campaigns, pretending to care about the wellbeing of autistic folks, while speaking over them and vilifying their disabilty, rather than focusing on making society more accomodating.2023-03-3106 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 80- The intersectionality of neurodivergence, queerness and physical disability [A talk with Ayelet Schrek (they/them)]In this episode I talk with Ayelet Schrek, a fellow neurodivergent queer educator who is also physically disabled. Ayalet talks about the intersectionality of those identities and their personal experience living in a society that doesn't properly accommodate different ways of thinking and being.2023-03-281h 54Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 79- The "anxiety epidemic" [A talk with Luana Muniz Gund (she/her)]In this episode I welcome back my sister Luana Gund, who is in the final year of her psychology studies at USC. Lu shares her experiences with GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) and we have a conversation about how important it is to have awareness about anxiety and how prevalent it is in our society. We also recognize the value and importance of advocating for a world where we can have accessible therapy for all.2023-03-2658 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 78- Energy regulation and “spoon” levelsIn this episode I talk about the concept of "spoons" in terms of energy regulation for autistics and ADHDers and how being low on spoons can lead to increased sensitivity and being more prone to meltdowns.2023-03-2406 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 77- ADHD Subtypes (Innatentive, Hyperactive, Combined)In this episode I break down each subtype of ADHD and challenge the thought that ADHD represents only executive dysfunction or difficulty paying attention. I explain that there is so much more to ADHD than those more talked about traits.2023-03-2107 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 76- How autistics and cats bond over being misunderstoodIn this episode I talk about similarities in between autistic people and cats, and how both are often misunderstood, misjudged and mistreated by society2023-03-1805 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 75- Understanding and accepting yourself as an autistic person [A talk with autistic life coach Michelle Markman (she/her)]In this episode I talk with late diagnosed autistic life coach Michelle Markman. We talk about early life experiences, getting diagnosed, and our mission to help other neurodistinct understand and accept themselves, as well as advocate for their needs.*Check out Michelle's website at https://michellemarkman.com/ :)2023-03-1640 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 74- All forms of advocacy are validIn this episode I break down why I feel like we shouldn't be judging people for advocating in their own ways, or we would be enforcing the very systems that we challenge every day.2023-03-1508 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 73- We aren't always doing as well as we may lookIn this episode I tackle how damaging it can be to assume someone is well based on a single observation of something they did or achieved, because we're not seeing all the effort and burnout behind that.2023-03-1305 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 72- ND folks aren't perfect eitherIn this episode I acknowledge that ND people aren't perfect and can make mistakes as well.2023-03-1105 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 71- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)In this episode I talk a little bit about RSD, what it is and why it is so common among autistics and ADHDers.2023-03-1105 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 70- A tribute to Judy Heumann (1947-2023)In this episode I honor Judy Heumann, known as the mother of the disability rights movement.2023-03-0705 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 69- Why many autistics become advocates and activistsIn this episode I explain why our strong sense of justice and hyperfocus traits lead many of us autistics become passionate advocates and activists after we discover how autistic people (especially multiply marginalized autistics) have been deeply misunderstood and mistreated by society.2023-03-0505 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 68- The joys and struggles of a late ADHD diagnosis [A talk with Precious Prado (she/her)]In this episode I talk with fellow actor and MTS alum Precious Prado about her experience being diagnosed with ADHD in her early 20s and how it led her to better accept and understand herself, while also advocating for her support needs to be met.2023-03-031h 43Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 67- A talk about substance abuse and being mislabeled by society [ft. Faina Cherdak (she/her)]In this episode my friend Faina and I share experiences around substance abuse, and talk about our experiences being misunderstood and mislabeled by society as neurodivergent individuals.2023-03-011h 00Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 66- Why hustle culture can be very damagingIn this episode I break down why "hustle culture", which is basically the expectation of always being busy and working, can be very draining for most people, but can be especially damaging to folks with neurodistinct brains.2023-02-2506 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 65- Disproving ableist "ADHD hype trend" theories [A talk with X Rakov (she/they)]In this episode my friend X breaks down a recent problematic article published in the UK from the perspective of an ADHD journalist with a masters in digital culture and society at Kings College London. We also discuss possible new names for ADHD, using the term "attention regulation" rather than disorder. Our cats make brief appearances as well.2023-02-231h 10Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 64- Talking about my childhood