In this episode of Neuroqueer Storyweavers, Sherry Johnson and Kelsey Waits talk about late diagnoses of autism and ADHD in people socialized or perceived as female. Using personal stories and research, they explore masking, misdiagnosis, trauma, medical systems, self-advocacy, parenting neurodivergent kids, and what diagnosis can make possible.

The conversation traces how masking, trauma, anxiety, depression, perimenopause, parenting, multiple diagnoses, and medical barriers can complicate diagnosis. It also names what diagnosis can offer: medication access, accommodations, better care, self-compassion, community, language, and a fuller sense of self.

Find other listeners on social media using the hashtag #NQStoryWeavers.

Content Note: This episode includes discussion of mental health, trauma, misdiagnosis, medical systems, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. The episode includes an audio warning before the self-harm section and invites listeners to skip ahead.

Show links:

• NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman
• Autism Society of Minnesota (AUSM)
• Children's Hospital of Minnesota

Connect with us and our collaborators:

• Email: nqstoryweavers@gmail.com
• Instagram @nqstoryweavers
• Hashtag: #NQStoryWeavers
• Cash App $NQSWPod
• calymcmorrow.com
• The Streets.MN podcast

A warm, candid welcome to Minnesota for transgender folks moving to the state, this episode blends practical survival tips with real talk about "Minnesota nice," community-building, and how to clear snow.

Kelsey Waits and Sherry Pofahl Johnson weave personal stories, cultural insight, and a robust web of LGBTQ2S+ resources to help you land somewhere safer, softer, and more connected. Whether you're seeking protection, belonging, or just better boots, this is your playful-but-grounded guide to thriving in what we shall always fight for: a trans- and neuroqueer-friendly state.

Find other listeners on social media using the hashtag #NQStoryWeavers.

Show links:

• 🌈 TIGERS Trans Resource Directory (MN) – A comprehensive, community-built guide to affirming providers, services, and supports across Minnesota: Email us for the link.
• 💬 The Trevor Project (24/7 Hotline & Chat) – Crisis support and resources for LGBTQ+ youth: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
• 👕 Twin Cities Pride – Rainbow Wardrobe – Gender-affirming clothing closet and community resource: https://tcpride.org/programs/rainbow-wardrobe/
• 🛑 OutFront Minnesota – Advocacy, anti-violence programs, and support for LGBTQ+ Minnesotans: https://www.outfront.org/
• 🧠 Reclaim (St. Paul) – Mental health care by and for queer and trans youth: https://www.reclaim.care/
• 🧘 Edges Wellness Center (Minneapolis) – Inclusive mental health services: https://www.edgeswellness.com/
• 🧥 MN DNR "Dress for the Weather" Guide – Because layering is a survival skill: https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/climate/journal/winterclothing.html
• 🧶 Shepherd's Harvest Fiber Festival – Annual spring gathering for fiber artists: https://shepherdsharvestfestival.org/
• 🎲 Level Up Games (Twin Cities) – Queer-friendly tabletop gaming community and events: https://www.levelupgamesmn.com/
• 🎭 Convergence Convention – Community-centered geek and fandom convention: https://www.convergence-con.org/
• 🦄 Twin Cities Pride Festival – Annual celebration of LGBTQ+ community: https://tcpride.org/
• 🏳️‍⚧️ MN Poly (Polyamory Community Resource) – Events and connections for polyamorous folks: https://mnpoly.org/

Connect with us and our collaborators:

• Email: nqstoryweavers@gmail.com
• Instagram @nqstoryweavers
• Hashtag: #NQStoryWeavers
• Cash App $NQSWPod
• calymcmorrow.com
• The Streets.MN podcast

In this kickoff episode, Sherry and Kelsey unpack what "neuroqueer" means, why story-weaving matters, and how their own journeys through autism, ADHD, queerness, trauma, and late-in-life self-discovery shaped this show. If you're queer, neurodivergent, or both, and you're tired of masking, this conversation is for you.

Come for the big feelings and spicy language; stay for storytelling, queer thirst (and indifference), fiber-arts metaphors, policy wonkery, and unapologetic social commentary.

Find other listeners on social media using the hashtag #NQStoryWeavers.

Show links:

NEUROQUEER: AN INTRODUCTION • NEUROQUEER

The Streets.MN podcast

Find us:

Instagram @nqstoryweavers

NQStoryWeavers@Gmail.com

calymcmorrow.com

Cash App $NQSWPod