Herding Cats by FDM

"It's important to look at our environment." - Morénike Giwa OnaiwuOswin, Morenike, Kassiane and Renae return to explore the neurodiversity movement, from autistic “superpowers” and ADHD overlaps to the real challenges of access, sensory processing, and energy management. Learn how strength-based approaches, inclusive frameworks, and ethical perspectives can reshape how we understand and support neurodiverse lives.🎧 Listen on: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7C4IU92E2STV5FEYglW38p?si=2871f993cd2e4bb6Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/herding-cats-by-fdm/id1790942374YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCVqD01Um_rapfF72HklUi8A 📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @FDMorg💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjI2ODQ1

"We need funding and training." - Oswin LatimerIn this episode of Herding Cats, we dive deep into the realities of neurodiversity, advocacy, and inclusion. Hosts, Oswin, Renae, Kassiane, and Morenike unpack why society often frames neurodivergent expression as something to control rather than embrace, while also tackling the flaws in the ABA system and its impact on families. From breaking down Aspie supremacy and harmful misconceptions about evolution, to addressing how diversity, equity, and inclusion must truly represent all identities, this conversation shines a light on the urgent need for reform, empowerment, and funding in the neurodiversity movement.You’ll gain insights into:* Why linking neurodiversity advocacy to social justice matters.* The hidden challenges of the ABA system and how parents can navigate it responsibly.* The dangers of leaving out those who need the most support in the neurodiversity conversation.* How funding, training, and historical context are critical for the future of advocacy.This episode is a call to action for anyone passionate about creating authentic inclusion and respect for all neurodivergent people, not just the “high-functioning.”📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @FDMorg💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjI2ODQ1Learn more about @FDMorg : https://www.divergentminds.org/📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @FDMorg💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjI2ODQ1Learn more about @FDMorg : https://www.divergentminds.org/

"This is what RFKJr is funding." - Oswin Latimer🔥 In this powerful episode, we unpack the myths and misconceptions about autism, spotlighting RFK’s controversial claims, the dark history of eugenics, and the dangerous role pseudoscience still plays in treatment approaches. The discussion explores how race, class, and systemic biases shape the autism narrative, while emphasizing the urgent need for awareness, advocacy, and community support. Parents, caregivers, and allies will gain critical insights into protecting autistic individuals from harmful practices and ensuring their humanity and dignity are always recognized.📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @FDMorg💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjI2ODQ1Learn more about @FDMorg : https://www.divergentminds.org/

"We exist offline. Like we do exist offline." - Oswin LatimerOswin, Morenike and Kassiane continue their conversation on the evolution of autism advocacy, the power of digital communities, and the need for inclusive, unstructured play. There is no mincing words as they address the evolving definition of community, both in the digital and physical world. The biggest points for consideration: centralized resources, the need for universal design, and accessible spaces for all.🔹 Key Takeaways:✅ Individualized support is vital, but a central hub for information is needed.✅ Autism advocacy has evolved significantly, shaping public awareness and policy.✅ Digital spaces impact how autistic individuals connect and socialize.✅ Unstructured play fosters development and well-being.✅ True inclusion means integrating accessible spaces into everyday environments.✅ Universal design benefits everyone, not just the neurodiverse community.✅ The rise in neurodiversity research is shaping a more inclusive future.✅ Online communities offer support but can also lead to isolation.✅ Small advocacy wins matter—celebrate progress!✅ The future of neurodiversity is bright with growing awareness and resources.Learn more about  @FDMorg  : https://www.divergentminds.org/A huge thank you to Ablenet for sponsoring this season of Herding Cats!🎧 Listen on:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7C4IU92...Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...YouTube : / @fdmorg 📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: ‪@FDMorg‬ 💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons: https://www.flipcause.com/secure/cause_pdetails/MjI2ODQ1

"All you needed to do was apologize." - Kassiane AsasumasuJoin us for an eye-opening discussion on the neurodiversity movement, from the unique culture of autism conferences like Autreat to the evolution of accessibility tools like communication badges, this conversation highlights the ongoing fight for inclusion and understanding.Oswin, Morénike and Kassiane dive into the politics of autism advocacy, the impact of digital socialization on neurodivergent youth, and the importance of unstructured play. They also tackle past controversies, the progress in autism awareness, and the push for more inclusive spaces.🔹 The quirky nature of autism events🔹 Sensory experiences & accessibility needs🔹 The evolving language of autism advocacy🔹 Why community support matters more than everLearn more about  @FDMorg  : https://www.divergentminds.org/💬 How can we create a more inclusive world for neurodivergent individuals?#Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #Accessibility

