Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Black Girl Diagnosed
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Jaitesha Hanson | 25 août 2026 | 00:36:28 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Jaitesha Hanson, MS, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor, educator, and founder of The Alchemist Lab. Jaitesha shares her perspective as a late-identified Black neurodivergent woman and mental health professional, exploring why so many Black women are diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life. We discuss the impact of masking, code-switching, trauma, and cultural expectations, and how these experiences can make neurodivergence harder to recognize. We also take a closer look at the gaps in clinician education and why traditional assessments don't always capture the full picture of neurodivergence. Jaitesha explains how her lived experience and professional background inspired her to create neuroaffirming education and clinical tools that focus on recognizing patterns rather than simply looking for diagnoses. This is an important conversation about late diagnosis, representation, mental health care, and creating more affirming pathways for Black neurodivergent women to finally be seen and understood. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Samantha Dixon | 13 août 2026 | 00:26:03 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Samantha Dixon, a creative entrepreneur and late-diagnosed AuDHD woman who is building a life and business that works with her brain, not against it. Samantha shares her experience navigating the masking burden of late diagnosis as a Black woman and what it meant to finally understand herself through an AuDHD lens. We explore the complexities of experiencing both autism and ADHD, the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health in Black communities, and why greater recognition of neurodivergence in Black women matters. We also talk about building a business around your actual needs, creating content about your late-diagnosis journey, and the importance of representation for autistic and ADHD women. This is a powerful conversation about self-understanding, entrepreneurship, mental health, and creating a life that works with your brain, not against it. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Diane J. Wright | Autastic | 05 août 2026 | 00:44:58 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Diane J. Wright, founder of Autastic®, an autistic-led organization dedicated to supporting late-identified autistic adults, particularly Black, Indigenous, and other people of color. Diane shares her own late diagnosis journey and why she created Autastic to provide the community and support she wished had existed for her. Together, we explore how racism, ableism, misogynoir, ageism, and other intersecting systems shape the lives of autistic people, especially those from marginalized communities. We also discuss why conversations about autistic adulthood beyond age 40 deserve more attention, the growth of the Autastic community, and the importance of advocates working together to create meaningful change. Diane shares why coalition-building, authentic representation, and community care are essential to ensuring every autistic person feels seen, supported, and empowered. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about identity, advocacy, aging, and the power of building spaces where autistic people can thrive together. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Tamika Citchen Spruce | 23 juil. 2026 | 00:20:06 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by disability advocate and filmmaker Tameka Citchen Spruce for a powerful conversation about advocacy, storytelling, and authentic representation. Tameka shares her journey into disability advocacy and how filmmaking became a way to amplify disabled voices and challenge stereotypes. We also discuss her documentary, Autistic Out Loud, the inspiration behind the project, and why it was so important to center the lived experiences of autistic people through their own voices. Together, we explore the power of media to create change, the importance of authentic disability representation, and what true inclusion looks like in film, storytelling, and society. This episode is a reminder that when disabled people are given the opportunity to tell their own stories, they have the power to educate, inspire, and transform the way the world understands disability. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about advocacy, filmmaking, and the importance of ensuring disabled voices are heard. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Tiara Henderson | 08 juil. 2026 | 00:25:31 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Tiara, a Haitian American autistic mom raising two autistic children. Tiara shares her journey of learning to parent while also discovering herself as an autistic adult, and how her late diagnosis transformed the way she understands her needs, her family, and her identity. Together, we discuss parenting neurodivergent children, navigating autism within the Haitian community, and the importance of creating affirming spaces for Black and Caribbean autistic families. Tiara also opens up about finding joy again through fandoms and content creation, and how those communities became an unexpected source of connection, healing, and support. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about identity, parenting, culture, and embracing your authentic self. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on what it means to build community, find belonging, and thrive as a Black autistic woman. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Black Autistic Kayla | 10 juin 2026 | 00:31:20 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Kayla Smith, an autistic disability justice advocate, creator of #BlackAutisticPride, and passionate voice for Black autistic representation. Kayla shares her journey as a Black autistic queer woman and reflects on how advocacy, community, and self-discovery have shaped her life. We discuss the importance of self-acceptance, embracing every part of your identity, and what it means to take pride in being both Black and autistic in a world that often misunderstands both experiences. Kayla also opens up about her advocacy work, the inspiration behind #BlackAutisticPride, and why creating space for Black autistic voices remains so important. This conversation is a powerful reminder that authenticity, visibility, and community can be transformative. