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.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Cheyenne, a late-diagnosed neurodivergent individual navigating life with autism, ADHD, and a history of trauma. Cheyenne is a devoted mother and wife, an advocate for vulnerable communities, and a passionate explorer of art, nature, and growth.

Cheyenne’s story is one of resilience and transformation. From a tumultuous childhood marked by abuse and manipulation, she’s worked tirelessly to redefine intimacy, love, and trust in her adult life. Through unmasking her neurodivergence and breaking generational cycles of abuse, Cheyenne has cultivated a family life filled with honesty, comfort, and unconditional love.

This episode dives into how autism can shape one’s understanding of connection and empathy. Cheyenne shares how her son’s potential autism diagnosis sparked her own journey of self-discovery and how her husband’s unwavering support helped her reclaim her agency. Together, they’ve created a loving environment rooted in mutual growth and understanding, offering a powerful glimpse into what it means to heal and thrive.

Trigger warnings

This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, child abuse, trauma, and manipulation. While graphic details are not included, the topics may be sensitive for some listeners. Please take care of yourself .

Topics covered

• Cheyenne’s journey as a late-discovered neurodivergent individual

• Breaking generational cycles of abuse

• Reclaiming intimacy and defining healthy relationships

• Autism and the experience of empathy

• The challenges of navigating diagnostic processes in rural areas

• Building a family life grounded in unconditional love and support

• How media portrayals of love inspired healing and change

About Cheyenne

Cheyenne is a 29-year-old mother, wife, artist, and advocate living in Missouri. Passionate about nurturing growth and breaking cycles of trauma, she finds joy in gardening, creating art, and advocating for marginalized communities, including plants and animals. Coming from a difficult background, she is committed to fostering healthier, more authentic relationships in her family and community. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative nature of love and understanding.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Kendra Koch, founder of Divergently, a platform for late-diagnosed neurodivergent women. Kendra shares her diagnosis journey, which began during her pregnancy and the pandemic. We discuss the unique challenges neurodivergent women face, including masking, sensory sensitivities, and navigating societal expectations. We discuss why so many women are diagnosed later in life and how Kendra’s experiences inspired her to build a community specifically tailored to their needs.

Kendra introduces Divergently as a safe space offering peer support, expert-led workshops, and practical resources. Designed to bridge the gap between the wellness industry and medical care, it addresses overlooked day-to-day challenges neurodivergent women face. She explains why late-diagnosed women are underserved by traditional systems and highlights the platform’s January launch.

We also explore Kendra’s personal experience with burnout and her commitment to “Building without burnout.” She shares insights into preventing burnout, the importance of the 7 types of rest, and how embracing neurodivergence can foster creativity and connection. This episode is packed with inspiration and actionable ideas for anyone navigating life as a late-diagnosed neurodivergent person.

Trigger warnings for this episode: This episode contains discussions about mental health challenges, burnout, and the impacts of neurodivergence, including sensory sensitivities, societal pressures, and personal struggles with self-worth. While these topics are shared to foster understanding and connection, they may be sensitive or triggering for some listeners. Please take care of yourself while listening.

Topics covered in Episode 7

• Late Diagnosis: How pregnancy and the pandemic led Kendra to her ADHD diagnosis at 34, and her growing awareness of her autism.

• Masking & Identity: The impact of masking and societal expectations on neurodivergent women.

• Divergently: Kendra’s vision for creating a safe and supportive community for late-diagnosed neurodivergent women.

• Burnout Prevention: The personal and systemic challenges of building without burnout, especially for neurodivergent founders.

• The Seven Types of Rest: Exploring physical, mental, emotional, social, sensory, creative, and spiritual rest, and their importance for preventing burnout.

• Advocating for Neurodivergent Needs: Practical tips for navigating work and relationships while honoring your needs

In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Darcy von Borstel, an Adapted Physical Education Specialist from Sacramento, California. Darcy’s work focuses on helping students with diverse abilities, including autistic individuals, improve their gross motor skills and navigate physical education with confidence and creativity.

