This podcast offers vital insights into autism, explaining why it's a 'spectrum condition' that comes with various sensory, communication, and social challenges. Drawing on the Autism Info Center's popular books, it covers key ideas such as sensory sensitivities, masking, stimming, and the importance of routines and special interests. For autistic people, it validates their experiences and offers coping strategies. And for those who encounter or care for autistic people, it provides practical advice for clear communication, creating sensory-friendly spaces, and building genuine acceptance, which makes for a more inclusive and understanding world.

In this Autism Infocast, we explore autism as a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, affecting how people perceive, communicate, and interact. You'll learn why it's not an illness, but a diverse spectrum of experiences, strengths, and challenges, helping to dispel common misconceptions. We cover core characteristics like social communication differences and sensory experiences, giving you a clearer picture of how autistic people navigate the world. We'll help you to understand the vital concept of neurodiversity, highlighting the unique talents and perspectives that autistic thinking brings. This will foster a more informed and respectful understanding of autism and the language we use.

In this Autism Infocast, you'll learn how to redefine what a full and happy life means when you are autistic. We cover ways to challenge common misconceptions and focus on the unique strengths that come with an autistic neurology, often called "superpowers." We'll give you strategies for managing challenges like sensory overload and navigating social situations more comfortably. You'll also discover the importance of nurturing special interests and building a strong support network. We'll help you to embrace your authentic self, advocating for your needs, and ultimately thrive, living a successful and meaningful life on your own terms.

In this Autism Infocast, you'll learn how many autistic people experience the world through a uniquely tuned sensory lens, making everyday sensations powerfully intense or even overwhelming. We cover what it means to be over-sensitive or under-sensitive across all senses, exploring how these neurological differences profoundly shape daily life and can lead to sensory overload. You'll gain practical strategies to build a personal sensory toolkit and help you manage these experiences. We also give you insights on how family and friends can adapt environments and provide crucial support, working towards a more comfortable and accommodating world for all people.

In this special Autism Infocast for autistic people, you'll learn about a life-changing way to live a happier, more authentic life. We explain all the hidden costs of constantly adapting to other people's expectations, exploring why many feel like they're 'playing a part' rather than truly living. You'll learn how and why this constant 'masking' effort leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and autistic burnouts, and we'll explain lots of clear, practical ways you can reclaim your unique strengths, have more genuine connections with other people, and feel the immense relief that comes from being your real self! This podcast is all about finding freedom, value, and joy by simply embracing who you are rather than hiding behind an absolutely exhausting mask all the time.

In this Autism Infocast, we explore the rich tapestry of friendship for autistic people. Many autistic people deeply desire connection, and you'll learn how they can build authentic, fulfilling bonds by focusing on shared interests and being their true selves. We cover the unique complexities, such as navigating unwritten social rules and managing social energy. For neurotypical friends, we'll give you insights on how to be a supportive ally through clear communication and respecting different needs. We'll help you to understand and appreciate diverse expressions of care, fostering strong, mutual connections that truly enrich everyone's lives.

In this Autism Infocast, we explore how autistic people can successfully find a fulfilling career. You'll learn to identify your incredible strengths, such as deep focus and logical thinking, which are highly valued by employers. We cover strategies for crafting effective CVs and navigating complex application forms. We'll give you crucial advice on preparing for interviews, including how to request reasonable adjustments to showcase your true abilities. We'll help you to consider the right sensory environment and find employers committed to diversity. This will empower you to find a role where you can not only work but truly thrive, recognising the unique advantages you bring.

In this special Autism Infocast for educators, you'll learn how to help autistic people truly thrive in educational settings. We'll give you insights into their unique strengths, from deep focus to logical thinking, alongside common challenges like sensory sensitivities and social interactions. We cover key strategies for creating an inclusive environment, including clear communication and visual aids. You'll also understand the vital role of collaboration between educators and parents in implementing formal support. We'll help you to unlock every student's potential by adapting environments and fostering acceptance, ensuring autistic people feel understood and ready to learn, beyond just surviving. This discussion will equip you with practical approaches to make a real difference.

In this Autism Infocast, we explore the fascinating concept of neurodiversity, where brains simply work in different ways. You'll learn about common traits associated with autism, focusing not on diagnosis, but on fostering greater empathy and understanding in your everyday encounters. We cover unique approaches to communication, like direct speech or varied non-verbal cues. We also discuss patterns in behaviour, such as a strong need for routine or intense interests, and different reactions to sensory input. We'll give you insights into why many conditions can appear similar, helping you avoid assumptions. We'll help you to shift your perspective, encouraging patience and kindness, creating a more inclusive world.

This Autism Infocast delves into the lifelong journey of autism and how its traits can evolve with age, pointing out that while established routines and special interests can be strengths, challenges such as accessing appropriate healthcare and avoiding social isolation are common concerns. We also stress the importance of planning ahead for future support, housing, medical care, and finances, and we suggest using tools like Autism Hospital Passports and Advocacy to make sure your individual needs are met and independence is maintained throughout later life. The bottom line is that we're promoting a true, person-centred approach to ageing with autism, aiming to help autistic people access more respectful and understanding support.