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about identity, pride, and the journey of becoming your truest self. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Dr Kay Coghill | 27 mai 2026 | 00:34:06 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Dr. KáLyn “Kay” Coghill, an AuDHD educator, activist, and advocate whose work focuses on digital misogynoir, online gender-based violence, and protecting Black communities in digital spaces. Kay shares their experiences navigating academic and professional spaces as a neurodivergent Black person, what it means to practice harm reduction online, and why creating safer internet spaces for Black women, girls, and non-binary people is so important. We also discuss their mid-30s diagnosis journey and how understanding their neurodivergence reshaped the way they see themselves and move through the world. This conversation is powerful, timely, and deeply necessary exploring the intersections of race, disability, technology, and safety in a world where Black neurodivergent voices are too often targeted and overlooked. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Autism Acceptance Month with Charlotte Bachelor | 29 avr. 2026 | 00:30:38 | |
In this special Autism Acceptance Month episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we welcome back returning guest Charlotte Bachelor for an honest and affirming conversation centered on Black autistic women and the importance of true acceptance beyond awareness. Charlotte shares her perspective on representation, self-acceptance, and why Black autistic voices must be centered in conversations about autism. Together, we discuss the misconceptions Black autistic women still face, the impact of late diagnosis, and what it means to create spaces where neurodivergent people feel seen, valued, and supported. This episode is a reminder that autism acceptance is about more than visibility it’s about listening, understanding, community, and making room for Black autistic people to exist fully and authentically. 🩷✨ | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Lyric Rivera | 25 févr. 2026 | 00:31:03 | |
This week and for the final episode of season 1 of Black Girl Diagnosed we’re joined by Lyric Rivera, creator of the NeuroDivergent Rebel blog and author of the best-selling book Workplace Neurodiversity Rising, praised by Forbes as an essential guide grounded in lived experience and professional insight. Since launching NeuroDivergent Rebel in 2016, Lyric has helped reshape how people understand neurodiversity through writing and video, centering autistic voices, creative expression, and autonomy. Their work challenges outdated narratives and pushes for a world where neurological differences are respected and accepted. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Pastiche Graham | 13 févr. 2026 | 00:21:33 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by children’s author and autism advocate Pastiche Graham, creator of Pia Pistachio Gets a Job! — a book inspired by her lived experience as an autistic woman. Pastiche shares how her appearance on Undercover Boss helped spark her publishing journey and why she felt called to create a main character autistic girls can see themselves in. We talk about the male-centered narrative around autism, the discrimination autistic people still face in workplaces, and the importance of public inclusion and representation. Pastiche opens up about reclaiming her voice, challenging stigma, and using storytelling as activism. This conversation is a powerful reminder that autistic girls and women deserve visibility, resources, and spaces where they belong. Tune in for an honest discussion about courage, advocacy, and rewriting the story around autism. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Diversity In Neurodiversity | 28 janv. 2026 | 00:31:56 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Janella (she/they), creator of Diversity in Neurodiversity and a Korean-Filipino American advocate using her voice to center intersectionality in the autism space. Janella shares what it means to navigate life as a BIPOC AuDHD adult while managing chronic fatigue, and why continuing to talk openly about race, ableism, and identity is essential for real change. We also talk about the importance of creating safe, honest spaces for marginalized voices, balancing advocacy with rest, and finding joy through hobbies like reading, knitting, and traveling. This conversation is a reminder that advocacy can coexist with softness, creativity, and care and that intersectionality must always be at the center of neurodivergent conversations. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Ky Kennedy | 14 janv. 2026 | 00:29:21 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Ky Kennedy a neurodivergent and physically disabled mother, lactation consultant, published author, nonprofit founder, public speaker, and disability activist. Ky shares how their advocacy is rooted in lived experience and a deep commitment to true access and inclusion. As a proud service dog and ambulatory wheelchair user, they speak candidly about challenging ableism and pushing conversations about accessibility beyond minimum compliance. We also explore how Ky’s creativity, poetry, and love for growth from gardens to communities shape their approach to advocacy and care. Through a neurodivergent lens, Ky invites us to reimagine what meaningful inclusion can look like when it’s grounded in dignity, imagination, and collective responsibility. This episode is honest, empowering, and deeply affirming for anyone navigating disability, parenting, and advocacy. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Dr Destiny Huff | 16 déc. 2025 | 00:20:47 | |
