Tara McMullin, creator of What Works and the co-founder of YellowHouse.Media, shares her journey of receiving an autism diagnosis at 38 and its profound impact on her relationships. She explores the concept of 'biographical illumination,' revealing how understanding her diagnosis has brought clarity and validation to her life. Tara also discusses the intricate dynamics of 'masking' and emotional communication in relationships.  Together, we explore the importance of recognizing and respecting personal boundaries, advocating for mutual understanding, and navigating the complexities of being autistic. Featured topics: How being diagnosed with Autism at 38, transformed Tara’s perspective on work, relationships, and parenting (3:20) The impact of autism on relationships, including getting your social needs met, learning to compromise, and the journey to understanding (10:49) Highlighting the burden on neurodivergent individuals to conform and mask their true selves to meet societal expectations (14:44) The distinction between being autistic and being an asshole—two entirely different concepts (32:35) Debunking the myth that people with autism lack empathy; their empathy is just expressed differently (33:17) Learn more about Tara McMullin: Tara McMullin is a writer and critic who studies the future of work through the lens of philosophy, critical theory, and media. She's the creator of What Works and the co-founder of YellowHouse.Media, a boutique production agency. She believes that care, curiosity, and context create an environment where we can not only learn but experience new and sometimes challenging ideas with grace. She's coached, taught, and facilitated for over 15 years—including more than a dozen classes with CreativeLive. Tara brings her own experience as an autistic feminist, endurance athlete, and amateur baker to everything she does. Resources & Links: Private Coaching with Kate Phoenix Rising: A Divorce Empowerment Collective Tara’s website Tara on Instagram Tara on LinkedIn “I'm a normal autistic person, not an abnormal neurotypical”: Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis as biographical illumination Catherine D. Tan The Electricity of Every Living Thing, Katherine May Episode Link: https://kateanthony.com/podcast/episode-286-autism-and-relationships-with-tara-mcmullin-neurodivergence-in-relationships/ =================== DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY, COACH, OR THERAPIST IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN ADVICE WITH RESPECT TO ANY PARTICULAR ISSUE OR PROBLEM. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices