Adult Autism: My Autistic World

About Adult Autism: My Autistic World

Welcome to "Adult Autism: My Autistic World," a podcast exploring autism discovered in adulthood. Matt, diagnosed at 42, shares personal experiences and challenges faced by late-diagnosed autistic individuals. Inspired by Melissa Tacia’s "Oh, that's just my autism," Matt discusses masking, burnout, job struggles, relationships and self-acceptance. Join Matt for an honest, insightful look into living as an autistic adult. Subscribe to "Adult Autism: My Autistic World" for an enlightening journey of self-discovery and understanding. https://linktr.ee/myautisticworld

Publisher

Matt Kandik

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Jul 2024

Latest episode

4 Jun 2025

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   4 Jun 2025

   Cater. Challenge. Repeat.

   Matt, a late-diagnosed autistic adult, explores the complexities of self-growth and avoiding burnout by balancing self-care with challenging oneself, offering insights for listeners to compassionately calibrate their limits in this episode.

2. 

   25 Apr 2025

   #ActuallyAutistic: Beyond Awareness

   In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Matt explores the gap between performative autism awareness and the lived experiences of autistic adults. With April bringing the usual wave of blue lights and puzzle pieces, this episode is a clear-eyed call to go deeper- to move beyond slogans and into real understanding, action, and inclusion. Through honest storytelling, Matt reflects on the impact of late diagnosis, the cost of lifelong masking, and the grief and relief that come with finally being seen. He unpacks the history of public autism narratives, the invisibility of autistic adults in awareness campaigns, and the importance of centering actually autistic voices in conversations about autism. Whether you're autistic, love someone who is, or are just beginning to learn, this episode invites you to question assumptions, expand your perspective, and rethink what true allyship looks like. It's not about being perfectly informed. It's about being open. Curious. Empathetic. Supportive. Take a listen- and consider what it means to really see someone.

3. 

   21 Mar 2025

   Accommodations: Making Life Work

   What if the difference between struggling and thriving wasn’t about working harder—but working smarter? In this episode, we’re breaking down what accommodations really are and why they matter for everyone—not just those with official diagnoses. I’ll share what I’ve learned about self-advocacy, the surprising ways accommodations have reshaped my work and home life, and why balance—not just ease—matters when making things more accessible. Plus, we’ll dive into the myths, misunderstandings, and pushback that often come with asking for what you need. If you’ve ever felt like you’re pushing through life on hard mode, this episode might just change the way you think about making things possible. 🔗 Resources & Mentions: 🎵 Hyperveridical - Actually Autistic (Intro/Outro Music) (https://open.spotify.com/track/2oUGucnKlmVf83V70R3Ocd?si=YltzvlYHRr-Hx1cmY6WeAA) 📌 Additional Resources on Self-Advocacy & Accommodations (https://askjan.org) 🔗 Connect with me (https://linktr.ee/myautisticworld) Hit play, and let’s talk about making life work—for all of us.

4. 

   28 Dec 2024

   S1 FINALE: My Autistic Holiday Special

   This Holiday Special and Season 1 Finale aims to take everything that we covered this season and stitch it together into one cohesive big picture with some new insight and juxtaposition of these themes. Resources mentioned in the episode: Embrace Autism (https://embrace-autism.com) Help and Healing Center (https://helpandhealingcenter.com) Melissa Tacia (https://open.spotify.com/show/4RDyBTLKsbzD5eyk6cLDvX?si=2c54621046ae49a3) Trevor Carroll (https://www.instagram.com/trevorcarroll) Sol Smith (https://www.tiktok.com/@better_sol) Morgan Foley (https://www.tiktok.com/@morgaanfoley) Hyperveridical (https://open.spotify.com/track/2oUGucnKImVf83V70R3Ocd?si=cea842c000854724) Michelle and Andrew Preston (https://www.instagram.com/michelleandrewpreston/) Toren and Serenity Wolf (https://www.tiktok.com/@toren_wolf) Generic Art Dad (https://www.tiktok.com/@genericartdad?lang=en) I need your help... Did you know that more than 70% of autistic adults remain undiagnosed- including as much as 80% of autistic women, and 90% of autistic adults over 50- navigating a world that was never designed for their needs? As someone who lived this reality for over four decades, I know the pain, the confusion, and the loneliness all too well. But here’s the truth: understanding and connection can change everything. This past year, My Autistic World has become more than just a podcast—it’s a lifeline. It’s a space where late-diagnosed autistic adults like me can feel seen, heard, and validated. Together, we’ve built a community that thrives on vulnerability, truth, and advocacy. And now, we’re on the brink of something even bigger. Season 2 is about amplifying more voices, sharing authentic stories of late diagnosis, and advocating for change in a world that often overlooks us. But I can’t do this alone. Here’s where you come in: Your donation will directly fund: Transcripts and accessibility tools so our content reaches everyone who needs it. Production costs for high-quality episodes that resonate deeply. Outreach efforts to connect with more late-diagnosed autistic adults and their loved ones. The urgency is real: to meet the demand and expand our reach, we need to raise at least $5,000 by February 14th- Valentine's Day- 2025. Every dollar you give brings us closer to creating a world where late-diagnosed autistic adults no longer feel invisible. Take action now: Go to linktr.ee/myautisticworld (https://linktr.ee/myautisticworld) to donate now. And share that link and this episode with your network—it costs nothing but makes a world of difference. I’ll leave you with this: When I first spoke into the void, I never imagined people would care. But your support has shown me that they do. You’ve already helped create a space where we can unmask, grow, and heal. Let’s take it further—together.

