In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we sit down with Kate and Ryan Hooven, who provide autism-focused trainings to justice professionals across Pennsylvania. Together, we unpack what happens when autistic individuals interact with law enforcement and explore ways to better prepare, advocate, and stay informed.

This conversation covers:

• What autistic individuals and supporters should know before interacting with law enforcement
• Common barriers and misunderstandings within the justice system
• Practical strategies for self-advocacy and communication
• How trainings like theirs are working to create more informed, supportive systems

Additional Resources:

Justice Resource Collection

Justice Resources Map

Request A Justice Training

Reed and Michael talk about their shared love of cinema and the podcast they created together to explore films in depth. They discuss what makes movies meaningful to them, how podcasting helps them connect with others, and why storytelling through film feels like a natural form of self-expression.

Closing out our Self-Expression mini-series, this episode highlights how shared interests can build community and spark conversation.

John, a line cook with a passion for food, joins our hosts to talk about cooking as a form of self-expression. He shares how he got started in the kitchen, what he loves about the rhythm and structure of cooking, and how preparing meals for others can be both creative and rewarding.

This episode explores how everyday skills, like cooking, can become powerful ways to express identity, focus energy, and build confidence.