Just a quick announcement: From episode 10 onward, we will be publishing new episodes on Mondays and Thursdays!

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Cher, creator of the TikTok page “Navigating Neurospicy Love,” where she shares her journey of loving and living with her late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD husband, Darren. After 27 years of marriage, Darren’s diagnosis has been a turning point, offering clarity and transforming their relationship. Cher shares candid stories about the challenges of late diagnosis, navigating communication hurdles, and learning to support a neurodivergent partner while taking care of herself.

Cher opens up about the unique struggles and joys of neurodiverse relationships. She talks about finding resources when there were none, overcoming societal misconceptions about autism, and how patience, understanding, and a bit of humor can make all the difference. Her TikTok project aims to foster understanding and support for others in similar relationships, providing a much-needed voice for neurotypical partners navigating neurodiversity.

We explore how Cher and Darren have developed tools to communicate better, the impact of sensory sensitivities on daily life, and how identifying as neurodivergent has reshaped their dynamic. Cher also shares practical advice for couples managing the complexities of neurodiverse love and why open conversations about trauma and masking are crucial for healing and growth.

Topics covered in Episode 10

• Late Diagnosis: Darren’s autism diagnosis after 25 years of marriage and how it changed everything.

• Navigating Neurodiverse Relationships: How Cher and Darren have learned to support each other through communication, understanding, and humor.

• Sensory Sensitivities: The small adjustments that make a big difference in daily life for neurodiverse couples.

• TikTok Advocacy: Cher’s mission to support neurotypical partners and foster greater understanding of neurodivergence.

• Masking & Identity: The challenges of unmasking and how it affects neurodiverse relationships.

• Communication Tools: Techniques Cher and Darren use to bridge their differences and find connection.

About Cher

Cher is the creator of “Navigating Neurospicy Love,” (@neurospicy.love4) a TikTok page dedicated to sharing insights and advice for partners of neurodivergent individuals. She lives in Madison, Wisconsin, where she continues to explore how love, patience, and humor can help navigate the complexities of neurodiverse relationships.

Resources & Links Mentioned

• Navigating Neurospicy Love: Cher’s TikTok page (@neurospicy.love4) , sharing lessons from her journey.

• Books & Shows Referenced: Atypical, Rain Man (1988) and Love on the Spectrum.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Philipp Wolf, a German serial entrepreneur and producer based in Montreal, Canada. Philipp founded and runs Swyvl, a company focused on empowering individuals to understand and embrace neurodiversity through immersive experiences. With a rich background in visual effects production, Philipp has contributed to blockbuster films like Dune: Part One and Ghost in the Shell, and his expertise in emerging technologies, international co-productions, and IP development makes him a driving force in virtual production and innovation.

Philipp shares his deeply personal journey of discovering and embracing his neurodivergent identity, which began with subtle hints from social media algorithms and culminated in a life-changing diagnosis at 38. He explores the nuanced dynamics of masking, the challenges of unmasking in long-term relationships, and how self-acceptance has transformed his understanding of himself and those around him.

The conversation dives into topics such as the intersection of autism and alexithymia, the complexities of energy management, and the importance of building supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. Philipp’s candid reflections offer hope and guidance for anyone navigating the journey of self-discovery and acceptance, whether neurodivergent or neurotypical.

Topics Covered:

• Philipp’s journey to an autism diagnosis and the role of self-acceptance

• Masking and unmasking: navigating relationships and authenticity

• The connection between autism and alexithymia

• Finding balance between self-advocacy and compromise in relationships

• Embracing change and the role of self-awareness in managing energy

• Why creating supportive environments benefits everyone

• Redefining success and validation from external to internal

About Philipp

Philipp Wolf (he/him) is a German serial entrepreneur and producer based in Montreal, Canada. As the leader of Swyvl, he is dedicated to fostering understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity through innovative and immersive experiences. Philipp has an extensive background in visual effects production, with contributions to films such as Dune: Part One and Ghost in the Shell. His expertise spans emerging technologies, international co-productions, and IP development, with a focus on pushing the boundaries of virtual production.

Philipp also serves on the Visual Effects Society Board of Directors and the Producers Guild of America’s Production Innovation Taskforce. Diagnosed as autistic later in life, he has embarked on a profound journey of self-discovery, using his experiences to inspire others to embrace their unique identities. Through his work and personal insights, Philipp champions the beauty of neurodiversity and advocates for creating inclusive, empowering environments for all.