According to Forbes magazine, there are significant workplace challenges for neurodivergent employees. Research shows one in three worry about being fired if they disclose their condition, half hide it during interviews, and 91% mask their symptoms at work. Many experience bias, bullying, and a lack of support, with 69% struggling with imposter syndrome. Paradoxically, 82% of neurodivergent workers believe their condition enhances valuable skills like creativity and attention to detail. Experts advise employers to foster inclusivity through flexible work arrangements, skills-based hiring, open dialogue, and better manager training to retain this valuable talent.

A study published in 'Autism' (UK) has explored the difficult decision autistic adults face when disclosing their diagnosis. Researchers interviewed twelve adults diagnosed within the last ten years, revealing that disclosure is a complex and ongoing process, not a one-time event. For many, sharing their diagnosis can be a positive step towards gaining support, encouraging self-acceptance, and engaging in advocacy. However, it also carries significant risks, including exposure to disbelief, harmful stereotypes, and emotional distress. Many participants reported being invalidated by comments such as, "you don't seem autistic." Consequently, some adopt partial disclosure strategies, explaining their needs without naming autism to avoid stigma. The study concludes that there is a significant need for structured post-diagnostic support to help newly diagnosed adults navigate these challenges, emphasising that the burden of education should not fall solely on autistic people themselves.

Harvard University is undergoing a significant restructuring of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) infrastructure, replacing many DEI offices with new units focused on "community and belonging" or "academic culture and community." This shift comes amid increased pressure from the US federal government, with concerns raised about the university's accreditation and tax-exempt status. Several graduate schools have either closed or renamed their DEI offices, and key personnel changes have occurred. The move reflects a broader institutional change in response to ongoing legal and financial tensions with the US government regarding DEI policies.

In a commendable act of principle, Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has sacrificed at least US$37.5 million in federal funding by refusing to comply with the Trump administration's ban on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. This bold stance demonstrates a true commitment to the city's values over financial gain. The airport's leaders rejected a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandate that would have forced them to abandon long-standing initiatives that support minority and women-owned businesses. These programs, a legacy of former Mayor Maynard Jackson, have been pivotal in establishing Atlanta's reputation as a place of opportunity for Black entrepreneurs. By choosing to uphold its dedication to economic justice and find alternative funding for necessary projects, the city of Atlanta is sending a clear message: It is standing firm against discriminatory policies and prioritising the community and principles that have make the city a beacon of progress and opportunity.

Chippenham Museum is holding a series of autism-friendly quiet time sessions during the summer holidays. Running every Tuesday and Thursday morning until 28th August 2025, the sessions are designed to be a more relaxed and less crowded environment for autistic children and their families. These free, bookable events feature different fashion-themed activities each week, including exploring clothing history, making woven items, and creating accessories. The sessions aim to provide a comfortable and engaging museum experience for children who may find regular public sessions overwhelming.

Some autistic teens mask their traits to "pass" as non-autistic in social settings, but a new study reveals the hidden cognitive toll. Using EEG, researchers found these teens show faster automatic responses to faces and dampened emotional reactivity, suggesting their brains may adapt to cope with social demands. The findings could improve identification and support for autistic teens who go unnoticed in schools. Teens who mask autism show faster facial recognition and muted emotional response. Surprisingly, 44% of autistic teens in the study passed as non-autistic in classrooms, so the study concluded that there's a need to better identify and support masked autistic teens.

Thurrock-based author and film-maker Samuel Turner has released a new book titled "Treetops - A Specialist School That Changed My Life." The book is a tribute to Treetops School in Grays, where he was educated. The article highlights how the school's teaching and care changed his life as a person with autism and ADHD. Turner, who has previously won awards for his first book, "The Autistic Side of Love," aims to raise awareness about the talents of autistic authors and inspire others to share their stories.

A study from the UC Davis MIND Institute (published in the Autism Journal) has found that autistic children are much more likely to suffer from persistent and multiple gastrointestinal (GI) problems compared to their typically developing peers. The long-term research followed 475 children and established a strong connection between these digestive issues and greater challenges with sleep, communication, sensory processing, and behaviour. Researchers noted that these GI symptoms often lack a clear medical cause but can persist for years, validating observations many parents have made. The findings highlight the deep connection between the brain and body. The authors urge clinicians to routinely ask about GI issues during check-ups, as treating these common problems can lead to significant improvements in a child's physical comfort, developmental outcomes, and overall quality of life. Addressing gut health is seen as a crucial part of comprehensive autism care.

A 13-year-old autistic girl in Cambridgeshire has been out of school for nearly two years due to council delays in providing appropriate support. Her mother, Sarah, described her fight for help as a "constant battle". The Local Government Ombudsman ordered Cambridgeshire County Council to pay the family £4,700 for failing to provide a suitable education for her daughter, Sophia, and for delaying an assessment for an education, health and care (EHC) plan. A council meeting heard that more than 80% of complaints about its provision for pupils with special education needs were upheld. The council cited an "unprecedented" increase in demand for its services, with EHC plans having more than doubled since 2018.

The Human Rights Commission in Bermuda has published its Disability Inclusion Report which focuses on the lived experiences of people with disabilities (such as autism), and the barriers to inclusion that they commonly face. The report has recommended a series of areas that need to be addressed, including: Representation ("Nothing About As Without Us"); Compliance, Accountability and Enforcement; Financial Support (a dignity-first approach); Government leadership and systemic change; Disability advocacy and representation in the community; Data collection and progress measurement; Accessibility (removing physical, digital and societal barriers); Legislation, policy and practice; Education, awareness and community engagement; and a National Disability Strategy.