with my mother Rosemary Gund (she/her)In this episode I ask my mom a few questions about what it was like raising an undiagnosed autistic child and advocating for accommodations in the late 1990s and early 2000s. We also talk about what it was like when I finally got diagnosed in 2010 at age 16.2023-02-2025 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 63- Why many autistics thrive on detailed planningIn this episode I explain why many autistics like myself need to know as much detail as possible about an outing in order to feel safe and comfortable.2023-02-1808 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 62- The issues with tokenism involving disabled folksIn this episode I explain the problems surrounding tokenism and why instead of drawing inspiration from disabled folks, allies should instead help us advocate for our needs, call out ableism and dissolve stigmas and stereotypes.2023-02-1609 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 61- Why neurodistinct folks tend to create their own strategiesIn this episode I explain how neurodistinct people like myself have essentially been conditioned throughout their lives to think outside the box and find strategies that work best for them, rather than trying to fit neuronormative molds and expectations.2023-02-1404 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 60- Hyperactivity and sleep troublesIn this episode I talk about one of the most relatable things among neurodistinct folks: hyperactivity related sleep troubles. I also give a few examples of certain strategies that may be helpful for some folks experiencing trouble sleeping.*Remember every neurodistinct person is different and has their own preferences and strategies that would best for them.2023-02-1206 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 59- Why it's not ok to assume someone's support needs without knowing themIn this episode I discuss why no one should assume a persons level of support needs without knowing them, as this person may be masking and support needs can often fluctuate many times throughout one single day.2023-02-1003 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 58- My issue with "treatment" ads for neurodivergenceIn this episode I explain the difference in between taking medication as a support for certain struggles and pathologizing an entire neurotype, which perpetuates negative stigmas and stereotypes about disabiltiy.2023-02-0904 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 57- The strong link in between ableism and capitalismIn this episode I talk about the strong connection in between ableism and capitalism, how they work together and why this can be so damaging for many neurodistinct individuals.2023-02-0812 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 56- Autism, ADHD and phobias (featuring a personal story)In this episode I talk a bit about the correlation in between neurodistinct and having phobias, using a personal story as an example.2023-02-0709 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 55- Sensory overload, autistic burnout and how to better accommodate usIn this episode I talk about why it can be hard for non autistics to understand what it really means to experience sensory overload or burnout as an autistic person. I explain what it's like to have sensitivities that trigger reactions that we can't control and end up getting judged and ostracized for. This is all due to systematic social constructs which are rooted in ableism.2023-02-0609 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 54- Reflecting on the impact of this podcast and why it will remain freeIn this episode I take a moment to reflect on how much this podcast has grown and the gratitude I feel for making an impact with my work. I also explain why I plan to keep this podcast free of charge and free of ads, in order for it to remain accessible to as many people as possible.2023-02-0503 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 53- Why many autistics do well in crisis situationsIn this episode I talk about why due to hyperfocus, literal thinking and past traumas, many autistics can thrive when there is a crisis or emergency and swift action needs to be taken.2023-02-0404 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 52- An overview of the term "queer"In this episode I talk a little bit about the history of term "queer", then discuss the idea of expanding it to include anyone who deviates from societal norms, independent of sexual orientation or preferences.*This reflects my own viewpoints and I do not speak for all queer and/or neurodistinct individuals.2023-02-0304 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 51- The importance of recognizing intersectionality within the autistic communityIn this episode I talk about what the term "Aspie Supremacy" means and the importance of acknowledging intersectionality within the autistic community.2023-02-0110 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 50- A talk with my father George F Gund (he/him)In this episode my father and I talk about his experience growing up with undiagnosed ADHD in the 1970s and 1980s, what it was like to get a diagnosis just a couple years ago, after living almost 50 years and having 3 children. We also talk about what it was like raising an undiagnosed autistic child in the 1990s and early 2000s.2023-01-3148 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 49- A witness account of internalized societal prejudiceIn this short bonus episode, I talk about a conversation I overheard in between two ladies that was laced with internalized ableism and made me sad.2023-01-3103 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 48- Why big gatherings can be overwhelming for autisticsIn this episode I explain why big gathering can be overwhelming for a lot of autistic folks and why one on one interactions are the best way to connect with people for many of us.2023-01-3008 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 