Darcy shares her insights on how physical education can foster critical life skills like reciprocal play, which helps autistic individuals build meaningful interactions with peers. From using bubble wands as motivation to teaching kids the joy of throwing and catching, she explains how tailoring approaches to each student’s unique needs and interests can transform their learning experience. Darcy also dives into the concepts of proprioception and interoception, shedding light on how sensory processing differences can shape autistic individuals’ relationship with physical activity.

The conversation explores Darcy’s personal journey as well, including her empathy for neurodivergent individuals, shaped by her own experiences with MS, cancer, and the cognitive challenges they’ve brought. Her vulnerability and resilience shine through as she reflects on how these challenges have deepened her patience, awareness, and connection with her students.

Topics Covered:

• ​ The role of physical education in fostering social skills for autistic individuals
• ​ Understanding gross motor skills and their impact on development
• ​ Reciprocal play as a gateway to social interaction
• ​ Proprioception, interoception, and their unique challenges in autism
• ​ The importance of tailored teaching approaches for neurodivergent students
• ​ Darcy’s personal health journey and its influence on her work
• ​ Why the education system still has a long way to go in embracing neurodiversity

In Episode 5 of Autistic FM, we talk to Vance, a 19-year-old autistic, gay, trans man who’s navigating life in Brighton, England, while studying Psychology and Criminology. Vance shares his journey of self-discovery—from realizing he was neurodivergent after a thoughtless comment during an online gaming session to embracing his trans identity in the midst of pandemic-era introspection.

We dive into the intersection of neurodivergence and identity, unpacking themes like masking, dysphoria, and the challenges of navigating relationships as a neurodivergent queer person. Vance shares the power of finding community in a house full of neurodivergent individuals, the joy of feeling seen and understood, and the necessity of safe, inclusive spaces.

Topics included in this episode

• The unexpected moment that sparked Vance’s realization of his neurodivergence

• Why Vance is choosing not to pursue a formal autism diagnosis

• The interplay of neurodivergence and gender identity

• Navigating dysphoria and finding ways to feel more at home in his body

• How masking impacts relationships and daily life

• The role of community in fostering acceptance and connection

• Insights into being perceived accurately in relationships

Note: You may notice some audio inconsistencies in this episode. We’re improving our recording setup to ensure better quality for future interviews—thanks for your patience!

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses dysphoria, masking, and ableism.

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In episode 4, we welcome Jen, a social worker from the Netherlands, who shares her experiences navigating the neurodivergent world with depth and vulnerability. Jen delves into the hidden costs of masking, the profound joy of unmasking, and the concept of “autistic joy”—those pure, unfiltered moments of delight in being true to oneself.

Haje and Jen explore the challenges of growing up undiagnosed and the journey toward self-identification as autistic. They discuss how masking can lead to burnout, the importance of creating inclusive workplaces, and the nuanced understanding of what it means to be authentically autistic. Jen also highlights her experience at Autscape, an autism-friendly conference, as a turning point in feeling deeply seen and understood.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of resilience, acceptance, and the transformative power of connection. Join us for a candid conversation about the costs of masking, the beauty of autistic joy, and the possibilities of creating a world where difference is celebrated.

You can find more of Jen on TikTok, at @Jen.The.Rainbow, and she has a Dutch TikTok at @JenTheRainbowNL. You can also find her on YouTube at @JenTheRainbow.

Topics Covered:

• The challenges of late autism identification

• Masking and its impact on well-being

• Autistic joy and its significance

• Creating inclusive workspaces for neurodivergent individuals

• The role of self-identification and formal diagnoses

• Building authentic relationships while navigating masking

• Jen’s reflections on the Autscape conference as a space of belonging

Trigger Warnings: Brief mentions of burnout and mental health challenges. Listen at your discretion.