5. 

   7 Nov 2024

   S1:E10 My Special Intersts

   In this episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt dives into the fascinating world of special interests- those unique and intense passions that bring so much joy and purpose to many autistic and neurodivergent individuals. He shares some of the special interests that have shaped his life, from ancient civilizations to cults, and his obsession with Tori Amos. He also shares his latest and dominant special interest- neurodivergence, which has consumed his focus for the past two years. Matt also discusses the struggle of suppressing and hiding special interests for years, feeling pressure to “leave childish things behind,” and the trauma of misdiagnosis and mapping special interests to signs of mania. He reflects on how this suppression and shaming made him feel diminished joy and connection to self. Rediscovering special interests has been a journey of self-acceptance and authenticity for him. He also highlights the importance of special interests, explaining how these passions provide a sense of purpose, a means of self-expression, and a pathway to mental and emotional well-being. (https://linktr.ee/myautisticworld) BuyMeACoffee.com/MattKandik (https://buymeacoffee.com/mattkandik)

6. 

   14 Oct 2024

   S1:E9 Overcoming Employment Struggles and Series Update

   In this episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt takes a reflective journey through their employment history, shedding light on how undiagnosed autism impacted his career. Despite often being recognized as a strong employee, he frequently experienced burnout, often leaving jobs due to feelings of overwhelm or becoming stuck in issues related to a strong sense of justice. He also discusses how autism contributed to difficulties in managing basic self-care, finances, relationships, and other aspects of life outside of work. Taking classes to become a life coach improved not only his professional abilities but also his home life. Systemization became a key strength, allowing him to excel at work by seeing the path from point A to point B more clearly. These newfound skills also helped him manage his personal life more effectively, leading to better self-care. He touches on the topic of employment disclosure and the process of seeking disability accomodations, highlighting the power of understanding and advocating for one's own needs. At the end of this episode, Matt discusses his plans for his future and the future of the podcast, including a second season focused on hearing other autistic people's experiences. Please consider supporting the podcast by donating as much or as little as you can afford at: https://buymeacoffee.com/mattkandik (https://buymeacoffee.com/mattkandik)

7. 

   9 Oct 2024

   S1:E8 Sensory Overload and Sensory Joy: My Autistic Sensory Differences

   In this episode of Adult Autism:My Autistic World, Matt takes a deep dive into the world of sensory differences experienced by autistic individuals. With a focus on the eight sensory systems—visual, auditory, tactile, olfactory, gustatory, vestibular, proprioceptive, and interoceptive—he explores the complex relationship between sensory overload and sensory-seeking behaviors, known as "stimming." This episode is perfect for those looking to better understand the intricacies of sensory processing in autism and learn about practical coping strategies. ADULT AUTISM:MY AUTISTIC WORLD NEEDS YOUR HELP... ...to fulfill the mission of spreading awareness and representation for autistic adults. If all that you can do is comment or share the podcast, please do that! Far and wide! But if you can afford to give $5, go to https://buymeacoffee.com/mattkandik (https://buymeacoffee.com/mattkandik) , and please donate what you can. With your support, we can do great things with this platform!

8. 

