In Episode 5 of Autistic FM, we talk to Vance, a 19-year-old autistic, gay, trans man who’s navigating life in Brighton, England, while studying Psychology and Criminology. Vance shares his journey of self-discovery—from realizing he was neurodivergent after a thoughtless comment during an online gaming session to embracing his trans identity in the midst of pandemic-era introspection.

We dive into the intersection of neurodivergence and identity, unpacking themes like masking, dysphoria, and the challenges of navigating relationships as a neurodivergent queer person. Vance shares the power of finding community in a house full of neurodivergent individuals, the joy of feeling seen and understood, and the necessity of safe, inclusive spaces.

Topics included in this episode

• The unexpected moment that sparked Vance’s realization of his neurodivergence

• Why Vance is choosing not to pursue a formal autism diagnosis

• The interplay of neurodivergence and gender identity

• Navigating dysphoria and finding ways to feel more at home in his body

• How masking impacts relationships and daily life

• The role of community in fostering acceptance and connection

• Insights into being perceived accurately in relationships

Note: You may notice some audio inconsistencies in this episode. We’re improving our recording setup to ensure better quality for future interviews—thanks for your patience!

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses dysphoria, masking, and ableism.

Subscribe to Autistic FM wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. If you enjoy the show, consider leaving a review—it helps more people discover our conversations!