Autism Unmasked

For Emma, college was already a time of new experiences, challenges, and independence, but during freshman year, she also received an autism diagnosis that changed the way she understood herself and her experiences.
In this episode of Autism Unmasked, Emma shares her personal journey through college before and after her diagnosis. She talks about navigating academics, social experiences, self-advocacy, and the process of learning what support she needed as she adjusted to a new understanding of herself.
Join us for an honest conversation about discovering autism in college, finding the right support, and navigating this important transition as you learn more about who you are.
Prefer video? Watch this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/pS9smxzxKBw 
Related Resources:
College Information for Individuals with Autism
10 Tips for Staying Organized In College
Secondary Transition: What Educators Need to Know

What does it mean to choose positivity, even when life gets difficult?
In this episode of Autism Unmasked, Ben and Sandy Hartranft join us to talk about the power of positivity, perseverance, and connection. They share their family’s journey, the impact Ben has made through his advocacy, and how “Benergy” continues to bring encouragement and joy to others.
 
Related Resources:
Benergy1 Presentations
Stand Up Against Stressors - Wellness Tools That Really Work
Public Comment - The Process

Buying a home can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming, especially when the process wasn't designed with neurodivergent people in mind.
In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we talk with Danielle Winn, a neurodivergent-friendly realtor and founder of Realtors for Neurodivergents, about making the homebuying journey more accessible and personalized. Danielle shares practical tips for navigating the housing market, communicating your needs, and finding a home that works for you.
Prefer video? Watch this episode on our YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PjdRzcfTgU 
Resources:
ASERT Housing Resource CollectionRealtors for Neurodivergents

What is psych rehab, really?
We sat down with Heather Conroy from Evolve Coaching to talk about psychiatric rehabilitation and how it can support autistic individuals in practical, real-life ways. From building independence and navigating overwhelm to figuring out what support actually works, this conversation breaks down a topic that often feels confusing or overly clinical.
We also explore the connection between mental health, autonomy, and support during Mental Health Awareness Month and why needing help doesn’t make someone less independent.
For additional mental health resources, visit our Mental Health Resource Collection: https://paautism.org/resource/mental-health/ 
Prefer video? Autism Unmasked is now on YouTube! Watch the full episode now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evsk0MwKWBQ 

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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