In this episode of Autistic FM, we sit down with Micky, an AI engineer from Australia and the creator of the NeuroTranslator app. Michael’s journey into understanding and embracing his autism began after his daughter’s diagnosis, sparking a profound exploration of his own neurodivergence. His experiences have fueled the creation of a tool that bridges the gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical communication, offering a new way to understand and connect.

Michael shares candid insights into the process of unmasking and the impact of late diagnosis on personal and professional realms. His story is a tapestry of discovering authenticity amidst the challenges of skill regression and misunderstandings. The development of the NeuroTranslator app stands as a testament to his commitment to easing communication barriers and fostering empathy.

As we delve into Michael’s transformation, he discusses the trials and triumphs of navigating relationships and career changes. The conversation highlights the importance of self-compassion and support systems in overcoming the initial turmoil of a new neurodivergent identity. Michael’s journey underscores the power of technology in creating inclusive spaces for those navigating similar paths.

Topics covered in Episode 28

• Discovering Neurodivergence: Michael’s awakening to his autistic identity after his daughter’s diagnosis and the transformative impact it had on his life.

• NeuroTranslator App: The creation and development of an app designed to enhance communication between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.

• Navigating Change: Insights into the personal challenges of unmasking, including skill regression and relationship dynamics.

About Micky

Micky is an AI engineer, as well as the creator of NeuroTranslator, an AI-powered mobile app designed to bridge the communication gap between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. As an autistic person in a neurodiverse marriage, Micky deeply understands the communication differences that exist between different neurotypes and built NeuroTranslator to help others navigate these complexities with greater ease.

His work has gained significant attention, with NeuroTranslator going viral on various social media platforms and soon to be featured in publications such as The Washington Post. Micky is passionate about making neurodivergent communication more accessible, ensuring that the tools he builds are both effective and financially accessible.

Beyond technology, Micky is a parent to neurodivergent children, bringing personal experience to his work. He is dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and families improve their understanding of each other through AI-driven support.

TikTok: @mickydaniel

You can find the NeuroTranslater app on iOS and Google Play

Content warnings

Please note that this episode includes discussions of autism-related challenges, relationship misunderstandings, and emotional distress. Please take care of yourself and listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, I’m joined by Makay Davis, an inspiring educator specializing in special education and functional life skills. Makay shares her profound insights into the world of neurodiversity, stemming from her personal journey of discovering ADHD and autism within herself. Her mission is to create educational spaces that embrace autonomy and empower neurodivergent individuals to navigate life confidently.

Throughout our engaging conversation, Makay discusses how her life experiences, including growing up alongside a neurodivergent cousin, have shaped her teaching approach. She emphasizes the importance of balancing structure and choice to foster environments where neurodiverse individuals can thrive without feeling constrained by rigid expectations. Makay’s approach focuses on cultivating functional life skills that resonate with students, allowing them to express themselves authentically.

Listeners can look forward to an in-depth exploration of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), the significance of autonomy in education, and how neurodiversity should be celebrated rather than stigmatized. Makay sheds light on strategies that enable neurodivergent individuals to harness their strengths and lead fulfilling lives.

Topics covered in Episode 27

• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): Understanding PDA and how rethinking autonomy impacts neurodivergent individuals in educational settings.

• Functional Life Skills Education: Makay's approach to teaching life skills that emphasize choice, autonomy, and empowerment for neurodiverse learners.

• Embracing Neurodiversity: The journey of recognizing and validating one’s unique neurodivergent identity and fostering inclusivity within communities.

About Makay Davis

Makay Davis is an educator with over a decade of experience in special education. Based in Sausalito, she runs a personalized teaching practice dedicated to helping neurodivergent individuals develop functional life skills and autonomy.

Her empathetic and innovative approach is informed by her own experiences with ADHD and autism, as well as a life spent growing up in different countries and supporting neurodivergent family members. This unique combination of lived experience and professional expertise—including a background in Special Education, Speech-Language Pathology, and specialized training in Pathological Demand Avoidance—has led to The Makay Method, an immersive model that prioritizes real-world learning experiences and celebrates every child’s unique strengths.

Content warnings

Please note that this episode includes discussions of childhood trauma, experiences of bullying, and mental health challenges including ADHD and autism spectrum. Please take care of yourself and listen with care.

In this episode of Autistic FM, we're joined by Janneke Parrish, a formidable advocate and activist within the tech industry. Known for her courage in standing up for workers' rights, Janneke shares her journey navigating life with autism, PTSD, and agoraphobia. She opens up about how becoming an outspoken advocate against workplace discrimination at her former employer, Apple, led to significant personal and professional challenges.

Janneke delves into the intersection of activism and autism, exploring her innate sense of justice and how it drives her to fight against systemic injustices. During the conversation, she discusses organizing labor movements and the hurdles faced when challenging powerful corporate structures. Janneke's story offers insights into the resilience required to take a stand and the toll such bravery extracts.

We also explore her ongoing efforts in law and literature aimed at supporting those who face similar battles. Janneke continues to be a powerful voice for change, navigating personal setbacks while advocating for the rights and dignity of workers everywhere.

Topics covered in Episode 26

• Neurodivergence and Justice: How Janneke's autism and strong sense of justice intersect to inspire her activism and drive for change.

• Workplace Discrimination: Discussing Janneke's experiences at Apple and the systemic issues she fought against, including discrimination and harassment.

• Building a Movement: The genesis of the Apple II movement and its impact on labor rights within the tech industry and beyond.

About Janneke Parrish

Janneke Parrish is a labour activist and tech organiser, known for her work in the #AppleToo movement. Her work has been instrumental in reshaping conversations around workers' rights within Silicon Valley and beyond. She is the author of “The Tech Worker's Guide to Unions."

You can find Janneke at JannekeParrish.com and on BlueSky.

Content Warnings

This episode contains discussions on mental health struggles, workplace discrimination, and experiences of harassment and assault. Please take care and listen with caution.