In this episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we’re joined by Destiny Huff, a late-diagnosed Autistic and ADHD mental health professional, licensed therapist, and non-attorney special education advocate. With over 15 years of experience working across early childhood, K–12 schools, foster care systems, and mental health services, Destiny brings a powerful blend of professional expertise and lived experience. She is also the mother of two neurodivergent learners with IEPs, giving her firsthand insight into how overwhelming and isolating the special education system can feel for families. Destiny shares why strong collaboration between schools and families is essential, what parents should know about advocating at the IEP table, and how Black families can feel more confident and informed when supporting their neurodivergent children. She also reflects on her own late diagnosis and how it shaped her parenting, advocacy, and commitment to neuroaffirming care. This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, and anyone navigating special education and disability advocacy. 🎧 | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Kat Lee | 03 déc. 2025 | 00:29:18 | |
In this week’s episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, we sit down with educator, writer, and creative Kathleen “Kat” Lee, founder of Mindful Bloom Studio and the whimsical mind behind @kathleezzzy. Kat opens up about navigating burnout, unmasking, and intentionally rebuilding her life with clarity, compassion, and softness. We talk about her journey as an autistic educator and her commitment to creating inclusive, accessible spaces for both neurodivergent and neurotypical learners. She shares how theatre, storytelling, and yoga influence her approach to teaching and community-building, and how her Instagram became a space for inner child healing, creativity, and joyful, fairy-inspired self-expression. We also dive into her long-term dreams—traveling the world, hosting retreats, writing children’s literature, and building communities rooted in imagination, belonging, and emotional wellness. This is a grounding, magical, deeply human conversation you don’t want to miss. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Phenomenally Autistic | 05 nov. 2025 | 00:16:22 | |
In this powerful solo episode of Black Girl Diagnosed, our host Ayanna Sanaa Davis opens up and shares her own diagnosis story in detail the challenges, realizations, and moments of clarity that shaped her journey as a Black autistic woman. Ayanna is a passionate advocate, educator, and storyteller dedicated to uplifting the voices of Black neurodivergent women and girls. Through her work, she continues to build community, raise awareness, and push for representation in spaces where our stories are often overlooked. This episode is raw, real, and deeply personal a look into what it means to seek understanding, fight for validation, and embrace identity in a world that rarely sees the full picture. 🎧 Tune in now wherever you get your podcasts. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Charlotte Bachelor | 07 oct. 2025 | 00:17:58 | |
Charlotte Bachelor is a late-diagnosed Autistic/ADHD writer and speaker from Detroit, MI. She began documenting her diagnostic journey as a student at Michigan State University, where she earned a B.A. in Professional and Public Writing and a minor in African American and African Studies. Her work focuses on uplifting the experiences of Black Disabled Women and Girls. Additionally, she completed the Disability EmpowHer Expressions Program and is a current long-term Trainee with the MI-LEND Program. Through her powerful storytelling, Charlotte shares her unique perspective to illuminate underrepresented stories and experiences. She has shared her story through the Autism in Black Conference, the Autism Stories Podcast, and the Spectrum Talk Podcast. You can find her written work on the Pure Michigan and Visit Detroit Websites. Charlotte believes that a good story can change hearts and minds and inspire action. Using a blend of quick wit and meaningful storytelling, she hopes to leave her audiences hungry to learn more. Outside of speaking and advocacy work, Charlotte is a member of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Incorporated. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring Metro Detroit, taking care of her neighborhood cats, and having a good cup of coffee. | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Cheryl Poe | 23 sept. 2025 | 00:26:53 | |
This week on Black Girl Diagnosed we are beyond honored to welcome Cheryl A. Poe — Founder & Executive Director of Advocating 4 Kids, Inc. and the visionary behind the “Advocating While Black™” movement. Cheryl is a nationally recognized special education advocate who has dedicated her life to empowering Black families and parents of children with disabilities. Through her work, she helps families navigate schools, understand their rights under IDEA, Section 504, and the ADA, and demand equity in education systems that too often marginalize our children. She is not only leading cases and challenging unjust practices—she’s building a movement that ensures Black families are seen, heard, and respected in every classroom. We cannot wait for you to hear this powerful conversation with a true changemaker and fearless advocate for our children. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Cheryl Poe! | |||
| Black Girl Diagnosed - Chante Douglas | 03 sept. 2025 | 00:29:34 | |
Black Girl Diagnosed is a bold and necessary podcast that amplifies the voices of Black women navigating the intersections of neurodivergence, disability, & mental health. Through raw conversations, personal storytelling, and expert insights, this show creates space for Black women from all walks of life in every industry to be fully seen—beyond stereotypes, stigma, and silence.Hosted by a Black Autistic Autism & Disability advocate, each episode delves into the real-life experiences of women living with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, invisible, physical disabilities and more—while unpacking the cultural, medical, and societal systems that often overlook or misdiagnose them.From the challenges of masking and misdiagnosis to the healing power of community and self-discovery, Black Girl Diagnosed is where truth-telling meets liberation. This is not just a podcast—it's a reclamation of identity, joy, and power!Whether you're neurodivergent, disabled, or an ally, or just starting to explore the conversation, this podcast offers solidarity, education, and a reminder: Black women deserve to be heard, healed, celebrated, Lifted & seen whole.Topics discussed will consist of but not limited to :Navigating life as a Black disabled/neurodivergent womanThe intersections of race, gender, disability, and neurodivergenceUnmasking, code-switching, and self-advocacy“Coming out” as neurodivergent or disabled in Black communitiesInternalized ableism and reclaiming identity | |||