Episode 5: Autistic Identity vs. Diagnosis, and Comic Con

This week's episode, we’re diving headfirst into autistic identity—what it means, how it differs from a medical diagnosis, and why the DSM criteria kind of miss the point. We’re also calling out the neurotypical gatekeeping that makes getting a diagnosis way harder than it needs to be.Here’s what we get into:Why you’re still autistic even if no doctor has given your identity their stamp of approvalHow the DSM is loaded with ableism—and Matt’s affirming way to reframe itEcholalia, stimming, and our love of routines (yes, even Taylor Swift on repeat)Comic-Con vibes to Pedro Pascal as Mr. FantasticAs always, it’s part theory, part lived experience, and a whole lot of geeky tangents—because we’re not here to fit into neurotypical boxes.