   30 Sept 2024

   S1:E7 Misdiagnosed: Why Autism Often Gets Overlooked in Adults

   In this episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt tackles the issue of misdiagnosis among undiagnosed autistic individuals, sharing personal experiences and shedding light on why autism can go unrecognized until later in life. This episode is particularly insightful for those navigating their own diagnostic journeys or supporting loved ones who may be experiencing similar struggles. Matt opens up about the frustration of receiving multiple mental health diagnoses over the years, none of which fully explained the root cause of their challenges. From bipolar disorder to major depressive disorder (MDD) to severe anxiety and disordered eating, these labels seemed accurate on the surface but always felt "just off the mark." This is a common experience among autistic adults who were diagnosed later in life, leaving many stuck in a cycle of ineffective therapies and lingering confusion. For many adults diagnosed with autism, the path often begins with a series of misdiagnoses. Diagnostic criteria for autism has been updated over time but misinformation has remained a systemic issue in medical and mental health professions. This lack of awareness and outdated practices have left many autistic adults searching for answers. Misdiagnoses of depression, anxiety, or even bipolar disorder are common, and while these conditions may share some overlapping symptoms, they fail to capture the core traits of autism. The emotional impact of living undiagnosed can be profound, leading to trauma and C-PTSD from a lifetime of being misunderstood, labeled as lazy or difficult, and deprived of the accommodations they needed to thrive.

9. 

   17 Sept 2024

   S1:E6 My Burnout Recovery

   In this episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt dives deeper into the nuances of burnout, comparing traditional occupational burnout with Autistic Burnout and Autistic Burnout Syndrome. After receiving questions from listeners following the previous burnout episode, the host provides a more detailed exploration of how autism affects burnout and the additional challenges of being undiagnosed. He begins by breaking down the similarities and differences between traditional burnout, Autistic Burnout, and Autistic Burnout Syndrome. He highlights how all three types of burnout share common traits, such as fatigue and brain fog, but also discuss the unique challenges posed by each. Additionally, the host shares personal struggles with multiple underlying conditions—like vitamin deficiencies, low testosterone, and sleep apnea—that exacerbate the fatigue and brain fog. He delves into the neurological differences in autistic individuals that contribute to burnout and also explores the long-term effects of undiagnosed autism, such as the development of C-PTSD from the pressures of living in a world designed for allistic (non-autistic) people. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the different forms of burnout, with a focus on autism. It’s a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand how neurodivergent individuals experience stress and fatigue, as well as those looking for strategies to manage burnout and embrace a more authentic life.

10. 

    4 Sept 2024

    S1:E5 Politics, Pros & Cons of Self-Diagnosis

    In this episode of Adult Autism:My Autistic World, Matt delves into the complex topic of self-diagnosis in autism, exploring its benefits, challenges, and the broader conversations happening within the neurodivergent community. He shares personal experiences and insights, aiming to provide a balanced perspective on this often-debated subject. He addresses the controversy surrounding self-diagnosis, noting that some people view it skeptically or even take offense to it while acknowledging the importance of self-diagnosis as a tool for many in the neurodiverse community, highlighting voices that advocate for its benefits and the potential it has to improve lives. As he explores the pros and cons, he underscores that self-diagnosis can be a valuable and necessary step for many, particularly those who face barriers to accessing an official diagnosis. While it may not be the final step for everyone, self-diagnosis offers access to terminology, community, and resources that can significantly improve lives.

11. 

    27 Aug 2024

    S1:E4 - My Autistic Burnout

    In this insightful episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt takes listeners on a journey to understand the often-overlooked phenomenon of Autistic Burnout. The episode delves into the deep exhaustion and stress that go beyond typical burnout, shedding light on how it uniquely affects individuals on the autism spectrum. He introduces the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and touches on Polyvagal Theory and its role in burnout. Drawing from personal experiences, Matt vividly describes how this current bout of burnout began and how it has impacted his life, offering relatable examples that resonate with many adults diagnosed later in life. This segment helps listeners recognize the symptoms and understand the pervasive nature of this condition. Matt then dives deeper into the causes and triggers of Autistic Burnout, highlighting the significant role of the "Window of Tolerance" and the exhausting effects of masking and people-pleasing tendencies. He shares practical insights from his own life, including the challenges of navigating social expectations and the constant need to manage sensory overload, serving as both a reflection on his coping mechanisms and a guide for others struggling with similar issues. This episode offers a hopeful perspective on managing and healing from burnout as Matt discusses how receiving an autism diagnosis has led to a greater understanding of his needs and strengths. This episode is packed with practical advice drawn from personal experience emphasizing the importance of recalibrating one’s lifestyle to support and celebrate autism rather than setting up for future burnout. This episode is essential listening for anyone on the autism spectrum, particularly those seeking to understand and overcome the challenges of Autistic Burnout Syndrome. It's a blend of personal reflection, educational content, and practical advice, making it a valuable resource for both those affected and their loved ones.

12. 

    14 Aug 2024

    S1:E3 Communication Differences

    In this episode of Adult Autism: My Autistic World, Matt dives deep into the communication challenges and differences experienced as an individual on the autism spectrum. He reflects on his assessment profile, which clearly identified autism, and shares personal stories about the profound impact these differences have had on his life, both personally and professionally. This episode sheds light on how delayed processing can affect communication, leading to misunderstandings and frustrations, particularly in environments with sensory overload. Matt discusses the challenges of being direct and honest, which can often be misinterpreted by others, leading to feelings of isolation and trauma. He also explores how sarcasm and nonverbal cues can be confusing, and how these nuances can make social interactions even more complex. He shares his strategies for coping, and touches on the emotional toll of masking and the journey toward self-acceptance and unmasking, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and the ongoing process of living a more authentic life. This episode is a candid and heartfelt exploration of what it means to navigate the world with communication differences, offering valuable insights for both those on the autism spectrum and those looking to understand these experiences better. Whether you're looking for personal connection, practical advice, or just a deeper understanding of autism, this episode provides a compelling and informative listen.

13. 

    31 Jul 2024

    S1:E2 - I ❤️ My Library!

    In this short episode, Matt dives into the significance of safe spaces for unmasking and managing sensory challenges, a crucial aspect of living authentically with autism. Fresh off receiving his diagnosis, Matt reflects on the impact of living undiagnosed for so long and the relief of finally understanding his needs. Matt discusses how safe spaces, like libraries, have been a sanctuary for him. As a child, he naturally gravitated towards these environments, finding solace in their quiet and organized nature. The library was a place where Matt could escape sensory overload, unmask, and fully immerse himself in learning—an activity that always brought him joy. He fondly recalls volunteering there as a teenager and the sense of comfort it provided, likening the library to a place where he could "exhale and be comfortable." The episode also explores the concept of the "window of tolerance," a term describing the balance between hyperarousal and hypoarousal states. Matt explains how safe spaces and tools like noise-canceling earbuds can help widen this window, allowing him to manage stress better and become more resilient. He describes the transformative effect of these tools, which help him transition from a state of panic and overload to a calmer, more focused state, especially in challenging environments.

14. 

    27 Jul 2024

    S1:E1- My Path to Diagnosis

    In this episode, Matt shares the rollercoaster of emotions leading up to the moment of receiving an official autism diagnosis, from initial realizations triggered by TikTok content to the eventual decision to seek a professional assessment.Matt recounts the profound identity crisis he faced upon suspecting he was autistic. He describes the emotional turmoil and anger he felt towards the lack of recognition of his condition during his childhood. As Matt delved deeper, he realized many of his life challenges—such as difficulties at work and intense reactions to sensory stimuli—aligned with autism. Through extensive research, including taking numerous online autism tests, and discussing these findings with his therapist, Matt moved towards self-diagnosis. Despite finding peace with his self-diagnosis, Matt’s husband urged him to seek an official diagnosis, concerned about the validity of his self-diagnosis. This push prompted Matt to schedule an assessment with a specialist who focused on adult autism diagnoses.

15. 

    22 Jul 2024

    Introduction

    In this introduction to the podcast series, "Adult Autism: My Autistic World", Matt Kandik, 42, introduces his podcast and shares the personal reasons behind its creation. The podcast serves as a platform to navigate his recent autism diagnosis and invites listeners to join him on this journey. He describes his own experience with masking and burnout, exacerbated by COVID-19 and the demanding nature of his job. This burnout led to difficulties in cognitive functions and emotional regulation which raised questions which ultimately led to his autism diagnosis. Inspired by Melissa Tacia’s podcast, "Oh, that's just my autism," Matt finds purpose in representation for late diagnosed autistic people. Listeners are invited to join Matt as he embarks on this journey, exploring the nuances of his life with autism and how his evolving self-view.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

1.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 35 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

71

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

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