47- How to accommodate yourself and thrive as a dyslexic person [A talk with Liz (they/them)]In this episode I talk with fellow neuroqueer nonbinary actor Liz to talk about their experience with dyslexia and how they've been able to use their neurodivergence to their advantage despite being looked down on by society from an early age.2023-01-291h 11Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 46- Internalized ableism among Neurodistinct individualsIn this episode I explain how society (through mainstream media and movies) conditions disabled folks to vilify their disability instead of advocating for a society that properly supports and accommodates disabled folks.2023-01-2807 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 45- Why "labels" are helpful and important for many neurodistinct folksIn this episode I explain why more people getting diagnosed or identifying as neurodivergent is actually due (in large part) to increased awareness about how certain conditions can present in different people, and not a simple "hype trend" as many people seem to believe. I talk about how better understanding yourself through a diagnosis or identification label can lead to more acceptance and a better quality of life for many individuals like myself*I do not speak for every neurodistinct person and everyone has their own opinion on this matter.2023-01-2708 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 44- The disconnect among autistic advocates, researchers and parentsIn this episode I explain why autistic advocates, parents and researchers tend to clash so much and why people need to acknowledge that a big part of the burden of disability comes from an ableist society, and this burden shouldn't be placed entirely on disabled people and their families. Everybody out there needs to help us advocate for a society that is more accommodating towards disabled people, so our parents don't have to worry so much about what will be of us when they are gone.2023-01-2608 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 43- Sharing experiences and calling out bullies by name [ft. Faina Cherdak (she/her)]In this episode, my friend Faina and I share experiences about our own journeys with life, school and even some unfortunate bullying events we've been through as neurodistinct individuals trying to grow up in a neurotypical world. I also share an experience I had recently involving ableism in the acting industry.2023-01-251h 15Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 42- Why many autistics also have ADHDIn this episode I talk about the overlap in between Autism and ADHD and why a lot of people have both.2023-01-2410 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 41- Talking ADHD and special interests with my cousin Lucy Gund (she/her)In this episode I ask my cousin Lucy a few questions and we have a nice conversation about her experience with ADHD, how medication has been helpful for her to manage certain struggles such as executive dysfunction and how she has also been able to recognize the positive traits of her ADHD and use her hyperactivity and special interests in fitness and sports to her advantage.2023-01-2315 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 40- A talk with X (she/they)In this episode my friend X talks about her unique experience being diagnosed with ADHD as a cisgender female child, her close relationship with her autistic brother, and her experiences with the intersectionality of being queer and neurodivergent.We also talk about some frustrations we share while trying to communicate with neurotypicals and discuss some of the social constructs that may be responsible for some of these challenges.2023-01-2256 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 39- A beachside interview with my cousin Susannah Bien-Gund (she/her)In this episode my cousin Susannah talks about growing up with undiagnosed ADHD and later coming to the realization that she was neurodistinct after already being married and having two small children.2023-01-2041 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 38- Why recovering from arguments is especially hard for neurodistinct folksIn this episode I talk about why many of us Neurodistinct folks, particularly those with RSD (Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria) struggle even more than our neurotypical peers when it comes to recovering from arguments.2023-01-1810 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 37- Why we need the medical community to better understand usIn this episode I talk about how much better things would be if the medical community listened more to neurodivergent voices when it comes to how we want to be supported and better understood, rather than being treated us as broken or "disordered".2023-01-1505 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 36- The issue with the term "differently abled"In this episode I talk about how despite it generally being used with good intentions, using the term "differently abled" can make some disabled folks like myself feel unheard or invalidated when it comes to our disabilities.2023-01-1307 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 35- Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria and struggles with friendships+relationshipsIn this episode I talk a little bit about the correlation in between being autistic and having relationship struggles and traumas, including an example of something that happened to me recently with an estranged friend.2023-01-1008 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 34- Why not all disabled people should be held to the same standardsIn this episode I explain why it's important to recognize that systemic privileges can exist even within the disabled community and why not all disabled people should be held to the same standards.2023-01-0709 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 33- Why Autistic and ADHD folks need to stimIn this