The Special Interest

(TW:Talk about substances + suicide) In episode fifty-nine, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Vas. From Vas: I am from Stockton CA. I graduated from UC Berkeley in 2020. I had a couple-year long career in case management, harm reduction, therapy, and social work, which was rewarding but drove me into the ground and didn’t give me the time to properly care for myself. I was suffering from autistic burnout (pre-diagnosis) and the problem was worsened by my frustration with my burnout symptoms impacting my ability to “function like normal”. After taking a few months off to move back home and focus on my health, I was diagnosed (at 25 years old) with Autism. My diagnosis made me kinder on myself and more understanding of my challenges in light of the new diagnosis, and after learning to work with (as opposed to against) my brain I am now looking into doing Harm Reduction work (in direct service and policy) and potentially pursuing a PhD in Public Policy. I still don’t “function like normal”, but who the hell wants ‘normal’ anyway ! In this episode, Vas shares about their experiences with substance use, ways society can provide support and direction in harm reduction. This episode may be triggering to some, but is an important topic to learn about. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Vas: IG @vas.meatsuit Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-eight, Alex and Karly arrive burnt out af. They tirelessly go on about tv shows and the importance of comfort tv while feeling burnt out. They share a listeners story and give shout outs to all their amazing Patreon members! Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Next Monthly Meeting: April 25 @ 7PM EST Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-seven, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Pete Wharmby. Pete was diagnosed with autism at 34 and then went on to writing two books, at the same time! In this episode, Pete shares about his journey as a late diagnosed autistic author, the importance of special interests, and advice for those who have learned they are autistic later in life. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Pete: Twitter - @commaficionado Facebook - Pete Wharmby, Autistic Author Instagram - @petewharmby YouTube - /peterwharmby Books: Un-Typical: How the World isn’t Built For Autistic People and What We Should All Do About It What I Want To Talk AboutReach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-six, Alex and Karly reminisce on emo music, blockbuster, and birthdays. They then go into talking about what this autism month means to them and their journeys. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-five, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Abby Lastowski. Abby is the author and illustrator of the Actually Owltistic web comic series, illustrator of "Slipper the Penguin: A Story About Embracing Neurodivergence", and mother of two daughters. After being diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 28 years old, Abby used her creativity and journey to help others feel more understood and built a community of fellow owls. In this episode, she shares about her journey and the joy that has unfolded from sharing her art. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Abby: IG/ Facebook / Kofi: @actuallyowltistic Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-four, Alex and Karly meet Robert Smythe. Robert Smythe is an award-winning theater artist who learned he was autistic when he was 50 years old. He was 59 when he had his first conversation with another autistic person, and that experience made everything in his life finally click into place. As a result of that revelation, he started and produces A Team, a podcast about the thrills and challenges of living with autism. Now in its 4th season, thousands of people in over 50 countries listen to it weekly. At least one clinical psychologist in New Zealand credits A Team with helping patients overcome depression and suicidal thoughts due to a late in life autism diagnosis. In this episode, Robert talks about growing up without the autistic language and knowledge we now have. He shares his authentic autistic self and the journey that has brought him here. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Robert: IG: @voicesmythe Podcast: A Team Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-three, Alex and Karly meet Greta! Greta is a late-diagnosed autistic, former NYC runway model, former Utah ski instructor, aspiring performer, loves making people laugh, and finding her true path. She shares her story of her experiences growing up and blossoming into the swan she is today. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Greta: IG: @g_du_nord Books mentioned: -The Secret Language of Birthdays -Princess by Jean Sasson Reach out to us- Share your stories, art, or questions! Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-two, Alex and Karly introduce you to Matt Nelson! Matt Nelson is the owner of Nelson Voices LLC, which specializes in voiceover services, including commercials, narration, eLearning, IVR (Interactive Voice Recording), promos and live event announcing. He was diagnosed with autism at the age of 2 and is AuDHD. He's also a diehard NASCAR fan. In this episode, Matt talks about his voice acting experiences and his special interest. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Matt: x- @Mattnel23 / IG- @Matt.Nel23 / email- Matt@nelsonvoices.com Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty-one, Alex and Karly welcome you back into the podverse! They catch you up on what they have been up to and what to expect for season three. They are excited to share more diverse experiences with you, community opportunities and chances to share your story! Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode fifty, Alex and Karly close out season two with so much gratitude. We talk about people pleasing, gaining confidence from connecting with community, and wrap up with some details of what's to come. We'll be back in March! Thank you for listening! Love you all sooooo much. <3 -A+K Reach out to us and join our community- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-nine, Alex and Karly reminisce on past driving memories, talk about the importance of judgment and backstories, and wish you all a warm holiday. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-eight, Alex and Karly get a little silly while reflecting on this year of unmasking and special interests. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-seven, Alex and Karly reflect on their weeks, what productive rest feels like verses disassociation, and what makes them feel the most empowered.  Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Virtual Meetup Sign up: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfb8THw2SUsv_PyLUvSoHXimE68Jxg3zh2gUZ3WAOcLTY_tKQ/viewform?usp=sf_link Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Authenticity Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-six, Alex and Karly share about how they are feeling after the holiday week. They reflect on the process of building self awareness and how exposing yourself to old spaces can be a good time to reflect on how far you've come on your unmasking journey.  Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Join our Patreon: patreon.com/TheSpecialInterestPodcast Discord: https://discord.gg/vn6RGPdqrT Unmasking with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-five, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Olivia! Olivia (She/They) of @olivianiedmusic_official is a queer and trans multi instrumentalist who is in the process of recording her debut solo album! Her experiences of being a late diagnosed autistic/ADHDr and being a trans woman, are explored lyrically throughout her original music, and her single off of her upcoming album, in which she lyrically describes herself as a "kaleidoscopic human being that just wants a seat at your lunch table" is available to stream on her website: www.olivianied.com where you can also find out where she’ll be playing next! Tune in to hear Olivia discuss her experiences with gender identity, neurodivergence and special interests. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Olivia: olivianied.com / @olivianiedmusic_official Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Mentorship with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-four, Alex and Karly celebrate ONE whole year of The Special Interest Podcast!! We are so grateful for the community we have built, the people we have connected with and for the space to share our voices. Thank you so much for being a part of our dream. Stay listening for our surprise new offerings. If you’re tuning in before 11/11, DM us “INTEREST” to gain early access. See you there! Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Neurodivergent Offerings with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-three, Alex and Karly introduce the pod to Alyssa, of Alyssa's Yellow House. Alyssa is a neurodivergent home organization strategist who works with people who have ADHD and autism, as well as others struggling with conventional organization techniques, to take the shame and anxiety out of home organization and build successful systems that work for them so they can stop stressing and truly relax in their space. She knows the story, since she struggled for years with self-blame, stress, and shame around her disorganization. But after being late-diagnosed neurodivergent, she began to think about organization differently and discovered a better way. Now, she wants everyone to know organizing doesn't have to be one-size-fits-all and with the right tools you can create a restful, organized home. Tune in for all of Alyssa's tips, advice for late discovered autistics and her autistic glimmer. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Alyssa: website: https://ayh.alyssasyellowhouse.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssasyellowhouse/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/alyssasyellowhouse Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / rewildtoroot@gmail.com / @rewildtoroot Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-two, Alex and Karly meet with Victoria Ellen. Victoria Ellen is an AuDHD, ND & chronically ill content creator. She is a published author and PhD student. Her authentic content is full of colour and aims to bring happiness and comfort to others. In this episode, she talks about her autism journey, her workbooks created for autistics and shares advice. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Victoria Ellen: @actuallyaspling The Autism Diagnosis Workbook: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BQHR2C9S?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_DQ5JN0KHE0PN45SG7MPJ The Autistic Guide to University: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CCCN5X3D?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_F17DPBTWDSYRX1FMX79M Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty-one, Alex and Karly are joined by guest, Tenacity. Tenacity Plys is a nonbinary writer based in Brooklyn, with publications in Bullshit Lit, Alien Buddha, Word Gathering, and Defunkt. Xe has been nominated for a Pushcart and a Best of the Net. Xir first novella, Family Curse - Field Notebooks (1880 - 2020) is available now from Bottlecap Press. You can find more of xir work at tenacityplys.com! Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Connect with Tenacity: @tenacity_plys Mentions: Liv Lansdale @blurbslut Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late

In episode forty, Alex and Karly have a very free flowing conversation, touching on the topics of unmasking, advocating at the doctor's office and their current hyperfixations. Thank you for listening! <3 -A+K Reach out to us- Email: pod.thespecialinterest@gmail.com IG: @thespecialinterestpod Coaching with Karly: rewildtoroot.com / @rewildtoroot / rewildtoroot@gmail.com Facebook: The Special Interest Podcast Facebook Group: The Special Interest Podcast Fans! Music: Pretty Late