Autism Isn’t a “Label” — It’s Real Life: Yenn Purkis

In Episode 85 of Solo Spotlight, Ryan sits down with Yenn Purkis — autistic and non-binary author, presenter, and advocate — for a practical, honest conversation about what autism really looks like in day-to-day life.Yenn shares their journey through diagnosis, mental health systems, and rebuilding identity over time — including why they didn’t fully accept their diagnosis for years, and how finding the right community and language can change everything.We also get into what real support actually looks like — especially in workplaces: listening to autistic staff, building inclusive culture, sensory-friendly changes (like fragrance-free spaces), and how simple misunderstandings can cost someone a job if managers don’t understand what’s happening.Finally, we spotlight Yenn’s work as an author: how their books grew organically from real needs (employment, mental health, practical guides), and why their writing focuses on tools people can actually use.