episode I talk more in depth about stimming. I explain what it is and why autistic people and folks with ADHD tend to stim more than neurotypicals.2023-01-0106 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 32- An interview with fellow autistic ADHDer Alex (he/him)In this episode I talk with Alex from the @theworldisahouseonfire Instagram account. I ask him some ND related questions and we have a nice little chat.2022-12-2929 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 31- Busting the myth around Autistic people not having empathyIn this episode I talk about one of the most harmful long standing stereotypes out there: the myth around autistic people not having empathy. The reality of the matter is that we experience less cognitive empathy but more emotional empathy than non-autistics. Tune in to learn more.2022-12-2610 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 30- The blatantly ableist and autistophobic anti-vaccination and medication theoriesIn this episode I discuss the highly problematic and autistophobic anti-medication lawsuits that we continue seeing and hearing about to this very day.2022-12-2107 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 29- A chat about Neurodistinct life with fellow ADHDer Faina Cherdak (she/her)In this episode my friend Faina and I talk about our journeys as Neurodistinct individuals navigating a neurotypical world. We discuss early life, family and school experiences, going through the Meisner Technique training to become actors, and how it all led us to accepting ourselves for who we are and feeling proud of our differences rather than ashamed.*If you like this episode, check out Episode 43 as well, where Faina and I talk again and share experiences around going through the education system as neurodistinct folks in a neurotypical-biased society.2022-12-201h 19Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 28- Reminiscing on my childhood with my Grandmother Theo Gund (she/her)In this episode, my grandma and I talk a little about the history of neurodivergence and mental illness in our family. We also reminisce a little bit on our time together when I was a young, undiagnosed autistic child.2022-12-1823 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 27- Why certain disabilities are considered "invisible" by societyIn this episode I talk about how ableist preconceptions of what disability is supposed to look like is what leads certain disabilities being deemed "invisible", and why I believe disability shouldn’t be viewed as a tragedy.2022-12-1807 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 26- Why I believe Elon Musk is harming the autistic communityIn this episode I talk about why I believe Elon Musk is harming his community and he shouldn't be talked about as a representation of Autistic people as far as I am concerned.2022-12-1608 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 25- The shameful Autism related comments made by Kanye WestThis is an episode I didn't plan on recording originally but unfortunately felt the need to. I explain why recent comments made by Kanye West, where he claims to believe that he might be "a little bit autistic", are deeply problematic and will continue to perpetuate negative stigmas and stereotypes about Autism that advocates like myself have been continuosely fighting against for decades.2022-12-1605 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 24- Autism, ADHD and food selectivityIn this episode, I explain why many Autistic and ADHD folks often get mislabeled as picky eaters and why we simply can't handle the texture of certain foods.2022-12-1405 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 23- The autistic need for predictability and clear direct communicationIn this episode I talk about why predictability and direct communication are so important for autistic people and why we should all honor that as a society.2022-12-1118 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 23- Why you should never ghost an Autistic personIn this episode, speaking from personal experience, I explain why being ghosted can be such a painful and traumatic experience for autistic people and why an honest (albeit uncomfortable) conversation is usually the better option in these scenarios, at least for me.2022-12-1104 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 22- The problematic history of the puzzle piece for AutismIn this episode I talk about why the puzzle piece is so problematic and offensive to a lot of autistics, and what to use instead.2022-12-0406 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 21- Answering questions from my Grandmother Theo Gund (she/her)In this episode I answer a few questions about the history of Autism asked by my Grandmother Theo GundIf you enjoy this episode tune in to Part 2 of our conversation (Episode 28)!2022-12-0112 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 20- Why Aspergers Syndrome was removed from the DSMIn this episode I talk about the dirty history of Hans Asperger and why his name should have never been used as a diagnosis.2022-11-2905 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 19- Why Autism is not a linear scaleIn this episode I explain why there is no such thing as "mild" or "severe" autism and why using those terms can propagate negative stigmas and stereotypes about autism.2022-11-2705 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 18- My review of Netflix's "Atypical"In this episode, I give an honest review of the show "Atypical", from my perspective as an Autistic Actor.2022-11-2524 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 17- Why Allyship is so importantIn this episode I talk about why people like me advocate so hard for our cuases and why allyship is more important now than ever before.2022-11-2306 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 16- A conversation with neurodistinct actor Maeve Montgomery (she/her)In this episode I have a very insightful and resourceful conversation with fellow MTS alum and ADHD actor Maeve Montgomery. We talk about our experiences studying the Meisner technique and how it has helped us not just with acting, but with our unmasking journeys and accepting our true identities as neurodistinct individuals, while also acknowledging that there is nothing wrong with being the way we are.2022-11-201h 04Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 15- The problematic history of ABA TherapyIn this episode I discuss the ableist history surrounding the creation ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy. I also explain why many Autistic adults that went through ABA as a child have developed PTSD as a result and why the traditional style of ABA therapy can be problematic.