In this powerful episode of Herding Cats, Oswin, Morenike and Kassiane confront the harsh reality of violence against disabled individuals and the growing list of names remembered on the Disability Day of Mourning. They discuss the systemic failures, lack of support services, and the deep-rooted ableism that fuels these tragedies. As disability rights face growing threats, we explore the urgent need for community awareness, intersectional advocacy, and policy change to protect vulnerable individuals.🔹 Why is the list of names increasing?🔹 How do regressive policies impact disability rights?🔹 What can we do to demand justice and systemic change?Learn more from The Foundation of Divergent Minds: https://www.divergentminds.org/🎧 Listen now and join the movement for disability justice.#DisabilityRights #Ableism #DisabilityDayOfMourning #DisabilityAdvocacy #SocialJustice #Autism

"I think we can still reignite all of this with people." - Oswin LatimerIn this insightful discussion, Foundations for Divergent Minds Board Members, Oswin, Morenike and Kassiane continue reminiscing as they dive into the radical roots and current stagnation of the neurodiversity movement. 🧠💡 The conversation unpacks:✅ The history and evolution of neurodiversity activism✅ How societal shifts have impacted the movement✅ The tension between individualism & collective advocacy✅ Burnout among activists and the need for better support systems✅ The future of neurodiversity and the role of community engagement in driving real change🌍 If you're passionate about neurodiversity, inclusion, and advocacy, this episode is a must-watch! Join the conversation and help shape the future of the movement.Learn more about Foundations for Divergent Minds: https://www.divergentminds.org/🔔 Subscribe now for more in-depth discussions on neurodiversity and social change!#Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #Advocacy #SyyaYasotornrat #NeurodiversityMovement #AutismAcceptance #DisabilityRights #CommunitySupport #Activism #BurnoutPrevention

What is the Big Tent in Neurodiversity?It's been 30 years since the Neurodiversity movement began, but our history? It’s scattered—spread across the internet, lost to defunct websites, and held in the memories of those who were there.Foundations for Divergent Minds board—Kassiane Asasumasu, Morénike Giwa-Onaiwu, Renae Martin, and Oswin Latimer discuss the complexities of neurodiversity, emphasizing the need for a broad and inclusive understanding that goes beyond traditional definitions. There's exploration of the historical context of the neurodiversity movement, the cultural erasure of diverse voices, and the importance of intersectionality in understanding identity. The conversation also touches on the evolution of language within the neurodiversity community, the perspectives of youth, and the necessity for sensory-friendly medical practices.Join the conversation as they meander through the moments that shaped today’s Autistic community. Expect deep dives, infodumps, candid untold stories, and a heavy dose of chaos along the way.A huge thank you to AbleNet for sponsoring this season of Herding Cats!🎧 Listen on: SpotifyApple PodcastsYouTube📌 Follow us:Facebook: Foundations for Divergent MindsTwitter, Bluesky, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube: @FDMorg💡 Want to support the show? Donate or sponsor for future seasons.Chapters00:00 Understanding Neurodiversity: A Big Tent Approach02:47 The Importance of Historical Context in Neurodiversity06:09 Cultural Erasure and Misattribution in Neurodiversity09:01 Intersectionality and Identity in Neurodivergent Communities11:56 The Evolution of Language in Neurodiversity14:54 Youth Perspectives on Neurodiversity17:46 Personal Experiences and Medical Narratives20:53 The Need for Sensory-Friendly Medical Practices#neurodiversity #neurodivergent #intersectionality #culturalerasure #identity #historicalcontext #sensoryfriendly #youthperspectives #community

"Welcome to Herding Cats and other stories. I thought this might be a good podcast idea." - Oswin LatimerThis podcast episode explores the origins and evolution of the neurodiversity movement, reflecting on the community's history, influential figures, and the impact of social media. The hosts discuss the importance of satire in autism awareness, the significance of the 'Tone It Down Taupe' movement, and the challenges faced by the community today. They emphasize the need for genuine advocacy and support for autistic individuals, while also reminiscing about the connections and losses within the community.Takeaways:The podcast aims to share stories from the neurodiversity movement.The hosts reflect on their personal experiences and community connections.There is a concern about the lack of awareness of past influential figures.The community has evolved through different waves of advocacy.Satire plays a crucial role in challenging negative perceptions of autism.Tone It Down Taupe serves as a counter-movement to traditional autism awareness campaigns.Social media has both positive and negative impacts on neurodiversity advocacy.The importance of amplifying autistic voices and experiences is emphasized.The hosts express a desire for more genuine community support.The conversation highlights the need for continued advocacy and awareness efforts. Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts03:02 The Genesis of the Neurodiversity Movement05:53 Reflections on Community and Loss09:14 The Impact of Early Influencers11:45 Navigating Online Spaces and Resources15:09 The Role of Satire in Autism Awareness17:59 Tone It Down Taupe: A Counter Movement20:53 The Evolution of Neurodiversity Advocacy23:50 The Influence of Social Media on Awareness27:05 Conclusion and Call to ActionThis podcast is brought to you by Foundations for Divergent Minds