Miscommunication between autistic and non-autistic individuals can lead to painful misunderstandings and strained relationships. In this episode, we talk to Jaime A. Heidel, author of 'What Did I Do Wrong? An Accessible Guide to Preventing Traumatic Misunderstandings Between You and Your Autistic Loved One.' Emily and Jaime discuss the common communication barriers between autistic and non-autistic people, the importance of listening to autistic voices, and the need for effective communication to prevent trauma. They talk about the need for specificity in communication, and the impact of trauma and the importance of validating neurodivergent experiences. Takeaways Miscommunication between autistic and non-autistic individuals can lead to painful misunderstandings and strained relationships. Listening to autistic voices and consuming their content can help improve understanding and foster better connections. Believing autistic individuals and being specific in communication can greatly improve communication and prevent trauma. The impact of trauma on neurodivergent individuals is real, and it’s important to validate their experiences. Register here for our free annual fall event we’ve created specifically for educators who are passionate about creating neurodiversity-affirming learning environments for students. The event will be held on Monday, September 23, and you can sign up to join Emily and a live panel of experts, who will be discussing ways to best support students of all neurotypes. Jaime A. Heidel, The Articulate Autistic, is a late-diagnosed autistic/ADHD woman who uses her social media platforms to explain the autistic experience in terms that their neurotypical loved ones can understand and relate to. BACKGROUND READING The Articulate Autistic What Did I Do Wrong? Jaime on Instagram A Field Guide to Earthlings