*It is important to acknowledge that despite it's serious problems, ABA is still the only support therapy available to many families and many ABA practicioners have come to learn how to apply more neurodiversity affirming practices in their work.2022-11-1815 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 14-Why you should NEVER support Autism SpeaksIn this episode I talk about the (non-austic led) organization "Autism Speaks" and how despite painting themselves as "helping" autistics, they are actually trying to eliminate Autism from the earth through eugenics based research.2022-11-1511 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 13- Why I changed my views on "The Good Doctor"In this episode, I talk about the show a "The Good Doctor" from ABC and why I feel like it misses the mark on accurate Autistic representation.2022-11-1511 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 12- Identity First Language and the Double Empathy TheoryIn this episode I talk about why the majority of Autistic people overwhelmingly prefer to be called "Autistic person" rather than "Person with Autism".I also talk about the Double Empathy Theory by Dr. Damian Milton and why we shouldn't view Autistic ways of communicating as deficits or disorders.2022-11-1209 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 11- Why Eye Contact is uncomfortable for Autistics+Neurodistinct styles of communicationIn this episode I discuss why for us Autistics, eye contact isn't the primary way that we show engagement, and why it can be very uncomfortable or even painful to some of us. I also discuss other ways that Autistics tend to show engagement, that may differ from standard neuronormative forms of communication.2022-11-1114 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 10- Why most autistics and ADHDers work in spurtsIn this episode, I talk about some positive autism traits that are seldom discussed outside the autistic community. I also discuss how Neurodistinct people have different working styles and support needs compared to their neurotypical peers.2022-11-0821 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 9- A conversation with my longtime friend and fellow autie Lisa Schatz (they/them)In this episode, I am joined by my longtime friend Lisa for a chat about our experiences growing up as undiagnosed neurodistinct individuals in a very ableist (and also sexist) school culture.2022-11-071h 07Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 8- Why autistic meltdowns are NOT tantrumsIn this episode I talk a little about Autistic Meltdowns, what causes them and the burnout and shutdown symptoms that can follow a meltdown episode. I also talk about Autism related disabilities and how important it is to not associate those with Autism as a whole. To finish, I briefly explain what a dynamic disability is.2022-11-0429 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 7- Things to avoid saying to Autistic peopleIn this episode I cover some of the most common microagressions out there that many Autistics like myself are tired of non-autistics saying to us, even if the intent is positive2022-11-0120 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 6- What is Autistic MaskingIn this episode, I talk about the concept of Autistic masking: What it is, why we do it and how Non-autistics can help us by being more understanding and accepting of our differences :)2022-10-2918 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 5- Why Diagnosis is a privelegeIn this episode I discuss how Autism is still severely misunderstood and underdiagnosed and why self diagnosis is the only option for many autistics and that should be honored and respected2022-10-2911 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 4- A conversation with my sister Luana Muniz Gund (she/her)In this episode I host my very first guest, someone very close to me, my sister Luana Muniz Gund. Luana talks about her unique perspective growing up with an autistic brother and a little bit about her perspective as a psychology student on the issues around the current discourse around autism in this field and also in society at large.2022-10-2744 minUnpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 3- A few examples of Neurodiversity affirming accommodationsIn this episode I talk about some Neurodiversity related accommodations that can help neurodistinct students and/or clients thrive without trying to change the way their brains work2022-10-2619 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 2- The social model of disability and the problem with the term "Special Needs"In this episode I talk a little bit about my style of podcasting, give an overview of some common Neurodiversity terms and discuss the social model of disability as a challenge to the medical model of disability, as well as the issue with using the term "Special Needs"2022-10-2526 min
Unpacking NeuroqueernessEpisode 1- My introduction to the Neurodiversity ParadigmWelcome to my new podcast! In this episode I talk a little bit about myself, how I came in to the Neurodiversity world, and how changing my perspective on Autism and Neurodiversity has been so helpful for me2022-10-2315 min