Episode #43 Unmasking the Self: Internalised Ableism, Diagnosis, and Embracing Autism with Annie Kotowicz

In this candid and deeply affirming conversation, we explore the layered experience of internalised ableism and the lifelong journey toward self-acceptance as Autistic individuals. Through personal reflections, shared insights, and the powerful inclusion of an audiobook excerpt by guest author Annie Kotowicz, we unpack how diagnosis, identity, boundaries, and belonging evolve over time. Caitlin and Teena show up with honesty, compassion, and vulnerability—offering a grounded perspective on what it means to live authentically as late-diagnosed Autistic person.

Annie Kotowicz is an autistic author on a mission to:

• Describe the beautiful view from her brain,

• Help other autistics see the beauty of their own brains, and

• Show why neurodiversity is a beautiful thing.

She studied Art and English at Trinity Western University, which led to various jobs in graphic design, editing, and website development. After an autism diagnosis in 2017, she created the blog Neurobeautiful to process her ongoing discoveries about autism and neurodiversity. Since then, she has become a Chief Technology Officer, Special Education Teacher, and member of Mensa. What I Mean When I Say I’m Autistic is her first book. She has also written articles and poetry for Edutopia, NeuroClastic, and Spaces Literary Journal. Annie is happiest when writing, dancing, practicing parkour, drawing Celtic knots, or organizing her cozy and colorful home near Washington, D.C.

Website: https://neurobeautiful.com/book

Email: mybrainisbeautiful@gmail.com

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

Cathartic Collaborations - https://www.catharticcollaborations.com.au

Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

Balance Centre for Mental Health - https://www.balancecentreformentalhealth.com.au.

Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth

Ready to enhance your listening experience and make the most of each episode? Become a paid subscriber and gain access to our specially tailored Episode Guides: https://divergentdialogues.substack.com/

What’s inside?

Clear, Concise Summaries: Easily revisit episode highlights to ensure you’ve got the essentials covered, all presented in a straightforward, digestible format.

Reflective Questions: Explore thought-provoking prompts that honour diverse thinking styles. Whether you prefer quiet contemplation or lively discussion, these questions invite you to delve deeper at your own pace.

Supportive Activities: Discover exercises and gentle strategies designed to foster learning, personal growth, and emotional wellbeing. Build on your unique strengths and nurture a sense of self-understanding.

By joining our community of paid subscribers, you’ll unlock practical tools to help you on your journey to understanding and embracing your neurodivergence.