Autism, Neurodiversity, and Belonging, Part I: A Conversation with Dr. Sarah Edmunds

Autism has become more visible than ever, but with that visibility comes evolving conversations about identity, diagnosis, and belonging. In this episode of Spill Your Guts, Dr. Sarah Edmunds, Assistant Professor at the University of South Carolina and Director of the COLAB (Community Oriented Lab for Autism and Behavioral Interventions), joins us to explore the intersection of clinical understanding and lived experience.This is Part I of a two-week series, where we begin with the research perspective before turning to lived experiences in next week’s episode.We discuss how society’s view of autism is shifting from a strictly medical model toward a more nuanced, identity-centered perspective. Dr. Edmunds breaks down myths about autism, highlights strengths alongside challenges, and dives into topics like masking, access to care, and what it means to create environments where neurodivergent people can thrive.Whether you’re autistic, love someone who is, or simply want to better understand neurodiversity, this conversation will leave you with deeper insight — and hope for a more neuro-inclusive future.Connect with Dr. Edmunds and the COLAB: https://www.uofsc-colab.com/people.htmlMusic Credit: Nathan Byrne with Reel Byrne MediaTo support guts’ work, visit our ⁠⁠⁠website: www.gutsnonprofit.org Note: The information in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical/therapeutic advice. Such information is not intended nor otherwise implied to be mental health advice or a substitute for mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a mental health or medical professional. If you become distressed and need support, call 988 to access the free 24/7 Crisis Hotline, call 911, or visit your nearest emergency room.