When Jim Irion finally pieced together the puzzle of his life after an autism diagnosis at 37, it was akin to finding a missing key to a lock long-closed.  Our latest episode offers an intimate glimpse into Jim's powerful narrative, highlighting the profound influence a late diagnosis can have on understanding oneself and redefining one’s life path.  We journey alongside him as he traverses the realities of adult autism, from the daily nuances like tying shoes to the larger life decisions that shape our existence.  His voice serves as a beacon for others who may be grappling with similar challenges, and his candidness about the mental health battles he's faced is both sobering and deeply impactful. Through the lens of Jim's experiences, we tackle the complexities that autism weaves into the fabric of daily life.  He lends us his insights on the delicate balance of expressing oneself while managing the intricacies of neurodiversity.  Our conversation ventures into the nuances of meltdowns versus tantrums, the weight of career uncertainty, and the importance of recognizing and embracing one's autistic traits.  Jim's story isn't just about the hardships; it's a resonating message that clarity and empowerment can emerge from the most tangled of situations. The episode culminates with an empowering discussion on perseverance and the importance of building a resilient support network.  Jim's reflections on suicide and the coping strategies he has developed offer a lifeline of hope and solidarity to listeners.  Together with the autistic community and their allies, we underscore the shared commitment to understanding, advocacy, and the unwavering 'Why Not Me' spirit.  Join us for this heartfelt conversation that promises to enlighten, inspire, and remind you that you're not walking this path alone. https://tonymantor.com https://Facebook.com/tonymantor https://instagram.com/tonymantor https://twitter.com/tonymantor https://youtube.com/tonymantormusic intro/outro music bed written by T. Wild Why Not Me the World music published by Mantor Music (BMI)