Autism Unmasked

Episode 14: Autism and the Justice System - Understanding, Safety, and Advocacy

In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we sit down with Kate and Ryan Hooven, who provide autism-focused trainings to justice professionals across Pennsylvania. Together, we unpack what happens when autistic individuals interact with law enforcement and explore ways to better prepare, advocate, and stay informed.
This conversation covers:
What autistic individuals and supporters should know before interacting with law enforcement
Common barriers and misunderstandings within the justice system
Practical strategies for self-advocacy and communication
How trainings like theirs are working to create more informed, supportive systems
Additional Resources:
Justice Resource Collection
Justice Resources Map
Request A Justice Training

Episode 13: Passion in Focus Mini-Series - Reed and Michael: Connection Through Film

Reed and Michael talk about their shared love of cinema and the podcast they created together to explore films in depth. They discuss what makes movies meaningful to them, how podcasting helps them connect with others, and why storytelling through film feels like a natural form of self-expression.
Closing out our Self-Expression mini-series, this episode highlights how shared interests can build community and spark conversation.

Episode 12: Passion in Focus Mini-Series - John: Finding Rhythm in the Kitchen

John, a line cook with a passion for food, joins our hosts to talk about cooking as a form of self-expression. He shares how he got started in the kitchen, what he loves about the rhythm and structure of cooking, and how preparing meals for others can be both creative and rewarding.
This episode explores how everyday skills, like cooking, can become powerful ways to express identity, focus energy, and build confidence.

Episode 11: Passion in Focus Mini-Series - Penny: Creativity Stitched with Care

In this episode, Penny shares her love for drawing, sewing, and hands-on creativity. She talks about how making art and crafts helps her relax, express herself, and create things that feel meaningful and personal.
From textures and colors to the joy of finishing a project, Penny reminds us that creativity can be both calming and empowering.

Episode 10: Passion in Focus Mini-Series - Kel: Play, Puzzles, and Self-Expression

In this special mini-series kickoff episode, Isabel talks with co-host Kel about puzzles, board games, and the important role special interests play in autistic identity and self-expression. Together, they explore how interests can bring comfort, focus, joy, and connection and talk about why celebrating them matters.
This conversation sets the stage for our April series by highlighting how self-expression can take many forms, from creative hobbies to deep curiosity and play.

Episode 9: More Than a Roof - An Autistic Perspective on Home and Belonging

What does it really mean to feel at home?
In this episode of Autism Unmasked, an autistic self-advocate shares their experience living in a group home and how it shaped their understanding of independence, routine, and belonging. We explore the realities of shared living environments and how housing needs and goals can change over time.
Have a question you want us to answer? Connect with us through our contact form here: https://paautism.org/contact/ 
For more resources related to housing and assistance programs, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.
 
Housing Quick Reference Guide: Find housing programs, rental assistance, and local housing contacts across Pennsylvania
Financial Assistance with Housing: Learn about programs that can help with rent, mortgages, and emergency housing needs
Autism Housing Network: Explore housing options, planning tools, and community-driven ideas for autistic adults
Home Safety for People with Disabilities: Tips and strategies for creating safer, more accessible living environments

Episode 8: Emergency Visits - Supporting Autistic Patients & Their Caregivers

Emergency medical visits can feel overwhelming, especially for autistic individuals and their families. In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we talk with emergency physician Dr. Arvind Venkat about navigating emergency care, communication strategies in fast-paced medical settings, and preparing ahead of time. We also share advocacy tips and resources to help make emergency experiences more supportive and predictable.
Have a question you want us to answer? Connect with us through our contact form here: https://paautism.org/contact/ 
For more resources related to medical visits and emergency care, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.
Medical Social Story Collection
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder: For Emergency Personnel
Emergency Responder Notification Forms
The Importance of Completing a Premise History Form

Episode 7: Permission to Try: Taking the Stage This New Year

The start of a new year often comes with pressure to change or reinvent ourselves, but what if January could be about curiosity instead of expectations?
In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we’re joined by two guests from All In Theatre, an all-inclusive theatre company creating accessible, welcoming spaces for people of all abilities. We talk with the founder of All In Theatre and a stage manager who is neurodivergent and a wheelchair user about what it really means to try something new without pressure.
Together, we explore how creativity and theatre can support self-expression, confidence, self-regulation, and a sense of belonging, especially for autistic and disabled individuals. This conversation centers on the idea that everyone deserves the permission to try at their own pace.
For more resources on trying new activities, supporting new skills and more visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.
 
Teaching New Skills
Community Involvement
Finding Activities in Your Community
 

Episode 6: Community, Care, and Connection - Conversations on Mental Health

Join us this month as we dive into mental health challenges and autistic burnout and how community and connection can help individuals struggling with these challenges. We talk with 'She'EO of Spectrum Success 911, Michele Abraham-Montgomery and her son who is a Community Autistic Peer Specialist for the Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services about their personal and professional experiences with mental health and burnout.
For more resources on mental health and autistic burnout, visit our website at paautism.org or check out some of our resources listed below.
Mental Health Resource Collection
Be Well, Think Well Resources
Processing Emotions and Relaxation Techniques

Episode 5: Unpacking Food and Fear - ARFID and The Autistic Experience

Content Warning: This episode of our podcast and posts related to it focus on eating disorders and restrictive eating.
In this episode, Unpacking Food and Fear: ARFID and the Autistic Experience, we talk with therapist Brittany Ashmore about ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), misconceptions around eating sensitivities, understanding why ARFID may occur and much more.
If you are looking for more resources on food sensitivities and eating disorders, check out the links below or go to our website at paautism.org to view hundreds of resources on a variety of topics.
Going to a Restaurant Social Story
Tips for Food Selectivity
ASSIST: Autism Sensory Strategies, Information, and Toolkit